Two Washington public-sector unions reach tentative contract deals

The largest union representing Washington state government workers — the Washington Federation of State Employees — has tentatively agreed to a new two-year contract after several weeks of tense negotiations and a statewide strike. The agreement covers the period from July 1, 2027, through June 30, 2029, and affects about 42,000 employees. Its terms have not yet been disclosed: Union members will review them first and then vote to approve or reject the contract.

The Washington State Employees Association reached a similar tentative agreement Thursday. The union represents roughly 2,500 workers across nine agencies, including the departments of Natural Resources, Revenue and Agriculture. The agreement does not provide for across-the-board pay raises, but it allows the parties to reopen wage negotiations during the contract term. Association President Amanda Hacker said the lack of a raise would mean further erosion of employees’ purchasing power, as many are already struggling to afford housing, groceries and other basic expenses.

The negotiations took place amid warnings from state officials about another budget shortfall. Gov. Bob Ferguson’s administration insisted on zero wage increases, citing a lack of funding, while contract talks with other unions continue. All agreements must be ratified by Oct. 1 so they can be included in the next two-year budget, which the governor will present in December. A separate agreement will preserve the existing health insurance cost-sharing structure: The state will cover 85% of monthly premiums, while employees will pay 15%. The cost to the state budget is estimated at $348.5 million.

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Based on: Two WA public-sector unions reach tentative deals on new contracts

UW Transplant Celebration Brings Hundreds of Patients Together

Twenty-eight-year-old Taylor Shander had lived with progressive liver disease for about a decade and knew she might eventually need a transplant. In December, while studying nursing at Everett Community College, her nausea worsened and she developed jaundice. Tests showed that the time for a transplant had arrived. Her older sister proved to be a suitable donor, and in March, UW Medicine specialists transplanted part of her liver into Shander. She documented her treatment in detail on CaringBridge.

On Sunday, Shander spoke at the University of Washington’s second annual transplant celebration, which brought together more than 1,000 organ-transplant recipients, their relatives and medical professionals. She said the community’s support had helped her cope with the challenges and reminded her that simply being present for someone can make an enormous difference. Despite having been discharged recently, Shander was still receiving treatment for a mild liver-rejection reaction and was scheduled to return to the medical center the following day.

UW Medicine accepts patients not only from Washington, but also from Alaska, Idaho, Montana and Wyoming — regions without transplant centers. The institution is part of the U.S. federal transplant system and works with the regional organ-donation organization LifeCenter Northwest. Organs are allocated under the uniform rules of the national UNOS/OPTN network, which considers compatibility, urgency, time spent waiting and the distance between donor and recipient.

Patients from remote areas typically first receive care at local centers, such as those in Anchorage or Fairbanks, and are then referred to Seattle for evaluation, surgery and follow-up care. Medical teams coordinate scheduled or charter flights, urgent organ transport and continued monitoring near patients’ homes. The specific process depends on the patient’s condition and the type of transplant. Residents of remote parts of Alaska sometimes first travel to Anchorage or Fairbanks and then fly more than four hours to Seattle.

In 2025, UW Medicine doctors performed 443 transplants, and they have already performed more than 300 this year. According to Ryutaro Hirose, the institute’s surgical director, mortality among patients waiting for transplants has declined because priority is given to those who are most seriously ill. However, the overall shortage of organs means that many others still face long waits.

Medical professionals also urged people to talk more often about organ donation and discuss recovery-related issues in advance. Living donors receive preoperative evaluations, medical monitoring and psychological support. Transplant coordinators and social workers help arrange housing, transportation, food, sick leave and communication with doctors in patients’ home communities. When appropriate, the National Living Donor Assistance Center reimburses travel, lodging, lost income and expenses for caring for children or other dependents. Eligibility for this support depends on household income, insurance coverage, the type of transplant and the requirements of the specific program.

Living donors can donate a kidney or part of a liver, while organs from deceased donors are often the result of a difficult decision by a family that has lost a loved one. Meeting participant Nicholas Armitage described donating part of his liver to his father; on the last day of his hospital stay, his partner brought him a positive pregnancy test. For Shander, her sister’s sacrifice — and for Armitage, his help to his father — served as reminders of the power of human support despite the physical, financial and emotional difficulties of recovery.

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Based on: Hundreds of UW organ transplant patients celebrate gift of life

Nine-Year-Old Girl Airlifted After Falling on Trail

A nine-year-old girl suffered a serious injury during a family hike on the trail to Red Top Lookout in Kittitas County, Washington. After falling in an area known as the agate beds, she sustained a deep wound to her right leg. In response to a call from her parents at 1:24 p.m., about 30 rescuers were dispatched. Firefighters and other emergency personnel had to travel approximately 2 miles along the remote trail to reach her. The girl was later airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. The agate beds are popular with rock enthusiasts searching for “thunder eggs” and other glittering minerals, but rescuers urged visitors to exercise caution and prepare for emergencies in advance: help may take time to arrive in remote areas.

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Based on: Girl, 9, airlifted after fall from WA trail - The Seattle Times

Jean Smart Wins Another Emmy for Her Role in “Hacks”

Jean Smart won the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for the fifth and final season of “Hacks.” This marks her victory for every season of the show — a rare achievement fitting the status of her character, legendary stand-up comedian Deborah Vance. The actress now has eight Primetime Emmy Awards for acting, tying Cloris Leachman and Julia Louis-Dreyfus. In the final round of voting, Smart prevailed over Quinta Brunson, Ayo Edebiri, Elle Fanning and Lisa Kudrow.

The HBO Max series concluded in May and followed Deborah’s complicated relationship with young writer Ava Daniels, played by Hannah Einbinder. In the final season, Deborah tried to rebuild her career after leaving her own late-night show and sought to perform a solo show at Madison Square Garden, but the performance ultimately took place in Central Park. Smart previously said the role had allowed her to combine traits from many of her favorite characters from her stage and screen career. She won her other Emmys for roles in “Frasier” and “Samantha Who?”

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Based on: Jean Smart wins Emmy for lead actress in a comedy for ‘Hacks’ final season, tying record

Seattle: Price Collapse, Business Demands Change, Darnold Injury

Seattle’s housing market is experiencing plunging prices and record inventory, business leaders are calling for tax cuts as Washington’s economy deteriorates, and uncertainty surrounding Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold’s injury is unsettling the team ahead of its game against Arizona.

Seattle’s housing market is cracking: prices fall as inventory hits 15-year records

The Greater Seattle housing market is undergoing a tectonic shift that can no longer be dismissed as a seasonal lull or a fluctuation in mortgage rates. According to fresh data published in an article by seattlered.com, the median home price in Seattle plunged by nearly $100,000 in a single month, while the number of active listings reached its highest level since 2011. This is not merely a correction, but a paradigm shift in which buyers have gained real leverage for the first time in years, while sellers are facing harsh reality alone.

The focus is on figures tracked weekly by broker Matt Goyer in his Urban Living newsletter. Just three months ago, his data painted a strange picture: Seattle prices were climbing toward record levels even as inventory reached a 14-year peak. That contradiction, which Goyer called “weird” at the time, was resolved in August in the most painful way possible for sellers. The median sale price in Seattle ended at $891,500, down 9% from a year earlier. Active listings jumped to 1,611 properties—40% more than last year. New listings rose 34%, while closed sales fell 17%. Months of supply reached 3.4, the highest level in 15 years.

“With inventory near 15-year highs, buyers have significantly more leverage than they have had in recent years,” Goyer wrote in his newsletter.

On the east side of Lake Washington, in the Eastside region, the situation looks even more dramatic. The median price fell to $1.5 million, down $225,000 in one month and 8% year over year. Active inventory stands at 1,461 homes, representing nearly five months of supply. “With supply approaching five months, conditions have firmly moved out of seller-dominated territory,” Goyer observes. His recommendation to sellers sounds like a sentence: “As fall approaches, sellers need to be brutally realistic about pricing; this is no longer 2022 or early 2025.”

However, reducing everything to mortgage rates approaching 7% would be an oversimplification. As the article’s author correctly notes, interest rates are a national factor, while the disappearance of the buyer pool in King County is a distinctly local story—and one created by local Democrats. On March 30, Gov. Bob Ferguson signed Senate Bill 6346, introducing a 9.9% tax on household income above $1 million. The measure affects pass-through businesses and takes effect January 1. It adds to taxpayers’ burden on top of the capital-gains tax and a record $9.4 billion in new taxes approved by Washington Democrats in 2025.

At the same time, technology giants began cutting jobs. Amazon eliminated more than 2,300 positions in Washington, Microsoft laid off hundreds of employees, and Google cut 52 jobs in Kirkland, Redmond and Seattle within a single week. These were precisely the households buying $1.5 million listings on the Eastside and million-dollar Craftsman homes in Seattle. When they face higher taxes, layoffs or both at once, their appetite for expensive housing disappears. For buyers, this is relatively good news; for sellers—who in some cases are forced to list their homes below what they paid for them—it is a catastrophe.

Inventory is rising not because builders are actively constructing new housing, but because people are trying to exit the market. According to the Northwest Multiple Listing Service, active listings in Washington rose 28.4% to 18,563 homes this spring. The clearest signal is coming from downtown Seattle: condominium prices per square foot have returned to 2016 levels, while comparable properties in Bellevue retain values roughly 40% higher. According to the author, the difference lies in the tax environment, crime levels, homelessness and the overall quality of governance on opposite sides of Lake Washington.

Still, the weekly data contain a glimmer of hope. Seattle recorded 157 pending sales—purchase agreements in the process of being completed—up 16.3% from the previous week. Goyer called the increase “notable.” Buyers do exist, but they now expect a discount. After four years of believing Seattle real estate could move in only one direction, they are finally getting one.

In short, this is a market where inventory is growing not because of an excess of new construction, but because capital and jobs are leaving; where state tax policy is directly hitting the wealthiest residents; and where mortgage rates are merely worsening the picture. For buyers, this is a once-in-a-decade window of opportunity. For sellers, it is a painful moment of reassessing reality, in which nostalgia for 2022 prices no longer works as a negotiating argument.

Seattle business leaders demand change as Washington’s economy loses ground

Business and civic leaders across the Puget Sound region are sounding the alarm: Washington state, until recently considered one of the most attractive places for business and innovation, is rapidly losing its economic advantage. Against the backdrop of Seattle’s growing budget deficit, public-safety problems and the first loss of jobs in decades in 2025, representatives of major corporations and former Gov. Chris Gregoire have launched a regional initiative intended to change course. Their central message is simple: without tax simplification, faster permitting and a restoration of the partnership between government and business, the region risks losing not only jobs but also its status as a global center of innovation.

The new organization, called Partnership for a Competitive Puget Sound, was created with support from the Challenge Seattle coalition and former Gov. Chris Gregoire and has already received more than $1 million in funding. Its central tool is the so-called “Mayor’s Playbook,” a set of recommendations for city governments on building constructive relationships with the private sector. A FOX 13 Seattle report emphasizes that the initiative’s launch coincided with troubling statistics: between 2017 and 2026, the state fell from 32nd to 47th in the cost of doing business and from 31st to 40th in overall business-climate attractiveness. The share of vacant office space in downtown Seattle has exceeded 35%, one of the highest rates in the country.

At the same time, the region retains seven unique structural advantages that, according to the report’s authors, could serve as the foundation for a turnaround. They include a highly educated workforce and strong talent pipelines, a dense innovation cluster, access to inexpensive and clean energy, robust international trade ties, substantial federal investment in research and development, extensive federal defense infrastructure, and a natural environment that attracts talent from across the country. To realize this potential, the initiative sets out seven goals: competing collectively to become one of the world’s most attractive regions, creating customer-focused services for businesses, establishing simple and predictable taxes, achieving meaningful regulatory goals, reducing the time and complexity of permitting, connecting talent pipelines with employers, and ensuring conditions for key industries to thrive.

The tax issue gives the debate particular urgency. Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson, speaking on the waterfront alongside business leaders, acknowledged a “very challenging situation” and a “very large budget deficit,” but did not say whether her budget proposal would include new taxes. Microsoft Vice Chair and President Brad Smith warned that nothing would drive jobs out of the region faster than extending Seattle’s JumpStart payroll tax to other cities. His statement reflects deep concern in the corporate sector over the city’s tax policy. JumpStart is a progressive tax on large companies introduced in Seattle several years ago to fund social programs; businesses fear that expanding it to neighboring jurisdictions would make the entire region less competitive.

The second issue inseparably linked to the economy is public safety. Regional leaders insist that prosperity is impossible without reducing crime and street disorder. Last week, Brad Smith and dozens of business executives signed a letter urging Mayor Wilson to present a public-safety action plan within 100 days. They cited measures adopted during the FIFA World Cup as an example of successful coordination. Wilson, for her part, defended her administration’s record, saying overall crime is at a 10-year low, but acknowledged residents’ impatience: “There is too much crime and disorder on our streets. People are frustrated, and they are right to feel frustrated. And I, like everyone else, want to see faster and more consistent progress.”

Puget Sound has therefore reached a crossroads: preserve the model that attracted talent and capital for decades, or move toward a heavier tax burden and more bureaucracy, risking an irreversible exodus of jobs. Key players—from Microsoft to city governments—have so far merely outlined their positions, but concrete decisions, particularly regarding Seattle’s budget and possible new taxes, will be decisive. If a compromise is not found, business leaders warn, the first decline in employment in decades in 2025 may prove not to be a one-time event, but the beginning of a long-term trend.

Uncertainty over Sam Darnold’s injury unsettles Seattle: what really happened to the Seahawks quarterback’s knee, hip and glute

The injury situation involving Seattle Seahawks starting quarterback Sam Darnold has turned in five days from a local news story into a genuine detective case involving conflicting insider reports, a changed diagnosis and growing concern within the team and among its fans. Immediately after the Week 1 victory over the New England Patriots, everyone was talking about a hip injury. Now the discussion centers on a glute injury, while estimates of the quarterback’s return range from one week to a month and a half. That uncertainty prompted Seattle Sports host Mike Salk to admit that he was feeling “a little nervous.”

According to Ian Rapoport, who discussed the matter on Sunday’s NFL Network program NFL Gameday, his understanding is that Darnold will miss at least the upcoming game and possibly a couple of games, after which it will become clear whether he can return for Week 3 against the Washington Commanders. Rapoport clarified that the injury is not to the hip, as previously reported, but specifically to the glute, and characterized it as a muscular injury that is not considered serious. Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, however, is offering a far more pessimistic scenario, saying Darnold could miss four to six weeks. That discrepancy prompted Salk’s concern. On Brock and Salk on Seattle Sports, he noted that no one can reach a consensus, which is itself troubling because injuries of this kind are “very difficult to diagnose.”

Former NFL quarterback and longtime FOX broadcaster Brock Huard, Salk’s co-host, agreed that the diagnosis is genuinely difficult but offered a concrete way to determine who is right. He said the issue involves a tendon, ligament or something around the transition from the hip to the glute area, and that two reliable indicators should emerge in the coming days. The first is whether the Seahawks begin bringing in other quarterbacks for workouts. The second is whether they place Darnold on injured reserve. Huard considers the second point crucial: if Florio is right and the injury will keep Darnold out for four to six weeks, the team will place him on IR this week to open a roster spot and sign someone from outside the organization. If that does not happen, the situation is likely closer to the week-to-week estimate offered by other sources.

For now, all signs point to backup quarterback Drew Lock starting in Week 2 against the Arizona Cardinals. The matchup carries additional significance because Arizona is an NFC West rival that, like the Seahawks, opened the season with a victory. For Seattle, this means not only solving a personnel problem at the most important position, but also testing the depth of its roster at a time when any slip within the division could prove costly in the playoff race.

The key insight is that two fundamentally different approaches to the injury have collided: Rapoport’s cautiously optimistic assessment and Florio’s alarming long-term projection. For the Seahawks, this is not merely a medical issue, but a question of roster management and strategy for the coming month. If Darnold is indeed out for four to six weeks, the team will have to either quickly seek an experienced veteran on the market or entrust Drew Lock with the job for an extended period, changing the entire trajectory of the season. If the injury proves minor, Seattle will have escaped with a scare and can keep its plans intact. As Huard accurately noted, the telling marker will be the injured-reserve decision—it will show in the coming days how seriously the club’s leadership views the situation.

It is worth clarifying that injured reserve in the NFL is a list for injured players that allows a team to free a spot on its 53-man active roster, but the player must miss at least four games, unless special short-term rules apply. Placing Darnold on IR would therefore automatically mean the team expects him to be unavailable for several weeks, not several days. The glute muscles now being discussed are a group of large muscles responsible for hip movement and pelvic stability. An injury to them can be particularly problematic for a quarterback because they are engaged while running, changing direction and throwing on the move—all elements that are critical to Darnold.

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Cigarette Butt Leads Investigators to Tacoma Murder Suspect

Nearly five years into the investigation of the killing of 30-year-old Kalyn P. Smith, whose body was found in a roadside ditch in Tacoma in fall 2021, investigators made a breakthrough thanks to a cigarette butt tossed from a pickup truck window. According to investigators, DNA from the filter linked 59-year-old Edwin Lee Newlander not only to Smith’s death but also to biological evidence in two rape investigations. Newlander has been charged with second-degree murder. He is being held on $1 million bail and has not yet entered a plea.

On the morning of Oct. 12, 2021, passersby spotted a woman’s body in a ditch near the 3100 block of East M Street, not far from McKinley Park and the Interstate 5 interchange. One witness saw a man near the body and a dark SUV that soon drove away, but the predawn darkness prevented a reliable description of the driver. The Pierce County medical examiner determined that Smith died of asphyxia caused by neck compression. Her body showed abrasions and bruises.

The most important piece of evidence had been within investigators’ reach from the beginning: samples taken from beneath Smith’s fingernails contained a mixed male DNA profile. The profile was entered into CODIS, the federal database that allows laboratories to compare genetic data nationwide, but no matches were found at the time. The case remained among those in which the circumstances of death were known but the suspected killer’s identity was not.

A new lead emerged through another investigation. In December 2025, a woman identified in court documents as J.H. told police that she had been raped twice over a two-day period and underwent a medical examination. In spring 2026, testing showed that her samples were linked to the DNA found beneath Smith’s fingernails, as well as to evidence from a rape investigation first reported on Oct. 21, 2019.

In a follow-up interview with detectives, J.H. described one of the attackers as a man named Ed: white, about 50 years old, short and heavily built, with a receding hairline and long hair on the sides. Police say the description pointed to Newlander. On June 9, 2026, J.H. was found dead at a CFN gas station in Tacoma; her cause of death was an overdose. According to court documents, surveillance cameras captured his distinctive pickup truck in the parking lot within an hour of that time.

On June 16, police stopped Newlander, who reportedly was driving with a suspended license. During the stop, he threw a cigarette out the window. Officers retrieved the butt, packaged it and sent it to the Washington State Patrol crime laboratory. In August, the laboratory reported that DNA from the filter was linked to profiles from the Smith case and two alleged rape cases.

During an interview on Sept. 2, Newlander acknowledged that he knew Smith and had given her a ride from the intersection of Puyallup Avenue and Portland Avenue. According to the account he gave investigators, the woman suddenly attacked him, scratched his face and arms, and bit his thumb, while he merely held her arms before driving away. Details of his account, including his mention of the clothing Smith was wearing, became part of the material presented to the court, but the prosecution’s case rests primarily on the combination of genetic matches and investigative circumstances.

Newlander was arrested on Sept. 3, and at his initial hearing in Pierce County Superior Court, bail was set at $1 million. Second-degree murder carries a sentence of up to life in prison. No separate charges have yet been filed in the alleged rape cases; the investigation continues. For the Smith case, which had spent years as an unnamed file containing a DNA profile, the cigarette butt does not conclude the story, but it has given prosecutors a person whose account of events will have to be tested in open court.

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Based on: DNA from cigarette leads to arrest in unsolved Tacoma murder

Seattle’s Live Aloha Festival Supports the Hawaiian Community

Despite the nearly 4,300-kilometer distance between Washington state and Hawaii, recent hurricanes Lala and Lowell severely affected Native Hawaiians living on the mainland. Homes were destroyed, and floods and landslides occurred on the islands of Hawaii, Kauai and Niihau. Many residents are still unable to return to normal life. The tragedy cast a shadow over Seattle’s annual Live Aloha Hawaiian cultural festival, which nevertheless preserved its celebratory atmosphere of music, dance and community unity.

The festival has been held at Seattle Center since 2009, except for a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic. Seattle Center is a major cultural and civic complex in the heart of the city, built on the site of the 1962 World’s Fair. It includes concert venues, museums, parks and the famous Space Needle. Thanks to its convenient location, spacious grounds and multifunctional halls, the complex regularly hosts ethnic festivals, concerts, fairs and other events that reflect Seattle’s cultural diversity.

This year, Live Aloha visitors watched music and dance performances, took part in a musubi-style Spam-eating contest, and attended workshops on making leis, weaving with hala leaves and traditional Hawaiian featherwork. Organizers reminded attendees that “aloha” means not only a greeting, but also love, compassion and respect. According to organizing committee member Kamalei Brandon, land and family are inseparable for Native Hawaiians, so disasters on their home islands are experienced as a personal tragedy.

Washington state is home to nearly 5% of all Native Hawaiians in the United States—the third-largest community after Hawaii and California. Many live in King and Pierce counties. Hawaiian diaspora organizations in the region typically help disaster victims in several ways at once: collecting donations, sending funds to vetted charitable organizations on the islands, assembling shipments of essential goods and sharing information about available assistance. They also support evacuees and relatives of victims in the Seattle area, helping with housing, transportation, documents and contact with social services.

The festival also took place against the backdrop of a July shooting at Seattle Center that left three people dead and four others injured. Organizers increased security measures and police presence, emphasizing that visitor safety remains the top priority.

Event participants looked for additional ways to help the affected islands. The organization Hawaiian Diaspora used the festival to inform the public about the hurricanes’ consequences, since many visitors may not have known the extent of the destruction. For Dana Lastimado of Seattle Poi Company, the issue is especially personal: the farmer who supplies the company with taro lives on Kauai, and her grandmother’s home on the island was destroyed.

Her family business, which offered poi, taro dishes, mochi and other treats, got its start at Live Aloha. According to Lastimado, the festival remains an important local gathering where the spirit of aloha is felt especially strongly.

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Based on: Seattle’s Live Aloha Festival unites WA islanders in challenging times

WinCo Tries to Come to Seattle Again — via Vacant Sam’s Club on Aurora

The former Sam’s Club building on Aurora Avenue North, vacant since 2018, has once again become the site of a major—but still unfinished—plan: WinCo Foods has filed new permit applications and intends to open its first Seattle store there within a year. The project promises to bring new life to the nearly 145,000-square-foot retail building and give the neighborhood a low-cost grocery option. But its earlier environmental review was overturned because the city compared the proposed store not with the currently vacant property, but with its long-closed predecessor.

On Seattle’s northern edge, the empty shell of the former Sam’s Club has long looked like a strange pause in the urban fabric: a huge parking lot, broad Aurora Avenue North, neighboring businesses and residential neighborhoods to the east. Sam’s Club closed there in 2018, and since then the roughly 145,000-square-foot building has never found a permanent new tenant. Along the Aurora corridor, where everyday grocery trips often require a car, the vacancy has been especially conspicuous.

WinCo is a Boise-based discount chain owned by its employees through an employee stock ownership program. It already has stores across Washington, but none in Seattle itself. The company has built its reputation on low prices, large packages and bulk goods; shoppers do not need a membership. That format helps explain the interest in the project: in a city where the cost of groceries has long been a distinct household-budget concern, the arrival of another budget supermarket is seen as more than just another commercial lease.

WinCo’s original plan was relatively modest by large-scale retail standards. The company intended to demolish about 17,000 square feet of the existing structure, reduce the building’s footprint, create a new south-facing façade and entrance, and redo the sidewalks, parking surface and landscaping. The project called for excavation, upgrades to underground stormwater infrastructure and 11 additional parking spaces, bringing the total to 558. Most of the nearly 512,000-square-foot site was otherwise expected to remain largely unchanged.

In October 2025, the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections issued a determination of nonsignificance. The city acknowledged that construction and store operations would add vehicle trips, noise, emissions and runoff from paved surfaces, but concluded that existing regulations—including stormwater-management and traffic requirements—were sufficient to mitigate those effects. The permit also included separate measures to follow if archaeological materials were discovered during excavation.

Two weeks later, the Lake Washington Working Families group appealed the decision. During hearings, its representatives raised concerns about traffic, stormwater pollution and the chemical compound 6PPD-quinone, which forms from additives in vehicle tires and can enter waterways through roadway runoff. Seattle hearing examiner Ryan Vancil did not conclude that the project’s opponents had proved that significant environmental harm was inevitable. But he found a more fundamental problem with the city’s methodology: the city had used the former Sam’s Club’s operations as its baseline, even though the property had been vacant for years.

In a decision dated April 9, Vancil overturned the city’s determination. In his assessment, the environmental effects should have been compared with the site’s actual condition at the time of review—with a vacant building and an inactive retail space—not with what had once been permitted and operating there. This was not a final ban on WinCo, nor did it mean the store would necessarily cause significant environmental damage. The decision simply required the city to conduct the review again using the correct baseline.

WinCo and its project partner, JSA Civil, then attempted to challenge the decision in King County Superior Court. At the same time, the company returned to the permitting process: new applications show that it has not abandoned the Aurora address. A company representative said WinCo expects to move forward at full speed and open the store within a year, although that timeline depends on how quickly the new approvals are completed.

What matters most in this story, perhaps, is not the legal dispute but the gap between the site’s past and its present. Formally, a store in the same category as the former Sam’s Club could once again appear on Aurora. But more than seven years of vacancy have changed both the neighborhood and the significance of the future tenant. WinCo must now show the city that its return to this asphalt island can be reconciled with requirements concerning water, traffic and surrounding neighborhoods. If it succeeds, the abandoned big-box store may finally stop being a monument to the previous retailer’s sudden departure.

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Based on: WinCo resumes planning for first Seattle store after legal challenge

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Seattle union and schools reach agreement on new contract

A new three-year contract for Seattle Public Schools employees is nearly approved. The tentative agreement was reached just hours before the start of the school year, as about 50,000 students returned to classrooms following tense negotiations. The document must be approved by members of the Seattle Education Association, which represents roughly 6,000 teachers, instructional assistants, secretaries, counselors and other workers, and then by the school board.

The agreement provides for salary increases of about 10% over three years. Certificated employees, including teachers, school counselors, psychologists and special education specialists, will receive a combined increase of approximately 9.8%, while classified staff will receive about 10.55%. The first category generally includes employees who need a state professional license, while the second includes teacher assistants and paraeducators, secretaries, cafeteria workers, custodians, bus drivers and other support staff. This is a legal and personnel classification, not a measure of the importance of the jobs.

In the first year, all employees will receive a 2.6% raise, matching the state-mandated cost-of-living adjustment. In subsequent years, salary increases will vary slightly by employee category. Classified staff will also receive additional raises based on seniority and special tax benefits.

One of the union’s main achievements was securing staffing guarantees. Elementary schools with more than 350 students must have a full-time social worker or counselor. In addition, the district plans to increase the number of nurses and psychologists serving multiple schools. The contract limits mandatory staff meetings to three one-hour meetings per month and protects teachers’ preparation and grading time on early-release days.

However, the agreement does not reduce class sizes — a demand that was especially important to some teachers. The union plans to seek additional state funding. Washington’s public schools receive most of their funding from the state budget, as well as from local property taxes and federal sources. Following the state Supreme Court’s ruling in the McCleary case, the government is required to provide “full and sufficient” funding for education, including salaries and basic staffing needs. The state determines funding formulas, student-teacher ratios and the amount of required funding. As a result, the district can redistribute its own resources, but it can generally hire more teachers and reduce class sizes on a sustained basis only if state funding increases under those formulas.

The agreement preserves additional pay for employees who replace absent colleagues or take additional students into their classrooms. It also strengthens protections for immigrant and LGBTQ+ employees, regulates the placement of surveillance cameras and governs the use of artificial intelligence.

Special education remained a separate point of contention. Students with special educational needs currently receive services under an individualized education program developed by the school, specialists and parents. Depending on their needs, students may learn in a mainstream classroom, a small separate group or a specialized program. The district currently has four program tracks, but administrators wanted to reduce that number to two so that more schools could offer the full range of services.

Such a consolidation could formally simplify the system while also creating broader student categories. As a result, some children might have more difficulty accessing the right program, receiving the necessary level of support or maintaining their familiar learning environment. Much will depend on placement criteria, staffing and the content of the new programs.

Instead of implementing an immediate overhaul, the parties agreed to an 18-month joint study involving the union and the local community. Final recommendations are expected by January 2028, after which a new model will be piloted in about one-third of the district’s 106 schools.

District leaders believe the pilot will make it possible to match staffing resources to students’ individual needs rather than relying solely on predetermined standards. Some employees worry that the district will retain too much influence and could impose a new system on schools without sufficient teacher involvement. However, the contract provides for equal participation by the union and administration in decision-making, as well as the option for employees to transfer out of schools participating in the experiment. Overall, both sides described the agreement as a significant compromise that will help retain workers while gradually revisiting the most difficult issues.

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Based on: What Seattle teachers won — and compromised on — in their new contract

King County volunteers turn search-and-rescue work into a calling

At the foot of Mount Teneriffe, volunteers from the King County Search and Rescue Association held a training exercise. A 14-year-old participant portrayed an injured hiker: rescuers carried her in a folding litter to the command post, where medics treated injuries to her wrist and ankle. At the same time, teams practiced lowering and raising people on a 70-meter cliff, working with litters, using radios and coordinating groups.

The association brings together seven specialized units and 556 active volunteers, ranging from teenagers to retirees. They search for missing people, rescue injured hikers, recover human remains, assist police in examining crime scenes, and transport people and equipment during natural disasters. King County, the busiest county in Washington state by the number of such operations, saw volunteers participate in 164 callouts last year.

During operations, volunteers typically carry out the main practical work in the field: navigating with maps, conducting ground and water searches, providing first aid and using specialized equipment. Full-time sheriff’s office employees coordinate the response and are responsible for official command, safety, communication with other agencies and legally significant decisions. In this way, the association works in partnership with the sheriff rather than replacing the sheriff’s office.

The units perform different tasks: ground teams work in forests, mountain rescuers operate on challenging terrain, canine teams track people and search for remains, and specialists using all-terrain vehicles, snowmobiles, motorcycles and drones provide access to remote areas. Separate teams provide medical assistance in the mountains and manage the incident command post. The volunteers’ assistance is free to the public, although members often pay for their own gear and specialized equipment.

The organization, which has existed for more than 60 years, has an annual budget of about $650,000. Since 2020, approximately $200,000 per year has come from a special voter-approved local parks levy in King County. These restricted funds cannot be freely redirected to other budget categories; they are used, among other things, to purchase equipment, provide training, maintain vehicles and cover the operating costs of search-and-rescue work. The rest of the funding comes from grants and donations.

Association leader Carrie Lee Gagnon is working to secure stable funding and establish a permanent base. Sheriff’s representatives emphasize that volunteers are ready to respond immediately at any time. Modern phones and GPS have sped up searches, although route information available online sometimes encourages unprepared people to venture into dangerous places.

The volunteers are brought together not only by a sense of duty, but also by camaraderie, physical challenges and the desire to bring people home safely. For many, the work becomes a second job—and a habit that is difficult to give up.

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Based on: For King County search-and-rescue volunteers, saving lives is an addiction

Seattle Incidents: Trail Injury and Transit Violence

Three incidents involving injuries occurred in and around Seattle: a girl was hurt on a trail, a man was stabbed on a train, and a cyclist collided with a light-rail vehicle.

Girl Seriously Injured on Popular Washington Trail as Rescuers Took Two Hours to Reach Her

The incident occurred Saturday afternoon on the Red Top Lookout Trail in Kittitas County, about a two-hour drive east of Seattle. A 9-year-old girl who was hiking with her family fell from an agate deposit—a rocky outcrop popular with rock collectors—and suffered a deep wound to her right leg. Erin Meador, acting lieutenant with Kittitas County Fire District No. 7, said the girl’s parents called at 1:24 p.m. The incident was also reported by The Seattle Times.

About 30 rescuers from several agencies were dispatched to the scene. According to County Fire Chief Aaron Lowe, crews had to hike approximately two miles to reach the patient. Later that afternoon, the girl was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, the region’s largest trauma center.

The agate deposits near Red Top are well known among “rockhounds,” who search the area for thunder eggs and other glittering minerals. The trail leads to an old fire lookout and is considered relatively accessible for family outings, but the terrain remains rocky and dangerous in places. The combination of an apparently easy route and the area’s remote location makes incidents like this especially serious: even when rescuers are called quickly, it takes time to reach an injured person.

Lowe used the opportunity to remind visitors of basic wilderness-safety rules. He said people traveling in remote areas should be prepared for emergencies because help can be significantly delayed in such places. In practical terms, that means carrying extra water, a first-aid kit, warm clothing and communication equipment, as well as making an honest assessment of one’s abilities and the difficulty of the route—especially when children are part of the group.

This case is a typical example of how quickly an uneventful family outing can turn into a rescue operation involving dozens of people and a helicopter. It also serves as a reminder that the popularity of natural attractions such as agate fields is growing, along with the demands placed on emergency services that must work in mountainous and forested terrain. The girl’s condition was not reported as of publication; it was known only that her injury was serious.

Stabbing on Seattle Light Rail: Suspect at Large

Another incident in downtown Seattle has raised fresh questions about public-transit safety. A man was stabbed aboard a northbound Link light-rail train Sunday afternoon. The victim was taken to a hospital, while the attacker fled and had not been arrested when police released their initial reports. The case adds to concerns about how well passengers are protected in a system used by thousands of people every day.

According to information published by KOMO News, the call came in at 4:23 p.m. local time. The Seattle Fire Department responded to a report of a stabbing near the 1300 block of Third Avenue. Medics treated a man believed to be about 30 years old. His condition was described as stable, and he was transported to Harborview Medical Center. Seattle police confirmed that the incident occurred on the train but noted an important jurisdictional detail: the area falls under the jurisdiction of the King County Sheriff’s Office, so KCSO personnel responded. This division of responsibility is more than a formality. It can affect the speed and coordination of the response—especially when a suspect remains at large.

The stabbing occurred on a weekend, when downtown ridership is often higher than during work hours because of events, sightseeing and restaurant visits. Link light rail is not merely a transit service; it is a key artery connecting Seattle neighborhoods with the airport and surrounding communities. When a weapons-related crime occurs within such a system, it inevitably alarms passengers—particularly when the suspect is not immediately caught. For people who ride the trains every day, news that someone carrying a knife may be nearby and still free can feel like a direct warning of their vulnerability.

Several points may not be obvious from the brief report. Link light rail is a light-metro system operated by Sound Transit, but safety at stations and on trains may involve different agencies depending on the location. In downtown Seattle, the city police department and the King County Sheriff’s Office may have overlapping areas of responsibility, creating a complex response structure. When a report says an incident occurred within KCSO jurisdiction, it means that agency will likely lead the investigation rather than Seattle police, although city services may have provided the initial response. It is also important to understand that “stable condition” is a medical term that does not guarantee the absence of serious consequences; it indicates that the patient’s condition was not considered immediately life-threatening at the time of hospitalization.

It remains unknown what prompted the attack—whether it stemmed from a confrontation between passengers or was a random act of violence. Police did not release a description of the suspect, say whether anyone else was threatened with a weapon, or disclose how many people were in the train car at the time. That uncertainty is itself a source of stress for the community. In recent years, Seattle Link light rail has repeatedly become the focus of debates about safety, as passengers and transit employees have reported growing numbers of incidents involving drugs, aggression and mental-health crises. Each such attack fuels calls for increased patrols, more cameras and faster responses to alerts.

The central problem is not only the individual crime but also the systemic gap between passengers’ expectations and the actual capabilities of security services. When an attack takes place on a moving train, victims and witnesses have little time to summon help before the train reaches a station. If a perpetrator exits at one of the downtown stops, the person can quickly disappear into the crowd. That is why an immediate arrest is often impossible, leaving the suspect at large—as happened in this case.

The incident is a reminder that public-transit safety depends not only on cameras and fare gates but also on coordination between agencies, the speed of information-sharing and passengers’ willingness to report suspicious behavior. While police continue searching, Link light-rail riders must rely on vigilance and hope their next trip does not become the subject of another incident report.

Cyclist Injured in Collision with Light-Rail Train in Seattle

A cyclist was injured in a traffic incident in Seattle on Sunday afternoon. The collision occurred at the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Way and South Dawson Street, where a cyclist struck a light-rail train, known locally as Link light rail. According to a KIRO 7 News report, the injuries were not life-threatening, and train service resumed in less than an hour.

According to the Seattle Police Department, the victim received medical treatment. The train involved continued along its route within an hour of the incident, suggesting that neither the infrastructure nor the vehicle sustained significant damage. For readers unfamiliar with the local system, Seattle’s Link light rail operates partly on street-level tracks, creating potential intersections with other road users, including cyclists and pedestrians. The intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Way and South Dawson Street is one such location, where tracks run directly along a city street and require heightened attention from everyone traveling through the area.

The incident once again raises questions about safety in mixed-traffic areas where light-rail tracks share space with cyclists and pedestrians. Although officials have not released details about how the collision occurred, the fact that the train resumed service so quickly suggests that the incident was relatively localized. For a city where light rail is expanding and becoming increasingly popular, incidents like this may signal a need for additional precautions, whether through improved road markings, warning signals or educational campaigns for cyclists and drivers. For now, the most important point is that the injured person received the necessary care and was not in life-threatening condition.

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WSU Student Discovers Apple Variety Thought to Be Extinct

Washington State University graduate student Taettin Brodzinski, who does not particularly like apples herself, has helped bring back the Walbridge variety, long thought to be extinct. In the fall, while studying the genetics of agricultural crops, she needed to find an apple leaf for DNA analysis. At Lawson Gardens near campus, Brodzinski discovered a tree bearing green fruit. Genetic testing found no match with known varieties, so she and Professor Cameron Peace continued their research. About a month later, they learned that the tree was a Walbridge apple—the “main lost variety” that specialists across the country had been searching for.

Historical descriptions characterize Walbridge as a bright red, striped apple, but that color appears only in direct sunlight. Fruit hidden beneath the leaves remains green, so the apples Brodzinski found reminded her of Golden Delicious or Granny Smith. Walbridge was once popular in Pacific Northwest orchards because of its ability to store well: it ripens in November, gradually becomes sweeter over the winter, bruises very little and retains its crisp texture when cooked. Its flavor combines the tartness of Granny Smith with the milder notes of Cosmic Crisp.

Brodzinski believes the variety disappeared from commercial orchards because it grew too quickly and vigorously. Older farmers found it difficult to maintain such trees and harvest their fruit without modern equipment. After the news was published, the WSU My Fruit Tree laboratory began receiving DNA samples from across the country, and Walbridge trees were also found in Colorado, Utah and New Mexico. The researcher is now grafting and cloning the apple tree she found, as well as crossbreeding it with other heirloom varieties. Her goal is to develop a commercially viable plant with controlled growth and consistent fruit size, flavor and quality.

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Based on: WSU student finds apple variety thought to be extinct

Trump directs millions toward Washington state congressional race

The political action committee No Going Back PAC, associated with President Donald Trump, has reserved $1.7 million worth of advertising time in Washington’s 3rd Congressional District. In the election, Republican John Braun, the state Senate Republican leader and a Trump-endorsed candidate, is challenging two-term Democratic Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez. The advertising campaign is part of a nationwide, $68 million effort targeting 14 competitive House districts and six Senate races.

The district is considered one of the key contests for control of the House next year, so spending by outside groups will likely rise into the tens of millions of dollars. No Going Back is linked to Trump’s leading super PAC, MAGA Inc., which has roughly $400 million, but it has not yet disclosed its donors to the Federal Election Commission. Elon Musk may reportedly finance an additional campaign against Democrats, with plans to spend at least $100 million supporting Republicans.

The surge of outside support could complicate Braun’s efforts to portray himself as an independent politician. Both candidates are trying to focus on local issues, including trade jobs and salmon protection, while Gluesenkamp Perez has sought to distance herself from the national Democratic Party leadership. She first won the district in 2022, defeating MAGA-aligned candidate Joe Kent, and repeated her victory two years later. She now holds a significant fundraising advantage, with more than $6 million compared with Braun’s approximately $2 million. Democratic supporters have spent about $110,000 on advertising, while super PACs can raise and spend unlimited sums.

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Based on: Trump’s PAC starts spending in key WA congressional race

Rain in Seattle to Give Way to Sun and Warmth

After a cloudy and rainy week in the Seattle area, the weather will gradually begin to improve. According to National Weather Service meteorologist Logan Howard, the region is experiencing a transition between summer and fall, so sunny and rainy days are still alternating. By Sunday morning, the storm had brought about 6 millimeters of rain to Seattle, while the Olympic Peninsula and southern Cascades received up to 19–25 millimeters. The rain was moderate and is not expected to cause flooding; instead, it will likely benefit the environment. Cool weather will continue Monday and Tuesday, but temperatures will rise to about 24–29°C starting Wednesday, with Wednesday and Thursday likely to be sunny.

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Based on: Seattle weather: Rain to give way to sunshine, warmer days

Digest: Seattle’s economy and the Mariners’ hopes

Seattle depends on ten corporations, but city officials are creating yet another task force; the Mariners crushed the Athletics 19–1 thanks to Michael Arroyo’s first home run, but their playoff hopes are fading.

Seattle in a trap: City launches another task force while economy relies on ten corporations

A new independent economic audit of Seattle’s finances, prepared by consulting firm Formation at the request of the city’s economic development department, has exposed an uncomfortable truth: the city budget critically depends on a handful of major technology employers. The response from city officials was predictable—Mayor Katie Wilson signed an executive order creating the “Seattle Sustainable Economy Task Force.” That move immediately drew sarcasm from KIRO Newsradio interim host Mike Lewis, who compared his hometown on The John Curley Show to a spaceport from which an endless succession of committees and initiatives is constantly launching.

The heart of the problem, as Lewis notes in his KIRO Newsradio broadcast, is that Seattle depends on roughly ten companies that generate most of the revenue from the JumpStart payroll tax. The tax applies to companies with payrolls of more than approximately $9 million and is projected to bring in about $500 million this year. Unlike San Francisco, Boston and Minneapolis, where tax revenue is distributed more evenly among midsize businesses, Seattle is “disproportionately dependent on a company that once employed 50,000 people downtown,” the host says, alluding to Amazon. A 5,000-employee reduction at such a corporation, he argues, translates into millions of dollars in lost tax revenue.

Lewis also singled out City Councilmember Dan Strauss, who supported directing JumpStart revenue into the general fund rather than keeping it earmarked for affordable housing. “We’re calling you out specifically,” the host said, emphasizing that decisions like these increase the budget’s vulnerability. The concept of an “earmarked fund” is important here: it means that a particular tax is collected for a specific spending category and cannot freely be shifted to other needs. Moving JumpStart revenue into the general pot means money promised for housing programs can now be used to plug holes anywhere in the budget—making the city even more dependent on volatile revenue from big business.

However, the picture is not entirely straightforward, and Lewis and co-host Spike O’Neil highlighted a paradox that politicians prefer not to discuss. A slowing economy, falling revenue and threats to public-safety funding are the standard warnings. But there is another side: when “first month free” banners begin appearing on rental properties—something Seattle has not seen in a long time—that signals tenants have more options. “You know what makes rent go down? When you have choices. Your landlord knows that you have options now,” Lewis said. No mayor can publicly celebrate an economic downturn, but for middle-income residents it means more affordable housing.

Another paradox concerns small businesses, which the mayor says she wants to promote. Spike O’Neil pointed to vacant retail and office space as an opportunity. Lewis was skeptical: in his view, Seattle’s measures to preserve small businesses are “poorly thought out.” Property costs are so high that only chain operators and well-capitalized restaurants can afford ground-floor spaces. “You’re not replacing them with the same kinds of small businesses. You’re replacing them with Subway, maybe Domino’s Pizza, some trendy restaurant or another Pilates studio,” he said. Even a business-tax reduction implemented by former Mayor Bruce Harrell saved his own company about $300 a year—“I’ll take the $300, that’s great, but it’s not a game changer.”

The conversation concluded by turning to public safety: more than 30 major Seattle employers sent an open letter to Mayor Wilson and the City Council demanding a 100-day action plan. The letter calls for activating surveillance cameras, increasing foot and bicycle patrols, speeding up response times to 911 calls and holding people accountable for public drug use. “Part of what makes Seattle financially and economically viable is creating a city where not only businesses can thrive, but citizens can live, thrive and feel safe,” Spike O’Neil emphasized. Lewis added that the intersection of a fragile economy and a deteriorating public-safety infrastructure is the city government’s greatest challenge—and ideally, it should be addressed without another task force. After all, as he put it, “Seattle is a city of task forces,” and launching another initiative with virtually no public demand only confirms that reputation.

Mariners deliver historic rout of Athletics: Michael Arroyo’s first home run and a record 19 runs

On a night when clouds gathered over Seattle, the Mariners reminded everyone that baseball is unpredictable and that sometimes one game can change the way an entire season is perceived. In West Sacramento, at Sutter Health Park—packed by local standards—Seattle routed the Athletics 19–1. It was the largest victory in franchise history, and the evening became a showcase for youth, patience and one last desperate attempt to preserve the team’s mathematical playoff chances. As The Seattle Times writes, the Mariners entered the game ranked last in MLB in scoring average, at just 3.96 runs per game. But everything changed Saturday: five home runs, 23 hits and 19 runs—numbers that demand a reassessment of this team.

The star of the evening was 21-year-old Michael Arroyo, playing just his second major-league game. In the fourth inning, he hit a double—his first MLB hit—and in the seventh he launched a monumental 418-foot shot, sending the ball onto the roof of a club building beyond left field. According to analysts, the home run would have been out in any of the league’s 30 parks. “It’s not 100 percent. It’s like 500,” Arroyo tried to explain through translator Freddy Llanos. Later, in the clubhouse, his teammates gave him the traditional “beer shower,” generously adding every sauce and seasoning they could find in the kitchen. “I felt a kind of identity,” the rookie admitted. “As soon as that first hit happened, I told myself, ‘Okay, now I’m a major-league player.’”

The evening stood in contrast to Friday’s loss, when former Mariners player Donovan Walton hit a walk-off home run in the 10th inning, burying Seattle’s hopes of a comeback. Many saw that moment as the death knell for the team’s playoff ambitions. Mathematically, however, the Mariners (70–79) were still alive. What is more, Houston (75–74) lost to Tampa Bay that same night, cutting Seattle’s deficit in the American League West to five games. “We’re continuing to push,” manager Dan Wilson said before the game. “The goal is to cut into that deficit as much as possible before we get home and face Houston. Yesterday was tough, no question. But we had to respond today.”

The response was crushing. Dominic Canzone and Randy Arozarena hit home runs in the second inning, making it 5–0. Cole Young, Arroyo and J.P. Crawford then added more. Weston Wilson went five-for-six, while Julio Rodríguez, Arroyo, Young and Josh Naylor each recorded three hits. “Incredible effort offensively,” Dan Wilson said admiringly. “The guys just came out and started hitting.” The result was partly helped by an injury to Athletics rookie Gage Jump, who left after two innings with shoulder discomfort, as well as Sutter Health Park’s reputation as the most hitter-friendly stadium in the league. “It can definitely be tough to pitch in Seattle sometimes,” starting pitcher Bryan Woo observed. “But it’s good for the confidence of the guys in the lineup.”

Woo, a Bay Area native, continued his dominance over the Athletics, allowing just one unearned run over six innings on three hits, two walks and five strikeouts. In his three September starts, he has allowed just one earned run over 20 innings, lowering his ERA to 3.88. In 12 career starts against the Athletics, his ERA is 1.78. “We’re just trying to fight and hang on,” Woo said. “We’re doing everything we can to win today’s game. We’ll worry about tomorrow tomorrow. Then we’ll see what happens at the end.”

By the end of the game, the Athletics had been forced to send position player Carlos Cortes to the mound to record the final four outs. It was a situation familiar to the Mariners: over the past month, they had been blown out twice—22–0 in Milwaukee and 19–2 at home by the Cubs. They were due for a game like this. And they got it. The victory was not merely a statistical anomaly, but a symbol that even in a seemingly hopeless season there can be a reason for pride—especially when a 21-year-old rookie sends the ball onto a club building’s roof for the first time in his life, and his teammates douse him with beer and ketchup. The Mariners have lost 79 games, but on this Saturday they looked like a team that still had something to say.

Mariners’ playoff hopes fade, but the math leaves room for hope

The Seattle Mariners’ season is approaching its conclusion, and the situation is not developing favorably for the team. Not long ago, it seemed that the final 22-game stretch of the regular season—against opponents who were mostly unimpressive—would provide the M’s with a springboard into the postseason. Reality proved harsher: Scott Servais’ team stumbled out of the gate, losing three of four games to the lowly Athletics, and then managed to win two of three against the Texas Rangers. The result was just five wins in the last 14 games and an overall record of 69–78 before a nine-game road trip. Technically, the chances of October baseball are still alive, but, frankly, they are barely breathing. Much of this is not due to the team’s own performance, but to the dismal state of the American League as a whole, where even a team with a losing record can theoretically remain in the wild-card race.

The Mariners’ main storyline is unfolding on two fronts: the race for the AL West title and the battle for the third wild-card berth. In the division, the Houston Astros (75–72) lead the Texas Rangers by three games and Seattle by six. Even if the M’s win all 15 of their remaining games and finish 84–78, the Astros would need only ten wins, combined with Seattle losses, to reach the elimination number for securing the division title. If Houston maintains its current .510 winning percentage, it will finish with 83 wins, meaning the Mariners would need an extraordinary 14–1 run to catch them and win the tiebreaker. This detail is worth noting: Seattle holds the head-to-head advantage over the Astros, 9–2 this season, and has dominated the matchup since 2023. If the records are tied, that could work in Seattle’s favor.

The third wild-card race is no less complicated. Four teams sit between Seattle and the Cleveland Guardians (74–73), who currently occupy the coveted spot. Cleveland could mathematically eliminate the M’s from contention by reaching 84 wins, which would require a 10–5 finish. Given that the Guardians still have games against Minnesota (69–77, just half a game behind Seattle), Central Division leaders the Chicago White Sox, the surging Athletics, the Boston Red Sox and the Kansas City Royals, that will be extremely difficult. If Cleveland maintains its current .503 winning percentage, it will finish 82–80, and the Mariners would again need a 14–1 run to pass them.

What genuinely gives Seattle at least some hope is the schedule. The Mariners have the easiest remaining schedule in MLB: their opponents’ combined winning percentage is just .403. First comes a series against the Athletics, who, despite their recent success in Seattle, have played terribly at their temporary home in Sacramento, going 27–45. Then comes a road trip to face the Los Angeles Angels (59–90), whom the M’s have already beaten four times in six meetings, and the Colorado Rockies (55–91), the only MLB team with a worse record than the Angels. The only remaining opponent with a winning record is Houston, which will visit T-Mobile Park for two games on September 22–23. If the Astros begin to falter by then, that series could suddenly become the decisive point of the season.

Next weekend, Seattle will open a road series against the Athletics in Sacramento. George Kirby (9–11, 4.18 ERA) will take the mound Friday, Bryan Woo (11–9, 4.03 ERA) on Saturday, and Bryce Miller (4–9, 4.22 ERA) on Sunday. As always, all broadcasts will be available on Seattle Sports 710 AM and through the Seattle Sports app. Even the easiest schedule, however, will not help if the team does not start winning right now. According to Seattle Sports, the Mariners are in a situation where every game is effectively an elimination game, and any slip could prove fatal.

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Suspect Arrested in Mississippi in Tasia Fortune’s Death

Jackson, Mississippi, police arrested 51-year-old Jarkes Ratliff in connection with the death of 29-year-old Tasia Fortune. The woman was found hanging from a tree on Aug. 3 in the yard of an abandoned house. Jackson Police Chief Rashaall Brackney said the suspect had some connection to Fortune but did not specify the nature of their relationship. After medical examiners ruled the death a homicide, police were able to execute previously prepared search and arrest warrants. The case remains open, and additional arrests are possible.

Fortune’s mother, Kristi Spivey, said she cried and thanked police after learning of the arrest, but the family still does not know the motive or other important details. It is also unclear whether DNA analysis played a role in the investigation or whether Ratliff has an attorney. Spivey firmly rejects the theory that Fortune died by suicide, saying that despite her daughter’s struggles, she would never have taken such a step.

Fortune was the mother of four children and had faced homelessness and other serious difficulties in recent years. She was removed from her family as a child, then lived in several social-service facilities before eventually moving to Mississippi. Her mother said Fortune once endured physical and verbal abuse from the father of one of her children, but before her death she was trying to rebuild her life and planning to start a cleaning business. Spivey urges people not to forget her daughter and continues to demand a full investigation: “Say her name. Keep talking about her.”

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Based on: Mississippi police arrest a man in the death of Tasia Fortune

Reign Experiments, Wildcats Rout and GM Office

In Seattle, the Reign coach changed the lineup again, a high school team suffered a 55–0 defeat, and General Motors announced plans to open an office in 2027.

Reign’s “Lineup Revolution”: How a Goalkeeper’s Injury and Harvey’s Rotation Turned the Bay Match into Another Experiment

A short news item on the Seattle Reign’s official website before the match against Bay FC looks like a routine starting-lineup announcement. Behind the dry wording, however, lies a much more intriguing story. Head coach Laura Harvey shuffled the deck again, and this has become a defining feature of the 2026 season. While some National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) clubs are trying to find stability through familiarity, the Reign are deliberately pursuing constant change—and the match against Bay is yet another example.

According to the official announcement on the club’s website, there were two changes to the starting lineup compared with Sunday’s 1–0 victory over San Diego Wave. Cassie Miller will start in goal, replacing Claudia Dickey, who is unavailable because of a head injury. In attack, Nerilia Mondesir will come in for Mia Fishel. These changes may appear limited, but they best illustrate the season’s main statistical anomaly: since the start of the 2026 campaign, Laura Harvey has named 18 unique starting lineups in 23 matches. In other words, the coach has not used the same starting combination even once—and a significant portion of the season still remains.

To understand the scale of this, it is worth explaining what a “unique starting lineup” means in football analytics. It means that the combination of 11 players starting a match has not appeared in any other game that season. In professional football, such turnover is considered extreme. Even at clubs with deep rotations, coaches usually try to preserve a core of seven or eight players while varying the remaining positions. Harvey, by contrast, is effectively rebuilding the team from match to match. That may reflect flexibility in her tactical system, or it may be a forced response to a crowded schedule, injuries and fatigue.

The goalkeeper situation deserves particular attention. Claudia Dickey’s head injury is not simply the loss of one player. In the NWSL, as in football worldwide, concussion protocols are becoming increasingly strict, and a goalkeeper who has taken a blow to the head must undergo a multistage evaluation before returning. Cassie Miller’s appearance is not a tactical choice but a direct result of medical restrictions. Still, such emergencies are precisely what shape the statistic of 18 unique lineups: some rotation comes from design, and some from necessity.

The attacking change is also revealing. Mia Fishel is replaced by Nerilia Mondesir, which could signal a shift in emphasis up front—from a more traditional target forward to a player capable of attacking space and operating at speed. Against Bay, a team that traditionally builds its play from a defensive foundation and a compact mid-block, this change could prove troublesome if Mondesir finds room behind the defenders.

The key insight is simple: the 2026 Reign are a team without a settled core. On the one hand, this level of variation makes them unpredictable for opponents, who cannot prepare for one specific pattern of play. On the other, a lack of cohesion inevitably affects the automaticity of their combinations, particularly during transitions and set pieces. The match against Bay will be another test of whether Harvey’s improvisation can compensate for the lack of stability. If it can, it will be a coaching masterpiece. If not, questions about the rotation will only grow.

Road Rout: West Seattle Wildcats Continue Searching for Their First Win

Sometimes in sports, there are games one wants to forget as quickly as possible. That was the kind of game the West Seattle high school football team, known as the Wildcats, played last Saturday. Their road game against Rainier Beach ended in a crushing 55–0 defeat, and the team now returns home empty-handed, still without a win this season.

The game was played at the Southeast Athletic Complex, and by the final whistle it was clear that the Wildcats had been unable to offer their opponents any meaningful resistance. Fifty-five unanswered points is not merely a defeat but a complete rout—one that will likely prompt the coaching staff to reconsider both its tactical schemes and the players’ mental approach.

The zero on the scoreboard is a separate source of concern for the team. In American football, where scores are often measured in the dozens, being shut out means the offense failed to reach the end zone even once or kick a field goal. That points to systemic problems on offense that cannot be solved simply by changing the team’s attitude.

Nevertheless, the season continues, and the Wildcats will have an opportunity to redeem themselves in front of their fans. Their next game is scheduled for Friday, September 18, at 7 p.m. local time. This time, the team will play at home, at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex, located in the southwestern part of the city at 2801 SW Thistle. The opponent will be Lincoln High School. A home game offers not only the advantage of support from the stands but also a chance to show that the team can regroup after such a painful defeat.

For those unfamiliar with American football, a few points are worth explaining. Unlike association football, where scores are usually modest, American football awards points for different achievements: a touchdown is worth six points, followed by an opportunity to add one or two more, while a field goal is worth three. A score of 55–0 is therefore not entirely unusual at the high school level, where the difference in ability between teams can be substantial. Judging by the result, Rainier Beach appears to have a much stronger roster and a more polished system.

This is not the Wildcats’ first loss of the season, and it leaves the team in a difficult position. However, school sports differ from professional sports in that player development—not just the result—is the top priority. The coaches will surely use this game as a lesson, painful but necessary for growth.

Fans can only hope that the next game, reported by the West Seattle Blog, will bring the team its first win. After all, every losing streak eventually comes to an end, and there is no better place to end one than at home, in front of your own supporters.

General Motors to Open New Seattle Office: Bet on Talent and the Future of Mobility

General Motors, one of the largest automakers in the United States, has announced plans to open a new workspace in Seattle. The office will be located in the West8 building in the Denny Triangle neighborhood and is expected to begin operating in early 2027. The decision marks another step in GM’s expansion beyond the country’s traditional automotive center, Detroit, where the corporation is headquartered. The new location is expected to accommodate “a couple hundred” employees from divisions including digital products, autonomous vehicles, information technology and marketing. Although the final headcount and the office’s total capacity have not yet been disclosed, the decision to open a site in Seattle signals GM’s strategic interest in a region known for its technology talent.

Seattle has long established itself as one of the leading technology hubs in the United States. Giants such as Amazon and Microsoft are based there, while Boeing and Costco also maintain operations in the area. The arrival of another Fortune 500 company will intensify competition for engineering and technical talent, while also creating new opportunities for local professionals. General Motors says the new office is intended to serve as a space for collaboration and the exchange of ideas. “This investment expands GM’s presence in a region rich in technical talent and creates new opportunities for people to come together, collaborate and help shape the future of mobility,” the company said. According to the automaker, the office will have enough workstations, meeting rooms and collaboration areas to support both focused individual work and teamwork. The West8 building also offers a fitness center, an on-site café, electric-vehicle charging stations and other amenities.

In GM’s context, “autonomous vehicles” refers to the company’s work on self-driving technology, which it pursues actively through subsidiaries including Cruise. “Digital products” covers a broad range of software solutions, from in-car multimedia systems to data-based services. “Information technology” includes internal infrastructure and cybersecurity, while “marketing” involves promoting the Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet and GMC brands that GM manufactures and sells primarily in the American market. The corporation is headquartered in Detroit and has 25 offices across the country, including locations in Los Angeles, Pasadena, Austin and Concord, as well as international sites in Melbourne, Bogotá and other cities.

The key question is how many employees will ultimately work in Seattle and how quickly GM plans to expand its presence there. The company has not yet disclosed either the office’s final capacity or its definitive staffing plan. Nevertheless, the announcement, published on the General Motors website and confirmed by Fortune 500 data, can already be viewed as a signal: the automaker is betting on software, autonomy and digital services—not only traditional manufacturing. For Seattle, this means a stronger position as the technology capital of the Pacific Northwest and another indication that the future of the automotive industry will be shaped not only in Detroit but also in cities where IT expertise is concentrated. The news, first reported by FOX 13 Seattle, highlights a broader trend: major industrial corporations are increasingly opening engineering centers in regions with strong technology ecosystems to compete for talent and accelerate the development of digital products.

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Boeing, Police, and Seattle Safety

Boeing is offering engineers an improved contract to avoid a strike, while Seattle businesses complain about slow police response and a police operation involving arrests takes place in Crown Hill.

Boeing offers engineers a 10 percent raise to avoid a Washington strike

Boeing has made its unionized engineers and technical workers, represented by SPEEA, a final contract offer intended to prevent a large-scale strike. The group includes more than 16,000 employees, concentrated mainly in the Puget Sound region, as well as in Oregon, California, and Utah. These are the first full negotiations between Boeing and SPEEA in 14 years, and their outcome could significantly affect both the aircraft manufacturer and the broader high-tech and engineering labor market.

The offer, presented Friday, provides for an immediate 10 percent pay increase once the contract is approved, another guaranteed 4 percent increase in March 2027, and a guaranteed minimum annual increase of 4 percent through 2030. In addition, “salary pools” of 6 percent are planned for 2028, 2029, and 2030. At least 4 percent of each pool would be guaranteed, while the remainder could be distributed depending on the outcome of negotiations and the needs of individual divisions. The contract also revises language concerning remote work and overtime restrictions for certain categories of employees.

The union leadership, which represents more than 12,600 engineers and scientists as well as nearly 4,000 technical workers, recommends that members vote yes. In a joint statement, the SPEEA negotiating committee emphasized that these results were made possible by the unity and solidarity shown in recent weeks. The union called the proposal “a real step forward toward improving pay and working conditions, as well as rebuilding the relationship between Boeing management and union members.” An official ratification vote date has not yet been announced; the union will set it.

On the company’s side, Boeing Vice President and Chief Engineer of Manufacturing Design Ben Nimmergut said the final offer addresses the key priorities of employees and SPEEA’s negotiating teams, including an immediate pay increase and larger guaranteed salary pools. “We are optimistic that this will allow all of us to focus on the important work ahead,” he said, according to FOX 13 Seattle.

The context of the negotiations makes the situation especially tense. The current labor agreement between Boeing and SPEEA, last extended in 2020, expires October 6. On August 21, engineers and technical workers rejected the company’s previous offer and overwhelmingly authorized a possible strike: about 64 percent of members voted against the contract, demanding more substantial improvements, while nearly 88 percent voted in favor of a strike. Experts offered mixed assessments of that rejection. Mike Dunlop, who has 40 years of experience working directly and indirectly with Boeing, said the company’s new leadership appeared willing to compromise, but that a strike would ultimately benefit no one. “This is the wrong time for industrial action, when Boeing has an order book representing nearly eight years of production, including increased output and the opening of a new 737 line,” he said. Nevertheless, the threat of a strike appears to have prompted the company to offer more generous terms than in the previous round.

If accepted, the proposal will send an important signal throughout the sector. Boeing, still dealing with the effects of the pandemic and production problems, is trying to stabilize relations with the key engineering personnel on whom the safety and timely delivery of aircraft depend. If the contract is rejected and a strike begins, the company could face further delivery delays and rising costs. Amid fierce competition with Airbus and a growing order book, that could prove extremely painful. For now, the union and Boeing management are at a point where a single vote will determine whether they compromise or enter into an open labor confrontation.

Even Nordstrom complains: Seattle police are not responding to calls

Seattle has long faced a problem residents have discussed for years: when you call 911, police often simply do not show up. The issue has been reported repeatedly, but major corporations are now saying the same thing. Last week, 35 executives from leading companies — including Microsoft, Costco, and Alaska Airlines — appealed to city officials to improve public safety. Among the signatories was Nordstrom CEO Erik Nordstrom, who cited startling statistics: at the company’s flagship store in downtown Seattle, only 29 percent of 911 calls result in a police response. By comparison, at the Southcenter mall in the suburb of Tukwila, the figure is 100 percent. The downtown store made 70 calls between January and July of this year, and only 20 resulted in a police visit. In Southcenter, officers responded to all 47 calls. Meanwhile, Tukwila’s police budget is about $22 million, compared with $488 million for Seattle’s police department. The disparity has left businesses and residents baffled.

The problem is not that Seattle police are inactive in every situation. On Thursday morning, for example, officers arrived within minutes at a fight in Westlake Park, near the Nordstrom store, and arrested a murder suspect at the scene. But such cases are more the exception than the rule. According to analyst Jeff Asher of AH Datalytics, Seattle ranks last among 14 major U.S. cities for response times. In New York, police arrive twice as fast on average. Seattle’s target for the most serious calls, Priority 1, is seven minutes or less; for calls involving a threat of violence or property damage, Priority 2, the target is 15 minutes. In practice, however, the average response time this year is 9.6 minutes for Priority 1 calls, with a median of seven minutes — meaning half met the standard and half did not — while Priority 2 calls take a full 56 minutes on average. That is better than several years ago, when staffing shortages forced the department to stop responding to some lower-priority calls altogether. But it is still far from ideal.

The reason is a staffing shortage. Despite recent recruitment efforts, the Seattle Police Department has shrunk by 25 percent over six years. In 2020, there were 694 patrol officers; now there are 489. The total number of employees has fallen from 1,339 to 985, according to a June report to the City Council. At the same time, the police budget has increased by roughly 20 percent, from $409 million to $488 million, reflecting higher salaries and other costs. This situation is common among local governments, much like Seattle schools, which speak of “bankruptcy” despite record revenues. The paradox is that crime in the city is generally declining, with serious offenses down year over year despite high-profile shootings. This has led some to argue that police refusal to respond to property crimes is not such a major problem. But the author asks: What if the perpetrator is still at the scene? Or what if the issue is illegal street racing that could be dispersed by a couple of patrol cars? In the author’s view, Seattle has simply “lowered the bar” because failing to meet standards has become normal. Possible solutions include hiring civilian investigators for property crimes, using AI agents, or submitting evidence through an online portal instead of making pointless 911 calls. But falling behind Tukwila, where police respond to every call, seems unacceptable. In their letter to city officials, business leaders ask the city to “return to the current seven-minute response standard for Priority 1 calls” and “redirect spending and resources toward achieving it.” Fulfilling that request will be difficult, however, given the scale of the staffing crisis and the system’s inertia.

For context, Priority 1 calls involve threats to life, such as fights involving weapons or murders. Priority 2 calls involve threats of violence or property damage but no immediate danger to life. “Defund the police” is a movement advocating reduced police funding that gained strength after George Floyd’s murder in 2020, leading many officers to leave the profession. The term “defining deviancy down” was coined by Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan to describe a process in which society stops treating a problem as a problem because it has become too widespread. According to the author, that is precisely what is happening with police response times in Seattle.

Police standoff in a quiet Seattle neighborhood: three detained and questions unanswered

Last Friday afternoon, residents of Seattle’s Crown Hill neighborhood, known for its quiet streets and family homes, witnessed a scene more reminiscent of a crime drama: police vehicles, blocked roads, and a battering ram breaking through a front door. According to Fox 13 Seattle, the incident began when a man wanted on multiple warrants fled into a home near the intersection of Northwest 90th Street and 14th Avenue.

According to official information, officers attempted to arrest the suspect at about 2:30 p.m., but he fled into the residence. This began an almost hourlong standoff. Officers first cordoned off the block and urged residents to avoid the area, then used a battering ram to enter the house. By the time they went inside, the man had been taken into custody, while two other people inside were detained. Police later said the scene had been cleared and the threat to the public had ended.

Yet behind the apparent clarity of the official reports lies a series of unanswered questions. The most important is what exactly the main suspect was wanted for. Police referred to “multiple warrants” but did not specify the nature or seriousness of the allegations. Were they minor offenses, such as unpaid fines, or something far more serious that would explain such an aggressive arrest operation? The fate of the other two detainees is equally unclear. Were they arrested as a result of the incident, or merely held temporarily while officers investigated? Official statements do not answer that question.

The use of a battering ram is notable in itself. Such a tool is used when there is reason to believe a suspect will not open the door voluntarily, and it indicates that police assessed the risk as elevated. Yet the report says nothing about whether weapons were used during the arrest, whether anyone was injured, or whether anyone threatened police. That leaves room for interpretation, ranging from a standard warrant operation to a potentially more troubling context that law enforcement chose not to disclose.

The local context is also worth noting. Fox 13 Seattle’s report appeared alongside other regional crime stories, from a fatal shooting in Belltown to an attack on police officers involving a stolen truck in Everett. This is not accidental: media outlets place the Crown Hill incident within a broader frame, suggesting that even Seattle’s more affluent neighborhoods are not immune to bursts of violence and police operations. For local residents, it may prompt a reassessment of their assumptions about the safety of their own neighborhood.

So what do we know? We know that arrests were made, force was used, and details were withheld. Police did their job: a wanted suspect was taken into custody and the scene was cleared. But without answers about who these people were and what exactly happened behind the closed door, the story remains incomplete, and it is too early to draw conclusions. Further official statements may shed light on the circumstances, but for now we know only as much as police deemed necessary to report — and that may be the main lesson of the day for anyone following news from Seattle.

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Nearly 350 Washington students named scholarship semifinalists

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation has named nearly 350 students from Washington state semifinalists in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program. They are among more than 16,000 students nationwide who earned the highest scores on the 2026 PSAT. The standardized test is typically taken by high school juniors. Organizers estimate that about 95% of semifinalists will become finalists, and approximately half of those finalists will receive scholarships.

Finalists will be eligible for three types of financial support: 2,500 National Merit Scholarships worth $2,500 each; approximately 700 corporate-sponsored scholarships of varying amounts; and 3,500 scholarships funded by about 140 colleges and universities. To become finalists, students and a school representative must submit an application detailing academic performance, extracurricular and community activities, leadership, honors and employment; write an essay; and provide a confirming SAT or ACT score. Finalists must also have an outstanding academic record throughout high school. Their names will be announced in four stages from April through August next year.

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Based on: WA semifinalists for 2027 National Merit Scholarships announced

Drew Lock, a Weather Mix-Up and a Bolt Record

In this roundup: Drew Lock led the Seattle Seahawks to a win over the New England Patriots after replacing the injured Darnold; an amusing incident at FOX 13 Seattle mixed a weather forecast with U.S.-Iran geopolitics; and Athletics rookie Henry Bolte matched a 1977 achievement by recording 10 home runs and 20 stolen bases in a season.

Drew Lock and His Biggest Strength: How Seattle Won Without Darnold

The Seattle Seahawks’ season opener got off to a disjointed start: during the very first possession, starting quarterback Sam Darnold suffered a hip injury and left the game. Drew Lock came on in relief, and although his appearance did not immediately spark the offense, he guided the team to a 13–10 victory over the New England Patriots in a Super Bowl rematch. Lock threw no interceptions and was sacked just once. In the second half, he orchestrated three consecutive scoring drives that allowed the Seahawks to come back and secure the win. Lock will now start at least one more game, on the road against Arizona.

On Seattle Sports, Seahawks radio analyst and former NFL receiver Brian Walters explained Lock’s greatest strength. In his view, Drew’s key quality is his ability to get the ball to his playmakers by choosing quick, simple throws. “He really does a good job of trusting his teammates and making sure they’re in the right position,” Walters said. Against the Patriots, Lock passed for 187 yards, completing 16 of 22 attempts. That principle—not forcing the issue, but using the players around him—helped him avoid mistakes in a difficult situation.

The clearest example of this approach was his 45-yard touchdown pass to Jaxon Smith-Njigba. According to Walters, most of the work on the play was done by the receiver. On fourth-and-one, Lock was supposed to throw to the running back in the flat, while JSN was merely serving as a distraction. However, the New England defense made a serious mistake: no one covered Smith-Njigba in the middle of the field. Walters noted that Jackson himself was surprised to find himself open, while Lock spotted it immediately and delivered the pass. “Cornerback Christian Gonzalez went with the running back, and the linebacker ran right past JSN and immediately regretted it. Great find by Drew Lock,” the analyst added. Officially, the 45 yards and touchdown go down as Lock’s achievement, but in reality, the receiver did most of the work.

Several football terms require clarification here. A “sack” is when a quarterback is brought down with the ball behind the line of scrimmage before he can throw a pass; being sacked only once in a game is a sign of composure and quick decision-making. The “flat” is the area near the sideline where running backs are often sent for short passes. It is a relatively safe, lightly occupied part of the field, making such throws among the least risky. “Fourth-and-one” is a critical play in which a team must gain the required distance or surrender the ball to its opponent. Because the cost of a mistake is greatest in these situations, choosing a short pass instead of a risky deep throw reflects a quarterback’s maturity.

The main lessons from this play are revealing. First, the Seahawks showed that they have a dependable backup quarterback capable of keeping the game from falling apart while Darnold recovers. Second, Lock’s style—“don’t try to be a hero; use the weapons around you”—is an ideal fit for a team with strong playmakers such as Smith-Njigba. Third, even in a winning game, Seattle calmly identified and exploited a weakness in its opponent. If Lock maintains this trait—trusting his teammates and minimizing risky decisions—the Seahawks may be able to withstand their starter’s absence without losing ground in the title race. Walters’ comment that Lock “just trusts the guys around him” is essentially the formula for his value: he does not try to win alone; he enables the team to win.

When the Weather Matters More Than Geopolitics: A Strange Seattle Forecast

Even in a world where news of diplomatic confrontations between Washington and Tehran dominates the headlines, there is still room for ordinary human concerns. That was the case at FOX 13 Seattle, where viewers were offered a weather forecast in a Saturday edition dated September 12, titled “Saturday Morning Weather Forecast, 9/12.” However, instead of a routine meteorological update, the video’s brief description contained a phrase that instantly transported viewers from rainy Seattle to the center of global politics: “Major diplomatic push to stop fighting between the U.S. and Iran.”

This amusing incident is a vivid example of how automated systems or a human formatting error can create nearly surreal combinations. At first glance, it was an ordinary morning weather report for residents of the U.S. Pacific Northwest. But on closer inspection, the headline and the news content created a striking disconnect—one that says a great deal about overloaded news feeds, the rush to publish, and the way even local television stations must balance the trivial with the existential. A reader who clicked the FOX 13 Seattle video expected to see the temperature, the chance of precipitation, and the wind direction. Instead, they were reminded that the world was on the brink of a major conflict.

The context is important. The mention of a “major diplomatic push” between the United States and Iran was not fiction or a joke. In recent years, relations between Washington and Tehran have repeatedly come close to military confrontation—from the U.S. withdrawal from the nuclear deal in 2018 to a series of attacks on tankers in the Strait of Hormuz and the 2020 U.S. drone strike that killed Iranian General Qassem Soleimani. Each time, the international community, including European mediators, sought to prevent a full-scale war. The phrase “stop fighting” implies that active clashes were already taking place—something that has happened only rarely in reality, but has always been a frightening possibility. Diplomatic pressure in such situations typically includes sanctions, back-channel negotiations, urgent visits by envoys, and public statements by foreign-policy officials.

But back to the Seattle forecast. Why was a weather story linked to Iran at all? Most likely, it was a technical glitch: two different video segments became mixed together on one page or in one player. Alternatively, an editor may have accidentally inserted the headline and description from another piece, perhaps a news report focused on foreign policy. Such mix-ups can happen at FOX 13 Seattle, a local station, but they usually go unnoticed. Here, the combination was so absurd that it attracted attention. It resembles a classic example of selection bias in the information stream: we notice what stands out, while hundreds of accurate weather forecasts pass without comment.

What can we learn from the incident? First, it highlights the fragility of modern digital journalism. Automation, haste, and multitasking can cause content to lose its coherence. Second, it shows how strongly the global agenda can penetrate even local formats: if the forecast description had simply listed the temperature, no one would have thought twice. But mentioning Iran and the United States forces us into a more serious frame of mind. Third, it reminds us that every media product is created by people who can make mistakes—and that even trusted sources should not be accepted blindly.

The key takeaway is simple: do not let headlines confuse you. If you are looking for a weather forecast and find geopolitics instead, an error has probably occurred. But if you are looking for news about diplomatic pressure between the United States and Iran and find a weather report, that is a reason to reflect on how news algorithms work. Ultimately, this incident at FOX 13 Seattle will remain merely an amusing curiosity, but it neatly illustrates how Seattle rain and the threat of war in the Middle East can end up mixed together. Both matter, but each has its own time and place.

Henry Bolte Enters Athletics History by Matching a 1977 Achievement

In baseball, where statistics often serve as the language of legend, a single number can sometimes tell the story of an entire season. That happened Friday night, when Athletics rookie Henry Bolte became the club’s first rookie in nearly half a century to reach 10 home runs and 20 stolen bases in a single season. The last player to accomplish the feat was Mitchell Page in 1977—and that comparison alone is powerful evidence of how exceptional this young player could become.

According to the official report of the game between the Seattle Mariners and the Athletics, published on MLB.com, Bolte reached the milestone in a game that may not have been a turning point in the standings, but certainly entered franchise history. The combination of power and speed is a rare and highly valuable asset in modern baseball. Players who can both hit the ball out of the park and threaten on the basepaths place constant pressure on opposing pitchers and defenses. That is what is known as five-tool talent, and Bolte appears to be moving confidently toward becoming that kind of player.

For those unfamiliar with baseball statistics, a home run is a hit that sends the ball beyond the boundaries of the playing field, allowing the batter and all runners on base to complete their circuits and score. A stolen base is a successful attempt by a runner to advance to the next base during the pitcher’s delivery. It requires not only speed, but also instant reactions and the ability to read the game. Reaching 10 home runs and 20 stolen bases is a kind of entry ticket to the club of elite all-around players who can change a game in many different ways.

Mitchell Page, whose achievement Bolte has now matched, was a prominent figure in the late 1970s, and his 1977 season remained a benchmark for Athletics rookies for many years. The fact that the mark stood for 49 years shows how difficult it is to combine power and speed at such a high level from the very beginning of a major-league career. Bolte has not merely matched Page’s achievement—he has placed his name alongside it, which is itself a defining moment in his young career.

Looking at the bigger picture, this milestone could have major implications for the Athletics’ future. A team that has spent recent years rebuilding and searching for a new identity urgently needs young stars around whom it can build a roster. With his unique combination of skills, Bolte looks like exactly that kind of player. His progress is more than a statistical milestone; it is a signal to fans and the organization that the foundation for future success may already be in place.

Of course, one season does not define a career, and Bolte still has a long road ahead. But moments like his performance against the Mariners matter for more than the statistics. They build confidence, establish a reputation, and give a young player the inner foundation that separates good players from great ones. The Athletics have not simply acquired a promising rookie—they have acquired a player who is already capable of making history. And perhaps, decades from now, someone else will be trying to match his achievement.

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Court orders UW employee released after health worsens in ICE detention

Federal Judge Tiffany Cartwright ordered Robert Sidhe released from the Northwest Detention Center, a private immigration detention facility in Tacoma used by the federal agency ICE. The court ruled that the 43-year-old Kenyan citizen had to be released within six hours because of his elevated risk of a stroke. By Friday evening, his fiancée confirmed that he had returned home. Authorities have not yet officially begun deportation proceedings, although that is expected to happen.

While in custody, Sidhe’s blood pressure rose sharply and he developed stroke-like symptoms. He was taken by ambulance to St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma. Tests did not confirm that he had suffered a stroke, but his attorney said the risk of another episode remains and that access to emergency care at the detention center could be difficult.

People detained at the Northwest Detention Center rely on the facility’s internal medical service and established procedures: They generally must report their symptoms, undergo an initial triage and receive authorization for an examination. Limited staffing, delays in transportation to an outside hospital, language barriers, telephone access problems and fear of staff can delay requests for help. Emergency medical care, however, must be provided regardless of immigration status.

The judge described the possible consequences of Sidhe’s deteriorating condition as “catastrophic.” She also took into account that he cares for his partner, a U.S. citizen with a disability who uses a wheelchair.

Sidhe has worked as a patient care technician at UW Medicine since 2025. He legally entered the United States several times on visas, and in February 2023 he applied for asylum, which is still pending. ICE detained him Aug. 26 in Lynnwood, saying that he had overstayed his visa. The agency emphasized that a pending asylum application by itself does not confer legal status or prevent detention.

At the same time, people whose asylum applications are pending retain the right to an attorney at their own expense, an interpreter, participation in hearings and the presentation of evidence. They may also request release on bond or under specific conditions. After the legally established waiting period, they are generally allowed to apply for work authorization, but filing an application does not guarantee release, the right to remain in the United States or asylum approval.

Sidhe was previously a doctor in Kenya and founded the Hawi Global Foundation, a charity that helps people obtain medical care. He treated people injured in a 2011 pipeline explosion and testified in a compensation case for survivors. He said that after the victims prevailed in court, he was threatened and his brother was killed, which formed the basis of his asylum claim. The foundation also established a branch in Washington state that provides local families with food and medical assistance.

The release order was issued as part of a temporary restraining order pending full consideration of his petition for protection against unlawful detention. The judge noted that Sidhe’s case likely has strong prospects: Earlier rulings required authorities to notify people with expired visas and pending asylum applications in advance before changing their previous practice and detaining them.

The state employees’ union and Sidhe’s colleagues supported him. In situations like this, the union may provide employees with legal advice, representatives, assistance for their families and help communicating with attorneys or a consulate. The extent of support depends on the collective bargaining agreement and the circumstances of the case. UW Medicine, for its part, generally provides medical care based on clinical need and follows patient confidentiality rules; medical facilities typically do not participate in immigration enforcement without an appropriate legal basis. The university agreed to preserve Sidhe’s job and use his accrued leave while he was detained.

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Based on: UW Medical Center staffer ordered released from ICE detention

Shoreline School Staff Reach Agreement With District, Cancel Strike

The Shoreline Education Support Professionals Association (SESPA) union reached a tentative agreement with the school district on Friday, averting a strike that could have forced schools to close beginning Monday, September 14. Following the agreement, classes will continue as usual, and more than 300 paraprofessionals, technical and health-care workers, security guards and secretaries will return to work. Negotiations had been ongoing since April. On Wednesday, union members voted to strike if the district did not respond to their demands, and they were prepared to continue negotiating through Sunday evening to avoid a work stoppage that would have closed schools.

On Friday evening, September 11, parents of Shoreline schoolchildren got the notice they had been waiting for all week, and it turned out to be short. The Shoreline School District and the union representing its support staff had reached a tentative agreement; school would be in session on Monday, September 14. The announcement posted on the schools' websites even carried a typo in the word "tentative" - a small thing, but one that suggests the text was typed quickly and probably late.

To understand why that single sentence mattered to several thousand families in Shoreline and Lake Forest Park, you have to picture exactly whom it concerns. The union is SESPA, the Shoreline Educational Support Professionals Association. Its collective bargaining agreement covers secretaries, office managers, technical employees, student supervisors, paraeducators, nurses, health assistants, security staff, crossing guards and substitutes. More than three hundred people in all. A paraeducator is neither a teacher nor a babysitter: it is the adult who sits beside the child who is struggling and makes the lesson happen for that child. Most often this means students with disabilities. In an American school, that person is load-bearing structure, the kind you notice only when it is removed.

A support staff strike closes the school entirely. This seems illogical: the teachers, after all, are there. But without a nurse, no one administers medication on schedule; without a paraeducator, an individualized education program cannot be carried out, and the district is answerable for that under federal law; without a secretary, no one picks up the call reporting that a child never got off the bus; and without a crossing guard at 155th, the children simply do not cross the street. So the announcement of a possible work stoppage beginning Monday meant exactly what it said: no school on Monday.

Negotiations had been going on since April. Midweek, union members voted overwhelmingly to authorize their bargaining team to call a strike beginning Monday, September 14, if the two sides failed to reach an agreement by eight o'clock Sunday evening. The union was seeking overall wage increases that would bring its members in line with neighboring districts, with particular emphasis on paraeducator pay. The bargaining team said it was available to meet through Saturday and Sunday.

The business of neighboring districts deserves a closer look, because it is the nerve running through the whole story. According to the Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, paraeducators in the state earn on average between 22 and 27 dollars an hour. In King County, where the median rent on a one-bedroom apartment passed fifteen hundred dollars a month long ago, that is a wage you don't live on so much as manage on. And the work is seasonal by nature: a school year runs roughly 180 to 190 days, which means no earnings at all over the summer. Rebecca Winters, a paraeducator in Port Angeles for twenty years and the president of her union during the 2024 strike there, described it without any grandeur: many of her colleagues take second and third jobs to make ends meet, and that time comes out of family dinners and weekends. She also described the other side of the profession, the one that doesn't appear in job postings: over her career she has been kicked and spat on, and a substantial part of the day goes to absorbing other people's aggression, sadness and anger and then finding a way to get a child back to learning.

The district has its own arithmetic, and it is not invented either. Shoreline is a small district, about nine and a half thousand students across sixteen schools, wedged between the northern edge of Seattle and Lynnwood. For the past three years it has lived in a permanent state of cutting. For the 2025-26 school year the district estimated a budget deficit of 6.5 to 8.5 million dollars and commissioned an independent financial review, which confirmed the need to reduce spending by roughly six and a half million. By spring the projected shortfall had improved from 4.12 million to 2.43 million, partly because enrollment came in higher than budgeted, but the district's own reports state it plainly: the gap between state revenue and what programs actually cost will require further reductions. In August 2025, more than 75 percent of voters in Shoreline and Lake Forest Park approved a one-year supplemental levy for educational programs and operations, and in February 2026 the district put two replacement levies on the ballot to succeed the ones expiring in December.

The reason for this chronic deficit is not local. Washington funds its schools through what is called the prototypical model: the state pays not for the staff who actually work in a building, but for the staff a hypothetical school with a given number of students is presumed to need. Everything beyond that, districts must raise through local levies, which have to be re-approved by voters every few years. Seattle superintendent Ben Shuldiner explained the mechanics this summer with an accountant's bluntness: the state's inflation adjustment is 2.6 percent, but Seattle receives roughly two-thirds of that, because the state pays by model rather than by actual staffing - meaning that any employee who receives the full adjustment is receiving more than the state provided. Translated out of administrative language: when a union demands a cost-of-living increase, it is demanding it not from Olympia but from a district that does not physically have the money. Hence the tone of negotiations in which both sides are right and both are cornered.

The fall of 2026 has been a crowded one in this region. Ten days before Shoreline, the same script played out in Seattle, only at twenty times the scale. The union representing some six thousand teachers, paraeducators, counselors and support staff voted to authorize a strike with 91 percent in favor, after 24 bargaining sessions. An agreement was reached late on Tuesday evening, September 1, and schools opened Wednesday morning as planned. The deal was a three-year contract; according to the union, 52 issues were on the table and all 52 were resolved - from guidelines on the use of artificial intelligence in schools to support for educational ASL interpreters and voluntary transfers for paraprofessionals.

A year earlier, in the southwest corner of the state, it went worse. In the Evergreen district near Vancouver, 1,400 classified employees - paraeducators, bus drivers, security officers, mechanics - walked out for the first time in their union's 57-year history, leaving 22,000 students without school. The year started nearly three weeks late there, and the twelve lost days had to be made up from the day before Thanksgiving, one day of winter break and two January holidays. That calendar, rather than any rhetoric about solidarity, best explains why both sides in Shoreline exhaled on Friday. A September strike does not cancel school days; it moves them to June, to holidays, to vacation weeks, and in the end families pay for it.

The week leading up to the agreement in Shoreline followed a familiar script with an aesthetic all its own. Red shirts - "Red for Ed," the color teachers' unions claimed during the strike wave of the late 2010s; in Shoreline people wore red during the previous conflict, in 2023, as well. The district's teachers, who belong to a separate union, SEA, voted Wednesday to support their colleagues in the event of a strike, and SESPA members set Saturday at eleven in the morning for a gathering at Shoreline Park to make picket signs. That Saturday meeting, like all of them, was half preparation for conflict and half a way to feel that there are three hundred of you and not one. In an American school strike the sign is a genre unto itself: poster board, markers, participants' children on the grass nearby, an obligatory dose of self-mockery in the text, because earnestness on cardboard reads badly and a joke about the pay of the secretary who "just holds the whole building together" reads well. This year the signs will apparently stay in the garage. That is the best possible outcome and, at the same time, a small loss: the energy that has been gathered doesn't disappear, it simply carries over to the next item on the agenda.

Running alongside all week was a second, invisible infrastructure: the parents'. Notices on ParentSquare, the platform the district uses to reach families, were read with the particular attention people reserve for a snow forecast. In neighborhood Facebook groups and PTA chats the usual exchange unfolded: who has a seat in the car, who can take two kids until noon, does the extended-care program run when the school is closed, will employers count the day as child-care leave. A September strike in a suburb is first of all a child-care crisis, and it lands very unevenly: a household with two remote jobs gets through the week grumbling; a household where the mother works shifts at a hospital or a store does not. Public discussion in such days splits predictably as well: one set of neighbors writes "we're with you, you deserve more," another writes "they signed up for this job and the kids are the ones suffering," and on the whole both are sincere.

It matters to be clear about what was actually achieved on Friday. The word "tentative" is not a formality. An agreement stays tentative until it is approved by a vote of union members and by the district's school board. The details are usually withheld until ratification, and Shoreline has a fresh memory of this step being anything but automatic. In the fall of 2023, the SESPA bargaining team brought an already negotiated contract to a membership meeting, and the members rejected it. The union president at the time spoke of accumulated resentment: people were being asked to accept cuts in a contract that protects some of the district's lowest-paid employees. The district's offer, according to the union, would have cut 1.3 million dollars in salaries and about thirty jobs. "I'm frustrated, I'm hurt, and I feel like I've been disrespected," said Nancy Warfield, the office manager at Kellogg Middle School, who had been with the district twenty-five years. That sentence is enough to explain why, three years later, negotiations went as far as a strike vote: conflicts of this kind don't end with a signature, they go dormant until the next contract.

There is a longer memory, too. In 2010, SESPA and the district likewise failed to settle over the summer, likewise entered the school year without a contract, likewise brought in a state mediator - and likewise finished with a tentative agreement that members ratified at the end of October. The school board president of that era stated the district's position in terms that have barely changed since: the contract met the mutual interests of both parties where possible while allowing the district to sustain financial stability, keeping compensation packages at or near the midpoint of the surrounding thirty districts in King and Snohomish counties. The whole of the present dispute is an argument over where that midpoint lies and why Shoreline keeps landing below it.

So on Monday, September 14, the school doors in Shoreline will open, the phones will ring in the front offices, someone in an orange vest will step into the crosswalk by Parkwood, a nurse will sort the morning medications into their slots, and a paraeducator will sit down at a low table beside a child who wouldn't make it to the end of the lesson without her. On this week's calendar: a health curriculum night at Echo Lake, and the start of Hispanic Heritage Month on September 15. All the things a school exists for, and which become visible only at the moment there is a risk they won't happen.

And the ratification vote is still ahead. If the history of this district teaches anything, it is that the real news is not in a Friday email with a typo, but in how three hundred people vote once they have read the numbers.

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Based on: Strike averted as Shoreline school staff reach agreement with district

Digest: Water Chase, 9/11 Memories and Brown’s Injury

In Seattle, a boat owner pursued a suspected thief on the water, former White House press secretary Scott McClellan shared his memories of September 11, and A.J. Brown’s injury exposed the fragility of the Patriots’ hopes.

West Seattle boat owner pursues suspected thief on the water

A West Seattle boat owner named Garrett, who asked that his last name not be published, experienced something this week that fell somewhere between a nautical mystery and an action-movie chase. His vessel was docked in Fauntleroy Cove around noon Tuesday when a neighbor messaged him: someone unfamiliar was aboard. When Garrett arrived, he found a stranger inside the cabin of his boat.

Asked, reasonably enough, what he was doing on someone else’s vessel, the man offered the sort of excuse one might expect from a bad alibi: a friend had supposedly told him the boat had been abandoned, and he “had the right to be there.” Garrett immediately noticed more troubling details, however. The uninvited guest’s inflatable boat contained items that were clearly not his—folded inflatable paddleboards, bags of equipment and “a beautiful stainless-steel navigation spotlight taken from someone’s yacht.” Garrett managed to record part of the confrontation. When asked directly whether he had taken anything from the boat, the stranger snapped, “I didn’t take a damn thing from your boat.”

Then the chase began. The suspect headed north, while Garrett followed in a smaller boat and simultaneously called the Coast Guard. The Coast Guard joined the pursuit. According to Garrett, once they were in open water in the middle of the bay, the man pulled out a knife and displayed it to those chasing him. Near the entrance to Elliott Bay Marina, just before reaching it, the man suddenly veered away, ran his inflatable boat onto the rocks, jumped out and disappeared into the woods.

Garrett believes he saw the same person in the same inflatable vessel the previous night, circling the bay. At the time, he paid no attention and even assumed the stranger was a neighbor checking on other boats. He recognized him only the next day, when he found him above his own cabin. After photos were posted on social media, the owner began receiving messages from other boaters who said they had encountered the man in various areas as well. The Seattle Police Department’s harbor patrol unit is now investigating.

Several layers are important in this story. Inflatable SUPs—short for stand-up paddleboards—are inflatable boards used for paddleboarding while standing, popular and relatively expensive equipment that is easy to transport and easy to steal. The U.S. Coast Guard is a federal agency responsible, among other things, for safety on the water and law enforcement in coastal areas, but local harbor police generally investigate individual thefts on the water. Elliott Bay Marina is a large facility for privately owned vessels in Seattle, while Fauntleroy Cove is a quiet residential area on the city’s western shore where many people keep boats at docks.

The key issue here is not only the thief’s boldness but also the environment in which everything happened. Docks and marinas are essentially private homes on the water, lining areas accessible to the public. A neighbor spotted the stranger and alerted the owner—that informal network of mutual vigilance is what worked. Garrett did not wait for police; he pursued the suspect, producing both a result—the suspect was driven out of the area—and a serious risk. Chasing an armed person on the water could have ended much worse. The quote “His boat was loaded with gear” and the knife incident suggest that the man was not a random drifter but an experienced waterborne thief who had been collecting property from several vessels during a single outing.

It is also significant that messages from other victims began arriving after the photos were posted online. This is a typical pattern in serial thefts on the water: crimes are scattered, police become involved later, and informal networks of boat owners often piece the picture together. The incident reported by KIRO 7 News Seattle is not simply a crime story. It is a reminder that the waters of Puget Sound remain an area where private property is protected largely by neighbors’ vigilance rather than patrols.

Scott McClellan and his memories of 9/11: An inside view of the White House

When people discuss the tragedy of September 11, 2001, they usually hear the voices of politicians, survivors or relatives of those who died. But there is another category of witness: people who were near the nation’s leaders and saw how decisions were made that changed the course of history. Scott McClellan, a former White House press secretary under George W. Bush who now lives in the Seattle area, is one of them. His memories, published in a KOMO News report, offer a unique account of how the tragedy was experienced at the center of power.

McClellan was in the very room where President George W. Bush learned about the attacks while reading to children at a Florida school. The moment became one of the most widely reproduced and symbolic images in modern history: the president smiling at children, then suddenly growing solemn when chief of staff Andrew Card whispered in his ear, “A second plane has hit the World Trade Center. America is under attack.” McClellan, standing only a few yards from Bush, later described how the president tried to maintain his composure in front of the children and teachers for several minutes, even as determination was already visible in his eyes. The detail matters because it shows that decisions about the war on terror began not in Washington but in that classroom, where children’s voices were still being heard.

For those who do not remember or did not live through those events, several key terms often found in coverage of them are worth explaining. “Flight 93” was the fourth plane hijacked by terrorists. According to the 9/11 Commission, it crashed in Pennsylvania after passengers attempted to retake it from the hijackers. It never reached its likely target, possibly the Capitol or the White House. The Pentagon is the headquarters of the U.S. Department of Defense, which was struck by the third plane. The World Trade Center was the complex of skyscrapers in New York where thousands of people died. These three locations—New York, Pennsylvania and Washington—became focal points of national trauma, and mentioning them still evokes a mixture of grief, anger and unity among Americans.

McClellan’s memories are important not only as a historical document but also as political testimony. He was one of the youngest and most loyal press secretaries in White House history, but after leaving office he wrote a book criticizing the Bush administration for using the tragedy to justify the war in Iraq. This creates an interesting paradox: someone who was part of the president’s inner circle during the attacks and supported his course later became one of his most outspoken critics. In interviews like the one cited by KOMO, however, he generally avoids harsh judgments and focuses on human details—how White House staff evacuated, tried to contact their families and spent hours unable to grasp the scale of what was happening.

The central insight of the report is that, even more than two decades later, September 11 cannot be viewed solely through the lens of politics or geopolitics. It is also the personal memory of thousands of people, each of whom experienced that day differently. McClellan, a native of Texas who now lives in Seattle, embodies an “American arc”: from the conservative South to the liberal Northwest, from White House service to private life. His account is valuable because it reminds us that behind every historic decision are real people who, in the midst of a catastrophe, do not know how events will end and act on the basis of limited information and their own understanding of duty.

Thus, even a brief item about Scott McClellan’s appearance or interview is more than an anniversary publication. It is a reminder that the tragedy of September 11 continues to shape American society, the politics of remembrance and the personal lives of those caught at the center of events. The voices of witnesses like McClellan matter because they allow us to see, behind official reports and news footage, the living fabric of history—with its doubts, fears and unexpected turns.

A.J. Brown’s injury exposes the fragility of Patriots’ hopes

The New England Patriots opened the season with a 13–10 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, but more painful than the result itself was the loss of their biggest offseason acquisition, wide receiver A.J. Brown. According to the Associated Press report published by sports.mynorthwest.com, the 29-year-old receiver was placed on injured reserve because of a right ankle injury and will miss at least four weeks. This is not simply the loss of one player—it is a blow to the entire offensive structure the Patriots built around Brown after Stefon Diggs’ departure.

The nature of the injury makes the situation even more concerning for New England. According to an AP source, an MRI confirmed a high ankle sprain, meaning damage to the ligaments in the upper part of the ankle. This type of injury is notoriously difficult: it takes longer to heal than a standard sprain, often requires more recovery time and increases the risk of reinjury if a player returns too quickly. The mechanism of the injury is also revealing. Brown fell to the turf while attempting to catch an inaccurate pass from Drake Maye, and Seahawks cornerback Nehemiah Pritchett’s knee pinned his ankle to the ground. This was not a purely contact-related injury but the result of an unfortunate chain of events, underscoring how random a season-ending blow can be.

Before getting hurt, Brown had made three catches for 26 yards—modest numbers that do not reflect his actual role in the scheme. The Patriots gave up assets for him in June, expecting the three-time Pro Bowler to become Maye’s primary option and a safety net for the young quarterback. Now offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels must improvise. His comment on WEEI radio captured the problem precisely: “There’s nobody on our roster that can replace somebody like A.J. in the middle of a game or over the course of a season.” This was not routine politeness but an acknowledgment of a shortage of personnel.

The lack of depth at the position is particularly troubling. The Patriots signed Romeo Doubs as a free agent, but against Seattle he had no catches on three targets and dropped a critical pass on second down from the 14-yard line that could have produced a first down. The trade that sent Kayshon Boutte to Houston during training camp removed another potential option. McDaniels must now find production from Doubs, Mack Hollins, DeMario Douglas and Kyle Williams—players who collectively cannot replace Brown.

It is important to understand what a high ankle sprain means in practice. Unlike a standard sprain, which affects the ligaments on the outside of the ankle, this injury involves the syndesmosis, a group of ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula. The syndesmosis helps stabilize the lower leg during running and sudden changes of direction. For a receiver whose job depends on speed, sharp cuts and the ability to create separation from defenders, the injury is especially dangerous. Returning too early risks not only reduced effectiveness but also chronic instability and repeat injuries, which could have long-term career consequences.

It is telling that the Patriots have not rushed to issue an official statement—both AP sources spoke on condition of anonymity. That creates an information vacuum, which in the NFL usually means the team is weighing its options and does not want to show its hand before facing Pittsburgh on September 20 in its home opener. This is not Brown’s first warning sign. After playing 17 games in each of his two seasons with Philadelphia, he missed four games during the 2024 championship season and two more in 2025. His legendary durability is beginning to show cracks, a worrying signal at age 29 for a player whose contract and reputation are built on being a reliable No. 1 option.

The context is also significant. Brown’s injury is not an isolated case. After only two games, the NFL was already dealing with a wave of high-profile injuries, and the Patriots were among the first teams caught in it. Right tackle Morgan Moses offered a phrase after the game that became a locker-room mantra: “We don’t blink. It’s always the next-man-up mentality.” It sounds convincing, but the reality is that none of the receivers currently on the roster can truly be the “next man” at the No. 1 position—and even McDaniels acknowledges that.

Practically speaking, the next four weeks will be a stress test for Drake Maye. The young quarterback is losing his most reliable target in critical situations, and opposing defenses no longer need to devote extra resources to double-covering Brown. That will create more opportunities for Hollins and Douglas, while also increasing the pressure on Maye, who will have to develop faster than planned. If the Patriots’ offense falters in the coming games, talk that the team moved too quickly to acquire Brown will flare up again—even though the injury has nothing to do with the front office’s decision.

The main conclusion is simple: the Patriots built their offense around one player, and that player is out indefinitely with an injury prone to recurrence. Four weeks is a minimum, not a guaranteed return date. In the NFL, where every game can determine a season’s fate, losing Brown is not merely a personnel problem but an existential challenge for a team trying to move beyond the post-Brady era. The answer will have to come not in training camp but in real games, beginning with Pittsburgh on September 20.

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Washington state allocates $7.45 million for fire and flood recovery

The Washington State Public Works Board approved $7.45 million in grants and loans for emergency infrastructure repairs in Chelan, Franklin, Grays Harbor, King, Lewis, Spokane and Walla Walla counties. The funds will support the restoration of public facilities, roads, sewer systems and bridges damaged by fires and extensive flooding. Board Chair Vince McGowan said public infrastructure is the foundation of every community and that rapid assistance should speed recovery.

In Spokane, a $1 million loan will go toward repairing the Northside Landfill, where the Old Trails fire damaged the electrical system and about three-quarters of the vegetation cover. Connell will receive a $612,000 loan and a $108,000 grant to restore its wastewater treatment facility, while Waitsburg will receive a $255,000 loan and a $45,000 grant to replace a failed sewer pipe essential to the city’s entire system.

Another $5.45 million will go to four communities affected by a powerful atmospheric river in December. Kent and Hoquiam will each receive $2 million to repair flooded sections of roads; Chelan County will receive $750,000 to restore a 120-meter section of Company Creek Road destroyed by the Stehekin River; and Chehalis will receive $700,000 to repair and reopen the Exhibitor Avenue bridge, which was closed because of safety concerns. The funds for the eastern counties came from the board’s emergency reserve, while aid for the communities affected by flooding came from a $10 million special appropriation by the state Legislature.

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Based on: WA doles out millions of dollars for flood- and fire-related repairs

Seattle’s Benaroya Hall Opens Renovated Spaces

Benaroya Hall in downtown Seattle is completing its largest renovation since opening in 1998. The $20 million project, carried out as part of the Amplify campaign, is intended to transform the building from a venue primarily for Seattle Symphony performances into a public space open throughout the day.

Located near Pike Place Market, the central business district, public transit stops and major pedestrian routes, Benaroya Hall is accessible not only to concertgoers. The renovated areas will be available to nearby office workers, tourists, local residents and people waiting for transportation. The hall is thus intended to become part of the city’s everyday life rather than an isolated cultural institution.

After the renovation, visitors will be able to work and meet in the Boeing Company Gallery, buy coffee, breakfast and lunch at the modernized café, and explore exhibitions by local artists. The Overlook Lounge, offering views of downtown, has been added on the promenade level, along with more than 480 new seats throughout the building. The gallery will be open on weekdays from morning through evening, regardless of the concert schedule.

The renovation covered approximately 42,500 square feet and was funded largely by foundations and private donors, including the Gates Foundation, Norcliffe Foundation, Friday Foundation, and the family of artists Dale and Leslie Jackson Chihuly. Architecture firm Mithun and contractor Sellen Construction redesigned the entrances, main lobby and wayfinding system to make it easier for visitors to navigate the building and linger there after performances.

The design is inspired by the “geometry of music”: interiors feature flowing lines reminiscent of melodic phrases, rhythmic geometric elements and warm wood tones associated with classical instruments. The former box office has been converted into a multifunctional community room for educational programs and more comfortable viewing for people with heightened sensory sensitivities.

The menu, created with chef Ethan Stowell and Sodexo Live!, features dishes from the U.S. Northwest, including a Dungeness crab salad, Beecher’s grilled cheese and focaccia pizza. These offerings highlight the region’s culinary culture: Dungeness crab is harvested along the Pacific coast, while Beecher’s cheese is made in Seattle, near Pike Place Market. Seafood, local dairy products, apples and berries reflect the cuisine’s connection to the natural resources of the Pacific Northwest, its temperate climate and its tradition of farmers markets.

The public will get its first look at the renovated spaces during the season opening on Sept. 19, when conductor Xian Zhang, the Seattle Symphony and pianist Yuja Wang will perform works by Sergei Prokofiev. In addition, Benaroya Hall will host a free, all-day open house on Oct. 18 featuring an exhibition by Arte Noir, a performance by the Seattle Repertory Jazz Orchestra, a National Geographic Live presentation and a concert by orchestra musicians with the band The Head and the Heart. Hall leaders hope the renovated venue will attract new listeners and become a regular gathering place for city residents.

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Based on: Seattle’s Benaroya Hall to debut $20M in renovations with season opener

Seattle Mayor Proposes Reducing the City’s Dependence on the Tech Industry

After the pandemic, Seattle has experienced a noticeable decline in its former appeal. More than a third of downtown office buildings are vacant, while companies are moving some operations to nearby Bellevue and other cities, including Nashville, where the tax and regulatory environment is seen as more favorable. City officials are also facing criticism over tax policy, public-safety problems and strained relations with business.

A 129-page report released by Mayor Katie Wilson warns that Seattle’s heavy reliance on the technology sector could have serious consequences. Artificial intelligence and other changes are already transforming the tech labor market, while a potential loss of workers, companies and professional expertise would be extremely difficult to offset.

The concentration of tax revenue is a particular concern. About three-quarters of the JumpStart tax, which applies to large employers with highly paid employees, is paid by just 10 companies. This city payroll tax applies to businesses with high gross revenue, with the rate determined by average pay: the higher the wages, the greater the tax. The revenue is used in part for affordable housing, homelessness assistance and economic recovery.

The main burden falls on tech giants because they combine high revenues, thousands of highly paid workers and substantial payrolls. As a result, layoffs, the relocation of jobs or weaker financial performance at one or two companies could have a significant impact on the city budget.

In response, Wilson announced measures to diversify the economy. The city plans to create a task force made up of representatives from business, labor unions and other organizations, as well as a strategic initiatives fund to support innovation in fields such as clean energy and advanced manufacturing. The mayor’s office intends to streamline permitting so companies can open and expand more easily. However, the task force’s membership, the size of the fund and its sources of financing have not yet been determined.

The report says Seattle’s economy is 42% more exposed than the national average to risks associated with the adoption of AI. High local taxes could make it even harder to attract employers, professionals and entrepreneurs, particularly amid competition from Bellevue.

Bellevue is located in the same Puget Sound technology region, has well-developed infrastructure, access to skilled workers and is close to Seattle. At the same time, the city has no full equivalent of Seattle’s JumpStart payroll tax. Instead, it relies on the statewide business and occupation, or B&O, tax, while local fees and regulations are viewed in some cases as more moderate and predictable. Bellevue is also actively expanding office and residential construction. Its advantage does not lie in lower costs — real estate and labor remain expensive there — but in the combination of proximity to the talent pool, infrastructure and a more stable business environment.

Amazon offers a telling example: from 2020 to 2024, the company increased its Bellevue workforce by nearly 12,000 employees, while its Seattle headcount fell by roughly 10,000.

The mayor’s initiatives face political tensions. Business groups are calling for lower taxes and improved public safety, while Wilson’s progressive supporters consider tax revenue essential to funding housing and social programs. More than 30 employers, including Costco and Starbucks, have already urged the mayor to take stronger action on safety problems.

Wilson acknowledges that the tax burden can encourage companies to move jobs elsewhere, but she has not yet promised to reduce it. Business representatives will be watching the city budget closely: new or higher taxes could undermine confidence in the economic recovery plan and intensify competition from Bellevue.

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Based on: Seattle mayor wants to diversify the city’s tech-dependent economy

Major road restrictions ahead for Seattle drivers

Five highway locations in the Seattle area will have reduced capacity this weekend because of construction. The biggest source of congestion will be the closure of the express lanes on the lower deck of the I-5 Ship Canal Bridge, with traffic restricted from 11 p.m. Friday until 5 a.m. Monday. Crews will install drainage pipes and utility vaults, and drivers will be unable to use the express lanes to bypass work on the two northbound lanes of the upper deck, which will continue through December as part of the Revive I-5 project. Congestion is expected to begin as far south as Beacon Hill. Planned restrictions on I-90 in Bellevue and overnight slowdowns on I-405 in Bothell have been postponed because of rain. Meanwhile, the eastbound Highway 520 exit to Montlake Boulevard will close for about a week to prepare for demolition of the old ramp, while in Kirkland, Northeast 85th Street and the I-405 ramps will be closed for the weekend. On the First Avenue South Bridge, the northbound direction and the high-occupancy vehicle lane will be restricted in alternating periods Saturday and Sunday.

In addition, westbound I-90 between Mercer Island and Seattle will be fully closed from 10 p.m. Friday until 6 a.m. Saturday for scheduled maintenance in the Mount Baker Tunnel. On Sunday, a new two-mile section of Highway 167 in Fife, between Highway 509 and I-5, will open; tolls will begin in December. Public transit will continue operating as usual, including Sound Transit light-rail trains across Lake Washington and between downtown Seattle and Lynnwood. The transit agency is also preparing for an influx of fans attending the Washington Huskies’ game against Utah State and is working to prevent a repeat of the recent train stoppage after the Apple Cup, which preliminary assessments attributed to a mechanical failure.

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Based on: Seattle losing highway lanes this weekend; Bellevue gets reprieve

Seattle Council Demands Mayor Explain Police Chief’s Dismissal

As Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson tries to move past the political scandal that erupted after the deadly shooting at the Bite of Seattle festival, some City Council members are bringing the issue into the public spotlight and continuing to demand answers about the police chief’s firing.

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Based on: Seattle council member still wants Wilson to explain police chief’s dismissal

Seattle Safety: Businesses Demand Action as City Responds to Tragedy

Seattle’s business elite is demanding decisive safety measures from the mayor as polls show residents’ distrust—and a downtown fight claims the life of an elderly man.

Seattle Between Reports and Anxiety: Mayor Wilson Responds to Business, but Poll Numbers Speak for Themselves

When more than 30 executives from the region’s largest companies—from Microsoft and Costco to the Seattle Mariners and Alaska Air Group—sign a joint letter to the mayor and City Council, it is no ordinary petition. It signals that the city’s business elite is running out of patience. That is what happened in Seattle, where the business community demanded decisive action on public safety from Mayor Katie Wilson and council members. The letter, published on the Seattle Chamber of Commerce website, amounted to an ultimatum: either the city moves from planning to concrete steps, or the business community will stop believing that municipal authorities are capable of restoring order to the streets.

The mayor’s response was swift. On Thursday afternoon, Wilson issued a statement thanking the business community for its concern while making clear that many of its demands were already being addressed. She said that over the past nine months, the city had increased police presence in several neighborhoods—Rainier Beach, Chinatown–International District, Little Saigon, North Aurora, and Belltown. The city had also made “street-level” investments in Chinatown and allocated resources to Little Saigon. The mayor emphasized that officials were working with residents and business owners to change the built environment and reduce gun violence, had installed barriers along Aurora Avenue, were revising the parking configuration in Belltown, and had more than doubled the operating hours of crisis-response services. Regarding the shortage of officers, Wilson said that 3,500 police applicants were in the hiring pipeline and that the city was actively searching for a new police chief.

“Seattle is moving forward, step by step,” she wrote. “While any violence is too much violence, it is important to understand that police data show shootings and homicides are at their lowest levels in a decade. And yet there is still too much crime and disorder, and people have every right to be disappointed.” The mayor added that she wanted to see progress “faster and more consistently” and called for joint, transparent work toward a “comfortable, safe, and prosperous Seattle.”

Behind that optimistic facade, however, lies a far more troubling picture revealed by a poll conducted August 17 among registered Seattle voters. According to data cited in the business leaders’ letter, only 34% of respondents were confident that the city had an effective public-safety plan. At the same time, an overwhelming majority supported specific measures but remained skeptical about City Hall’s ability to implement them. “Voters are demanding action, with timelines and measurable results,” the letter states. The gap between residents’ expectations and their lack of faith in the government’s effectiveness is perhaps the clearest indicator of the current state of city administration.

What exactly are the signatories demanding? The list is extensive: increased investment in public safety, the launch of a closed-circuit television (CCTV) system, development of a clear action plan, reduced response times for 911 calls, arrests of illegal-drug users who repeatedly refuse treatment and shelter, and a ban on homeless encampments within 250 feet of parks and playgrounds. The business community insists that the mayor and council incorporate these priorities into the city budget. “A credible public-safety plan and a budget that protects the investments behind it are inseparable,” the letter emphasizes. “Seattle voters have made clear that they expect both. We are ready to be partners.”

The letter was signed not only by Microsoft, Costco, the Mariners, and Alaska Air, but also by Zillow Group, Puget Sound Energy, Weyerhaeuser, Starbucks, Nordstrom, T-Mobile, Vulcan Real Estate, Russell Investments, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Kaiser Permanente, as well as the Seattle Chamber of Commerce, Challenge Seattle, Washington Roundtable, and dozens of other organizations. This broad coalition—from technology giants to hospitals, venture capital firms, and restaurants—shows that safety is no longer an industry-specific concern but has become a citywide issue.

Particularly revealing was the comment from Anthony Anton, president and CEO of the Washington Hospitality Association. In an interview with KIRO Newsradio, he said the city had performed exceptionally well during the World Cup but had since begun to lose ground. “We set ourselves at such a high global level, and it seems like we’re starting to slip backward again,” he said. “The safety of our employees and guests truly affects the people we care about and the city’s economic condition.” His words are not an abstract complaint but a reflection of a very specific fear: Seattle risks losing a reputation it worked so hard to build.

Against this backdrop, a political conflict is also unfolding between the mayor and City Council. Next week, the council plans to vote on a resolution to reduce gun violence, which Wilson called “grandstanding and political theater” in an interview with KUOW. The resolution’s author, Councilmember Maritza Rivera, responded to KIRO Newsradio: “I’m disappointed that it took her this long to say what her response will be and what she intends to do about all the shootings we’ve seen in the city.” Her measure calls on the city to work with national experts who have helped reduce violence in other cities. Wilson, for her part, has promised to present her own strategy for combating gun violence and an update on shelter expansion next week.

Several points require clarification. By “changes to the built environment,” the mayor does not mean merely cosmetic improvements, but urban-planning measures that criminologists believe can reduce crime: better lighting, transparent storefronts, and the removal of secluded corners and abandoned spaces. The concept of “crisis-care responders” refers to civilian mental-health and crisis specialists who respond to calls instead of, or alongside, police; increasing their hours is an attempt to relieve officers of duties outside their core role. As for the 3,500 police applications, the number may sound impressive, but it does not guarantee that all applicants will pass the screening and training process—or, more importantly, that the city will be able to retain them.

The central paradox in Seattle is that both sides—the mayor and the business community—cite data but interpret it differently. Wilson points to homicides and shootings falling to their lowest levels in a decade, and that is probably true. But the poll shows that 66% of voters do not believe the city’s plan is effective, while business leaders are calling for faster action. This is a classic gap between statistics and perception: people may feel unsafe even when serious crime is formally declining, particularly when everyday experience is shaped by minor offenses, open drug use, and homeless encampments.

Another important factor is the budget. The business community directly links the safety plan to funding, implying that without money, any strategy will remain on paper. This raises the question: is the council prepared to reallocate funds, and is the mayor willing to support the measures the business community considers priorities, even if they conflict with her own agenda? For now, with Wilson calling the council resolution “political theater” and Rivera accusing the mayor of moving too slowly, it appears that city leaders are spending more energy on internal disputes than on solving the problem.

In the final analysis, Seattle’s largest employers—whose taxes and jobs are essential to the city’s prosperity—have publicly expressed a lack of confidence in the municipal government. The mayor has responded in a conciliatory tone, listing what has already been done, but the public-opinion poll weakens her argument. Next week, Wilson will present her strategy for combating gun violence, and it will be a moment of truth: either she will offer a concrete, funded, and measurable plan acceptable to both businesses and voters, or the conflict with the council and business community will deepen. Like many American cities, Seattle finds itself caught between progressive reforms and demands for order. How it escapes that trap will be closely watched far beyond Washington State.

Downtown Seattle Tragedy: Westlake Park Fight Ends in the Death of an Elderly Man

At the heart of Seattle, a tragedy in Westlake Park has once again raised questions about safety in public spaces and how quickly a chance argument can lead to irreversible consequences. A 67-year-old man died Thursday morning after a fight with a younger opponent. The incident, captured by a surveillance camera, is under investigation, and its circumstances are causing concern among local residents and law-enforcement officials.

According to information published in a KIRO 7 news report, a witness called 911 at about 6:45 a.m. to report a fight between two men. The caller said that one of the participants was shouting and calling for help. While officers were on their way, the same witness noticed that one of the men had stopped moving. When police arrived at the park, they found the 67-year-old man without a pulse. Despite immediate resuscitation efforts, Seattle Fire Department medics pronounced him dead. The second participant, a 39-year-old man, was quickly located and taken into custody.

A surveillance-camera recording from nearby has become a key element of the investigation. Detectives say the footage will be crucial to establishing exactly what happened. It remains unclear what caused the confrontation and which actions led to the fatal outcome, but the existence of video could significantly affect the course of the case. Seattle police are asking anyone with additional information to contact them at (206) 233-5000.

This case is more than a crime report. It highlights several important aspects of urban life. First, violence in public spaces can occur at any time of day, even early in the morning. Westlake Park is a popular downtown location, making the incident there particularly concerning. Second, the age difference between the participants—67 and 39—may point to an imbalance of strength, making questions about self-defense and the limits of permissible force especially pressing. Third, the suspect’s quick arrest demonstrates the police response, but also underscores the fact that the tragedy had already occurred.

For the local community, the event is a reminder of the fragility of human life and the need to remain attentive to what is happening around us. For law enforcement, it is another test of the ability to investigate quickly and objectively when witness accounts and video footage may conflict. Finally, for the city as a whole, it is an opportunity to consider which violence-prevention measures are working and which need to be reconsidered.

As the investigation continues, many details remain unknown: what exactly happened between the men, whether they had a history of conflicts, and what injuries the victim sustained. Answers will emerge after investigators review camera footage and the results of the medical examiner’s examination. But it is already clear that this incident will not become merely another line in a statistical report—it touches on the real fears and expectations of residents who want to feel safe in public spaces.

Death in Downtown Seattle: What Lies Behind the Westlake Park Tragedy

Early one morning in the heart of Seattle, a tragedy in Westlake Park once again prompted residents to discuss safety downtown. A 67-year-old man died after a fight with another person, and police are now trying to reconstruct what happened using witness accounts and camera footage. This incident is more than a crime brief; it is another signal that the atmosphere in Seattle’s central neighborhoods remains tense and that authorities are being forced to respond to public concerns.

According to the Seattle Police Department, at about 6:45 a.m., a witness near the park called 911 and reported that two men were fighting and that one of them was screaming for help. While officers were en route, the caller noticed that the 67-year-old man had stopped moving. Responding officers found him without a pulse and began resuscitation efforts, but arriving medics pronounced him dead. The second participant, a 39-year-old man, was located and detained. Cameras operated by the Real Time Crime Center nearby captured the incident; SPD considers the footage “key” to the investigation. Homicide detectives and crime-scene specialists worked at the scene and must now establish all the circumstances leading up to the man’s death.

The incident is particularly troubling against the backdrop of a recent wave of violence in the city. Police have openly acknowledged the community’s concerns and promised an increased presence: uniformed officers will patrol the West Precinct, including downtown and Belltown, in cars and on bicycles. This “high visibility” is intended not only to reassure residents but also to prevent further incidents. Anyone with information is asked to call (206) 233-5000. For readers unfamiliar with the American system, the West Precinct is one of Seattle’s five police precincts and is responsible for the central part of the city. The Real Time Crime Center is a monitoring hub that analyzes camera data in real time and helps detectives respond to crimes more quickly. Westlake Park, where the incident occurred, is a small green space in the business district, near shopping areas and transit stops; it is usually busy in the morning, which is why the fight and cries for help were noticed almost immediately.

The key point is that the death did not result from a knife or firearm, but from a fight—underscoring the vulnerability of older people and the unpredictability of street confrontations. The detained man is 39, and investigators must now determine his motives and degree of responsibility. It is also significant that cameras captured the incident: in an era when the public demands transparency, such footage can become decisive evidence. Finally, SPD’s response—increased patrols—shows that the city views what happened as part of a broader problem rather than an isolated episode. For Seattle residents, this means there will be more police downtown in the near future, but it remains an open question whether the overall crime situation will change. For now, one thing is clear: a morning argument in a park claimed a man’s life and once again reminded the city of the fragility of urban safety.

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26th District House race will test the area’s political shift

The upcoming contest for a vacant Washington state House seat representing the 26th Legislative District could affect Democrats’ ability to expand their already substantial majority in Olympia. At the same time, the election will show how much the political preferences of this historically competitive district have changed.

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Based on: WA’s 26th Legislative District House race tests its political shift

Seattle at a Crossroads: Scandals and Economic Challenges

Seattle is facing a crisis of trust and economic uncertainty: a scandal involving the head of the Office for Civil Rights exposes the complexities of understanding workplace harassment, while Mayor Katie Wilson is launching a task force to support businesses amid a “fragile moment” and the city’s dependence on tech giants vulnerable to AI-driven transformation.

When a Work Outing Becomes a Battleground: What Lies Behind the Scandal Involving Seattle’s Civil Rights Chief

A story that may initially seem almost anecdotal actually exposes deep and painful questions about how we understand workplace harassment and where the line lies between a poor managerial decision and a crime. The case involves Derrick Wheeler-Smith, director of Seattle’s Office for Civil Rights, who was placed on paid administrative leave after an investigation found that he had sexually harassed a subordinate. The allegation is that during a city business trip to Alabama in 2023, Wheeler-Smith accompanied his subordinate to a strip club. The employee told investigators that he did not feel able to refuse because Wheeler-Smith was his supervisor. Wheeler-Smith, in turn, says he went only because the employee allegedly said he would not go without him. That detail—who actually persuaded whom—became the starting point for a heated discussion on KIRO Newsradio, where hosts Gee Scott and Angela Poe Russell tried to examine the story not only from a legal perspective but also from a human one.

Gee Scott, co-host of The Gee and Ursula Show, made it clear from the outset that he had serious doubts about this version of events. In his analysis for MyNorthwest, he stated directly that sexual harassment is unacceptable in any setting, regardless of the participants’ gender, especially when the workplace is involved. But he then added what became the refrain of the entire discussion: “It doesn’t smell right. This story just doesn’t smell right.” He said that in fifty years of life, he had never seen anyone forced to go to a strip club. He agreed that a supervisor going to a strip club with a subordinate was wrong and unprofessional, but in his view, inappropriate behavior was not automatically sexual harassment. Gee also pointed to what he saw as a troubling pattern: too many disputes involving Seattle city departments ended with talk of lawsuits. “Is it just me, or is everybody begging for a damn lawsuit?” he asked rhetorically, suggesting that some complaints might be motivated less by a desire to protect one’s rights than by the pursuit of financial gain.

His colleague, Angela Poe Russell, initially supported that line of reasoning, observing that the situation looked as though someone had been caught on a technicality. She emphasized that she took sexual harassment seriously and disliked seeing a tool created to protect people used for personal or political purposes. But then she asked a question that shifted the course of the discussion: “If a woman said she felt pressured and had to go, would that change anything for you?” Gee Scott did not evade the question and admitted that she had caught him in a double standard. He honestly said that even if the story still seemed suspicious to him, he would not have admitted that on the air, but he had to agree that his judgment was based solely on personal experience. The fact that he had never seen a man forced to go to a strip club did not mean that such a thing never happened. This became a crucial moment because it showed how easily personal experience can become bias when gender roles and power dynamics are involved.

The hosts then moved from the specific case to a broader topic: workplace communication culture and the risks associated with informal events, office parties, and business trips. Angela offered unequivocal advice: do not drink alcohol with colleagues, because intoxicated people say things they later regret. Gee went even further, arguing that in light of endless lawsuits and complaints, after-work happy hours should perhaps be banned altogether, and that conversations about acceptable boundaries needed to be reconsidered from the ground up. He recalled advice from his late father, who had warned him even before the #MeToo movement: “Never try to date a woman at work.” Gee did not understand the meaning of those words at the time, but now considers them prophetic. He warned that the illusion of confidentiality in informal settings was dangerous: alcohol creates a false sense that something said outside the office will not return to the workplace, but people love gossip—both those who listen to it and those who spread it.

To clarify the issue, several points are worth explaining. In U.S. employment law, the term “sexual harassment” covers not only direct sexual advances but also the creation of a hostile work environment and situations in which a subordinate feels unable to refuse an unwanted activity because of fear of losing their job or damaging their relationship with management. That is the basis of the allegation against Wheeler-Smith: no one physically forced the employee to go to the club, but the power imbalance made refusal practically impossible. “Paid administrative leave” means that a person has been temporarily removed from their position while continuing to receive a salary during the investigation. Seattle officials promised an update in October, so the story is far from over.

The main conclusion from the scandal and its discussion on the air is that the line between inappropriate behavior and a legal violation is often determined not only by the action itself but also by the power dynamics, intentions, and subjective experience of the person in a vulnerable position. Gee Scott, who began by doubting the credibility of the allegation, ultimately acknowledged the limitations of his own perspective. That admission was perhaps the most honest moment of the entire discussion. It serves as a reminder that even experienced people who are confident in their own judgment may fail to notice when their personal ideas about what is normal quietly replace an objective assessment. Behind the catchy phrase about the story not “smelling right” lies a much more complicated question: who gets to decide what constitutes harassment, and why—and what is merely a bad decision made by adults after a couple of drinks?

Seattle Searches for a New Economic Foundation: Mayor Launches Task Force Amid a “Fragile Moment”

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson has announced the creation of a special task force intended to help businesses “open, stay and grow” in the city. The move comes amid troubling economic conditions: technology companies are cutting staff, offices sit empty, storefronts are boarded up, and business activity is gradually shifting to Bellevue and other suburbs. Wilson has directly described the current situation as a “fragile moment” and signed an executive order launching a yearlong process to develop recommendations. Yet questions are already mounting around the initiative, from its funding sources to the possibility of higher taxes on businesses.

The order directs the task force to propose measures to strengthen the city’s economy and build what the mayor calls “a resilient Seattle economy.” According to Wilson, the city can no longer take rapid growth for granted and must seek new paths through collective effort. The plan is expected to take roughly a year, but its cost and funding sources remain unclear. It is also possible that businesses themselves will have to bear part of the expense. When a KOMO News reporter tried to ask the mayor about possible new or higher taxes on businesses, staff members led her away, citing a lack of time. That detail speaks volumes about how sensitive the tax issue is under current conditions.

The context is genuinely difficult. An independent economic assessment conducted by the consulting organization Formation called Seattle a “superstar innovation hub” while simultaneously expressing doubts about the city’s readiness to take advantage of its strengths. Ryan Donahue of Formation put it this way: Seattle is “economically much better positioned for the medium term than I think most people realize, and institutionally less well equipped to take advantage of this moment.” In his view, growth cannot rely solely on attracting highly paid workers from elsewhere, as that only drives housing costs higher. “But the math ultimately only works if this is accompanied by real efforts to include Seattle’s workers and entrepreneurs in the industries driving the next wave of growth,” Donahue emphasized. This point is essential to understanding the problem: it is not enough for the city to remain attractive to outside talent; it must also create pathways for its own residents.

The initiative includes several specific areas of focus. City departments are expected to coordinate more closely to help businesses by speeding up permits, reducing barriers for startups, filling vacant commercial spaces, expanding housing construction, and improving access to child care. Wilson also directed the Office of Economic Development (OED) to develop a plan for a strategic investment fund that would provide flexible capital to support businesses in key industries. “This part of the order directs OED to plan a strategic initiatives fund. It will be intended to deploy flexible capital in support of businesses in key industries,” the mayor said. However, with the city facing a projected budget shortfall of $175 million by 2027, any discussion of new funds inevitably raises the question: where will the money come from?

John Schoales, head of the Downtown Seattle Association, which represents more than 600 businesses and nonprofit organizations, attempted to answer that question. He offered a more critical assessment, calling the city’s economy sluggish. Asked about possible new taxes, Schoales was direct: “I think more taxes means fewer jobs in Seattle, and that’s what we’ve seen over the last six or seven years. That’s why we’re losing to Bellevue in many respects.” At the same time, he thanked the mayor for her leadership and called the initiative a good beginning: “I think this is a positive first step. There’s a lot of work ahead, but we seem to have recognized the reality we’re facing in Seattle today, which is that we’ve plateaued in terms of job growth. And we have a city government saying it wants to do something about it, so we have to take them at their word and engage with them.”

The task force will begin meeting next month. Its first recommendations are due to the mayor in February, with final recommendations expected a year later. Beto Yarce, director of the Office of Economic Development and head of the task force, conveyed the mayor’s message: “Seattle is truly open for business.” Wilson added that broader efforts would include reducing homelessness and drug use, as well as improving public safety. These issues are closely intertwined with the economy: without addressing safety and quality-of-life problems downtown, it will be difficult to bring office workers back and revive commercial streets.

Several concepts in this material may require explanation. The term “superstar innovation hub” refers to a city that attracts talent, capital, and companies through the concentration of technology industries and research centers. “Institutionally less well equipped” means in this context that city government, regulation, and infrastructure are not keeping pace with the economy’s potential—for example, permitting bureaucracy or a lack of affordable housing may be slowing growth. A “strategic initiatives fund” is a mechanism through which a city pools resources and distributes them as flexible capital—not strictly according to budget categories, but for specific projects in priority industries. A “$175 million shortfall by 2027” means that city spending will exceed revenue by that amount if nothing changes, meaning any new program will require either cuts elsewhere or new sources of income.

The key insight is that Seattle has become trapped by its own success: growth that seemed unstoppable for decades is now stalling, while the city’s institutions are not prepared to adapt quickly. Technology layoffs, empty offices, and the flow of business to Bellevue are not temporary phenomena but signs of a structural shift. It is telling that even a representative of the business community, while supporting the mayor’s initiative, warns that new taxes will accelerate the loss of jobs. This leaves Wilson with a difficult choice: find money amid a budget shortfall or persuade businesses that investments in resilience will pay off.

Another important theme is the emphasis on inclusive growth. Donahue explicitly says the economy will not hold up if the city relies only on highly paid newcomers. That means the task force will have to think not only about attracting companies but also about training local workers, supporting small businesses, and expanding affordable housing. For now, however, the specifics are limited to broad formulations: speeding up permits, reducing barriers, and filling vacant spaces. How effective these measures will be—and who will pay for them—will not become clear until February, when the first recommendations appear. One thing is already clear: Seattle is entering a period in which its traditional growth model no longer works, and the city must find a new balance among the interests of businesses, residents, and fiscal reality.

Seattle Trapped by Big Tech: What Mayor Katie Wilson Is Proposing

Seattle, a city widely regarded as one of America’s major technology centers, is facing a problem that it once preferred not to discuss openly. A new study of the business climate, commissioned by the administration of former Mayor Bruce Harrell and published Wednesday, depicts an economy that looks successful only at first glance. The report published and covered by KUOW prompted current Mayor Katie Wilson to sign an executive order aimed at reversing the troubling trends. Wilson, who succeeded Harrell, now has to respond to the findings of a document prepared under her predecessor.

The study’s main conclusion sounds like a warning: Seattle is dangerously dependent on a small handful of large companies. This makes the city vulnerable to systemic shocks, and the clearest example of such a shock today is artificial intelligence. The report states that “Seattle is 42% more exposed to AI transformation than the national average.” The concern is that automation and new generative AI tools could displace a significant number of jobs, particularly in software development. Nationally, the number of openings for young developers has already fallen by 20%, while employment among workers aged 22 to 25 in positions the report identifies as “AI-exposed” has dropped by 18%. For Seattle, where software engineering is the backbone of the economy, these figures represent not an abstract threat but a concrete risk.

The concentration of the market makes the problem even more acute. According to the report, just four large firms account for a quarter of all software engineering jobs in Seattle. By comparison, San Francisco has 39 such companies, while San Jose has 18. This structure means the city’s tax base is extremely undiversified. If even one of these companies decides to reduce its workforce or move some operations elsewhere, the consequences for Seattle’s budget could be severe. As the report puts it, “giants fall hard”: the loss of jobs at major technology firms would bring both rising unemployment and a sharp decline in tax revenue.

At the same time, Seattle’s startup culture remains healthy, according to the study’s authors. The problem begins at the next stage. When promising companies reach medium size, they leave the city. The high cost of living contributes to this, although life is even more expensive in San Francisco and San Jose. The real reason is different: venture capital that should be fueling Seattle’s AI startups is flowing to the San Francisco Bay Area, where similar companies are concentrated. According to a recent Redfin study, this helps explain a curious divergence: housing prices are rising in San Francisco while falling in Seattle.

The fiscal side of the issue makes the picture worse. Seattle relies heavily on the JumpStart tax, introduced several years ago specifically for large employers, as well as the business and occupation tax, or B&O tax. This creates a vicious circle: the more the city depends on these revenues, the more closely it is tied to its technology giants—and the more vulnerable it becomes to changes in their hiring policies. The report emphasizes that “Seattle is very heavily dependent, financially and economically, on a few firms,” adding an important nuance: “business taxes in Seattle are not high compared with peer cities, but they have grown quickly, and their structure discourages tech hiring.” In other words, the tax system itself is working against the economic base it is supposed to support.

Mayor Katie Wilson’s response was Executive Order 2026-06, signed immediately after the report was published. Its goal is to retain companies that grew out of local incubators and are ready to move to the next stage. The order directs the Office of Economic Development to propose the creation of a “Financial Development Institution” called the “Seattle Strategic Initiatives Fund.” The fund’s operating mechanisms have not yet been detailed, but it is intended to have the ability to invest directly in startups. The report cites Chicago and New York as models, where public resources have been used to develop priority economic sectors. Wilson and her team are particularly highlighting clean technology as the most promising area for expansion—the study does identify that sector as having significant growth potential.

The mayor’s second strategic priority is lowering the cost of child care. This is not a secondary issue but one of the main factors driving the city’s high cost of living. For growing startups that need to hire more employees, the availability and cost of child care have become real obstacles to expansion. Wilson appears to view this measure as part of economic policy, not merely social policy.

The business community’s response was cautiously positive. John Schoales, CEO of the Downtown Seattle Association, said he was encouraged by the mayor’s attention to the problems facing the city’s businesses. “The current economic performance of Seattle is best described as sluggish,” he said. “Seattle is losing jobs while other cities are experiencing double-digit employment growth.” Schoales stressed the need for regional and national competitiveness and stated his view of fiscal policy in unequivocal terms: “One thing is certain: Seattle does not need new business taxes; we need more businesses in Seattle paying taxes.”

Seattle’s situation is a classic trap of success taken to an extreme. The city built its economy around several giants and has now become hostage to their decisions, technological shifts, and global competition for venture capital. Wilson’s plan, which calls for creating an investment fund and reducing the cost of child care, is an attempt to diversify the economy and retain midsize companies. But the scale of the problem may be too great for executive orders alone. Focusing on clean technology is reasonable, but for Seattle to stop being a city that grows companies for San Francisco, it will need not only financial infrastructure but also a rethink of tax policy, a lower cost of living, and perhaps a change in the mindset of city government itself. For now, the report records a discouraging reality: a city accustomed to seeing itself as an engine of innovation risks running out of fuel.

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Seahawks Win NFL Opener as Murder Reported Downtown

The new NFL season began in Seattle with the Seahawks defeating the Patriots 13–10. Drew Lock replaced the injured Sam Darnold and became the hero of the game, while the Seahawks’ defense recorded three interceptions. That same morning, a fight in Westlake Park downtown ended with the death of a 67-year-old man. Police detained a 39-year-old suspect, and the investigation is ongoing.

Seahawks Defeat Patriots After Losing Darnold: How Drew Lock Saved Seattle in the Season Opener

The new NFL season began in Seattle with a game many had anticipated as a rematch of Super Bowl LX. Although it officially ended with the home team defeating the New England Patriots 13–10, the real drama centered not on the score but on the bench. The game, covered in detail by ESPN, began much as last season ended: the Seahawks’ defense made Drake Maye’s night miserable. This time, however, Sam Darnold suffered a hip injury on the opening possession, Drew Lock took over, and he became the hero of the evening.

Sam Darnold left the field after the very first drive with an injury to his right hip, and the situation initially looked concerning. After the game, head coach Mike Macdonald said the team had received “good news” and that a fracture had apparently been ruled out. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Darnold was taken to Seattle’s Harborview Medical Center for a CT scan. The initial test was encouraging but inconclusive, and an MRI was scheduled for Thursday. While doctors determine the severity of the injury, the Seahawks can at least breathe a sigh of relief because their backup was ready for such a sudden change.

Drew Lock completed 16 of 22 passes for 187 yards and one touchdown, which was probably the best outcome Seattle could have hoped for after he was thrust into the game so unexpectedly. He avoided turnovers, made big throws and was especially effective in the second half. The key play was a 45-yard touchdown pass to Jaxon Smith-Njigba in the fourth quarter, which tied the game. Jason Myers then kicked a field goal to put Seattle ahead, and Mike Macdonald’s defense slammed the door shut: cornerback Josh Jobe intercepted Maye in the end zone while the Patriots were in position for a potential game-tying field goal. It was the Seahawks’ third interception of the evening.

Interestingly, new offensive coordinator Brian Fleury clearly trusted his backup quarterback. On fourth-and-one, he passed on a tush push with tight end A.J. Barner and instead gave Lock the opportunity to throw a touchdown pass to Smith-Njigba. The only thing hurting Seattle was three false-start penalties, which repeatedly put the offense in difficult situations. In the running game, the Seahawks used the expected committee approach. First-round rookie Jadarian Price rushed for 52 yards on 10 attempts and looked explosive, George Holani added 29 yards on eight carries, and Emanuel Wilson gained three yards on two attempts. That workload distribution will likely remain in place for at least the first four games while Zach Charbonnet begins the season on the physically unable to perform list.

The defense’s most unexpected hero was cornerback Nehemiah Pritchett. His fourth-quarter interception off a deflected pass gave the Seahawks possession, which ended with the game-tying touchdown. He also broke up an earlier pass. The third-year player serves as the team’s third cornerback, a position that was considered the defense’s biggest question mark entering the season after Seattle allowed the fewest points in the league last year. Trevon Diggs and potentially Terrion Arnold, who is on the commissioner’s exempt list, will compete with him, but performances like this one will help Pritchett hold on to his place in the lineup.

If the evening went well for Seattle, it became a nightmare for New England. In the third quarter, top receiver A.J. Brown left the game with a right ankle injury, depriving Drake Maye of his primary option and creating uncertainty over how long the team might be without him. Maye felt the loss acutely. The Patriots led 10–0 but squandered that advantage and eventually lost, largely because of his two second-half interceptions and a third that sealed the game.

The first interception came when Maye threw deep to Romeo Doubs, giving the receiver a chance to win a contested catch — a skill he had shown during training camp. Doubs then suffered an expensive drop on a pass that could have produced a first down, and immediately afterward Maye threw his second interception while looking for Pop Douglas over the middle on third-and-14. The Seahawks scored on both ensuing possessions — a touchdown and a field goal — before ending the game with the final interception. This was an unusual setback for Maye. Throughout last season, including the playoffs, he had only one game with two interceptions: the Super Bowl against the Seahawks. Notably, the Patriots played conservatively in the first half. According to ESPN analytics, only one of Maye’s passes traveled more than 10 air yards, while his other 11 throws totaled just 15 air yards. That approach may have been intended partly to protect the offensive line. However, both second-half interceptions came on deep throws.

The evening’s most disappointing player was Romeo Doubs. The Patriots signed the former Green Bay receiver to a four-year, $68 million contract in free agency during the offseason, and he became involved in two critical moments that hurt the team: Maye’s first interception and the drop that preceded the second. Doubs was expected to provide reliability, particularly after Brown left with an ankle injury early in the third quarter, but he did not deliver it. One interesting statistic: rookie tight end Eli Raridon, who opened the scoring with a two-yard touchdown reception from Maye, did not score a touchdown in 12 games for Notre Dame last season.

The Seahawks will travel to face the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, September 20, while the Patriots will host the Pittsburgh Steelers on the same day. Seattle’s main questions concern Darnold’s health and how consistently Lock can perform if the starting quarterback’s injury proves serious. New England’s biggest questions are how quickly A.J. Brown will return and whether Maye can handle the pressure without his primary offensive target. Perhaps the evening’s biggest lesson was this: in the NFL, a season can be turned upside down in a single drive, and the team best prepared for the unexpected is usually the one that wins games like this.

Morning Fight Downtown Ends in Death as Police Investigate Westlake Park Homicide

A tragedy occurred in downtown Seattle, in one of the city’s busiest and most tourist-heavy areas, once again raising questions about street safety in the metropolis. On Thursday morning, two men got into a confrontation in Westlake Park, at the intersection of Fourth Avenue and Pine Street, that ended with one of them dead. Police classified the incident as a homicide and have already detained a suspect, but the motive and circumstances remain under investigation. For a city that has repeatedly found itself at the center of debates over rising street crime and the public-safety crisis, the incident was another troubling signal — particularly because it happened early in the morning just steps from the main shopping and business districts.

According to an official Seattle Police Department statement, a 911 call came in at approximately 6:45 a.m. A passerby reported that two men were fighting and that one of them was screaming for help. While officers were heading to the scene, the same witness said that one of the participants had stopped moving. Responding officers found a 67-year-old man without a pulse. Seattle Fire Department medics who arrived at the scene pronounced him dead. The suspect, a 39-year-old man, was detained by officers at the scene and taken into custody. Detectives are now determining what led to the fatal outcome. Possibilities range from a sudden argument to the potential use of a weapon, although that detail has not been officially confirmed.

According to police, a key element of the investigation will be footage from a camera installed as part of the Real Time Crime Center program — a video-surveillance system that allows operators to monitor activity in troubled areas of the city in real time and relay information to patrol officers and detectives. The department’s official statement emphasized that a nearby camera captured the incident and would “play a crucial role” in establishing what happened. This detail is important for two reasons. First, it demonstrates how extensively downtown Seattle is covered by cameras, which in theory should accelerate the clearance of crimes. Second, it raises the question of why tragedies cannot be prevented even when such surveillance is available: cameras record violence, but they do not stop it.

Several points may not be obvious to readers unfamiliar with the local context. The Real Time Crime Center is not simply a collection of cameras, but an analytical center where operators monitor video feeds around the clock and can immediately direct police to an incident. Westlake Park is one of Seattle’s principal public plazas, next to department stores, a monorail station and the Westlake Center transit hub. It is both a tourist attraction and a traditional gathering place for unhoused people and street vendors, making it a focal point in the city’s debates over order and safety. The mention of Mayor Katie Wilson in the original metadata is not incidental: since taking office, her administration has emphasized combating street crime and expanding the surveillance system, and the current incident will inevitably become an argument in that political debate. Finally, the age difference between the participants — 67 and 39 — may indicate an imbalance in physical ability, making the legal question of whether this was a fight between equal participants or an assault especially significant.

Officials have so far declined to comment on the cause of the confrontation, and the victim’s name has not been released pending notification of relatives. Police are asking anyone with information to call 206-233-5000. It is worth adding that incidents like this in downtown Seattle occur amid continuing debates over police reform, cuts to law-enforcement funding and rising rates of crimes against people. Each case becomes not only a criminal matter but also a political one. As a result, the answer to what exactly happened in Westlake Park early Thursday morning will matter far beyond the individual court proceeding.

Elderly Man Dies After Downtown Seattle Fight: What We Know So Far

The tragic incident occurred in the heart of Seattle, in Westlake Park, which has long been considered one of the city’s busiest and most troubled areas. An argument broke out there Thursday morning between two men, ending in the death of the 67-year-old participant. Police have not yet released details about the cause of the fight, the identities of those involved or whether the second participant was detained. Nevertheless, the location itself — Westlake Park — has been at the center of public debate for years over safety, homelessness and drug dealing downtown.

According to The Seattle Times, a 67-year-old man died Thursday morning after getting into a fight with another man. That brief description is virtually all that is known from official sources at this point. Police confirmed the death but did not say whether anyone had been arrested, whether a weapon was used or what exactly caused the confrontation. For readers unfamiliar with the area, Westlake Park is a small but extremely busy public space in downtown Seattle, surrounded by shopping centers, monorail stations and bus stops. In recent years, the park has gained a reputation as a place where altercations, thefts and public drug use frequently occur, making incidents like this, unfortunately, less unusual.

The key detail here is the victim’s age. At 67, he was of retirement age, and the possibility that he was a passerby or an older man who did not expect to be attacked increases the public impact of the case. At the same time, the lack of information about the other participant leaves important questions unanswered: Was the conflict domestic, criminal or triggered by outside circumstances? Until police release a report, any conclusions would be premature.

Nevertheless, the fact that a person died in the city center during the morning hours underscores a broader problem: perceptions of safety in downtown Seattle. After the pandemic, the city faced rising street crime and open-air drug dealing, and Westlake Park has repeatedly become the focus of criticism from businesses and residents. This case will likely revive questions about how effective current public-order measures are and how city officials plan to respond to tragedies like this. For the victim’s family, it is a personal loss; for the city, it is another signal that downtown safety requires close attention.

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New Allegation Against Foundations Tied to Cesar Chavez

A former longtime volunteer with the United Farm Workers union has filed a lawsuit against foundations linked to the late civil rights and labor leader Cesar Chavez. In the complaint, the woman alleges that Chavez raped her one night in the 1970s at the union’s headquarters. The case is the latest public accusation against a prominent figure whose legacy is associated with the fight for farmworkers’ rights and the Latino community in the United States.

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Based on: New Accuser Sues Foundations With Ties to Cesar Chavez

Murray condemns idea of subsidizing stay-at-home parents’ childcare

Democratic Sen. Patty Murray criticized the Donald Trump administration’s plans to allow married couples with one nonworking parent to receive federal childcare subsidies. The proposal would expand the existing Child Care and Development Fund, a program that has helped parents pay for daycare and nannies for decades so they can work or attend school. If adopted, the federal government would for the first time directly support married parents’ decision to stay home and raise their children.

Murray and other critics say that, with the program’s budget unchanged, new recipients would receive funding at the expense of working parents, particularly single mothers and other families who currently make up most participants. The senator called the initiative illegal and “a return to the past,” saying the government should not penalize people for being single parents or choosing not to marry. In her view, using scarce funds to advance a “culture war” is not family policy but merely reduces assistance for those who truly need it.

The $12 billion federal program helps approximately 1.3 million children nationwide. Washington state receives about $316 million, but support is available to only a small share of eligible families. According to an advocacy organization, about 87% of children eligible for subsidies in the state receive no assistance because of insufficient funding. At the same time, the average cost of care for a child under age 5 in Washington is approximately $18,700 a year, while infant care in King County, including the Seattle area, can cost more than $30,000. For a family of three, a subsidy can reduce the monthly copayment to about $165.

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Based on: Murray slams Trump plan to pay stay-at-home parents childcare subsidies

Seattle: How Technology Is Changing the City

Seattle, a center of technology and innovation, is facing challenges ranging from impostor syndrome and a vacant downtown pit to economic instability requiring new strategies.

Seattle Is Tired of Being Modest: Why the City Needs to Believe in Itself

Seattle is not merely a city in the U.S. Pacific Northwest; it is one of the world’s centers of technology, science, and innovation. Amazon and Starbucks are headquartered here, Boeing builds airplanes here, and Blue Origin builds rockets here. The city is also home to some of the world’s leading research institutions and medical centers. Yet, as Jacob Kolker argues in his column for GeekWire, Seattle has a serious problem—not with its achievements, but with its self-esteem. A city accustomed to modesty and the “Seattle Freeze” has spent years allowing others to tell its story, even though it could be a powerful voice in the global competition for talent, investment, and attention. Kolker, co-founder and co-leader of AI House, urges the region’s residents and leaders to stop being pathologically modest and start openly taking pride in what is happening here. His argument is simple: reputations are built from stories, and stories are built from the everyday choices of everyone who lives and works in Seattle.

In his column for GeekWire, Kolker compares Seattle to his mother, who grew up in Tarnów, Poland, emigrated to the United States in 1978 to escape communism, but nearly half a century later remains “very, very Polish.” She regularly sends her son messages about any Polish achievement—whether it involves an athlete, a scientist, or someone with a Polish grandmother who finished third in a chess tournament in Nebraska. “I love this because my mom has an absolutely indestructible pride in where she comes from,” the author writes. In his view, that same instinct—not superiority, but a sense of significance—is vital to Seattle. The city, he says, suffers from “pathological modesty” and a collective impostor syndrome, even though evidence of its greatness is everywhere. Kolker cites the numbers: more than 200,000 people work in technology, science, aerospace, health care, and startups; nearly 40% of the world’s commercial aircraft fleet flies on planes built in this region; Blue Origin and SpaceX rockets are developed here, and Seattle’s medical breakthroughs have saved tens of millions of lives. He also notes that the city has just won the Super Bowl.

Despite all this, Seattle remains a city with a “branding problem.” Kolker insists that cities have reputations whether or not they deliberately manage them. Silicon Valley is where ambitious people build companies. Nashville is music. Los Angeles is film and television. Seattle, relying on cultural modesty, mistakenly assumes that its achievements speak for themselves. “They don’t,” the author emphasizes. In his view, reputations are built one story at a time: one story is interesting, ten create a pattern, and fifty change beliefs. Those beliefs determine where people move, where companies open offices, and where investors put their money. That is why Kolker proposes a concrete five-step plan. The first is to formulate one simple idea: “Seattle’s talent pool is absurdly strong.” The city does not need 50 slogans or another consulting-led rebrand—it needs a memorable phrase explaining to the outside world why people should come here. The second step is to use the megaphones it already has: local publications, podcasts, and social channels that document startups, breakthroughs, and product launches every day. Readers are urged not to scroll past the news, but to share it, send it to people outside the region, and amplify local stories.

The third step is to treat every local success as a victory for all of Seattle. When a robotics company releases something outstanding, a maritime startup reimagines how ports operate, Amazon or Microsoft research labs achieve a breakthrough, a biotech company succeeds, or a game studio releases a global hit—that is all part of Seattle’s story. Companies, universities, hospitals, laboratories, investors, and civic organizations should become a unified amplification network rather than treating someone else’s success as someone else’s news. The fourth step is to “put Seattle on the label.” Founders should say where they are building their businesses. “Made with ❤️ in Seattle” should appear at the bottom of every website, in press releases, LinkedIn posts, onstage, in interviews, and in communications with investors and customers. Silicon Valley has tied its success to geography for decades; it is time for Seattle to do the same. The fifth step is to sell the city better. Every venture capitalist, founder, executive, and civic leader should be able to explain in 60 seconds why a company should be built here. Do not defend Seattle or apologize for it—sell it. And remember: it is about talent. Also, the author adds with a touch of irony, cream cheese on hot dogs.

Kolker emphasizes that there is no “giant Seattle marketing department” that will come along and save the city’s reputation. Nor is there a national arbiter who will one day examine the evidence and declare that Seattle deserves respect. It is up to the residents themselves. When someone here does something exceptional, people need to act accordingly: read the article, share the post, send the link to the team, write to a friend in New York, discuss it over dinner, and tell their children. “In short, become my Polish mother,” the author urges. His mother does not need clickbait lists to know that Poland matters. She simply believes it. Seattle must build its own reputation in the same way. The good news is that the city already has everything it needs: outstanding companies, world-class institutions, ambitious people, groundbreaking science, and media outlets documenting it all. What is missing is the confidence to start speaking more loudly. Stories become patterns, patterns become reputations, and reputations become gravity. That gravity creates influence and respect. Pride is not something someone gives you. You decide that your home matters—and then act accordingly. “Let’s get to work,” Kolker concludes.

A few points should be clarified to help explain the text. The “Seattle Freeze” is a widespread stereotype about the social reserve of the region’s residents, their reluctance to make new acquaintances, and their discomfort with casual conversation. A “unicorn” is a startup with a market valuation exceeding $1 billion. AWS and Azure are Amazon’s and Microsoft’s cloud platforms, respectively, and have become the foundation of modern digital infrastructure. Fred Hutch is the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, one of the world’s leading cancer research institutions. The Super Bowl is the championship game of the National Football League, and winning it is a major sporting and cultural event for a city. Ted Lasso is a popular series about a coach who urges people to believe in themselves and their team—an ironic reference to the column’s central theme. Kolker’s key point is simple: Seattle has already achieved everything, but it lacks the loud, confident pride needed for the world to recognize it. And the process should begin not with consulting reports, but with each resident’s personal choice to share stories of success and say: “This was made here.”

The Empty Pit in Downtown Seattle: 21 Years of Waiting and a Deadlock at the Site of a Future Skyscraper

Directly across from Seattle City Hall, in the heart of the business district, a huge hole gapes open. The last building to stand there—the former public-safety building—was demolished in 2005. The site has remained undeveloped ever since. Over the years, the pit has become an inseparable part of the cityscape, while the offices of senior officials, including the mayor and several City Council members, look out over the abandoned construction site. The story of this property is not merely the chronicle of one delayed project; it reflects the complex economic, political, and legal problems confronting modern American cities.

Formally, city officials concluded earlier this year that developer Bosa, which owns the property, was in default under the 2017 agreement signed when the land was transferred. Seattle’s Department of Finance and Administrative Services notified the company that it could face fines of up to $5,000 per day, depending on the length of the delay. However, a City Hall representative said the city is not rushing to impose the penalties. Bosa strongly disputes the allegations. In its response to the city and in a statement to KUOW, the company attributed the missed deadlines to “the extreme deterioration of market conditions that began with COVID, followed by a dramatic increase in construction costs and a profound impact on the neighborhood that continues to this day, making the original development plan impossible to execute.”

The history of the site is full of drama. Bosa received the project after the previous developer, Triad, became embroiled in a scandal involving an alleged campaign-finance corruption scheme connected to the City Council. Council candidate John Grant, who represented tenants in an active lawsuit against Triad, claimed that a company representative offered to have him drop the lawsuit in exchange for ending a negative advertising campaign against him. When the information became public, the city terminated its contract with Triad, and the project went to Bosa. More than two decades have passed since then, yet the pit remains a pit.

Developing the project in the current economic environment is extremely difficult. The office vacancy rate in Seattle’s central business district has approached 35%. Residential high-rises—both apartments and condominiums—face problems of their own: high interest rates, rising construction costs, and relatively stable rents that are not increasing. “If I were a developer, I would be hesitant unless costs could be reduced, because rents are not rising right now,” said City Council member Eddie Lin, who chairs the Land Use Committee.

Even if the city fines Bosa the maximum amount, it is unclear whether that would move the roughly $300 million project forward. “We should find out,” said former Deputy Mayor Tim Burgess, who once sponsored the legislation transferring the land to Bosa. In his view, “the city should apply more pressure.” It remains unclear when, or whether, the fines will be imposed, but Council member Eddie Lin insists that all options should remain on the table: “We need to take a serious look at what we actually want to see there and how to achieve it.”

The situation is a vivid example of how bureaucratic delays, litigation, political scandals, and market shocks can freeze an entire block in the center of a major city for decades. The empty pit across from City Hall has become not only a symbol of unrealized plans, but also a constant reminder that even the best intentions and legal tools cannot always overcome inertia and economic realities.

Seattle at a Crossroads: Mayor Wilson Creates Economic Task Force to Save a “Fragile” Moment

Barely into her term, Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson is facing a difficult challenge: a city once considered a locomotive of the American economy thanks to its technology giants must now think about survival. According to a report published by KOMO News, the new mayor signed an order creating a special task force to develop recommendations for strengthening the city’s economy and building what Wilson calls “a resilient Seattle economy.” The move signals a troubling trend: even the most prosperous technology hubs in the United States can no longer rely on growth continuing automatically.

The context is far more serious than another bureaucratic initiative. Seattle, associated for decades with Amazon, Microsoft, and an endless flow of venture capital, has encountered what economists call a “fragile moment.” This is not a recession in the traditional sense, but rather a structural vulnerability: mass layoffs in the technology sector, cuts to office real-estate budgets, and the gradual departure of skilled workers to more affordable regions have created a domino effect. When corporations such as Amazon scale back their expansion, the damage affects not only their employees but also small businesses—coffee shops, restaurants, and cleaning companies that served office centers. That is why Wilson is focusing not on large corporations but on diversification: the task force is expected to find ways to support small and midsize businesses, startups, and industries less dependent on fluctuations in the technology market.

The reference to a “Bellevue consulting organization” and an assessment of the city’s economic condition deserves particular attention. Although the available excerpt provides few details, the decision to bring in outside consultants from a neighboring city is revealing. Bellevue has long competed with Seattle for corporate headquarters, and the fact that the mayor of Washington State’s largest city is seeking help from organizations based in the suburbs may indicate that the city recognizes the limits of its own analytical resources. The article also mentions a figure of $175 million—likely referring to a projected budget shortfall or the amount of tax revenue the city risks losing by 2027. This figure requires context: in relation to Seattle’s city budget, which exceeds $7 billion, $175 million is not catastrophic, but it is a significant hole that could lead to cuts in public services, including policing and programs addressing gun violence.

It is telling that gun violence is mentioned alongside economic problems in both the headline and the article. This is not accidental: in American cities, economic instability and rising crime often go hand in hand. Job losses, business closures, and a shrinking tax base mean fewer resources for law enforcement and social programs, which in turn can fuel further increases in crime. Wilson appears to understand this and is trying to develop a comprehensive approach in which economic revival is inseparable from public safety. However, creating a task force is only the first step. The central question is whether the advisory body can propose real mechanisms rather than merely a collection of well-intentioned ideas—and whether the city will have the political will to implement them.

The “fragile economic moment” described by the mayor is not merely a rhetorical phrase. It is an acknowledgment that the growth model based on the technology industry has run its course in its previous form. Seattle faces a choice: either transform itself into a diversified urban ecosystem where biotechnology, green energy, creative industries, and manufacturing develop alongside the tech sector, or continue depending on the whims of the stock market and the decisions of a handful of corporate boards. Creating the task force is an attempt to buy time and find a third path. Whether Wilson will succeed remains to be seen, but it is already clear that Seattle can no longer afford to be merely “the city of Amazon.” Economic resilience requires sacrifices, compromises, and, above all, a willingness to acknowledge that the era of effortless prosperity is over.

Several terms may not be immediately clear. “Tech layoffs” refers to the wave of job cuts at IT companies that began in 2022 after the market overheated during the pandemic; it affected hundreds of thousands of employees across the country. A “resilient economy” in this context means a city’s ability to withstand external shocks without a sharp rise in unemployment and bankruptcies. A “task force” is a temporary collective body typically made up of experts, businesspeople, and government officials that prepares recommendations for the executive branch but does not have the authority to pass laws. Finally, the “Bellevue consulting organization” is presumably a firm specializing in economic analysis and strategic planning that was hired to conduct an independent assessment of the situation.

The article’s key insight is that Seattle, once a symbol of America’s innovation boom, is now forced to fight for economic stability. This is not a local crisis, but a reflection of broader tectonic shifts in the U.S. economy: a reassessment of the value of office real estate, the regionalization of the labor market, and growing competition among cities for human capital. The $175 million projected for 2027 is not merely a budgetary gap; it is a marker that the city administration is preparing for a prolonged period of austerity. Wilson’s initiative is more an acknowledgment of the problem than a solution to it. Meaningful conclusions can be drawn only after the task force presents its recommendations and it becomes clear whether the city’s leaders—from major corporations to labor unions—are prepared to accept unpopular measures. For now, Seattle is entering an era in which “fragility” is becoming the new normal, and survival requires not so much innovation as adaptation.

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The Moon’s Planetary Tour: What Seattle Residents Will See

In recent days, the Moon has successively drawn close to bright planets: on Sunday, it passed within just a few degrees of reddish Mars, and on Tuesday, it appeared near Jupiter. Those who missed these encounters need not be disappointed: new celestial conjunctions are expected on Saturday and Monday, when the Moon will appear beside Mercury and Venus. According to Chris Laws, a University of Washington professor specializing in astronomy, January has turned the Moon into a participant in a kind of “planetary ball.” Before this busy period, it also caused a partial lunar eclipse on Aug. 27, and from Friday into Saturday, it will enter the new moon phase.

On Saturday, a very thin crescent Moon will approach Mercury low above the western horizon. The best place to look will be toward Puget Sound, if rainy and cloudy conditions allow observers to find a break in the sky. On Monday, after sunset, the Moon will move toward Venus. The two will also need to be sought low in the west, as Venus and Mercury are close to each other. Astronomy enthusiasts have other spectacular events to look forward to this year as well: on Dec. 14, the Geminid meteor shower will bring hundreds of “shooting stars.” These flashes are caused by dust particles shed by asteroid 3200 Phaethon.

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Based on: How to see the moon dance with planets over Seattle this week

Last Warm Days Before Fall Chill Arrives in Seattle

Summer is making a brief return to Seattle: following the recent overcast weather, the beginning of the week is expected to bring sunny skies, no rain and temperatures around 75–81°F. On Wednesday, temperatures will climb to nearly 81°F, so residents are encouraged to take advantage of one last opportunity for summer activities — swimming in the lake, playing tennis or taking a short hike. However, an atmospheric front will move into the region on Thursday, bringing more clouds and cooler temperatures of around 70°F. Any precipitation will mainly affect the Cascade Mountains, where dry conditions are increasing the risk of wildfires. Light rain is possible in Seattle on Friday and Saturday, totaling about 0.1 inches, while cool, cloudy weather will persist over the weekend, with temperatures around 64–68°F, signaling the approach of fall.

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Based on: Seattle weather: Summer hanging on, but clouds are on the way

Free meals now available to all children in Seattle schools

The new school year has begun in Seattle Public Schools with the introduction of universal free meals: every student is entitled to one breakfast and one lunch each day, without any verification of family income. Previously, students at more than half of the district’s 106 schools already received free meals. Now, however, the program extends to all children at schools that meet the requirements of the federal Community Eligibility Provision.

School meals in Washington state are typically funded through the federal National School Lunch Program, state funding and family payments. Federal benefits depend largely on income, and parents often have to apply and document their financial circumstances. In Seattle, eligibility for free meals is based on the economic need of the entire school rather than the income of each individual family. As a result, children do not have to prove that they qualify for assistance or pay for lunch, even if their families do not receive federal aid.

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson said the program would help ensure that students do not go hungry and would reduce the financial burden on parents. Eliminating meal charges should also lessen the social stigma associated with free lunches.

At the same time, the school district is holding tastings of new dishes to take students’ opinions into account. At Montlake Elementary School, children sampled teriyaki with salmon, chicken and beef; vegetable yakisoba; plant-based “al pastor” soup; pickled blueberries; Hawaiian-style beef stew; quesadillas and other dishes. Nine-year-old Neil Meyer liked the stew best, while the pickled berries seemed merely “fine” to him. Another student chose a quesadilla but did not even dare try the blueberries, which looked suspicious to him.

District Superintendent Ben Shuldiner said the unified system would simplify cafeteria operations: staff would no longer have to collect money or determine who qualified for subsidized meals. However, the district expects demand to increase, so it will likely need to purchase more food and hire additional workers.

The City Council allocated about $8.3 million to launch the program, using revenue from a voter-approved education levy and a surplus from the affordable-housing budget. The funding is expected to last through 2029, after which the program is planned to be financed through the city’s capital-gains tax. Seattle imposes a 2.25% tax on certain gains from the sale of long-term investments, such as stocks, when annual capital gains exceed $250,000. Revenue from the tax is intended for education, transportation and other city programs.

However, the tax is being challenged in court. The plaintiffs argue that it is effectively an income tax and therefore must comply with the Washington State Constitution, which has traditionally required such a tax to be uniform and to remain within established rate limits. The city maintains that it is an excise tax on a specific financial transaction, not an income tax. In addition, voters may repeal the tax in the November election.

Wilson said that, even if the measure fails, the city would still try to preserve free meals, although she hopes the program will eventually become a statewide benefit.

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Based on: Pickled blueberries and yakisoba: Free school meals launch in Seattle

Where immigrant populations are growing fastest in King County

International immigration became the main source of population growth in King County after Seattle’s technology boom in the 2010s. From 2010 to 2020, it added about 159,000 residents to the county, while domestic migration added fewer than 44,000. From 2020 to 2025, approximately 132,000 more people moved in from abroad, while the number of people relocating from other parts of the United States declined by 95,000.

Growth is concentrated mainly in two areas: the suburban technology corridor on the Eastside and densely populated central Seattle. The most significant increase occurred in Issaquah Highlands, where the number of foreign-born residents rose from fewer than 500 in 2015 to nearly 3,600 in 2024. More than 70% were born in Asia, and immigrants make up over 40% of the neighborhood’s population. It is an affluent area, with a median household income of about $170,000; more than one-fifth of full-time workers are employed in the technology industry.

Next are downtown Redmond and the Overlake neighborhood on the border between Bellevue and Redmond, home to major Microsoft facilities. They gained approximately 2,500 and 2,300 immigrants, respectively. Two more top areas are in central Seattle — Belltown and Denny Triangle, near Amazon’s campus. In all five neighborhoods, people from Asian countries make up a significant share of new residents, and the proportion of technology-sector workers is particularly high. These figures reflect conditions through the end of 2024, so the potential impact of the Donald Trump administration’s tougher immigration policies cannot yet be assessed. The figures are based on five-year averages from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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Based on: King County’s immigration boom is concentrated in these neighborhoods

Seattle: Demographics, the Gig Economy and Urban Violence—New Challenges

Seattle is facing a range of new challenges: from an unusual demographic surge driven by Amazon’s growth to conflicts in the gig economy and rising street violence. Research shows how the technology boom affected birth rates; Walmart is compensating delivery drivers for violating transparency rules; and the story of a 21-year-old man wounded in Belltown raises questions about human indifference.

How Amazon’s Rise Affected Seattle’s Demographics

For years, major U.S. cities have been engaged in an unofficial competition to be named the country’s most “childless,” with Seattle and Portland traditionally near the top of the list. However, analysts have found that the situation in Washington state’s largest city has begun to change in an unexpected way—not because of natural population growth or an influx of families with children. The roots of this phenomenon lie in the rapid expansion of technology giant Amazon, which radically transformed the city’s appearance and demographic structure in the early 2000s.

According to data published in a new study by The Wall Street Journal, the share of Seattle’s population under the age of 18 has risen by 10% over the past decade. This is particularly notable given the national trend: in most other major U.S. cities, the figure was falling, while the country’s overall birth rate continued to decline. Seattle was effectively moving against the current, and the phenomenon has a clear explanation linked to the corporation that reshaped the region’s economic landscape.

Experts, including Sarah Curran, director of the University of Washington’s Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology, believe that the observed “mini baby boom” was a direct result of the influx of young professionals who came to the city during Amazon’s heyday. She said that between 2000 and 2010, the city welcomed a huge number of people in their 20s and 30s who came to work in the technology industry. These young people, who were at their prime reproductive age, later began having children, ultimately increasing the absolute number of underage residents.

However, there is another side to the story. Although the total number of children increased, Seattle’s birth rate—that is, the number of births per 1,000 women of childbearing age—began falling as early as the mid-2000s. In 2010, for example, the figure was 55 births per 1,000 women; by 2024, it had fallen to 31. That was the second-lowest rate among all major U.S. cities. The paradox is easy to explain: because the total number of young women in the city grew sharply, even a small number of births produced a noticeable absolute increase in the number of children, while the relative frequency of births declined.

This demographic surge appears to have been a temporary phenomenon linked to a specific stage in Amazon’s development. The company expanded its Seattle workforce from 7,500 employees in 2000 to 60,000 by 2020, deliberately attracting young people who valued an urban lifestyle. Unlike their parents’ generation, many preferred to remain in the city center even after having children rather than move to the suburbs. But times have changed: growth in the technology sector has slowed sharply, and Amazon itself has carried out a series of mass layoffs.

Seattle is now facing a new reality in which the rise and fall of a single corporation directly affects how many children will be born in the city in the coming years. According to Curran, the current effect will probably be short-lived—perhaps lasting another five or ten years. People who moved to the city during the boom are gradually leaving their reproductive years, and there is no guarantee that their own children will remain in Seattle. The main question now occupying demographers is whether the city can remain attractive to young families as high housing costs and changing labor-market conditions make it increasingly unaffordable. More details can be found in the original KUOW article.

Walmart to Compensate Seattle Delivery Drivers: Transparency Prevails Over a Giant

U.S. retail giant Walmart has agreed to pay nearly $120,000 to 413 workers on the Spark Delivery platform after Seattle officials uncovered systematic violations involving compensation. The decision resulted from an investigation by the Office of Labor Standards (OLS) and marks an important precedent for the entire gig economy.

The allegations centered on the company’s failure to provide drivers with minimum pay for offered deliveries, complete information about trips and earnings, and the required electronic receipts and notices of workers’ rights. Seattle’s local minimum-pay law for workers using mobile applications has been in effect since 2020 and requires companies to provide complete transparency: every contractor must clearly understand how much they will earn before accepting an order and be able to verify the accuracy of the payment after completing the work. The investigation found that Walmart had ignored these requirements, resulting in an accumulated debt to more than 400 people.

OLS Director Steven Marchese emphasized that complaints from the drivers themselves were the starting point for the investigation. He said Walmart’s decision to settle the dispute shows that the city continues to hold corporations accountable for violating local laws. Notably, the fine paid to the city was relatively modest—just $2,455—while the bulk of the money will go directly to affected workers. This reflects a priority on compensating people for harm rather than replenishing city coffers.

The reaction from workers’ rights advocates deserves particular attention. Danielle Alvarado of the Fair Work Center called the settlement a victory for transparency, not merely for compensation. She recalled that Seattle drivers had actively lobbied several years ago for legislation requiring delivery apps to disclose complete payment information. The Walmart case, she said, proves that without the right to verify their pay, workers remain at the mercy of corporate algorithms. The payment structures used by such services are often opaque—bonuses and mileage- and time-based premiums can change arbitrarily—and only mandatory reporting allows workers to challenge unfair treatment.

The story of Bridgett Smallbeck-Pöhler, one of the affected workers, adds a human dimension to the case. A single mother who has to cover fuel, vehicle depreciation and all related expenses herself, she decided to testify and has no regrets. Her statement that “every dollar matters” accurately reflects the reality of life for most gig workers, for whom this kind of work is often their main or only source of income. By taking on a corporate giant, she discovered that the city administration was willing to listen and act on behalf of people like her.

It is important to understand that Spark Delivery is the platform Walmart uses to engage independent contractors to deliver goods from its stores. Technically, these drivers are not considered company employees, but Seattle officials apply local minimum-pay ordinances to them. This approach has repeatedly become the subject of legal disputes: companies argue that the laws themselves violate federal rules governing independent contractors, but courts have so far sided with the municipality. For other cities, the case could serve as an example of how to regulate digital platforms effectively without waiting for federal legislation.

According to the company itself, more than 400 active drivers were working in Seattle during the investigation, although the total number of such workers worldwide runs into the thousands. This underscores the potential scale of claims if similar investigations begin in other jurisdictions. Experts note that for Walmart, $120,000 is a drop in the bucket compared with its annual revenue, but the significance of the move extends far beyond financial compensation. The settlement establishes a legal precedent and sends a clear message to all platform operators: saving money by withholding information from workers may cost more than playing fair.

Under the payment process, OLS will distribute the funds among the 413 workers in proportion to the harm they suffered. Each will receive notice of the amount, which is also part of restoring a sense of justice. For drivers accustomed to feeling unprotected in the face of large corporations, this is also a psychological victory—a demonstration that collective complaints and a willingness to speak about problems can make a difference. The hope is that the case will encourage other workers across the country to pay closer attention to their labor rights and not be afraid to contact regulators, as the Seattle single mother did.

Surviving Despite Indifference: The Story of a 21-Year-Old Seattle Resident Wounded in Belltown

An incident in Seattle’s Belltown neighborhood has prompted reflection on human indifference and the value of life. A 21-year-old man was shot in broad daylight, and according to his family, he survived thanks only to his own determination and the prompt response of medical personnel—not because of help from passersby. As reported by FOX 13 Seattle, the tragedy unfolded in front of dozens of people, but no one came to the wounded man’s aid, leaving him alone with his pain and fear.

The young man’s story is not merely a crime report but a bitter reminder of how easily society passes by someone else’s suffering. The victim’s relatives emphasize that their son and brother was not an accidental victim of a random street shootout—he was caught in the midst of violence that is increasingly heard in the city’s busy neighborhoods. Yet for the family, the most horrifying part was not the shooting itself but what followed. Dozens of witnesses, surveillance cameras and people hurrying about their business—and not a single person who even tried to stop the bleeding or call for help. The man lay on the pavement, bleeding heavily, until someone finally called emergency services, but according to his loved ones, that did not happen immediately.

The doctors who arrived at the scene did everything they could. The operation lasted several hours, and the young man miraculously survived. He is now in stable condition, but his recovery will be long, both physically and psychologically. His family has already said it will not remain silent about what happened: they want the case to spark a conversation about the importance of not walking past someone else’s suffering. In an interview with local journalists, the victim’s mother said that even while semi-conscious, her son fought desperately to stay alive because he knew that his family was waiting for him at home. That, perhaps, is the only comforting element in this story.

Belltown is one of Seattle’s busiest neighborhoods, filled with bars, offices and residential buildings, and it is always crowded during the day. But population density, as this case shows, does not guarantee safety—if anything, it can create the illusion that someone else will inevitably help. Psychologists call this the “bystander effect”: the more people there are, the less likely it is that anyone will assume responsibility. Everyone thinks helping is someone else’s job, and ultimately no one helps.

For Seattle, the case is another troubling warning sign. A city once considered one of the safest metropolitan areas on the West Coast, Seattle has faced rising street violence in recent years. In 2024 alone, the number of shootings downtown increased by one-third compared with the previous year, and most incidents occurred in crowded areas. Officials say the city needs more patrols and stronger community engagement, but so far these measures have produced no tangible results. The victim’s neighbors admit that they are increasingly afraid to go outside after dark, and some are already considering moving to the suburbs.

This story is not only about a bullet and pain but also about the moral choice each of us faces. When we see someone in trouble, we can turn away, convincing ourselves that it is none of our business. Or we can take a step toward them—even if that step seems insignificant. The 21-year-old’s family hopes their tragedy will teach others a lesson: do not be indifferent, because tomorrow you could be in his place. Meanwhile, the young man is learning to live again with the consequences of someone else’s gunshot and someone else’s inaction, while the city continues to hum and no one knows where the next shot will ring out.

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Vashon Island Expands Mobile Urgent Care

On Vashon Island in Washington state, a mobile medical team provides free urgent care to patients in their homes, helping fill gaps in access to health care. Nurse practitioner Katie Burke and registered nurse Ashley Soares visit residents who have difficulty getting to a clinic or need prompt medical advice. The program is considered unusual for the state and is especially important for the island community, where health care options are limited.

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Based on: Facing healthcare gaps, Vashon Island expands mobile urgent care

Colorful Lorikeet Exhibit Opens at Seattle Zoo

At Seattle’s Woodland Park Zoo, visitors can get an up-close look at colorful lorikeets—small parrots that move freely through a new aviary and perch on people and their phones. The unusual exhibit allows guests to observe the birds from virtually arm’s length and take striking photographs. In a photo taken Monday, lorikeets perched on Jersey Weaver and her husband Joseph’s phone as he tried to photograph his wife.

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Based on: Lorikeets are colorful highlight of a new Woodland Park Zoo exhibit

Former “Bikini Baristas” Win Nearly $2 Million from Coffee Shop Owner

A group of 70 former baristas who worked at coffee shops in the Puget Sound region have won a yearslong legal battle against the establishments’ owner over labor law and wage violations. The court ordered the company to pay the employees nearly $2 million. The case has become an important example of protecting workers’ rights in an industry where staff often face unconventional employment conditions and inadequate pay.

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Based on: Group of bikini baristas win nearly $2M in legal battle

PAX West, Warm Weather and the NFL: Seattle News Digest

A recap of Saturday at PAX West 2026, featuring cosplay and indie games; the weather outlook through the end of September, including the last warm days; and the Seahawks’ preparations for a Super Bowl rematch without key running back Charbonnet—all in this latest overview of the region’s top stories.

PAX West 2026 in Seattle: How Labor Day Weekend Turned the Convention Center into Geek Culture’s Capital

The second day of PAX West 2026, held at the Seattle Convention Center, once again proved that the festival is more than a video game exhibition—it is a true carnival for everyone who lives and breathes pop culture. If Friday was merely a warm-up, Saturday reached an absolute peak: Tens of thousands of people filled the corridors, while cosplayers turned ordinary staircases and lobbies into stages for improvised performances. The level of creativity was astonishing—from instantly recognizable AAA blockbuster characters to figures known only to the most devoted fans. That, perhaps, is the true magic of PAX.

Organizers clearly made diversity of interests a priority. While some attendees stormed booths showcasing new indie games, others spent hours absorbed in tabletop prototypes, and still others enthusiastically discussed classics that once defined their genres. This eclecticism is PAX’s trademark, setting it apart from more “intimate,” specialized exhibitions. Esports players, visitors seeking nothing more than nostalgia for 8-bit consoles, and anime fans whose highlight of the day was a photo session with a favorite character all feel equally at home here. The boundaries between generations of gamers disappear surprisingly easily, creating the unique sense of unity that makes people willing to stand in line.

The cosplay scene deserves special attention, having reached a new level of craftsmanship this year. It is not just about elaborate armor or flamboyant wigs—judging by the audience’s reaction, accurate portrayals of a character’s personality and Easter eggs woven into costume details are valued just as highly. Judging by the mood in the halls, Saturday was the day when even the shyest newcomers, inspired by veteran cosplayers, dared to attempt their first transformations. For many attendees, PAX West is less about games than about having the freedom to be themselves among like-minded people, and the festival’s second day demonstrated that with remarkable clarity.

For those unfamiliar with the PAX format, it is worth explaining that this is one of the world’s largest series of gaming festivals, founded in 2004 by the editors of the popular webcomic Penny Arcade. The word “West” in the name refers to its regional connection to the U.S. West Coast, while the event itself has historically been held in Seattle. Labor Day Weekend, mentioned in this context, is an American holiday observed on the first Monday of September and symbolizing the end of summer. PAX West draws its thousands-strong audience during this long weekend. This calendar placement has become one of the festival’s signatures: it is North America’s geek community’s final summer chord.

The main takeaway from Saturday’s program is that the industry is sustained not only by strong sales and technological innovation, but also by a living community. While major studios continue competing for attention in the digital space, PAX West remains a place where face-to-face interaction between fans and creators still has tremendous value. More about how the second day unfolded and which costumes stood out to the audience can be found in the original Seattle Refined report. With Sunday and Monday still ahead, organizers should expect the level of madness to rise even further—and that will undoubtedly benefit everyone involved.

Seattle’s Last Warm Days: What to Expect from the Weather Through the End of September

Summer in Seattle is in no hurry to surrender, although the days have already grown noticeably shorter. The city can still enjoy plenty of sunshine: Today’s daylight lasts just over 13 hours, a full three hours less than on the summer solstice. At the end of June, residents of the region enjoyed nearly 16 hours of daylight, but nature is now moving inexorably toward the autumnal equinox and then toward winter’s minimum.

There is no need to panic just yet, however. The December gloom, when daylight will shrink to a little more than eight hours, is still far away. The current period can be described as a golden middle ground—not the long summer evenings of the past, but not yet the early twilight that lies ahead. Meteorologists at MyNorthwest.com note that this transitional season often brings some of the most pleasant days of the year, and this week will be no exception.

Tuesday morning began cool and calm, with fog and low clouds expected in some areas, particularly across southern inland districts and near the coast. By noon, however, high atmospheric pressure will disperse the morning haze, and the sun will take over. Temperatures in Seattle will rise to a comfortable 22–24 degrees Celsius, fully in line with the climate norm for this time of year. It is an excellent opportunity to spend time outdoors while the weather remains favorable.

Wednesday will be a genuine gift: Forecasters promise it will be the warmest day of the workweek. Thermometers in Seattle could reach 25–26 degrees, while southern parts of the metropolitan area may warm to 27–28 degrees. Clouds will begin increasing toward evening, but that will not spoil the impression of a beautiful day. Essentially, this is the last chance to enjoy truly summery weather before atmospheric fronts take over.

By Thursday and Friday, the sky will become more overcast as upper-level cyclonic activity approaches the region. According to current forecasts, rain will begin no earlier than late Friday and will be intermittent in most areas. Unfortunately, the weekend will bring cooler temperatures and brief showers, with readings falling to 16–21 degrees—already below the usual values for this period. Meteorologists are candid about the uncertainty, however: Some computer models suggest the region could avoid significant rainfall, so it is worth following forecast updates right up to the weekend.

For those unfamiliar with meteorological terminology, an upper-level cyclone is an area of low pressure in the higher layers of the atmosphere that often triggers cloud cover and precipitation even when pressure at the surface remains relatively high. These systems are what often bring prolonged cool weather to Seattle in the fall. A solstice, meanwhile, is an astronomical event when the Sun reaches its highest or lowest point above the horizon, determining the longest or shortest day of the year.

In short, Seattle residents and visitors have a couple of days to enjoy the last truly warm rays of sunshine. The advice is simple: Do not put off walks, picnics, and trips into nature until the weekend. Make use of the next 48 hours while the weather continues to offer summer warmth. A long and, apparently, rainy fall lies ahead, so every sunny hour is worth its weight in gold right now.

Charbonnet’s Return: Seattle Prepares for a Super Bowl Rematch Without Its Key Running Back

The NFL season begins Wednesday, and the Seattle Seahawks are approaching their opening game with cautious optimism. The matchup is a Super Bowl rematch taking place in Week 1, adding intrigue to every piece of news from the team’s camp. The team’s second injury report gave fans reason for restrained optimism: Some players’ conditions have improved, although the main question—who will take the field in the starting lineup—remains open.

The greatest attention is focused on Zach Charbonnet, who will miss at least the first month of the season with a torn ligament. Head coach Mike Macdonald did not hide his optimism when speaking with reporters. According to him, the 25-year-old running back looks incredible and is ahead of even the most ambitious recovery schedule. The fact that Charbonnet is recovering so quickly from an injury suffered in the playoffs in January is already something of a miracle. If the coach is to be believed, he could return even earlier than expected.

Last season was a breakout year for Charbonnet: He rushed for 730 yards and scored 12 touchdowns while serving as the No. 2 back behind Kenneth Walker. Now, however, the situation has changed dramatically. Walker, who was named Super Bowl MVP, signed with Kansas City as a free agent, and Charbonnet was supposed to become the offense’s primary option. Instead, the Seahawks will begin the season with rookie Jdaryan Price, selected in the first round of the draft, and Emanuel Wilson. The good news is that Wilson practiced fully on Monday despite dealing with a hamstring issue.

Seattle’s offensive line is also gradually returning to form. The most encouraging development was the return of Anthony Bradford. The offensive guard, who was limited by a knee issue on Sunday, participated fully in Monday’s practice. That is important because the offensive line is a key factor in games against strong defensive fronts—and it will be especially important against last season’s champions.

The only player who did not take the field at all on Monday was safety Ty Okada, who is dealing with a hamstring injury. Meanwhile, Nick Emmanwori, the other safety recovering from ankle surgery, increased his workload. Macdonald noted that over the past couple of days, Emmanwori had completed nearly his largest volume of work since beginning his recovery—another positive signal ahead of the opener.

Among the other injured players, tight end A.J. Barner, dealing with an abdominal injury, and cornerback Julian Neal, who has a quadriceps issue, both practiced without restrictions. Wide receiver Tory Horton and offensive lineman Josh Jones remain limited, but their participation in the opening game has not been ruled out.

For those who are not deeply familiar with NFL terminology, a few points are worth explaining. The PUP list—Physically Unable to Perform—means that a player cannot practice with the team and automatically misses at least the first four games of the season. It serves as a type of insurance for the club, allowing a player time to recover without occupying a spot on the active roster. A torn knee ligament is one of the most serious injuries in football and usually requires nine to 12 months of rehabilitation, making Charbonnet’s return by the middle of the regular season a genuinely ambitious goal.

The main conclusion from all this information is simple: The Seahawks are deliberately avoiding rushing key players back. The team, which reached the playoffs last season and came close to eliminating San Francisco, is taking a long-term approach. A rivalry rematch in Week 1 is a challenge, but the coaching staff appears willing to risk an early-season result in order to reach the decisive games at full strength. Judging by how carefully Macdonald discusses each player’s recovery, Seattle understands that the main battle will not take place in September, but in January and February.

As reported by sports.mynorthwest.com, the Seahawks still have their customary preseason routine ahead. The final injury report will be released Tuesday, after which it will become clear who will definitely take the field Wednesday evening. Although the roster situation remains intriguing, one thing is already clear: This Seattle team will fight for every game, and it has every reason to do so.

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Small Plane Crashes in Yard Near Lake Stevens

A single-engine plane crashed in a residential neighborhood north of Lake Stevens, Washington, on Sunday evening, seriously injuring the pilot. The crash occurred around 6:05 p.m. near Frontier Air Park, where the plane went down in the yard of a home on Northeast 127th Avenue. The pilot was the only person aboard. Neighbors provided first aid, and responding rescuers freed the pilot from the wreckage and took him to a hospital. Snohomish County sheriff’s deputies also responded to the scene. The cause of the crash will likely be investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board. Frontier Air Park is a residential aviation community with its own runway surrounded by homes.

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Based on: Small plane crashes in yard north of Lake Stevens; pilot injured

“Seahawks Before Kickoff: Roster Questions and a Special-Teams Bet”

Ahead of the season opener against the Patriots, the Seattle Seahawks are dealing with defensive personnel concerns because of injuries at safety while relying on a cohesive special-teams unit that became one of the team’s main weapons last season.

Rodney Thomas II: Is the Seahawks’ Backup Safety Ready for a Big Role in the Season Opener?

As the new NFL season approaches, the Seattle Seahawks are facing a defensive roster headache. Two safeties — Ty Okada and Nick Emmanwori — are at risk of missing the opening-week game against the New England Patriots because of injuries. If that happens, the full responsibility in the secondary will fall on veteran Rodney Thomas II, who was not even sure he would remain with the team just a few weeks ago. Judging by his comments, however, he is more prepared for this turn of events than anyone.

The situation is a difficult one for the Seahawks. Okada, who spent the entire training camp paired with Julian Love in the starting lineup, unexpectedly appeared on the injury list Sunday and has not returned to the field since. Emmanwori, meanwhile, is still recovering from ankle surgery following an injury suffered in late July. Coach Mike Macdonald’s staff has noted Emmanwori’s progress but acknowledges that he is unlikely to be in optimal shape by Wednesday. With only three true safeties on the active roster, any absence becomes critical.

That is where Rodney Thomas enters the picture. The 28-year-old has four seasons with the Indianapolis Colts under his belt, appearing in 68 games and making 26 starts. He signed with Seattle during the offseason but failed to make the active roster and was released during the final roster cuts, only to return to the club 24 hours later as a practice-squad player. Thomas says he never seriously considered other options: the culture created in the Seahawks’ locker room after last season’s Super Bowl run was too appealing. He describes extraordinary chemistry within the team, saying that all the players “breathe as one” and are ready to “fly around the field” for one another.

Head coach Mike Macdonald has strongly supported Thomas, highlighting his “range, ball skills and physicality.” The coach called signing him a stroke of good fortune and said Thomas performed very well both in the preseason and at practice. It is worth noting, however, that Rodney himself had minor health issues: during camp, he underwent a minor procedure on his right hand after suffering a fracture in the game against Dallas. The player says he is fine now — doctors secured the bone with a small screw, and he simply wears a protective pad.

If Okada cannot play, the club will face a difficult decision. League rules allow roster changes until game day. The Seahawks could officially sign Thomas from the practice squad, while two other players — such as A.J. Finley or D’Anthony Bell — could be temporarily elevated for the specific game. Another option would be placing Okada on injured reserve, which would open an additional spot on the active roster. Either way, Seattle will have to show flexibility in managing its roster to fill the gap.

Situations like this are common in the NFL, where roster depth and the readiness of backup players often become decisive factors. Although the news is likely concerning for Seattle fans ahead of an important game, Thomas himself projects confidence. He points out that during training camp, the coaches deliberately rotated defensive players, giving everyone experience in different combinations with Love. So even if he has to start against the Patriots, he does not feel like an outsider in the scheme. For Thomas, this is a chance to remind the league about himself after two seasons as a backup in Indianapolis — and he intends to make the most of it. More details are available in this FOX 13 Seattle report.

“Special Teams as a Weapon”: Why Key Players’ Return Makes the Seahawks a Favorite

An hour before the Super Bowl, when Jason Myers, Michael Dickson and Chris Stoll took the field at Levi’s Stadium to warm up, the Seahawks kicker noticed something strange: he did not feel the nervous shaking he had expected before the biggest game of his career. Instead of panic, there was a calmness that was almost unsettling in its normality. “I was sitting with Dickson and said, ‘It worries me that I’m this calm,’” Myers recalls. His teammate replied that he felt exactly the same way. That shared confidence, forged through years of working together, helped explain what happened next: Myers made five field goals, a Super Bowl record, and the Seahawks defeated New England 29–13. According to coaches and players, the chemistry among the kicker, punter and long snapper — along with the depth of the special-teams unit — gives Seattle a chance to once again field the league’s best special teams this season.

Last season was a triumph for the Seahawks’ third phase. The team scored five touchdowns during the regular season through special-teams plays, the best mark in the NFL. Returner Rashid Shaheed deserves special mention. Signed in early November, he helped the team overcome a 16-point deficit with a 58-yard punt return against the Rams in December, ultimately securing home-field advantage in the playoffs. In the conference championship game, Dickson became the hero by placing all five of his punts inside the opponent’s 20-yard line. One was recovered by the Seahawks after a Rams fumble, leading to a touchdown and a decisive advantage. “We treated our roles with the same seriousness as the roles on offense and defense,” says fullback Brady Russell, the special teams’ unofficial captain.

Now the key question is whether the team can repeat that success. On paper, everything points to yes. The front office retained its core group: Myers, Dickson and Stoll are entering their fourth season together. Special-teams coordinator Jay Harbaugh says keeping the trio was a crucial factor. “When there is chemistry and trust, it takes less time to get synchronized than it does with a newcomer,” he explains. Shaheed has also re-signed for three years, while Tori Horton is returning from injury. Before getting hurt in Week 8, Horton set a franchise record with a 95-yard punt return for a touchdown. Russell signed a two-year, $4.8 million extension, helping preserve the core of the blocking and coverage units.

The only significant departure is Derick Young, who served as one of the outside defenders on returns and was remembered for a spectacular recovery in the conference championship game. He left for the Raiders as a free agent. Myers, however, reminds everyone that nothing can be taken for granted in the NFL. His own career is proof: after playing Division II college football at Marist, he went undrafted, worked as a parking attendant in San Diego and played in the Arena League before making an NFL roster. Following an unsuccessful stint in Jacksonville and his release by Seattle in 2018, he joined the Jets with what was virtually his final opportunity, earning only $705,000 that season. After taking advantage of that chance, Myers returned to Seattle and has since set franchise records for field goals and points. His numbers last year were remarkable: 171 points in the regular season, third-most in league history, and a record 206 including the playoffs. His major contribution in the win over Indianapolis, when he made six field goals — including the game-winner from 56 yards with 22 seconds remaining — was one of the season’s brightest moments.

The secret to success lies not only in the individual players’ skill but also in mental preparation. Myers admits that his calmness before the Super Bowl sounds like a cliché, but it allowed him to perform in his usual rhythm. During the offseason, he allows himself rare moments of reflection, spending time with the family and friends who supported him through his long journey from parking cars to the top of the NFL. Nevertheless, as two missed attempts in the first preseason games showed, the process of correcting mistakes never ends. For the Seahawks, the main challenge is not losing the synergy that turned special teams into a genuine offensive weapon capable of changing the course of any game.

For clarity, here are some key terms: a “punt” is a kick used to give the ball to the opponent far from one’s own end zone; a “long snapper” delivers the precise snap between his legs to the kicker or punter; a “return” is a play in which a player catches an opponent’s punt or kickoff and tries to advance the ball as far as possible toward the opponent’s end zone; a “field goal” is a kick worth three points. A “gunner” is a specialist who races downfield toward the returner, attempting to prevent him from gaining yardage and tackle him as quickly as possible.

As reported by The Seattle Times, the Seahawks have every chance this season not only to match but surpass last year’s results if the retained core continues to operate with the same cohesion it displayed on the way to the title.

Surprises in the Seahawks’ First Injury Report: Emmanwori Questionable Against the Patriots

The Seattle Seahawks’ first injury report of the season contained a surprise that could significantly affect the balance of power in the opening game against the New England Patriots. Safety Nick Emmanwori unexpectedly appeared as a limited participant, even though he had not taken part in any on-field work earlier in the offseason. This is the first official confirmation that the player has returned to practice with the team, but his availability for Wednesday’s game remains highly uncertain, and the coaching staff appears to be preparing backup plans in case he cannot play.

The situation is complicated by health issues affecting another projected starting safety, Ty Okada, who missed Sunday’s practice entirely because of a hamstring strain. With only three safeties on the active roster, including Julian Love, the position’s depth has become a critical concern. The practice squad does include experienced players who can provide cover, and the club has already taken steps to strengthen the group by bringing back D’Anthony Bell on Saturday. Bell successfully replaced Emmanwori in the starting lineup during games last season.

Emmanwori’s injury is part of a long-running issue dating back to the first game of 2025 against San Francisco. He injured his right ankle then and aggravated it several days before the Super Bowl. Notably, he played nearly every snap in the championship game against the Patriots and was heavily involved in blitz packages that disrupted quarterback Drake Maye from the opening moments. After the season, however, he required arthroscopic surgery, and his recovery lasted throughout the summer.

The coaching staff now faces a difficult dilemma. On one hand, it would be hard to leave such a versatile player out of the rematch against a major rival, especially because his aggressive style helped Seattle in the Super Bowl. On the other, putting him on the field without full preparation — with a long week before the September 20 game against Arizona — could be an unnecessary risk. Linebacker Ernest Jones IV suggested in his comments that the team is mentally prepared to play without Emmanwori. He called him an “alien” with unlimited abilities but emphasized that the priority now is to focus on the players who are available.

If Emmanwori does not play and Okada also fails to recover, the coaches will have to improvise. One option would be defensive reshuffling involving a third linebacker. That could bring Tyrice Knight to the forefront. Knight had an excellent training camp and was named the game’s top player in the preseason matchup against Dallas. Last season, he began as the starting weakside linebacker before losing the job to Drake Thomas. His versatility and aggressive approach could prove useful now, when the team needs to compensate for the absence of a safety in the deep secondary. During camp, head coach Mike Macdonald said he was considering how to use all three of his quality linebackers at the same time, and Emmanwori’s injury could provide the catalyst for that experiment.

For those less familiar with the details of American football, safeties are deep defenders who serve as the final line of defense against passing attacks. In the Seahawks’ scheme, the third safety functions as a versatile hybrid who can help in coverage or rush the quarterback. That was Emmanwori’s role, which is why replacing him requires tactical flexibility. Linebackers are second-level defenders who primarily defend against the run and short passes but can also join the pass rush in certain schemes.

It is noteworthy that the club did not rush to bring Bell back to the practice squad, giving him time to consider other offers around the league. That suggests the original plan was based on Emmanwori returning quickly, but the situation has now changed. The team does have other experienced insurance options, and Rodney Thomas II — who has 26 career starts with Indianapolis — appears to be the most logical candidate to replace Okada in the deep secondary.

In any case, the intrigue will continue until kickoff, as the coaching staff will make its final roster decisions on game day. For Seahawks fans, that will add to the tension: playing the reigning champion on the road is a serious test, and much will depend on how smoothly the defense performs without key players. As Jones noted, the defenders are eager to take the field alongside Knight, and this game could mark the beginning of a new chapter in the young linebacker’s career. He has already said he is ready to “stack days” and wait for his opportunity.

Source: The Seattle Times

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Why Sound Transit Will Install Fare Gates in Four Years

Sound Transit plans to install fare gates at 14 light-rail stations, but passengers will not be able to use them until at least late 2029 — and more likely in 2030. The agency’s board has already allocated $6 million for design and preparation, while the total cost of the work is estimated at $87 million. Before the system launches, fare evaders could avoid paying an additional $120 million, according to estimates, even as local residents continue funding transit through taxes.

The four-year timeline is explained by the large number of sequential steps involved. Sound Transit must prepare bidding documents, select a contractor, order and manufacture the equipment, deliver it and install it. In addition, software must be developed and tested for paper tickets and the regional ORCA system.

ORCA allows passengers to pay for trips by card or phone, verifies eligibility to ride and calculates fares, taking transfers and discounts into account. The fare gates must exchange data with the central system, monitor entries and exits, operate during temporary communication outages and work properly with different fare structures. As a result, the project involves not only installing equipment but also developing, testing and certifying software. The agency must also ensure accessibility for people with disabilities and determine what will happen to employees who currently assist passengers and check fares.

For decades, the agency has relied on an honor system without fare gates. After the first line opened in 2009, inspectors periodically checked passengers, but inspections were largely suspended in 2020 and 2021 because of social tensions. Enforcement is now gradually returning, but fines are rarely issued. As a result, the share of passengers who pay their fares has fallen from roughly 90% in the early 2010s to 63% today.

Fare gates are planned for the busiest stations — from Northgate to International District/Chinatown, as well as in Lynnwood, at SeaTac Airport, in Federal Way, Bellevue and Redmond. These 14 stations handle about 85% of all trips. Seven surface stations, including stops in Rainier Valley, SoDo and some Bellevue stations, will remain ungated for now.

Their exclusion is related to the stations’ physical layouts. These stations may have limited space, multiple entrances, open platforms and complicated pedestrian flows. In Rainier Valley and SoDo, fare gates could interfere with the movement of pedestrians, buses, cars and emergency vehicles. In Bellevue, the agency must account for bus transfers and the stations’ connections to private and municipal facilities. These factors complicate design and approvals and increase costs, but they do not mean the stations have been permanently excluded from the program.

The most difficult and expensive reconstruction will involve Lynnwood City Center Station. Its narrow concourses will have to be adapted for fare gates, ticket machines will be moved outside, and canopies, fencing and overnight security grilles will be added.

Experience in other cities shows that similar projects can indeed take years. Vancouver TransLink took five years to equip 53 stations, while BART in the San Francisco Bay Area spent six years replacing fare gates at 50 stations. The installation of 715 new devices across the BART system itself took only 11 months. Much of the time was spent securing funding, developing the design and conducting testing. BART ultimately chose seven-foot gates with transparent panels and initially activated them at just two stations to test how the system worked.

The impact of fare gates is mixed. BART reported a decline in crime and less time spent on minor repairs and vandalism cleanup. Los Angeles also considers fare gates useful for protecting low-income passengers from disorder. However, studies have found no convincing evidence that stricter enforcement consistently reduces crime in cities such as Boston, Vancouver and Toronto. The outcome depends on local conditions and the quality of enforcement.

For Sound Transit, the financial incentive is weaker than it is for BART: fare revenue accounts for less than 3% of the overall budget, while tax revenue remains substantial. Political disputes could therefore slow the project. Sound Transit is responsible for the Link system, its stations, equipment and access control, while bus operators, including King County Metro and Community Transit, manage their own routes and receive revenue from the corresponding trips. Local governments are responsible for city streets, permits and some transportation infrastructure.

ORCA revenue is distributed under regional rules based on trips and transfers, while capital projects are funded through the budgets and programs of individual agencies. Disagreements over expenses, technical standards, revenue distribution and required approvals could affect both the budget and the installation schedule.

Passengers who pay an average of about $700 per person each year in transportation taxes are becoming increasingly frustrated with fare evaders. Sound Transit leaders believe the system has grown large enough that fare gates are now necessary, while experts note that Seattle is better suited to installing them than some other cities because of its large number of underground stations.

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Based on: Why does Sound Transit need 4 years to install light rail fare gates?

Washington State Workers Protest Wage Talks Again

On Saturday, at least 300 Washington state employees gathered outside the Capitol in Olympia, calling on Gov. Bob Ferguson’s administration to reach fair collective bargaining agreements with their unions. Among them was Jeanette Obelcz, a child-protection worker who said the state must respect the employees who keep it running. The action was the second protest in a week and focused on difficult working conditions in services for people with disabilities and the protection of vulnerable children.

The union says negotiations remain far from complete. Workers are seeking not only raises but also improved workplace standards and clear rules governing the use of artificial intelligence. Mike Yestramski, president of the Washington Federation of State Employees, said the union was not seeking major additional costs for the state budget and was proposing solutions that would not require significant funding. The negotiators’ next meeting is scheduled for Thursday.

The governor’s administration attributes the difficult situation to a budget crisis and cuts in federal support under the Donald Trump administration. Ferguson spokesperson Brionna Aho said the governor values the work of state employees and is working to prepare a balanced budget while preserving essential services for the most vulnerable residents. Protesters, however, believe budget problems should not be shifted onto workers. After the speeches, they marched around the Capitol, and one sign carried a direct message to the governor: “Bob, give us back our money.”

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Based on: WA state workers walk out again over pay negotiations with governor

Technical Problems and Nighttime Tragedies: Seattle News Digest

An Alaska Airlines plane made a steep descent over California because of a mechanical issue, Belltown was shaken by a wave of shootings that left three people dead, and experts are debating the Seattle Seahawks’ key player for the upcoming season.

Alaska Airlines flight makes emergency landing in Fresno after mechanical issue

On Sunday evening, passengers on Alaska Airlines Flight 671 from Santa Ana, California, to Seattle ended up in Fresno instead of following the scheduled route. The plane, which departed John Wayne Airport at 9:08 p.m. local time, was forced to make an unscheduled landing after the crew detected signs of a mechanical problem. The most alarming aspect of the incident was the aircraft’s rapid descent: according to tracking data, it lost about 30,000 feet, descending from a cruising altitude of 40,000 feet to approximately 10,000 feet before diverting to Fresno Yosemite International Airport.

The airline responded promptly, confirming that the flight had been diverted because of an “indication of a mechanical issue,” while emphasizing that the landing was routine and did not require emergency measures. The company said the aircraft landed safely and that passengers would be taken to their destination on another plane Monday. Although the airline did not disclose details about the malfunction, the descent from 40,000 to 10,000 feet is a standard procedure when an aircraft needs to leave its cruising altitude quickly. Even a partial loss of cabin pressure or other technical failure requires an immediate descent to a safe altitude.

For those unfamiliar with aviation procedures, it is worth explaining that a cruising altitude of 40,000 feet is a standard operating level for modern narrow-body airliners, where the air is thin and fuel consumption is minimized. Descending to 10,000 feet means returning to denser layers of the atmosphere, where oxygen deprivation is no longer a threat to passengers and crew even in the event of a loss of cabin pressure. Such a maneuver is typically carried out after pressure sensors are triggered or when other mechanical abnormalities arise and pilots decide not to take risks, instead choosing the nearest suitable airport. In this case, Fresno was the optimal choice, located roughly halfway between Southern California and Seattle.

The incident comes amid heightened scrutiny of Alaska Airlines’ safety record following a high-profile incident in January, when part of the fuselage of one of the carrier’s Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft blew out in flight. Although Sunday’s flight involved a different type of aircraft and was unrelated to that incident, any mention of the airline in connection with “mechanical problems” is bound to raise questions among travelers. Still, experts noted that the safe completion of the flight and the swift arrangement of a replacement aircraft demonstrate that safety protocols are working: the crew followed procedures precisely, and passengers may not even have realized how serious the situation was until the plane began its descent.

Flight data published by the source indicates that the aircraft took off almost on time, meaning the delay arose during the flight itself. For an airline, incidents like this represent not only a logistical challenge but also a reputational risk, especially in an era when every event reaches social media almost instantly. Nevertheless, Alaska Airlines once again demonstrated its commitment to the principle that it is better to be safe than sorry. That is perhaps the main takeaway for passengers: even when something appears to go wrong, the aviation safety system continues to function. The only remaining question is what exactly caused the malfunction and whether the official investigation will ensure that a similar incident does not happen again.

Tragic weekend in Belltown: wave of violence leaves three dead in 24 hours

The Labor Day weekend turned into a tragedy for Seattle residents. In the heart of the city, the Belltown neighborhood was hit by a series of brazen shootings that injured seven people within 24 hours. Three of them, including a minor, died at the scene or from their injuries. A city usually associated with technological prosperity and a comfortable lifestyle once again confronted the disturbing reality of street violence, leaving police and residents shocked and bewildered.

The latest and most widely reported incident occurred late Sunday evening near the intersection of Elliott Avenue and Bell Street, just one block from the waterfront, when gunshots rang out. Officers arriving at the scene found a 17-year-old boy suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite immediate attempts to resuscitate him, medical personnel pronounced him dead at the scene. A 21-year-old man who had also been shot was nearby and was taken to Harborview Medical Center in critical condition. Investigators said the shooting was preceded by a verbal altercation, but no suspects had been arrested by Monday morning.

The incident was only the final point in a series of violent events that began early Sunday. At about 12:40 a.m., half a mile north of the site of the latest tragedy, unknown assailants opened fire on a group of people near Clay Street and Denny Way. One person was killed and three others were wounded. Just two hours later, shortly before 2 a.m., another killing shocked the city: a woman was shot inside a vehicle at the intersection of Blanchard Street and Third Avenue. Police are investigating all three incidents, but no suspects have been arrested, adding to the tension in the neighborhood.

The statistics are alarming not only because of the number of victims but also because of the geographic concentration of the crimes. Belltown is a relatively affluent and densely populated Seattle neighborhood known for its fashionable restaurants, nightclubs and modern residential complexes. It is difficult to imagine so many shootings occurring in such a short period in the center of the city, where the streets are usually crowded. For experts and criminologists, however, the pattern is not entirely unexpected: they have long pointed to links between the unregulated circulation of firearms, street conflicts—often connected to disputes between groups—and the rising number of fatal outcomes.

The death of the 17-year-old is particularly troubling. Despite Seattle’s strict gun-storage laws, young people continue to become both victims and participants in such incidents. Psychologists and social workers emphasize that tragedies like these destroy the community’s sense of security and require not only a police response but also long-term prevention programs focused on at-risk youth.

While officials urge residents to remain calm and report any information that could assist the investigation, Belltown residents are living in fear. Calls for increased patrols and more surveillance cameras have already appeared on social media. However, experience shows that street crime cannot be eradicated through enforcement measures alone. Every shooting leaves a scar on the urban fabric, and rebuilding trust between police and residents is a process no less difficult than apprehending those responsible.

In light of these events, it is worth recalling details that may have been overlooked amid the rush of the initial reports. First, the timing of all three incidents indicates that the attacks took place at night, when most law-abiding residents were already at home. Second, the crimes occurred in areas known for active nightlife, making them particularly brazen. Finally, the fact that no arrests have been made in any of the cases points to a weak evidentiary foundation at this early stage. As reported by The Seattle Times, police are continuing to interview witnesses and review surveillance footage, but no findings have yet been released. Residents are advised to remain vigilant, avoid walking alone late at night whenever possible, and immediately report suspicious activity to 911.

Who is really the Seattle Seahawks’ most important player in 2026? It’s not so obvious

When discussing a team returning 20 of its 22 starters and boasting one of the strongest defenses in the league, identifying its most important player becomes a genuine puzzle. At first glance, the answer seems obvious: quarterback Sam Darnold, who signed a record contract and is expected to lead the team to the playoffs. But a closer look suggests that the Seahawks’ fortunes this season may depend not only on Darnold’s arm but also on unexpected figures whose names few would have called central a year ago.

Seattle Sports conducted an interesting poll among its experts, and the results showed how unusual the team’s current situation is. While everything in other teams, such as Buffalo, revolves around MVP Josh Allen, Seattle is a rare example of a team with several players who could prove decisive even with a star quarterback on the roster. That speaks to the depth of the squad and shows that the team is not relying on one leader but on a system in which every component matters.

Michael Bumpus, one of the leading analysts, made an unexpected choice in favor of rookie Jadarian Price. The logic is compelling: we have already seen the “film” on Darnold—his highs, lows, interceptions and clutch drives. But what do we know about Price, a first-round draft pick? Almost nothing, and that uncertainty could become either his greatest advantage or his biggest problem. The team lost Kenneth Walker in free agency, Zach Charbonnet is expected to miss at least four weeks with an injury, and the entire running game will rest on the shoulders of an inexperienced rookie and a couple of veterans. Darnold also plays his best football when he can use play-action effectively, and that requires a consistent running game. Last season, he ranked third in the league in yards per pass attempt off play-action—a statistic directly tied to how much respect opposing defenses have for the running game.

Stacy Rost offered an even less obvious choice: defensive end Leonard Williams. At first, it may seem strange to call a 31-year-old veteran the most important player on an offensive team. But a closer look at the Seahawks’ offseason moves along the defensive line makes the reasoning clear. The team has obvious concerns in its cornerback room: it signed players with questionable reputations—one is under investigation, another missed the entire training camp, and a third was acquired in a trade from another club. When a team has problems in the last line of defense, the only solution is to apply constant pressure to the opposing quarterback. That is where Williams becomes the shield protecting all the weak spots. If the pass rush works, the secondary’s shortcomings may never be exposed. If it does not, the Seahawks could face long evenings in which opposing offenses pick their defense apart.

Interestingly, both experts agree on one point: Darnold is the “correct” answer, but also the obvious one. His contribution is apparent, his mistakes are predictable and his strengths are well known. The real intrigue lies in identifying the X-factor who could turn a good team into a championship contender. Will it be a lightning-fast rookie who suddenly emerges as the season’s breakout star, or an experienced veteran who anchors the defense in crucial moments? Time will tell. One thing is certain: unlike many teams whose fate depends on a single player, Seattle is in the enviable position of having several potential keys to success. That range of possibilities may be the biggest storyline of the upcoming season.

Still, it is worth remembering that all predictions are merely theories. As experience shows, the most important player often becomes obvious only after an injury or an unexpected collapse. For now, as experts debate, the team is preparing for the season. One important detail stands out amid all the discussion: the Seahawks’ offense is bringing back all five starters from an offensive line that produced its best performance in a decade last year. So perhaps the most important player is not the one catching or throwing the ball, but the five people who create the conditions for everyone else to succeed. In its report, Seattle Sports notes that the offensive line is the foundation on which the entire structure rests—from the running game to protecting Darnold from sacks. If that mechanism breaks down, all discussions about the most important player become meaningless, because in football, as in life, everything is decided by the details and by the people who make someone else’s job possible.

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Seattle: Coffee, Football and Lessons in Loyalty

A digest of Seattle’s main stories: the city’s coffee culture, the Seahawks’ change of ownership and the Patriots’ preparations for the sonic hell of Lumen Field.

Seattle: America’s Coffee Capital, Where the Green Siren Isn’t Everything

Seattle rightly holds the title of coffee capital of the United States, but focusing exclusively on the world-famous green siren means missing the most interesting part. The city that gave the world latte art and the specialty-coffee industry is sustained not only by giants, but also by thousands of independent roasters and cozy cafés that keep locals energized through both endless summer days and drizzly winter evenings. These small coffee shops shape Seattle’s true character, and they are exactly what travelers seeking authentic flavor should look for.

If you arrive in Seattle as a pilgrim hoping to experience the roots of modern coffee culture, your route should begin at the legendary Espresso Vivace. It was here, in the early 1990s, that the art of drawing patterns in milk foam—the same art now seen in every self-respecting café around the world—was born. The owner, David Schomer, an engineer by training, approached espresso preparation with scientific precision, experimenting with temperature, pressure and grind size. The result of his work is still considered a benchmark. Thick, velvety crema, a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness, and a finely crafted rosetta on the surface—everything here has been perfected. Stop by on a weekday morning and you will see a line of locals patiently waiting for their ritual. What better recommendation could there be?

For those who want to stay on the cutting edge, there is Slow Day Coffee. This is not merely a café, but a true flavor laboratory, where roasters work with microlots—tiny batches of beans from specific farms, sometimes even from individual sections of a single plantation. You will not find a conventional menu of cappuccinos and lattes here, at least not in the usual sense. Instead, the barista will offer filter coffee prepared according to special recipes designed to reveal the terroir and distinctive notes of each variety. This is no longer simply a drink for staying awake, but a tasting experience akin to wine. Be prepared to pay more for a cup than the city average, but the flavor journey will be entirely different.

Still, Seattle would not be Seattle without its relaxed atmosphere, and there is room here for establishments where coffee shares space with bicycles and repair stands. A vivid example is Peloton Bicycle Shop & Cafe, where you can drink an excellent Americano and eat an egg sandwich while your two-wheeled companion gets new brake pads. This combination is not merely a marketing gimmick, but a reflection of the local way of life: Seattleites are used to combining pleasure with practicality, and coffee is an inseparable part of everyday life, whether they are out walking, working or pursuing a hobby.

It is worth noting that competition in Seattle is fierce, and only those who truly brew coffee at the highest level survive here. Locals are genuine connoisseurs. They understand the origin of beans, roast levels and extraction methods no less well than professional baristas. So when it comes to choosing a place, they vote with their feet, and the lines at Espresso Vivace and Slow Day Coffee are the best evidence. Travelers should remember that Seattle is not only Pike Place Market and the Space Needle. It is also the city that taught America how to drink proper coffee.

For a fuller immersion in the city’s atmosphere, be sure to explore Capitol Hill, which has the highest concentration of independent coffee shops per square mile, or the industrial neighborhoods of Fremont, where roasters often host public tastings. It is important to understand, however, that this list from Condé Nast Traveler is only a starting point. The truly best coffee can be found in the most unexpected places, simply by following the aroma drifting from an open door. But if you want guaranteed enjoyment and benchmark quality, start with these ten establishments recommended by the authoritative publication. And remember: in Seattle, there is no bad coffee—only good, excellent and outstanding coffee.

One especially noteworthy fact is that Seattle’s coffee culture was shaped over decades. The first café of the future global empire opened here in 1971, but independent players such as Espresso Vivace set the city on its path toward quality. Today, dozens of micro-roasters operate in the city, supplying fresh beans to restaurants and cafés throughout the West Coast. The economic impact of the coffee industry on the region is difficult to overstate: thousands of jobs, a steady flow of tourists and local pride. When you drink coffee in Seattle, you become part of a more-than-half-century history begun by enthusiasts and continued by a new generation of creative entrepreneurs.

The Seahawks’ New Owners: How Seattle Said Goodbye to Its Teams—and What It Says About Change to Come

The upcoming press conference of the Seattle Seahawks’ new owners, the Koh family, is prompting fans to recall uneasily that the first words of new owners often prove prophetic, though not necessarily in the way they would like. Seattle’s sports history is full of examples of attractive promises colliding with harsh reality. Now the city is holding its breath once again, wondering whether this moment will become another painful reminder that, in professional sports, loyalty is merely a business variable. Vinod Khosla, the technology billionaire and co-founder of Sun Microsystems, has already given people something to discuss. In his first public comments after the NFL approved the deal, he admitted that he began following football in 1976, after emigrating from India, and that his heart was captured by the Pittsburgh Steelers. To some, this is an innocent nostalgic recollection. But in an era of hyper-sensitive public opinion, even such a remark can be interpreted as a sign that the new owners may not share the local passion.

As a Seattle Times columnist notes in an article, nearly every change of ownership in Seattle’s history began with optimistic speeches that later gave way to years of disappointment. Consider the Seahawks’ first official owners, the Nordstrom group led by Lloyd Nordstrom, which paid $16 million for the franchise in 1974. At the time, Herman Sarkowsky, the team’s first chief executive, said they were “living proof of the faith that professional football is viable here.” Yet in 1988, that faith was sold to California developer Ken Behring for $80 million, and his words at the introductory press conference—“Winning is paramount; financial considerations are secondary”—now sound bitterly ironic. Behring tried to move the team to Southern California in the mid-1990s, and only NFL intervention and Paul Allen’s arrival in 1997 saved the club from relocation. Allen spoke then of the importance of keeping the team for the city’s “economy, civic pride and national visibility.” Unlike many of his predecessors, he kept his word, although his $194 million investment had turned into $9.6 billion three decades later.

The Mariners’ history is even more instructive. Fans endured a succession of owners who made grand promises and delivered dismal results. George Argyros, who bought the team in 1981, answered a question about his motivation with devastating candor: “A man always wants to know whether he can be successful in more than one field.” His eight years in charge showed that he could not, and in 1989 the team was purchased by Indian businessmen Jeff Smulyan and Michael Browning, who declared that they had “fallen in love with Seattle.” Their love evaporated within three years, and only a deal with Nintendo, which put up $75 million to keep the club in place, prevented the Mariners from moving to another city. The latest owner, John Stanton, promised “a parade celebrating a World Series victory” in 2016. That parade may have come close last season, when the team was one step away from the first championship series in its history. But the lesson remains the same: the new owners’ words are merely an advance payment that may never be honored.

Seattle’s deepest wound is the story of the Sonics, which ended in the most traumatic way. Barry Ackerley, who bought the team in 1983, swore he would preserve “both the team and ownership in Seattle”—and he did, but only until 2001, when he sold the club to Howard Schultz, the founder of Starbucks. Schultz, who said he was buying the Sonics out of a love of basketball and had held season tickets since 1982, promised to learn and support the team. He learned one crucial thing: how to sell an asset profitably. Five years later, he sold the team to Oklahoma City’s Clay Bennett for $350 million—a man who had candidly admitted in an interview with The Seattle Times six months before the deal that he was “keenly interested in bringing the team to Oklahoma City.” Bennett tried to deny the obvious, promising “twelve months of good-faith work” on an agreement for a new arena. But the outcome is well known: the Sonics moved, and the city has never forgiven that betrayal.

Now the Koh family, which reportedly paid around $6 billion for the most expensive club in NFL history, will step before the microphones at Lumen Field. Their words will inevitably be compared with those of their predecessors—from Behring’s empty promises to Schultz’s sincere but unfulfilled statements. Vinod Khosla has already shown that his approach may differ from tradition. He has spoken about football with an engineer’s mind, calling it “the most fascinating technology platform.” But Seattle fans care less about how the new owners view the game in general than about whether the Seahawks will remain a team in which local identity matters more than the franchise’s balance-sheet value. In a city where loyalty is measured in decades of devotion to clubs that have often returned only part of that devotion, every new name on the owner’s plaque inspires both hope and cynical anticipation of a catch. First impressions do matter—but what follows matters even more.

How Boston Is Preparing for the Hell of Lumen Field: Silence as a Weapon

In American football, few challenges compare with the one awaiting the New England Patriots in their season opener against the Seattle Seahawks. It is not only about the opponent’s quality, but also about the “12th Man”—the fans who turn Lumen Field into a genuine sonic trap. For the visiting team, this means one thing: familiar verbal communication at the line of scrimmage stops working, and composure, precise gestures and, of course, the silent count become essential. That is the approach the Patriots’ coaching staff is relying on, understanding that the team’s ability to handle this challenge will largely determine the outcome of the entire game.

Preparation for this acoustic nightmare began long before the flight to Seattle. At the training facility in Foxborough, coach Mike Vrabel, acting like a conductor of an orchestra of chaos, gave the sound engineers their cue, and they turned the music up to maximum volume. At times, vintage Mötley Crüe thundered from the speakers—not merely for atmosphere, but to simulate the inhuman decibel levels that would descend on the players at Seattle’s stadium. New England special teams coordinator Jeremy Springer, who knows the atmosphere firsthand from his time with the Los Angeles Rams and annual visits to face a fierce rival, makes no secret of his respect for the local crowd. He describes the environment in a few concise words: “Loud. Really loud. The fans there are tremendous; they love their team.” Springer clearly remembers how, in 2005, that wall of sound caused the New York Giants to commit 11 false starts—a record that still inspires awe. To him, the upcoming game is not simply a match, but an opportunity to test his young team’s character under extreme conditions. He calls it “an incredible experience,” but behind that optimism lies a harsh reality: taking the crowd out of the game is the top priority.

The key to solving this problem will be the so-called silent count, which quarterback Drake Maye says he used in every road game last season. Maye, radiating confidence, believes the team has “a good handle” on this aspect. He notes that operating in silence has its advantages and disadvantages, but the main thing is consistent repetition in practice. In the quarterback’s view, Vrabel and his staff have done an enormous amount of work to prepare the team. Now the players’ task is to avoid unnecessary penalties and maintain positive momentum on offense. However, it is not as simple as it may initially appear. The problem is compounded by individual battles along the line, especially at tackle. Will Campbell and Morgan Moses are in a particularly difficult position: because of the noise, they must react to the movement of the ball rather than the quarterback’s voice. Maye understands their difficulties. They have to watch a dangerous outside rusher while also trying to catch the precise moment of the snap, without being able to move too early.

If the linemen have a difficult job, the silent count becomes a genuine cognitive test for receivers and running backs. They must line up, memorize their routes, monitor possible shifts and still keep their eyes on the ball. Maye jokes that saying “just watch the ball” is easy, but in practice it requires enormous concentration and the ability to process many inputs at once. Receiver A.J. Brown develops the same point, emphasizing that under these conditions the opponent across the line gains an additional advantage by trying to confuse players and provoke a false start. Still, he notes that the offense has its own weapons to rely on. Ultimately, as quarterbacks coach Ashton Grant summarizes, everything comes down to synchronization and mutual understanding. Normally, a team communicates by voice, but when shouting is swallowed by the roar of the stands, alternative methods of conveying information—gestures, eye contact and coded signals—become many times more important. That silent cohesion will be the Patriots’ main weapon as they try to emerge victorious from the sonic inferno.

You may be interested in learning more about the team’s preparation from this Boston Globe article, which formed the basis of this analysis. Its author, Christopher Price, examines in detail the tactical nuances that could prove decisive in this matchup.

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Seahawks’ Defensive Losses and Overnight Shootings in Seattle

Even before the start of the NFL season, the Seattle Seahawks have encountered serious problems on defense. Two key safeties are injured, raising questions about the team’s game against the Patriots. Meanwhile, Belltown experienced two tragic shootings in a single night, claiming the lives of two people. The incidents have once again raised concerns about safety in the city center.

Seahawks Could Open the Season Against the Patriots Without Key Safeties

The Seattle Seahawks are about to begin a new NFL season, but the team has already run into serious personnel problems on defense. According to the first official injury report, published Sunday, the Seahawks could face the New England Patriots with a significant shortage of players at safety. The news comes as a surprise to fans, since the team had been preparing for the game with considerable optimism. Now, however, the coaching staff will have to get creative to fill the gaps in the secondary.

According to available information, defensive back Tai Okada missed Sunday’s practice because of a hamstring issue, while fellow safety Nick Emmanwori, who is recovering from offseason ankle surgery, was limited to only part of the session. The situation is made more difficult by the fact that Julian Love is now the only fully healthy player at safety on the Seahawks’ roster—if “fully healthy” is still the right description. The remaining safeties are either on the injured list or close to joining it. Although several days remain before the game, it is already clear that the team’s depth at the position is far from ideal.

When the Seahawks reduced their roster to the required 53 players last week, they deliberately kept only three true safeties: Love, Okada and Emmanwori. The decision made sense at the time, as all three were considered healthy and ready for the season. Now that two of them have appeared on the injury report, the coaching staff faces a difficult question: where will replacements come from for the season opener, which, it should be noted, takes place Wednesday night? The early schedule adds to the problem, leaving almost no time for the injured players to recover.

Emmanwori’s condition is particularly concerning. Defensive lineman Ernest Jones IV, regarded as a leader of the defense, offered reporters a fairly clear hint that fans should not expect the young safety to start. Jones called Emmanwori an “alien” capable of doing extraordinary things, but emphasized that the team was focused on the players who are available right now. Given that roughly six weeks have passed since the ankle surgery and Emmanwori still is not practicing at full strength, the chances of seeing him on the field Wednesday appear extremely slim. His return is nevertheless eagerly anticipated, as he was considered one of the defense’s most promising rookies.

Okada’s injury came as an unexpected development. Until Sunday, the club had not been required to publish injury reports, and reporters had been unable to fully monitor practices since the last preseason game in Kansas City. As a result, no one knows exactly how long Okada has been dealing with the hamstring problem or how serious it is. That creates additional uncertainty, forcing the Seahawks’ coaches to solve the puzzle at an accelerated pace.

If neither Okada nor Emmanwori can play, the Seahawks will have to turn to players on the practice squad. Fortunately, the team has four safeties there: Rodney Thomas II, AJ Finley, D’Anthony Bell and Maxen Hook. Finley and Bell already have experience playing for Seattle last season, which makes the task somewhat easier because they do not need to be taught the basic principles of the defensive system. Thomas is the most experienced of the group, having played 68 games for the Indianapolis Colts, making him the most likely candidate for a promotion to the active roster.

Defensive coordinator Aden Durde spoke enthusiastically about the players’ readiness to take the field. He said the entire team sees how much work they put into practice and that they are prepared to take advantage of the opportunity. Durde singled out Thomas in particular, praising his athleticism and ability to operate all over the field, especially in the deep zone, where reaction speed is crucial. He also highlighted Bell’s versatility. During training camp, Bell frequently filled Emmanwori’s role and can play not only as a traditional safety but also as an extra defender in the box.

The injury report also included several players at other positions. Guard Anthony Bradford (knee), wide receiver Tory Horton (hamstring) and tackle Josh Jones (knee) were also limited in Sunday’s practice. Bradford was injured in the preseason game in Tennessee and has not completed a full practice since. Jones, meanwhile, has dealt with chronic knee problems since joining Seattle. There was some good news, however: tight end AJ Barner, who serves as a captain, feels physically ready to play. Cornerback Julian Neal and running back Emanuel Wilson also practiced fully, providing a measure of cautious optimism.

The key takeaway is that the Seahawks are entering the new season with a weakened defense, while New England is unlikely to show any mercy. Wednesday’s game will be a major test of both the roster’s depth and the coaching staff, which must find a way to neutralize the opponent’s offensive threats without two of its key safeties. According to FOX 13 Seattle, the final decision on who will take the field will be made in the coming days. For now, however, it is clear that the coaches will have to improvise. This may be an ideal opportunity for young players to prove themselves, but it also represents a serious risk to the team’s chances in the very first game of the regular season.

Woman and Man Killed in Two Overnight Belltown Shootings

Seattle was shaken Sunday by two separate shootings in the Belltown neighborhood, occurring just over an hour apart and claiming the lives of two people. Three others were injured to varying degrees. The first incident occurred around 12:42 a.m. at the intersection of Denny Way and Clay Street, where police found two men suffering from gunshot wounds—one to the chest and the other to the abdomen. Both were rushed to Harborview Medical Center, but the man found on Denny Way died from his injuries. The second victim remains in critical but stable condition.

According to the preliminary investigation, which was assisted by the Real-Time Crime Center, the shooting was preceded by a fight involving three people. Detectives from the homicide unit and the gun-violence division are working to determine what led to the incident. Notably, shortly before the shots were fired, police broke up a street-racing incident at the same intersection. Authorities said the events were unrelated. Local residents, however, remain skeptical. They say similar nighttime street-racing gatherings have become routine, especially during long holiday weekends, and that bullets have struck windows of nearby residential buildings in the past.

The second tragedy occurred shortly before 2 a.m. near Third Avenue and Blanchard Street. A woman was inside a parked vehicle when an unknown assailant opened fire, striking her in the head and torso. She was taken to a hospital in critical condition but could not be saved. The suspect fled the scene and has not been arrested. Police emphasized that the two incidents were unrelated and asked anyone with information to call the tip line.

Many Belltown residents, most of whom requested anonymity, have expressed frustration with the authorities’ response. One resident told KOMO News that he was “disappointed that people are dying and doesn’t feel enough is being done to solve the problem,” adding that he would like to see Seattle become safe again. Another resident compared nighttime outings to “Russian roulette,” saying it is impossible to predict whether the next roar of engines will amount to nothing more than noise or lead to another tragedy.

Acting Police Chief André Sayers issued a written statement promising to “come together with the community to seek justice for the victims and their loved ones” and to “work tirelessly with partners to find long-term solutions.” Observers note, however, that similar promises have been made before, while the level of gun violence in the city continues to cause serious concern. The shootings also occurred amid recent statements from the mayor and police about increased security ahead of the Bumbershoot festival, which will take place just six weeks after a mass shooting downtown. The situation in Belltown, one of Seattle’s busiest neighborhoods, once again raises the need for a comprehensive approach to combating both street violence and its underlying causes—from the lack of accountability for street racers to the social hardship that often fuels criminal activity.

Jeffrey Springs: Seattle’s New Nightmare, or How an “Invisible” Pitcher Is Rewriting MLB History

Baseball is a game in which statistics can sometimes speak louder than any triumph, and a recent note from the game between the Athletics and the Seattle Mariners is a striking example. At first glance, it is simply a dry line in the record book: Oakland pitcher Jeffrey Springs has a career ERA—the average number of earned runs allowed per nine innings—of 2.03 against Seattle. Behind that figure, however, lies a record of dominance that places Springs alongside the legends of the modern era. According to data published on the official MLB.com website, since his debut in 2018, that mark is the second-lowest in Major League Baseball among all pitchers who have thrown at least 50 innings against the Mariners. This is more than a statistic—it is a declaration of complete superiority.

For those unfamiliar with the finer points of baseball, an ERA below 3.00 is considered elite, while a mark near 2.00 represents an almost unattainable level of excellence. A 2.03 ERA means that, over the equivalent of a complete game, Seattle scores only a little more than two runs against Springs on average. Considering that modern baseball is an era of powerful offenses and dangerous hitters, such suppression of an opponent looks almost anomalous. Even more intriguing is the context: who occupies the top spot in the rankings? The note does not reveal that intriguing name, but the fact that Springs has outperformed other recognized “Mariners killers” says a great deal. Analysts say Springs’ success comes not from the speed of his pitches but from their unusual movement and his ability to change speeds, disrupting Seattle hitters’ timing.

Springs’ career is itself a story of almost Hollywood proportions. For a long time, he was a journeyman—a player who moved between clubs and leagues without a guaranteed place in a rotation. His breakthrough came with the Tampa Bay Rays, where he evolved from a versatile swingman into a starting pitcher. Now, with Oakland, he seems to have found his personal “victim” in Seattle. His success against the Mariners is clearly no coincidence: over the years, he has faced them at different stages, both during the regular season and in tense divisional series, and his pitches have remained unreadable to them each time. In today’s game, which ended with an Athletics victory, Springs once again confirmed his status by preventing the opponent from mounting a significant attack at any key moment.

Why does this matter for the current 2026 season? The Seattle Mariners are considered one of the favorites in the American League West, and their offense is built on discipline and the ability to wait for a pitcher’s mistake. Springs, however, appears to have cracked their code. Whenever Oakland faces Seattle, the Mariners’ manager is forced to alter the lineup to minimize the damage caused by Springs’ left-handed pitching, but it rarely helps. The psychological factor may even be more important than the physical one: Seattle hitters step to the plate against Springs already feeling doomed, leading to rushed swings and unnecessary strikeouts.

For the Athletics, a young team in the middle of a rebuild, such “specialists” against specific opponents are a gold mine. They allow the club to steal wins from stronger teams, which is crucial in the wild-card race. As for Springs himself, a 2.03 career mark against one of the league’s best teams is not merely a source of pride but also a significant argument in future contract negotiations. For now, fans can enjoy watching one pitcher turn a major rivalry into his own showcase. In a world where every run is precious and every pitch can prove decisive, players like Springs remind us that baseball is not always won through strength, but often through intelligence and adaptability. His numbers against Seattle are not a fluke but a pattern that no coaching staff has yet managed to decipher.

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Gaming Passion and Urban Anxiety: A Seattle News Digest

A review of the day’s top stories: the PAX West gaming festival, roster problems ahead of the NFL opener, a tragedy in Belltown, and the security challenges facing a major city.

PAX West 2026: Seattle Again Becomes the Capital of the Gaming World

This Labor Day weekend, Seattle turned into a true temple for fans of video games, board games, and pop culture. Thousands of visitors filled the Seattle Convention Center, where one of North America’s most significant gaming festivals—PAX West—got underway. From the first day, the festival was filled with a celebratory spirit: the center’s corridors were crowded with colorful cosplayers recreating their favorite anime characters, while the halls buzzed with discussions about new releases and nostalgic memories of gaming classics.

PAX West is more than an exhibition. It is a massive gathering where generations of gamers, developers, artists, and curious spectators come together. This year, organizers emphasized diversity: visitors could find both cutting-edge game demos using the latest technologies and areas devoted to retro consoles, where older attendees nostalgically worked the joysticks of classic systems. Board-game zones—from card decks to complex strategy games—also drew groups of new friends around the tables. Organizers say that a sense of community and the exchange of experience are the festival’s greatest values, and that spirit was especially evident this year.

For those unfamiliar with gaming, PAX, or Penny Arcade Expo, is an annual event that began in 2004 as a small gathering for webcomic fans and has since grown into a large-scale show held in several cities around the world. Seattle’s PAX West is considered one of the most authentic editions because it retains a spirit of independence and accessibility, unlike its more commercialized counterparts. Cosplay, which attracts so much public attention, is the art of transforming oneself into a character. It requires not only sewing skills but also acting ability, and the discipline is represented here at the highest level. In addition to games, the festival features developer panels, lectures on game narrative, and even concerts. The program runs for all four days, promising an intense and packed atmosphere.

The contrast between high-tech innovations and the warm atmosphere of face-to-face interaction gives the event an added appeal. While some visitors lined up to be among the first to try demos of highly anticipated blockbusters, others happily played retro platformers on old televisions, bringing smiles to passersby. Many guests attend PAX West not for new announcements, but for the chance to meet like-minded people, take part in board-game tournaments, or simply wander through the exhibition halls in search of rare collectibles. The region’s character also plays a role: Seattle has always been known for its technological spirit, and PAX West fits naturally into the cultural identity of a city that is home to giants such as Valve and Nintendo of America.

Although the article published by Seattle Refined offers only initial impressions, it is already clear that organizers have made every effort to create an inclusive environment. Separate areas for families with children and quiet rooms for rest all show that PAX West aims to reach as broad an audience as possible. The rest of the festival promises to be just as vibrant, with appearances by creators of popular webcomics and indie games, as well as major surprises developers have saved for the finale. For Seattle, this weekend has already become an excellent reminder that the entertainment industry is not just an assembly line, but also a place for creative expression and live dialogue—something more valuable than ever in the virtual age.

Seattle and New England Approach the Opener With Roster Problems

The first official day of the NFL season brought the release of the opening injury reports, and it is already clear that neither team will enter this major matchup at full strength. The situation is particularly tense for the defending champions from Seattle, where eight players appeared on the injury list, although most were still able to participate in practice.

The most concerning news for the Seahawks involves the safety position. The team lost Ty Okada, who missed the entire practice because of a hamstring injury. There was also an encouraging development: Nick Emmanwori, who missed all of training camp after ankle surgery, finally returned to practice on a limited basis. That is extremely important for roster depth, given the heavy workload these players will face against the opponent’s powerful offense. Seattle’s defense also lost one of its defensive linemen, Josh Jones, who practiced on a limited basis because of a knee issue.

Only A.J. Barner, Julian Neal, and Emanuel Wilson were fully healthy in Seattle and had no restrictions. The others, including guard Anthony Bradford and wide receiver Tory Horton, worked in a limited capacity, but they are expected to play.

New England’s situation is different but no less concerning. All three players on its injury list, including running back TreVeyon Henderson, missed practice in full. Henderson, who rushed for 911 yards and nine touchdowns last season, has not taken the field since August 24, when he suffered an ankle injury. His absence would be a major blow to the Patriots’ offense, especially since the season opener against the defending champions promises to be highly intense.

The psychological dimension also cannot be overlooked. For Seattle, this is not merely the first game of the season; it is an opportunity to avenge last year’s Super Bowl loss to New England. The game will be played Wednesday at Lumen Field in Seattle, where the home team traditionally performs with confidence. Kickoff is scheduled for 5:20 p.m. local time, with pregame shows beginning several hours earlier.

It is important to understand the terminology used in the reports. DNP means that a player missed the entire practice and that his availability for the game is seriously in doubt. “Limited participation” means the athlete worked only part of the session but is likely to take the field. Full participation, meanwhile, indicates that there are no restrictions. In their official reports, the teams emphasized that these lists can change daily and that final roster decisions will be made shortly before kickoff.

Particular attention should be paid to the reaction of fans and analysts to the news about Henderson, who has already become a key figure in the Patriots’ offense. His absence could force the coaching staff to rethink its game plan, emphasizing shorter passes and formations involving tight ends. Seattle, meanwhile, appears to have the edge thanks to home-field advantage and a healthier secondary, although much will depend on whether injured players from both teams recover in time. This duel will be more than a test of physical condition; it will also test the character of two teams beginning their pursuit of a title defense or championship in the new season.

Belltown Tragedy: Overnight Shootings Claim Two Lives

The night from Saturday into Sunday turned into a nightmare for residents of Seattle’s downtown Belltown neighborhood. Two people were killed and three were injured in two separate shootings that occurred about an hour apart. The first incident took place around 12:30 a.m. near an unofficial street party where local enthusiasts were performing dangerous car stunts, leaving burn marks on the pavement. The second occurred around 2 a.m., half a mile from the first scene, when an unknown shooter opened fire on a parked car occupied by a woman.

The Seattle Police Department confirmed that a man and a woman suffered fatal injuries. The man died at Harborview Medical Center after being transported there in critical condition from Denny Way. Initial reports said two people had been injured, but two additional victims—a man and a woman—later sought medical attention on their own. According to the police report, an argument involving three people took place on the street before the first shooting. Authorities have not identified suspects in either case and are asking witnesses to call the violent-crimes investigation hotline.

Local residents describe the events as a frightening return to an atmosphere of lawlessness. Mia Dokes, who lives near the scene, said she watched the street racing from her balcony on both Friday and Saturday. She called 911 twice, and during the second call heard explosions resembling blasts from containers of explosives, followed by gunfire. She said a crowd of roughly 30 spectators cheered on drivers who spun their cars in circles. Some particularly reckless people even tried to touch the moving vehicles or hung out of them while recording the scene on their phones. Another resident, Julie Garner, who moved into the building just three weeks ago, also heard an explosion that sounded like dynamite, followed by a distinctive “pop-pop-pop” that she immediately recognized as gunshots.

Seattle Interim Police Chief Andre Sails issued a statement promising that both investigations were continuing and that his department was working around the clock to find those responsible and secure justice for the victims and their loved ones. He stressed that police would work with the community to find long-term solutions. Residents, however, remain skeptical. David Fry, a 77-year-old retiree who lives at First Avenue and Clay Street, said the unofficial parties and races have become even worse than in previous years. He heard noise, screeching tires, and shouting crowds, while participants used Lime scooters to block the streets. Fry is calling for a stronger police presence and surveillance cameras, adding that the city needs a mayor who genuinely supports law enforcement.

Bob Kettle, chair of the City Council’s Public Safety Committee, said the shootings should remind Seattle of the need to take more aggressive action against gun violence and support “exhausted” neighborhoods. He suggested that police staffing shortages make it difficult to quickly break up such street gatherings, especially at night, when many officers are assigned to other hot spots. Kettle added that these events can arise spontaneously and escalate very quickly, making them difficult to prevent. On Tuesday, his committee is scheduled to consider a resolution establishing a comprehensive, evidence-based strategy to reduce firearm violence. The council passed a law in 2024 increasing penalties for illegal street racing, but that has apparently not been enough. City officials have not yet responded to journalists’ questions about a possible connection between the shootings and the nearby Bumbershoot music festival, or whether the incidents could be considered a continuation of the recent tragedy at Seattle Center during the Bite of Seattle food festival, where a person was killed on July 26 in a targeted attack possibly linked to gangs.

What happened in Belltown on Sunday morning is not simply another statistic. It reflects deeper problems facing modern Seattle: insufficient police funding and staffing, the growing boldness of street groups, and the authorities’ inability to respond quickly when illegal entertainment escalates. Against this backdrop, talk of “long-term solutions” sounds especially cynical when residents are forced to lock themselves inside their apartments in fear after hearing yet another explosion or gunshot outside their windows. Without decisive action from City Hall and the City Council—including not only tougher penalties but also a real increase in police presence on the streets and improved social services—such nights will happen again, claiming the lives of innocent people. The Seattle Times reports that police are asking anyone with information to contact the violent-crimes investigation unit immediately at 206-233-5000.

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Why Giant House Spiders Are Returning to Oregon Homes

In late summer and early fall, residents of Oregon and Washington once again begin noticing giant house spiders in their homes. Adult males leave their hiding places and set out in search of females, so they may be seen on walls, ceilings, in closets, bathrooms and showers. The spiders are not hunting people — they are simply looking for a mate, and a human home happens to lie along their route.

For most of the year, these spiders live out of sight in garages, basements, sheds, storage rooms and other dark places. They build flat webs with funnel-shaped retreats and wait for prey to wander into the trap. The seasonal “invasion” does not mean that new spiders have appeared; rather, previously hidden males have begun actively moving through buildings.

The giant house spider is native to Europe and likely reached North America through Pacific Northwest ports. Today, it is especially widespread in coastal areas of British Columbia, Washington and Oregon. The mild, wet climate allows it to survive year-round, while ports, warehouses, freight containers, urban development and transportation corridors provide abundant hiding places and routes for further spread.

Adult males can reach a leg span of about 4 inches, while females have larger bodies. The giant house spider has long, relatively evenly colored legs and a brown body with a faint pattern. Because of its similar coloring, it can easily be mistaken for a hobo spider or other local species. Hobo spiders are usually smaller, have more noticeable dark markings, and also build funnel-shaped webs. However, reliable identification often requires a close-up photograph or help from a specialist. Most spiders in the region pose no danger to people.

Despite their impressive size and high speed, giant house spiders are nonaggressive and usually run away from people. Their record speed of about 20 inches per second is primarily useful for escape, not attack. Bites are extremely rare and generally occur only after accidental, forceful contact — for example, if a spider is pressed against clothing or skin. A study of confirmed bites in Oregon found no serious symptoms or tissue damage.

The state’s potentially dangerous spiders are primarily black widows. An adult female western black widow is noticeably smaller than a giant house spider. It has a shiny black body and a red, sometimes incomplete or orange-colored, hourglass marking on the underside of its abdomen. It prefers secluded, dry locations — woodpiles, garages and outbuildings — and usually bites only when defending itself or accidentally crushed. If a bite is accompanied by severe pain, muscle spasms, nausea or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

Giant house spiders feed on insects and sometimes other spiders, effectively serving as free nighttime pest control. Their webs are not sticky: prey lands on the surface and reveals itself through vibrations, after which the spider rapidly rushes toward it. If a spider ends up in a bathtub or sink, it most likely came down the wall in search of moisture, fell inside and was unable to climb out over the smooth sides — the plumbing is not to blame.

It is impossible to completely prevent spiders from entering a home, but the number of encounters can be reduced. Experts recommend sealing cracks, repairing window screens, installing door sweeps and closing gaps around pipes. Firewood, plants and other items should be inspected before being brought indoors, while shoes, clothing and towels should be shaken out. Traps work best when placed on the floor in dark corners, whereas repeated insecticide spraying usually provides only temporary results.

If a large brown spider raced across the floor this summer, there is no need to panic: it most likely did not just enter the house, is not trying to chase anyone and is almost certainly attempting to escape. It is simply a male searching for a mate, poorly navigating a human dwelling and having absolutely no understanding of personal-space boundaries.

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Based on: It’s happening again: PNW’s largest spider is seeking love inside people’s homes

Wild Waves Water Park to Close After Labor Day for Warehouse Construction

Wild Waves water park, known for its water slides, lazy river and other attractions, will close after Labor Day, the U.S. holiday observed on the first Monday of September. After the closure, the property is planned to be converted into a warehouse, so visitors are encouraged to take one last ride down a water slide and say goodbye to the park.

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Based on: Wild Waves water park closing after Labor Day to make way for warehouse

Holiday Seattle, Autumn Rain and a Crash: Day in Review

Seattle is emerging as a top travel destination for Labor Day, but drivers should prepare for traffic jams and high gas prices. Meanwhile, Professor Cliff Mass is predicting real downpours by the end of next week, dispelling myths about El Niño’s influence. And in West Seattle, a collision between a minivan and a cyclist at California and Genesee ended without serious consequences, although the injured person was taken to the hospital.

Seattle Tops Labor Day Travel Destinations: What Travelers Need to Know

Ahead of the final holiday weekend of summer, AAA analysts released data showing that Seattle has topped the list of the most popular Labor Day travel destinations in the United States. This is hardly surprising, given that more than 100 million Americans plan to travel over the weekend, with the vast majority choosing to drive. At the same time, experts point to encouraging news for those planning to fly or rent accommodations: compared with last year, airfares, hotel rates and car-rental prices have become noticeably more affordable.

Weather conditions in western Washington are expected to be favorable this weekend: dry weather and seasonal temperatures, with cooler conditions along the coast and warmer weather farther from the water. Brief showers are possible on Friday, however, and mountain areas face a slight risk of thunderstorms, particularly toward evening. Tourists traveling east across the Cascade Mountains should be prepared for changeable weather and a chance of thunderstorms, although temperatures there will be quite comfortable, ranging from 18 to 24 degrees Celsius.

Despite recent precipitation, wildfire season is not over yet, and authorities are reminding residents to follow safety precautions strictly: campfires must be completely extinguished, burning objects should not be thrown from car windows, and trailer chains must be securely fastened to prevent sparks on the road. Those planning to spend time on the water should remember that temperatures in Puget Sound remain low—about 10 degrees Celsius. Although the surface of lakes can warm to around 20 degrees, the water remains icy at depth.

According to forecasts from the state transportation department, road conditions will be challenging. The heaviest traffic on Snoqualmie Pass along I-90 is expected Friday and Saturday, particularly eastbound. Westbound traffic will also be difficult on Monday, with peak congestion expected from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The good news is that work on the Vantage Bridge will be suspended during the holiday, meaning all lanes will be open. Conditions on US 2 through Stevens Pass are expected to be similar. Those planning a trip to Portland and back should avoid traveling between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. on any of the holiday days.

Washington State Ferries will also be crowded. Most travelers are expected to leave the mainland on Thursday and Saturday, while the return flow will begin Sunday and continue through Tuesday. Those who want to avoid hours-long lines are advised to consider traveling as pedestrians and leaving their cars on shore. Updated schedules are available on the ferry system’s official website.

Gas prices in the state remain high: a gallon of fuel costs an average of $5.37, 22 percent more than last year. The national average is significantly lower, at $4.14. Drivers may find better prices in individual counties, including Whatcom and Skagit in the west, as well as Yakima, Spokane and other eastern counties, where prices are approaching $5 per gallon.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is preparing to handle approximately 180,000 passengers a day throughout the holiday period. Travelers are advised to arrive two hours before departure, or preferably three. Consider using the SEA Spot Saver program, which can speed up the screening process, as well as the new checkpoint at the southern end of the baggage-claim area, which is traditionally less crowded. Another option is the smaller Paine Field airport in Snohomish County, which operates 24 daily flights to destinations across the country, including the San Juan Islands.

For rail travelers, Amtrak reports that trains will be busy this weekend, but there will be enough seats for everyone who wants to travel. The busiest days are expected to be Thursday, Friday, Sunday and Monday.

Overall, despite possible traffic and line-related inconveniences, experts recommend planning routes and travel times in advance to make the most of the last days of summer. As meteorologist Ted Buehner notes in his article for mynorthwest.com, the key to a successful trip is flexibility and a willingness to adapt—especially when traveling to such a popular destination as Seattle.

Seattle’s Rainy Season: When to Expect a Real Downpour—and Why There’s No Need to Panic

Residents of western Washington have already enjoyed warm weather this summer, but, as is typical in the region, autumn is arriving quickly. Forecasters, including University of Washington atmospheric sciences professor Cliff Mass, warn that the light drizzle currently passing over the area is merely a prelude to genuine autumn weather. According to the expert, substantial rains capable of dramatically changing conditions and relieving residents of the need to water their lawns will arrive no earlier than next weekend. Mass himself advises against dramatizing the situation: what lies ahead is a normal seasonal transition for the region, not a climate catastrophe.

Professor Mass, known for his fondness for precise figures, shared a fairly specific forecast during an interview on The Jason Rantz Show on Seattle Red 770 AM. He explained that the weather would remain relatively dry over the next few days, but that a powerful system would reach the region by the end of next week, bringing approximately an inch of rain. That amount of moisture, he said, would be more than enough to end the need for artificial watering: “You can forget about having to water your garden or anything else outside after next weekend. There will be enough rain to keep everything in good shape.” The rain will also bring long-awaited cooler temperatures, with daytime highs barely reaching 19–20 degrees Celsius, finally putting an end to talk of heat waves.

Interestingly, many residents exhausted by the summer heat are trying to find someone to blame for autumn’s early arrival, and El Niño is often the main suspect. Mass categorically rejected that theory, calling what is happening “ordinary and average.” He emphasized that El Niño’s influence on local weather begins to be felt only closer to winter, while the current transition is entirely typical for this time of year. What is more, the expert believes the summer itself was not particularly unusual: a few days above 30 degrees and a warmer, drier June were about the extent of the deviations from normal. The only truly surprising event, in his view, was a series of thunderstorms in mid-July, which he called “exceptional” because they triggered most of this year’s fires in grasslands and pastures. Without those lightning strikes, Mass says, Washington’s wildfire season would have been entirely unremarkable.

The professor’s statement once again raises the issue of his long-running dispute with state officials, who declared a drought emergency in the spring even though reservoirs were full. Mass has repeatedly criticized such measures in public, calling fire warnings “bogus” and attempts to predict the fire season based on mountain snowpack unscientific. More about the expert’s position can be found in the original article on Seattle Red, where he explains why the relationship between drought and wildfires in the region is not as straightforward as officials portray it.

The bottom line is this: the region is on the verge of a typical cool, wet autumn in the Pacific Northwest. Sun lovers will have to be patient—and keep their umbrellas handy—while gardeners can finally take a break from daily watering. As for El Niño, its real influence will be felt in December and January. For now, what is happening is simply a turn in the weather to which local residents have long grown accustomed.

Collision at California and Genesee: Details of the West Seattle Incident

On Wednesday afternoon, at around 4:30 p.m., Seattle emergency services were alerted to a traffic collision at the intersection of California Avenue and Genesee Street. According to local news outlet West Seattle Blog, the crash involved a minivan driver and a cyclist. Firefighters and police units arrived quickly, and the west side of the intersection was partially closed, creating some disruption during rush hour.

Based on the first information published at 4:32 p.m., the situation initially appeared alarming, but more reassuring details emerged by 4:48. Firefighters canceled the request for an ambulance crew—a decision generally made when there is no threat to life or need for immediate resuscitation due to severe injuries. Nevertheless, according to a witness who submitted photos from the scene, one of the people involved was taken to the hospital by ambulance, though not on an emergency basis. This indirectly suggests that the injured person, most likely the cyclist, suffered bruises or abrasions, but that doctors did not consider the condition especially serious.

By 4:55 p.m., the fire department had officially closed the call, indicating that work at the scene was complete and normal traffic had resumed. Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances, although the brief report does not specify who was at fault—the driver who failed to see the cyclist or the cyclist who may have violated intersection rules.

For those unfamiliar with the local area, the California and Genesee intersection is one of the busiest nodes in West Seattle’s Junction neighborhood, where cars, public transportation and cyclists frequently cross paths. Bicycle traffic is fairly heavy because of the dedicated lanes, but, as experience shows, crashes involving two-wheeled vehicles occur in the area with troubling regularity. This has concerned local activists campaigning for improved safety infrastructure.

Although the incident did not result in tragic consequences, it once again raises an important question about how drivers and cyclists interact on public roads. Road-safety experts repeatedly remind the public that even a low-speed collision between a car and a bicycle can cause serious injuries because of the difference in mass and the cyclist’s lack of protection. Such incidents also often occur because of so-called blind spots—areas around a vehicle that the driver cannot see even in the rearview mirrors, particularly when the vehicle is as large as a minivan.

Notably, emergency services responded quickly in this case, and the alert system allowed residents to be informed promptly through social media and local blogs. However, observers note that every such incident should prompt not only an investigation but also preventive work with road users. Drivers should pay closer attention to lateral clearance when passing cyclists, while cyclists should use reflective gear and helmets even during daylight hours. Fortunately, this time the consequences were relatively minor, but the cost of carelessness on the road could have been far higher.

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Part of Mount Rainier National Park Reopens

White River Campground in Mount Rainier National Park began welcoming visitors again on Saturday after wildfires swept through the park this summer. The reopening marked the first step toward gradually restoring access to affected areas. Visitors should be aware of possible restrictions and check the latest information before traveling.

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Based on: Parts of Mount Rainier National Park reopen after wildfires

Slayyyter Conquers Seattle on Her Way to Stardom

One of the most exciting things in music is watching an artist break through at remarkable speed. That was the feeling at Seattle’s The Showbox on Friday, when Slayyyter performed for a packed audience as part of a completely sold-out North American tour. Following the success of her third album, Wor$t Girl in America, and a series of memorable summer festival appearances, this concert may well have been the singer’s last in such a small venue.

The Showbox is located in the heart of Seattle, near Pike Place Market, restaurants, bars and the city’s tourist attractions. With a capacity of about 1,100, the venue creates an especially intimate atmosphere: concertgoers are close to the stage and the performer. Compared with the WAMU Theater in the Seattle Center area, which holds roughly 4,000 people, and the region’s major arenas, which accommodate tens of thousands, The Showbox’s club setting makes for a more immediate and personal concert experience.

Even so, the crowd welcomed Slayyyter with a volume more typical of the WAMU Theater. The singer, whose real name is Catherine Grace Garner, opened the show with “Cannibalism!,” performing part of it while riding a carousel horse. Midway through the 75-minute concert, she acknowledged that her life and career were changing very quickly and thanked the audience for allowing her to experience the moment with them.

Until recently, Slayyyter had remained a promising up-and-coming artist. She made Wor$t Girl in America almost as a possible final attempt to achieve success, but the result was the opposite. The album’s bold energy, dance-pop and electroclash-inspired sound earned her a deal with a major label and a significant breakthrough into the mainstream.

The Showbox performance also carried a distinctive cultural context. Seattle is known for its historic music scene, associated with grunge, alternative rock and independent music, so a pop concert here feels like more than a commercial show. For Slayyyter, the club venue offered a chance to emphasize her connection to the city’s broader experimental musical tradition.

The singer performed very little of her early material, focusing instead on new songs, select singles and unreleased tracks. Backed by a three-piece band, she delivered energetic performances of “Dance…,” “Broke (Expletive) Free$tyle” and “Crank.” The latter became a viral hit and significantly increased interest in the artist.

Slayyyter’s vocals are not defined by showy power, but her confident delivery works well with the heavy dance rhythms. Some vocal passages sounded more atmospheric than virtuosic, while the band’s rock-oriented approach gave the electronic music added force. “I’m Actually Kinda Famous” and “Gas Station” underscored the show’s defiant character, while “Unknown Loverz” offered listeners a calmer breather.

The encore was the evening’s most explosive moment. During the euphoric “Brand New Chanel$,” Slayyyter finally let her voice open up fully, then closed the night with the brash “Beat Up Chanel$.” The title track from her forthcoming album, Wor$t Man in America, has already appeared on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 — a first in the singer’s career.

As Slayyyter’s popularity grows, other Seattle venues may open their doors to her, including Showbox SoDo, Neumos, The Crocodile, Paramount Theatre, Moore Theatre and Climate Pledge Arena. The choice among them depends on the scale of the tour and the expected audience, but the WAMU Theater — and especially the arenas — are much better suited to elaborate production designs and large-scale shows.

After saying, “See you next time,” Slayyyter left the stage to thunderous applause. Her performance at The Showbox was a rare opportunity to see the artist in a small club before she moves permanently to larger venues and arenas. Judging by the current excitement surrounding her, that transition may not be far away.

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Based on: Slayyyter, breakthrough pop star of the summer, rocks out in Seattle

Current on new light-rail segment may have killed fish in Lake Washington

Sound Transit said electrical current from light-rail operations on the Homer M. Hadley Memorial Bridge, the floating bridge connecting the shores of Lake Washington, is believed to have caused the deaths of some fish. The new rail segment runs alongside the westbound lanes of Interstate 90; specialists are investigating how the current may have entered the water and affected the lake’s inhabitants.

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Based on: Seattle light rail’s electrical system zaps some Lake Washington fish

Washington State Lawmaker Fined for Facebook Comments

A Washington state legislator seeking reelection has been fined for violating the state’s ethics law. On Facebook, he posted comments suggesting that he could access confidential information about one of his constituents, which was deemed an impermissible use or display of official capabilities.

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Based on: WA lawmaker fined for Facebook comments

Washington Officials Prepare for Medicaid Changes

Sweeping changes to Medicaid coverage, the U.S. government health care program for low-income people, could take effect in Washington state as early as next month. In response, the state’s top officials and health care system leaders have announced a plan intended to soften the impact of expected reductions in available medical services and the number of people receiving coverage.

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Based on: Ferguson moves to prepare WA for looming Medicaid changes

Seattle: Housing Market in Turmoil as Mariners Lose Hope

Seattle is experiencing a painful reversal in its housing market: homeowners are being forced to sell properties at a loss, while the baseball team’s loss of key pitcher Matt Brash for the rest of the season has effectively ended its slim playoff hopes. Meanwhile, experts are advising the club’s leadership not to rush into personnel decisions after a disastrous season.

Seattle Residents Sell Property to “Stop the Bleeding” as Market Turns

The era when selling a home in the Seattle area almost guaranteed enormous profits is fading into the past. More and more homeowners across the region are facing a harsh reality: housing prices, which until recently were rising rapidly, have now stagnated and, in some cases, begun to fall. For those who bought property at the market’s peak and are now forced to sell because of financial difficulties or relocation, the situation has become a genuine ordeal. These sellers often describe their decision as “stopping the bleeding,” acknowledging that the transaction will not bring them a profit but will merely help them avoid even greater losses. They are people who counted on their equity continuing to rise but are now forced to accept losses or sell at break-even simply to free themselves from the burden of mortgage payments and taxes.

Journalists at The Seattle Times examine this painful trend in detail. Seattle’s real estate market, which for years was among the hottest in the United States thanks to the technology boom, is now cooling much faster than analysts expected. High mortgage rates, which reached multiyear highs in 2023 and 2024, made buying a home unaffordable for many families. Demand fell sharply, buyers became extremely selective and demanding, and supply, by contrast, began to grow. In this environment, sellers who just yesterday could spark bidding wars for their homes are now being forced to cut prices, offer discounts and make concessions simply to attract anyone. For many, this has come as a shock, because it is psychologically difficult to realize that an asset long considered a reliable investment is losing value before their eyes.

The imbalance is especially acute among homes purchased in 2021 and 2022, at the height of the frenzy. Mortgage rates were relatively low then, while prices were sky-high. Now that rates have doubled and prices have slipped somewhat, these homeowners find themselves trapped. If they try to sell now, the proceeds are often insufficient even to repay the remaining balance on the loan, let alone recover their down payment. In some cases, banks value the homes below the total mortgage debt, making a sale virtually impossible without using additional personal savings. One story described by the authors is particularly telling: local real estate agents say they are increasingly hearing clients say, “I just want to get out of this,” meaning they want to escape an unaffordable financial burden even if it means losing tens of thousands of dollars.

Observers note that the current situation is a classic example of how the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy is hurting the market’s most vulnerable participants. The rate hikes intended to fight inflation have made mortgage borrowing more expensive nationwide, and Seattle, where the median home price still exceeds $800,000, has been hit especially hard. Buyers who can still afford mortgages at 6%–7% have enormous negotiating power and are demanding substantial discounts, citing the high cost of borrowing. Sellers, meanwhile, are caught between the desire to receive a fair price and the need to complete a transaction quickly, before their financial situation deteriorates further.

Analysts stress that the “bleeding” in Seattle’s housing market is not merely a temporary phenomenon but a structural shift. The relocation of many technology companies to states with lower taxes, along with the move toward remote work, has reduced the influx of highly paid professionals who once drove housing demand. A city that embodied the American dream of getting rich quickly through real estate is now learning to live with a new reality, in which a home is primarily a place to live rather than an endless source of income. Those who can afford to wait are choosing to rent out their properties in hopes of a future market recovery, but those without that option are being forced to sell at a loss and swallow the bitter pill. Experts believe this trend will intensify in the coming months, forcing more families to reconsider their view of real estate investment as a completely safe way to preserve capital.

Former General Manager Advises Mariners Not to Change Manager or Front Office

The season has turned into a catastrophe for the Seattle Mariners. After making the American League Championship Series last year, when the team came within seven wins of the World Series, fans expected a repeat performance—and perhaps even more. But reality has been harsh: with 66 wins and 75 losses, the Mariners are stuck near the bottom of the standings, and even their theoretical wild-card hopes are fading by the day. Naturally, talk of personnel changes has begun, with manager Dan Wilson and president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto viewed as the leading candidates to lose their jobs. However, former New York Mets general manager Steve Phillips, now an analyst for MLB Network, believes such decisions would be premature and shortsighted.

In an interview with Seattle Sports, Phillips emphasized that the root of the problem is not the coaching staff or management but simply a team failing to meet expectations. He pointed out that just a year ago, Wilson led the club to 90 wins and a playoff berth, where the Mariners came within reach of the top. “You can’t be a great manager one year and become a terrible manager the next,” he said, adding that if there are no clubhouse problems or conflicts with players, it is unwise to draw such abrupt conclusions. In his view, a 15-win drop in one year is not a matter of tactics or strategy but the result of key players simply failing to perform at their level.

Phillips paid particular attention to the pitching staff, which was the team’s greatest strength last season. Now, however, the club’s 4.16 ERA ranks only 16th in the league, making it the season’s biggest disappointment. He noted that Dipoto had always been reluctant to part with young pitchers in exchange for offensive reinforcements, but that strategy has begun to crack: the development of talented arms has stalled at the major-league level. “They don’t hit, but they’re not pitching the way they should, either. The pitching has regressed from what we all expected,” Phillips said. In his view, if the Mariners are to have any hope late in the season, they must first outpitch every opponent and then score enough runs, because they are doomed in a shootout with any team—their offense ranks last, averaging 3.96 runs per game.

Phillips, who led the Mets to the 2000 World Series, believes the problem goes deeper than simply changing the people in charge. He urged the organization to conduct a comprehensive review of its processes: Why are pitchers not progressing? Why are hitters failing to adjust to opposing pitchers? Where exactly is the player-development system breaking down? “You have to evaluate the training process and understand why adjustments aren’t working at the major-league level,” he added. Only after such an audit should personnel decisions be made. Even then, he said, firing people who took the team to the league championship series and brought it within one step of the ultimate prize would be a mistake. He acknowledges that the season has been a failure but argues that coaching ability cannot disappear in a single year, and if there are no obvious problems within the group, changing managers will solve nothing.

Phillips’ advice to the club’s leadership boils down to one simple point: do not act rashly in a moment of emotion. The season is undoubtedly disappointing, and fans have every right to demand answers, but those answers should come from analyzing mistakes rather than finding scapegoats. It is unlikely that the Mariners will pull off a miracle in the remaining games, and the futures of Wilson and Dipoto will be among the major offseason questions. Still, history shows that decisions made amid disappointment rarely pay dividends. Perhaps the organization should listen to someone who has endured the playoff gauntlet himself and understands the value of stability in baseball. The full interview with Steve Phillips is available on the Seattle Sports website, where he examines the situation within the club in detail.

Brash Out for Season as Mariners Lose Their Last Hope for Bullpen Rescue

The Seattle Mariners have suffered another painful blow in the middle of their playoff push: right-hander Matt Brash, who was expected to provide a key reinforcement for the decisive stretch of the season, will not pitch again this year. According to Seattle Sports, an MRI performed Thursday revealed inflammation in the right lat muscle—the same muscle that had already caused the pitcher problems in June. Doctors said there is no structural damage and that his recovery is proceeding as planned, but Brash has been prohibited from even picking up a baseball for the next eight weeks.

The news came as a cold shower for a team clinging desperately to its slim postseason hopes. Before Friday’s games, the Mariners trailed the division leader by six games and the final wild-card spot by four and a half, with only 21 games remaining. Brash’s return, after an almost flawless season, had seemed capable of becoming the catalyst that could turn the race around. Unfortunately, fate had other plans: the inflammation resurfaced after another training session in Boston, and general manager Justin Hollander acknowledged that discomfort in Brash’s lat had become a “recurring theme” over the previous two weeks.

Brash’s injury history has been a roller coaster. This is his second major setback in three seasons: in 2024, he underwent Tommy John surgery and missed the entire year. That means he has appeared in just 73 games over the past three seasons—fewer than he played in 2023 alone. The irony is that this season, before his June injury, Brash had performed like an elite setup man: in 20 appearances, he allowed just one run, posting a phenomenal 0.54 ERA and a 0.84 WHIP. He was the “lock” who shut down the seventh and eighth innings and allowed the team to carry games through to victory.

But since Brash and teammate Cooper Criswell went down on the same day—June 8—the Seattle bullpen has become the team’s weakest link. Before their injuries, Mariners relievers had the fourth-best ERA in the league at 3.18, providing the foundation for the team’s success. Since then, that figure has collapsed to a disastrous 5.77, the second-worst mark in baseball. The numbers are particularly alarming in the innings Brash traditionally handled: since his injury, Seattle’s bullpen ERA in the seventh and eighth innings is a dreadful 7.26, the worst in the league by nearly a full run over the next-worst team.

For Mariners fans, it is a bitter pill to swallow, because losing Brash is not merely a statistical blow but the collapse of the hope that the team had a Plan B at all. Still, Matt himself is an extraordinary fighter, and his return next season now appears more realistic because the MRI showed no tears or ligament damage. Eight weeks of rest should allow him to recover without surgery and begin preparing for spring training as usual.

The current reality, however, is that the Mariners have lost their biggest weapon in the middle of the battle for October. Without Brash, manager Scott Servais will have to improvise, sending whoever is available into the fray and hoping for a miracle. With the division rivals showing no signs of slowing down and the schedule offering no relief, Seattle’s playoff chances are fading by the day. All that remains is to wonder whether the Mariners can weather this storm without their bullpen’s main anchor—or whether this season will become another chapter in the book of bitter disappointments that already fills this franchise’s history.

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Cancer-stricken green card holder released from Washington ICE facility

Seventy-six-year-old Loreto Javar, a U.S. permanent resident with stage 4 prostate cancer, was released from ICE’s Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma on a personal recognizance bond. After his release, he was met by relatives and activists from the Tanggol Migrante Movement Washington.

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Based on: Green card holder with Stage 4 cancer released from WA ICE facility

Washington state approves sites for land conservation program

The Washington State Board of Natural Resources approved a list of six land parcels proposed for funding through the Trust Land Transfer program. The issue was considered at Tuesday’s meeting; the parcels must now receive approval from the Legislature before they can be preserved.

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Based on: Trust land transfer proposals approved by WA Natural Resources board

Rain and Thunderstorms Expected in Seattle This Weekend

Residents of Seattle and surrounding areas will likely want to prepare for the return of cooler and unsettled weather during the Labor Day holiday weekend, as forecasters are predicting rain and possible thunderstorms. After the warmer days, cool-weather clothing — jackets and hats — may be needed again.

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Based on: Labor Day weekend weather in Seattle may include rain, thunderstorms

After Four Months in Detention, Man Returns to His Family in Washington

Rudy Villeda Mejia, a 47-year-old native of Honduras, spent more than four months in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Aurora, Colorado. He was released in August and is now living with his family in northern Washington again, trying to rebuild his roofing business.

His release resulted from a federal judge’s decision. Villeda Mejia applied for a T visa — a special immigration status for victims of severe forms of human trafficking. Applications are filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services using Form I-914 and are generally accompanied by a personal account of events, police or court documents, medical and psychological evaluations, correspondence, financial records and statements from other people. In most cases, applicants must also provide proof of cooperation with law enforcement using Form I-914, Supplement B, although exceptions exist for minors and some people who are unable to cooperate because of trauma.

Submitting a T visa application by itself does not guarantee approval or protection from detention. Experts recommend consulting a licensed immigration attorney or accredited representative. Under a court order in California, ICE is not supposed to detain people with pending T visa applications and certain other visas for crime victims.

The man was arrested on March 30 at Denver International Airport. In early August, he was transferred first to Louisiana, to what is known as an ICE transit facility, where detainees are registered and undergo medical and administrative processing before being sent to other facilities or prepared for deportation. Transfers between states may be related to bed shortages, security requirements, the location of immigration court, medical needs or transportation schedules. However, the system often makes it difficult for detainees to communicate with attorneys and relatives. A person’s detention location can be checked through ICE’s online locator or with the help of an attorney.

Soon after the transfer, a Colorado judge ordered Villeda Mejia’s release and prohibited authorities from detaining him again without evidence that he might flee or pose a danger to the public.

After his release, a new problem emerged: the family had difficulty determining exactly where the man was. Relatives received conflicting information — Aurora was named first, followed by various cities in Louisiana. According to attorney Henry Hollitron, the confusion illustrates the difficulties faced by families of people held in ICE custody.

It was eventually determined that Villeda Mejia had been flown through Arizona and Texas and then driven to Louisiana. His wife flew there, after which the couple rented a car and began the long drive back to Washington.

The return was complicated by the fact that the man’s passport and work permit remained in Colorado. Without the documents, he could not fly, and the family also feared that ICE might detain him again at the airport. The office of Rep. Rick Larsen, who represents the district where the family lives, helped secure the return of the documents.

A member of Congress can send inquiries to ICE, USCIS, the Border Patrol and other federal agencies, check on the status of a case and seek responses to constituents’ requests. This usually requires written authorization to release information. However, Larsen’s office cannot order an agency to release someone, cancel a deportation order, issue a visa or replace an attorney or judge, and it generally does not provide legal representation.

Villeda Mejia has lived in the United States since 2010, when, according to his visa application, a Mexican cartel kidnapped him and smuggled him across the border. Before his arrest, he regularly reported for required check-ins at the ICE office in Seattle and, according to his family, had no criminal convictions. Such check-ins are a condition of release or immigration supervision: a person reports, provides documents and sometimes undergoes additional procedures. They are not equivalent to detention and do not guarantee protection from arrest, because ICE may act on the basis of an immigration order, a final deportation decision or changing law-enforcement priorities.

Before reporting for a check-in, experts advise consulting an immigration attorney and carrying copies of documents confirming one’s status and the date of the next hearing. Villeda Mejia’s case comes amid a broad deportation campaign that began after Donald Trump returned to the presidency in January 2025.

During his detention, the man’s health deteriorated: his back pain worsened, and symptoms of Bell’s palsy flared because he lacked necessary medication. His stepson, Genaro Shaffer, also noticed that his stepfather’s hair had turned gray. The family describes the detention conditions as extremely harsh, citing poor sleep and nutrition as well as threats of violence.

Villeda Mejia is now working again, trying to make up for the company’s financial losses and pay off equipment-related debts. Shaffer believes his stepfather’s story could happen to anyone without permanent immigration status, even if that person has not broken the law and has complied with government requirements. He says that in such situations, help from an experienced attorney and contacting members of Congress are especially important, because their powers are limited, while ICE typically changes course only after a direct court order.

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Based on: ICE releases WA man detained in Colorado for months

Seattle Park Gets a New Name: Parque Libertad

A park in the South Park neighborhood that previously bore the name of labor activist César Chávez is now called Parque Libertad — “Freedom Park.” The Seattle Parks and Recreation Department approved the name after the public submitted suggestions. The property belongs to King County but is managed by the city; it officially opened in 2008.

Chávez’s name was removed in March after The New York Times published an investigation containing allegations that he raped Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the United Farm Workers union, as well as allegations of sexual abuse involving minors. Chávez died in 1993. Within a week of the investigation’s publication, King County and Seattle abandoned the former name and announced they were seeking a new one.

According to interim department director Michelle Finnegan, the word “freedom” reflects a commitment to civil rights, equality and opportunity for all. The new name is intended to honor the people and communities that fought for justice throughout Seattle’s history, while emphasizing openness, a sense of belonging and residents’ participation in city life. Dolores Huerta, whose role in the labor movement became especially prominent after the allegations against Chávez, was honored in Washington state in 2019: April 10 was declared Dolores Huerta Day.

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Based on: Seattle’s César Chávez Park gets a new name

Allen’s Legacy and a New Seahawks Era: Technology, Gunfire and Loyalty

Seattle found itself at the center of three stories: the sale of the Seahawks to the Haslam family with the involvement of technology investors, defensive tackle Leonard Williams’ contract extension and belief in “legendary defenses,” and a disturbing shooting in a residential neighborhood where police are searching for those responsible amid dozens of shell casings.

Seattle Seahawks Sale Completed: Unexpected Technology Figures Join Ownership Group

The sale of the Seattle Seahawks to the Haslam family has finally closed, marking not merely a change in ownership but a genuine passing of the baton from one technology era to another. When news emerged last year that the heirs of Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen were putting the team up for sale, numerous names were circulating—from Jeff Bezos to Steve Ballmer. However, the winning bid came from the family of Silicon Valley venture capitalist Vinod Khosla. Although many of Seattle’s wealthiest technology figures, including Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates, chose not to enter the race for the nearly $10 billion asset, the final list of co-owners includes two familiar faces who will preserve the franchise’s ties to the local innovation ecosystem.

They are former Apptio CEO Sunny Gupta and Nader Naini, managing partner at Frazier Healthcare Partners. At first glance, these names may not be associated with sports, but their presence on the investor list is more than a nod to local roots. Gupta, who also served as executive chairman of Smartsheet and recently launched an enterprise AI startup, embodies the region’s software strength, comparable to Paul Allen’s own legacy. Naini, meanwhile, represents the financial and healthcare sectors, adding depth to the ownership portfolio beyond straightforward sports investments. Notably, Naini is already familiar with regional sports management, serving on the board of the Tacoma Rainiers baseball team—possibly indicating a long-term interest in developing sports assets in Washington state.

The list of co-owners looks like a cross-section of the global financial elite. In addition to Gupta and Naini, it includes Sequoia Capital’s Mark Stevens, known for early investments in Nvidia and Google; former U.S. Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker; and major investment firms such as Sixth Street and Carlyle. International dynasties add further color, including Mexico’s Aramburuzabala family and British investor Len Blavatnik. This combination suggests that the Haslam family sought not merely to find wealthy partners, but to build a strategic alliance capable of providing the club with financial stability and global connections. Given that the Seahawks are defending their Super Bowl title in the 2026 season, such support will be critical to keeping the team at the top. The new ownership group will be formally introduced next Wednesday at Lumen Field, and fans should expect not only welcoming speeches but also announcements about future investments in the team’s infrastructure and roster.

To understand the significance of the deal, it is worth remembering that Paul Allen bought the Seahawks in 1997, when the team was going through difficult times, and transformed it into one of the NFL’s most valuable brands. His name became synonymous with stability, and the Allen family’s departure from the role of managing owners represents a symbolic break with the past. Khosla’s arrival, however, is no accident: Vinod Khosla, a pioneer in solar energy and co-founder of Sun Microsystems, represents a new wave of technology capital increasingly entering traditional sports. Notably, the controlling stake is passing not to Vinod himself but to his wife, Neeru, which is unusual in the NFL and may point to a family-oriented approach to management focused on a long-term social mission, particularly through a charitable foundation. For fans, however, the most important question remains: Can the new ownership group preserve the winning culture established during the Allen era? The early signs are encouraging. With Gupta and Naini, the team gains local entrepreneurs who understand the region firsthand, while partnerships with giants such as Carlyle provide access to the capital needed to build a new stadium in the future. Details about the deal’s structure and each co-owner’s role will emerge gradually, but it is already clear that the next chapter in Seahawks history will be written with the active participation of people for whom technology and innovation are not merely words but a way of life.

Legendary Defense Is Born in Seattle: Leonard Williams on His New Contract and the Road to the Top

Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Leonard Williams met with reporters to discuss his new agreement with the club. The deal was more than another entry on the player’s résumé; it became a symbol of mutual trust between the athlete, the organization and the city he now calls home. In his address to the media, Williams made no attempt to hide his emotions, calling the contract extension “incredible” and emphasizing that the day might not have arrived without the support of head coach Mike Macdonald.

Williams’ story in Seattle is an example of how professional sports intersect with human values. According to the player, the family culture within the organization, along with the city’s distinctive energy and the fans’ loyalty, helped him find balance both on and off the field. “I feel wanted here,” the defensive lineman said. “It’s not just a job; it’s part of life.” The opportunity to finish his career with this team fills Williams with genuine excitement. Seattle is where he is playing the best football of his career, and the recent Super Bowl victory has only strengthened his desire to stay.

Williams’ recognition as an All-Pro also deserves special attention. For any NFL player, it represents the pinnacle of individual achievement, but Leonard emphasizes that he does not intend to rest on his laurels. His approach remains pragmatic: he prefers to move one step at a time rather than look too far ahead. “A season is made up of individual games, and each one is a new challenge,” the athlete says philosophically. At the same time, he is devoting more time to mentoring young defensive linemen. Williams understands that passing experience on to the next generation is an essential part of building the “legendary defense” people talk about in Seattle.

A key point of the interview lies in terminology that may be unfamiliar to newcomers. A defensive tackle, for example, is an interior defensive lineman whose main responsibilities are disrupting the opponent’s running plays and pressuring the quarterback. All-Pro honors are awarded to the best players of the season, as selected by journalists and coaches, making the recognition a highly prestigious individual award. As for Mike Macdonald, the young coach is known for an innovative defensive scheme that allows players such as Williams to maximize their potential.

Interestingly, Williams’ contract situation reflects a broader NFL trend: teams are increasingly investing in veterans who not only provide consistent performance but also become cultural leaders in the locker room. Extending Williams’ contract signals that the Seahawks are building around character as well as talent. Data from recent seasons confirms that Seattle’s defense improved significantly after Williams’ arrival: pressure on opposing quarterbacks became more aggressive, while run defense became more disciplined.

Williams himself, however, avoids making bold promises. “When I step onto the field, I don’t think about statistics or awards. I think about how to help my team win,” he says. That humility, combined with ambition, is what makes him a unique player. In a city where rain falls almost as often as landmark sporting moments occur, Williams has found his place. And judging by his attitude, the Seahawks have plenty more reasons to be proud, because legendary defenses really are born in Seattle.

Unknown Shooters Riddle South Seattle Neighborhood: Police Search for Suspects

On Wednesday evening, residents of a quiet South Seattle neighborhood heard what they initially took to be the sound of firecrackers. It soon became clear, however, that it was a real gunfight. Officers responding to the 2900 block of South Holly Street found more than 40 shell casings scattered across the roadway and the grounds of a small park nearby. Bullets pierced the bodies of three parked cars and the façades of five homes. Fortunately, no one was injured—the street was nearly empty at the time of the shooting.

According to witnesses, everything happened quickly: two vehicles drove into the intersection at the same time, and people inside opened fire. However, based on the type of casings recovered and witness accounts, shots were not fired only from the vehicles. Someone also fired from the direction of the park, where people may have been present who were either victims or participants in the conflict. By the time police arrived, neither suspects nor injured people were at the scene—all those involved had fled before patrol officers arrived.

Detective Shane Weatherford said it was currently difficult to determine whether the shooters had specific targets or were firing randomly in an attempt to intimidate someone. He also did not rule out the possibility that some participants had left the scene rather than wait to deal with law enforcement. The investigation has been assigned to the Gun Violence Reduction Unit, a specialized division that handles such cases in the city.

This is not the first similar incident in the Seattle area in recent months. Local residents increasingly complain that disputes between groups are taking place directly in residential neighborhoods and are calling on authorities to increase patrols. In practice, however, even after high-profile incidents like this, those responsible are rarely identified. Witnesses are often afraid to come forward, while suspects can disappear within minutes.

South Holly Street is in southeastern Seattle and has historically been considered a mixed-use area, where single-family homes stand alongside small parks and commercial buildings. The shooting occurred in a residential zone, making the incident especially alarming for the local community, since bullets could have struck windows of homes occupied at the time. Seattle police created the Gun Violence Reduction Unit specifically to analyze incidents like these and identify patterns that could help prevent future shootings.

For now, detectives are interviewing residents and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes and commercial properties. Police have not ruled out a connection between the shooting and a larger conflict that erupted earlier in other parts of the city, but that remains only a theory. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious vehicles or people in the area.

As The Seattle Times reported, incidents like these are becoming increasingly common in Seattle despite the city’s efforts to combat illegal gun trafficking. The central question remains unanswered: Was this an isolated burst of violence, or is the city on the brink of a new wave of criminal disputes whose consequences could be far more serious than bullet holes in the walls of homes?

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Who Will Continue Working During a Seattle Teachers’ Strike

On Tuesday evening, the education workers’ union and Seattle Public Schools reached a tentative agreement, but until then, uncertainty remained about the first day of the school year. About 485 district employees, most of them full-time workers, are not members of the Seattle Education Association. They include school principals, custodians, cafeteria workers and administrators. In the event of a strike, they would have been expected to report to school buildings, although it was unclear how they could carry out their duties without thousands of teachers and students.

The union, which represents roughly 6,000 teachers, instructional assistants, secretaries, counselors and other employees, approved a strike last week. It could have begun Wednesday — the day nearly 50,000 Seattle Public Schools students were due to return to school. The decision came after negotiations over a new collective bargaining agreement, which began about two months ago, reached an impasse.

The main dispute centered on the district’s special education policy; about 7,000 students receive such services. On Sunday, the district released its proposal, saying it would expand support for most children with special educational needs. The union responded that the statement contained “half-truths” and argued that the plan would instead lead to fewer aides and qualified specialists working with these students.

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Based on: Who will still work if Seattle teachers strike? Hundreds

Portland Holds a Parallel-Parking Tournament

On Sunday, hundreds of residents gathered on a street in southeast Portland to watch an unusual parallel-parking competition. A line of cars stretched for roughly five blocks as drivers waited for their chance to park between two vehicles already at the curb. Spectators arrived with their families, dogs and folding chairs, while some even wore traffic cones on their heads.

Parallel parking is especially common in Portland and other cities in the Pacific Northwest, where residential streets often have narrow roadways, dense development and little private parking. Curbside spaces make it possible to use limited space more efficiently without blocking traffic.

The tournament took place outside Daniel Lyman’s home near the intersection of Southeast Pine Street and Southeast 29th Avenue. The idea emerged a year earlier during a casual conversation between Lyman and his friend Stephanie Lynch. The first contest, organized in just a few days, unexpectedly attracted attention from local and national media, and its creators even appeared on “Good Morning America.” This year, Portland’s transportation bureau supported the event by providing prizes and vouchers for the Parking Kitty app.

Parking Kitty allows users to pay for and extend parking from a smartphone, check rates and manage their parking session. The app is particularly common in paid curbside parking zones — downtown, in business districts and in popular shopping and tourist areas, where spaces are scarce and time limits apply.

About 80 participants competed for roughly five hours. Backup cameras were prohibited, and the bumpers of the parked cars were protected with soft pool noodles. Touching either vehicle meant disqualification, which happened fairly often. A wide variety of vehicles took part, from old compact pickups to a small British roadster; even a motorcyclist made an attempt. A father who pushed a child in a stroller through the course received a perfect score.

Judges considered not only whether the driver successfully parked, but also the speed, the vehicle’s length, the distance from the curb and the flair of the maneuver. Longer vehicles earned participants more points, while shorter ones earned fewer. Spectators watched one driver with a baby in the car in complete silence so as not to wake the child. The competition was emceed by Portland drag performer Nicole Onoscopi, while the judges included KOIN meteorologist Josh Kozart and a transportation bureau employee.

The five top-scoring participants advanced to the final, known as the “Tournament of Champions.” Kyle Kaufman won after parking in 16 seconds and scoring 85.72 points. He received the grand prize: a miniature Subaru painted gold. Organizer Daniel Lyman said the contest will return next year only if it can be made even more absurd and fun.

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Based on: Hundreds pack Portland street to watch people parallel park

How Seattle Avoided a Teachers Strike at the Last Minute

The Seattle Education Association and Seattle Public Schools reached a tentative agreement at the last minute, averting a strike that could have delayed the start of the school year. Teachers and other staff members expressed relief, while parents felt relief mixed with frustration: the decision was announced only around 11 p.m. on the eve of the expected return to school.

Negotiations had continued since June and concluded after weeks of deadlock. Superintendent Ben Shuldiner took part in the discussions personally and said he was proud of the agreement. It must now be finalized, approved by union members and then ratified by the school board.

One of the main sticking points was special education. The district has four types of programs because students require different levels of support — from instruction in a general education classroom with additional services to specialized classrooms for children with more complex needs. Currently, these programs are distributed unevenly among schools: each school typically offers only certain types of support, so some children are assigned to other schools with the appropriate program. This allows specialists and resources to be concentrated, but it can increase students’ travel times.

The district proposed changing how these services are distributed and organized, but the union was concerned about the consequences for students and staff. In the end, the sides agreed not to immediately implement a sweeping reform, but instead to launch an 18-month process involving the school community to develop a new approach.

After that process, the district plans to conduct a large pilot project, possibly as early as the third year of the new contract. It will test whether all four types of special education services can be provided at every school, so children would not have to transfer between schools depending on the programs they need.

The union’s second major achievement was a pay increase. All employees will receive raises reflecting the cost of living, along with additional increases for paraprofessionals, some office workers and other employees without state teaching certificates. Shuldiner said the final increases would be slightly higher than the previously announced 8.8% over three years, but would remain within the limits of the district’s approved budget.

Approximately 6,000 union members — teachers, paraprofessionals, secretaries, counselors and other specialists — must ratify the tentative agreement. The vote is scheduled for Sept. 11 at McCaw Hall. The spacious neutral venue can accommodate a large number of participants and allow for in-person verification of attendance and voting eligibility, while an online format could raise additional questions about the procedure.

After the union vote, the contract must be approved by the school board on Sept. 16 or earlier at a special meeting. The union represents employees and cannot independently require the district to fund the agreement, while the board cannot unilaterally impose it on staff. Therefore, both sides must approve the contract for it to take effect — confirming their agreement on salaries, working conditions and other provisions.

The final agreement was made possible by a compromise on special education and salaries, allowing the school year to begin as scheduled.

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Based on: How Seattle Schools got the deal done to avert a teachers strike

Golden Jimothy Card Sells for $20,100 on eBay

The fan appeal of Jimothy — the short-tailed Seattle raccoon who became a local celebrity — has taken on a very tangible monetary value. A unique golden Seattle Mariners card featuring his image sold for $20,100 on eBay Sunday evening.

The card was discovered by Abby, an incoming eighth grader, among 20,000 collectible cards distributed to spectators during the Mariners’ Jimothy-themed game against the Detroit Tigers on Aug. 5 at T-Mobile Park. Buyers offered the family money during the game, but Abby’s mother, Jessie Nino, decided to keep the find. Realizing the card could be worth a great deal, the family put it up for auction, hoping to use the proceeds for their daughter’s future education or to buy a home.

By the time the auction ended, the card had received 100 bids. Other Jimothy cards are also selling on eBay for tens or hundreds of dollars. Abby’s sale set a new record among promotional cards distributed at stadiums; the previous high was held by a Dodgers “One Piece”-themed card that sold for $19,800. For $20,100, you could buy an inexpensive new car, open a mobile coffee shop or purchase about 6,700 large brewed coffees at Starbucks.

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Based on: Golden Jimothy Mariners card sells for $20,100 on eBay

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Based on: Seattle superintendent: Labor deal lets SPS ‘possibly stay solvent’

Fateful Decisions: Seattle Between Openness, Wildlife and Schools

Three significant events are unfolding in Washington state: the state Supreme Court will consider whether lawmakers have the right to withhold public records, potentially changing the balance of power; police discovered a bobcat in the home of a 93-year-old woman who had mistaken it for a cat; and Seattle schools avoided a strike, preserving the scheduled start of the school year. These stories — ranging from legal precedents to odd curiosities — reflect the complex intersections of urban life, where nature, politics and education meet in the most unexpected ways.

Washington Supreme Court to Consider Lawmakers’ Right to Withhold Public Records

An important legal precedent is taking shape in Washington state — one that could fundamentally alter the balance between government transparency and the effectiveness of the legislative process. The state Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case involving so-called “legislative privilege,” the right of lawmakers to withhold some of their working documents and correspondence on the grounds that internal decision-making processes need protection. The decision follows a long series of legal disputes and now places a difficult question before the state’s highest court: Where does the public’s right to know how laws are made end, and lawmakers’ right to work confidentially begin?

The dispute has its roots in ongoing conflicts among journalists, advocates and public officials. Washington residents have repeatedly requested lawmakers’ correspondence, bill drafts and internal analyses, believing that such materials should be available under the state’s Public Records Act. Lawmakers, however, argue that their work requires a certain degree of privacy. If every preliminary discussion, draft or personal opinion became public, they say, the legislative process could be paralyzed, forcing politicians to constantly worry about public reaction and making them afraid to express unpopular but necessary viewpoints. In essence, legislative privilege is intended not to protect secrets for their own sake, but to protect the process of developing compromises and decisions — a process that rarely takes place entirely in public and often requires informal discussions.

The Supreme Court must now determine how applicable this privilege is when state law explicitly establishes a presumption of openness. The justices will have to balance two constitutional values: the public’s right to information and the need to ensure that the legislative branch can function properly. Similar cases have already been heard in other U.S. states, with mixed results. In some instances, courts sided with transparency, noting that modern technology allows politicians to protect their most sensitive discussions from outside scrutiny without concealing all of their records. In others, courts recognized that excessive interference in internal processes could lead lawmakers to stop putting their thoughts on paper altogether — ultimately making their work less transparent, not more.

The principal argument made by supporters of transparency is that voters have the right to know how, and under whose influence, laws governing their lives are created. If the privilege is interpreted too broadly, it could protect not only strategic discussions but also correspondence with lobbyists, major business representatives or even private arrangements among politicians. Although lawyers for the lawmakers insist that the privilege is not unlimited and applies only to internal deliberative processes, critics fear that in practice it could become a convenient tool for concealing information that might be uncomfortable for those in power.

Significantly, the article published in The Seattle Times briefly reports the essence of the case — the high court agreed to consider the issue — but does not provide specific details about which documents lawmakers are trying to withhold. This only underscores that even the description of the dispute itself remains contested. The hearings are expected to attract considerable public attention, since the court’s decision will establish a precedent that could remain in effect for decades and affect how every future legislative session operates.

If the court sides with lawmakers, it will effectively legitimize a practice that citizens have continued to challenge. If it sides with transparency, lawmakers will have to fundamentally revise their methods and be prepared for much of their daily work to become public. The middle ground, as is often the case in law, is the most difficult: The justices may try to draw a fine line that protects genuinely sensitive aspects of lawmaking while preventing officials from hiding information that should truly be public behind an abstract “privilege.”

For ordinary Washington residents, the case deserves close attention because it concerns more than legal technicalities. It addresses the fundamental question of how democratic their society is. If citizens cannot access information about how laws are made, their participation in political life becomes largely symbolic, while real power becomes concentrated in the hands of a small group of professionals operating beyond public oversight. Ultimately, the Supreme Court’s decision will determine whether politics in the state remains transparent and government accountable, or whether closed-door discussions become the accepted norm.

Police Find Bobcat in Home of 93-Year-Old Woman Near Seattle

The story begins as a typical call about a missing pet but quickly turns into something entirely unexpected. An elderly woman in a Seattle suburb reported to police that her cat was missing. When officers arrived, they discovered that the “cat” was actually a real bobcat that apparently felt completely at home. The woman had likely been feeding the wild animal, mistaking it for a large domestic cat, and had no idea who had moved in under her roof.

Police officers, accustomed to all kinds of situations, clearly did not expect to find a bobcat in the living room of a 93-year-old American woman. The predator was calm, but that did not stop law enforcement from calling wildlife specialists. The situation ended well for everyone: The bobcat was turned over to the appropriate authorities and will most likely be released into the wild, away from residential areas. The retiree escaped with little more than a fright and will presumably think twice before inviting unfamiliar “cats” into her home. Details of the incident were described in a police report, which also notes that such encounters are becoming increasingly common in the region as cities expand and human development encroaches on wildlife habitat.

It is worth noting that the original report contains a particularly curious discrepancy. At the top of the material about the bobcat discovery, an entirely different story is mentioned — tragic events in Haiti, where gang attacks in the city of Kenscoff left dozens dead and more than 50 people kidnapped. This was likely an aggregator error, with a fragment from another news story inserted into the article about the furry visitor. Still, setting aside the technical glitch, the main story remains revealing: Even in comfortable American suburbs, wild animals can sometimes be closer than we think, and they are not always willing to settle for the role of a cute household pet. The bobcat incident is a reminder that, despite the apparent domestication of our surroundings, nature occasionally makes its presence known. Elderly people living alone may sometimes fail to recognize danger because of their kindness and trustfulness. Fortunately, no one was injured, the bobcat showed no aggression, and the entire episode ended almost like a joke. But the case offers an excellent opportunity to consider how we coexist with wildlife and why wild cats are increasingly choosing human homes — whether because of a lack of food or simply because they are curious to look through the window at people willing to feed them. Police and wildlife officials have already commented on the incident, urging residents not to approach wild animals and to report them to specialists rather than trying to “tame” predators themselves. The 93-year-old homeowner, meanwhile, appears to have been delighted by the unexpected visitor, although she will probably pay closer attention to the identifying features of feline species before opening her door to them again.

Seattle Strike Averted: New School Year to Begin on Time

Seattle avoided a dramatic scenario that could have left thousands of students without classes on the first day of the school year. Late Tuesday evening, the Seattle Education Association teachers’ union and the city’s school administration reached a tentative agreement, allowing the school year to begin Wednesday morning as scheduled. The news came as a relief to parents, students and teachers, who had anxiously followed the negotiations in recent weeks.

Tensions peaked last week, when teachers voted 91% in favor of authorizing a strike if the two sides could not reach an agreement by the start of the school year. The situation worsened Saturday evening when negotiations reached an impasse. By the following morning, however, a mediator had joined the process, and discussions resumed with renewed intensity. Negotiators even joked that they might have to bring an air mattress so they could meet the deadline — the schedule was that demanding.

Seattle Schools Superintendent Brent Schundler, speaking to reporters Tuesday afternoon, thanked the mediator and emphasized his decisive role in achieving progress. Without the specialist’s involvement, he said, the outcome could have been very different, and he was glad they would not have to consider the possible negative consequences. More than 300 people — teachers, students and parents — also gathered outside the district administration building that day to show support for the union. Some held signs calling for the district to reconsider its proposed staffing levels for special education.

The ratio of specialists to students in special education programs was a major point of contention. District proposals included changes to the structure of those programs, including a reduction in the number of paraprofessionals in classrooms. However, neither the district nor the union has disclosed the details of the proposals or the tentative agreement. Such confidentiality is common during the preliminary agreement stage, but it has raised numerous questions among members of the public, particularly parents of children with special educational needs.

Paraprofessionals are teacher assistants who play a crucial role in supporting students with disabilities. They help adapt instructional materials, accompany students throughout the school day and implement individualized education plans. Reducing their numbers could significantly affect the quality of education for the most vulnerable students, which is why the proposal prompted such strong opposition from the teaching community.

The agreement must now be ratified by union members in a special vote, requiring only a simple majority. Such procedures usually take several days, but given the parties’ desire to avoid a strike, the vote will likely be organized quickly. Even if ratification takes longer, however, the start of the school year will not be disrupted — the key outcome of the agreement.

For Seattle, the dispute served as a reminder of how fragile the balance can be between teachers’ demands and school-budget constraints. Similar conflicts over fair pay and working conditions occur across the country, and each time they threaten to disrupt education. Seattle’s experience shows, however, that even in the most difficult situations, when both sides are willing to compromise and seek help from professional mediators, a solution acceptable to everyone can be found. The hope now is that the compromise will hold and allow Seattle students to begin the new school year calmly, without concerns about their future. More information is available in the KUOW article.

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Seattle Officials Aim to Improve Emergency Communications

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson and Acting Police Chief Andre Sayles discussed communication problems identified after the shooting at the Bite of Seattle festival, as well as Sayles’ plans for his first 100 days in office. The leaders intend to improve information-sharing among emergency services and make the police response to emergencies more effective.

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Based on: Wilson, Sayles create plan to improve emergency communications

How Seattle Informed Residents After the Mass Shooting

The provided excerpt says that Seattle officials are comparing their communication with residents after the mass shooting to the actions of other cities. Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson, Seattle Police Deputy Chief Tyrone Davis, Mayor Katie Wilson and U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal spoke at a press conference at Seattle Center. However, the full article and details of the comparison are not included in the excerpt.

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Based on: How Seattle’s communication during mass shooting compares to other cities’

Seattle teachers’ strike averted

The bargaining committee of the Seattle Education Association reached an agreement, allowing city schools to begin the academic year on Wednesday as planned. The union held a protest outside the Seattle Public Schools headquarters the day before, but a strike was ultimately avoided.

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Based on: Teacher strike averted; Seattle schools will start Wednesday

MOHAI Museum Staff Seek to Form a Union

Workers at the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) in Seattle have announced a campaign to form a union and asked museum management to voluntarily recognize the new organization. The decision now rests with the museum’s administration: if it agrees, the union will be recognized without a formal vote; otherwise, the employees will likely have to go through the established union-organizing process.

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Based on: MOHAI workers launch union effort

Seattle works to avert teachers’ strike

Nearly 50,000 Seattle public school students were due to begin the school year on Wednesday, but prolonged negotiations between the school district and teachers’ union put the first day of classes at risk.

Seattle Public Schools is a unified public school district governed by an elected school board. Decisions about the budget, the operation of the school system, transportation, staffing and school closures are made at the district level, so individual schools cannot independently cancel potential changes. In the event of a strike, the decision would affect all 106 schools.

At a news conference Tuesday, Superintendent Ben Shuldiner said he was “hopeful” because of significant progress in negotiations with the Seattle Education Association (SEA). Talks continued past 1 a.m. and resumed in the morning.

Shuldiner declined to disclose details of the progress, but said the two sides were actively exchanging proposals on special education and pay. He said the rapid exchange of documents showed that both sides genuinely wanted to reach an agreement.

The district promised to post updates on negotiations every two hours on its website and social media. Shuldiner did not provide an exact time for when news of a strike or its cancellation would be announced, comparing the decision to the announcement of a snow day, which is sometimes made early in the morning.

In Washington state, public school employees may strike as part of a collective labor dispute, but the parties must complete legally required bargaining procedures beforehand. During a strike, classes may be canceled or rescheduled, and employees generally do not receive pay for days they do not work. The effects on the academic calendar and any possible compensation depend on the final agreement between the union and the district.

If a strike begins, pickets would be held at all 106 schools during regular school hours: beginning at 7:50 a.m. at elementary schools and at 8:50 a.m. at middle and high schools. At the time of publication, no final agreement had been reached, making a strike appear to be the most likely scenario.

If schools close, the district plans to provide students with packaged breakfasts and lunches from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Students’ enrollment status will not be checked: District leaders said they want to remove barriers to accessing food. School buses, however, will not operate, so families will have to travel to the schools on their own. Parents were also advised to contact their school principals for details.

The central dispute involved not only pay but also the district’s plans to change special education programs and staffing schedules. Many students with disabilities need one-on-one support, adapted materials, therapy or assistance with daily activities. Increasing the number of students assigned to each adult could make it harder to carry out individualized education plans, harm safety and access to learning, and increase teachers’ workloads.

The union fears the changes will lead to cuts in aides and weaker support for children with special needs. The district, meanwhile, is facing a budget shortfall caused by rising expenses, declines in some revenues and limited local funding options. District leaders worry that higher labor costs will lead to cuts in programs or staff, while the union is pushing for higher salaries to retain employees.

About 400 teachers and union supporters gathered Tuesday outside the district headquarters in SoDo. SoDo, short for South of Downtown, is an industrial and commercial neighborhood south of downtown Seattle, home to warehouses, stadiums and offices. The picket outside headquarters was intended to draw attention to the officials making decisions about the budget, school system and working conditions. Participants wearing red held signs and chanted demands for a fair collective bargaining agreement.

Educator Chelly Lafayette said she attended the demonstration primarily because of the threat of cuts to special education. She said that under the current program for children with behavioral challenges, one teacher and three aides serve 10 students. She fears the new rules will undermine an effective support system.

Aubrey Frantzen, a staff member in the BRIDGES program at Garfield High School, also opposed increasing the student-to-staff ratio. BRIDGES helps students who struggle to follow standard school rules or cope with behavioral and emotional challenges. The program provides individualized plans, mentoring, specialist support, self-regulation instruction and gradual reentry into the mainstream learning environment, so staff cuts could leave specialists without enough time to work individually with students.

A week before the possible strike, union members voted to strike if an agreement was not reached by the end of Tuesday. Of the 57 items in the prospective contract, the parties had agreed on 12, including provisions on mentoring, hiring procedures and the review of employees without state certification, as well as their representation and arbitration rights.

School Board President Gina Topp urged the district and union to reach an agreement so children could attend classes Wednesday. She emphasized that the contract must address students’ needs, particularly in special education, recognize educators’ professionalism and remain financially responsible amid the district’s budget crisis.

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Based on: Seattle superintendent says he’s ‘hopeful’ strike can be avoided

Seattle at a Crossroads: Population Loss, School Crisis and New Promises

Seattle is facing a triple challenge: a record outflow of households seeking affordable housing, the threat of a teachers’ strike over a $100 million budget deficit, and City Hall’s promises to improve emergency communications after a shooting at a festival. Residents are voting with their feet, schools are on the verge of a disrupted academic year, and officials are trying to rebuild trust.

Seattle Has the Second-Largest Household Outflow in the U.S.: Washington Residents Vote With Their Feet

The Washington Policy Center has published data that raise serious questions about the state of affairs in Washington. According to a recent analysis, Seattle ranked second in the United States for the net outflow of prospective homebuyers among the nation’s 100 largest metropolitan areas, trailing only New York City. The figures are based on Redfin data, which track not actual moves but searches by people considering a change of residence. While official population statistics may paint a rosier picture, the real intentions of Americans already living in Washington point to a very different trend: they are actively looking for ways to leave, and this process carries serious economic consequences.

Mark Harmsworth, director of small-business policy at the Washington Policy Center, set out to determine whether Washington really remains the “state of opportunity” that local Democrats in Olympia describe. His verdict is grim: people who already live here are looking for a way out, while official population figures merely conceal this warning signal. The analysis combines several sources, including Redfin search data, state population estimates, federal housing data and IRS tax returns. Taken together, they paint a picture that differs sharply from the one presented in official migration reports.

The Redfin search figures are genuinely striking. During the first quarter of 2026, 26,349 Seattle users searched for housing outside the city, while the reverse flow of people interested in moving to Seattle was significantly smaller. The most popular destination among the “escapees” was Phoenix, where the median home price is roughly half that of Seattle. This trend is not unique to Washington: nationwide, nearly one in five American homebuyers is now considering options outside their metropolitan area, a record level since Redfin began tracking the statistic in 2021. People are deliberately heading toward cheaper Southern states with favorable climates and tax policies.

Notably, the supply of homes for sale within the state itself has already risen sharply, particularly in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties, where the market has been flooded with listings following the adoption of an income tax. This confirms that high-earning professionals are not merely thinking about leaving—they are already putting their homes on the market and departing the state. Interestingly, Washington state’s own data appear to contradict this picture. The state Office of Financial Management estimates a net migration gain of 61,750 people between April 2024 and April 2025. Harmsworth, however, points to an important nuance: over the course of one year, net migration fell by 7,500 people, the weakest figure since 2013 apart from the pandemic year of 2021. Domestic migration—moves from other states—is about 18 percent below its pre-pandemic level, and only international arrivals are keeping the overall figure from collapsing completely.

A more detailed analysis by The Seattle Times, based on census data and included in the study, presents an even more troubling picture. From 2020 to 2024, Washington lost more than 20,000 residents through moves to other states. The annual number of people leaving rose from roughly 198,400 to 233,100. The main flow is headed to Arizona, followed by Texas, while Idaho continues to attract families who can keep remote jobs and afford to buy a home—a trend Seattle Red covered last spring, when Idaho’s population surpassed two million. Federal housing-market analysts reached similar conclusions: a HUD study of the Seattle housing market recorded net domestic outmigration every year beginning in 2017, with the negative trend merely being masked by international arrivals.

IRS data are particularly revealing because they show who is leaving the state and how much they earn. According to Harmsworth’s calculations, between 2021 and 2022 Washington experienced a net loss of nearly 19,000 taxpayers and their dependents, taking approximately $1.66 billion in adjusted gross income with them. More recent data for King County show similarly striking figures: a net outflow of about 13,000 people and nearly $2 billion in income in a single year. Notably, even in a year when the county recorded a net gain of residents from other states, it still lost $446 million in income because departing households earned substantially more than those arriving. The 2025 United Van Lines study, which tracks full-service moves and typically involves older and more affluent people, also classified Washington as a state with net population outmigration: 52.4 percent of moves were planned out of state, compared with 47.6 percent coming in.

It is hardly surprising that warning signs have been sounding for months, and employers are trying to get lawmakers’ attention. A survey by the Washington Business Association found that nearly one in four employers in the state is seriously considering moving its business to another state, and that figure has nearly tripled in 16 months. Harmsworth is right to note that people do not rent a moving truck because someone declares in a press release that Washington is open for business. They leave when housing becomes too expensive, taxes continue to rise, and another state does not treat investment as a problem requiring management. These figures suggest that the official picture of migration in Washington may be misleading and that the state’s actual economic situation requires closer attention from policymakers.

In an article published by Seattle Red, the combination of high housing costs, tax pressure and an overall policy toward investment is described as creating a persistent outmigration trend. For now, international migration is offsetting domestic losses in the overall statistics, but the annual loss of thousands of high-earning taxpayers is more than a change of address—it is a sign that the state’s economic appeal is declining. For those considering moving to or from Washington, these data may serve as an important guide in making that decision.

Quick Promises: How Seattle Plans to Catch Up on Emergency Communications

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson and local police have publicly acknowledged for the first time that communication during the recent shooting at the Bite of Seattle festival left much to be desired. Rather than making excuses, officials took an unprecedented step: they promised a complete review of the emergency-notification system for major public events. This is not merely a cosmetic overhaul of press releases but an attempt to restore the trust of residents who, at a critical moment, were left without clear information from official sources.

The substance of the new approach, outlined in a statement to FOX 13 Seattle, is the creation of a single, strict protocol: after any high-profile incident, police must provide City Hall and the public as quickly as possible with more than dry updates—full briefings containing verified information. In the past, as events demonstrated, the speed of notifications was sacrificed to bureaucratic approvals, leaving residents to learn about street closures and potential dangers from eyewitnesses’ social-media posts rather than from authorities. Under the new system, Seattle Police Department personnel will appoint a public-information officer at the scene itself, rather than an hour or two after the situation has been resolved.

To an ordinary resident, this promise may sound like another bureaucratic formality, but it actually represents a shift in approach. In an era of instant smartphone notifications, when any passerby can livestream an event, official silence is perceived as a lie or a cover-up. The Bite of Seattle incident became a test case: the shooting occurred in a crowded location, and while police were conducting tactical operations, rumors about the number of victims and shooters were already circulating online. The city now promises to introduce a “rapid-update protocol” that would effectively require law-enforcement officials to issue a public comment within 30 minutes after the threat has been stabilized.

The key issue in this story is not the promise itself but how the mayor’s administration is trying to avoid repeating past mistakes. Rather than issuing a directive to “just post more updates,” SPD is proposing a structured approach: for major events, officials will prepare templates in advance, including evacuation-zone maps and lists of hotlines. This means that the next time something similar happens, authorities will have no excuse that “we did not have time to gather the information,” because teams will operate in a semiautomated mode. Critics, however, already point out that the problem was not the absence of a protocol but a culture of silence and a reluctance to acknowledge uncertainty. If police do not change their mindset, all the new protocols will remain attractive documents on the city council’s website.

The consequences of this decision extend far beyond a single festival. Local journalists and activists have long complained about how difficult it is to obtain a comment from SPD during the first hours after an emergency, and this new policy could set a precedent for other cities across the country. Given that Seattle has struggled in recent years with a controversial reputation because of protests and street crime, demonstrating openness is also an exercise in political public relations. Wilson is clearly betting that voters will remember not the shooting itself but how quickly and clearly the city responded to residents’ demands. All that remains is to hope that these words will be matched by action, because trust takes years to rebuild and can be lost in a single evening.

Seattle on the Brink: Schools Superintendent Pleads With Teachers’ Union to Avoid Disrupting the Start of the School Year

A dramatic situation is unfolding in Seattle that could leave thousands of students without classes on the first day of the school year. Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Ben Shuldiner made an unusual public appeal just hours before the contract with the local teachers’ union was set to expire. It was a rare step underscoring the seriousness of the situation: 91 percent of union members have already voted to strike, and if the parties fail to reach an agreement by midnight Monday, schools may not open Wednesday.

Shuldiner, who said he spent Sunday evening at the district office until 10:30 p.m., stated that negotiations were continuing virtually around the clock. “We’re meeting morning, noon and night,” he said. “My hope, of course, is that on Wednesday we will open with full classrooms and full schools. And we are saying very clearly to the Seattle Education Association: work with us.” A mediator joined the negotiations Sunday and continued assisting both sides on Monday.

According to the superintendent, however, the main problem is not a lack of willingness to reach an agreement but a lack of money. “It’s difficult because we’re broke,” Shuldiner said bluntly. “If we had the money, I would happily give it to everyone, but the problem is that we don’t.” The district’s budget deficit is nearly $100 million. Against that backdrop, the district’s offer of an 8.8 percent pay increase over three years appears generous: the average salary for Seattle’s largest teacher category is already about $142,000, including base pay. That figure is impressive compared with national averages, but in Seattle, where the cost of living is among the highest in the United States, it does not seem excessive.

The main sticking point is the student-teacher ratio in special-education classrooms. Contract negotiations are usually opaque, but members of the union’s bargaining team shared details online: the district’s current proposals would combine different special-education programs and reduce the number of paraeducators in classrooms. This is part of Shuldiner’s broader plan to reorganize special education, under which students with special educational needs who are often sent to specialized schools would attend schools in their neighborhoods with the appropriate services integrated. Teachers do not categorically reject the idea itself, but they question whether it can be implemented under current conditions.

Matt Legaki, a special-education teacher at Laurelhurst Elementary School, expressed support for the new model but with reservations: “Philosophically, we agree that we want to move toward this model. But we also have to make sure that when the real work begins and our students come into the building, we can provide them with services from day one.” It is precisely this gap between good intentions and practical readiness that worries educators most. For now, despite the tension, both sides say they remain committed to starting the school year Wednesday. Legaki mentioned that members of the bargaining team have even joked about setting up air mattresses in the negotiation room—the process has gone on that long. This KUOW article describes the standoff in detail. The situation in Seattle reflects a broader trend among American school districts: after federal pandemic-era aid ended, many found themselves facing major budget shortfalls, making conflict between financial realities and union demands increasingly inevitable. Time will tell whether the parties can reach a compromise by Wednesday, but it is already clear that what is at stake is not only salaries but also the quality of education for the most vulnerable students.

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New UW Rules Raise Concerns Over Protests and Discipline

The University of Washington (UW) has proposed changes to its Student Conduct Code. The amendments could broaden the range of people who may be held accountable in connection with protests and would allow outside contractors to conduct appeals hearings in disciplinary cases. The plans have raised concerns among students and faculty.

Under the proposal, a student could be punished for property damage even if they did not cause it themselves but were present at a protest. Concealing one’s identity or wearing a mask could also be considered an aggravating circumstance. Faculty members note that masks help peaceful protesters protect themselves from doxxing — the publication of personal information to intimidate or retaliate against someone.

The proposal calls for outside specialists to participate in appeals involving a broad range of cases, from academic misconduct to allegations of sexual assault and violations of protest rules. Students and employees are asking who exactly would perform this work and why the university decided to transfer such authority to contractors. UW representatives have not yet provided detailed answers.

The amendments were prepared jointly with the law firm Husch Blackwell and submitted to the Washington State Register. The university says the changes are intended to improve transparency, fairness and accountability and are unrelated to protests. Faculty members, however, believe university leaders may be seeking to demonstrate a tougher approach to federal authorities following U.S. Department of Justice investigations, funding cuts and other measures that came after protests over Israel’s war in Gaza.

Federal reviews of compliance with civil rights laws and possible sanctions could have put UW at risk of losing or having federal grants suspended, including substantial research funding. They could also have required reforms to disciplinary rules, increased oversight of anti-discrimination measures and additional legal expenses. The university retains autonomy in academic matters, but as a recipient of federal funds, it must comply with grant conditions and rules prohibiting discrimination and harassment.

In 2024, activists occupied the UW Quad — the historic central plaza of the Seattle campus, surrounded by academic buildings and typically used for gatherings, rallies and ceremonies — for about three weeks. The encampment became a prominent symbol of protests against the war in Gaza and the university’s ties to Israel. Its prolonged presence disrupted normal campus operations, attracted media attention and forced administrators to balance freedom of assembly, safety, access to buildings and compliance with university rules.

Clashes with counterprotesters occurred during the demonstration, and graffiti appeared on buildings. In May, 21 students were suspended after occupying and blocking the interdisciplinary engineering building, where equipment worth more than $100,000 was damaged. UW President Robert Jones later said the current conduct code “was not written for this moment.”

Student leaders fear the new provisions could restrict freedom of speech and assembly, particularly for people who speak anonymously or under pseudonyms. Faculty members have also criticized the rushed process: many faculty senate members learned about the amendments only shortly before the hearings and believe the community had too little time to discuss them.

The university is governed by a board of regents appointed by the governor of Washington, the president and administration, and faculty-governance bodies. The board of regents makes key decisions on university policies and rules. The faculty senate represents professors, participates in developing and discussing academic standards, and may recommend changes; however, final approval of general conduct rules falls under the regents’ authority.

UW says it complied with state law and spent nine months holding meetings and gathering feedback from students, faculty and staff. At a public hearing on Aug. 25, according to faculty senate members who attended, everyone who spoke opposed the proposed changes. The board of regents is scheduled to vote on the proposal on Sept. 9; if approved, the rules will take effect the same day.

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Based on: UW’s proposed changes to misconduct policy spur community concern

Seattle residents are spending noticeably less time commuting

After the pandemic, about a quarter of Seattle’s working residents shifted to remote work. But even those who continued commuting to the office every day benefited: from 2019 to 2024, the average one-way commute fell by 2 minutes and 30 seconds—from 28 minutes, 24 seconds to 25 minutes, 54 seconds.

At first glance, that reduction may seem small, but over the course of a year it amounts to more than 20 hours saved for someone who works five days a week. Remote workers are not counted in the statistics as people with “zero” commute times; they are simply excluded from the calculation. As a result, the decline reflects a real time savings among those who continue commuting to work.

Across the United States, commutes also became shorter, but by only 24 seconds: in 2024, the average one-way trip took 27 minutes, 12 seconds. Among the country’s 50 largest cities, Seattle tied for third with San Francisco and Detroit in the size of the reduction. Commutes improved more significantly only in Oakland and San Jose.

The main reason for the nationwide trend was the growth of remote work, which reduced congestion during rush hour. In Seattle, the widespread shift to hybrid schedules significantly reduced the daily flow of commuters to technology hubs, including South Lake Union and downtown. Road traffic and weekday public transit ridership declined compared with the pre-pandemic period, although congestion did not disappear entirely: some employees returned to offices, trips became less evenly distributed across the week, and population growth, construction and personal travel continue to sustain high traffic levels.

The decline in public transit ridership also played a role. In 2019, 25% of the city’s working residents used public transportation, compared with just 15% in 2024. Seattle’s transportation system is built around the King County Metro bus network, which connects the city with nearby suburbs. Before the pandemic, bus corridors linking downtown, residential neighborhoods and the suburbs were particularly busy, as was the Link light-rail system, which connects Sea-Tac Airport, downtown Seattle and northern neighborhoods. Sounder commuter trains primarily served people traveling to work from the suburbs, while the monorail was used mainly in the central part of the city.

Public transportation generally makes commutes considerably longer. In 2024, people who drove alone had an average commute of about 26 and a half minutes, while bus and train passengers spent nearly 49 and a half minutes traveling. Buses often move through the same traffic as cars, and dedicated lanes and traffic-signal priority are not available on every route. Passengers also have to wait for vehicles, transfer between routes and stop at numerous stations. The rail network is not yet extensive enough to replace car trips for most residents of the metropolitan area.

Remote work replaced some of these lengthy trips, and they were no longer included in Seattle’s overall statistics. A similar situation developed in Oakland and San Francisco.

In San Jose and Detroit, the decline in commute times had different explanations. These cities are more dependent on cars and have historically had a small share of public transit riders. In San Jose, remote and hybrid work in the technology sector was accompanied by a decline of roughly 15,000 jobs. Detroit lost more than 14,000 working residents, along with some of the cars that would otherwise have been on regional highways.

However, the trend was not universal. In rapidly growing cities in the southern United States, roads became more congested instead. In Tulsa, the average commute increased by more than a minute, while in Tampa, Fort Worth and Jacksonville it rose by 48 seconds. The influx of new residents into the Sun Belt, where the share of remote workers is relatively small, is outpacing transportation infrastructure development and leading to longer commutes.

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Based on: Seattle ranks 3rd in U.S. for shrinking commutes. Here’s why

Pierce County Sheriff’s Office Reminds Drivers When to Stop for a School Bus

With the start of the school year, school buses have returned to the roads, and the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office in Washington state decided to remind drivers of the rules for stopping. In an informational video, Deputy Carly Cappetto demonstrated a typical situation: A car stopped in front of a bus traveling in the opposite direction, even though there was a center turn lane between the two directions of traffic. In that case, stopping is not required.

Drivers must stop when traveling in the same direction as a school bus and the bus has extended its stop sign — even if there is a median or turn lane nearby. However, when approaching a bus from the opposite direction, drivers do not need to stop if a center turn lane separates the traffic flows. The same rule applies on a four-lane road when the directions are separated by a double yellow line.

The sheriff’s office urged drivers to review these rules in advance to avoid creating dangerous situations and unnecessarily holding up traffic. At the end of the video, motorists were also reminded to yield and clear a lane for emergency vehicles.

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Based on: Pierce County sheriff’s office gives tips on when to stop for school bus

Washington State Workers Demand Fair Pay

Thousands of Washington state workers held brief protests at more than 100 worksites Monday. Members of the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) opposed what they called inadequate pay-raise proposals from Gov. Bob Ferguson and demanded a “fair contract.”

Unions and state representatives are currently negotiating wages, benefits, working conditions and staffing levels. However, any agreements require budget funding: They effectively become binding only after the Legislature and governor approve the related spending. If the money is not allocated, raises and other terms could be delayed or renegotiated.

WFSE said employees face unsustainable workloads in critical positions, including protecting vulnerable children and caring for people with disabilities. Union President Mike Yestramski linked the situation to the state’s record payouts in lawsuits, which reached $614 million over the past year, primarily in cases involving child abuse and inadequate care.

Yestramski said state officials would rather spend money dealing in court with the consequences of preventable tragedies than invest in social-service employees beforehand. The union represents more than 50,000 workers at state agencies and other public institutions.

At the University of Washington, about 100 people gathered on Red Square, the central campus plaza in Seattle known for its brick paving and long tradition of public demonstrations. Library technician Natalie Brown held a sign saying that a fair contract should provide stability in unstable times. Workers demanded, at minimum, raises in line with inflation and described the difficulties they face.

Brown, 26, lives with friends in Kirkland and sometimes has to rely on housemates who earn more to pay for groceries and other expenses. She called a possible zero-percent raise insulting and said employees do not feel secure or financially stable.

Another demonstrator, 75-year-old painter Tom Morse, has worked in the university’s facilities and construction department for 30 years. He said he barely made ends meet before beginning to receive Social Security benefits at age 66, so he understands the situation of colleagues who lack an additional source of income.

Employees at the University of Washington, Harborview Medical Center and Western State Hospital took part in the same WFSE action, although the institutions fall under different governing structures. The university has its own governing system, Harborview is a King County hospital affiliated with the university, and Western State Hospital is a state psychiatric facility operated by Washington’s Department of Social and Health Services. The employees share a union and labor demands, while budgetary and legal decisions are made by different authorities.

Ferguson spokesperson Brionna Aho said the governor respects workers but that the state is facing serious budget problems. She said officials have already made billions of dollars in cuts, while Donald Trump’s federal administration has taken additional steps, including ending medical coverage for thousands of Washington residents.

Cuts to federal Medicaid funding and other programs could force the state to increase its own spending, reduce services or change eligibility rules. Hospitals and social-service agencies could see more uninsured residents, delayed payments and increased demand for medical and social assistance. This could further strain public employees and increase pressure in negotiations over wages, hiring and staffing levels.

The negotiations are taking place behind closed doors, so the exact gap between the union’s demands and the state’s proposals is unknown. The action was not a strike: Participants were allowed to use scheduled breaks or available leave. Demonstrations also took place in Olympia, at Harborview Medical Center, Western State Hospital and Fircrest School.

As the state faces an expected budget deficit and rising prices — consumer prices in the Seattle area rose 4.5% over the past year — the parties continue negotiating. Under the previous 2025–27 contract, employees received a 5% cost-of-living increase over two years, along with separate bonuses and additional benefits.

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Based on: WA state workers stage walkout to protest pay proposals from Ferguson

Washington real estate service settles dispute with Compass

Washington’s real estate service has reached an agreement with Compass, ending a dispute over transparency in the housing market. The provided material does not disclose details of the settlement’s terms, any potential payments, or changes to the rules. The illustration shows single-family homes in the Mount Baker Ridge neighborhood with downtown Seattle in the background; the photo was taken May 5, 2026.

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Based on: WA real estate service settles with Compass in transparency fight

Rain, Cocktails and the NFL: Seattle News

Seattle is revealing an unexpected side of itself: Forbes is dispelling the myth of a dull nightlife scene with a guide to the city’s best bars. Meanwhile, the Seahawks have finalized their roster, surprising fans with Montorie Foster’s story, losing a defender on waivers, and strategically retaining veterans for depth.

Seattle: Where Rain Is No Obstacle to Big Cocktail Ambitions

Seattle, with its reputation for perpetually gray skies and coffee culture, is rarely associated with a vibrant nightlife. Yet Forbes recently shattered that stereotype in a guide to the city’s most important bars. Writer Paul Caputo portrays a city where genuine treasures for food and drink enthusiasts lie beneath an outward reserve: from legendary cocktail bars with collections of thousands of bottles to oyster bars just steps from the famous Pike Place Market. The guide is more than a list of establishments; it is a journey through the history, flavors and traditions of a city that, as it turns out, knows how to surprise.

The article’s central idea is that Seattle offers an extraordinary variety of culinary and drinking experiences directly connected to its geography and history. The author emphasizes that local breweries have exclusive access to hops from the Yakima Valley, Woodinville’s wine cellars are only a half-hour drive away, and the cold waters of Puget Sound provide some of the finest oysters. This creates a unique ecosystem in which localism is not merely a fashionable trend but a way of life. In this context, the coffee culture that also originated here blends naturally with the cocktail scene, as at Fonté, where espresso becomes a full-fledged martini ingredient.

Particular attention is given to the iconic Canon bar, which the author calls a must-visit destination for cocktail pilgrims. With more than 4,000 bottles on its shelves, it claims to have the largest collection of spirits in America. It offers a vivid example of how the era of the American cocktail’s “dark ages” was overcome. Meanwhile, Zig Zag Café, tucked beneath the market, is where legendary bartender Murray Stenson revived the classic Last Word cocktail and turned it into a global hit. These establishments are not simply places to have a drink but true museums of bar culture, where every cocktail has a story to tell.

The author also highlights Seattle’s musical heritage. Central Saloon, the city’s oldest bar, is where Nirvana played its first Seattle show in 1988. That fact transforms an ordinary bar into a historic monument to the grunge era. The guide also features newer and unconventional establishments, such as Navy Strength, with its seasonal tropical cocktails that are updated every season, and Damn the Weather, where guests can order a dish based on their mood. This shows that Seattle is not stuck in the past but is actively evolving, offering modern formats and bold experiments.

The practical section of the guide includes accommodation advice, recommending the Four Seasons, which has been named the best hotel in the state, as well as a trip to Woodinville, the center of the local wine industry. The author notes that Seattle’s hospitality industry is adopting the practice of automatically adding gratuity to the bill, such as a 22% charge at some bars, something tourists should keep in mind. Overall, the article offers a comprehensive look at Seattle nightlife, presenting it as a city with a rich history and a vibrant present, where rain is merely an excuse to take shelter in a cozy bar with a glass of excellent wine or a cocktail worthy of admiration.

According to the author, “most of what follows is within walking distance or a short drive from downtown, with one optional excursion to Woodinville.” This makes the guide convenient for planning a full but not exhausting trip, with each evening spent at a new venue while immersing yourself in the atmosphere of Seattle’s bars. The aforementioned Forbes guide emphasizes that the city offers a unique synthesis of coffee and bar culture, along with an extraordinary commitment to local products—together creating the distinctive character of the local scene.

Seahawks Set Their Roster: Charbonnet to Miss the Start, Foster the Biggest Surprise

On Sunday, the Seattle Seahawks finalized their initial 53-man roster for the new season. As usually happens on cutdown day, the announcement brought several surprises and clarified important details about the recovery timelines of key players. The most intriguing decision concerned running back Zach Charbonnet, who underwent knee surgery in February. Contrary to some optimistic projections, he was placed on the physically unable to perform list (PUP), meaning he will miss at least the first four games of the regular season. General manager John Schneider said Sunday that this had been the plan from the beginning, ending fans’ hopes of an early return. More encouraging news arrived regarding other injured players: safety Nick Emmanwori, wide receiver Tory Horton, running back Emanuel Wilson and rookie cornerback Julian Neal all made the active roster rather than landing on injured reserve, indicating that their recoveries are progressing on schedule and that they will not miss a significant portion of the season.

The Seahawks’ biggest preseason storyline was the rapid rise of wide receiver Montorie Foster Jr., who not only earned a spot on the active roster but also received the fifth and final receiver spot after Jake Bobo was injured. Foster’s story is genuinely remarkable. A year ago, he was an undrafted rookie who suffered a knee injury and was released by the team. Rather than give up, he returned home to Cleveland, earned a real-estate license and worked as a substitute teacher at a high school while waiting for his opportunity. That opportunity came in December, when he signed with the Seahawks’ practice squad, accompanied the team on its run to the Super Bowl, and then put together an impressive training camp and preseason. During the preseason, he caught seven passes for 73 yards and a touchdown while also contributing on special teams. Commenting on Foster’s progress, Schneider struggled to find the right words. In his view, it was difficult to remember a receiver who had developed so quickly, and he suggested that Foster had simply “glued himself” to star receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba and studied his game closely. It is an extraordinary story of resilience and self-belief that became one of the highlights of the Seahawks’ preseason campaign.

Contrary to expectations, the most significant rotation occurred at cornerback, where a vacancy opened up at the No. 3 spot following Riq Woolen’s departure. Nehemiah Pritchett, Noah Igbinoghene and Neal were initially considered the favorites, but Neal’s injury forced Schneider to search actively for reinforcements. The Seahawks signed former first-round pick Terrion Arnold, who is at the center of a scandal involving eight criminal charges and has been placed on the league commissioner’s exempt list, as well as two-time Pro Bowler Trevon Diggs, who is attempting to revive his career after knee problems. The climax came Sunday with the acquisition of undrafted rookie Avery Smith in a trade with the Los Angeles Chargers. Ultimately, Pritchett, Neal and Smith made the active roster, while experienced players Igbinoghene and Diggs were released. As Schneider explained, however, this was purely a strategic move: veterans with four years of experience do not have to pass through waivers, meaning they can return to the practice squad without being claimed and be activated later if needed. This kind of “rotation” allows the club to retain younger players who could be claimed by other teams.

Finalizing the initial roster is only the first step in a long seasonal marathon, and Schneider understands that perfectly. He has repeatedly emphasized that his goal is to assemble the best possible 70-man group, consisting of 53 players on the active roster and 17 on the practice squad. A key part of the strategy is protecting young talent from waivers. Players with fewer than four accrued seasons who are released become available to other teams, while veterans become free agents and can safely wait on the practice squad. That is why players such as Diggs, Igbinoghene, safety D’Anthony Bell and wide receiver Cody White were released—they are not trapped by the system and can soon return. “This is a strategy for the initial cutdown, as well as for what we will look like in mid-October,” Schneider said, hinting that plenty of roster maneuvering remains ahead. On Monday, after the waiver deadline, the active phase of practice-squad signings will begin, so fans certainly will not be bored over the next few days.

For those unfamiliar with the NFL’s roster rules, a few points are worth explaining. The PUP list allows a team to avoid using an active-roster spot on an injured player, but that player must miss at least four regular-season games before the team can activate him. Waivers are a mechanism through which any other club can claim a released player with fewer than four years of league experience. Experienced veterans are therefore generally released without much risk of losing them, which is what Seattle is doing to “hide” younger players from competitors. The current 53-man roster is thus only a snapshot and will likely look very different by early October, when the team begins its 2026 season.

Seahawks Lose a Defender but Keep Hope Alive: Seattle’s Waiver-Period Results

The NFL waiver-claim period has ended, and teams can now either breathe a sigh of relief or begin frantically searching for replacements. For Seattle’s reigning Super Bowl champions, this stage of the offseason had mixed results: the Seahawks did not claim a single player off waivers but did lose a promising rookie. The player in question is defensive lineman Jared Ivey, who spent last season with the team as an undrafted free agent. He was claimed by the Atlanta Falcons, a noticeable though not catastrophic blow for Seattle. Ivey was initially viewed as a powerful edge rusher, but during training camp and the preseason, the team actively moved him closer to the middle of the defensive line in an effort to find him a new role. The Falcons apparently valued his versatility.

An important detail is that the Seahawks held the final spot in this year’s waiver-claim order—the price of winning the championship. That means that even if Seattle had wanted one of the 28 players claimed by other teams, it would have had virtually no chance of getting them, since weaker clubs always receive priority. The lack of additions was therefore more a consequence of the rules than a reluctance to improve the roster. Many analysts expected the team to add depth along the defensive line or at cornerback, but the front office remained faithful to its principle of not disrupting the roster for a questionable benefit.

There is also positive news for Seahawks fans. Four of the team’s draft picks from this year—Michael Dansby, Andre Fuller, Deven Eastern and Emmanuel Henderson Jr.—went unclaimed and successfully cleared waivers. They can now immediately sign contracts with Seattle’s practice squad. This is extremely important because it allows the club to retain control of young players who are already familiar with the coordinator’s system and can be called upon in the event of injuries. At the same time, Ivey’s departure is a reminder that no one in the NFL is safe from unexpected moves. The Falcons clearly saw potential in him as a three-technique defender, where his speed and aggression could create problems for opposing centers and guards. For Ivey himself, this is an opportunity to receive more playing time, as he would have had to compete with more experienced veterans in Seattle’s deep rotation. As the original Field Gulls article correctly emphasizes, the waiver order put the champions at a built-in disadvantage, and that should be taken into account when evaluating the general manager’s decisions—he made the most of the options available.

In practice, NFL waiver claims are a mechanism for distributing players released from other teams’ rosters. Clubs with the worst records from the previous season receive priority. Put simply, it is a “discount marketplace” where the hungriest teams get the best options and the well-fed take what remains. The Seahawks’ main task now is not to panic and to assemble their practice squad intelligently. In addition to the four drafted players, other free agents will join it. Losing Ivey is certainly unfortunate, but it is not critical for a team that has become known in recent years for finding diamonds among underdogs. Interestingly, this is not the first time in recent seasons that Seattle has lost a young defender on waivers, reflecting the intense competition for versatile defensive linemen. Still, fans should remain calm: the offseason continues, and there is still time before the regular season begins to address any gaps selectively.

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Ethics commission finds no violations in lawmaker’s efforts to stop challenger

Washington state Democratic Rep. Tarra Simmons actively tried to prevent fellow Democrat Darya Ilgen from running against her this year, but the state ethics commission ruled that Simmons did not violate any rules. The decision means her efforts to thwart the electoral challenge were not found to be improper.

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Based on: WA lawmaker broke no rules trying to thwart election challenge, ethics board says

Rain Showers and the First Signs of Fall Expected in Seattle

Seattle is forecast to see changeable weather, with brief rain showers alternating with sunny and cloudy periods — an early hint that fall is approaching. Against the backdrop of a cool atmosphere, city residents and visitors to Golden Gardens Park will be able to take advantage of occasional clear spells to enjoy the outdoors.

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Based on: Seattle weather: Rain showers and an ‘early taste of fall’

Airbnb Extends Free Housing for Washington Wildfire Survivors

Airbnb has extended its program providing free temporary housing to Washington residents who lost their homes or were forced to evacuate because of wildfires. The publication also features a photograph of a charred chair on the porch of a home destroyed by the Old Trails Fire in Spokane on Aug. 5; the image underscores the scale of the destruction faced by local residents.

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Based on: Airbnb extends free stays to WA wildfire survivors

How Trains Were Put on a Floating Bridge

The new Sound Transit line between Seattle and Bellevue is the only passenger railway in the world built on a floating bridge. To construct it, engineers had to solve three major challenges: strengthening the pontoons supporting Interstate 90, developing special rail joints capable of keeping trains stable as the bridge moved, and creating protection systems against stray electrical currents that could damage the bridge structure and railway infrastructure.

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Based on: To make light rail float, 3 big puzzles needed solutions

Legendary Performances and Roster Moves: Seattle Sports Digest

A look at the key news: the Seahawks trim their roster ahead of the season, Scherzer matches a historic achievement from 35 years ago, and the Mariners are forced to reshape their rotation because of injuries.

Seattle Seahawks Finalize Roster: Tracking Preseason Cuts

The NFL preseason is always a time of difficult decisions, and coach Mike Macdonald’s team found itself at the center of a roster shuffle this time around. The Seattle Seahawks, like all 31 other clubs in the league, were required to reduce their expanded 91-player roster to the mandated 53 players by Sunday evening. Every year, this process separates the dreams of promising rookies and veterans who were considered key figures only a day earlier. According to the official Seattle Sports tracker, the club had settled on its final roster by 4:16 p.m. local time, although details continued to be updated in real time.

Roster cuts in the NFL are more than simply removing names from a team’s website. It is a complicated legal procedure that depends on a player’s experience. If an athlete has fewer than four full seasons in the league, he enters the waiver system: any other club may claim him by 10 a.m. Monday, and if there are no claims, he becomes a free agent and can negotiate with any team. Veterans with four or more seasons receive immediate free-agent status, and their futures are decided directly on the market. It is also important to understand that, in addition to the active roster, the Seahawks can form a 16-player practice squad—or a 17-player squad if it includes a participant in the International Player Pathway program. Those who have just been cut often end up there, giving them a chance to remain in the club’s system.

The Seahawks made several notable moves ahead of this year’s deadline. One that stands out was the acquisition of cornerback Avery Smith from the Los Angeles Chargers: despite having no regular-season experience, the young player was considered more promising than some of the other competitors in camp. However, the most discussed development was the official signing of Terrion Arnold, a talented defensive player who has nevertheless faced legal problems. Analysts note that the move carries reputational risks, but the player’s potential apparently outweighed general manager John Schneider’s concerns.

As for the cuts themselves, the list was substantial and largely expected. Among those leaving the team were safeties D’Anthony Bell and Rodney Thomas II, who were released without being subject to waivers. Receivers Emmanuel Henderson Jr., Ricky White III and Julian Hicks, cornerback Michael Danksy, and several defensive and offensive linemen—including Jalen Gaines, Bubba Thomas and Kellen Diesch—were placed on waivers. For most of them, this is not the end of their careers but rather the beginning of a fight for a place on the practice squad or with another club. Significantly, all of these players largely lacked regular-season experience, confirming the Seahawks’ strategy: the team is relying on veterans at key positions while giving younger players an opportunity to prove themselves through the practice-squad system.

The main conclusion from this roster marathon is that Seattle is approaching the start of the season with a clear understanding of its strengths. In the final preseason games, including the matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, several players demonstrated leadership qualities, while the contract extension for Leonard Williams sent an important message to the locker room. The futures of those who were cut have not yet been settled, and in the coming days we will see which of them return through the practice squad. For Seahawks fans, this waiting period is always a mixture of anxiety and hope, because these decisions determine whether the team can compete for a playoff spot this year.

Injury Forces Mariners to Reshape Starting Rotation: Miller Returns

The situation within the Seattle Mariners organization is developing rapidly and, as is often the case in baseball, unpredictably. The planned experiment of moving pitcher Bryce Miller to the bullpen may never get off the ground, as another pitcher’s injury is forcing the coaching staff to return him to the starting rotation on short notice. The player in question is Emerson Hancock, who apparently will be placed on the injured list, automatically opening a spot in the rotation. All of this is happening on the eve of important games in Toronto, where the team is trying to find its rhythm and stabilize its roster.

According to information published by The Seattle Times, the prospect of seeing Miller work as a reliever—a pitcher who enters the game in relief—is becoming increasingly remote. The club’s management clearly does not want to weaken the starting rotation and would rather return a proven performer to his familiar role. It is a classic situation in which plans drawn up on paper collide with the harsh reality of injuries and the need to produce results immediately.

For those unfamiliar with the sport, baseball has a clear division of labor among pitchers. Starting pitchers are elite athletes who begin games and typically work for five to seven innings, conserving their energy and distributing it over the course of the outing. They set the tone and serve as the team’s primary force on the mound over the grueling 162-game regular season. Relief pitchers, or relievers, enter when the starter is tired or has lost control, and their job is to preserve a lead or prevent the opponent from extending it late in the game. These are very different roles, requiring different psychological and physical preparation, which is why a coaching staff’s moves between them always attract fans’ attention.

Hancock’s injury is a blow to the team’s pitching depth. Every club would like to have as many quality starters in reserve as possible, but there are never as many as teams would want. When one goes down, the next player steps in, but that player is usually of a lower caliber. Miller’s return, after he has already established himself as a reliable performer, should partly compensate for the loss. Still, a natural question arises: how much will this stress test affect his own form and his ability to withstand the demands of a long season? We will have answers in the coming games, when Miller takes the mound as a starter again and the Mariners continue their battle in the difficult AL West.

Max Scherzer Makes History Again: Veteran Delivers a Game Unseen in 35 Years

In baseball, age is not a verdict; sometimes it is even an advantage. That is especially true when discussing a master such as Max Scherzer. In the game between the Seattle Mariners and the Toronto Blue Jays on August 30, 2026, the 42-year-old pitcher delivered a performance that sent statisticians digging through the archives. Scherzer, who was 42 years and 34 days old at the time, became the oldest pitcher in MLB history to record 10 or more strikeouts while allowing no more than one hit. The last player to accomplish something similar was the legendary Nolan Ryan, back in 1991.

This is more than a dry line in the box score—it is a moment that reminds everyone why baseball is called a game in which experience is valued above youth. When Scherzer took the mound in Toronto, few expected him to match an achievement that had stood for more than three decades. Ryan was 44 in May 1991, and his performance was considered the benchmark for veteran dominance. Now Scherzer has joined that giant, proving that age is merely a number on a passport, not in the statistical record.

The game itself was tense, although it may have appeared one-sided to a neutral viewer. Scherzer seized control from his very first pitch: his fastball still traveled at a velocity capable of surprising even the quickest hitters, while his famous slider remained virtually unreadable. The Blue Jays tried everything—from changing their stances to taking aggressive swings at first pitches—but nothing worked. It seemed as if Scherzer were reading his opponents’ minds like an open book. By the seventh inning, when his strikeout total had passed double digits, the Toronto crowd began chanting his name—even opposing fans understood that they were witnessing something special.

The key moment came in the eighth inning, when a Toronto outfielder finally broke up the no-hit bid with the game’s only hit. Scherzer did not flinch. Rather than easing off, he doubled down on his concentration and struck out the next two batters in succession. This was not merely pitching—it was a spectacle in which every move mattered. Now that statisticians have confirmed the achievement’s uniqueness, it is clear that Scherzer is not simply playing baseball at 42—he is rewriting its rules.

To understand the significance of the number, it is worth remembering that recording 10 or more strikeouts while allowing one or zero hits is considered a gold standard of dominance on the mound. It means the pitcher controlled the game almost completely, giving the opposing hitters virtually no chance to build an offense. In modern baseball, where the average age of elite pitchers rarely exceeds 30, Scherzer’s performance looks like an anomaly—especially given that he continues to perform at a level that places him alongside the greatest players of all time. Details of the historic game can be found in the official MLB report, which records all of the game’s key moments.

Interestingly, Scherzer himself was restrained in his postgame comments, saying only that he was “just doing my job.” But fans and analysts understand that this is more than a job—it is a legacy. When Nolan Ryan retired in 1993, few imagined that his record would be matched so soon, much less by a pitcher whom many had written off because of injuries a decade earlier. Scherzer, who has dealt with shoulder and back problems over the years, continues to find ways to adapt his game. He no longer relies solely on power; his arsenal now includes clever changes of pace and pinpoint pitch placement around the corners of the strike zone.

The achievement has far-reaching implications for the league as a whole. First, it once again raises the question of how teams evaluate aging pitchers. If it was once believed that a pitcher inevitably declines after age 35, Scherzer’s example shows that with proper preparation and mental resilience, it is possible to remain elite at 42. Second, it sends a message to young players: it is not how old you are but how you approach your craft. That may be why many experts have already begun saying that Scherzer could serve as a model for a new generation willing to reject stereotypes about an “age ceiling.”

Still, it should not be forgotten that Seattle was not merely watching history unfold in this game—they won, and the victory could prove decisive in the playoff race. Scherzer, who joined the team in midseason, was acquired precisely for games like this: to take the mound at a crucial moment and do what others cannot. He did so with such brilliance that even the most committed skeptics are forced to admit that baseball has room for miracles—especially when they are created by a man with 42 years of life experience and 20 years of experience winning.

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Court Blocks Trump Mail-Voting Rule

A federal court has temporarily blocked a Trump administration rule concerning mail-in voting that was challenged by the state of Washington. Washington is one of eight U.S. states where elections are conducted entirely by mail, so such restrictions could directly affect how voting is administered and voters’ access to elections.

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Based on: Federal judge blocks Trump mail-in voting rule challenged by WA

Seattle Senior Centers Open Their Doors to Toddlers

Former teacher and school librarian Marlene Peters settled into the familiar lobby of the Bayview center this month and began reading a favorite book to a dozen restless toddlers. The scene was part of a program that brings preschoolers and older adults together in the same space, allowing the older generation to share their experience and attention while giving children the chance to connect with new adult mentors. This “full-circle care” model helps strengthen intergenerational bonds and makes Seattle’s community centers more welcoming to residents of all ages.

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Based on: Childcare at Seattle senior centers offers full-circle care

How Seattle’s Metro Train Became the World’s First on a Floating Bridge

A light-rail train heading to the Eastside descends toward the floating pontoons on Lake Washington at nearly highway speed. This was made possible by a unique design for the track supports where the I-90 bridge connects the shore to its floating section. The solution enabled a passenger rail line to run across a floating bridge — the first project of its kind in the world.

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Based on: How Seattle light rail became world’s first floating passenger train

Teacher strikes in Washington state: What’s happening

Teachers picket outside Kent-Meridian High School in Kent in August 2022. Education unions in school districts across the Puget Sound region continue to engage in difficult negotiations with administrators.

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Based on: WA teacher strikes outside Seattle? Here’s what we know

Seattle Tragedy and Controversial Signing: News Digest

The fentanyl death of a one-year-old child in Seattle exposed problems in the child-protection system, while the Seahawks took a chance on a talented cornerback facing serious legal troubles, risking little for the potential to strengthen their roster.

Seattle Tragedy: Mother Accused of Fentanyl Death of One-Year-Old Son Had Previously Lost Custody of Another Child

A case that has shocked Seattle has exposed deep problems in the child-protection system and the fight against drug addiction. Thirty-nine-year-old Divayna Tangalan, also known as Nakia Cunningham, appeared in court charged with the manslaughter of her one-year-old son. The tragedy unfolded early on August 23, when the mother awoke on a couch and discovered that the infant, who had been sleeping in her arms, was not breathing. Emergency responders pronounced the child dead at the scene. A subsequent autopsy found fentanyl in his blood and urine—a powerful synthetic opioid hundreds of times stronger than morphine.

According to court documents published by KIRO 7 News Seattle, the woman told police that she was addicted to fentanyl and suggested that the child might have accidentally gotten into her drug supply. When she spoke with law enforcement, Tangalan appeared to be in an altered state, mumbling, “I’m sorry, I messed up. This is all my fault.” Notably, another child—a two-and-a-half-year-old—was also in the apartment, and both children were being supervised solely by their mother; their father was absent.

During a search of the home, police and a dog detected traces of drugs in the bathroom, a trash can and a shared closet—all places easily accessible to young children. Officers also found an unsecured handgun in the bathroom, within reach of the older child. The discovery further worsened Tangalan’s situation: she was charged not only with creating dangerous living conditions for the children, but also with unlawful possession of a firearm, as she had prior convictions that prohibited her from owning a gun.

The family’s history is particularly alarming. Just weeks before the tragedy, in early August, child-welfare authorities—the Department of Children, Youth, and Families—had implemented what is known as a “safety plan” for the children. This measure is generally used when there is an immediate risk to a minor’s life or health. Tangalan and the children’s father had been working with social services for a year, but drug tests taken on August 5 returned positive for opiates. Older incidents also came to light. In 2013, Tangalan was convicted of interfering with custody after abducting her older 11-year-old son, who was in state custody, and keeping him for an extended period. The court noted at the time that she had endangered the child by associating with “dangerous and inappropriate individuals” and had even said she was willing to go to prison rather than return the boy. Her record also includes an assault on her own mother in 2003 and a 2006 conviction for possessing cocaine with the intent to distribute it.

In its argument, the King County Prosecutor’s Office emphasizes that despite a substantial gap in her criminal record, Tangalan’s behavior had not changed, ultimately leading to the death of a helpless infant. In addition to the fentanyl poisoning, the medical examiner did not rule out a so-called “overlay”—the accidental suffocation of a child during sleep, which can occur when parents share a bed with their children, particularly while under the influence of drugs.

The tragedy raises painful questions about how the U.S. child-protection system operates, why a child died despite the existence of a safety plan, and what measures should be taken to prevent similar cases. Experts say the fentanyl crisis affecting the country is disproportionately harming its most vulnerable members—children who cannot protect themselves. The Seattle case is not isolated: according to statistics, the number of child deaths linked to fentanyl has multiplied in recent years. The next hearing is scheduled for August 31, and the charges may be expanded. The woman faces a lengthy prison sentence for manslaughter, particularly given the aggravating circumstances of her previous encounters with the justice system and the presence of a young child in a dangerous environment.

Seattle Bets on Talent Despite Legal Troubles

The Seattle Seahawks have officially signed cornerback Terrion Arnold, a former first-round draft pick whose NFL career was placed in jeopardy by legal problems. The team announced the move on Saturday and also confirmed that offensive tackle Derrick Graham had been waived to make room on the 90-man roster. The move was the logical conclusion of a process Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald had discussed earlier in the month, when the team first reached an agreement with the player.

Seattle’s decision to bring in Arnold is controversial, given that the Detroit Lions released him earlier this year. Nevertheless, Macdonald explained that the club had acted deliberately after weighing the risks and opportunities. He said the team had known Arnold well since the draft and believed in his potential, while fully recognizing the seriousness of his legal situation. The coach noted that the process would take its course and that the league would make the final decision on whether the player could take the field. The club, he said, was prepared to respect and support that process.

Macdonald also placed particular emphasis on the human element. He said Arnold had people supporting him throughout this difficult period, and that Seattle had listened to their views. The coach stressed that the team has a strong locker room and had a productive meeting with the player. In his view, all these factors together allowed the club to give Arnold an opportunity to prove himself and earn a place on the roster. At the same time, Macdonald admitted that the exact timing of Arnold’s arrival remained unclear, since the player had been communicating with eight or even 10 teams and the sides were still working out the details.

As for Arnold’s football abilities, the coach is optimistic. Macdonald believes the player’s skills would fit well into the Seahawks’ defensive scheme. He highlighted Arnold’s energy, physical strength and ability to play in a pattern-match scheme, which Arnold learned at Alabama. However, the head coach added an important caveat: everything will depend on whether the player can become the best version of himself. Macdonald said the team welcomes anyone willing to work on themselves, and that this applies not only to Arnold but to every player. The message is simple: if everyone gives 100 percent, the team will become stronger.

On the legal side, Terrion Arnold was selected by Detroit with the 24th overall pick in the 2024 draft. His time with the team, however, was brief. The precise details of the charges were not disclosed in the original report, but the fact that the Lions released him and he became a free agent indicates the seriousness of the situation. In the NFL, such cases are generally handled under the league’s personal-conduct policy, with the commissioner deciding on disciplinary measures, including a possible suspension. Until that process is complete, Arnold can practice with the team, but his participation in games remains uncertain.

Seattle’s move can be viewed as a classic example of a team taking a calculated risk. If Arnold’s legal problems are resolved favorably, the team could acquire a talented defensive back who might become an important part of its defense. If not, the club will not lose much, since the contract is unlikely to be fully guaranteed. Such deals are not unusual in the NFL, where teams are often willing to give talented players with troubled histories a second chance. Importantly, the Seahawks are not ignoring the situation; they are acting within established procedures, underscoring their responsible approach.

Overall, Arnold’s signing represents a bet on talent and a belief in personal rehabilitation. For the player, it is a chance to restart his career; for the team, it is an opportunity to strengthen the roster without significant financial expense. It will be interesting to see how the story unfolds and whether the former first-round pick can justify the coaching staff’s trust. As stated in the official announcement, Seattle is prepared to operate within the law and give the player an opportunity to prove himself on the field.

Seattle Bets on a Player Facing Eight Felony Charges: Why the Seahawks Waited for Terrion Arnold

The Seattle Seahawks have officially signed cornerback Terrion Arnold, who became a free agent after the Detroit Lions released him in June amid kidnapping and armed-robbery charges. The deal was agreed to on August 13, but the club deliberately waited nearly three weeks to finalize the paperwork, allowing the preseason games to conclude. The delay was purely pragmatic: had Arnold been on the roster during training camp, he would have occupied a spot on the 91-man roster but would not have been allowed to take the field because of the status the league is expected to impose on him. Now that he has signed, he will almost certainly be placed on the commissioner’s exempt list, effectively barring him from practices and games until his legal situation is resolved. Arnold has three days to appeal the decision, but that is unlikely to change the overall picture given the seriousness of the charges.

The case now being heard in Florida is extremely serious. According to the district attorney’s office, Arnold coordinated the actions of six accomplices who lured three men to an apartment, where they were beaten, robbed and held at gunpoint. The alleged motive was the belief that the men had stolen more than $200,000 worth of personal belongings from an Airbnb Arnold had rented in February. Prosecutors emphasize, however, that no evidence linking the victims to the theft was found. Notably, the attack was organized just hours after Arnold himself reported the property missing to police. The player faces up to eight felony charges—four counts of kidnapping and four counts of armed robbery—each of which could potentially carry a life sentence. Arnold fully denies the allegations. After being charged, he posted $1 million bail, and the court allowed him to continue his career while the case proceeds.

The Seahawks made the move deliberately, and the coaching staff has been open about its reasoning. Mike Macdonald, the team’s head coach, explained that the club had highly valued Arnold during the 2024 draft, when Seattle held the 16th pick but chose defensive lineman Byron Murphy instead, while Arnold was selected by Detroit at No. 24. The team now has an opportunity to acquire a player with first-round potential for a minimal veteran salary—just over $1 million per season. Recommendations from people trusted in Seattle also played an important role: defensive coordinator Karl Scott, who once helped recruit Arnold to Alabama, and backup quarterback Jalen Milroe, who calls Arnold his best friend. Macdonald emphasized that the club respects the opinions of these people and was unwilling to ignore their recommendations despite the seriousness of the criminal case.

The Seahawks’ strategy may look cynical, but from a management perspective it is quite rational. Knowing that Arnold will not be able to play immediately, the club obtains his rights without any immediate return. If he does not play a single game this season, he will become an exclusive rights free agent and remain entirely under Seattle’s control, unable to negotiate with other teams—a nearly guaranteed way to retain him cheaply next year. If he does take the field, his restricted-free-agent status would allow the club either to match another team’s offer or receive compensation in the form of a draft pick. In other words, in the worst-case scenario the Seahawks lose little, while in the best case they acquire a high-level player for virtually nothing in the long term. The club has already replaced Arnold on the roster with offensive tackle Derrick Graham, who was waived, so the organizational details have been resolved.

It remains unknown when Arnold will be able to take the field, if he can do so at all. The league has previously seen players facing serious charges spend years on the exempt list while awaiting trial. Seattle’s cornerback situation is also far from settled: several players are competing for the second and third spots, including rookie Trevon Diggs, who has already recorded an interception in the preseason, and veteran Nehemiah Pritchett. Arnold is viewed as a potential reinforcement for the second half of the 2026 season, by which time his legal problems may have been partially resolved. However, as The Seattle Times fairly points out, it is a major gamble: in the best case, the team gets a talented defensive back; in the worst, it assumes moral responsibility for a player accused of serious crimes. Coach Macdonald says the club respects the legal process and will operate within the rules, but it is clear that the team is betting on pure talent that may never be realized because of problems off the field.

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Fall arrives in Seattle with clouds, rain and cooler temperatures ahead

Seattle is in for a typical autumn change in weather: cloudy skies, rain and a noticeable drop in temperatures. In a photo taken in the Shilshole area on Saturday, June 6, 2026, storm clouds obscure the Olympic Mountains while small sailboats with colorful spinnakers practice maneuvers on the water.

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Based on: Seattle weather: Fall is coming with clouds, rain and cool temps ahead

King County to Create Park on Former Asphalt Plant Site

King County has purchased the site of a former asphalt plant, where it plans to create a new public park. The project is the result of years of opposition from environmental activists who fought industrial development along the Cedar River. Bob Baker, a member of the Save the Cedar River group, recalls that activists did everything they could to delay construction until officials and the owners eventually abandoned their original plans.

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Based on: King County buys asphalt plant site with plans for a new park

“Zero Doubt”: How a Washington Mail-In Election Had No Errors

President Donald Trump and Republicans continue to criticize mail-in voting, calling it careless and vulnerable to corruption. But a local election in the northwestern corner of Washington state demonstrated the opposite: conducted entirely by mail, it achieved a perfect accuracy record.

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Based on: ‘Zero doubt’: The story of WA’s 100% accurate mail-in election

Seattle Accelerates Road Safety Reform on the Path to Zero Deaths

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson has directed the city’s Department of Transportation to accelerate efforts to make streets safer and determine why the Vision Zero program has not yet delivered the expected results. The goal of eliminating traffic deaths entirely by 2030 was adopted in 2015, when 26 people were killed on the city’s roads. Last year, the number of victims rose to 31.

In her fifth executive order, Wilson set tighter deadlines for projects and endorsed legislative measures, including a possible reduction in Washington state’s legal blood alcohol limit for drivers. The current limit is 0.08% for drivers over 21, 0.04% for commercial drivers and nearly zero — 0.02% — for those under 21. Lowering the limit would require the state Legislature to pass a law and the governor to sign it; a decision by Seattle alone would not be sufficient. Police and courts would also have to update enforcement and legal procedures.

The mayor said the city must focus on solutions whose effectiveness is supported by data and experts, especially on streets with the highest numbers of fatalities and serious injuries. Ninety-three percent of fatal crashes occur on major arterials, including Aurora Avenue, Rainier Avenue, South Jackson Street, Fourth Avenue South and Martin Luther King Jr. Way South.

These roads feature wide lanes, long straight stretches, high speeds, numerous intersections and driveways serving private properties. On Aurora Avenue, commercial development and frequent U-turns create additional risks. Rainier Avenue combines complicated intersections, transit stops and heavy traffic involving cars, pedestrians and cyclists. On Martin Luther King Jr. Way South, the long distances between crosswalks and the scale of the street may encourage speeding. This design increases both the likelihood of collisions and the severity of their consequences.

Wilson acknowledged that Seattle is not moving toward its goal quickly enough but rejected the idea that the program has failed. The executive order followed years of reviews of Vision Zero and criticism of its implementation. A 2023 review found that the city needed to invest more in safety and take measures capable of slowing traffic or creating some inconvenience for drivers. City Councilmember Rob Saka has also called for a new audit.

During Wilson’s first year in office, the city expanded dedicated bus lanes on Denny Way, installed speed humps and protective gates on Lake Washington Boulevard, and introduced regular summer weekend closures of the road for cyclists. Gordon Padelford, executive director of Seattle Streets Alliance, called the new order bold and substantive. He noted that it addresses both small steps — such as installing side guards on city trucks — and systemic problems involving the slow approval of projects.

An interagency group will be created to coordinate the work, with representatives from the transportation, police and fire departments, public utilities, legal and budget offices, and the mayor’s office. Chief Safety Officer Wen Nemani will lead the group and be empowered to remove bureaucratic obstacles.

Wilson also endorsed automated speed-enforcement cameras. In Seattle, they record civil rather than criminal violations: the registered owner of a vehicle receives a notice, usually with a photograph and a fine. Cameras may be installed only in locations authorized by state law and city rules, while complying with requirements for warning signs and driver notification. The city may use fine revenue to build and improve crosswalks, sidewalks and bicycle infrastructure; calm traffic; improve lighting; protect transit stops; and fund other projects included in the budget.

A mechanism for quickly implementing improvements is due by January 2027. Several projects have already been moved up, including protected bike lanes, traffic-calming measures, reconstruction of 19 dangerous intersections and additional pedestrian crossing time at 40 crossings. Wilson believes Seattle can still achieve zero traffic deaths by 2030, but doing so will require political will and substantial resources.

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Based on: Seattle mayor orders overhaul of effort to stop road deaths, injuries

New State Psychiatric Hospital Building Reaches Major Milestone

In Lakewood, Pierce County, officials held a ceremony to install the final structural beam atop the main building of the new facility at Western State Hospital. The $947 million project is considered the largest capital investment in Washington state history.

The hospital is located in Lakewood for a reason. It was founded in the 19th century as a large rural psychiatric complex, which required extensive land and relative isolation. The existing campus near Tacoma allows the state to expand the institution without purchasing expensive property and building an entirely new complex in Seattle or Tacoma—projects that would also require addressing security, transportation and coordination with local authorities.

At the ceremony, Gov. Bob Ferguson and other state leaders spoke about the future facility’s importance to Washington residents. Nearby, however, hospital employees were protesting, calling for a fair labor agreement, higher wages and safer working conditions.

The “topping out” ceremony symbolizes the completion of the building’s main structural frame. About two more years of work remain, including outfitting the rooms, completing mechanical and electrical systems, and preparing to transfer patients. Occupancy is scheduled to begin in fall 2028.

The new building will be able to house 350 forensic psychiatric patients. These are people accused of crimes who have been found unable to understand the charges against them or work with their attorneys and therefore need treatment before criminal proceedings can continue. The hospital treats these patients and assesses their progress, but it does not determine guilt; courts make subsequent decisions. The corrections system primarily oversees convicted people serving sentences and does not replace specialized forensic psychiatric treatment.

This patient category is currently the largest among those needing treatment in the state. Over the next six years, Washington is projected to need 1,157 beds for forensic psychiatric patients, not including beds for people ordered into treatment by civil courts.

The project could also help Washington regain federal funding. In 2018, the hospital lost its certification from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, or CMS, the federal agency that oversees health care facilities’ participation in the programs. The state subsequently lost about $53 million in annual support, while state hospitals faced increased oversight and greater reliance on temporary state funding.

Angela Ramirez, secretary of the Department of Social and Health Services, said regaining CMS certification could potentially reduce the state’s costs. To do so, the hospital will have to demonstrate compliance with federal standards for safe care, adequate staffing and training, proper medication administration, record-keeping, emergency management, infection control and protection of patients’ rights. Once deficiencies are corrected, CMS must confirm compliance, and federal inspectors may conduct unannounced inspections.

Officials emphasize that construction is on schedule and under budget. Even so, the new building will not solve the problem completely. Once it opens, the campus will have about 1,190 beds, but Lakewood’s permit allows only 867 beds to be occupied at one time. This municipal limit applies to the maximum number of occupied beds across the entire campus. Therefore, the physical availability of additional rooms does not mean the hospital can legally fill them without modifying the permit and possibly taking additional measures involving security, transportation, water supply and other infrastructure.

Some older buildings will be preserved, but it will probably not be possible to use all of them. Patients will be transferred in small groups because moving everyone at once is not feasible given safety requirements and the need to prepare staff. The new beds will become genuinely available only when trained employees, stable shift schedules, medical and security infrastructure, the necessary permits and CMS compliance are all in place.

About a dozen hospital workers who belong to the Washington Federation of State Workers union said the celebratory atmosphere did not reflect their reality. Negotiations over a new contract have been underway since April; employees are seeking higher pay to retain specialists and fill vacant positions.

According to the union, understaffing increases the risk of assaults on workers, leads to overburdened shifts and can delay treatment. It could also complicate patient transfers and prevent the safe use of new beds after construction is complete. Employees say state officials are talking about transforming the system while refusing to invest in the people who will work in the new building every day.

Labor disputes could lead to strikes, increased turnover and limits on transfers between hospital units. After similar disagreements in 2024, employees went on strike and are planning another walkout next week.

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Based on: Final beam marks construction milestone for Western State Hospital

Seattle in Focus: Baseball, Light Rail and Strategic Shifts

This digest covers key developments in Seattle: the Mariners are preparing to strengthen their roster in September and moving struggling pitcher Bryce Miller to the bullpen, while transit agency Sound Transit is launching a pilot program to install fare gates at 14 light-rail stations in an effort to combat fare evasion.

September Reinforcements: Who Could the Seattle Mariners Call Up?

Every September, Major League Baseball enters a special period: rosters expand from 26 to 28 players. For teams battling for a playoff spot, this is an opportunity not only to rest veterans but also to address specific weaknesses. The Seattle Mariners, locked in a tense fight for the American League West title, approach this moment with several obvious and intriguing options. Under the rules, clubs may carry no more than 14 pitchers, so at least one position player is guaranteed to join the roster—and possibly two. Seattle appears inclined to add one pitcher and one position player, especially if the team decides to move to a six-man rotation, which would leave the bullpen shorthanded.

The most logical candidate to bolster the offense appears to be Michael Arroyo. The 21-year-old right-handed-hitting infielder could help address the Mariners’ chronic problem this season: their consistent struggles against left-handed pitchers. Since being promoted to Triple-A on July 7, he has posted impressive numbers: a .271 batting average with an .810 OPS, seven home runs and nine doubles. His August numbers, however, are less encouraging—just a .208 average and a .693 OPS, suggesting a downturn. The bigger question is not even his statistics but his position: Arroyo is accustomed to playing second base, where Cole Young is firmly established, while he remains raw in left field, where the team has been trying to fit him in. Randy Arozarena, the club’s best defensive outfielder this year, also plays there. One possible scenario would be to use Arroyo as a shortstop and as Young’s replacement against left-handers.

If Seattle’s front office wants to add pure power, the best choice would be Lazaro Montes. His 37 home runs across two levels of the farm system rank second among all minor-league players, and in August he leads the Pacific Coast League in that category. Montes does have an Achilles’ heel: an enormous strikeout rate—30.9% in the minors—and only a 70.5% contact rate on pitches in the zone since his promotion. By comparison, Colt Emerson, who was recently called up to the major-league roster, struck out 27.2% of the time in Triple-A and made contact on 85% of pitches in the zone, and even he has struggled. The roster is already crowded with outfielders: besides Arozarena and Julio Rodríguez, there are Dominic Canzone and newcomer Taylor Ward. Ward has struggled since arriving in the trade, however, leaving a small window of opportunity for Montes at designated hitter and in right field.

Leo Rivas is another particularly interesting name. Last year, he was one of the underrated heroes of the championship season, but he struggled after making the major-league roster this year, hitting just .147 with a .460 OPS in 47 games. Nevertheless, his ability to play anywhere, his speed and his knack for delivering key hits could bring him back. In his most recent stint with the major-league team, he produced a walk-off hit and the following day delivered a two-out RBI single in the ninth inning that set up Arozarena’s walk-off home run. The alternative is Ryan Bliss, who has consistently enjoyed a strong year in Tacoma: a .265 average, seven home runs, 30 doubles and 24 stolen bases in 104 games. His strengths are speed and versatility.

The pitching situation is more defined. The leading candidate is Cooper Criswell, an underrated but critically important bullpen workhorse. He has not played since June 9 because of a shoulder strain, but he has begun a rehabilitation assignment. In his first game, he allowed three runs over one-third of an inning; in his second, on Tuesday, he pitched a clean inning. Before the injury, he had posted excellent numbers: a 3.52 ERA, 23 strikeouts and eight walks over 30⅔ innings. His ability to cover multiple innings is exactly what the Mariners lack. If Criswell is not ready by September 1, there are backup options: Nick Davila, who has a 4.10 ERA this season, or left-hander Josh Simpson, whose major-league numbers are alarming—a 9.82 ERA—but who would give the bullpen a third left-handed option.

The most intriguing, though unlikely, possibility is Ryan Sloan. The 20-year-old prospect began the year struggling in Double-A, but he has shone over the past two months: a 2.35 ERA, 57 strikeouts and just three walks over 46 innings in nine starts. Promoting him would be a bold statement, but Matt Brash’s potential return in September reduces Sloan’s chances. Still, baseball’s decisive month often produces surprises, and if the Mariners decide they need a fresh arm in the bullpen, Sloan could become the unexpected ace up their sleeve.

What does this mean for the team? First, roster expansion is not merely a formality but a strategic tool for creating favorable matchups against specific opponents. With the division race so close, every decision by manager Dan Wilson will be scrutinized. Second, choosing Arroyo or Montes would reveal the team’s priorities: either targeted help against left-handers or a bet on raw power that could pay off—or fail. Third, Criswell’s return would be almost like a trade-deadline acquisition: he could stabilize a bullpen that has looked overworked this season. Finally, the fate of Rivas and Bliss is a question of depth and chemistry. At decisive moments, managers often trust players who have been through the situation before, even when their numbers are unimpressive. As experience shows, September reinforcements can determine not only the outcome of a single game but an entire season, because every September win matters just as much as one in April. Mariners fans should keep a close eye on news from Tacoma this coming weekend—the players headed to conquer the playoffs may be decided there.

Surprise Move by the Mariners: Bryce Miller Sent to the Bullpen

The Seattle Mariners have made a difficult roster decision that undoubtedly surprised many fans and players alike. Rather than experimenting with the preferred “piggyback” strategy—in which two pitchers split a game by taking turns—or introducing a six-day rotation during the remaining five weeks of the regular season, the team chose the most direct option: moving one of its starting pitchers to the bullpen. The decision, made ahead of Friday’s game against the Toronto Blue Jays, was announced by manager Dan Wilson. He quickly sought to reassure everyone, saying that Bryce Miller’s move was temporary and intended to give the pitcher a breather, allow him to reset and help him return to his best form.

The situation itself was delicate. After Wednesday’s loss to Philadelphia, Miller was informed that changes were coming. Friday began with uncertainty for him: he was asked to delay his pregame throwing session and be ready to enter in an emergency if starting pitcher Bryan Woo felt discomfort in his shoulder or lost command early. In the end, the Mariners lost 6–0, and Miller’s help was not needed. After the game, however, having completed his scheduled workout, he was summoned to the manager’s office, where he met with president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto, general manager Justin Hollander, pitching coach Pete Woodworth and director of pitching Trent Blank. Miller called the day “strange” and the meeting fairly lengthy, adding that the details of the conversation would remain within the club.

Justin Hollander explained that the decision was not spontaneous: “We want Bryce to become the pitcher he is again—the pitcher who attacks the zone aggressively with his four-seam fastball and uses his splitter and other pitches to finish hitters. His last eight to 10 starts have been difficult. We don’t make decisions like this lightly.” The statistics certainly speak for themselves. Miller began the season on the injured list with an oblique strain, returned on May 13 and pitched brilliantly in his first nine games, going 4–2 with a 1.71 ERA. His fastball had more velocity and life, while his splitter was nearly unhittable. His last eight starts, however, have been a nightmare: no wins, six losses and a 7.19 ERA. Over 41⅓ innings, he allowed 47 hits, including 10 home runs, issued 20 walks and recorded just 30 strikeouts. The Mariners lost all eight games in which he started.

Miller, who has not hidden his disappointment, nevertheless acknowledges that the criticism is fair. “I’m not going to pretend I’ve pitched great over the last month. I recognize that my recent outings haven’t been what I wanted. It all comes down to executing pitches and getting outs in big moments. I haven’t handled that this month,” he admitted honestly. At the same time, he remains confident in himself and considers himself a starting pitcher for the long term. “I’ve never doubted myself. When I’m going well, I’m one of the best starters in the league. I told them, ‘Do whatever you want with me. I’ll do whatever you tell me to do.’” Interestingly, some scouts viewed Miller as a reliever in college, and he converted to starting only during his final years there.

Miller’s role in the bullpen has yet to be clearly defined. He will likely be used in long-relief situations, especially on days when rookie Cade Anderson takes the mound with his 85-pitch limit. Hollander hinted that the best version of Bryce could be deployed in the most tense moments of a game. However, the organization insists that this is not the end of his career as a starter. “I don’t know whether he’ll return to the rotation in two weeks or start preparing for next year’s spring training as a starter. I do know one thing: this is not forever,” Hollander concluded.

Meanwhile, injured players are also with the team in Toronto: outfielder Brendan Donovan, recovering from a concussion, and pitcher Matt Brash, who is returning to his home province of Ontario and is already close to beginning a rehabilitation assignment. A Seattle Times report notes that Donovan is wearing earplugs to protect himself from the noise at the stadium, and the team hopes to determine his return timeline in the coming days.

This Mariners move is a vivid example of how professional sports, stripped of sentimentality, demand quick and pragmatic decisions in the middle of a playoff race. Moving a talented pitcher who is going through a slump to the bullpen is not a verdict but rather an attempt to reset his career and save the team’s season. Fans can only hope that this “strange day” becomes a turning point in Miller’s career rather than the beginning of his decline.

New Fare Gates in Seattle: How Fare Evasion Will Be Tackled on Light Rail

Seattle authorities have decided to take the problem of fare evasion on the light-rail system seriously. It sounds like an ordinary transportation-reform story, but behind the decision lies a broader drama involving money, social justice and the future of urban mobility. Regional transit agency Sound Transit has approved a pilot program to install fare gates at 14 of the busiest stations, hoping to address financial problems that threaten the ambitious expansion of the network.

The scale of the problem facing officials is striking: roughly one in three light-rail passengers in the Seattle area simply does not pay the fare. This is more than a statistic—it represents millions of dollars the agency needs to complete the ST3 program, which calls for extending service to areas such as West Seattle and Ballard. In response, Sound Transit leadership has decided to follow the example of other major American cities—New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco—where fare gates have been a familiar feature of subway systems for decades.

According to the published plan, fare gates will be installed at all nine stations between Northgate and Chinatown, as well as stations in Lynnwood, SeaTac Airport, Federal Way, Bellevue and Redmond. The locations were not chosen at random: more than 85% of all system ridership passes through them. Installation will begin no earlier than late 2029, and the pilot period will continue through 2034, when analysts estimate that the investment will begin to pay for itself through increased fare collection. The project carries a significant price tag: $6 million for design and planning has already been approved, while total construction and equipment costs are estimated at $87 million. Additional revenue is expected to reach approximately $30 million per year.

The reform has nevertheless drawn mixed reactions from passengers, and this is perhaps the most interesting part of the story. Take Si Gabriel, for example, who regularly uses the subway and pays for a monthly pass. She clearly expressed a view shared by many: “I understand that some people want everyone to pay, but I’m not one of them. If someone can’t afford the fare, we should let them ride. How can people find jobs and build their lives if they can’t get where they need to go?” King County already has a reduced-fare program for low-income residents—ORCA LIFT—which lowers the fare to $1 per trip. Clearly, however, not everyone who needs it knows about the program or is able to use it.

On the other hand, there are passengers like Charles Berry, who believes fare gates are right and fair. “It’s the right idea—people need to pay. It gives us the trips we need, and paying helps the system develop,” he said. Passenger Susan Stearns, who uses the subway to travel to the ferry, recalls a recent experience with fare inspectors: “A few months ago, we encountered such polite employees checking tickets. But I think fare gates are more cost-effective than hiring staff. I’m fine with it.”

Interestingly, the experience of other cities cited by fare-gate supporters is not as clear-cut as it may seem. John Wallis, who moved from Seattle to New York, is skeptical about the effectiveness of such measures: “I don’t think they help much. If someone wants to ride without a ticket, they’ll find a way. I like it better here in New York.” His observation is supported by studies showing that fare evasion on the New York subway remains high despite all the barriers.

One of the key changes for passengers will be the need to tap their ORCA card when exiting a station, rather than only when entering, as is currently the case. This will require a new habit, but designers believe it will allow the agency to track passenger flows more accurately and collect fares for the entire journey. The agency also promises that the planning process will pay particular attention to ensuring that young people and reduced-fare cardholders can pass through the gates without difficulty. Fare-enforcement staff are expected to be able to open gates for such passengers, while on-site personnel will help people apply for reduced-fare or free passes.

The financial aspect of the story is also significant. Sound Transit finds itself in a difficult position: on one hand, it must complete the network expansion promised to voters; on the other, doing so will be nearly impossible without additional revenue. Installing fare gates is seen as a relatively quick and effective solution that could generate up to $30 million annually. Critics, however, rightly point out that the measure effectively imposes an additional burden on people already close to poverty and could worsen social inequality in access to transportation.

In any case, the decision has been made, and Seattle residents will have to prepare for a new set of rules. The question remains: how successful will this pilot program be, and will fare gates help public transportation grow or instead create additional barriers for those who most need affordable mobility? Time will tell, but it is already clear that Seattle has opted for stricter enforcement—and that choice will generate plenty of debate in the years ahead. More about the decision can be found in the KUOW article.

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Seattle school district approves budget amid strike threat

The Seattle School Board unanimously approved a $1.34 billion budget for the city’s public schools for the 2026–27 school year. The decision came after several months of work to reduce the district’s projected $87 million deficit.

The vote took place on the same day that the Seattle Education Association gained the authority to call a strike. That could delay the start of the school year, as happened in 2022, when classes began five days late. In that event, families would have to arrange child care and adjust their work schedules, while the district would have to make up the missed school days. A strike could also disrupt cafeterias, transportation and other school services. Employees would risk losing pay for the days they protest, but they hope to strengthen their negotiating position on wages, class sizes and working conditions.

The union, which represents about 6,000 teachers, instructional assistants, secretaries, counselors and other workers, is seeking raises of 1% to 3% for certificated employees and 3% to 5% for employees without teaching certificates, in addition to the state-mandated 2.6% cost-of-living adjustment. The last strike, in 2022, ended with an agreement providing raises of 7% in the first year, 4% in the second and 3% in the third. Last year’s one-year contract included a 2.5% pay increase.

One of the central disputes remains spending on personnel and instruction, which accounts for about 72% of the budget. The approved plan calls for roughly $50 million in cuts. The budget is technically balanced, but the district will use $21 million from its reserve fund, which is intended to cover unexpected expenses and help maintain stable operations.

About $9.8 million will be saved through a reorganization of the central administration. Under Superintendent Ben Shuldiner’s plan to eliminate “administrative bloat,” the district will eliminate about 69 full-time positions and cut other nonpersonnel expenses.

The district expects to save another $9.6 million by eliminating roughly 57 positions in schools. Staff are still being reassigned among buildings, so the final effects of these changes have not yet been determined.

The changes will also affect school buses. The district combines its own operations with services from private contractors. Zum will add 130 routes and hire 150 drivers, while First Student will reduce its services and operate about 20% of the district’s routes. District officials say shifting a larger share of the routes to Zum will reduce costs through lower prices, route consolidation and more efficient use of buses and drivers. However, the transition could lead to schedule changes and temporary disruptions. Transportation remains one of the district’s most expensive areas because it must operate a large number of routes and transport students with special needs.

To balance the budget, the district will also delay replenishing its reserve fund, use refunds under the federal Inflation Reduction Act and direct interest income from its capital fund toward instructional and capital needs. These measures are considered temporary and do not resolve the underlying problem — a persistent gap between revenue and obligations.

According to Shuldiner, the district remains “structurally insolvent.” That means its recurring revenue is insufficient to cover mandatory expenses even after one-time cuts and the use of reserves. Unlike a temporary deficit, which can be covered with accumulated funds or short-term savings, this situation requires long-term changes — permanently reducing expenses, finding new revenue sources, renegotiating contracts or seeking state intervention.

Special education and transportation are placing particularly heavy pressure on the budget. Students with special needs require individualized programs, small groups, specialized teachers, aides and sometimes costly outside services, while public funding does not always cover the actual costs. Such expenses cannot be cut quickly without violating the law or reducing children’s access to education.

The budget could turn negative as soon as the 2027–28 school year. If that happens, Washington state could require the district to submit a corrective-action plan, increase financial oversight or limit its autonomy. The superintendent prepares the budget and manages the district’s day-to-day operations, while the elected School Board approves it and oversees its implementation. The state establishes funding rules and formulas and does not usually immediately replace a School Board, but it can significantly intervene in district management if the district is unable to balance its budget.

District leaders’ goal is to increase reserves to $100 million by 2031. However, board members acknowledge that the supply of temporary solutions is nearly exhausted. Unexpected expenses are adding to the financial pressure, including a 54% increase in liability insurance costs, as is the continuing gap between the cost of mandated services and available funding.

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Based on: Seattle School Board approves SPS budget

How to Gently Reset Your Child’s Sleep Schedule Before School

After summer vacation, trips and late nights, it is important for children to return to their school routine in advance. Sufficient sleep helps them concentrate, learn and cope with everyday demands. Preschoolers may need up to 13 hours of sleep per day, younger adolescents 9 to 12 hours, and teenagers approximately 8–10 hours.

Experts recommend starting preparations one to two weeks before school begins. You can gradually move bedtime 15–30 minutes earlier each night or set an earlier bedtime right away. Before bed, it is best to avoid giving children heavy food and to turn off the television, phone and other screens about two hours beforehand. A shower, quiet reading and other calm activities can help them relax.

Natural light also affects sleep schedules. In the Seattle area, early summer sunrises and late sunsets can make it harder for children to fall asleep on time, so blackout curtains may be useful. In winter, daylight hours are noticeably shorter: sunrise usually occurs after 7:30 a.m., and cloudy weather can make waking up difficult. Consistent bedtimes and wake-up times, along with bright morning light—through a window or outdoors—help the body adjust to a new schedule.

Parents should take their child’s individual needs into account and discuss changes to the routine with them. Sometimes allowing a few extra minutes for reading before bed is reasonable, while a difficult morning after staying up too late can serve as a natural lesson. The important thing is to maintain reasonable consistency without turning back-to-school preparations into constant conflict.

Anxiety about the first day of school can make it difficult to fall asleep even when bedtime is early. Parents are advised to calmly find out what is causing the worry—for example, fear of a new school or meeting classmates—and to practice potentially stressful situations in advance. Washington state schools do not follow a single adjustment process: each school district sets its own schedule. However, many schools hold meetings for parents and new students, tours, orientation days, events for first-graders and children moving on to middle or high school, as well as meetings with teachers and preparatory programs.

Even if it was not possible to establish a perfect routine in advance, children usually adapt gradually. Parents are advised not to demand instant results, but to begin with manageable changes, remain calm and support their child. Adjusting to a school schedule can be difficult for the whole family, but consistency, kindness and attention to living conditions—including seasonal daylight hours—can make the process much easier.

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Based on: How to reset your child’s sleep schedule for back-to-school season

Partial lunar eclipse over Seattle delights residents

Despite the forecast for cloudy weather, many residents of the Puget Sound region were able to observe a partial lunar eclipse Thursday evening. The phenomenon was visible from Lake Forest Park near Seattle, among other places; it was photographed by The Seattle Times photographer Dean Rutz.

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Based on: Partial lunar eclipse over Seattle: See photos

Wave Energy Testing Site Opens Off Oregon Coast

PacWave South has begun operating off the Oregon coast as the first large-scale site in the continental United States where companies can test technologies for generating electricity from ocean waves. The facility received the necessary federal approval during Donald Trump’s administration, despite the fact that its broader policies have created serious obstacles to the development of clean energy, particularly offshore wind power.

Oregon State University developed the project. After Trump returned to the White House in 2025, PacWave had to undergo a special “continue or close” review by the Department of Energy, and its launch required approval from the energy secretary. The permit was issued last summer, and the connection to the power grid was completed this summer. However, the site is not yet producing electricity: the testing devices have not arrived because of delays in federal funding.

PacWave South’s location on the open Pacific coast makes it possible to test equipment in conditions similar to those of actual operation. The area regularly experiences powerful, persistent waves, as well as winter storms that create extreme loads for energy converters. At the same time, cold water, strong currents, deep water and a rich marine ecosystem make testing more difficult and require additional safety measures.

Since 2016, the Department of Energy has invested nearly $150 million in designing and building the facility. PacWave South is intended to simplify testing and permitting, which have held back the development of tidal, current and wave energy for decades. Unlike electricity generated from coal, oil and gas, marine energy does not produce carbon dioxide emissions.

Connecting to the local grid will allow developers to assess not only the amount of electricity generated, but also the devices’ operational stability, power quality, the effectiveness of safety systems and the compatibility of the equipment with Oregon’s power-grid requirements. The energy produced will be carried to shore through underwater cables and then transmitted to the regional grid. PacWave South, however, is intended primarily for testing rather than commercial electricity production.

According to federal estimates, marine energy could theoretically meet about 57% of U.S. electricity needs. Even partial use of that potential could significantly affect the nation’s power system. The administration also emphasizes the importance of wave technologies for national security: they could supply power to remote sensors, autonomous underwater vehicles and military facilities that require reliable and discreet electricity.

PacWave South will be the first such facility connected to the grid in the continental United States; previously, a similar site operated only in Hawaii, where it was owned by the U.S. Navy. In addition, the facility already has the necessary permits, so developers will not have to obtain them independently for every test. This will save time and money and remove one of the main barriers facing the young global industry.

Future tests must comply with U.S. federal laws and Oregon regulations, including rules protecting marine mammals, endangered species, water quality and fisheries. Projects undergo environmental reviews and consultations with regulators, and they also require discussions with fishermen, tribes and other users of marine resources. Such conditions may restrict the timing of operations, vessel routes, noise levels, and the types of anchors and cables used. Animal monitoring may be required during testing, along with suspending operations when animals are present; if significant harm is detected, regulators may change permit conditions or prohibit certain types of work.

Several types of wave-energy converters can be tested at the site. Point absorbers, resembling buoys, rise and fall with the waves, converting that motion into electricity. Oscillating water columns force air through a turbine, while long, floating attenuator devices generate energy by flexing in response to waves. Underwater cables will carry the electricity produced to shore and into the local grid.

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Based on: Wave energy testing site opens off Oregon, a green energy milestone in the Trump administration

Seattle’s Young Performers Reimagine Peter Pan

More than 80 students ages 9 to 18 are preparing to take the stage at Seattle’s McCaw Hall. Beginning Friday, they will sing, dance and act in Peter Pan: Ready to Grow Up — an annual summer musical for teenagers organized by Seattle Parks and Recreation in partnership with the nonprofit theater organization Acts On Stage.

The city department typically supports such programs through the city budget, grants and partnerships with nonprofit organizations. It provides venues, helps coordinate recruitment and scheduling, and professional directors and instructors lead classes. Funding arrangements may vary depending on the specific program and year.

This year, the classic story of a boy who does not want to grow up has taken on a contemporary resonance: The production addresses gun violence among young people. Its creators aim to show that growing up should not be dangerous or hopeless, particularly for Black boys, and that society needs to create safer, more positive paths toward the future for children.

The production’s theme is especially relevant after the shooting at the Bite of Seattle festival on July 26. Three people were killed and four others, including a young child, were injured. After a 15-year-old suspect was arrested, Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson and other city leaders called for significant action to combat gun violence among teenagers.

The Bite of Seattle is one of the city’s largest free festivals, attracting a diverse audience each year, including families and teenagers. As a result, such large public events become venues not only for recreation but also for community campaigns focused on youth safety and violence prevention.

The musical’s participants came from different parts of the region, including Tacoma and Lynnwood. For the past 10 weeks, they have rehearsed from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The younger actors will receive scholarships of up to $599 at the end of the summer, while 16-year-old participants work as city employees and earn minimum wage.

Seventeen-year-old Jemarius McClain, an upcoming graduate of Cleveland High School, will play Captain Hook. He has long dreamed of portraying the famous villain and, during rehearsals, sets aside his own arm for several hours to transform into the hook-handed character.

For many teenagers, Acts On Stage has become not only a theater school but also a true community. Seventeen-year-old Jamie Michelle-Charles, who plays Wendy and has participated in the program for five years, says theater helped her become more confident and emerge from her shell after a difficult period during the pandemic. In this production, she will play Wendy for the final time before graduating from high school.

The role of Peter Pan is played by 18-year-old Nikkari Lomax, a recent graduate of Tacoma Online. Before joining Acts On Stage, he performed with a predominantly white theater group and felt like an outsider there. At the new organization, he immediately felt supported and was able to expand his circle of friends and connections within his community.

In recent weeks, the cast rehearsed in the small space of the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute, and on Tuesday they rehearsed at McCaw Hall for the first time. The institute plays an important role in Seattle’s Black community: It preserves African American theater and musical traditions, provides artists with space for self-expression, and helps young people develop skills in acting, dance, music and stagecraft.

McCaw Hall, located in the Seattle Center complex, seats 2,900 people and is equipped with professional theatrical infrastructure. For aspiring actors, performing at such a venue offers experience working before a large audience in a real professional theater. Educators believe the experience can change how young performers see themselves: After seeing themselves in such a space, they begin to believe they can achieve more.

Performances will run from Aug. 28 through 30. The schedule and ticket information can be found on the organizers’ website.

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Based on: Seattle teens bring Peter Pan to McCaw Hall — with contemporary twist

Seattle: From Housing Affordability to Animal Cruelty

Seattle is facing three problems: a record exodus of homebuyers driven by high prices—83.8% are searching for homes in other regions—the discovery of dangerous lead contamination in the Interbay neighborhood, and the shocking killing of a goose in South Lake Union. The city is trying to address economic, environmental, and social challenges simultaneously.

Seattle Homebuyers Are Leaving the Local Market in Droves: What’s Behind the Record Exodus

Seattle’s real estate market is experiencing a paradoxical situation: local residents are actively looking for homes outside their region, and the scale of this flight is striking. According to a new Realtor.com report published this week, as many as 83.8% of online views of home listings by buyers from the Seattle–Tacoma–Bellevue metropolitan area were directed at properties in other regions. This is the third-highest rate among the 100 largest cities in the United States, pointing to a deep affordability crisis in one of the country’s most technologically advanced states.

The reasons for this buyer behavior are clear and tied to two key economic indicators. First, Seattle’s median listing price reached nearly $780,000 in the second quarter—a staggering amount even for a state with high salaries. Second, the unemployment rate is 5%, above the national average. This combination of high prices and labor-market instability is pushing people to look toward other states, where the same amount of money can buy much more. Tellingly, Portland was the top destination for Seattle’s would-be exiles: housing prices there are 25% lower, while the unemployment rate is identical to Seattle’s. In other words, people are not moving there for jobs, but specifically for more affordable housing.

Realtor.com senior economist Jiayi Xu says the trend reflects a nationwide divide: in cheaper regions, residents stay put and even attract buyers from expensive cities, while areas with inflated prices and weak labor markets experience a mass exodus. Seattle, along with Los Angeles, falls into the second category. Interestingly, both cities are sending many of their buyers to San Francisco, where, despite astronomical housing costs, the labor market is much stronger and can offset housing expenses. The problem is especially acute on the West Coast: nearly two-thirds of all property views from the region are directed elsewhere, and that share continues to rise each year. The Midwest and South are seeing the opposite pattern, with residents largely staying in their cities thanks to more reasonable prices.

Even more concerning, according to Redfin, buyers in the Seattle area now need to earn about $219,000 a year to afford a median-priced home. At the same time, the market is showing a paradox: inventory is rising while sales are falling, creating even more pressure on buyers. For a decade, Washington state officials have tried to address housing affordability through tighter regulations and new fees and taxes on developers. But the result has been the opposite of what was intended: the city has become so unattractive to its own residents that they would rather buy property in other states. According to the Realtor.com report, only 16.2% of views remained within the Seattle market in the second quarter, placing the city alongside some of America’s most expensive metropolitan areas, such as San Jose and Washington, D.C., where the situation is even worse. This flight of buyers is not merely a statistic; it is a sign that the local real estate market has become completely detached from the means of working residents. Without sweeping changes to the state’s housing policy, the trend is unlikely to change anytime soon.

Lead on the Loose: Seattle Battles an Invisible Threat in Interbay

In the heart of Seattle, in the quiet Interbay neighborhood, a situation is unfolding that is prompting residents to reconsider the safety of seemingly ordinary surroundings. City crews have discovered elevated levels of lead in soil and water on public property, and work is now underway: specialized teams are cleaning roads and storm drains, while officials are advising pedestrians to seek alternate routes. The problem did not emerge by chance—it appears to be linked to a local battery manufacturer whose employees may have unintentionally carried the dangerous metal beyond the plant.

The situation began with what initially appeared to be a routine workplace-safety inspection at Dyno Battery, located nearby. In March, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries fined the company for violations related to workers’ exposure to lead. The Department of Health then took up the issue, raising the alarm in April: employees could be bringing lead dust home on their clothing, shoes, and skin, putting their families at risk. That warning set off a chain reaction that led to the discovery of contamination in public areas.

According to information published in a KOMO article, samples collected in late July and confirmed in August revealed alarming figures. A soil sample from the roadway contained 55.3 parts per million (ppm) of leachable lead, while a storm drain contained as much as 451 ppm. That is more than ten and 90 times, respectively, the state’s hazardous-waste threshold of 5 ppm. Consider the potential scale of the problem: even simply walking along the road on a rainy day could cause lead particles to stick to shoes or stroller wheels.

The most troubling aspect of the story, however, is not just the numbers but their potential impact on the most vulnerable group—children. A private preschool is located near the contaminated area. Health officials tested water and dust there in mid-August. The good news is that lead levels did not exceed the standard in the areas where children spend time. But there is also bad news: three of the 11 samples exceeded Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) limits, even though they were not taken in play areas. Lead is particularly dangerous because it has no color or odor, and its accumulation in children’s bodies can cause irreversible harm to nervous-system development. That is why officials emphasize that dust can “travel” on shoes, stroller wheels, and wheelchair wheels, entering homes and offices.

As city agencies, including Seattle Public Utilities, work with state and federal authorities to conduct additional testing and determine the extent and precise source of the contamination, residents are receiving simple but vital advice. Experts strongly recommend removing shoes before entering the home and wiping stroller wheels with a damp cloth after going outside. This is not panic, but a preventive measure that can help protect people’s health. Authorities are also working with Dyno Battery employees to arrange blood-lead testing, helping the preschool remove potentially dangerous dust and advising parents on how to protect their children.

In essence, this case vividly illustrates how industrial problems can quietly spread beyond a factory and become an environmental headache for an entire neighborhood. One can only wonder how many other hidden threats may be lurking in the soil beneath residents’ feet—and how quickly the system can detect and neutralize them before they cause harm. For now, the main priority is to prevent lead from the soil from reaching children’s bodies, since the consequences could be far too high a price to pay for inattention.

Goose Brutally Killed in South Lake Union: Seattle Animal Shelter Seeks Suspect

An incident in Seattle’s scenic South Lake Union neighborhood has shocked local residents and visitors to the lake. On Monday evening, at around 5:30 p.m., a witness saw a man grab a goose by the neck and repeatedly slam it against the concrete. The Seattle Animal Shelter has begun investigating the disturbing case of animal cruelty. According to the witness, who declined a video interview, they managed to photograph the suspect as he left the scene. The images show a man wearing a red T-shirt bearing the words “No nerds, no birds.” The phrase is reportedly a slogan of the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA), a union representing more than 20,000 aerospace workers, many of whom are employed by Boeing. A SPEEA representative declined to comment, and the animal shelter has not yet been able to confirm whether the suspect is affiliated with the union.

The incident provoked a strong reaction among people who regularly visit the lake. Josephine Saltmarsh, who comes there every day during her lunch break, said she found what happened “truly cruel and frightening.” She noted that geese can certainly be annoying, but that does not justify violence against a living creature. Another visitor, Jim Hall, who was walking with his nephew, wryly suggested that the man might have “a problem with birds” and added that “animal-rights activists would probably like to have a word with him.” In conversations with reporters, many people expressed disbelief and shock that something like this could happen in such a peaceful and popular place. The animal shelter has already contacted the nearby Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) to obtain surveillance footage that may have captured the attack.

The slogan “No nerds, no birds” itself has an interesting origin. SPEEA—the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace—is an independent union that advocates for engineers, technicians, and other specialists. The phrase was originally a humorous way of emphasizing that without engineers (“nerds”), there would be no airplanes (“birds”). In this context, however, it takes on a sinister tone, particularly if the man was preoccupied with fighting birds. It remains unknown whether the suspect was a union member or whether his actions were connected to any ideology. Police and shelter staff are asking anyone with information to contact them immediately at (206) 386-7387 and reference case number C0009675633. The incident once again raises questions about the need for tougher penalties for animal cruelty and the importance of reporting such crimes. As the shelter emphasizes, every report not only helps identify the perpetrator but also helps prevent future acts of violence. As Seattle residents continue visiting the lake and hope the person responsible is found, the incident serves as a reminder that inexplicable cruelty can occur even in the most peaceful places. Details of the investigation have not yet been released, but authorities say they are determined to pursue the case, as reported in the original KIRO 7 article.

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Washington to Test “Social Prescribing” for Mental Health Support

After 24 years of service, veteran Shanda De Anda struggled to return to civilian life in Tacoma. Public places triggered panic reactions and constant hypervigilance. A therapist suggested that she join a choir — an unexpected but effective form of support that helped her feel connected to the world around her again. This approach is known as social prescribing: Health care professionals recommend activities that promote health and well-being rather than clinical treatment.

In July, the Washington State Arts Commission signed a two-year, $250,000 contract with Atlanta-based organization SocialRx. The organization will help develop a social-prescribing system in the state. The pilot project is funded and coordinated by Seattle nonprofit Path with Art, which is also seeking additional sources of support. ArtsWA says state budget funds will not be used; in the future, services could be paid for by insurance companies, government programs, grants, foundations or other payers.

The project is initially planned for King County, home to Seattle and a large network of hospitals, insurers, social-service agencies and cultural organizations. This concentration of infrastructure makes it easier for doctors to coordinate with organizations that provide activities. If successful, the program is expected to expand to other counties across the state. In rural and remote areas, however, large distances, shortages of doctors and social workers, limited transportation and cultural institutions, weak internet access and restricted funding could pose challenges. The needs of tribal communities will also require special consideration.

The modern model of social prescribing emerged in London in the 1980s, when the Bromley by Bow Centre began referring patients to art classes, gardening and other activities. Similar programs spread across the United Kingdom and Europe. In one English project, visits to general practitioners fell by 37% over eight years, while hospitalizations declined by 27%. In the United States, interest in the idea is growing as loneliness and social isolation increasingly become recognized as health risk factors.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, about 1.6 million Washington residents live with mental health conditions. ArtsWA is building a coalition with SocialRx, Path with Art and other organizations to establish operating guidelines with medical institutions and payers. Developing the system will take time, so the first “social prescriptions” will likely not be issued until the contract’s second year.

Under the proposed model, a medical provider would identify a patient’s needs and issue a referral, a social-service or arts organization would provide the activities, and an insurer or government program would pay for approved services. There is no single funding model yet, so grants, foundations and local programs may play a major role during the early stages. Medical providers would need to share only necessary information with participating organizations, with the patient’s consent, while those organizations would have to restrict access to data and comply with confidentiality requirements, including HIPAA rules when handling protected health information.

SocialRx’s model calls for a doctor or other professional to identify loneliness, depression, anxiety or social isolation and refer the patient to a program. A SocialRx staff member contacts the person, learns about their interests — such as ceramics, concerts or dance classes — and helps with transportation, monitoring outcomes and sharing information with the doctor. Participants complete well-being questionnaires when they enroll and after each activity.

In King County, potential project partners, besides Path with Art, could include Seattle Parks and Recreation, Seattle Public Library, King County Library System, Seattle Art Museum, Northwest African American Museum, Pratt Fine Arts Center, UrbanArtWorks, Frye Art Museum and community centers. Accessible facilities, online classes, transportation assistance and adapted programs will be particularly important for people with limited mobility. For participants with low incomes, free places, discounts, scholarships or access through a social-worker referral will be needed.

SocialRx, formerly known as Art Pharmacy, has operated since 2022 and works with organizations in about a dozen states. In 2024, Massachusetts became the first state to enter into a partnership with the company. A 2023–2025 Johns Hopkins University study found that participants reported improved mental health and reduced symptoms of depression, although the study’s authors were hired by SocialRx. The company’s founder, Chris Appleton, has also faced criticism over his previous work at WonderRoot: An independent investigation confirmed instances of unprofessional conduct and financial misconduct. ArtsWA said it reviewed the company’s reputation and continues to have confidence in its infrastructure.

Path with Art has offered similar services in Washington for nearly 20 years, working with about 60 organizations in health care, housing and social services. Its free, trauma-informed arts classes serve about 2,000 people each year — 188% more than in 2020. According to a Johns Hopkins study published in May, more than 80% of participants felt less lonely after eight weeks, while over 90% reported greater confidence in their ability to cope with challenges.

For De Anda, choir sessions marked the beginning of a long recovery. She later attended various creative courses, taught writing and gardening programs based on working with the five senses, and became an ambassador for the nonprofit organization. At one event, she told her husband about her trauma for the first time. De Anda is now studying family therapy at Pacific Lutheran University. Another veteran, Chris Wisdom, says art classes helped her overcome severe social anxiety, and her vivid paintings were later displayed at Seattle’s McCaw Hall.

ArtsWA already connects veterans with creative programs through the Wellness, Arts, and the Military initiative, which it runs jointly with the Department of Veterans Affairs. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs system also uses creative and community activities as supplements to medical and psychological care and may refer veterans to outside organizations, including ArtsWA and Path with Art, when partnerships are formally established, services meet program requirements and are available in the relevant area. Such a referral does not automatically mean the service will be paid for: Funding depends on VA rules, local agreements and the veteran’s eligibility for a particular service.

Air Force veteran Kevin Gaines, who served in Iraq, Afghanistan and Central Africa, has twice received a state grant for art projects. He used it to study airbrushing and draw Dungeons & Dragons characters, which helps him manage post-traumatic stress disorder alongside playing guitar and receiving VA therapy. Gaines says that of all the methods he uses, painting provides the strongest support for his mental health. All three veterans said they would be willing to use a social prescription if doctors offered one. The pilot project will now show whether community-based care can become a practical complement to traditional medicine.

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Based on: WA plans social prescribing pilot: Could doctors prescribe art?

Jaye P. Morgan, Singer, TV Host and ‘Gong Show’ Star, Dies

Jaye P. Morgan, one of the most successful American singers of the 1950s and a charismatic television entertainer, died Monday at age 94. According to her longtime friend and attorney, Mark Sendroff, the cause was natural causes. In recent years, Morgan lived in Longview, Washington, with her nephew and niece.

Longview is a small and relatively affordable city in southwestern Washington, about 50 miles north of Portland, Oregon. Unlike the larger and rapidly growing Seattle, it has an industrial heritage, less dense development and a quieter pace of life. There is no precise public information about why Morgan chose Longview; peace and quiet, housing costs and proximity to nature were likely important factors.

In 1955, Morgan had five hits, including “That’s All I Want From You” and “The Longest Walk.” Her songs “Danger! Heartbreak Ahead,” “If You Don’t Want My Love” and “Pepper-Hot Baby” also reached the top 20. She recorded duets with Perry Como, including “Two Lost Souls,” while her collaboration with Eddy Arnold, “Mutual Admiration Society,” reached No. 47 on the Billboard chart.

Morgan later became a regular guest on popular television programs, including “The Tonight Show” and shows hosted by Merv Griffin, Dick Cavett and Mike Douglas. She also appeared in the series “The Love Boat” and “Fantasy Island.” But she became widely known through her participation in the comedy program “The Gong Show,” where beginning in 1976 she judged contestants’ performances alongside Jamie Farr and Rip Taylor.

The program was part of the popular 1970s trend known as “anti-television” — entertainment that parodied serious competitions and traditional variety-show formats. Amateur performers presented the most unusual acts, and a judge could stop a poor performance by striking a gong. The winner received a check for the deliberately strange amount of $516.32. There is no reliable evidence of a specific cultural or historical reference behind the figure; most likely, its precision itself heightened the show’s absurd humor.

In one episode, Morgan unexpectedly opened her shirt, exposing her breasts, during a performance by dancing stagehand Gene Gene the Dancing Machine. The scandalous moment became one of the program’s defining images. NBC canceled the show in 1978 amid declining ratings, audience fatigue with the format and reputational problems following host Chuck Barris’ departure. Another network later revived the program.

“It paid well and gave me tremendous exposure. I loved it,” Morgan told the Los Angeles Times in a 1992 interview. The New York Times noted that her television improvisations made her better known as an entertainer and distinctive personality than as a singer, although her eccentricity was also evident in her musical style. Television greatly expanded her audience and extended her public career, but over time, for many viewers, her image as a colorful participant in comedy shows overshadowed Morgan’s success on the music charts in the 1950s.

Morgan also appeared in films, including “The All-American Boy” with Jon Voight, “The Gong Show Movie,” “Night Patrol,” “Home Alone 2” and George Clooney’s “Confessions of a Dangerous Mind.” She appeared on “The Muppet Show” and “The Odd Couple,” and toured the country in the musical “Sugar Babies.”

Mary Margaret Morgan was born in a log cabin in Mancos, Colorado. At age 3, she began performing in a family vaudeville act with her parents, sister and five brothers. After her father died in 1945, the act disbanded, but Morgan resumed singing professionally at 17. In 1950, she joined the Frank De Vol Orchestra.

Her career included her own television show, several music albums and regular television appearances. Morgan was married and divorced three times. She is survived by her son, Paul Kane.

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Based on: Jaye P. Morgan, a jack-of-all-trades entertainer who was a pop and TV star, dies at 94

Washington Releases Whiskey Honoring University Cougars

As the academic year and football season get underway at Washington State University, the official Wazzu Whiskey is going on sale. The project is a collaboration between the university’s athletic program and Spokane-based Dry Fly Distilling. The cinnamon-flavored drink combines smooth whiskey notes with a spicy kick and was created as a tribute to the longstanding tradition of fans supporting the university’s crimson and gray colors. The name Wazzu and the image of a Cougar’s head refer to the university’s unofficial nickname and mascot.

A one-liter bottle costs $22.99, and the flavor was developed as a bolder version of the popular cinnamon liqueur Fireball. Dry Fly Distilling President Patrick Donovan spent about a year negotiating with the university; the companies had previously released a limited-edition collaboration. Preorders can be picked up at the distillery starting Thursday, while customers in other regions can have the whiskey shipped to Washington and California. The list of states is expected to expand later.

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Based on: New WA whiskey release is a tribute to WSU Cougar pride

Seattle Mother Arrested After Her One-Year-Old Son Dies

In Seattle, 39-year-old Divina Tanggalan was arrested after the death of her one-year-old son. Preliminary autopsy results showed fentanyl in the child’s blood and urine. The woman was charged with endangering safety in a domestic-violence incident and first-degree unlawful possession of a firearm; police are also investigating possible manslaughter.

Emergency services arrived at an apartment in the Atlantic neighborhood around 12:30 p.m. Sunday after receiving a report that a baby was not breathing and may have ingested fentanyl. Atlantic is located southeast of downtown Seattle, between the Mount Baker, Leschi and Central District neighborhoods. It is primarily residential, with single-family homes, small apartment buildings and local streets, unlike the city’s more commercial and tourist-oriented areas.

According to court documents, the mother told firefighters that she kept drugs in the home and that the child may have gotten access to them. Resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful. Officers who arrived at the scene noticed that the woman appeared intoxicated; she said, “This is all my fault.”

Tanggalan said she struggled with drug addiction and usually kept fentanyl in a locked container on a high shelf in the bathroom so the children could not reach it. According to her account, she fell asleep on the couch around 11 a.m. while holding her son and woke to find him limp and not breathing. The bathroom door was open, but the woman could not explain how the children might have reached the drugs and did not say where they were. Her two-year-old daughter was placed with relatives.

Police believe the mother was the only adult who could have been responsible for the children’s safety at the time of the incident. A .22-caliber handgun was also found in the bathroom, despite Tanggalan’s criminal record. She is also known as Nakia Cunningham.

The medical examiner noted that the available information could be consistent not only with fentanyl exposure but also with sudden infant death syndrome or accidental suffocation during sleep. In Washington state, law enforcement agencies investigate the circumstances in such cases, while the county medical examiner or coroner conducts an autopsy, toxicology screening and other examinations. Specialists review medical records, inspect the scene of the death and interview parents, guardians and witnesses; child-protection services may join the investigation if necessary.

A final determination may be delayed until all test results are available. The medical examiner then establishes the cause and manner of death—natural, accidental, undetermined or related to violence. A preliminary test alone is generally insufficient for a final conclusion or criminal charge. Toxicology testing must determine the precise amount of fentanyl present, after which prosecutors can decide whether to take additional action.

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Based on: Seattle mother arrested after baby dies, tests positive for fentanyl

Blake Lively Awarded $407,000 for Legal Costs

Federal Judge Lewis Liman awarded actress Blake Lively $407,000 to cover legal fees and related expenses in her legal dispute with Justin Baldoni, which arose after the production of the 2024 film It Ends with Us. The amount was significantly less than the $8 million her attorneys had requested.

Lively sought reimbursement for the costs of defending against a defamation lawsuit filed by Baldoni and others associated with him. Although the parties settled their broader dispute in May without any payment to the actress, the agreement preserved her right to seek reimbursement for expenses related to the already-dismissed defamation case.

The case was heard in federal court because there may have been grounds related to the parties’ differing citizenship and the amount in controversy. Federal courts also hear disputes based on federal law and, in some cases, apply state law — in this instance, California law in particular. Most defamation cases and employment disputes are usually handled by state courts, but a case initially filed in state court may be moved to the federal level when appropriate legal grounds exist.

In her original lawsuit, Lively alleged that Baldoni, her co-star and the film’s director, sexually harassed her while they were working on the movie. She said that afterward, an online pressure campaign was organized against her to damage her reputation. Baldoni denied the allegations and said Lively had mischaracterized innocent workplace interactions.

Crisis public relations firms were involved in the dispute, helping the parties shape public perceptions of events, prepare statements for journalists and promote versions favorable to their clients through social media. The judge, however, separated the costs of that work from the expenses of legal defense. Anti-SLAPP laws generally allow reimbursement of reasonable litigation costs — including attorneys’ fees, court costs and expert services — but not expenses related to influencing public opinion. PR expenses could have been included in the award only if they were shown to be directly necessary for the legal defense.

The judge limited the award to expenses related to defending against the defamation lawsuit and associated legal work. He rejected several claims, including charges for time spent dealing with the media. As a result, the award did not include costs that could have substantially increased the final amount.

Lively’s attorneys said that money had never been her objective. According to them, the actress wanted to draw attention to the mechanisms behind online retaliation campaigns and show others facing similar pressure that they could seek accountability. Baldoni’s lead attorney, by contrast, called the original request excessive and described the court’s decision as a significant victory for his clients.

The dispute became one of Hollywood’s most prominent legal battles over the boundaries of publicity and the influence of social media. The judge had previously dismissed Lively’s sexual-harassment claims on procedural grounds but allowed several claims against corporate defendants to proceed.

In awarding the costs, the court applied an amendment to California’s anti-SLAPP law adopted in 2023. These laws are intended to prevent lawsuits from being used to suppress public statements on matters of public concern. They allow defendants to seek the expedited dismissal of defamation claims and reimbursement of legal costs when a case involves public statements about sexual assault or harassment.

Similar anti-SLAPP laws are in effect in other U.S. states, but their scope, procedures and level of protection vary. There is no single nationwide standard: in some states, these laws are broader, while in others they are weaker or nonexistent. In Lively’s case, the law allowed her to recover legal-defense costs but did not provide for damages or punitive payments.

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Based on: Blake Lively, who sought $8 million for legal costs, is awarded $400,000

Seattle: Budget Cuts, New Seahawks Owner and Coaching Changes

This article examines how the city is cutting police hiring incentives amid a budget shortfall, the record-breaking sale of the Seattle Seahawks to new owner Vinod Khosla—with uncertainty surrounding plans for Lumen Field—and key points from an interview with team defensive coordinator Aden Durde about his journey from London to the NFL.

Seattle Suspends Police Hiring Incentive Payments as City Cuts Costs Amid Budget Crisis

The Seattle Police Department has announced a temporary suspension of its financial incentive program for new employees beginning September 1. The decision comes amid a worsening city budget outlook, forcing officials to reassess spending even in sensitive areas such as law-enforcement staffing.

Under the changes, new recruits and current officers who bring new people into the department will temporarily lose access to bonuses. Previously, the program offered payments of up to $30,000 for newly hired detectives and patrol officers, as well as rewards for current employees who successfully referred candidates. The department emphasized that the pause is temporary, but has not provided a clear timetable for resuming the payments.

The news is particularly troubling given the staffing shortage facing Seattle police. The city has been struggling with an exodus of officers for several years: over the past four years, the number of officers has fallen by nearly one-third, from roughly 1,400 to fewer than 950. Many leave for neighboring departments that offer higher salaries and better conditions. The incentive program was one of the few tools available to help offset those losses.

According to city council representatives, the budget forecast for 2025–26 is worse than expected, with the deficit potentially reaching $250 million. The main causes include declining sales-tax revenue, rising inflation and the costs of settling numerous lawsuits against the police. Under these conditions, City Hall is being forced to find savings across all departments, and the police department is no exception.

The decision has already drawn criticism from unions and some residents. They argue that without financial incentives, recruiting new personnel will virtually stop, leading to an increased burden on current officers and slower responses to calls. “We’re creating a problem for ourselves,” one department veteran told KOMO News. “Saving a few million now will turn into tens of millions in costs to rebuild the department later.”

The economic context also matters. The region has historically low unemployment, and competition for qualified security personnel is intense. Seattle police have repeatedly lost that competition to private security firms and suburban police departments, which can offer higher pay while spending less time on bureaucracy.

In this context, a “budget forecast” is an estimate of a city’s revenues and expenses several years into the future. If a deficit is expected, it means spending exceeds incoming revenue, requiring officials either to cut costs, raise taxes or draw on reserve funds. A “pause in incentives” is a classic example of budget sequestration, in which departments trim less critical items to make it through the end of the fiscal year.

The long-term consequences of the move could be mixed. On one hand, budget savings are genuinely necessary—the city cannot operate indefinitely on borrowed money. On the other, if the exodus of officers continues, crime could rise, followed by even more lawsuits and social costs. Analysts are already warning that this approach—patching holes without strategic planning—could create far more serious problems for Seattle than a temporary staffing shortage.

“An Iconic Brand”: New Seahawks Owner Vinod Khosla on Lumen Field and the Team’s Future

On Wednesday, NFL club owners unanimously approved the sale of the Seattle Seahawks to an investment group led by prominent venture capitalist Vinod Khosla. Valued at a record $9.612 billion, the deal is the most expensive in league history. Attention is now focused on how the new owner will run a team that has just won the Super Bowl. At his first news conference after the vote in Atlanta, Khosla, who was born in India, sought to reassure fans by saying he did not intend to make radical changes. However, his cautious comments about the team’s home stadium left several questions unanswered.

The main topic of discussion was the future of Lumen Field, which has been home to the Seahawks since 2002. An ESPN report in May raised the possibility that prospective buyers might have to consider replacing the stadium, causing concern among fans. Khosla, however, called the venue “iconic and a very important part of the Seahawks brand,” emphasizing that he wanted to preserve that connection. “Obviously, we’re not owners yet and we have a lot to learn, but we’re going to work with management, with other people and with the Seattle community to hopefully preserve this iconic brand,” he said, according to NFL.com. He did not give a definitive answer about the stadium’s long-term future, leaving room for speculation. The possibilities could include renovations or even a new arena, although the latter seems less likely given his remarks.

Khosla, who also owns a small stake in the San Francisco 49ers—which he must sell before the deal is completed—called the purchase “a gift from the Allen Trust.” “How often do you get a chance to buy a franchise that just won the Super Bowl? We are incredibly fortunate and humbled by this gift,” he said, adding that the task before him was simple: “to continue the winning streak and win another Super Bowl.” He stressed that his approach would be long-term rather than short-term, and that he intended to “learn and listen” both to the team’s management and to other league owners. The statement should reassure those who feared that the new owner, known for his aggressive technology investments, would interfere in sporting decisions.

Khosla also addressed the fans, calling them “the best in the country” and thanking them for their passion and loyalty. He specifically highlighted the phenomenon of the “12th Man”—the Seahawks’ famous fan base, known for its deafening support at the stadium. “It’s a difficult task not to be awed when you inherit a fan base like this,” he said. Interestingly, Khosla acknowledged that he has long been a Pittsburgh Steelers fan and continues to follow their games. Still, he said moving into the Seahawks camp was easy because of his longstanding ties to Seattle’s technology community. His son, Neal, attended 49ers home games from the age of five, so football has long been a family passion—something that will likely help win over skeptics.

Experts note that Khosla’s purchase is more than a change in ownership; it signals a changing era in the NFL, where technology billionaires are gaining increasing influence. The $9.6 billion price tag is more than double the previous record, set by the sale of the Denver Broncos for $4.65 billion in 2022, reflecting the explosive growth in the value of U.S. sports assets. For Khosla, whose fortune is estimated at tens of billions of dollars, the purchase is more likely a strategic investment than an emotional acquisition. His comments about a “long-term approach” could point to plans to develop the team as a global brand, including digital and media ventures. At the same time, his reluctance to discuss specific stadium plans may be because his intentions will not become clear until the deal is completed and an audit is conducted. For now, Seahawks fans can only hope that the new owner will keep his promises and preserve the unique atmosphere that has made Lumen Field one of the most intimidating venues for visiting teams in the league.

From London to the NFL: How Aden Durde Became the Seahawks’ Defensive Coordinator

Aden Durde’s story is not simply the rise of a talented coach. It is an extraordinary journey that began with an ordinary videotape in London and led to a Super Bowl victory. In an interview with Andscape senior writer Jason Reid for the Coaches Conversations series, the Seattle Seahawks’ defensive coordinator described how a chance encounter with footage of the 1985 Chicago Bears changed his life and shaped his future.

Durde admits that football was not initially anything special to him. Like many boys in London, he was interested in soccer. But when he got his hands on a tape featuring the legendary Bears defense led by Mike Singletary and William “The Refrigerator” Perry, something clicked. The atmosphere, power and strategy captured the future coach’s imagination. At the time, however, he could not have imagined that years later he would reach the highest level of American football.

His path to the NFL was neither direct nor easy. After ending his playing career in Europe, Durde stepped away from sports. But, as he explains, the community coaching scene—working with children and young people in London—brought him back to the game. That was where he realized he did not simply want to be involved in football; he wanted to teach, explain and lead others. His experience in NFL Europe, a tournament that once served as a talent pipeline for the major league, gave him not only a coaching foundation but also a unique understanding of how different cultures perceive the game.

This season, Durde oversees the entire Seahawks defense, one of the most aggressive and tactically flexible units in the league. He explains that his role is not limited to calling plays on third down. A coordinator’s job is to create a system in which every player understands his responsibilities and feels trusted by the coaching staff. It is important, he says, to be an intentional leader: not simply giving orders, but constantly explaining why—a particular scheme was chosen, why the team will take a risk in one situation and play more cautiously in another.

The discussion of opportunities for Black coaches was especially important. Andscape, which launched the project, notes that despite all the talk about diversity, there remains a huge gap between the number of Black players—more than 70% of the league—and the representation of Black coaches in key positions. As a British coach, Durde views the issue somewhat differently, but agrees that change must be systemic. He recalls his early years, when he had to prove that a European coach could understand football at the same level as Americans who had come through the college system.

“It’s not about quotas; it’s about opportunities,” Durde said. He stressed the importance of giving young coaches access to internships, opportunities to observe elite coaches and real experience managing games. In his interview with Andscape, he said he learned a great deal while working under Dan Quinn with the Dallas Cowboys. That was where he first saw how relationships between a coordinator and players are built.

Interestingly, Durde’s European perspective has also given him a certain advantage. He is not constrained by stereotypes about how a defense “should” look. Alongside Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald, who is also regarded as a young and bold coach, he is building a system that blends traditional principles with new ideas, including more simulated pressure and greater unpredictability.

The significance of coaches such as Durde extends far beyond the field. For thousands of young people in Europe, Africa and even the United States, he demonstrates that there is more than one path to the top of the NFL—and that it does not have to begin with a playing career. As Durde himself sums it up, a defensive coordinator must be not only a tactician, but also a mentor, motivator and, above all, someone who sees the people in his care as individuals rather than simply assets for improving statistics.

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Seattle to Hold Vigil Honoring Dolly Parton

On Friday, Seattle residents will gather for a community vigil honoring country singer and philanthropist Dolly Parton. The gathering will take place from 8 to 9 p.m. near the AIDS Memorial Pathway, next to the Capitol Hill light rail station. Organizers are inviting fans to sing, grieve and express their love for the artist together. The event will be held rain or shine.

The AIDS Memorial Pathway is a public memorial space dedicated to people affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. It features artworks, memorial elements and educational materials about the community’s history and activism. The Capitol Hill neighborhood is considered Seattle’s historic center of LGBTQ+ life, so the location underscores the vigil’s connection to remembering those who died and fighting for LGBTQ+ rights and support.

Parton, who was 80, died Tuesday after being diagnosed with cancer, her publicist said. The Seattle vigil was initiated by Francesca Hayes, who had been a fan of the singer since childhood, thanks to her parents and grandmother. During her school years, Hayes even wrote letters to Parton, telling her that she found her beautiful and talented and loved her work.

After learning of the artist’s death, Hayes wanted to bring fans together and applied to hold the event in partnership with the Cal Anderson Park Alliance. She described Parton as someone who embodied love and acceptance and highlighted her support for the LGBTQ+ community. The singer spoke out against attacks on minorities and criticized North Carolina’s discriminatory law governing transgender people’s access to restrooms.

In addition to her music and public advocacy, Parton became known for her philanthropy. In 2023, her Imagination Library program began operating in Washington state. It sends registered children free, age-appropriate books—usually one per month from birth through age 5. United Way of the Pacific Northwest coordinates the program and recruits local partners, while participating libraries, nonprofits and other community organizations register children. Books are mailed to families, though availability depends on the county or territory and expands as local funding becomes available.

As a tribute to the singer, flags throughout the state will be flown at half-staff through Sept. 1. According to Hayes, people of different ages, cultures and identities are enthusiastically supporting the event: “She was for everyone—and completely openly so.”

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Based on: Dolly Parton to be celebrated at Seattle community vigil

Wildfire Smoke Threatens Tourist Season at Lake Chelan

Empty hotel rooms, nearly deserted tennis courts and vacant parking lots show how wildfires have battered businesses around Lake Chelan, one of Washington state’s main tourist destinations. Jaclyn Yeh, co-owner of Harmony Meadows Tennis Resort in Manson, says the company has not made a dime since the fires began and that all local businesses are struggling.

The region has been shrouded in smoke from the roughly 148,000-acre Little Giant Fire. As of Tuesday, the fire was only 21% contained and had destroyed at least 35 structures. The nearby Stormy Mountain Fire added further danger and smoke. Thirteen major fires were burning across the state, and nearly 1,400 fires had been reported since the beginning of the year.

Even after fires are contained or extinguished, smoke can linger in the air when winds are light and a temperature inversion is present. It reduces visibility, leaves a smoky odor and raises concentrations of fine particles, making outdoor recreation unpleasant and potentially hazardous to health. Evacuation orders were in effect west of Lake Chelan, and many tourists canceled their trips.

Chelan Mayor Erin McCardle says the effects of a fire continue even after it is extinguished: Smoke means canceled trips, fewer visitors and serious losses for businesses and workers who depend on tourism.

For local companies, losing summer revenue is particularly dangerous. Eastern Washington receives most of its tourists during the warmer months, and during the short season businesses earn a significant share of their annual income — money needed to cover expenses and retain employees through the winter. The area is still recovering from the Pioneer Fire, which occurred two years ago and required roughly $100 million to suppress.

Lake Chelan Boat Company co-owner Brun Garfoot warns that a weak peak season makes the off-season much more difficult. His company transports tourists, groceries, mail, fuel, medicine and other necessities year-round to remote Stehekin, located in the hard-to-reach northwestern part of the lake and largely disconnected from the road network. But the boats were carrying only about 25% of the usual number of passengers headed there.

Some activity continued on the lake: Boats moved across the water, while visitors sunbathed and floated on inflatable tubes. But on a hot August day, there were noticeably fewer people than expected, and smoke obscured the mountain scenery. Garfoot, who grew up in Stehekin and became an owner of the company in 2019, is hoping for better weather and less smoke in September.

The business is also dealing with other problems, including the large amount of timber left in the lake after destructive floods in December. The company, founded in 1889, has already weathered the COVID-19 pandemic and the Pioneer Fire, but Garfoot calls this season exceptionally difficult.

Other businesses were nearly empty. At Succession Wines, outdoor tables sat vacant even as grapes ripened on the vines. At Harmony Meadows, which typically hosts weddings, tennis camps, classes and private lessons, guests canceled all their bookings and no one signed up for courses. The owners had to close the Love-All Café, lay off employees and end one worker’s internship early.

Jeremy and Jaclyn Yeh bought the former Banjo Creek Farms in 2015 after working in the technology industry in the Seattle area. They created a resort with tennis courts and 13 hotel rooms that operates from May through September, but they are now seeking a buyer and want to spend more time in California. The failed season has made the sale more difficult: Potential owners would find it hard to take on a family business that is not generating revenue.

The Zanika Lache Camp on Lake Wenatchee was also affected, with most of its summer program canceled because of hazardous air quality. In late July, the air quality index reached about 900, compared with a safe range of 0 to 50. Readings above 300 are already considered hazardous for everyone, while a reading of around 900 indicates extremely polluted air capable of causing eye and respiratory irritation, asthma attacks, reduced lung function and cardiovascular complications. In such conditions, campers and outdoor workers need to limit time outside and follow instructions from authorities.

One camp session ended a day early, another was canceled after two days, and two more had to be canceled entirely. This cost the nonprofit organization about $199,000 in revenue. Its leaders are raising money for salaries and expenses, hoping to keep the camp operating through next summer. But across the region, business owners and nonprofit leaders are unsure whether they will be able to make it through the winter after so many cancellations.

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Based on: Some Lake Chelan businesses ‘haven’t made a dime since the fires’

Washington to Honor Dolly Parton by Lowering Flags

Flags across Washington state will be flown at half-staff through Sept. 1 in memory of Dolly Parton, the country music legend and renowned philanthropist. Gov. Bob Ferguson ordered the flags lowered after the announcement of the 80-year-old singer’s death in Nashville. According to her spokesperson, Parton died after battling cancer. President Donald Trump issued a similar order: Flags at the White House and across the country will also be flown at half-staff in honor of the artist.

Parton was remembered not only for her striking image, wit and decades-long music career, but also for her extensive philanthropic work. Her Imagination Library program sends free books each month to children from birth through age 5. In 2023, the singer introduced the program in Washington at a concert at the Pantages Theater in Tacoma, where she performed with a rhinestone-covered black guitar. The Library of Congress called her a “titan of childhood literacy,” while Lt. Gov. Denny Heck proclaimed Aug. 15 “Imagination Library Day in Washington.”

Recently, the program announced that it would resume operations statewide thanks to $3 million in grants from the Roots & Wings Foundation over two years, along with additional funding from the John and Tami Maric Family Foundation. Services had previously been suspended in several regions because of a lack of funds: The state budget did not cover the necessary half of the cost of the books, and local funding had declined. The new grants will stabilize the system and restore free monthly books for roughly 40,000 children, increasing the program’s total enrollment in the state to more than 100,000.

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Based on: Dolly Parton honored in WA with flags flying half-staff

Camping May Be Banned in the Ancient Lakes Area

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is considering banning camping in the Ancient Lakes area, also known as Babcock Bench, in the Columbia River Basin. The restriction could take effect Jan. 1 of next year. The agency cites the area’s popularity among tourists, cyclists and hikers, as well as the environmental consequences of visitors’ irresponsible behavior.

Sanitation is a particular concern: popular camping spots are about 1.5 miles from the trailhead and toilets. In addition, visitors often build campfires despite the countywide burn ban and temporary WDFW fire restrictions, using sagebrush as fuel. The public comment period has been extended through Oct. 30; comments can be submitted through the agency’s portal or emailed to BabcockBenchCampingClosure@PublicInput.com.

The Washington Trails Association (WTA) asked for more time for people to submit feedback and proposed alternatives to a complete camping ban: prohibit campfires year-round, install basic toilets in remote areas, allow tents only at designated campsites, and bring in educators during the busiest periods, such as spring. The organization emphasizes that Ancient Lakes is an accessible route for beginner backpackers, offering unique desert-steppe landscapes, and that developing a personal connection with the area may motivate people to protect it more effectively.

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Based on: Camping at Central WA’s Ancient Lakes area could be banned

Appeals court blocks Trump effort to cut King County grants

The U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals on Tuesday upheld a ban on the Donald Trump administration’s imposition of new conditions on federal grants. The rules could have cost King County hundreds of millions of dollars for homelessness programs and transportation infrastructure unless local officials abandoned diversity initiatives and agreed to cooperate with federal immigration authorities, ICE.

King County oversees such programs not only in Seattle but also in neighboring cities and unincorporated areas. Unlike the city government, whose authority is limited to Seattle’s boundaries, the county manages regional social services, homelessness programs and transportation projects connecting different parts of the metropolitan area.

King County filed the lawsuit against the administration with the support of more than 70 local governments. They argued that the president cannot unilaterally change the conditions of grants already approved by Congress. The case concerned executive orders requiring the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Transportation to attach political requirements to their funding.

Under those requirements, local agencies would have had to abandon equality, diversity and inclusion programs, refrain from supporting what the administration called “gender ideology” and assist ICE. Otherwise, they risked losing federal funds. A lower court had previously blocked the rules, and King County said the ruling had preserved or would provide approximately $364 million.

The appellate panel split 2–1 on the issue, but the majority left the injunction in place. Judge Margaret McKeown said the government had not identified specific legal authority for imposing the new conditions and was effectively relying only on the claim that “the president ordered it.” She also noted that a homeless-services provider could have lost funding merely for using a transgender person’s chosen name and helping that person obtain mental-health counseling.

The case also involves Pierce and Snohomish counties, as well as the Port of Seattle. Their participation reflects the regional scope of the dispute: The port operates the airport, maritime terminals and related freight and tourism activity, while the neighboring counties are closely connected to Seattle through daily commuting, trade and logistics. Together, they form part of the Puget Sound region’s integrated transportation and economic system.

Local leaders welcomed the ruling but emphasized that the dispute is not over: The case will continue in district court, and the administration could appeal to the Supreme Court. King County Executive Girmay Zahilay called the decision confirmation that the president cannot turn federal funding into a political weapon.

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Based on: Court blocks Trump push to strip grant funds from King County

Seattle Teachers on the Brink of a Strike: Education’s Knot of Problems

Tensions are rising in Seattle: the teachers’ union is preparing to vote on authorizing a strike, which could disrupt the start of the school year for 50,000 students. Negotiations have reached an impasse over salaries, class sizes and staffing for special programs, against the backdrop of a $100 million budget shortfall. However, both sides are prepared to continue talks until the last possible moment, and a strike remains a last resort.

Seattle Teachers Prepare to Strike: What It Means for 50,000 Students

Tensions are rising in Seattle: the teachers’ and school employees’ union, which represents about 6,000 workers, says a vote to authorize a strike is highly likely. If that happens, the start of the school year for nearly 50,000 students, scheduled for Sept. 2, could be disrupted. Negotiations between the Seattle Education Association and the school district administration have stalled over key issues — compensation, class sizes and staffing for special-needs programs. At the same time, both sides emphasize that they are prepared to continue talking literally until the last moment, and that a strike remains a last resort rather than an inevitability.

The situation is unfolding amid serious financial pressure: The district must close a $100 million budget gap. That has become the central sticking point. Acknowledging the difficulties, the union is proposing phased raises of 1% to 3% for certified educators and 3% to 5% for support staff, in addition to the annual cost-of-living adjustment set by the state. For comparison, the average Seattle teacher currently earns about $96,000, while technical workers earn roughly $68,000. Union representatives insist that their demands take the district’s financial realities into account, but the administration apparently considers such spending unaffordable under current conditions.

Another particularly sensitive issue is class size and teachers’ workloads. The union uses the term “pressurization” to describe the amount of work educators must perform beyond direct teaching — preparing materials, grading assignments and communicating with parents. The more students there are in a classroom, the greater that burden becomes, which the union says reduces educational quality and contributes to staff burnout. Directly related is the staffing problem in special education: Nurses, psychologists and aides working with children with special needs cannot physically serve everyone who requires support. Katie McDermott, a school nurse and member of the negotiating team, described her colleagues’ mood: “We’re pretty fired up. We are definitely ready to fight for an agreement that will help our students succeed. But I’ll say this: We want to get back to our classrooms and schools, so we’re ready to see this through.”

It is telling that in recent weeks the sides have reached agreement on only seven of more than 50 items. The agreements include school safety issues, including protocols to protect immigrant students; providing sign-language interpreters; employees’ right to return after being transferred to another building; and rules governing work-time tracking and the use of artificial intelligence. However, the union’s three main demands remain unresolved, and they could become the trigger for a strike. There is also an important nuance: Wednesday evening’s vote at the Seattle Convention Center would only authorize the possibility of a strike. If the sides reach an agreement by Aug. 31, when the current contract expires, no strike will take place. Union representative Julie Popper confirmed that negotiators are prepared to work “without weekends and without stopping” until the deadline.

The historical context adds to the tension: The last time Seattle teachers went on strike was in September 2022, delaying the start of classes by five days. That experience showed that a strike is painful for both parents and educators, but the union is prepared to take that step if it sees no movement on fundamental issues. Notably, negotiations this time are taking place with a new superintendent, Ben Shuldiner, who took over the district only in February. His approach to dialogue with the union has yet to be assessed, and the current crisis will be his first major test. Meanwhile, as teachers vote Wednesday evening, the school board will hold its own meeting, where it is expected to approve the proposed budget for the next school year. The timing is symbolic: Seattle’s financial and labor issues in education have become tightly intertwined, and how they are untangled in the coming days will determine whether we see children at their desks on the first day of fall or begin the year with picket lines outside schools. More about the negotiations and their background is covered in The Seattle Times article. In any case, a decision will be made within hours, determining whether Sept. 2 becomes the first day of school or the start of a labor dispute.

The Billings Tragedy: How a Family Dinner Turned Into Murder and Fire

In Billings, Montana, one of the most horrific family tragedies in recent years unfolded when 44-year-old Alan Smith shot and killed eight relatives, including four children, and then set the house on fire, turning an ordinary Sunday dinner into the scene of a mass killing. The crime has already been identified as the 22nd mass killing in the United States this year, once again raising painful questions about how family conflicts and ignored “red flags” can lead to catastrophic consequences.

According to the investigation reported by KIRO 7 News Seattle, Smith had been forced to move out of his parents’ home shortly before the tragedy. Dana and Barbara Smith were among the first victims. Relatives said the man had lived with them in Montana for several years but led an extremely isolated life, rarely leaving his room and spending all his time at the computer. Brad Ireland, the former husband of one of the women killed, described Smith as a “hermit” and said that many family members had noticed troubling signs in his behavior, but no one took decisive action. “There were a lot of red flags, and a lot of people spoke up, but nobody listened,” Ireland said bitterly.

The victims included members of four generations of one blended family — from a 90-year-old great-grandmother who used a wheelchair to a 7-year-old girl. Among those killed were Ireland’s former wife, Megan Gekir; their children, 13-year-old Owen and 7-year-old Chloe; and Megan’s two stepchildren from her second marriage. According to Jennifer Mercer, a neighbor and family friend who organized a fundraiser for the funerals, the real hero of the tragedy was 12-year-old Charlotte Gekir. She managed to call 911 and tried to warn her relatives about the danger before she was killed along with the others. “Charlotte was a hero. She called 911 and tried to save her family,” Mercer said, adding that the family was very close and that the parents had maintained warm relationships after their divorces.

Police arrived after the house was already fully engulfed in flames and heard gunshots coming from the backyard. Smith apparently shot his relatives first, then set the house on fire and attempted to flee. He was detained by law enforcement and later died from a gunshot wound that investigators believe he inflicted on himself. The investigation is complicated by the fact that the fire destroyed the building completely, leaving experts with extremely limited evidence. Firefighters battled the blaze until 1 a.m., and efforts were further hampered because the neighborhood where the house stood had no fire hydrants.

The family had moved to Montana from Seattle several years ago after Ireland and Megan Gekir divorced. The woman soon remarried, and her parents followed her, purchasing a nearby home. Alan Smith lived with them for a long time, but two weeks ago they asked him to move out — an event relatives believe may have triggered the tragedy. Notably, Smith had no criminal record: He had never been charged in either Montana or Washington and had not been known to display physical violence, although family members noted his tendency toward verbal aggression.

According to the mass-killing database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University, this was the 22nd such case in the United States since the beginning of the year. Fifteen of them were connected to family or domestic conflicts — higher than the historical average of about 50%. James Alan Fox, a Northeastern University criminologist who oversees the database, has noted a troubling increase in domestic mass killings. The last incident of comparable scale occurred in April, when a Louisiana resident shot eight children, including seven of his own, and wounded his wife and another woman.

The tragedy in Billings is another grim reminder that mass killings in the United States occur not only in schools, shopping centers or at concerts, but also around the dinner table among the people closest to us. The case of Alan Smith once again demonstrates how an adult’s social isolation, years of dependence on his parents, inability to find work and mounting family tensions can end in an explosion of unimaginable destructive force. Relatives acknowledge that they noticed strange behavior in Smith, but no one could have imagined that someone who had never displayed physical violence could do something like this. Now, shocked residents of Billings are trying to comprehend the scale of the loss. In this small community, the family was known for its closeness and love; now all that remains is a burned-out ruin and the memory of those who tried to fight until the end, like 12-year-old Charlotte, whose call to emergency services became a symbol of desperate hope amid the merciless massacre.

The Battle for the Harvest: How Seattle Startups Turn Weeds Into Digital Targets

While the world discusses artificial intelligence in the context of chatbots and video generation, two Seattle companies are showing that real breakthroughs happen where technology meets the soil. The Pacific Northwest has become the setting for an unusual contest: TerraClear and Carbon Robotics are offering farmers radically different ways to solve the age-old problem of weeds. One startup is betting on ultra-precise maps for existing sprayers; the other is developing autonomous robots with lasers capable of destroying unwanted plants without a single drop of chemicals. Both companies believe the future of agriculture lies in data, not brute force.

TerraClear, based in Issaquah, has introduced Weed Maps, a system that uses 1.5-millimeter-resolution imagery to detect weeds as small as a pencil eraser. Instead of spot-checking fields, as traditional methods do, the company captures images of every acre and creates a georeferenced map that can be uploaded to farmers’ existing sprayers equipped with precise nozzle control. As CEO Devin Lammers explains, the approach “completely bypasses the capital-expenditure problem”: Farmers do not need to purchase expensive new equipment; they only need software that turns existing machinery into a precision-treatment tool. The farmer receives not a machine but a map — a ready-to-use file containing the coordinates of every weed — and the sprayer activates its nozzles only where a problem actually exists.

Carbon Robotics, meanwhile, has taken a more radical approach. Its LaserWeeder is an autonomous machine equipped with computer vision and powerful lasers that physically destroys weeds without herbicides. The company recently introduced its Plant Profiles feature and its foundational Large Plant Model, trained on 150 million labeled plants. This enables the system not only to locate weeds but also to distinguish among crops based on growth stage, soil type and weather conditions. As CEO Paul Mikesell emphasizes, the goal is for robots to identify any plant in any field instantly and adapt their behavior in real time, giving farmers the greatest possible value from the machines.

Interestingly, both companies see each other less as competitors than as representatives of different niches. Lammers calls Carbon Robotics’ technology “impressive” and says it is well suited to specialty crops and organic farming. But for large corn and soybean producers, where margins per acre are lower and fields are enormous, the economics are different. “Modern sprayers already have individual nozzle control and RTK positioning — the actuators are already sitting in the barn,” Lammers says. In his estimation, precision mapping can reduce pesticide and herbicide use by 80% without sacrificing effectiveness. This is especially relevant amid political debates: President Trump previously pledged to allocate $1 billion to modernize agriculture, while Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the current health secretary, praised Carbon Robotics’ laser machines as a solution to the chemical problem on Joe Rogan’s podcast.

Both companies emerged from the Pacific Northwest’s rich ag-tech ecosystem. TerraClear founder Brent Frei grew up on a family farm in Idaho, later studied at Dartmouth and helped create Onyx Software and Smartsheet. Founded in 2017, his startup began by tackling an unglamorous problem: removing rocks from fields. Today, TerraClear has about 50 employees and is approaching 1,000 customers. Its TerraScout robot collects more than 4 billion image samples per acre and can map over 1,000 acres a day. The data also accumulates season after season, making the models more accurate. Carbon Robotics, founded in 2018, has raised $177 million and employs 260 people; its machines are already operating on farms around the world.

But the most interesting aspect is not the weed-control methods themselves, but what lies behind them: Every camera moving across a field collects invaluable information about plants, soil, crop health and growing conditions. This data could benefit not only farmers but also seed producers, agricultural researchers and farm-equipment developers. In effect, the field becomes a giant dataset for training AI, and that data — rather than the robots or lasers — may become both startups’ most important long-term asset. As Lammers notes, the main source of growth is a cycle: More data improve the models, better models create more accurate maps, those maps attract more acreage, and that acreage generates even more data. In this new reality, victory will not go to whoever has the more powerful laser, but to whoever’s algorithm learns fastest from every new field.

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World Cup helps Seattle set tourism record

More than 3.7 million unique visitors came to downtown Seattle in July—5% more than a year earlier and roughly 12% above the July 2019 figure, before the COVID-19 pandemic. The Downtown Seattle Association’s data are based on mobile-phone geolocation and do not include international tourists, so the actual number of visitors was likely even higher.

The main driver of growth was the FIFA World Cup, which took place in the city over several weeks. The crowds were unevenly distributed, with the largest numbers gathering downtown and near Lumen Field and T-Mobile Park, where matches and related events were held. Tourists also visited the waterfront, Pike Place Market and other attractions, but the stadiums’ proximity and convenient transit connections made the surrounding neighborhoods the main hubs of activity.

Downtown Seattle Association President Jon Scholes called July a record-breaking month, noting that the surge began in June and continued after the matches ended. July also set a monthly record for Sunday ridership on the Link light rail system. Link connects Seattle–Tacoma International Airport, downtown, the neighborhoods around the stadiums and other parts of the region. The increase in Sunday trips is particularly significant: tourists actively travel between matches, hotels, festivals and attractions on that day, while roads are more congested and parking is more expensive. Link can carry large passenger volumes without relying on automobile traffic.

Seattle made extensive use of free and low-cost attractions, including the renovated waterfront, Olympic Sculpture Park, Centennial Park and Pike Place Market. Another contributing factor was the creation of areas closed to cars around the market and in other downtown neighborhoods. Business representatives said these spaces made the city more convenient and appealing to visitors.

Local residents also came downtown more often: the number of visitors from areas within a 10-mile radius exceeded 351,000—about 25,000 more than the previous record, set in August 2019. Much of this data covers the period before the July 26 shooting at the Bite of Seattle festival, which renewed discussions about safety at large urban events.

Going forward, the city will likely increase screening and access control, deploy more police officers and security staff, improve video surveillance and strengthen communication among emergency services. Other possible measures include clearer separation of entrances and exits, temporary street closures, designated passenger drop-off zones and stricter traffic management. Specific decisions will depend on the size of the event and the threat assessment.

Small businesses also felt the boost. Post Alley Kids said July was the best month in the store’s history, although there were fewer customers on the actual match days. At Totem Smokehouse, dried salmon and “salmon candy” were especially popular, with one product even gaining traction on TikTok. A jewelry vendor at Pike Place Market said national television networks’ coverage of Seattle during the World Cup helped draw attention to the city.

In the coming weeks, the city expects to maintain the momentum thanks to the Bumbershoot music festival, the PAX West gaming convention, games by the Seattle Mariners baseball team and Seattle Reign soccer club, the University of Washington’s Apple Cup and the arrival of cruise ships. Business leaders hope to hold more free public screenings, festivals and car-free days alongside major ticketed events. Experienced entrepreneurs caution, however, that quieter months follow the festive season: January through March are typically difficult, so it is important to set aside summer earnings.

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Based on: Seattle, boosted by World Cup, smashes record for summer visitors

How a Seven-Year-Old Survived Four Days in the Mount Hood Wilderness

This August marks the 100th anniversary of one of the most unusual rescues on Mount Hood, Oregon’s highest peak. In 1926, seven-year-old Jack Strong became lost in the mountains and spent four days there before a search party found him alive.

Jack’s story was one of the first major rescues carried out by the Crag Rats, a volunteer organization of experienced climbers and local residents. Its members later helped dozens of people on Mount Hood and in other areas. Unlike U.S. Forest Service rangers, who were responsible for managing federal lands, the Crag Rats specialized in volunteer search-and-rescue operations. The Oregon Journal described the incident in detail, calling it a story capable of inspiring preachers, teachers, scientists and lovers of dramatic tales.

It all began Thursday morning, when Jack set out with his two older brothers, Ray and Winston, from the family camp near Paradise Park toward Lost Creek. The boy decided to fish separately. When his brothers called him back, he headed in the wrong direction and soon realized he was lost.

Ray and Winston followed Lost Creek to the Sandy River but did not find their brother: Jack had already crossed the creek and was moving uphill along the opposite bank. By evening, the brothers had contacted Forest Service rangers. The search began the next morning, while Jack’s mother went looking for a telephone so she could tell his father what had happened.

The terrain around Mount Hood was a complex system of valleys, forests and ridgelines. The Sandy River, Lost Creek and Muddy Fork, along with the Yokum Ridge, divided the area into difficult-to-reach sections, limited visibility and created countless possible routes. Without modern maps, GPS or reliable communications, rescuers had particular difficulty determining where the child had gone.

The search operation quickly expanded across the region. It was joined by sawmill and logging-company employees, members of the Mazamas and the Trails Club of Oregon, local residents and servicemen from the barracks in Vancouver, Washington. Women living near the ranger station prepared food for the searchers.

The Mazamas and the Trails Club of Oregon brought together mountaineers, organized climbs and taught safe travel in the mountains. Their members knew the local terrain well, so they often volunteered in search operations. The clubs also helped foster a culture of preparation, mutual assistance and responsibility that later became the foundation of professional rescue services in the Northwest.

Interest in the disappearance was so intense that federal authorities temporarily opened the Bull Run watershed to searchers, an area normally closed to the public. The protected district supplies Portland with drinking water, so access is restricted to prevent contamination, protect water infrastructure and preserve water quality. One participant joked that opening the protected area might normally have required an act of Congress, but a seven-year-old boy had managed to open it all by himself.

Jack himself, unaware of the scale of the search, remained calm. The first night, he ate raw fish he had caught in the creek, along with berries. He then threw away his fishing pole, deciding it was too heavy, and slept directly on the grass. The boy later said that he felt quite comfortable and was not especially afraid.

Jack decided to climb the slopes of Mount Hood and return to Paradise Park. He spent three nights near Muddy Fork, gradually making his way to Yokum Ridge at an elevation of about 6,000 feet. He was already roughly 30 miles from where he had gone fishing.

On the fourth day, Jack realized he would not be able to cross Reid Glacier and was preparing to descend. That was when Crag Rats members P.J. Bucklin, Jesse Pally and L.M. Baldwin spotted him. They suspected the boy might try to cross the glacier and climbed toward him from the other side.

When rescuers told Jack that hundreds of people were looking for him, he asked in surprise, “Me? Why are they doing that?” The boy even insisted that he could make his own way down the mountain. Meanwhile, at the camp, searchers gave the agreed-upon signal: two shots, followed by two more a minute later. For Jack’s mother, the pause was agonizing as everyone waited for confirmation that the child was alive.

Finally, a messenger ran into camp shouting, “They found him!” When people asked whether Jack was alive, he shouted back, “Oranges! No, orange juice!” This meant that the boy was conscious and able to speak. Soon Jack’s father, who was near the Sandy River, rushed to meet his son. Rescuers found that the boy’s face and hands were windburned, but otherwise he was healthy. When Jack entered the camp, he was greeted by a huge crowd, and his parents embraced him.

Today, searches on Mount Hood are coordinated by sheriffs from several counties, with the participation of volunteer groups, the Forest Service, medical personnel, aviation teams and other government agencies. Compared with 1926, rescuers now have mobile and satellite communications, GPS, digital maps, emergency beacons, drones, helicopters and databases containing weather and route information. Operations are conducted through unified incident command centers, allowing teams to be deployed and information shared more quickly. However, fog, snow, avalanches, difficult terrain and weak communications coverage can still seriously complicate rescue efforts.

And so Jack’s four-day disappearance ended with a joyful return and became part of the lore of mountain rescues in Oregon.

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Based on: A century ago, one of the most dramatic rescues on Mount Hood unfolded

Pullman resident celebrates 109th birthday while staying active and witty

Merrill Moore of Pullman, Washington, celebrated his 109th birthday surrounded by family. Based on information gathered by relatives from various databases, he is likely the oldest man in the state and ranks 17th among the oldest men in the United States. During his lifetime, Moore has witnessed the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, World War II and many major events that followed.

His strong work ethic took shape in childhood. Moore was the eldest of five brothers and grew up on a farm in Nebraska and later on the family poultry farm in Southern California. The family was poor, and the children often had to go barefoot. According to his daughter, Linda Kinslow, older boys of that era had to grow up quickly, and that sense of responsibility helped Moore succeed.

During the Great Depression, Moore began assembling aircraft at Lockheed, where he was valued as an employee and was once recognized with a letter of appreciation from the company’s president. During World War II, he served in Germany with the Army, working for the Red Cross, and witnessed the Nuremberg trials.

After returning home, Moore held many different jobs: He managed an animal-feed store, made furniture, worked at a sawmill and spent 17 years at a machine shop that supplied parts for aircraft. The small business eventually closed amid the relocation of production, increased competition and declining orders for aircraft components. Moore had to look for a new job and became a painter at Washington State University.

The university is Pullman’s largest employer and also serves as the city’s economic, educational and cultural center. Working there gave Moore stable employment in his hometown, allowing him to stay near his family rather than move elsewhere.

His son, Russell Moore, says his father was exceptionally responsible, creative and hardworking, sometimes working 80 to 90 hours a week. His wife, Barbara, died in 1993. Moore was also a skilled craftsman: He made wooden furniture himself and described the boys’ bedroom and the treehouse he built for his sons as his favorite projects.

Even in advanced age, Moore remains physically active and interested in life. He lives in a separate apartment in his daughter’s home, cheers for the university team and does knee-bending exercises. Pullman is a college town where sports are closely tied to local identity and community life, and Washington State University’s college football team is known as the Cougars. That is the team Moore supports.

On a treadmill, he estimates that he has walked about 10,000 miles. This year, however, was the first time he was no longer able to mow his daughter’s lawn by himself.

Relatives believe Moore’s kindness and willingness to help others may have contributed to his longevity. He drove a stranger home with her groceries after learning that she had no way to get there, cleared snow from neighbors’ sidewalks in winter and once volunteered to paint the inside of a church. At the celebration, a stack of greeting cards from numerous relatives sat beside the family, and his daughter summed him up simply: “We love him. He really is special.”

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Based on: The oldest man in Washington celebrates his 109th birthday

“Ted Lasso” Highlights the Real Problems in Women’s Sports

The fourth season of Apple TV’s Ted Lasso, which premiered on August 5, continues to address prejudice, cruelty and the need to recognize the human dignity of others above all else. This time, the storyline directly confronts inequality in women’s sports.

The protagonist becomes the coach of the Lady Greyhounds, a fictional women’s team affiliated with Richmond. The team begins the season with limited resources: The players must share a cramped locker room while proving both their abilities on the field and the team’s right to exist. Some men associated with the club openly ask why money should be spent on it at all.

This issue is especially important in Seattle, one of the leading centers of women’s sports in the United States. Last year, The Athletic ranked the city third among the places most passionate about women’s sports. Its reputation has been shaped by professional teams Seattle Reign FC and Seattle Storm, as well as numerous school, university and amateur programs. Active fans also play an important role, including communities that support women’s sports and LGBTQ+ athletes, along with initiatives promoting equal access for girls and women to training, leadership opportunities and athletic facilities.

Women’s soccer in the city is represented by the professional club Seattle Reign FC, known as OL Reign until 2024. The team has been one of the leading clubs in the National Women’s Soccer League, providing athletes with a professional platform and supporting the development of young players. The broader ecosystem also includes youth academies, university teams and amateur clubs. Prominent advocates for equality connected to the city include soccer star Megan Rapinoe and former Storm player Nneka Ogwumike, who helped secure a historic pay agreement in women’s basketball.

Interest in women’s sports is growing, but inequality persists. In 2024, women held just 22% of head-coaching positions in FIFA women’s soccer leagues. In the National Women’s Soccer League, only four of the 16 teams, including Seattle’s, are led by women.

To help change the situation, the University of Washington’s Center for Leadership in Athletics launched the Game Changers initiative in 2017. It supports women coaches and nonbinary professionals through mentorship, coaching and leadership seminars, assistance with job searches and professional networking. Participants receive practical skills, access to mentors and information about openings in university, school and professional sports. According to center co-director Julie McCleery, the share of women coaches has increased only slightly over the past 20 years.

McCleery stresses that the issue extends beyond sports. Millions of children learn about leadership through their athletic experiences. If most of the coaches they see are men, they may develop the impression that leadership is primarily a male domain. Women also face double standards: They are criticized for being overly assertive and criticized for being emotional as well.

The problem also exists in sports science. Research on women’s physiology and health accounts for only about 6% of studies on athletic performance, increasing the risk of injury. For example, women suffer anterior cruciate ligament tears approximately eight times more often than men. Washington sports organizations are already using neuromuscular warm-up programs, strength exercises, safe-landing instruction and training-load monitoring. They also employ individualized recovery plans, sports-medicine supervision and gradual returns to competition.

Improving conditions for female athletes also means providing access to doctors and physical therapists, equal funding, properly fitting equipment and consideration of women’s physiology, including the menstrual cycle and postpartum recovery. Larger-scale research into playing surfaces, training regimens and physiology could help reduce injury risks even further.

The author notes that instead of focusing on these pressing issues, public debates about women’s sports are almost entirely centered on the participation of transgender girls. In Washington state, fewer than 10 such athletes are among approximately 200,000 middle- and high-school students. In McCleery’s view, if society truly wants to discuss safety, fairness and access, it should also address injuries, the lack of research, sexual harassment, coach background checks and the quality of athletic facilities—not use one issue as a distraction.

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Based on: What new ‘Ted Lasso’ season gets right about women’s sports

Raleigh’s Triumph and Emerson’s Injury: Seattle News

The Seattle Mariners are going through an eventful stretch: Cal Raleigh’s star performance, featuring three home runs against Philadelphia, and the loss of top prospect Colt Emerson to a wrist injury that has ended his rookie season.

Cal Raleigh’s Triumph: How Seattle Routed Philadelphia and Made Its Mark

Monday night at T-Mobile Park was truly historic for Seattle Mariners fans. Their favorite, catcher Cal Raleigh, put on a spectacular show by hitting three home runs in a single game—the first time anyone in franchise history had done so at the team’s home stadium. This was more than just a hot streak; it was a powerful statement from a player who reached the heights of the sport just a year ago by hitting 60 home runs in a season. Exactly 11 months ago, on September 24, he reached that milestone, and now he seemed determined to remind everyone what he can do when he gets into a rhythm. The game ended 9–2 in favor of the home team, forcing Philadelphia, which had entered the game on an impressive nine-game winning streak, to surrender.

From the very beginning, it was clear that the evening would be special. Raleigh began his show in the first inning by sending a ball into the stands, then continued in the fifth and seventh. Notably, he hit two of the three home runs against Zack Wheeler, a three-time All-Star. Wheeler endured one of the worst outings of his career: four home runs and eight runs allowed were career-worst marks. Raleigh’s third and final home run was especially dramatic—the ball sailed over the head of Bryce Harper, who desperately tried to leap over the wall but could only watch the ball disappear. The performance made Raleigh the first Mariners player to hit three home runs at T-Mobile Park since it opened. Overall, the last player in franchise history to do so at home was Edgar Martinez, back in 1999 at the old Kingdome.

Raleigh was not the only player to shine that night. Julio Rodríguez, the team’s center fielder, also stood out by hitting his 20th home run of the season. The blast was symbolic: it extended his streak to five consecutive years with at least 20 home runs, and he now needs only four stolen bases to reach 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases for the fifth straight time. Young Cole Young, who started the game, also joined in with a solo home run to make the score even more lopsided. On the mound, Logan Gilbert put together a solid performance, pitching five innings, allowing only two runs, and earning his 11th win of the season. His work helped preserve the lead and guide the team to a convincing victory.

The win has major implications in the standings. Seattle improved to 63–69, cutting its deficit in the American League West to three games. The Texas Rangers took over the division lead that same evening, but the Mariners remain in the playoff race. They are also three games behind the Cleveland Guardians in the battle for the final wild-card spot. With less than a month remaining in the regular season, every game is becoming decisive, and such a convincing win over one of the league’s strongest opponents gives fans renewed hope. It may be exactly the boost the team needs to make a late push at the most important point of the season. Experts have already begun discussing the possibility that Seattle could become the dark horse of the fall if Raleigh continues to perform at this level and Rodríguez maintains his consistency.

It is worth explaining what a home run is: it is a hit that allows the batter to touch all the bases and score a run for his team. If other players are on base, they score as well, which is why three-run home runs, such as Rodríguez’s, are especially valuable. As for Zack Wheeler, he is considered one of the National League’s best pitchers, making his struggles a major surprise. Raleigh, meanwhile, is known for his power, but this season has been difficult for him, so three home runs in one game are a strong signal that he is rediscovering his best form. A Seattle Sports article notes that all of Raleigh’s hits came from the left side of the plate, making him even more versatile and dangerous for opposing teams. It remains to be seen what happens next, but one thing is certain: this is an evening that will be remembered for a long time and could become a turning point in the season for the “blue and teal.”

Injury Ends Seattle’s Top Prospect’s Rookie Season

Ups and downs are a normal part of a young athlete’s career, but sometimes a string of setbacks receives an unexpected—and unfortunately logical—explanation. That is what happened to 21-year-old Seattle Mariners shortstop Colt Emerson, whose first Major League Baseball season has ended early because of a wrist injury requiring surgery. Emerson’s year is a classic example of how hidden pain can turn a promising start into a disappointing finish—and how important it is to acknowledge a problem in time, even if doing so means leaving the roster.

According to Seattle Sports insider Shannon Drayer, surgery on Emerson’s left wrist is scheduled for Wednesday. Despite the seriousness of the procedure, Emerson is expected to make a full recovery and be ready for the start of spring training in 2027, although doctors will monitor his condition closely. The news marks the final point in a series of events that began on August 14, when the player was placed on the 10-day injured list with inflammation of the wrist tendons. At the time, it appeared to be only a temporary setback, but a conversation with the front office changed everything.

The most interesting turn in the story occurred before the official announcement. Emerson was initially supposed to be sent to the minor leagues, but during a meeting with manager Dan Wilson and the team’s executive director, he honestly admitted how severe the pain in his wrist had become. The revelation, reported by Ryan Divish of The Seattle Times, proved decisive: instead of being demoted, Emerson was placed on the injured list. The development says a great deal—first, about the trust between the young athlete and the coaching staff, and second, about how directly Emerson’s late-season statistics were connected to his physical condition.

The numbers paint a troubling picture. In just 69 games at the highest level, Emerson posted a modest .190 batting average with a .581 OPS, hitting eight home runs and six doubles while “earning” 83 strikeouts against only 15 walks. However, those statistics are misleading without context. The left-handed infielder made his debut on May 17 and immediately announced his arrival by hitting a home run in his second game. Through June 16, his numbers looked impressive: a .241 average, an .867 OPS, and an outstanding 145 wRC+, meaning he was 45% more productive than the league average. Then came a sharp decline. Over his next 45 games, his batting average fell to .162 and his OPS collapsed to .420. The most alarming warning sign was a staggering 38.3% strikeout rate, indicating serious problems with coordination and swing timing that may well have been caused by the wrist pain.

This season was supposed to be Emerson’s breakthrough year. He began it ranked as the No. 7 prospect in all of baseball by MLB Pipeline, and on March 31 he signed a record-setting pre-debut contract for eight years and $95 million, keeping him with the Mariners through 2033. The club’s investment underscores how highly it values the young shortstop’s talent. Now the team and player must not only restore his health but also prevent a disappointing debut from damaging the confidence of a promising athlete.

In the long term, this injury may prove to be only a brief episode in a lengthy career. The early diagnosis of the problem, even if delayed, offers hope that after surgery and full rehabilitation, Emerson will return as the player Seattle expected him to become. For the Mariners, it is also a test of patience—they will have to build next season without one of their key young assets and rely on other candidates in the middle infield. The break may even benefit Emerson himself, giving him time not only to heal his hand but also to reassess his approach to playing at the highest level. As the careers of many stars have shown, early difficulties often become the foundation for future success.

Mariners Captain Puts on a Show: Raleigh’s Three Home Runs Turned the Game Around

On Monday night at the stadium in Seattle, something happened that Mariners fans will remember for a long time. Cal Raleigh, the team’s starting catcher, delivered perhaps the best game of his career, hitting three home runs against the Philadelphia Phillies—a team that had recently been regarded as one of the most formidable forces in the league. The lopsided victory not only strengthened Seattle’s position in the standings but also gave its fans a rare evening of pure baseball enjoyment.

Three home runs may not sound extraordinary. In Major League Baseball, it happens, although not every day. But the context and the opponent matter. The Phillies arrived in Seattle riding an impressive winning streak; their pitching looked nearly unhittable, and their lineup commanded respect from every opponent. Against that kind of team, Raleigh, who had not always been consistent this season, single-handedly decided the outcome. His third ball over the wall was accompanied by a characteristic roar—a signature gesture from the catcher that seemed to say, “We’re not here by accident.”

Seattle has long built its identity around pitching and defense, but offensive performances like Raleigh’s are what turn a good team into a dangerous one. When a catcher, who is usually responsible for working with pitchers and playing defense, begins carrying the offense as well, it is a serious indication that the Mariners are ready to fight for a playoff spot. Three home runs in one game were not only a personal milestone for Raleigh but also a powerful signal to the entire club: the offense is waking up.

As for the game itself, it unfolded according to a script Phillies fans will likely want to forget. The visitors’ pitchers never found an answer for Raleigh, who clearly felt comfortable every time he stepped to the plate. After his first home run, the score was tied; after the second, Seattle took the lead; and the third turned the game into a formality. The Mariners’ defense also gave the opponent no opportunities, allowing the team to dominate throughout the game.

For those who are not deeply familiar with baseball terminology, a home run is a hit after which the batter touches all four bases and scores a run—or several runs if teammates are already on base. Three home runs in one game are sometimes called a “three-homer game,” a sign that a player is in ideal physical and mental form. Raleigh was not merely hitting—he was reading the opposing pitchers like an open book, which is especially valuable against a strong pitching staff like Philadelphia’s.

Interestingly, the game also served as a test of Raleigh himself. His statistics early in the season were far from ideal, and critics had already begun writing him off as an offensive player. But nights like Monday are the best reminder that everything can change instantly in baseball. One good day, one string of pitches, and yesterday’s “weak” hitter becomes the hero of the night.

The atmosphere at the stadium also deserves mention. Seattle fans, known for their passion, turned the game into a celebration, greeting each home run with cheers and chants. The Mariners’ players in the dugout were equally unable to contain their emotions, while Raleigh himself clearly savored the moment after his third hit, understanding that such nights do not happen often. That is the beauty of baseball—it can deliver surprises even in the most familiar settings.

The victory over Philadelphia has strategic significance for Seattle. First, it provides a psychological boost before a series of home games. Second, it sends competitors a message that the team can challenge the leaders. Raleigh will undoubtedly become the main topic of discussion in sports media, and deservedly so. But it is important to remember that baseball remains a team sport, and the Mariners’ success is the result of the entire group, from the pitchers to the position players. Raleigh became the face of the victory—the player who took on the role of the evening’s hero.

As for the game’s long-term significance, it may well become a starting point for Seattle’s season. A team that spent the year balancing winning and losing stretches finally showed what it can do at full strength. Fans can only hope that this night becomes the rule rather than the exception. More about the game can be found in the original Seattle Times article, which also includes photographs from the memorable matchup.

Still, Philadelphia should not be counted out. One loss, even a heavy one, does not make a team weak. The Phillies have too much talent and too experienced a coaching staff to panic. Rather, this is a warning: there are no easy opponents in the playoffs, and any game can end unexpectedly. For Seattle, meanwhile, the matchup was a perfect example of how capitalizing on opportunities and believing in yourself can change the course of a contest against a favorite.

And yet, returning to Raleigh: performances like this are remembered forever. When his career is over and fans look back through the statistics, they will remember evenings like this—when one player carried the team on his shoulders and led it to victory. Three home runs against one of the league’s best teams are the stuff of legend. The Mariners now know that when their catcher is locked in, they can beat anyone.

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Seattle Digest: A Hidden Park, a Baseball Injury, and a Culinary Breakthrough

A look at Seattle’s top stories: the hidden gem of Carkeek Park, with panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains; a frustrating injury to a Mariners player threatening the team’s playoff hopes; and The Wayland Mill restaurant, which made Bon Appétit’s national best-new-restaurants list.

Seattle’s Carkeek Park: A Hidden Gem Among Emerald Forests

When people think of Seattle, many picture the famous Space Needle, Starbucks cafés on every corner, and seemingly endless rain. But locals know that the city’s nickname, the “Emerald City,” has nothing to do with the land of Oz. It comes from the remarkable number of green spaces, parks, and wooded areas woven into the urban landscape. Among them is a true giant that tourists often overlook: Carkeek Park, sprawling across 216 acres of scenic land along the shores of Puget Sound.

The park is a genuine wildlife refuge within the city, where mountain ranges meet ocean waves and dense forests alternate with low-lying wetlands and flower-filled meadows. Its history stretches deep into the past. Long before European settlers arrived, Indigenous encampments stood here. Later, the land was used for farming and, at one point, even served as a garden to grow food for animals at the local zoo. In the 1920s, the Civilian Conservation Corps worked in the area, and it was not until 1929 that the land officially became a city park. Thanks to its hilly terrain and steep ravines, which made development difficult, the area has retained much of its original beauty.

Carkeek’s main attraction is its breathtaking view of the Olympic Mountains from the beach. On a clear day, visitors can take in a magnificent panorama of snow-capped peaks reflected in the waters of the sound. Guests can stroll along the shoreline and watch seals and sea lions, which often rest on the coastal rocks. However, visitors should keep their distance and avoid disturbing the wildlife. The marine life is not the park’s only draw for nature lovers: a network of hiking trails winds through wooded areas, along babbling streams, and across open meadows. The park has all the amenities of a modern urban park, from playgrounds and picnic areas to parking and restrooms. Its true value, however, lies in its wild and untouched character.

What makes the park especially appealing is that it remains less familiar to tourists than better-known destinations such as Discovery Park or the Washington Park Arboretum. One reason may be its distance from downtown: reaching Carkeek from central Seattle takes about half an hour by car. But that remoteness also protects the park from crowds, allowing visitors to enjoy a sense of connection with nature in relative solitude. As noted in an article on Islands.com, Carkeek is an ideal destination for anyone who wants to see Seattle at its most beautiful without dealing with tourist crowds.

To understand the park’s scale, consider that it is comparable in size to such major attractions as the 230-acre Washington Park Arboretum, though it is smaller than the 534-acre Discovery Park. Carkeek stands out, however, because of its unique ecosystem, which combines coastal areas, wetlands, forests, and open meadows. This variety of landscapes makes the park a paradise for bird-watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. It is particularly impressive that, despite the surrounding urban development, the park has preserved its native flora and fauna—a rare achievement for a major city.

Beyond its natural beauty, Carkeek plays an important role in the lives of Seattle residents. It is not merely a place for walks but also an ecological corridor connecting different natural areas of the city. Locals use the park for morning runs and family picnics. After dark, astronomy enthusiasts can often be seen arriving to admire the night sky away from the city lights. The park’s historical value is also undeniable: traces of Indigenous activity and early settlement serve as reminders of the area’s rich past. Perhaps it is this combination of natural beauty, historical heritage, and relative solitude that makes Carkeek one of Seattle’s most attractive destinations for those seeking a true connection with nature without leaving the city.

Donovan’s Injury: A Bizarre Incident That Could Cost the Mariners a Playoff Spot

An unusual and deeply frustrating incident occurred within the Seattle Mariners organization ahead of Saturday’s game against the Chicago Cubs. It emerged that one of the team’s key players, Brendan Donovan, suffered a head injury during pregame practice while in the batting cage without a protective helmet. General manager Justin Hollander revealed details of the incident, calling it a “freak accident.” A ball thrown inaccurately by an unnamed Mariners staff member struck the player directly in the head, forcing him to leave the field and go on the injured list with a concussion.

This is already Donovan’s third injury of the season, his first year in Seattle. Earlier, he landed on the injured list twice because of a strained left groin, with one recovery period lasting more than two months. As a result of all these health problems, he has appeared in only 39 games—a major disappointment for both the player and the team, which had high expectations for him. Hollander expressed sympathy, saying the year had been “hell” for Donovan: someone who loves playing baseball has barely been able to do so.

The timing makes the injury especially frustrating, as Donovan had only just begun to regain his form after returning to the field in early August. In the 11 games before the incident, he had performed consistently well, reaching base in 10 of them, including six games with two or more hits. His numbers during that stretch were impressive: a .318 batting average, a .375 on-base percentage, and six runs scored. The player had clearly found his rhythm, and the team was counting heavily on his contribution during the decisive stage of the season.

For context, the baseball slash line of .318/.375/.386 includes three key statistics: batting average, on-base percentage—which includes walks and hit-by-pitches—and slugging percentage, which accounts for total bases. The .375 figure means Donovan successfully reached base in 37.5% of his plate appearances, a very strong result at the professional level.

The problem is compounded by the fact that the injury occurred at the most critical point of the season. The Mariners are in a desperate fight to reach the playoffs, with only 31 regular-season games remaining. At present, the team trails the Houston Astros by three games in the race for first place in the American League West and is also three games behind the Cleveland Guardians in the pursuit of the final wild-card spot. Every lost game could prove decisive, and the roster is already depleted by injuries.

Donovan is not the club’s only significant loss. The team is also without shortstop J.P. Crawford, who is recovering from inflammation in his left wrist, although he is expected to return Tuesday. In addition, rookie Colt Emerson will undergo wrist surgery Wednesday, ending his season. Together, these developments leave the team’s management facing a difficult question: how can it compensate for the absence of several key players at the most important point of the year?

Hollander said that standard batting-cage drills before a game are entirely routine for major-league players, and Donovan frequently takes part in them. He stressed that it was “nobody’s fault,” but simply an accident in which a thrown ball veered off course. Donovan is still experiencing concussion symptoms, although his condition has improved significantly since the first few days. He will not be able to return before Sunday, but the precise recovery timeline remains unknown because concussions are unpredictable injuries in which symptoms can fluctuate.

As Seattle Sports reports, the Mariners face an extremely demanding schedule, and every game is now crucial. The team hopes Donovan will return quickly, but medical professionals are always especially cautious with concussions, and the player’s health is more important than any playoff ambitions. The incident also raises questions about safety measures during practice, although the team does not appear poised to change its routine based on management’s comments. Baseball remains a sport in which even an innocuous practice can turn into a serious setback. For now, all that remains is to hope that the talented player makes a quick recovery and can help his team in the decisive fight for a playoff berth.

The Wayland Mill: The Seattle Restaurant That Impressed Bon Appétit

Seattle has traditionally been associated with coffee, famous hot dogs, and an abundance of seafood. Now the city has another reason to be proud: The Wayland Mill has been named one of the 19 best new restaurants in the country by the respected culinary magazine Bon Appétit. It is the only restaurant from Washington state to make the prestigious list and one of six representatives from the West Coast.

The magazine highlights the restaurant’s atmosphere, which its writers say leaves a lasting impression. Even if you cannot get a table during peak hours—and on weekends, hopeful diners may wait about an hour in a crowd outside—you will still be charmed by the hospitality that defines the place. Standout dishes include biscuits with miso gravy and chashu pork, as well as meatloaf with spicy tonkatsu sauce, served with a slice of shokupan from Saint Bread bakery.

The restaurant is led by chef and owner Yasuaki Saito, who offers guests a unique combination of Midwestern American warmth and Japanese aesthetics. Located in the North Lake Union neighborhood, the restaurant presents itself as an all-day café and restaurant open every day. Its concept is based on “yōshoku,” the Japanese tradition of adapting Western dishes to Japanese tastes.

To understand yōshoku, consider such Japanese creations as hambāgu, the Japanese-style hamburger steak; spaghetti Napolitan with vegetables and sausage; or doria, a casserole resembling French gratin. The Wayland Mill interprets this tradition in its own way, creating what it calls “yōshoku Americana.” Its Japanese-American breakfast, for example, includes an omelet with mirin, dashi, and aonori, served with teriyaki-glazed bacon or marinated shiitake mushrooms. Even the classic Caesar salad has been reimagined: the traditional dressing has been replaced with a sauce based on shottsuru and yuzu.

Interestingly, Chef Saito also owns Saint Bread bakery, allowing him to use fresh shokupan, a Japanese bread known for its soft texture. A FOX 13 Seattle article notes that the restaurant also offers dishes with a local touch, including a breakfast sandwich with egg foo yung salad and yum-yum sauce. This bold blending of cultures makes the restaurant distinctive not only in Seattle but across the country.

Making Bon Appétit’s list is more than recognition for the chef; it is also a sign that interest in Japanese-American cuisine extends far beyond traditional sushi bars. Experts note that such hybrid concepts are becoming a trend in modern gastronomy, and The Wayland Mill demonstrates how seemingly incompatible culinary traditions can be combined. For diners, it is an opportunity to try something genuinely new. For the restaurant industry, it is an example of how creativity and attention to detail can lead to national success. Given that the restaurant is open seven days a week and offers online ordering, it is clear that the team expects a steady stream of guests eager to discover why the establishment was named one of the best in the United States.

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Washington Introduces Mount St. Helens License Plates

Washington drivers can now choose license plates featuring Mount St. Helens, the volcano in the southwestern part of the state that erupted in 1980. Previously, the plates were available only to a limited group of motorists, but they can now be ordered by anyone who prefers a local symbol to the familiar image of Mount Rainier.

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Based on: Mount St. Helens license plates now available to everyone

Seattle’s Freeway Park Turns 50

Seattle celebrated the 50th anniversary of Freeway Park, an unusual urban space built above Interstate 5 in the heart of the city. The park was one of the first examples in the United States of transforming concrete transportation infrastructure into a public area with greenery, walkways and places to relax. Its anniversary has once again drawn attention to how downtown Seattle and residents’ attitudes toward large-scale road infrastructure have changed.

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Based on: Seattle’s Freeway Park marks a half-century of downtown ups and downs

Late sunset and lunar eclipse expected in Seattle

Seattle is approaching its last sunset after 8 p.m. in 2026, and residents will soon be able to watch a lunar eclipse as well. The article also mentions an Araneus diadematus spider, known for its circular, spiral-shaped webs: In mid-August, one was spotted on a leaf next to its web in West Seattle. According to spider expert Rod Crawford of the Burke Museum, the species has moved into the region; however, the excerpt provided does not include details about the sunset time, the eclipse’s characteristics or the spider’s later fate.

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Based on: Seattle weather: Last 8 p.m. sunset of 2026, lunar eclipse ahead

National Park Service responds to call for Stehekin road repairs

The U.S. National Park Service this week responded to a letter from Chelan County commissioners, who expressed doubts about the federal agency’s ability to reliably and permanently restore a vital road in the Stehekin area before the start of the fall flood season. The road is critical for local residents and access to the valley, but after previous damage, officials fear that temporary measures may prove inadequate ahead of another rise in water levels. Stehekin is located in a remote valley in Washington state, and the Stehekin River runs through it; the National Park Service’s position is not detailed in the material provided.

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Based on: National Park Service responds to letter calling for Stehekin road repairs

Seattle Says Goodbye to Summer: Heat, Smoke and Seahawks Injuries

Seattle’s final hot day of summer could arrive as early as Tuesday, but the warmth will also bring wildfire smoke back with it. Meanwhile, the Seahawks have lost fan favorite Jake Bobo to a serious knee injury, while a preseason matchup against the Titans will help determine who becomes the starting quarterback.

Tuesday Could Be Seattle’s Last Truly Hot Day of Summer as Wildfire Smoke Returns

Seattle forecasters are asking a provocative question: could the coming Tuesday mark the end of the truly hot days this summer? According to a recent analysis by meteorologist Scott Sistek of the Emerald City Weather blog, the region’s summer may enter a new phase as early as this week. Before residents and visitors say goodbye to the heat, however, they will have to deal with the return of wildfire smoke.

The article uses an engaging analogy, comparing Seattle’s summer weather pattern to children playing on a quiet street: when someone shouts, “Car!” everyone briefly moves aside to let the vehicle pass, then returns to the game. Summer in this region works much the same way—occasional weather systems briefly interrupt a run of sunny days, but conditions soon return to normal. For example, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport has still recorded no measurable precipitation throughout August, underscoring the dry nature of the current season.

The remnants of the cyclone that brought record-setting thunderstorms and six hours of lightning activity to Vancouver and Vancouver Island last weekend are gradually moving away, giving way to sunshine. Forecasters are calling for clear skies and temperatures around 27 degrees Celsius on Monday, while Tuesday promises to be particularly interesting. Winds will shift direction, bringing warmer air and temperatures of 29–30 degrees Celsius—already considered “hot” by local standards. Longtime Seattle residents know that most people begin feeling uncomfortable around 28–29 degrees, with anything higher prompting widespread complaints about the heat.

There is, however, a downside to this temperature peak. As Sistek notes, the change in wind direction will almost certainly bring wildfire smoke back from British Columbia. Forecast models indicate that Seattle’s skies will become hazy by Monday or Tuesday, although preliminary data suggest that heavy ground-level smoke is unlikely. Conditions may be more complicated near the foothills of the Cascades, where smoke from Eastern Washington and the Canadian Fraser River valleys could arrive and reduce air quality. The smoke will probably temper the heat somewhat, but experts advise enjoying the warmth while it lasts, because the weather is about to change.

Beginning Wednesday, atmospheric pressure will shift and a cold front will move through the region. Winds will turn westward again, clearing out both the heat and the smoke while bringing cloudier skies and cooler conditions. Light rain is possible north of Seattle, but significant precipitation is not expected. By the end of the week, temperatures will fall to a comfortable 23–25 degrees Celsius, with dry but mostly clear weather continuing. Long-range forecast models point to increased storm activity around the beginning of September, which could bring meaningful rainfall and a substantial cooldown, although the exact timing remains uncertain.

Experts are reassuring those who are not ready to give up summer weather: warm days are still possible in September, and the region’s climate history includes instances when temperatures reached 30 degrees Celsius even in October. Still, the overall forecast trend is shifting toward a more “cyclonic” pattern, with more clouds and cooler winds from the ocean. That does not necessarily mean autumn will arrive early in the fullest sense, but the number of truly hot days will decline.

Sistek cites interesting statistics from Dana Felton, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service. Last Saturday marked Seattle’s 37th consecutive day with temperatures of at least 21 degrees Celsius, placing the city tenth in the historical rankings for the length of such streaks. The record was set in 2017, when the streak lasted 72 consecutive days. There is also a chance that this August will become only the sixth month in recorded history in which every day was warmer than 21 degrees Celsius. The other such years were 2022, 2017, 2012, 2003 and 1967. At the same time, the airport could match the 2012 record for the lowest amount of August rainfall, with only a trace of rain recorded.

Here is an interesting fact for climate-record enthusiasts: Seattle’s lowest temperature ever recorded in August has not been surpassed since August 8, 1974, when the thermometer fell to 8.9 degrees Celsius. The statistic is a striking reminder that the region can still surprise even at the height of summer, although the warming trend of recent decades is becoming increasingly clear.

In short, Seattle is on the verge of a noticeable shift in its weather pattern. The last truly summery day could arrive as early as Tuesday, bringing another round of wildfire smoke with it. Although a complete farewell to warm weather is not expected, those looking forward to cooler autumn conditions should prepare for changes in the coming days.

Preseason Test: Seahawks vs. Titans — A Battle for Rhythm and Coaches’ Trust

NFL preseason games rarely become events capable of overshadowing the regular season, but these August matchups often produce decisions that shape a team’s fortunes for months. When the Seattle Seahawks take the field at Nissan Stadium in Nashville against the Tennessee Titans on August 23, 2026, more than an exhibition-game victory will be at stake. The teams will also be evaluating which quarterbacks deserve starting roles and which belong further down the depth chart. For both franchises, the game will serve as a kind of litmus test of roster depth and players’ ability to handle pressure.

The Titans enter the matchup with confidence after a convincing 19–13 victory in their preseason opener. Their success was built on fundamentals: a powerful rushing attack that produced 167 yards on the ground and steady kicking that generated 13 points. That is exactly the style a head coach wants at the foundation of his team—ball control, patience and the ability to punish opponents for their mistakes. Tennessee was less impressive through the air, however. Cam Ward, the leading candidate for the starting quarterback job, managed just 57 passing yards, displaying caution more than aggression. His competitors, Will Levis and Mitchell Trubisky, saw very limited action, only intensifying the intrigue surrounding Tennessee’s quarterback position.

Seattle presents a very different picture. The team comes into the game after a painful 17–7 loss in its first preseason contest, in which the offense showed a troubling trend: only 156 total yards, including just 49 passing yards. The Seahawks’ attack was undermined by its own mistakes, including three sacks that ended drives and a lack of depth in the route concepts. Notably, the team’s only touchdown came from Drew Lock, who, despite throwing for just 40 yards on nine completions in 13 attempts, looked like the offense’s most energetic component. His touchdown pass was one of the few bright spots in an otherwise dull performance. Lock now faces a more difficult task—not merely producing statistics, but playing consistently, avoiding sacks and giving his receivers opportunities for big plays.

Special attention should be paid to the young players using the preseason as a showcase for their abilities. Jalen Milroe, Lock’s backup, displayed his primary asset in the previous game: mobility. His 36 rushing yards and 20-yard run were the longest gains on the team, making him a dangerous weapon when the passing pocket collapses. That same mobility also worked against him, however. Three sacks for 27 yards showed that he too often tries to buy time with his legs instead of making quick decisions. Against the Titans, whose defense recorded two sacks and seven quarterback hits in its opening game, Milroe will need to find the right balance between aggression and caution.

For Tennessee, Tony Pollard is expected to return after missing part of the team’s practices but working fully on Friday. His presence in the rushing game would represent more than a simple boost—it would shift the emphasis of the entire offense. Pollard had only four carries in the first game but gained 22 yards and scored a touchdown, reminding everyone of his explosive ability. If the Titans continue to use him as their primary ball carrier, Seattle’s defense will have to make significant adjustments. In the previous game, the Seahawks recorded only two tackles for loss and no sacks, pointing to weaknesses along the defensive front.

Tactically, the matchup looks like a classic clash of philosophies. Tennessee is trying to find balance between the run and the pass through Ward, while Seattle is seeking consistency through short, quick throws designed to avoid pressure. It will be interesting to see how the Seahawks’ coaching staff uses Milroe. The team could deploy special packages featuring him, forcing the opposing defense to prepare for unfamiliar looks. Ward, meanwhile, completed only 41.7% of his passes in the first game—five of 12—and needs to show progress, as the competition for the job in Tennessee remains intense and Levis and Trubisky are waiting for their opportunities.

As with any preseason game, this matchup should not be judged by its headline names alone. The real value lies in the details: Can Lock demonstrate leadership? Can Milroe avoid turnovers? Can Pollard show that his return is not a one-off appearance but the beginning of a new chapter for the Titans’ offense? For fans following every move made by their favorite players, the game offers a chance to see how the pieces are coming together before the regular season begins. The game will be broadcast live on FOX at 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time and will also be available on the FOX One streaming service, which offers new users three days of free viewing. Those seeking deeper analysis and pregame context can visit the FOX Sports website, which features extensive coverage of the players and the teams’ tactical schemes. This game will be worth watching less for the final score than for how young players compete for roster spots, because in the NFL, the preseason is the only time when mistakes do not cost careers—but coaches remember them forever.

Jake Bobo’s Injury: Seahawks Lose Fan Favorite Before Season Begins

The Seattle Seahawks placed wide receiver Jake Bobo on injured reserve Saturday, effectively ending his 2026 season before it began. It is disappointing news for the team and its fans, who had grown fond of Bobo because of his hard work and unconventional plays. Head coach Mike Macdonald has already described the knee injury Bobo suffered Friday during a joint practice with the Tennessee Titans as “serious,” leaving the club in urgent need of a replacement.

The Seahawks signed Julian Hicks to take Bobo’s place. The young receiver has yet to appear in an NFL regular-season game. Hicks, 26, went undrafted in 2024 after playing for Albany and spent last season on the Green Bay Packers’ practice squad. His path to Seattle has been a winding one: the Seahawks signed him only a week ago, then released him Wednesday after acquiring cornerback Trevon Diggs, and have now brought him back. The sequence is a reminder of how unpredictable life in the NFL can be.

Bobo’s loss is about more than losing a single receiver. At 28 years old and entering his fourth NFL season, he was valuable not so much for his statistics—34 receptions for 323 yards and three touchdowns in 45 games—but for his versatility and special-teams contributions. Nearly 600 special-teams snaps over three seasons made him one of the team’s most valuable rotational players in that area. Fans loved him because he consistently made the most of his opportunities without being a superstar, always finding a way to contribute when it mattered.

The Seahawks now face the difficult task of finding someone who can fill the void. Hicks is unlikely to immediately become the kind of “people’s hero” Bobo was, but he has an opportunity to prove himself. The team also has other candidates who could step into a larger role. The situation is another reminder of how short NFL careers can be and how important roster depth is. For now, fans can only hope that Bobo makes a full recovery and that the team finds a way to compensate for his absence. The details of the injury and his exact recovery timeline have not been disclosed, but the coach’s tone made it clear that Bobo will not be seen on the field this season.

Incidentally, Seattle Sports news also mentions other important developments involving the team, including the sale of the franchise to the Haslam group, which has cleared its final major hurdle. That means major changes are ahead for the Seahawks, and Bobo’s injury is only one episode in that transformation.

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Congressman proposes ban on wildfire betting

As the Spokane area recovers from fires that destroyed hundreds of homes in and around the city this month, Rep. Baumgartner of eastern Washington has introduced a bill that would prohibit prediction platforms such as Polymarket and Kalshi from accepting bets on wildfires. What?

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Based on: Rep. Baumgartner pushes ban on wildfire gambling on Polymarket, Kalshi

Seattle to warm up before cooler weather returns

Seattle will see several warm days before temperatures drop again. In this photo taken April 19, 2026, the city skyline is visible from Jefferson Park.

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Based on: Seattle weather: Warm days to come before cooler temperatures return

King County now has the largest library sorting system in the U.S.

The King County Library System in Renton has installed the largest automated machine in the country for sorting books and other materials. The device helps route items to the appropriate branches and processes about 25,000 books, discs and other media every day, speeding up library operations and the return of materials to patrons.

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Based on: King County now has the nation’s largest library sorting machine

Anduril’s Maritime Ambitions Collapse as Seattle Prepares for a New Week

Today’s roundup covers three key topics: defense giant Anduril’s abrupt withdrawal from maritime operations in Seattle after the Navy canceled its program; Sunday’s forecast of morning thunderstorms followed by a warm day; and the city’s growing debate over the security of its surveillance-camera system and its dependence on a commercial cloud service.

Anduril Quietly Leaves Seattle Shipyard After U.S. Navy Program Cancellation

Defense technology giant Anduril Industries has quietly shut down its maritime operations along Seattle’s Lake Washington Ship Canal. The company confirmed to GeekWire that the departure is connected to the Pentagon’s cancellation of an autonomous-vessel program for which Anduril had leased the historic former Foss Maritime shipyard. An Anduril representative explained that the site had been used to support the Navy program, but once it was canceled, the shipyard was no longer needed. The company’s presence there had also been minimal, involving only a handful of employees. Anduril emphasized, however, that its overall presence in Seattle continues to grow through other offices.

The news marks an unexpected turn in Anduril’s maritime expansion, first reported by GeekWire in April. At the time, the company was evasive when asked about its operations at the shipyard. The plans dated back to late 2025, when Anduril announced a major partnership with South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries. The joint project envisioned a new class of dual-use autonomous surface vessels for the U.S. Navy’s Modular Attack Surface Craft (MASC) program, which sought to develop unmanned ships capable of carrying large payloads over long distances. At the time, Anduril actively promoted the Pacific Northwest as an ideal industrial base, citing the region’s rich shipbuilding heritage.

The company said it had invested tens of millions of dollars to restore the previously decommissioned Seattle shipyard, which was expected to become the initial assembly, integration and testing center for autonomous vessels under the MASC program. Those ambitious plans quickly unraveled, however. In March, the U.S. Navy canceled MASC and replaced it with a new procurement strategy for medium unmanned surface vessels, known as MUSVs. Rather than relying on a traditional competition, the new model calls for autonomous ships to be evaluated through at-sea demonstrations, with only successful systems becoming eligible for full-scale production.

When the Department of the Navy announced a list of seven defense contractors eligible to participate in the new program, it included companies such as Leidos, Huntington Ingalls Industries, Saronic Technologies and Sea Machines—but not Anduril. Companies that successfully demonstrate their vessels at sea will receive $15 million and the opportunity to compete for future procurement contracts. Water testing began in June and is scheduled to conclude in October. Anduril did not respond to additional questions about the shipyard’s fate, its maritime operations in the Seattle area or its plans for the new MUSV program.

Despite giving up the shipyard, Anduril’s broader expansion in western Washington continues to accelerate. The Costa Mesa, California-based company now has 560 employees in offices in Bellevue and downtown Seattle, up from roughly 30 four years ago, and operates a large military testing range in rural Carnation, Washington. The defense giant, which closed a $5 billion funding round earlier this year at a $61 billion valuation and is reportedly seeking a $100 billion valuation in a new round, is rapidly expanding its engineering presence in the region. Senior Vice President Tom Keane told GeekWire that the company could eventually grow its regional workforce to 1,000 employees, including engineers working on augmented-reality displays, edge-computing hardware and other military technologies.

To understand the situation, it is important to note that the MASC program was aimed at developing relatively inexpensive armed unmanned boats capable of operating in swarms and carrying a variety of weapons. The new MUSV program, by contrast, focuses on larger vessels with greater autonomy and longer mission endurance. Anduril, known for innovative products such as autonomous interceptor drones and air-defense systems, attempted to leverage its reputation to enter the maritime sector but faced stiff competition from traditional shipbuilders with decades of experience working with the Navy. Leaving Seattle does not signal a weakening of the company; rather, it appears to be a pragmatic reallocation of resources toward areas where Anduril feels more confident. The region remains strategically important to the company, which is clearly betting on a long-term presence in the Pacific Northwest’s technology ecosystem. Its maritime ambitions, however, will have to wait—at least for now.

Sunday in Seattle: Storms Depart, but the Morning May Bring a Surprise

Residents of western Washington who endured Saturday’s thunderstorms, gusty winds and lightning should not let their guard down completely: Sunday morning may bring another surprise in the form of brief downpours and isolated thunderstorms, particularly in the northern counties. Forecasters promise, however, that this will be the departing cyclone’s final act. By midday, the skies should clear, giving the region a warm and sunny day.

According to the FOX 13 Seattle forecast, the upper-level low-pressure system that brought Saturday’s unsettled weather will continue to slowly move out of the region. That means remnants of the disturbance will still affect the weather Sunday morning, with the greatest chances of rain and thunder in Skagit and Whatcom counties north of Seattle. Downpours—and in some cases thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds similar to those seen the previous day—are possible there in the morning. The activity should be noticeably weaker, however, and clouds will begin to break up around midday, giving way to sunshine.

Once the morning clouds disperse, the afternoon will bring partly cloudy skies with periods of sunshine, and some areas may see mostly clear conditions. Temperatures will rise to a comfortable 73–75°F (23–24°C), just a few degrees below the seasonal average of about 77°F (25°C). Winds will be moderate, and overall the day should be pleasant for walks and outdoor activities.

The good news for those waiting for sustained warmth is that the warming trend will continue at the start of the new week. Forecasters say temperatures could reach about 81°F (27°C) by Tuesday evening, already above average. Clear skies with minimal cloud cover should persist at least through Wednesday, with only a slight chance of brief showers returning Thursday.

It is worth explaining that the weather pattern is being shaped by an upper-level low-pressure system—an area of relatively low pressure at altitudes of roughly 2 to 6 miles (3 to 10 kilometers). Such systems are not always apparent at the surface, but they strongly influence cloud and precipitation formation. They often move slowly and can affect the same region for several consecutive days, producing repeated cycles of deteriorating and improving weather. In this case, the cyclone is gradually shifting northeast, so residual showers are concentrated in the northern areas while the southern and central parts of the state escape its influence more quickly.

The key numbers to remember: Sunday highs around 75°F, Tuesday highs up to 81°F, and only a slight chance of precipitation Thursday. For Seattle, where summers are often cool and rainy, this kind of week is a real gift—and residents should take advantage of it for outdoor activities while the weather is cooperating.

“This Contractor Needs to Go”: Cybersecurity Engineer Warns Seattle’s Camera System Is One Merger Away from a National Surveillance Network

A serious debate has erupted in Seattle over the city’s surveillance-camera system and, as often happens in such discussions, the issue is far more complicated than a simple “security versus privacy” dilemma. Cybersecurity engineer Noah Williams, a member of the Communities Not Cages coalition, appeared on KIRO Newsradio with an unexpected argument: the problem is not the cameras themselves, but the architecture supporting them. Williams recently visited the Seattle Police Department’s Real-Time Crime Center and discovered that the entire infrastructure depends on commercial cloud services operated by Axon, which effectively controls the flow of video data.

Williams’s concerns are not rooted in paranoia but in specific technical details that could have far-reaching consequences. Although the cameras themselves store recordings locally, when analysts access the data, the video stream passes through Axon’s cloud platform. During investigations, material is uploaded to evidence.com, a company-owned service. The vendor contract naturally includes assurances of confidentiality, but, Williams emphasized, the city has no technical way to independently verify how the data is actually used—and even outside auditors cannot guarantee that they can. His warning is especially troubling because the engineer was able to open the very web application used by police analysts in his own browser without authorization. That does not mean the data has already been compromised, but it significantly expands the system’s “attack surface”: any hacker targeting Axon, or any government agency capable of pressuring the company, could potentially gain access to the city’s cameras without Seattle’s knowledge.

The greatest concern involves a hypothetical request from federal agencies such as ICE. As Williams explained, if ICE wanted the data, it could simply send a subpoena directly to Axon, and the city might never know. Seattle has an official policy of not sharing data with federal immigration authorities, so such a request could bypass the municipality entirely. Williams also warned about market trends: the same business model that created Axon’s current architecture could lead to an even more dangerous monster. He openly argued that, in his view, the contractor should be replaced. He also noted that the Fusus system used by the city was itself acquired by Axon. Under the current Federal Trade Commission policy, which is favorable toward mergers, nothing would prevent a competitor such as Flock from acquiring Axon and merging the two systems into a massive nationwide surveillance network controlled from another state.

Interestingly, despite his sharp criticism of the current arrangement, Williams is not categorically opposed to cameras. He cited the surveillance system on King County Metro buses as the “gold standard”: recordings are stored on local DVR devices that are not connected to the internet, and access is available only for incident investigations. In his view, that approach protects both security and privacy. Any new system, Williams insists, should store data exclusively on servers owned by the city.

The studio discussion was lively. Co-host Angela Poe Russell, who has personal experience with street violence—a bullet struck her husband’s car, and the perpetrator was never found—directly challenged the coalition’s position. She said it is easy for people living in safe neighborhoods to argue against cameras, while residents of dangerous areas want a surveillance system capable of protecting them. Jim Dever, another host, acknowledged the risks but admitted that in his ideal world, cameras would be everywhere, controlled by civilian agencies but inaccessible to the federal government. A third participant, producer Joe Wallace, suggested a compromise, observing that Williams effectively accepts the presence of cameras as long as their architecture remains closed, as with the bus system.

The NYU Policing Project, an independent research group, is expected to publish a report on Seattle’s camera system by the end of September. Williams hopes it will provide clear answers to key questions about where the encryption keys are stored and who controls them. He compares the situation metaphorically to the locks on a front door: one thing is to hire a company that installs locks and hands you the keys; quite another is to hire a company that can remotely change those keys at any time. The entire episode looks like a classic conflict between municipal government and corporate commercial interests, with residents held hostage by market decisions over which they have no control. The full discussion is available in a video, and the article can be found on the MyNorthwest website.

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Seattle teacher talks could affect the start of the school year

Seattle Public Schools and the Seattle Education Association, the union representing about 6,000 teachers, instructional assistants, secretaries, counselors and other employees, are continuing to negotiate a new contract. The current agreement expires Aug. 31, and classes are scheduled to begin Sept. 2, leaving the two sides little time.

On Aug. 26, union members will vote on a tentative agreement or authorization to strike. Under Washington state rules, the union must complete legally required bargaining and mediation procedures before calling a strike. Authorities may also go to court if a strike violates established requirements, though its legality depends on the specific circumstances.

A similar situation occurred in 2022, when a teachers’ strike delayed the start of the school year by five days. If the current negotiations end without an agreement, a strike would likely begin Sept. 2. In that case, schools could close, leaving families to arrange child care on their own. Missed school days are generally made up by extending the school year or changing the academic calendar. Teachers typically do not receive pay for strike days, although the union may provide participants with separate financial assistance.

According to union Vice President Davina Diaz, the main disagreements concern educators’ working hours and salaries. Teachers want more time to prepare lessons and collaborate with colleagues, rather than attend additional meetings and complete reports on student outcomes. The union also says employees do not always understand how the data they collect are used or where they can access it for lesson planning.

The negotiations are taking place amid a budget deficit of about $100 million at Seattle Public Schools. Several factors contributed to the shortfall: enrollment declined after the pandemic, and state funding depends heavily on the number of students. At the same time, salaries, health care costs and the cost of maintaining school buildings have increased. Special education programs have added further pressure: federal funding covers only part of the expenses, while state funding does not always fully reimburse them. The district also retained more employees and programs than its reduced revenues could support, while temporary federal pandemic aid has ended.

New district Superintendent Ben Shuldiner is seeking to cut expenses; the proposed budget for the 2026–27 school year calls for at least $20 million in savings. The union, meanwhile, is seeking relatively modest raises: 1% to 3% for certificated employees and 3% to 5% for others, in addition to the cost-of-living adjustment required by law. In 2022, teachers secured a 7% raise.

In addition to salaries and working hours, the two sides are discussing class sizes, students’ physical, social and mental health support, special education, and rules governing the installation of surveillance cameras in schools. The district and union also establish benefits and many working conditions through the collective bargaining agreement. The Seattle Education Association represents employees and can use negotiations, public demonstrations and strikes, while the district approves the budget and signs the agreement.

Washington state sets educational standards, the funding formula and special education requirements, but it generally does not directly determine the salary of each Seattle Public Schools teacher. Federal law, meanwhile, requires the district to provide appropriate services to students with disabilities. The district must organize and fund that support within the law and its available resources, making it one of the most difficult issues in the current negotiations.

Diaz said the bargaining team is prepared to meet every day, including weekends, and that the union has already trained some members in picket-line procedures in case of a strike. Shuldiner expressed optimism, noting that the district and union remain in constant contact, including on weekends. He said the two sides are working to reach an agreement that benefits students, supports employees, remains financially responsible and allows schools to begin the school year successfully.

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Based on: Seattle teachers union still negotiating as school year looms

Star Moves and the Debut of the Year: Seattle’s Top News

A look at the key developments: the Seattle Sounders bolster their attack with top scorer Dejan Joveljić, the Mariners debut top prospect Kade Anderson, and Brendan Donovan is sidelined with a possible concussion.

“A Bold Deal”: Seattle Buys Joveljić for $6 Million as Kansas City Rebuilds

In North American soccer, it is rare to see a transfer that simultaneously solves one club’s immediate problems and launches another’s long-term rebuild. The acquisition of striker Dejan Joveljić by the Seattle Sounders from Sporting Kansas City is exactly that kind of deal. According to sources familiar with the situation, the transfer fee was $6 million, and the Washington club will receive the Serbian forward as a designated player—a special MLS category that allows a team to pay a star more than the standard salary cap permits. Fabrizio Romano was the first to report the deal officially, and the details were confirmed in The Athletic’s report.

For Seattle, this is more than a targeted reinforcement; it is a signal that the club has finally emerged from its slumber. After a series of injuries and lackluster performances, the team has fallen to 12th in the West, scoring just 21 goals in 19 matches—the second-worst mark in the league, ahead of only Kansas City. The Sounders have endured a genuine drought in attack, and that is precisely where a cool finisher like Joveljić is needed. In 2024, he starred for the LA Galaxy, helping the team win the MLS Cup with 21 goals and eight assists in 33 matches. After that season, the Galaxy were unable to retain him as a designated player and sold him to Kansas City for $4 million, but the Serbian continued to demonstrate his quality there. In a season and a half with Sporting, he scored 26 goals in 52 appearances, even though the team spent much of that time in transition and creating very few chances. Last season, he set a personal record with 18 goals in the regular season, despite his club ranking fourth from the bottom in expected goals (xG). That speaks to his unique instinct in front of goal: Joveljić can score even when his team is not playing attacking soccer.

Seattle’s situation is the opposite. The team ranked fourth in the league in xG last season, meaning it created chances but failed to finish them. With Joveljić—whom experts call one of the best finishers in MLS history—the Sounders are getting a player in his prime. He is only 27 and already has half a decade of high-level experience in the league. This is perhaps the lowest-risk designated-player signing imaginable: there is no need to wait for him to adapt to MLS or wonder how he will fit into the squad—he has already proven himself in a wide range of circumstances. If Seattle can get its injured players healthy and rediscover its former form, the attack could become genuinely formidable. Even if that does not happen, Joveljić is the kind of striker who will always find a goal.

The more intriguing side of the deal, however, is Sporting Kansas City’s decision to sell its leading scorer. The club sits last in the league and, at first glance, appears to be giving up its main attacking force. But Kansas City’s leadership is looking to the future. Sporting will receive $6 million in cash for Joveljić, with up to $3 million convertible into allocation money. This is a special MLS currency that allows clubs to manage the salary cap and sign more expensive players without using designated-player slots. Such moves are essential to making that possible, and Sporting has already signed a club-record 17 newcomers this year. Although parting with Joveljić was difficult both professionally and personally—his character and contribution in the locker room have been especially praised—the club is deliberately sacrificing the current season for its medium-term prospects. Kansas City has already spent $18 million on winger André Luís, bought out midfielder Manu García’s contract, and is now actively seeking two more designated players: a playmaker and a center forward.

Essentially, this is a rare case in which both sides win tactically. Seattle addresses its biggest attacking weakness, while Kansas City, after making a difficult but deliberate decision, gains financial flexibility and the freedom to build a new team aimed at 2027 and beyond. Sporting’s current season is already lost, and the club is betting that smart investment and the young players brought in this year will pay off in the future. For Joveljić, meanwhile, this is a return to a club competing near the top of the table and a chance to prove himself on a major stage once again. In Seattle, goals are expected from him immediately. The only question is whether the Serbian can single-handedly pull the team out of its hole or whether his arrival will merely be the first brick in a much larger Sounders rebuilding project. We will likely begin to see the answer in the coming matches, as the team tries to repair its position in the standings.

Long-Awaited Debut: The Mariners Call Up Their System’s Top Diamond

Seattle has finally opened the door for its most valuable asset. On Saturday morning, the Mariners officially promoted Kade Anderson from Double-A to the major-league roster, and the move was more than a routine transaction—it was a genuine baseball event. The 22-year-old left-hander, selected third overall in the 2025 draft, is preparing to make his “big-league” debut against the Chicago Cubs at 4:15 p.m. local time. This is not simply the call-up of another prospect; it is the introduction of a player many experts already consider the future face of the franchise.

To make room on the 40-man roster and the 26-man active roster, the club made the difficult decision to designate left-hander Jonathan Díaz for assignment. For the 29-year-old veteran, it is a familiar procedure: this is his third consecutive season appearing on Seattle’s roster, but each time he has failed to establish himself permanently. His path this year has been difficult. At Triple-A, he was inconsistent, finishing 24 games—23 of them starts—with a 7–9 record and a dreadful 6.22 ERA. In his only appearance this week against Seattle, Díaz allowed one run and delivered merely an average performance. He will now be placed on waivers, and it is likely that a team lacking pitching depth will claim him.

The undisputed main character in this story is Anderson himself. His Double-A numbers look like fantasy figures rather than real-season statistics. In 18 starts for the Travelers, he went an astonishing 10–1 with a 1.06 ERA and a 0.64 WHIP. Over 93⅓ innings, he struck out 135 batters while issuing just 13 walks—a ratio that reflects extraordinary control and maturity for a young player. Opponents hit only .147 against him, while his 40.5% strikeout rate is the best in all of the minor leagues. His finish is particularly impressive: he completed his last four starts without allowing an earned run, extending his scoreless streak to 20⅔ innings. Thirteen of his 18 outings were completely “clean,” and he allowed more than two runs only once. The dominance has been so complete that even the most skeptical scouts have been forced to admit that the young pitcher is ready for the challenge.

It is important to understand who Kade Anderson really is. He is not merely a successful draft pick—he is a college baseball star. He won an NCAA title with LSU and was named the College World Series’ most valuable player. Every major scouting publication recognizes his talent: The Athletic ranks him first overall among prospects, MLB Pipeline places him fifth, and Baseball America ranks him sixth. At the same time, he is the unanimous top pitching prospect in the sport, something that happens extremely rarely. His 6-foot-2 frame, exceptional fastball with outstanding spin, and mental toughness make him an almost fully developed major-league product.

There is also a strategic wrinkle that is not immediately obvious. The club made this call-up with the future in mind. With fewer than 45 days remaining in the 2026 regular season, Anderson will retain his rookie status for next year if he does not exceed the 50-inning threshold in the majors. That means Seattle could become eligible for bonus draft picks through the Prospect Promotion Incentive program if Anderson wins the 2027 Rookie of the Year Award. The tactical move shows that management is thinking several steps ahead, balancing the immediate need to strengthen the rotation with a long-term benefit.

The game against the Cubs will be broadcast nationally on FOX, while Seattle Sports’ pregame show will begin at 3:00 p.m. All eyes will be on the young talent who, in the view of many observers, could single-handedly change the fate of the Mariners’ bullpen. Of course, the gap between Double-A and MLB is enormous: hitters at this level do not forgive mistakes, and the demanding schedule requires tremendous stamina. But if anyone can instantly close the distance between “prospect” and “star,” it is a talent like Anderson.

Brendan Donovan Removed from Mariners Lineup Five Minutes Before First Pitch Over Possible Concussion

Five minutes before young pitcher Kade Anderson took the mound to throw the first pitch of his major-league career, the Seattle Mariners made an unexpected announcement in the press box: third baseman Brendan Donovan had been scratched from the starting lineup, with Weston Wilson taking his place at third. Such changes are normally announced about an hour before a game—not five minutes before. Donovan had just been warming up on the field after the national anthem when it suddenly became clear that he would be unable to play. In the third inning, the team announced that Donovan had been struck in the head in the batting cage before the game and was being examined by doctors for a possible concussion. Unfortunately, no further details about the incident have been disclosed.

This is not Donovan’s first difficult episode of the season. He missed a significant portion of the year because of groin problems that developed after offseason surgery for a sports hernia. He returned to the lineup on August 4 and had looked fairly confident lately, particularly near the top of the Mariners’ batting order. He had collected 11 hits over his last seven games, making his sudden absence a serious blow to the team.

There is some good news for the Mariners, however. Pitcher Bryan Woo plans to throw a bullpen session at T-Mobile Park on Sunday—his first time throwing off a mound since leaving his most recent start in Houston with shoulder discomfort. Manager Dan Wilson called the session an “important indicator” that will help determine the rotation plans for Monday’s series against the Philadelphia Phillies. Wilson emphasized that he does not expect Woo to need an injury-related break from playing. Another reliever, Matt Brash, is also continuing his recovery from a lat strain that has sidelined him since early June. He threw a bullpen session Friday, and his next step will likely be a live batting-practice session in the coming days, although no exact timetable has been given. Another right-handed reliever, Cooper Criswell, began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Tacoma. Finally, shortstop J.P. Crawford is also continuing his recovery: on Saturday, he played for Tacoma, appearing at second base and starting at shortstop. In his first rehab game Thursday, he went hitless, and he took Friday off to rest.

Donovan’s injury is not merely an inconvenience; it is a serious problem for the Mariners, who are competing for a playoff spot. Losing a player who had just begun to regain his form could affect the entire team. Concussions are tricky: even if a player feels fine, doctors must follow protocol, and the timetable for a return can be uncertain. The only question is exactly how the blow occurred in the cage—it could have been a deflected ball, a collision with the railing, or something else. Without additional details, all anyone can do is speculate. As for Woo, his bullpen session will be a key moment: if it goes well, it will ease some of the pressure on a rotation that has been heavily taxed lately. Overall, the team appears to be trying to manage a whole series of problems without panicking, hoping for the key players to return as soon as possible.

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Widow of Washington Fisherman Denied Entry to U.S. for Funeral

Adriana Gonzalez, a Mexican citizen and the wife of 36-year-old Jefferson County resident Vincent Short, is trying to obtain permission to enter the United States to say goodbye to her husband at his funeral in Poulsbo. An open-casket service is scheduled for Aug. 22, but federal authorities have already rejected her requests twice.

Poulsbo is in Kitsap County, not Jefferson County. The funeral site was likely chosen because of Short’s family, religious or community ties, although relatives did not specify the reason. For a family connected to several parts of the state, the city became the place for the farewell ceremony.

Short lived between Port Ludlow in northwest Washington, Alaska and Mexico and worked aboard a commercial fishing vessel in Akutan. He fell from a mast on July 30 and died soon afterward, the Alaska Department of Public Safety reported. The U.S. Coast Guard confirmed that it is investigating the circumstances of his death but did not provide details.

Gonzalez wants to see her husband one last time, collect his cremated remains and take them to Ensenada, where they lived with their three children. She and Short’s relatives fear that if his body is transported to Mexico, it could be lost or decompose too severely to be viewed before burial.

“I just want to say goodbye in person — see his face, hold his hand and tell him that everything will be OK,” Gonzalez said. She wants to promise her husband that she will care for their children and remain strong, as he always asked her to do. She also keeps Short’s memory in tattoos: one is dedicated to “the love of my life, Vincent,” while another depicts robots that the couple had tattooed about 10 years ago.

Gonzalez learned of her husband’s death after he failed to respond to her evening message. The next day, Short’s relatives called her by video and told her the tragic news. She said she dropped her phone, fell to the floor and cried for a long time as she struggled to catch her breath.

Because the funeral was scheduled for Aug. 22, Gonzalez contacted the U.S. Consulate in Tijuana. She already had a tourist visa interview scheduled for September: The couple had planned to surprise his family in Washington with a Christmas visit. She asked to have the interview moved up as an emergency, but received a refusal citing Section 214(b).

That provision means the applicant failed to establish eligibility for a nonimmigrant visa and convince a consular officer that she had sufficient ties to her place of residence to guarantee her return after the trip. Having a spouse and children in Mexico is considered during the review, but does not by itself guarantee approval: The consulate also evaluates employment, income, property, the purpose of the trip, previous travel and the credibility of the application.

Gonzalez and her mother-in-law, Vanessa Brouwer, then tried to obtain humanitarian parole through the San Ysidro border crossing. Such parole is temporary permission to enter based on urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit and does not replace a tourist visa or provide an immigration status. After waiting several hours, their request was rejected again, and they were warned not to submit it at another crossing.

Humanitarian parole is generally reviewed and approved by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, while Customs and Border Protection handles the actual admission at the border. The border crossing itself does not have the authority to independently waive visa requirements at the request of a private individual. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection were unable to immediately explain the reasons for the denials.

Gonzalez and Short met in Ensenada in 2017. They met at a restaurant and then danced all night, although Short spoke very little Spanish and Gonzalez was still improving her English. He joked that his first and most important “wife” would always be the sea, because his work as a fisherman required long separations. But he later returned to Gonzalez, proposed and married her.

Over the years, the couple had children, and they continued to message each other every day, ending their conversations with the words “to the moon and back.” Now Gonzalez says she will do everything possible to say goodbye to her husband and show him that she did not leave him alone.

After the latest denial, Brouwer contacted the media and government officials. She reached out to the offices of Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson, Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, and Reps. Emily Randall and Michael Baumgartner. Members of Congress can submit inquiries to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Customs and Border Protection or the State Department, ask officials to check a case’s status and request expedited processing when there are grounds to do so. However, they cannot order federal agencies to issue a visa or approve humanitarian parole.

According to Brouwer, the offices of Murray and Baumgartner asked officials to reconsider the denial and grant an exception, but no new information had arrived by Thursday.

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Based on: Wife of WA fisherman who died in Alaska denied entry to U.S. for his funeral

Former OHSU Health System Chief Seeks $15.5 Million

Tarek Salaway, the former CEO of Oregon Health & Science University’s (OHSU) health system, has filed a $15.5 million lawsuit against the university. He alleges that he was fired after reporting concerns about patient safety, discrimination and the improper use of public funds.

OHSU is Oregon’s public academic medical center, bringing together hospitals and clinics, a medical school, training programs, research institutes and laboratories. Its divisions provide medical care, train health professionals and conduct basic and clinical research at the same time. Although individual entities may have their own leadership and budgets, they are connected as part of a single system.

Salaway held the position for less than four months and was paid about $1.4 million a year. In April, the university dismissed him, citing “professional and communication issues” while denying serious misconduct. OHSU President Shereef Elnahal had previously called Salaway’s claims about patient safety and the workplace atmosphere completely false.

In the lawsuit, Salaway says he began working to address long-standing problems soon after taking the job. Among them, he cites a situation in which more than 40 patients regularly waited for hospital beds in the emergency department, as well as shortcomings in respiratory therapy that he says seriously harmed children. He also says he raised concerns about discrimination against women and Black executives.

The former director also challenged the university’s financial decisions. In particular, he questioned a planned renovation of the medical center in Hillsboro costing about $3 million, while the institution was losing more than $1 million a month. Salaway says he acted as a whistleblower reporting misconduct and that his dismissal was retaliation for taking that position.

Oregon law generally prohibits employers from retaliating against employees for making good-faith reports of legal violations, threats to patient safety, fraud and other problems. Protection may extend to reports made to management and government agencies, and federal laws, including the False Claims Act, may also apply in cases involving possible fraud involving public funds. To prove retaliatory termination, an employee generally must show that they made a protected report, the employer knew about it, an adverse decision followed, and there was a causal connection between the events. An employer may, however, cite documented performance problems or other legitimate reasons. If successful, a plaintiff may seek reinstatement, compensation for lost wages, damages, punitive damages and reimbursement of legal fees.

The conflict escalated in March after Salaway reprimanded a departing executive for questioning the qualifications of a Black colleague responsible for patient relations. Salaway was later accused of threatening to slit that executive’s throat. He denies making the threat and says the allegation was based on accounts from third parties. In his view, portraying him as aggressive and dangerous reflected racial and anti-Muslim stereotypes; Salaway is gay, Muslim and a member of a racial minority.

OHSU launched an investigation and collected employee complaints describing Salaway as aggressive, arrogant and overconfident. He submitted a 19-page response, rejecting the allegations and restating his concerns about discrimination and patient safety. Three days later, the university fired him, saying it had lost confidence in his ability to lead, although according to the lawsuit, Elnahal said the alleged threat did not influence the decision.

As evidence supporting his concerns, Salaway points to a subsequent federal inspection. According to him, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) identified significant deficiencies at OHSU and required the institution to take corrective action on some of the problems he had reported. CMS examines whether hospitals comply with federal standards required to participate in Medicare and Medicaid. Inspections may cover patient safety, quality of care, infection control, record-keeping, staff qualifications, patient rights, emergency care and billing rules.

If an institution fails to correct violations, it may be required to submit a corrective action plan and undergo follow-up inspections. Payments may be restricted or suspended, improperly received funds may have to be repaid, and fines may be imposed. In extreme cases, a hospital may be excluded from Medicare and Medicaid, which could seriously threaten its finances because the programs pay for a substantial share of medical care.

The university is separately seeking to prevent the release of internal investigation materials, fearing that disclosure of the documents could hinder future cooperation from employees and whistleblowers.

Salaway says the scandal has harmed his career: Former employers allegedly consider him an unacceptable candidate for comparable leadership positions. He is seeking up to $13 million in compensation for lost earnings, another $2.5 million for emotional distress and reputational harm, as well as legal fees and interest. OHSU has not yet filed an official response to the lawsuit.

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Based on: Former Oregon health system CEO sues for $15.5 million

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Unique C-section saves baby gorilla in Seattle

At Seattle’s Woodland Park Zoo, a baby gorilla was delivered by cesarean section for the first time in the zoo’s history and possibly for the first time anywhere in the world in recent years. The newborn male, weighing about 2.45 kilograms, was born in May after labor in Olympia, a 30-year-old western lowland gorilla, stopped progressing. Zoo veterinarians and specialists from Providence Swedish First Hill medical center joined forces to perform the operation.

The choice of medical center reflected the complexity of the procedure: the operation required specialized equipment, a sterile operating room and doctors experienced in performing similar procedures. The zoo’s veterinary hospital provides animals with routine and emergency care, but it does not have all the capabilities of a major human medical facility.

Cesarean sections are extremely rare in gorillas: complications during birth are uncommon, while surgery carries serious risks. According to the zoo, fewer than 12 gorillas worldwide have been born this way. Olympia’s pregnancy was generally progressing normally, and veterinarians, nurses, obstetricians and an ultrasound specialist jointly monitored her and another pregnant gorilla, Jamani.

Gorilla pregnancies last about 36 weeks. To help the animals remain calm during examinations, staff used positive reinforcement, including fruit. Ultrasound examinations were conducted every two weeks, although obtaining clear images was difficult because gorillas are relatively short and have dense bodies. Over time, the animals became accustomed to the specialists, while the specialists learned to better understand their behavior.

On May 18, Jamani gave birth naturally to a healthy baby, later named Kadre. Olympia’s due date passed, and her baby was positioned unusually low in the pelvis. During a routine examination, doctors found no amniotic fluid — a likely sign that her water had broken. Labor had begun but was not progressing, and the baby’s heart rate slowed. The doctors decided it was dangerous to wait.

Olympia was anesthetized and taken to the zoo’s veterinary hospital, where specialists confirmed that the amniotic sac had ruptured. The team performed the operation in about 90 minutes, relying on surgical protocols commonly used for humans. However, after the baby was delivered, he was not breathing. This was partly explained by the effects of his mother’s anesthesia, but the team still could not immediately determine how serious the newborn’s condition was.

Doctors stimulated the baby and administered oxygen through a mask while zoo staff dried and warmed him. The team waited about 20 minutes for the first signs of improvement: gorilla infants typically do not cry at birth, making their condition more difficult to assess than that of human newborns. Eventually, the baby began breathing normally and opened his eyes. He was named Oku, while Olympia’s incision was closed with additional layers of sutures and bandages because gorillas are highly active. After she awoke, her nails were coated with polish to distract her from attempts to damage the stitches.

The next day, Olympia was returned to the group, and she soon began climbing the ropes again. At the zoo, indoor and outdoor enclosures allow animals to be temporarily separated for treatment and then gradually returned to the group, with controlled introductions to the infants while preserving their natural social bonds.

Later, Oku was introduced to his family, and Jamani began caring for two infants at once. When Kadre became weak and lost weight, staff decided not to anesthetize the mothers again: Olympia began raising Kadre, while Jamani cared for Oku. All four gorillas are doing well.

Woodland Park Zoo participates in an international managed-breeding program for western lowland gorillas, which are classified as critically endangered. Specialists coordinate genetically important pairings, monitor the animals’ health and pedigrees, and help form stable social groups. The unusual operation demonstrated how cooperation between human doctors and veterinarians can help preserve genetic diversity and save members of an endangered species.

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Based on: How Seattle medical providers delivered a baby gorilla by C-section

Court Refuses to Remove Explanation of Tax Initiative from Ballots

Washington Supreme Court Commissioner Michael Johnston rejected activist Arthur West’s motion for a preliminary injunction barring the placement of a special explanation of Initiative 645 on ballots. In the November election, voters will decide whether to repeal a new tax on wealthy state residents.

Johnston said West had not presented sufficiently compelling evidence that the law was unconstitutional to outweigh the public interest in receiving the information. The court also took into account the need to finalize the ballots and the lack of strong grounds for intervening in an election process that was already underway.

In Washington, citizen initiatives are first submitted to the secretary of state’s office, where signatures and compliance with established procedures are reviewed. If there are enough valid signatures, the measure may go to voters or be sent to the Legislature. Initiative language and official explanations must be accurate, clear and neutral, but their content often becomes the subject of legal disputes.

The current litigation is not over. West is asking the state Supreme Court to directly consider his appeal of an Aug. 7 Thurston County Superior Court ruling that previously upheld the law. Thurston County Superior Court is the court of first instance: It establishes the facts and issues the initial ruling. The state Supreme Court is Washington’s highest court and considers the most important legal questions, with decisions that are binding on courts throughout the state. Later this year, the justices will decide whether to accept the case or send it to the Court of Appeals.

West said he was disappointed by the decision but intended to continue challenging the law’s constitutionality. He argues that the explanation requirement violates the separation of powers by allowing the executive and legislative branches to interfere with citizens’ right to propose laws independently. The activist also considers the wording biased and points out that a detailed, four-page fiscal analysis will be available online and in voter materials.

Initiative 645 would repeal a 9.9% tax on earned income exceeding $1 million a year for individuals and families. Gov. Bob Ferguson signed the tax into law in late March; it is scheduled to take effect Jan. 1, 2028, with the first payments expected the following year. According to the state Department of Revenue, the tax could generate approximately $2.7 billion in its first year.

Washington has no broad personal income tax, so opponents of the initiative emphasize the specific nature of the new levy and the need to clearly determine which income it covers. Eliminating such a source of revenue could create a budget shortfall, lead to cuts or delays in programs, or force the state to raise other taxes and fees. State schools, universities and health care programs, including Medicaid for low-income residents, are among the areas considered most vulnerable. The scale of the consequences will depend on the state’s actual revenue and expenditures.

A 2022 law requires a neutral description of an initiative’s impact on state investments to be included with ballots when a measure repeals, imposes or changes a tax or fee. The explanation for Initiative 645 says its passage would reduce funding for public schools, higher education, including universities and colleges, and social services, particularly health care. The state attorney general’s office maintains that removing the text would deprive voters of information they are entitled to receive.

Budget and socioeconomic research organizations opposed the injunction. The state Republican Party, initiative supporter Tim Eyman and the Citizens in Charge Foundation, by contrast, supported West’s position.

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Based on: Court rebuffs attempt to ax ballot statement on WA income tax measure

Seattle’s Third Act: From Decline to a Renaissance of Smart Machines

Seattle is undergoing a transformation: the era of software and cloud computing is giving way to a synthesis of technology and physical manufacturing—robots, rockets, and energy systems. At the same time, Mayor Katie Wilson is facing criticism over a dance video with a rapper whose work romanticizes weapons, while also signing a directive to accelerate the Vision Zero program aimed at eliminating traffic deaths by 2030.

“Seattle’s Third Act”: How a Legendary City Is Becoming the Capital of “Smart Machines”

Seattle is going through difficult times: downtown office towers stand empty, technology giants are cutting thousands of jobs, and the legendary coffee corporation Starbucks is making a highly publicized departure from its hometown. It might seem that the technology center that until recently made headlines around the world is in decline. However, Nate Beck and Ben Eisinger, venture capital investors and columnists for GeekWire, suggest looking at the situation differently. In their view, a new, third act of the city’s development is replacing the old economy—one in which the leading role belongs not to software and cloud computing, but to “smart machines”: physical devices with artificial intelligence built into them.

The authors propose an original historical periodization. Seattle’s first act was the era of shipbuilding and aerospace, when the city learned to create complex physical infrastructure—shipyards, hangars, and factories. The second act was the dominance of software and cloud technologies, which grew on the shoulders of Microsoft and Amazon and attracted a quarter of all artificial intelligence engineers in the United States to the region. The third act, the authors argue, is a synthesis of the two previous eras: companies that create physical products controlled by software and AI. These include robots, rockets, energy systems, and autonomous vehicles—all things that operate in the real world, not only in digital space.

The central thesis is that the new “star startups” already exist, but they do not resemble earlier internet companies and are therefore easy to overlook. The authors cite specific examples. Endurance Energy, which is developing underwater geothermal power plants, operates inside a converted fish-processing facility on Lake Union, with direct access to the water for testing. Overland AI, which creates autonomous off-road vehicles, has its headquarters in Fremont and manufacturing facilities in south Seattle, while testing its equipment across hundreds of square miles of desert terrain in central Washington. Space startup Stoke Space, valued at $1 billion, has combined its factory and offices in Kent and conducts testing at a rocket range in Moses Lake. These companies are not merely staying in the region—they are moving there deliberately. Drone manufacturer Brinc relocated from Las Vegas, while startup Starcloud left California because, according to its chief executive, all the specialists it needs live in Redmond.

Seattle’s appeal to such companies lies in a unique combination of three factors: surviving industrial infrastructure, including cranes and large hangars; an exceptionally strong pool of AI talent; and deep manufacturing expertise. Purely software-based startups can go anywhere, and many move to cheaper locations or Silicon Valley. Traditional manufacturers are also leaving the city because of high taxes and rents. But for robotics, energy, space, and defense technology companies, that choice is impossible—they need water for testing, runways, and huge testing grounds. As the authors wryly observe, a coffee chain can be managed from Tennessee, but an autonomous boat cannot be tested there.

A well-developed nuclear ecosystem has provided a significant boost to Seattle’s third act. Three fusion companies—Helion, Zap, and Avalanche—have collectively raised nearly $2 billion, while TerraPower is building a next-generation reactor at a cost of $4 billion. At the same time, the authors warn against euphoria: having the necessary resources does not guarantee success. To realize its potential, the region needs cultural changes in risk-taking investment. Venture capital funds must finance capital-intensive equipment with long payback periods, talented engineers must choose unstable startups over Big Tech’s “golden handcuffs,” and local authorities must simplify permitting procedures and reduce the tax burden on manufacturing companies.

Ultimately, the authors urge their fellow residents to replace a pessimistic narrative with an optimistic one: instead of merely defending against decline, the city should build an ambitious future. That future is already visible—in a converted fish-processing facility, on factory floors in Kent, and at testing grounds where unmanned vehicles race across Washington’s vast expanses. “Seattle’s star startups were hiding in plain sight,” the authors conclude. “Now everyone else needs to mobilize behind them.” The article leaves a mixed impression. On the one hand, it offers a fresh and convincing view of the transformation of the city’s economy; on the other, it resembles a promotional manifesto intended to reverse the negative information climate. Nevertheless, the arguments behind the “third act” are quite well founded, and the examples of companies building businesses at the intersection of software and hardware confirm that Seattle does indeed hold a card that other regions have yet to play.

Seattle Dance Controversy: Mayor Criticized for Video with Rapper Whose Clips Feature Weapons

American politics occasionally produces moments when an apparently harmless gesture turns into a genuine media storm. That is what happened to Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson, whose spontaneous dance video with local rapper Y2K drew a wave of criticism and cast doubt on her position regarding street violence. The situation proved far more complicated than a simple funny Instagram video: the public discovered that the artist dancing with the mayor glorifies weapons and drugs in his videos, which include scenes featuring firearms. The incident exposed a painful issue for Seattle—a city effectively drowning in a wave of youth crime, where residents are questioning how sincere the authorities’ actions really are.

It began with what appeared to be an innocuous appearance by the mayor at a soccer match held as part of Somali Culture Week. Katie Wilson met young performer Y2K, and the two recorded a short video in which she energetically danced to his track “SEA.” The mayor’s press office quickly described it as an “impromptu boogie” and emphasized that Wilson had not known the artist before that meeting and that the event was dedicated to unity and support for underrepresented communities. However, followers and local activists soon discovered that Y2K was far from an uncontroversial figure. In his released videos, including a teaser for the new track “New Bae” and the video “My Dawgy,” the rapper appears surrounded by masked people who conspicuously display pistols. His lyrics include references to a “Glock with a switch” and chases involving nine-millimeter weapons. Particular outrage was caused by the fact that the original video for “SEA,” the song to which the mayor danced, includes a moment in which the performer pretends to shoot at the camera, as well as a reference to a Glock 19 hidden in a North Face jacket.

The criticism came quickly. Comments appeared beneath the mayor’s post such as, “Is this your public safety plan?” and “She just signed her own recall petition.” Social media users mocked the work of her public relations team, wondering how such a video could have made it onto an official account. Significantly, representatives of five nonprofit organizations working to prevent youth violence agreed to comment only on condition of anonymity because their funding depends on the city budget. One said bluntly: “This is a bad example. Whom do you represent? It seems there is no diversity of thought in that office.” In response to the wave of criticism, the rapper recorded a video defending the mayor, saying it had been an innocent moment of community unity and that this was the first time he had seen a mayor who genuinely came to the people and shared their joy. He stressed that Wilson had been with them, supported them, and taken part in the celebration, and urged people not to turn a moment of fun into something negative.

Yet behind this dancing mishap lies a much deeper and more tragic problem—the epidemic of gun violence among minors in Seattle. The city is being shaken by shootings involving teenagers. Consider the killing of two Rainier Beach High School students, who were shot at a bus stop directly outside the school, or the death of 17-year-old Amarr Murphy-Payne at the gates of Garfield High School while he was trying to break up a fight. A recent shooting at the Bite of Seattle festival that claimed three lives, including that of a 19-year-old gunman, also confirms a disturbing trend: firearms have become frighteningly accessible to young people, while conflicts that often begin in schools escalate into shootouts. Law enforcement officers are increasingly confiscating so-called “switches” from teenagers—devices that convert a semiautomatic pistol into a fully automatic weapon, making an already dangerous firearm even more lethal. One such switch was recovered after the Bite of Seattle shooting.

In this context, the mayor’s appearance alongside a rapper whose work, to put it mildly, romanticizes criminal culture looks at least ambiguous. Although Wilson’s representatives insist that the dance did not constitute an endorsement of Y2K’s content and that the mayor herself learned about it only that evening, critics reasonably point out that the incident creates a dangerous precedent. The Y2K episode is also notable because he performed at Cleveland High School during its end-of-year celebration. The school district confirmed this, noting that the performance was free and well received, but declined to comment on the content of his songs’ references to weapons. The case raises an important question about how carefully authorities and educational institutions assess those who become role models for young people—especially in a city that spends millions of dollars on violence-prevention programs. In her article for MyNorthwest.com, journalist Gillian Raftery emphasizes that the Wilson administration has already allocated tens of millions of dollars to combat violence, but the dance video raises doubts about whether its stated goals align with its actual actions.

The incident itself became a litmus test for a public that wants to see in its mayor not merely someone capable of having fun in public, but also a politician with an impeccable reputation who understands all the nuances of youth culture. Wilson’s supporters might argue that her appearance at the match was an attempt to build connections with different communities and show that the authorities are not detached from ordinary people. But as the comments demonstrate, many Seattle residents see the attempt as evidence of a failure to understand the depth of the problem and a lack of respect for the victims’ memories. In a city where parents are afraid to send their children to school and churches and community centers are trying to stem the tide of bloodshed, any careless gesture by a public figure is perceived particularly sharply. And although the “impromptu boogie” is unlikely to lead to an immediate recall of the mayor, it has become a vivid reminder that in politics, as in life, it is sometimes better to measure seven times before dancing to a song with a questionable reputation.

Speeding Toward Zero: Seattle Mayor’s New Road Safety Directive

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson has signed an executive order intended to accelerate the city’s Vision Zero program, whose goal is to eliminate all traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2030. The move comes after a decade of insufficiently effective work during which, despite ambitious promises, the city’s most dangerous streets have barely changed. The signing ceremony took place outside Cleveland High School, next to one of the pedestrian-safety projects under construction—a symbolic location underscoring the priority of protecting children and families ahead of the new school year.

The essence of the new order is a radical acceleration of bureaucratic and construction processes. Instead of lengthy approvals and phased funding, the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) is being directly instructed to fast-track work on key corridors where crash statistics remain alarmingly high. City Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck, speaking at the ceremony, emphasized the moral dimension of the problem: “Ten years ago, we set a goal: zero deaths and serious injuries by 2030. That goal was right. But too many of our neighbors are already gone—and every one of those deaths was preventable.” Her words reflect growing public impatience among residents who are tired of reports and waiting for concrete changes.

Activists and experts attending the event pointed to a systemic problem: since Vision Zero was launched in 2015, the list of the most dangerous locations has barely changed. Gordon Padelford, executive director of the Seattle Streets Alliance, cited sobering statistics: “Eighty percent of pedestrian deaths occur on multilane arterials.” He identified five major deadly streets: Aurora Avenue North, Rainier Avenue South, Fourth Avenue South, Lake City Way Northeast, and Martin Luther King Jr. Way South. The new order gives SDOT a mandate to intervene on an expedited basis along these corridors, where high speeds and heavy traffic create deadly risks.

In addition to infrastructure projects such as narrowing roadways and improving traffic signals, the order emphasizes fast, low-cost solutions. Clara Cantor, a community organizer, proposed specific measures that could be implemented within weeks: installing planters, bicycle racks, and concrete bollards in intersection areas. “This would prevent illegal parking, force drivers to slow down when turning, improve visibility for pedestrians, and provide space for scooter parking without cluttering sidewalks,” she explained. Activists say this approach creates a “triple win”: improving safety, accessibility, and the appearance of the urban environment without requiring major construction.

The new strategy places particular emphasis on school zones and the routes children take to school. The pilot project near Cleveland High School is only the first step. City officials plan to use the experience to replicate similar solutions in other neighborhoods with educational institutions. Wilson and her team stress that the order is not merely a declaration of intent but an operational document requiring departments to report on progress every quarter.

Despite the optimism, however, experts urge caution. A decade of experience shows that even when there is political will, funding and bureaucratic delays remain the main obstacles. Critics note that without revising the city budget to prioritize safety funding, the order risks becoming little more than a well-intentioned wish. Nevertheless, the public acknowledgment that previous measures have been ineffective, combined with a shift toward concrete action on the most problematic arteries, offers grounds for cautious optimism. As one ceremony participant put it, “We cannot bring back those who died, but we have an obligation to ensure their deaths were not in vain.” The only question is whether the city can move fast enough to outrun its own statistics. More about the event and the public response can be found in the original KOMO News report.

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Censorship Fallout: Seattle Times Columnist Challenges the Editorial Desk

Sports columnist Matt Calkins resigned from The Seattle Times after his column defending women’s sports was rejected. He accused the editorial department of suppressing uncomfortable viewpoints. The incident exposed a deep conflict between editorial policy and free speech, sparking a heated debate about the boundaries of acceptable journalism in the United States.

Resigning on Principle: Seattle Times Columnist Quits After Women’s Sports Article Is Blocked

Matt Calkins, who worked as a sports columnist at The Seattle Times for 11 years, publicly announced his resignation, saying the editorial department had systematically “killed” columns that did not fit its ideological line. The final straw was an article about female athletes opposing the participation of biological males in women’s competitions. The piece was put on hold and ultimately rejected after six days of deliberations. In an interview on “The Jake and Spike Show” on KIRO Newsradio, Calkins said his article, which supported the positions of basketball player Sophie Cunningham and Washington student Frances Staudt, was actually an attempt to encourage a civil dialogue rather than escalate the conflict. However, he said, the editors had never intended to publish it and were simply “looking for a reason” to reject it.

Calkins stressed that this was not an isolated incident. The newspaper had previously rejected his column questioning the fairness of the U.S. women’s national soccer team’s demands for equal pay, as well as an article about a Black basketball coach who urged people not to stereotype police officers after George Floyd’s death. In his view, The Seattle Times tolerates the intersection of sports and politics only when it fits a left-liberal agenda, while any alternative views—even centrist ones—are treated as a threat. The newspaper has not yet issued an official response to the accusations, although representatives of the publication typically emphasize their commitment to independent journalism.

Calkins admitted that he experienced a brief sense of euphoria after resigning, which quickly gave way to panic about the uncertainty ahead. However, the wave of support he received from people on both the left and the right convinced him that he had made the right decision. Show hosts Jake Skorheim and Spike O’Neill supported Calkins, calling the situation a “dark stain” on the publication’s reputation. Spike, who is the father of a transgender young person but shares Calkins’s views on fairness in women’s sports, said the controversy was not really about one specific article. Rather, he argued, it reflected The Seattle Times’ unwillingness to acknowledge that other perspectives exist and matter to readers. In his view, the newspaper was showing a lack of trust in its own audience by assuming that readers could not engage with a complex debate. Jake, meanwhile, described Calkins’s decision as an act of “courage of conviction,” saying he chose to lose his job rather than surrender his voice.

The situation raises a longstanding question about the limits of editorial freedom and censorship in the American media. On the one hand, every publication has the right to shape its own agenda. On the other, systematically rejecting material that does not align with the official line turns an editorial department from a forum for ideas into a propaganda tool. For readers, this means a gradual impoverishment of the information landscape: they stop encountering opposing arguments and begin living in a “bubble” of views that merely confirm their own beliefs. This is particularly dangerous in sports, where questions of fairness and equality are at stake. Calkins’s resignation became a rare public glimpse into the inner workings of a major newspaper and may encourage other journalists to reconsider their own compromises with editorial policy. It remains unclear whether Calkins will find a new platform, but his story has already become a symbol of the struggle to speak the truth even when doing so is uncomfortable for those in charge. He discussed the details in an interview, which he described as the “best possible scenario” for him after leaving the paper.

“Freedom of Speech in the Newsroom”: Seattle Times Departure Sparks Heated Debate

Sports columnist Matt Calkins, who worked at the Seattle Times for 11 years, unexpectedly left the publication after his column about biological males in women’s sports was not published. The story quickly gained traction on social media, once again raising questions about the boundaries of editorial control and freedom of expression. In a conversation with KOMO News, Calkins admitted that although he was disappointed, he did not feel angry toward his former employers. He said he did not know how he would have handled the situation if he had been in their position. The idea for the column came from a rally held outside a game between the Seattle Storm and the Indiana Fever in late July, where fans supported Fever player Sophie Cunningham, who has openly opposed the participation of transgender athletes in women’s competitions.

Calkins, whose position aligns with that of the girls, stressed that he does not consider this viewpoint transphobic, but rather a call for an honest and sensitive dialogue. One of the subjects of his unpublished article was 17-year-old Frances Staudt from the Tumwater School District, who described feeling uncomfortable using a locker room alongside a biological male. According to the girl, her complaint to the school administration led to no action, prompting her to campaign actively for the protection of women’s sports in Washington state. Despite being upset by what happened, Staudt said she was glad the incident had drawn attention to the issue.

The editorial department justified its decision not to publish the article by claiming that Calkins had failed to notify editors about the topic in advance. However, journalism experts have questioned the credibility of that explanation. Douglas Underwood, a journalism professor at the University of Washington and a former Seattle Times employee, expressed regret that the column was not published alongside an opposing viewpoint, particularly with a November referendum approaching on Initiative 638, which would restrict transgender participation on girls’ school teams. Underwood noted that the issue involves many important arguments on both sides and that the newspaper could have given citizens a complete picture—especially since the column clearly presented the author’s personal opinion rather than the publication’s position, which is normally standard practice for sports columnists. An interview with KOMO News notes that the Seattle Times press office declined to comment, citing its policy of not discussing personnel matters.

The incident was only the tip of the iceberg in a broader public debate. On one hand, it illustrates the tension between editorial departments’ desire to avoid controversial subjects and journalists’ right to express their own opinions. On the other, it exposes the real concerns of female athletes who feel vulnerable and unheard in this situation. Initiative 638, which is going to a vote, promises to become one of the most contentious measures in the state, and the departure of an experienced columnist like Calkins will likely only intensify the polarization.

It is telling that the story gained such wide attention largely because it spread virally online, demonstrating the high level of public engagement with the issue. Even if procedural violations were the formal reason for the dismissal, many observers see it as a sign that editorial departments are increasingly choosing to avoid uncomfortable topics out of fear of public reaction. Yet, as Professor Underwood rightly observed, it is vital to democracy that citizens be able to hear different voices—especially on difficult questions for which there are no simple answers.

After 11 Years: Seattle Times Columnist Explains Why He Quit Over Censorship

Veteran sports columnist Matt Calkins, who worked at the Seattle Times for more than a decade, unexpectedly resigned after the editorial department rejected his column defending women’s sports. The story attracted widespread attention because it concerns one of the most polarizing issues in contemporary America: the participation of transgender athletes in women’s competitions. Calkins’s resignation statement quickly spread across the media. He said his article was not merely left unpublished but was effectively “buried” because of fear of activists and public pressure.

In his farewell article, which he posted on his own Substack channel, the journalist reconstructed the chronology of events in detail. In late July, he attended a rally supporting basketball player Sophie Cunningham outside Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle. The Indiana Fever athlete had openly opposed the participation of biological males in women’s sports, and several dozen people gathered to thank her for her courage. Among them was 16-year-old Annalie Wilson, who held a sign thanking Cunningham. In eighth grade, Wilson had lost a race to a biological male at a track-and-field competition. Another schoolgirl, Frances Staudt, stood nearby and described facing daily abuse after refusing to play basketball against a boy. Both girls emphasized that they were not transphobic but were defending biological women’s right to fair competition.

This was precisely the nuance Calkins wanted to convey in his column: supporting sex-segregated sports does not mean hating transgender people. He sent a draft to his editor on Friday and was told that the piece was under review but would not be ready for the Sunday edition. On Monday, he received an email saying that the managing editor wanted to discuss the article with two senior news editors. On Thursday, he was informed of the decision: the column would not be published because he had allegedly failed to give advance notice. Calkins considered this an excuse. If the problem had been procedural, he argued, the article would have been rejected immediately rather than passed through the editorial chain for several days.

The journalist acknowledged that this was not the first column of his to be rejected. Earlier pieces had addressed equal pay for members of the U.S. women’s soccer team, cancel culture in sports, and the reaction to George Floyd’s death, in which he urged readers to listen to a Black coach who warned against stereotyping police officers. What these articles had in common, he said, was that they ran counter to dominant narratives in the news department and could provoke the anger of an “outraged mob” on social media. Calkins emphasized that he considers it a columnist’s direct responsibility to provoke discussion of the most difficult issues, and that avoiding such stories deprives readers.

His decision to resign was not spontaneous but had been considered in advance. He said he had been prepared for such an outcome. At the same time, he expressed gratitude for his 11 years at the paper, noting the talent of his colleagues and the freedom he had enjoyed when covering other subjects. He understood management’s position: “the mob is frightening and it does not forget,” and many people had already given in after activist attacks. However, a quotation attributed to Albus Dumbledore about choosing between what is right and what is easy became decisive for him. Calkins openly admitted that he was frightened—he did not know what the coming months and years would bring—but that fear was still preferable to the humiliation of being forced into silence.

In the article, he mentioned that during the game between the Storm and the Fever, one of the team’s co-owners allegedly swore harshly at the underage Wilson, which prompted him to write the piece. He also included a direct link to the blocked column for readers who wanted to see the original. In the context of the story, it is worth explaining that Climate Pledge Arena is a modern multipurpose venue in Seattle that hosts games played by the women’s basketball team Storm and the hockey club Kraken. Sophie Cunningham’s position, which supporters at the rally backed, forms part of a broader debate over the policies of the NCAA and other sports organizations regarding transgender athletes’ eligibility to compete. It is also important to understand that Substack is a platform for independent writers, where the journalist now plans to continue his work without fear of editorial censorship.

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Art as an Effective Tool for Supporting Mental Health

The author recalls seeing a person lying on a sidewalk in New York several decades ago and asking her sister whether they should call for help. Her sister replied that such things happened constantly and that it was impossible to stop for everyone. Today, similar scenes have become familiar to the author in Seattle—on the way to work, the gym or the store.

The safety and health of people on the streets are often linked exclusively to homelessness, even though the causes of the crisis run much deeper. According to the University of Washington’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, nearly one-quarter of the state’s residents experience mental illness or addiction at some point in their lives. People living below the poverty line report severe psychological distress 70% more often than more affluent residents.

The state lacks sufficient access to care because of high housing and living costs, shortages of specialists and treatment beds, problems with health insurance and lengthy waitlists. Seattle’s regional homelessness crisis adds further pressure: mental illness and addiction are often combined with a lack of stable housing.

The health care system is overburdened, while social institutions have been weakened by funding cuts and growing needs. The author believes the crisis requires new, evidence-based and accessible solutions. Art classes could be one of them—not as a luxury, but as part of care and recovery.

For 13 years, the author has worked at the Seattle nonprofit Path with Art. The organization offers free classes in painting, ceramics, writing, theater, music and photography to people who have experienced trauma, mental health crises or behavioral health conditions. More than 50 professional instructors serve approximately 2,000 participants and families each year, referred by health care providers, housing organizations and social services.

Path with Art serves as an additional resource, not a replacement for treatment or housing. Social workers, medical facilities, homeless-service providers and other partners refer people to the organization who may benefit from creative activities. Participants gain a safe community, regular practice and support that help strengthen social connections and everyday resilience.

The programs are intended, among others, for veterans, people recovering from gender-based violence and those returning to society after incarceration. The organization is able to reach so many participants through grants, donations and partnerships, as well as through the work of artists and nonprofit staff. Classes take place in community and partner spaces, reducing rental costs, while the group format allows many people to receive support at the same time.

A study published in the peer-reviewed journal Health Promotion Practice in collaboration with the Arts + Mind Lab at Johns Hopkins University found nearly a 90% improvement in participants’ mental health, along with a similar increase in their confidence in their ability to move forward.

One participant had previously worked as a massage therapist and successfully operated her own practice, but bipolar disorder destroyed her career and housing. She was admitted to psychiatric hospitals 26 times and lived in tent encampments and shelters. At 54, she saw an announcement at her clinic for a free art class. That class marked the beginning of seven years with Path with Art—and seven years without a single hospitalization.

She says resilience did not appear all at once: each individual class provided benefits, gradually restoring her sense of inner stability. Her experience shows that art can become part of preventing hospitalization for people with severe mental illnesses, rather than simply a pleasant way to pass the time.

Research links creative activity to improved physiological measures, regulation of the stress response and stronger emotional resilience. In medical practice, art activities have also been associated with less need for pain medication, shorter hospital stays, lower levels of depression and reduced health care costs. In the United Kingdom, so-called “arts on prescription”—referring patients to community and creative activities—has been used since the 1990s, and the World Health Organization summarized evidence from more than 3,000 studies in 2019.

Washington officials could introduce this practice as a complement to medical and social services. A doctor or social worker could refer someone to art classes in much the same way as with social prescribing, but not instead of psychotherapy, medication or addiction treatment. This would require sustained public funding, coordinator training, information sharing that protects confidentiality and evaluation based on attendance, levels of social participation and quality of life.

The author urges Washington not to wait until other states, including Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts and Wisconsin, have fully implemented similar programs. Art will not solve every problem, but it is an accessible, scalable and relatively inexpensive tool that should be funded, studied and included in standard care for trauma and mental health conditions. In the author’s view, what is lacking now is not evidence, but the political will to recognize art as an essential part of public health.

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Based on: Art isn’t a luxury — it’s an intervention

Fire Ends the Story of a 250-Year-Old “Treaty Tree”

On Aug. 8, 80-year-old Roger Durheim traveled to the Peone Prairie, located in what is now the Spokane Valley, northwest of the city, probably near present-day Deer Park. The area lies outside the current Spokane Tribe Reservation. Durheim wanted to check on the condition of the 250-year-old pine after the Fairview Fire. Known as the “Signal Tree” or “Treaty Tree,” it stood in a grove within the nearly 1.5-square-mile burn area.

At the base of the pine, he noticed smoke, alerted firefighters to the danger and asked them to protect the historic tree. Several days later, Durheim returned and found the pine toppled. Since the late 1920s, when his grandfather Albert bought the property, the tree had been part of the family’s history. Several generations of Durheim children played near its hollow base and climbed on it.

The pine’s fall marked the end of a local landmark that had survived fires, lightning strikes and radical changes to the landscape. Its history is connected to Upper Spokane Chief Baptiste Peone, who established a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post nearby in the 1840s. It became a center of the region’s economic life and stood near Peone’s family cabin, built beside the pine that was already growing there.

According to Warren Sayler, a historian and representative of the Spokane Tribe, horse races were held near the tree, and people were buried nearby. The memory of the site was preserved through oral traditions, stories told by elders and tribal research. At the same time, the site cannot automatically be assumed to have national landmark or National Register of Historic Places status: its official protection depends on a specific registration at the state, county or tribal level.

The name “Treaty Tree” became associated with the pine after Peone raised a white flag on it, signaling the neutrality of his people during conflicts between Indigenous tribes and settlers in the 1850s and 1860s. Later, Indigenous people were forcibly relocated to reservations, and the prairies were converted into farmland, but the tree continued to grow.

The pine survived the 1908 fire that destroyed buildings on the property. In 1922, lightning struck it and another large tree about a mile away at nearly the same time. The second pine split apart and died, while the Treaty Tree escaped with a scar. Another fire about a century ago left a wide, ragged wound at its base, which partially grew over with time.

During the Fairview Fire, property owner Josh Hitchens saw video of his home and noticed the top of the pine in the background. It was later determined that firefighters had cut down the tree, considering it a serious hazard and doubting that it would survive. Before it fell, they pumped hundreds of gallons of water into it, removed hot embers from its hollow and covered the trunk with soil. But the tree continued to deteriorate and fell onto several young pines that had grown from its cones.

The fire spread rapidly across dry grain fields and forest. Eastern Washington often experiences hot, dry weather in summer, while strong winds, dry grass, stubble and brush create a continuous layer of fuel. In forests, accumulated dry branches and needles accelerate the flames. Local farmers helped firefighters by providing tractors, water tanks and other equipment, creating firebreaks and backup lines, and ensuring access to roads and water. These efforts were coordinated with official emergency services.

The fire destroyed nearly 60 structures and overwhelmed emergency services, although it was smaller than some other fires during that period. Firefighter John Eimen recalled that the situation spiraled out of control almost instantly, despite every effort to save the pine. Hitchens and Durheim acknowledged that firefighters had been working under extraordinarily difficult conditions.

Now Hitchens wants to turn the fallen trunk into a monument to peace. He is considering inviting carvers from around the world, including members of the Spokane Tribe, to create a sculpture at the site. Tribal archaeologist Bobby Rose has already shared the information with the tribal council and is awaiting a decision on possible participation or a ceremony.

Tribal representatives could hold a prayer or blessing, a memorial ceremony, a laying of flowers or tobacco, or a traditional gathering featuring stories and songs. The specific ceremony will depend on the decision of tribal elders and authorities. Surviving saplings may carry on the tree’s lineage, while its wood may preserve the memory of a pine that withstood lightning, fires, disease and damage for decades.

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Based on: 250-year-old Treaty Tree falls in Spokane fire

Seattle Seeks Cutest Pet for Charity Contest

Seattle Animal Shelter has announced the “Picture Pawfect” contest, inviting residents to submit photos of their most adorable pets. To enter, owners must upload a photo to a special website and pay a $5 entry fee. Anyone can also support their favorite contestant: one vote costs $1, and entrants automatically receive five votes.

The two pets with the most votes by Sept. 30 will be featured on the shelter’s brightly decorated vehicle for one year. The vehicle takes part in city events, educational outreach campaigns and monthly free veterinary clinics. All proceeds from the contest will support the shelter’s work, including adoption, foster care and volunteer programs; investigating more than 6,500 animal-welfare violations each year; enforcing pet-ownership and leash regulations; and providing free and low-cost medical care.

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Based on: Seattle Animal Shelter holds contest for ‘Picture Pawfect’ cutest pet

Hunger Strike Over Poor Food Ends at Tacoma ICE Detention Center

More than 140 detainees at the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma have ended a hunger strike that lasted nearly a week. They were protesting inedible and untimely meals, portions that were too small, a lack of hygiene supplies and inadequate medical care. Participants from two housing units went without food for five and six days.

After negotiations, detainees were promised a new menu, larger portions and improved food quality. However, according to activists with La Resistencia, the promised changes had still not been implemented by Thursday. Hunger-strike participants remain cautiously optimistic but doubt that the center’s operator, the private company GEO Group, will fulfill its commitments.

La Resistencia supports detainees and their families, helps document complaints, distributes information about rights, connects people with attorneys and works to draw public attention to detention conditions. In addition to hunger strikes, people held at the center can file formal complaints with ICE and the facility operator, seek medical and legal assistance, report violations to inspectors and human-rights organizations, and participate in court and administrative proceedings. However, public and collective actions may lead to pressure or disciplinary consequences, and available remedies depend on a person’s status and the facility’s internal rules.

The center, located about a mile from downtown Tacoma, holds more than 1,500 people, most of whom remain there for an indefinite period. This is the facility’s 20th hunger strike since the beginning of the year. Detainees have also reported inadequate medical care, mold in the showers, unsafe drinking water, dirty and damp laundry returned from washing, and foreign objects in their food — ranging from hair and worms to metal wire and fragments of plastic.

During the protest, Reps. Maxine Dexter and Emily Randall visited the center without prior notice. They were allowed to inspect the housing units and kitchen but not the medical wing, and they were not permitted to meet with medical staff.

The situation is unfolding amid a legal dispute between state authorities and GEO Group. Private ICE detention centers operate under federal contracts and are primarily governed by federal immigration law and ICE standards. However, they are also subject to state and local health, building, fire and labor regulations. After a law establishing health standards was passed in 2023, the company has refused to allow inspectors to conduct inspections at the center.

Local inspectors may conduct inspections within the scope of their legal authority, document violations, issue orders and impose penalties provided by law. However, they do not make immigration decisions, cannot independently release detainees and generally have no authority to exercise full oversight of federal detention procedures or alter GEO Group’s contract terms. Activists say the hunger strike demonstrates that existing oversight and accountability mechanisms are insufficient.

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Based on: Hunger strike over ‘unacceptable’ food ends at Tacoma ICE detention center

Fire at Bellevue office building injures four people

On Wednesday, Aug. 19, firefighters responded to a call at an office building in Bellevue, Washington. Three firefighters were hospitalized as a result of the incident, while another person received medical treatment. Authorities described the fire as serious, but did not provide details about its cause or the condition of those injured.

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Based on: 4 injured in fire at Bellevue office, including 3 firefighters

Seattle: Tech Rankings, Urban Violence, and Media Censorship

This digest examines Seattle’s standing as a tech hub despite record office vacancies, an alternative approach to preventing street shootings, and the controversy surrounding a Seattle Times columnist’s departure after the paper refused to publish his article.

Seattle Holds Second Place in Tech Talent Rankings, but Warning Signs Are Growing Louder

While some headlines are proclaiming that New York has overtaken Silicon Valley for the first time in the number of tech workers, a closer look at commercial real estate firm CBRE’s annual report shows that Seattle continues to hold its position as North America’s second-most important tech hub. The region, which many people associate with rain and coffee, has proved remarkably resilient: it outperformed New York, Austin, and Boston in the comprehensive ranking, trailing only the San Francisco Bay Area. Yet this achievement is no reason for complacency—the report is full of warnings that the future may not be as bright as the present.

Seattle’s secret lies not in the overall number of specialists, but in their concentration and quality. In absolute terms, the city ranks only seventh, with 213,000 tech workers, behind both New York and the Bay Area. But when CBRE factors in the density of tech workers, education levels, and salaries, the picture changes dramatically. The strongest indicator is the depth of the artificial intelligence talent pool: Seattle has 41,500 professionals with AI skills, the third-highest figure in North America, while such workers account for one in five tech professionals in the region—a share surpassed only by Silicon Valley. The technology sector represents 10.2% of total employment in the metro area, nearly twice the average across the 50 largest markets studied by CBRE.

The financial picture is equally impressive. The average tech worker in Seattle earns $190,000 a year, putting the city second only to the Bay Area, where the average is $211,000. Boston, which ranks third, trails Seattle by nearly $50,000. And while Silicon Valley contracted, losing 23,900 jobs between 2022 and 2025, Seattle added 24,500 jobs over the same period—a 13.1% increase and the fifth-largest gain among all markets. This momentum suggests that the region is not merely maintaining its position but strengthening it during a period of industry turbulence.

However, a closer look at the details makes the picture less rosy. The loudest warning signal is vacant office space. Seattle’s commercial real estate vacancy rate reached a record 28.6% in the fourth quarter of 2025, the highest figure among all 50 markets included in the report. This happened despite AI companies leasing 1.9 million square feet of office space in the region since 2023. The result is a paradox: demand for talent is rising while demand for office space is falling, pointing to structural changes in how technology companies organize their work. Perhaps the era of sprawling corporate campuses is coming to an end, with Seattle among the first places to feel the effects of this transformation.

The demographic shift is no less concerning. Seattle’s population aged 20 to 29 declined between 2019 and 2024, while the share of people in their 30s rose to the highest level among all markets. CBRE analysts see this as a troubling symptom: the region attracts experienced mid-career professionals but is failing to draw young people at the beginning of their careers. This creates a risk of a break in the talent pipeline: in a few years, there may not be enough people in junior positions, which traditionally serve as the foundation for developing the industry’s future leaders. There is, however, a counterweight to this trend—the University of Washington, whose artificial intelligence program ranks fifth in the United States according to U.S. News & World Report. It is the only university in the top five located outside the Bay Area, Boston, and Pittsburgh.

The economic cost is also becoming apparent. Maintaining a 500-employee company in Seattle costs $73.9 million a year, including salaries and rent. That makes it the third-most-expensive market, after the Bay Area ($90.6 million) and New York ($73.9 million—only $24,000 more than Seattle, an almost negligible difference at this budget level). The CBRE report emphasizes that Seattle and the Bay Area are the only two markets rated “exceptional” for engineering talent—but they are also the most expensive.

It is important to note that the employment data in the report cover 2025, so the wave of layoffs that swept through the industry during the first half of this year has not yet been reflected in the figures. CBRE itself has identified a national trend: the technology industry accounted for a record 31% of all U.S. job cuts during the first half of the year, compared with just 13% over the whole of last year. As one of the largest tech markets, Seattle will inevitably find itself at the center of this storm, and only the next report will show how resilient its second-place position proves to be. Even with all the warnings, however, the region demonstrates a rare combination of talent depth, high salaries, and educational strength that few others can match. As GeekWire notes, Seattle remains a beacon for technology professionals, but its future will depend on the city’s ability to adapt to the new realities of remote work and attract younger workers.

Between Work and a Bullet: Why Seattle Needs Mentors, Not More Patrols

The tragic shooting at the Bite of Seattle food festival late last month continues to raise questions not only about apprehending those responsible, but also about how the city can prevent similar tragedies in the future. While police search for possible accomplices and officials discuss increased security measures, one nonprofit is proposing an unexpected approach: instead of increasing the number of arrests, the city should invest in people who have not yet picked up a weapon. It is a long, painstaking process that begins well before the first shots are fired.

Community Passageways, an organization focused on preventing violence among young people, says the incident at Seattle Center—which killed three people and injured four others—is an urgent warning that at-risk young people need immediate intervention. Investigators said the shooting showed signs of being gang-related. Those suspected of involvement include a 15-year-old and a 19-year-old who died at the scene, as well as a third participant who has not yet been identified. The very young ages of those involved make the problem particularly urgent.

Dominique Davis, CEO and founder of Community Passageways, believes the answer to the question of how to prevent a repeat incident lies not in increasing police patrols or imposing harsher punishments. His organization has chosen a different path: working with people closest to the epicenter of violence and trying to change the trajectory of their lives. As Davis explains, everything begins with stabilizing basic living conditions—housing, safety, and essential needs. Only then does the team bring in mentors who help teenagers envision an alternative to street life. The approach includes field camps and retreats for the most challenging participants, where they receive daily counseling and take part in workshops designed to build life skills.

Particular attention is paid to what the organization calls “hot response.” When a shooting does occur, Community Passageways staff immediately go to the scene and to hospitals to calm victims and those around them, prevent a wave of retaliation, and stop the conflict from escalating. It is a “cool-headed” tactic at the height of emotional turmoil, when one killing can easily lead to another. But Davis’s most important—and almost revolutionary—idea is that the city has a “quick fix” capable of producing an immediate effect: creating internships and professional opportunities for young people from disadvantaged neighborhoods.

Essentially, Davis wants to show these teenagers that there is “another side of life”—offices, workshops, and studios where they can build careers instead of dying on the street. In his interview with local outlet KATU, he emphasized that providing a genuine alternative is not abstract charity but a concrete mechanism for preventing violence. As the story continues to unfold, one can only hope that the voices of nonprofit organizations will be heard by officials, because the cost of failure is the lives of young people who were not given a helping hand in time. Community Passageways’ approach clearly echoes national research showing that economic hopelessness and a lack of prospects are stronger drivers of street crime than the severity of punishment. The only question is whether the city has the political will to choose this slower but more humane path.

Editorial Censorship or Audience Protection? Seattle Times Columnist’s Exit Exposes an Age-Old Conflict

When sports columnist Matt Calkins submitted his resignation from The Seattle Times after 11 years at the paper, he probably did not expect such a reaction. Yet his story quickly became a symbol of a deeper conflict between a journalist’s freedom of expression and an editorial department’s caution about angering its audience. The essence of the dispute is simple and complicated at the same time: the columnist wanted to write about two high school athletes who oppose transgender girls’ participation in women’s competitions, but the editors refused to publish the piece. Calkins, making no effort to soften his language, called the decision “silencing a voice” and said he could no longer do his job, which he sees in part as providing a platform for uncomfortable opinions.

The story began long before his resignation. In late July, Seattle hosted a WNBA game between the local Storm and the Indiana Fever. Passions surrounding the game had little to do with basketball: fans and activists gathered to support Fever guard Sophie Cunningham, who had previously spoken out against transgender participation in women’s sports. At the rally, Calkins spoke with 16-year-old runner Anahley Wilson, who said she had already competed against a transgender athlete. He later interviewed basketball player Frances Staudt, who refused to take the court against a transgender opponent. According to the girls, Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton allegedly confronted them inside the arena and, using profanity, criticized their position. The WNBA later fined Keaton and suspended her for five games, while the club issued a formal apology. Those were the events the column was intended to examine.

Calkins says he submitted the piece to his editors on Friday and then waited six days for a decision. He was ultimately told that the column would not be published. The official reason, as he relayed it from management, was that the subject had not been disclosed in advance. The journalist calls that explanation an excuse and recalls that his earlier pieces that ran counter to the “mainstream” had also often been “spiked.” He stresses that he holds no grudge against specific individuals and understands the pressure editors work under, but believes that journalists cannot avoid controversial subjects. Notably, after leaving the paper, he published the column on his own Substack platform—a natural step in an era when many journalists are moving to independent outlets.

This story is also unfolding against a broader backdrop. In November, Washington state voters are expected to vote on Initiative IL26-638, which would effectively bar students classified as “biologically male” from participating in women’s competitions and would also require gender verification through medical documentation. Supporters call the measure a defense of fairness and safety; opponents call it discriminatory and humiliating. Calkins makes no secret of the fact that his article was not neutral: he wanted to give a voice to people whom he believes are “silenced” by mainstream media. He argued that supporting separate competitions does not necessarily mean hostility toward transgender people. In that sense, his resignation is not merely a story about one journalist and one newsroom, but a reflection of a broader public debate in which each side believes it is being silenced and that the right to speak has been monopolized by the other.

The concept of “saving women’s sports” may sound like a slogan to an uninformed reader, but behind it lies a specific legal and ethical dispute. Transgender women who have undergone hormone therapy may still retain physical advantages—including muscle mass, lung capacity, and bone density—that develop during male puberty. Opponents of their participation in women’s categories emphasize this point, speaking of “biological sex.” Transgender-rights advocates insist that excluding people from sports is stigmatizing and point to the lack of compelling evidence that transgender athletes are systematically dominating elite sports. The dispute has long since moved from the realm of sports science into politics, and every new case—whether a controversy at the Olympics or a high school game in Texas—becomes a pretext for another round of confrontation. Newspaper editors across America find themselves caught between two sides: on one hand, they want to publish opinions important to conservative audiences; on the other, they fear accusations of transphobia and the loss of more progressive readers.

Calkins’s departure raises an important question about the nature of opinion writing. Unlike a news reporter, who is expected to be objective, a columnist is someone with a point of view. The columnist’s job is to provoke dialogue and express an opinion that may not coincide with the editorial board’s position. If an editorial department begins “spiking” pieces—journalistic slang for rejecting material for publication—simply because they are controversial, the columnist becomes a mouthpiece, which contradicts the very nature of the profession. On the other hand, newspaper owners have a responsibility to their communities for the content they distribute, and every newsroom has the right to establish its own boundaries. There is nothing new about Calkins and his former bosses disagreeing over where those boundaries lie, but it is telling that the incident became public and generated such a strong response. Perhaps this is a sign that the media landscape is rapidly polarizing, and that the neutral middle—where provocative but measured pieces could once be published safely—is shrinking before our eyes. Calkins does not appear ready to stop. He says he loves writing passionately and wants to continue in the same spirit, but outside the walls of traditional newsrooms. There is nothing surprising about his independent course: when a large ship cannot choose a direction, its most impatient crew members begin rowing toward their own boats. The only question is who will ultimately end up closer to the island where honest conversations about sports and society still live.

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Seattle-Area Homeowners Face Loss-Making Sales

The article reports on possible cases in which Seattle-area residents are selling homes for less than they paid for them. It cites the city of Clyde Hill as an example. One of the state’s wealthiest communities, with a median home value of about $4.3 million, Clyde Hill nevertheless found itself on the brink of bankruptcy. The excerpt does not provide details about the scale of the losses or the reasons behind the situation.

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Based on: Have you sold your Seattle-area home at a loss?

Seattle Band Demon Hunter Sues Netflix Over Trademark

Seattle-based American band Demon Hunter has filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against Netflix over the title of the animated film “KPop Demon Hunters.” The movie follows three performers — Zoey, Rumi and Mira — who secretly hunt demons and protect their fans from a supernatural threat. The characters are voiced by Ji-young Yoo, Arden Cho and May Hong; Netflix has not yet disclosed details of its position in the case.

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Based on: Seattle-based band Demon Hunter files trademark lawsuit against Netflix

Bellevue to Get a Park Honoring Japanese American Heritage

A new public space called Isan Park will be created in downtown Bellevue to preserve and raise awareness of the city’s Japanese American history. ISAN Bellevue members Heather Trescases and Doug Ito are helping promote the project and highlight Japanese Americans’ contributions to the development of the region.

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Based on: New park will commemorate Bellevue’s Japanese American heritage

First Results from Washington College Short-Term Programs

Washington state has released its first data on graduates of short-term career-training programs offered by community and technical colleges in a range of fields. These courses help students gain in-demand skills and enter the workforce more quickly, while the published results offer insight into how effectively they support employment and career advancement. The photo shows the student union at Highline College in Des Moines, Washington.

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Based on: First look at outcomes for grads of WA short-term credential programs

Seattle mayor creates commission to speed up housing construction

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson has announced the creation of a housing construction task force and instructed city agencies to simplify permitting for a range of projects. The initiative aims to increase the housing supply and make the city more affordable for workers, entrepreneurs, teachers and other residents who are finding it increasingly difficult to afford living in Seattle.

The task force will take another look at potentially reducing the mandatory requirements of the Mandatory Housing Affordability (MHA) program. The program requires most new residential projects and some commercial developments either to include a certain share of affordable apartments or to replace that requirement with a payment. The size of the obligation depends on the neighborhood and type of project, while the funds collected go toward building and preserving housing for people with low and moderate incomes. Such apartments are generally rented at regulated rates for a set period.

Wilson’s administration had previously come close to supporting relaxed MHA requirements, hoping to stimulate construction, but abandoned the idea after objections from nonprofit organizations. In their view, the payments remain an important source of funding for affordable housing. The mayor’s office now hopes to find a compromise between advocates of faster construction and those defending the interests of the most vulnerable groups.

The need for change became especially clear after a recent downturn in construction activity. High interest rates, rising material and labor costs, and largely unchanged rents have made many new projects financially unfeasible for developers. The mayor’s administration believes it is important to determine which measures could restart construction across the city, rather than only in certain market segments.

In addition to reviewing MHA requirements, the commission will examine funding sources for family housing and apartments for people with the lowest incomes, reform of the city’s design review process, and preservation of the existing affordable housing stock. Design review involves city experts examining projects and, in some cases, review by community boards. They assess building exteriors, scale, compatibility with surrounding development and the impact on the urban environment.

City officials believe reforming this process could reduce the number of approval stages, waiting times and the amount of subsequent revisions required. This would lower developers’ costs and speed up the construction of new homes. However, a faster process could spark disputes over architectural quality, preservation of neighborhoods’ historic character and the public’s role in decision-making.

Separately, the city plans to speed up permitting for subsidized housing projects, including by appointing a special representative to help developers work with the Department of Construction.

The commission will include City Councilmember Eddie Lin, private and nonprofit developers, labor representatives, community organizations and housing-market representatives. The first recommendations are expected in February, with final recommendations due in September 2027. It remains unclear whether the meetings will be open to the public; critics already fear that prolonged discussions could once again delay action on the housing crisis.

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Based on: Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson pushes plans to spur housing construction

Trevon Diggs, Seattle Shooting and the “Mariners” Meme: Daily Digest

The day’s top stories: Trevon Diggs returns to the Seattle Seahawks determined to prove himself, police are investigating a shooting at Roxhill Park, and Mariners fans turn a humiliating 0–22 loss into a nautical meme.

“I’m Still the Best”: Trevon Diggs Introduced in Seattle and Determined to Prove It

Seattle Seahawks cornerback Trevon Diggs, who signed with the team on Wednesday, looks like a man who has been given a second chance and intends to make the most of it. A two-time Pro Bowl selection who led the NFL in interceptions in 2021 with 11 and earned All-Pro honors, he has now joined the reigning Super Bowl champions. His words sound like a challenge to himself and to a skeptical world: “I want to show that I’m still the best.” He made the statement shortly after injuries derailed his career and last season became a series of disappointments: first a concussion, then knee problems, his release by Dallas and an almost unnoticed stint in Green Bay.

Diggs’s story over the past two years is a classic example of how quickly an NFL career can change course. His peak came in 2021, when he was perhaps the league’s most dangerous cornerback, playing on the edge and intercepting passes with remarkable regularity. But then came two major knee surgeries, and his play was never quite the same. Last season, he appeared in just six games for Dallas. In October, he suffered a concussion under fairly absurd circumstances—he hit his head while trying to install a television after climbing onto a pole. Diggs does not hide the fact that his recovery was difficult both physically and psychologically, and he emphasizes that his family’s support played a crucial role. But his most important statement at the press conference was that, for the first time in a long while, he spent the offseason training rather than recovering from surgery.

“This is my first offseason when I haven’t had to rehab and could actually train,” Diggs said. “A lot of coaches poured a lot into me to help me get to where I am today.” In Seattle, he hopes not merely to return to the field but to become once again the kind of player capable of changing a game by himself. The team, for its part, needs reinforcement in the secondary: the Seahawks lost Riq Woolen in free agency, while rookie Nick Emmanwori is recovering from ankle surgery. Signing Diggs is an attempt to fill that gap, particularly given that Seattle’s defense was the league’s best last season, allowing an average of just 17.2 points per game.

Diggs’s arrival also comes against the backdrop of a controversial situation involving another cornerback, Terrion Arnold, who is facing serious legal problems. The Seahawks have agreed to a contract with him, but his status for the 2026 season is highly uncertain. Arnold is accused of arranging the kidnapping and beating of three men, and once he signs his contract, he will be placed on the league’s commissioner’s exempt list. He will be permitted to attend team meetings and receive his salary, but he will be barred from playing or practicing until the investigation is complete. To open a spot on the 90-man roster for Diggs, the club waived wide receiver Julian Hicks. The situation adds intrigue: on one hand, Seattle is signing a veteran with considerable upside; on the other, the team has a player whose NFL future is deeply uncertain.

For Diggs, this move is more than a change of teams—it is an opportunity to reunite with familiar faces. He previously played alongside cornerback Josh Jobe and defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence in Dallas, which, he said, helped him make the decision. “It was important to find a place that felt like home,” he explained. “A place where I’d have a chance to compete and play. It felt right.” In Seattle, he will join a team that not only won the Super Bowl but also retained the core of its defense and is now trying to add an experienced, motivated player. The only question is whether Diggs can regain the form that made him a star or whether his best years are behind him. For now, he is confident about the answer: “I’m going there to show that I’m still the best.”

A little context may be useful for readers who do not follow the NFL every day. The Pro Bowl is the league’s all-star game, featuring the best players from the season. All-Pro is an even more prestigious designation awarded to the best players at their positions by journalists and experts. The commissioner’s exempt list is a special status the league uses for players under investigation or facing criminal charges; they continue to receive their salaries but cannot take the field until the circumstances are resolved. As for Diggs himself, his career numbers are impressive: 71 NFL games, including the playoffs, since he was drafted in 2020, when Dallas selected him 51st overall. But none of those numbers matter now—the only thing that matters is the coming season, when he must prove that his claims of greatness are more than bravado. More about the move and its details can be found in the original article on Seattle Sports.

Brutal Attack at Roxhill Park: Seattle Police Search for Shooter

On Wednesday evening, the quiet of Seattle’s Roxhill neighborhood was shattered by gunfire. A man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds was subsequently found on the lawn of the park of the same name. According to a FOX 13 Seattle report, officers responding to an emergency call found the victim unconscious but still alive. He was immediately taken to the hospital, though his condition is considered critical. Law enforcement officials acknowledge that they currently have very few leads: there are no descriptions of suspects, motives or circumstances, and the investigation remains in its earliest stages.

Roxhill Park, located in southwestern Seattle between busy thoroughfares and residential neighborhoods, is usually popular with families and walkers. News of a shooting in such a place shocked local residents, who expressed concern about neighborhood safety on social media. Police cordoned off a significant portion of the park so crime-scene investigators could collect evidence—shell casings, blood traces and possibly footage from nearby surveillance cameras installed at intersections and private homes. It is not yet clear whether the attack was targeted or random, but the fact that the victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds suggests a high degree of aggression on the part of the attacker.

The incident is another reminder of the wave of gun violence that has swept across major American cities since the pandemic. Seattle, known for its liberal culture and relatively low level of street crime compared with other large cities, has recorded a troubling rise in armed attacks in recent years, particularly in outlying parks and recreation areas. City police statistics show that the number of shootings in public places has increased by nearly a third compared with the pre-pandemic period. Experts attribute this to economic inequality, rising homelessness and inadequate funding for social programs, though it is too early to discuss any social causes in this particular case.

The investigation is further complicated by the fact that witnesses, if there were any, have not rushed to come forward. In such situations, police typically rely on public assistance, asking residents to check dashcam footage from vehicles parked within several blocks and report any suspicious activity between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Meanwhile, the victim—whose identity has not yet been released pending notification of relatives—remains at Harborview Medical Center, Washington state’s largest trauma center and the facility where victims of gunshot wounds are typically treated. Doctors are fighting for his life but have declined to offer a prognosis.

For the local community, this is more than a crime report; it is a signal that approaches to public safety need to be reconsidered. Roxhill residents have repeatedly asked the City Council to install additional lighting and cameras in the park, but the mayor’s budget priorities have so far focused on other areas. Now that the park has become the scene of a tragedy, the issue will likely be raised with renewed urgency. Police are urging anyone with information about what happened to contact the violent-crimes unit immediately, reminding the public that even a seemingly minor detail could prove key to catching the shooter. For now, detectives are pursuing the possibility that the incident arose from a personal dispute and have not ruled out the possibility that the suspect knew the victim.

“Sailors” Against the Mariners: How Fans Turned Humiliation Into a Meme

Some losses make you want to forget that sports exist, while others are impossible to endure without a healthy dose of self-deprecation. On Wednesday night, Seattle Mariners fans suffered precisely that kind of blow: their team lost to the Milwaukee Brewers 0–22, setting the worst losing margin in franchise history. What could possibly be worse? Perhaps realizing that, amid the chaos, star outfielder Julio Rodríguez became so confused about the outs that in the eighth inning, as the Brewers scored their ninth consecutive run, he literally threw the ball into the stands, as if trying to rid himself of a reminder of the nightmare. But fans did not tear their hair out or write angry posts attacking management. Instead, they did what they do best: turned humiliation into a collective performance.

The fans’ reaction was so unexpected and creative that Seattle’s leading newspaper could not ignore it. As reported by The Seattle Times, the r/Mariners subreddit transformed overnight from a place for discussing baseball news into a forum for genuine seafarers. Tired of the pain, users decided to play on the team’s name—“mariners” means “sailors.” The pun created an entire parallel world in which, instead of discussing home-run statistics, fans debated the exploits of Magellan and Leif Erikson, and instead of pitchers, they discussed captains of ocean-going vessels.

One user began compiling a list of the “50 greatest mariners of all time,” but instead of baseball legends, suggested Magellan, Leif Erikson and Francis Drake. “Who else deserves to be on the list of the greatest mariners?” the user asked, clearly enjoying the absurdity of the situation. Another fan played along by asking about “profitable job opportunities in the Strait of Hormuz,” alluding to geopolitical tensions in the region, and wondered whether the doubling of oil workers’ salaries was connected to hidden risks. A third decided that, since the team was going down, they might as well order something from the Mariana Trench—“any kind of shrimp, giant amphipods and diatomaceous ooze.” In this atmosphere of collective madness, there was even room for a Marvel hero: Namor the Sub-Mariner, whom one fan wanted to add to a Magic: The Gathering deck. In response, another user advised not forgetting that the entire Mariners roster consisted of “sub-mariners,” hinting at the quality of the team’s play.

What is particularly notable is that this humor also has a deep psychological basis. Mariners fans are people who have spent decades watching their team hover on the edge of greatness and total collapse. Since 1977, they have reached the World Series only once—and that was in 1995, when they were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs—while also setting a record for the longest postseason drought in American sports. Over that time, fans have developed a unique defense mechanism: the ability to laugh at their own despair. In practice, that approach can help preserve mental health. Instead of arguing over whether to fire the manager or replace the general manager, they built an entire mythology from the wreckage of a 0–22 loss.

The Brewers’ blowout will become more than a statistical anomaly for the team; it will be a point of reference. There may not be a single victory in this story, but there is something more valuable: a moment when the fan base united around absurdity and made it part of its identity. Perhaps next season, when the Mariners take the field again, fans will remember this night not as the franchise’s lowest point but as a triumph of collective humor over harsh reality. And that, perhaps, is the one trophy no opponent can take away.

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Costco Prepares Its Own Medicare Advantage Plans

Costco is partnering with nonprofit insurer SCAN to enter the Medicare Advantage market—private health plans approved by the government’s Medicare program. The partners intend to offer older customers a comprehensive range of insurance products connected to services already available through Costco, including prescription drugs, vision, hearing and over-the-counter products.

Medicare Advantage, or Medicare Part C, replaces Original Medicare and combines coverage for inpatient and outpatient care provided under Parts A and B. These plans often include prescription drugs and additional services, but typically require members to see doctors within a designated network and follow the insurer’s rules. By contrast, Original Medicare generally allows patients to see any specialist nationwide who accepts Medicare. Supplemental Medigap insurance covers some deductibles and copayments under Original Medicare, but typically does not include prescription drugs and is purchased alongside the federal program.

For Costco, the move offers an opportunity to enter an industry worth roughly $500 billion and leverage the trust of millions of older shoppers. For SCAN, which has about half a million members, the partnership provides access to Costco’s large customer base. Executives from both companies say they want to make health care easier to understand and more convenient, while focusing on helping older adults stay healthy and independent.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the joint Medicare Advantage plans will initially be sold in two states, while Medicare supplemental insurance will be offered in one additional state. Together, those regions include roughly 5 million Medicare beneficiaries, although the companies have not yet announced the specific locations or launch dates.

SCAN already operates in six states, including Washington, where its plans are available to residents of Pierce, Spokane and Thurston counties. King County, where Seattle is located, is not currently part of its service area. This is due to federal approval of service regions, licensing requirements, agreements with local doctors and hospitals, and the phased expansion of its network—not because Seattle lies outside the available region.

Costco’s entry comes as insurance coverage is contracting, with major companies dropping unprofitable plans because of rising costs. For example, Humana will discontinue plans next year for roughly 600,000 people. Johns Hopkins researchers estimate that in 2026, about one in 10 Medicare Advantage members could lose their current plan and have to find a new option, creating an opportunity for Costco and SCAN to attract those customers.

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Based on: Costco to launch its own Medicare Advantage plan

Suburbs on the fringes are growing faster than Seattle

Seattle, long considered the region’s main engine of growth, increased its population by just 0.8% over the past year, while Bellevue grew by 0.2%. Meanwhile, smaller cities on the outskirts, including Stanwood and Carnation, posted growth of more than 4%. These changes reflect a nationwide “doughnut effect”: remote work is encouraging people to move from urban centers and nearby suburbs to more distant areas.

Since 2020, Black Diamond, in southeastern King County, has led the Seattle area in growth. Its population increased by 61%, or more than 2,800 people. The top five also included cities in Snohomish County: Sultan grew by 45%, Stanwood by 21%, Lake Stevens by 20% and Arlington by 18%. In some cases, sharp increases are explained not only by construction but also by the annexation of unincorporated areas. After boundaries are expanded, population, land area and the number of housing units all increase in the statistics at once. Accurate comparisons therefore require distinguishing growth within the previous boundaries from administrative changes.

By comparison, over the entire previous decade, Black Diamond grew by just 13%, while Sultan and Arlington each grew by about 11%. These cities have now nearly matched or surpassed their 2010s growth in just six years. Buyers are choosing them not necessarily because of lower prices, but for a different lifestyle: a home with a yard, proximity to mountains, forests and water, and the atmosphere of a small town.

Black Diamond is especially attractive because of its location near the Cascade Mountains and recreational areas. This proximity supports housing demand and may contribute to rising prices, particularly when supply is limited. However, environmental protections, challenging terrain and the need to safeguard water resources limit the land available for development, while building roads, sewers and public transportation becomes more expensive and contentious.

The shift to remote work has been the main factor accelerating growth. In Black Diamond, the share of people working from home rose from 8% to 25%. Official statistics likely underestimate the scale of the trend: someone who works remotely two days a week and commutes to the office three days is generally still classified as a suburban worker. But even partial remote employment makes it possible to live much farther from the city center.

Rapid growth creates serious challenges. Black Diamond, a former coal-mining town, historically had a small population and infrastructure designed for the limited needs of an industrial settlement, not for the rapid expansion of residential neighborhoods. New construction increases traffic and demand for school seats, water service, sewer systems, fire protection and other municipal services. The city is also far from major transportation corridors, so expanding roads and utility networks requires substantial funding and lengthy approvals.

Mayor John Adler said the city is generally managing well, but the arrival of thousands of residents in a short period has increased pressure on transportation, schools, infrastructure and municipal services and sparked disputes over the pace of development. Black Diamond and other fast-growing suburbs now face the challenge of balancing expansion with quality of life. Officials must build roads, schools and utility facilities in time while taking into account the city’s financial capacity, environmental constraints and the need for sustainable development.

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Based on: While Seattle slows, the region’s fastest growth is on the fringes

Debate Over Seattle Surveillance Cameras Intensifies After Shooting

Activists and cybersecurity experts said Seattle’s police surveillance system could create structural threats to security, privacy and civil liberties. At a news conference outside City Hall, members of the Community Not Cameras coalition expressed concern about the activities of Axon, whose software integrates video feeds and other data for police.

The issue centers on the Real-Time Crime Center, launched in May 2025. It collects information from dozens of cameras in densely populated neighborhoods with elevated numbers of reported crimes, along with dispatch data and 911 calls. The system helps officers analyze events and relay information to patrols. The cameras were initially installed along Aurora Avenue North, in the Chinatown–International District and downtown—areas with heavy traffic, nightlife venues, businesses and significant public-safety concerns.

The system operates on Fusus, a platform owned by Axon. Activist Phil Mocek accused the company of effectively turning city data into a commercial resource. Axon says law-enforcement agencies control access to the information and how long it is retained, while outside requests are directed to the relevant agency.

The division of authority among city entities also remains under scrutiny. City Hall typically proposes and administers the system, police determine investigative needs and data-use rules, and the City Council approves funding, may establish mandatory standards and provides oversight. Access to archived footage should be governed by city policies, warrant requirements and state law; the mere presence of cameras does not give police unlimited authority.

Critics of the system said they learned during a tour of the center that operating rules and auditing procedures remain insufficiently developed. For example, employees must manually blur the windows of private homes that fall within the cameras’ field of view. Activists also claim that staff could not clearly explain how the city would learn about an Axon request to transfer data in response to a subpoena.

Cybersecurity specialist Noah Williams said Axon gives the city only an illusion of control. According to Williams, video recordings could be transferred to the company’s cloud system without the authorities’ full knowledge, increasing the risks of hacking or access by federal agencies.

Whether such access is possible depends on Washington state law and local rules. Public-records requirements, retention and disclosure periods, city policies protecting immigrants, and the existence of a warrant or subpoena all matter. The fact that recordings may fall under public-records rules does not automatically give federal immigration authorities or other agencies the right to obtain all the data: the city may be required to refuse or limit disclosure, or to demand the procedure required by law.

The debate over camera use intensified after a shooting at Seattle Center that killed three people and injured at least four others. Representatives of business organizations and major venues, including Seafair, the Downtown Seattle Association and Climate Pledge Arena, urged Mayor Katie Wilson to return cameras to the stadium district and expand surveillance to Seattle Center.

The shooting increased pressure on City Hall and police from sports and concert venue owners, as well as business groups demanding faster expansion of video surveillance, greater data sharing and enhanced security for major events. At the same time, venue representatives must consider not only visitor safety but also limits on liability, procedures for accessing recordings and privacy-protection requirements.

Wilson has not yet supported further expansion of the system and is awaiting the results of a New York University audit. The existing cameras remain active. Police say they do not use facial recognition or automated license-plate readers, although the system can identify certain types of objects. Local recordings are stored for up to five days unless they are transferred to an evidence archive.

Critics warn that cameras may assist investigations and deter some crimes, while also intensifying constant surveillance of already vulnerable communities, increasing the risk of mistaken identification and contributing to the expansion of monitoring without sufficient transparency.

Public opinion remains mixed. A Seattle Chamber of Commerce poll of 500 registered voters found that 75% of respondents supported using cameras to investigate crimes after a 911 call. At the same time, two independent studies—by New York University and the University of Pennsylvania—are expected to assess the risks to privacy, civil rights and immigration policy, as well as investigative effectiveness and residents’ attitudes toward police video surveillance. Their results are expected in September.

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Based on: Coalition calls Seattle’s surveillance cameras ‘structurally dangerous’ - The Seattle Times

Amtrak Cascades trains return after mill demolition

Most Amtrak Cascades trains north of Portland will resume service Wednesday, and all routes will operate normally starting Thursday. Rail service between Portland and Seattle was suspended for several weeks after an Aug. 2 fire at an abandoned warehouse near Portland’s Union Station. The only train canceled Wednesday will be Route 500, which typically departs Portland for Seattle at 6:50 a.m.

While the rail line was closed, Amtrak provided replacement bus service on the route south of Seattle, including stops in Tukwila, Tacoma, Olympia, Centralia, Kelso and Vancouver. The fire-damaged building of the former Centennial Mills flour mill was demolished Monday and Tuesday after officials warned it was at risk of collapsing. On Tuesday afternoon, the company announced a timeline for restoring service, which had previously been suspended indefinitely.

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Based on: Amtrak Cascades to resume full service after mill demolition

Chelan County asks state to help restore Stehekin road

Chelan County officials have asked Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson to provide funding for emergency repairs to Company Creek Road, an important route in the remote Stehekin area. Commissioners stressed that the work must be completed before the fall rains arrive in October, as heavy precipitation could worsen the damage and make access to the community more difficult. County representatives voiced the same concerns at a meeting of the three-member commission on Aug. 11.

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Based on: Chelan County seeks state funds to repair Stehekin road before fall flooding

Sports Digest: Baseball Blunder and Record NFL Contract

A look at the main developments: a bizarre moment in the Milwaukee–Seattle game, Robles’ return to the Mariners’ lineup, and the Seahawks’ historic deal with Witherspoon.

Milwaukee Brewers vs. Seattle Mariners: Homestand Begins with a Bizarre Moment

Last night at American Family Field in Milwaukee, the Brewers opened a homestand that, according to the schedule, will last five full games. That may sound unusual, but with the team facing such a packed schedule this season, even an extended run of home games feels like a gift from the baseball gods. The Seattle Mariners were the first opponent in the series, and the game was eventful from the very beginning.

The star of the first inning was Jake Bauers, who apparently decided to make up for Bryce Turang’s four missed days not only with his play, but with plenty of drama. With two outs in the bottom of the inning, Bauers hit a ball to right field and, taking advantage of a mistake by Victor Robles, who slipped while fielding it, raced toward second base. The sprint ended with a spectacular dive, but Jake did not stop there. William Contreras immediately sent the ball into left field, and Bauers charged forward again, this time toward home plate. However, Seattle’s Randy Arozarena made an excellent throw, and it appeared that the runner would be an easy out. That was when the real comedy of errors began.

Bauers, already preparing for the tag, accidentally knocked the ball out of catcher Cal Raleigh’s glove as he fell. The player initially ran past home plate without realizing that he had not been tagged, and only Christian Yelich’s warning brought him back to reality. He had to dive a second time, and this time his hand touched the plate a fraction of a second before Raleigh finally applied the tag. The bizarre sequence gave Milwaukee its first run—and the spectators plenty of laughs.

Aside from that, the game was a classic pitchers’ duel. The Brewers sent left-hander Kyle Harrison to the mound, who entered the season with nine wins, three losses, and a respectable 3.47 ERA. His counterpart was Seattle’s Bryce Miller, who, despite a 4–6 record, had an even better ERA of 3.39. Interestingly, the two starters rely on very different styles: Harrison is known for his ability to generate movement, while Miller more often depends on velocity. Their duel promised to be an intriguing one, especially since the Brewers entered the game with baseball’s best record—77 wins and 48 losses.

As for the lineup, Turang did indeed return. Although he did not make an impact in the first inning, his presence clearly added confidence to the offense. The starting nine also included other key players: Luis Lara started in right field, while Garrett Mitchell played center. The Mariners, meanwhile, deployed Julio Rodríguez in center and Josh Naylor at first base. Rodríguez, for his part, was one of the few players capable of changing the course of the game, but on this evening fortune was clearly on the home team’s side.

The funniest part is that this game was only the first of three against Seattle in the series, after which the Brewers will continue their homestand. Dustin May is scheduled to take the mound tomorrow, while Robert Gasser will face George Kirby on Wednesday. All games can be watched on Brewers.TV or heard on AM-620 WTMJ radio. If the first inning produced that level of excitement, the rest of the series promises to be just as entertaining. As they say, in baseball you never know where you will find a win—or where you will lose your head laughing.

For those unfamiliar with the terminology: a “homestand” is a series of games a team plays at its own stadium. A “run” is a point scored by a player who reaches all four bases. A “tag” is when a fielder touches an opposing player with the ball or with a glove holding the ball to record an out. And “ERA” is the average number of runs a pitcher allows over nine innings. The lower the number, the better.

Full statistics and video of all the key moments can be found on the publication’s official website, which provided live text coverage of the game. The main takeaway, however, is already clear: the Brewers continue to move confidently toward the playoffs, and even comic episodes like Bauers’ only highlight their team spirit and willingness to fight for every inch of the field.

Robles Returns to the Lineup, but the Mariners Face a More Serious Test

Seattle finally received some good news from the injured list: Victor Robles is back in the starting lineup, while Taylor Ward is close to returning. For a team that has spent the past several weeks teetering on the edge of an offensive collapse, this is a genuine breath of fresh air. Robles’ return should be viewed not merely as a roster upgrade, but as the restoration of the spark that has been missing from the bottom of the batting order. His speed and aggressiveness on the basepaths can single-handedly turn an inning around, even when his bat is quiet. Ward, meanwhile, adds stability to the middle of the outfield and gives manager Dan Wilson more flexibility with his rotations.

Interestingly, the club has chosen not to rush Ward, allowing him to fully regain his form. That is a sensible approach, since in a long 162-game race, rushing key players back often leads to setbacks. For now, Wilson can breathe a little easier: the roster’s depth may not be luxurious, but it is no longer disastrous. Still, no one should expect Robles’ presence in the starting lineup alone to solve all of the team’s problems at the plate. Rather, it is a foundation on which Seattle must build its game in the coming series.

The Seattle Times emphasizes that Robles’ return is not merely a line in the scorecard, but a signal to the entire organization that the playoff fight continues. His style of play—constant pressure on the defense—is contagious. When Robles reaches base, opposing pitchers begin to make mistakes and infielders lose their rhythm. These are the small details that often do not show up in the statistics but determine the outcomes of tight games. If Ward returns in the same form he showed before his injury, he could stabilize a lineup that has relied on individual performers for too long. The Mariners understand, however, that relying on recovered players is not a strategy. Systematic work is needed, and that is precisely what has been missing so far.

Witherspoon’s Record Contract: How the Seahawks Fit the Historic Deal Under the Cap

The Seattle Seahawks continue to lock up their young core of stars with long-term agreements, and this time one of the league’s top cornerbacks was next in line. Devon Witherspoon’s signing of a record contract for his position not only strengthens the team’s defense for years to come, but also prompted fans and analysts to examine the numbers closely to understand how the club plans to balance its ambitions with the salary cap. The deal, completed Saturday, immediately became the biggest topic of discussion in the NFL, as it represents the largest financial commitment ever made to a cornerback.

The new contract runs for four years and, according to figures published by Over The Cap and Spotrac, will pay Witherspoon $132 million. That figure gives him the highest average annual salary among players at his position—$33 million—surpassing the previous mark set by Denzel Ward of the Cleveland Browns, who earned $31.1 million. It is important to understand, however, that this is not simply a raise, but a complicated restructuring. The player formally had two years remaining on his rookie contract, including a fifth-year option for the 2027 season worth approximately $21.2 million. Rather than wait, the club decided to rework those amounts and incorporate them into the new agreement. As a result, if all payments Witherspoon will receive over the next six seasons are combined, the total will be approximately $158.3 million, producing an average of $26.4 million per year—a more modest figure, but still an impressive one.

The most interesting aspect for fans and financial analysts is how the cap burden is distributed from year to year. Witherspoon will be under contract with the Seahawks through 2031, while his presence will remain on the books in 2032 as a “dead” year with a small bonus. The club deliberately chose what is known as backloading—raising the cap hits toward the end of the contract, when the salary cap is projected to be significantly higher. In 2026, Witherspoon will count for only $15.4 million, and that figure will dip slightly to $14.3 million the following season. Starting in 2028, however, the pressure on the budget will increase substantially: $27.15 million, followed by $27.95 million, with the payments peaking at $36.25 million in 2030 and $39.4 million in 2031. This structure gives the Seahawks financial flexibility in the short term, but it also suggests that the club may eventually have to either re-sign the player or convert part of his salary into bonuses to spread out the cap burden.

After completing the deal, Seattle had approximately $11.2 million in cap space remaining for next season. That ranks 23rd in the league and can hardly be called a comfortable cushion, especially with unresolved questions surrounding other key players. The leading candidate for an extension is three-time Pro Bowler Leonard Williams, who is entering the final year of his current contract. General manager John Schneider has repeatedly emphasized that he prefers to keep funds available for moves during the season, since the Seahawks have been active at the trade deadline over the past three years, acquiring players such as Williams himself in 2023, linebacker Ernest Jones IV in 2024, and receiver/returner Rashid Shaheed in 2025.

Signing Witherspoon is a strategic move that makes the team more attractive to free agents and sets the tone in the locker room. By committing a record $101 million in guaranteed money, the club is demonstrating the seriousness of its championship ambitions. At the same time, such an aggressive investment in one player sets a precedent: negotiations with Williams and other leaders will now take place while the Seahawks have limited short-term flexibility. History shows, however, that smart management can turn such “heavy” contracts into tools for future restructuring, using signing bonuses and spreading payments over time. For now, fans can celebrate: their star cornerback will remain in Seattle through his prime. The question of how the club will maneuver in 2030, when Witherspoon turns 30, will remain a headache for future management.

For the present, however, everything looks optimistic. Despite their limited cap space, the Seahawks still have the ability to make targeted additions, as they have in past years. The key lesson is that the modern NFL is played not only on the field but also in the numbers, and Seattle is currently demonstrating a virtuoso command of both disciplines. More details about the deal and its impact on the club’s financial policy can be found in this Seattle Sports article, which provides a full year-by-year breakdown and analyzes the team’s next steps in the transaction market.

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UW Researchers: AI Is Changing Children’s Books but Preserving Bias

While reading a children’s book to his daughter, 38-year-old Russell Zamora of western Massachusetts wondered why bears in such stories are almost always boys. His question reflects a broader problem: artificial intelligence is increasingly being used to create children’s books, but its text and illustrations can reproduce gender and other stereotypes. University of Washington researchers warn that without careful review, AI can quietly reinforce biased ideas in works intended for children.

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Based on: UW researchers say AI is coming for kids books, but it’s biased

Appeals Court Upholds DOJ Subpoena Against Clinic

A divided federal appeals court ruled that President Donald Trump’s effort to end gender-affirming medical care is not unlawful in itself and cannot serve as grounds for quashing a Justice Department subpoena. The subpoena was issued to a provider of such care for transgender adolescents in Washington state.

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Based on: Court sides with Trump over subpoena of WA gender-affirming care provider

Nikola Tesla STEM School Ranks Among the Top 10 in the U.S.

Nikola Tesla STEM School near Redmond placed in the top 10 of the national U.S. News & World Report rankings. The published excerpt also mentions Raisbeck Aviation High School in Tukwila, where upperclassmen presented ideas for replacing the overcrowded waiting area for people picking up passengers at SeaTac Airport. The provided material contains no information about Raisbeck Aviation’s exact ranking or the project’s details.

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Based on: Nikola Tesla STEM High near Redmond in Top 10 in U.S. News ranking

Crews begin removing collapsed tank in Longview

Work has begun at Nippon Dynawave Packaging in Longview to dismantle a tank that collapsed several months ago. Eleven workers were killed in the accident in May. New aerial photographs taken July 11, 2026, show the condition of the site and the removal work underway. According to preliminary information, the tank, which was filled with a chemical liquid, suddenly collapsed; however, the material presented here does not provide details about the cause of the incident.

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Based on: Crews in Longview begin removing failed tank months after disaster

Scandals and Cameras: Seattle at a Crossroads of Safety and Privacy

Seattle is facing two major conflicts at once: a diversion program has been accused of falsifying statistics that undermine confidence in criminal justice reform, while the city’s surveillance camera network has become the focus of a battle between supporters of public safety and privacy advocates. Polls show that 75% of residents support the cameras, but activists warn of the risks of transferring data to private corporations. City officials are awaiting the results of independent audits that will determine the future of the controversial initiatives.

Washington’s diversion program faces allegations of falsified data

On Monday, August 17, the evening news program Seattle News Tonight on FOX 13 Seattle raised serious questions about a Washington state program designed to divert people with mental health and substance-use disorders away from jail and into treatment and support services. As reported in the station’s segment, the initiative, which was intended to provide a humane alternative to criminal prosecution, is now itself under scrutiny. Critics accuse it of using inaccurate and possibly deliberately distorted statistical data.

The central criticism is that the data used by officials to evaluate the program’s effectiveness and decide whether to expand it do not reflect reality. Reported success rates may be inflated or presented in a way that creates the impression that the program is performing better than it actually is. This is a serious blow to public trust, because the program affects people who might otherwise receive help but remain in the criminal justice system because of unreliable statistics.

The program in question is a so-called diversion mechanism, in which suspects or defendants with mental illnesses are sent not to prison but to specialized centers where they receive treatment and rehabilitation. The logic behind the policy is straightforward and progressive: a crime committed during psychosis or severe addiction is primarily a medical problem, not purely a criminal one. But if data on how many people actually complete treatment and avoid reoffending are collected inaccurately, the effectiveness of the entire system is called into question. Officials may have counted only those who successfully completed the program while ignoring those who dropped out, absconded or were removed. Recidivism rates may also have been understated to make the program appear more successful amid requests for additional funding.

The situation is especially serious because such initiatives are funded by taxpayers, and every figure presented by officials affects how money is allocated. If the data are unreliable, this undermines not only the specific program but also the broader idea of criminal justice reform. Critics are already calling for an independent audit of all statistical reporting and for interim results to be published with explanations of the data-collection methods. Otherwise, they warn, policymakers risk building decisions on shaky foundations, ultimately harming the vulnerable groups the program was designed to help.

State officials have not yet provided detailed comments, limiting themselves to promises to “look into the matter” and “clarify the methodology.” But amid growing public concern over domestic violence, drug addiction and homelessness—issues that are closely intertwined in Seattle—any careless statement could trigger even harsher criticism. The situation is developing, and it appears that the matter cannot be resolved without a thorough review of every stage, from the initial collection of information to the final report. FOX 13 journalists will continue to follow the story, and official responses—and possibly revised figures—are likely to emerge in the coming weeks. Those figures may either confirm the concerns or dispel them. For now, however, one thing is clear: trust in the data used by government is the foundation of any social reform, and that foundation appears to have cracked.

The city at a crossroads: Who really controls Seattle’s street cameras?

Seattle is embroiled in a serious dispute over the city’s surveillance system, one that has gone far beyond ordinary debates about privacy. A coalition of activists calling itself “Community Not Cameras” issued a forceful statement describing the existing surveillance system as “structurally dangerous.” The concern is not only about the cameras monitoring residents in the city’s highest-crime areas, but also about the company behind the technology and the long-term security of the data being collected.

The main criticism is that the police Real-Time Crime Center, launched in May 2025, runs on Fusus software from Axon. The tool combines feeds from dozens of street cameras, 911 call data and information about patrol movements in a single interface. For police, it is a powerful tool for responding quickly to incidents. For critics, however, it is a step toward creating a comprehensive surveillance system in which a private corporation becomes a key player. Activist Phil Moczyk said bluntly that Axon is not an equipment manufacturer but a “data broker,” arguing that the city is effectively selling public information to a private entity.

Particular concern surrounds control of the information after it is transferred to Axon’s cloud systems. During a tour for activists, center employees appeared not always to understand the procedures themselves. For example, when asked how the city would know if Axon received a subpoena from government authorities demanding the data, the response was uncertain. The situation is further complicated by the fact that staff must manually “blur” camera views that capture private residences, while auditing mechanisms remain limited. Cybersecurity engineer Noah Williams believes Axon creates only an “illusion of control”: the company could transfer feeds to its own cloud storage without notifying the city, meaning hackers or the federal government could potentially do the same. Axon counters that agencies manage their own data, retention periods and access controls, and that any requests from third parties are directed straight to the police.

Seattle’s camera controversy has become a political trap for Mayor Katie Wilson. During the first seven months of her administration, she turned off cameras in the stadium district, then switched them on for the FIFA World Cup and later turned them off again. Following a recent shooting at the Bite of Seattle food festival that killed three people and injured at least four others, organizers of major city events, including Seafair and Climate Pledge Arena, openly demanded that the cameras be restored and their use expanded. The public, meanwhile, is divided. A poll conducted by the Seattle Chamber of Commerce found that 75% of 500 surveyed voters supported using cameras to investigate crimes following a 911 call. Activists, however, call arguments about increased clearance rates “insincere” and point to the lack of clear policies even among the center’s own employees. In the system’s defense, it does not use facial-recognition technology, and video is stored locally for only five days before being deleted or classified as evidence.

The situation vividly illustrates a fundamental contradiction of the modern digital world: cities want to use technology to fight crime, but they also risk handing unprecedented power over citizens’ personal information to corporations and the government. While lawmakers and the public debate the moral dimensions of the issue, technical details—cloud storage, third-party access and inadequate oversight—remain largely out of view. The program’s ultimate fate depends on two independent reviews. One, commissioned by the mayor’s office and conducted by New York University, will examine risks to privacy and civil rights. The second, overseen by the inspector general, will assess police performance and residents’ perceptions of the program. The results are expected in September. As explained in The Seattle Times, the reports could prove decisive: they may either affirm American cities’ authority to conduct comprehensive video surveillance or force a reconsideration of a model in which key cyber-physical systems are controlled by a single commercial company.

Poll finds Seattle residents support surveillance cameras despite activists’ protests

Seattle is seeing a new escalation in a long-running dispute between supporters of stronger public safety measures and defenders of civil liberties. According to a recent poll commissioned by the Seattle Chamber of Commerce, most city residents support using surveillance cameras in certain law-enforcement situations. The findings have nevertheless intensified the debate, as opponents of expanding the city’s surveillance network point to a lack of transparency and clear privacy protections.

The poll, conducted last week, produced striking figures: 75% of respondents supported using surveillance cameras in response to emergency calls to 911, while 74% approved of installing cameras near major event venues such as Seattle Center and the stadium districts. Notably, the poll’s organizers deliberately did not ask about placing cameras in residential neighborhoods, a decision that itself reflects the sensitivity of the issue. Chamber President Joe Nguyen said the results showed that ordinary residents who want their children to be safe clearly want more tools to protect public order. He added that, after eight months of Mayor Katie Wilson’s administration, the chamber decided to clarify public sentiment, which he said was unequivocally in favor of additional measures.

On Monday, however, activists from the “Community Not Cameras” coalition visited the city’s Real-Time Crime Center, where video feeds from across the municipal network converge, and left even more concerned. Coalition member and software engineer Moczyk said that during the tour, center representatives repeatedly emphasized public safety while barely addressing privacy. He said activists asked specific questions about which actions involving cameras or automated license-plate readers were prohibited by city policy and which were technically impossible. According to him, they never received clear answers: officials either responded evasively or said the matter was “covered by policy.” Cybersecurity expert AJ Randall added that the coalition was particularly concerned by the lack of answers about how city rules prevent police abuses similar to those reported in other states. He questioned whether a comprehensive monitoring and auditing system exists to guarantee that the technology is used strictly for lawful purposes.

The dispute has gained renewed force following a recent shooting in the Pioneer Square neighborhood after a Seahawks game. Cameras connected to the monitoring center are installed in the area, but they are currently turned off. They were operating during the recent World Cup, but Mayor Katie Wilson later ordered them shut down while awaiting the results of an audit on civil liberties and privacy. Joe Nguyen criticized the decision, saying the city needs leadership on the issue because residents want to see that their leaders have the tools necessary to do their jobs effectively.

Mayor Wilson, who promised during her campaign to address privacy concerns, has maintained a cautious position. In response to the Pioneer Square incident, her office cited the ongoing independent audit of the surveillance system that the city commissioned earlier this year. A city spokesperson said all residents deserve to feel safe, but added that the interests of different communities must also be considered—from businesses struggling with crime to immigrants, LGBTQ+ people and those seeking reproductive healthcare. Officials have promised that the audit’s findings, which will assess how camera data are collected, stored and shared, will be released this fall and will guide future decisions.

Seattle’s situation reflects a nationwide trend in which cities are trying to balance the use of technology to combat crime with the protection of civil rights. So far, that balance appears to remain out of reach.

For clarity, a real-time crime center is a system that collects and analyzes video from street cameras as well as data from automated license-plate readers (ALPRs), which record passing vehicles and compare them with databases. The poll results and activists’ response were described in a report by the local news outlet KIRO7. The release of the audit results is expected to be a pivotal moment that will determine whether the cameras are switched back on and what new rules governing their use are adopted in the city.

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Wealthy Seattle Neighborhoods Demand Taxpayers Pay for Their Cables

Residents of Seattle’s affluent neighborhoods, who asked in the 1960s to have power lines buried underground for aesthetic reasons, are now demanding that the city pay for a $2 billion replacement of the aging cables. Host Gee Scott called it an example of “privatizing the benefits and socializing the losses,” while co-host Ursula Reutin proposed introducing a special assessment for those responsible for the problem. Meanwhile, the Seattle Mariners are continuing their playoff push thanks to their dominance over Houston, while the Milwaukee Brewers prepare for a series against the desperate Mariners.

“The Bill Has Come Due”: Wealthy Seattle Neighborhoods Ask the City to Pay for Their $2 Billion Problem

More than 60 years ago, residents of Seattle’s most prestigious neighborhoods asked the city to bury power lines so they would not have to look at poles and wires. Now the cables are deteriorating, and replacing them could cost $2 billion. KIRO host Gee Scott sees this as a classic example of private benefits becoming public problems. In his view, decisions made in the 1960s for aesthetic reasons are now hitting the pockets of all the city’s taxpayers, including people who were not even allowed to live in those neighborhoods at the time.

In the 1960s, residents of neighborhoods such as Laurelhurst, Madison Park, Magnolia, and Queen Anne collectively approached the city with a request to bury the electrical lines. The cables were laid directly in Seattle’s damp soil without protective conduits, which seemed like an economical solution at the time. Six decades later, the cables are deteriorating, causing prolonged and recurring power outages. Seattle City Light estimates that replacing all 330 miles of aging underground cable would cost $2 billion, and those expenses will likely fall on all customers through higher rates. According to The Seattle Times, about 8,000 properties in nearly 50 districts received underground lines in less than 10 years after neighbors persuaded one another to participate. Notably, once 50% of residents approved the project, participation became mandatory, which, according to a 1980 analysis, created class divisions between wealthier and less affluent residents within the same neighborhoods.

Gee Scott draws a parallel with bank bailouts, in which profits remain private while losses are socialized. “It’s interesting: when they’re making money, they privatize those benefits, and the wealthy neighborhoods get their advantages—‘We worked hard; all the money goes to us.’ But when something goes wrong, suddenly you want to socialize the assistance,” the host quipped. He added that some of the people now being asked to help pay the bill were once prohibited from living in those neighborhoods. However, Scott does not intend to use the case as an attack, emphasizing that both rich and poor may need help and calling for solidarity, although he plans to keep this story “on the receipt” as a reminder in future debates about social assistance.

His co-host, Ursula Reutin, suggests a simpler solution: if underground cables benefit specific neighborhoods, those neighborhoods should pay for the repairs. “If you live in Laurelhurst, Magnolia, Queen Anne, or Madison Park and enjoy the benefits of buried lines, why not impose a special assessment on your neighborhood to pay for what directly benefits you?” Reutin asks. She notes that home prices in these areas reach into the millions and wonders why residents of South Seattle should subsidize the aesthetic preferences of affluent neighbors.

The issue is not only the technical deterioration of infrastructure but also social equity. A historic decision made half a century ago to improve the appeal of elite neighborhoods and increase property values now requires collective funding—even though the benefits are enjoyed primarily by owners of expensive homes. Seattle’s median home price has already surpassed $900,000, and it is significantly higher in the neighborhoods mentioned above. This creates a precedent in which public resources are directed toward solving problems created by private interests, raising a legitimate question about how the city should distribute the costs of aging infrastructure. The situation also highlights the importance of considering long-term consequences when making decisions about modernizing urban utilities—especially in a wet climate, where the lack of protective conduits proved to be a fatal mistake.

Mariners’ Playoff Hopes Stay Alive Thanks to the Astros

The season has been difficult for the Seattle Mariners, and without two key factors, the team might have abandoned its postseason hopes long ago. Those factors are an impressive eight-game winning streak that began in late May and a phenomenal head-to-head record against its major rival, the Houston Astros. Together, they allow the Seattle club to cling to its playoff chances despite a discouraging overall record.

After Sunday’s 3–2 victory over the Astros in Houston, the Mariners improved their season record against them to an impressive 9–2. And it is not just about the numbers: the team displayed the kind of quality baseball that fans had not seen in months. Aside from a frustrating extra-inning loss on Friday, Seattle completely dominated in Houston. An offense that had been dormant for a long time came alive, averaging 9.64 hits and 6.43 runs per nine innings over the series. Pitchers Emerson Hancock and Bryan Woo delivered brilliant performances, something that cannot be said about the starting rotation as a whole, particularly in recent road games. It was the Mariners’ best baseball since June 29 through July 5, when the team held a one-and-a-half-game lead in its division.

However, between that successful stretch and Saturday’s victory in Houston, the Mariners suffered a complete collapse, winning only 10 of 32 games. As a result, the team’s overall record is now far from impressive: 59–66, seven games below .500. Even so, thanks to a few bright spots—especially their dominance over the Astros—Seattle continues to hang on in the American League playoff picture, which this year is crowded with teams that would barely qualify as contenders in any other season. As of Monday, the Mariners were only 2.5 games behind the third and final wild-card spot, held by the Baltimore Orioles at 61–63. Notably, Seattle is just one of six teams within close range of the Orioles, meaning that seven teams with losing records are involved in the playoff race. The race promises to be extremely complicated and possibly incredibly entertaining.

It is equally surprising that the Mariners are not far from the top of the AL West. Thanks to their series win in Houston, they reduced the gap to four games behind the Astros (63–62). The Texas Rangers (61–64) sit between them, two games behind Houston and two games ahead of Seattle. The Mariners’ success against the Astros this year is merely a continuation of a four-year trend in which Seattle has almost always beaten its main rival head-to-head. That could become a decisive factor late in the season. The team is currently navigating a difficult August stretch, but its September schedule looks much more favorable. The Mariners have 14 games against the league’s three worst teams: three against the Colorado Rockies and seven each against the Oakland Athletics and Los Angeles Angels.

Perhaps even more important is the fact that the Mariners have not finished playing the Astros. The rivals’ final two-game series will take place at the very end of the season, on September 22 and 23 at Seattle’s T-Mobile Park. Since the Mariners have already secured the season-series tiebreaker over Houston, they have a significant advantage: they only need to finish tied with the Astros in wins to move ahead of them in the standings. The current season has certainly been disappointing so far, but it is far from over. Given the situation in the division and throughout the American League, as well as their consistent success against Houston, the Mariners have every chance to leave the unpleasant memories behind and reach the playoffs in consecutive seasons for the first time in a quarter-century. All they have to do is play the remaining 37 games the way they played the series in Houston. A Seattle Sports article emphasizes that the team’s fate is in its own hands.

Milwaukee Brewers vs. Seattle Mariners: A Clash of Ambition and Frustration

In the middle of the August playoff race, the Milwaukee Brewers return home to host the Seattle Mariners in a three-game series that promises to be an intriguing matchup between two teams with completely different fortunes this season. While the Brewers comfortably lead the league with the best win-loss record, the Mariners are desperately clinging to faint wild-card hopes in a weak American League.

The Brewers return home after a challenging road trip along the West Coast, where they showed resilience by recovering from a crushing sweep at the hands of the Padres and winning three of four games against the powerful Dodgers. That speaks to the team’s mental toughness and its refusal to let setbacks derail it. Seattle, meanwhile, has just won its first series since the trade deadline, defeating the Houston Astros on the road. The victory, modest though it was, gave Mariners fans reason for cautious optimism, although the team remains just outside the playoff picture.

The teams’ offensive potential differs dramatically. Milwaukee can boast of Jake Bauers, who is enjoying the best season of his career, posting outstanding numbers and leading the team in home runs. Young, ambitious players such as Jackson Chourio and Brice Turang are also contributing effectively. William Contreras deserves particular attention, as he finally appears to be emerging from a prolonged slump, while Joey Ortiz has become one of the league’s best hitters over the past month or more. Christian Yelich, meanwhile, appears to have been the victim of bad luck, with his batting average failing to reflect the quality of his performance. Overall, the Brewers’ offense looks balanced. It may not be the league’s most powerful home-run hitting unit, but it makes up for that with speed and an ability to manufacture runs.

The Mariners’ offense is in far worse shape. The team ranks second-to-last in overall OPS and last in runs scored. Yes, they have standout performers such as Dominic Canzone, who is enjoying a breakout season, and Julio Rodríguez, but the overall picture is bleak. Cal Raleigh’s performance is particularly disappointing, with his season best described as an outright failure. New additions such as Taylor Ward have yet to meet expectations, creating more headaches for the coaching staff. The only bright spot may be the unexpected speed of Josh Naylor, who leads the team in stolen bases.

As for pitching, the Brewers appear to have the edge. Their team ERA ranks among the league’s top three, while their bullpen has been exceptionally reliable. The Mariners’ starting rotation is also solid, but bullpen problems—particularly from their primary closer Andrés Muñoz, who has blown seven save opportunities—could become the deciding factor in the series.

Interestingly, Kyle Harrison will take part in the game, and his statistics were recently adjusted after an umpiring decision on the field was reviewed. This detail is a reminder of how important even the smallest nuances can be in baseball.

Predicting the outcome of the series, the Brewers look like the more balanced and confident team. Although the Mariners are capable of pulling off a surprise, especially given their desperate situation, Milwaukee appears more likely to win two of the three games. The series is an excellent opportunity for the Brewers to strengthen their position at the top, while for the Mariners it may be their last chance to catch the playoff train.

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Robbery, Record Contracts and Injury: Sports and City News Digest

A digest of the top stories: Seattle police are investigating a robbery on Rainier Avenue, the Seahawks have signed Devon Witherspoon to a record-setting contract, and the Mariners have given injured shortstop Colt Emerson a break.

Robbery on Seattle’s Rainier Avenue: Police Search for Suspects, One Person Hurt

Another incident in Seattle has drawn the attention of local residents and law enforcement. City police asked the public to avoid the area near the intersection of Rainier Avenue South and South Walden Street because of an active operation related to a robbery. Preliminary information indicates that one person was injured, although the severity of the injuries has not been disclosed. Officers are searching for suspects, whose number also remains unknown. The situation developed quickly: several nearby schools were temporarily placed under heightened security, but the restrictions were lifted soon afterward, suggesting that the immediate threat to educational facilities had passed.

According to information published in a KIRO 7 News Seattle report, details of the incident remain limited, as is typical during the early stages of an investigation. Journalists report that police are continuing to work at the scene while determining the circumstances of the crime. It is not yet clear whether the robbery involved a weapon, whether it took place inside a business or on an open street, or what valuables the perpetrators were targeting. The lack of specifics naturally raises questions among community members, particularly those who live or work in the area, which is known for its busy traffic corridor and mix of residential development.

For context, Rainier Avenue is one of Seattle’s major thoroughfares, running through several distinct neighborhoods, from industrial areas to residential districts. Incidents like this do occur there, but they generate heightened concern because of the avenue’s proximity to schools and public spaces. A temporary school lockdown is a standard precaution used in the United States during nearby police operations to eliminate risks to children. The fact that the lockdown was lifted relatively quickly could indicate that the suspects left the area or that their movements were contained, although there has been no official confirmation of either possibility.

Police have not yet released descriptions of the alleged perpetrators or a vehicle, making it more difficult for residents to assist in the search. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity through emergency channels. In situations like this, it is important to remember that information often changes during the first few hours. News organizations, including KIRO 7, have promised to update the report as more details become available. For anyone who witnessed the incident, even seemingly minor details—such as the color of someone’s clothing or the direction in which they traveled—could significantly advance the investigation.

The difficulty in the current situation is that the absence of a complete picture makes it impossible to draw conclusions about the motive or whether the crime may be part of a series. Law enforcement officials generally avoid premature comments so as not to mislead the public or interfere with investigative work. For local residents, however, that means a growing sense of uncertainty that usually subsides after the first official statements are released. In any event, the incident underscores the need for increased patrols in areas with mixed infrastructure, where motorists, pedestrians and school routes converge. For now, the hope is that the injured person receives all necessary medical care and that those responsible are found soon.

Seattle Makes Witherspoon’s Record Contract Official: What It Means for the Team and the NFL

The Seattle Seahawks officially announced a four-year, $132 million contract with cornerback Devon Witherspoon, making him the highest-paid player at his position in league history. The deal, which the sides agreed to on Saturday, was finalized Monday, meaning the 24-year-old defensive back will remain with the team through 2031. General manager John Schneider called the agreement “a win-win” for both the player and the organization, noting that Witherspoon brings not only exceptional on-field results but also a unique energy to the locker room. It is the second major contract the Seahawks have completed this offseason. Earlier, wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba signed a record $168.6 million deal, making him the highest-paid player at his position. The club’s approach to retaining young stars reflects a strategy focused on building a competitive roster for the long term.

Witherspoon, selected fifth overall in the 2023 draft, has already established himself as one of the league’s most versatile defenders. Over three seasons, he has recorded two interceptions, 32 pass breakups, 4.5 sacks, 16 tackles for loss and two forced fumbles. Notably, during that span he became one of only four NFL players to reach at least 30 pass breakups, three sacks and 15 tackles for loss. Last season, he played a key role on Seattle’s top-ranked defense, then added four more pass breakups, a sack and three quarterback hits in the playoffs, including important plays in the Super Bowl against the New England Patriots. Head coach Mike Macdonald, who previously led Baltimore’s defense, praised Witherspoon’s leadership, calling him “a foundational player” and emphasizing that the club was intentionally making such a substantial investment to reward his contributions.

To understand the importance of the deal, it helps to review some elements of the NFL’s contract system. The league has a salary cap that limits the amount each club can spend on players during a season. A $132 million contract is not paid in one lump sum. Instead, it is structured so that much of the money comes through signing bonuses and guaranteed payments distributed over several years. This allows the club to maintain flexibility when building its roster. A key point is that Witherspoon still had two years remaining on his rookie contract, but Seattle exercised his fifth-year option and then immediately offered him a long-term extension. The move not only protects the player from the risk of suffering an injury without financial guarantees, but also gives the club confidence in its stability for the next six years. For comparison, the previous record contract for a cornerback belonged to Miami’s Jalen Ramsey: $100 million over four years.

Witherspoon’s record deal has broader implications for the NFL market. First, it raises the bar for all cornerbacks who negotiate contracts in the coming years, particularly young talents such as Denver’s Patrick Surtain and Kansas City’s Derek Stingley. Second, it signals that Seattle is prioritizing winning now rather than rebuilding. With Smith-Njigba already under a record contract, and ESPN ranking the team as having the league’s best future outlook, the Seahawks are building a core that could dominate the NFL for years. There is, however, a downside to such decisions: massive spending on two players will limit the resources available to strengthen other positions, such as the offensive line or defensive depth. Still, as Schneider emphasized in a Seattle Sports interview, such investments are justified when they involve players who are the heart of the team.

In the coming years, Witherspoon will become the face of Seattle’s defense, and his contract will serve as a benchmark for future negotiations across the league. The only question is whether he can meet those expectations on the field and avoid the pressure that comes with such a large contract. For now, both the club and the player are looking toward the future with optimism—and they have every reason to do so.

“The Book Isn’t Closed”: What’s Next for Mariners Prospect Colt Emerson

The situation surrounding 21-year-old Seattle Mariners shortstop Colt Emerson has raised many questions among fans and analysts. Perhaps the biggest is whether this season could prove fatal to the young phenom’s career. This week, the team announced that Emerson, who has struggled to adjust to the major-league level, had been placed on the 10-day injured list with inflammation in his left wrist tendon. As it turned out, however, the original plan was different: the player was expected to be sent to the Tacoma Rainiers after a game in New York, but everything changed when Emerson himself reported that an injury sustained during spring training was still bothering him.

MLB Network insider Jon Morosi, who appears weekly on the Wyman and Bob program on Seattle Sports, commented on the decision and offered a fairly optimistic, though cautious, forecast. According to Morosi, moving Emerson to the injured list is not a verdict on his future, but rather a necessary pause that will allow the young player to catch his breath and reassess what is happening. Morosi emphasized that front offices in such situations often become overly stubborn, unwilling to acknowledge mistakes, but said the Mariners’ leadership was acting wisely by giving the player a chance to deal with the pressure and physical problems. It is important to note, as the analyst pointed out, that Emerson was offered one of the largest contracts in history for a player his age in March—eight years and $95 million—which makes the club’s investment in him particularly significant.

“The book isn’t closed,” Morosi said, stressing that a stint in the minors—or even a temporary removal from the active roster—does not mean the Mariners have given up on Emerson. He made his major-league debut only a couple of months ago, and it would be foolish to write him off after a few difficult games. The insider also pointed to the broader context: the Mariners are considered a team expected to compete for the playoffs, but they currently look unbalanced. Veterans are not performing at the anticipated level, young players are struggling, and that raises questions about systemic problems within the organization. Morosi asked: if the team does miss the postseason—and based on the current trajectory, that is a real possibility—serious questions will inevitably follow about how the club’s baseball operations are being run.

For those unfamiliar with the details, Colt Emerson is one of the Mariners’ brightest prospects, selected in the first round of the 2023 draft. Signing him to such favorable terms in March, even before his MLB debut, indicated that the club viewed him as a future leader. But taking the field against the world’s best pitchers at age 21 is an enormous challenge, especially when immediate results are expected. Tendon inflammation is not only physically painful but also a psychological burden: a player continues to take the field while trying to meet expectations, but the injury prevents him from fully developing. A 10-day break, even if it does not solve every problem, should help Emerson release some of the pressure and return to the fundamentals of the game.

Overall, Morosi said, the Mariners’ decision should be viewed as a mature one. It shows that the club is prepared to think about the long term rather than short-term results, even if that conflicts with the ambitions of its fans. If Emerson can recover and return to the field with renewed energy, this episode will become only a small chapter in his career. But if the team continues to sink and its young players cannot find a way out of the crisis, calls for fundamental changes in Seattle will only grow louder. For now, Morosi said, Emerson’s priority should not be playing, but understanding why he has had such difficulty adapting to the pace of the league—and only then drawing conclusions.

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Seattle: Festival Tragedy, Gym Theft and Camera Debate

In the digest: a dealer arrested after a buyer’s death at an EDM festival, a warning about car break-ins near gyms, and a poll showing that 75% of Seattle residents support expanding the city’s surveillance-camera network.

Behind Bars: Dealer Who Sold Drugs at EDM Festival Arrested After Buyer’s Death

Last Sunday, tragedy struck the grounds of The Gorge amphitheater in Washington state, once again raising questions about safety at large music events. During the Bass Canyon electronic dance music festival, a 27-year-old man died from suspected drug poisoning. According to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office, the death occurred after the festivalgoer bought and used drugs purchased from another attendee. The victim’s friends told investigators that he began feeling ill immediately after taking the substances. Although he was taken to the medical station on the festival grounds, he could not be saved.

The Grant County Sheriff’s Office, particularly its Interagency Narcotics Enforcement Team (INET), acted quickly. After identifying the suspected seller—a 28-year-old Seattle resident—detectives conducted an undercover operation and bought illegal substances from him. The man was arrested after the transaction, and cocaine, ketamine and MDMA were found in his possession. He faces charges of distributing controlled substances and three counts of possession with intent to distribute. Most seriously, however, the buyer’s death is now being investigated as a possible drug-related controlled-substance homicide. A final determination of the cause of death will be made after an autopsy scheduled for this week at the Grant County Coroner’s Office.

It is important to note that the concert organizer, Live Nation, actively cooperated with investigators by providing all the necessary information. This is not the first such incident at The Gorge: very recently, during another EDM festival, a shooting occurred at the amphitheater’s campground, leaving two people dead and three wounded. These events raise questions about how effectively security services and educational programs operate at events of such scale, where attendance can reach tens of thousands.

The statistics cited by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are alarming in themselves: from 2000 to 2022, more than one million Americans died from overdoses. Every such incident at a festival is therefore more than a crime report—it is an indicator of a systemic problem. From a legal standpoint, it is worth explaining that “controlled substances” is a legal term for drugs whose distribution is restricted or prohibited by law because of their potential harm to health and risk of addiction. Ketamine, which was found in the suspect’s possession, is a powerful anesthetic that has become popular in recent years as a recreational drug and can cause severe side effects, including respiratory depression. MDMA, better known as ecstasy, and cocaine also frequently contribute to deaths on dance floors, particularly when combined with dehydration and overheating.

This case highlights not only the need for stronger action against dealers but also the importance of educational campaigns for young people. Apparently, the victim bought the drugs impulsively from a stranger, without considering that they might contain a lethal dose of fentanyl or other synthetic opioids, which are often mixed into “ordinary” drugs without the buyer’s knowledge. The dealer’s arrest is merely the tip of the iceberg: behind every such case are entire distribution networks, and until they are dismantled, similar tragedies at concerts will unfortunately continue. Details of the investigation and subsequent court proceedings will likely shed light on how drugs are distributed at the country’s largest music venues, but they will hardly bring back the life of the 27-year-old festivalgoer whose death became yet another reminder of the fragility of human life.

Broken Window at Fitness Club: A Reminder Not to Leave Valuables in Your Car

A Seattle resident named Sandy, who worked out at an LA Fitness in West Seattle, received an unpleasant surprise: while she was exercising, thieves smashed her car window in the underground parking garage and stole everything of value. She shared her story with the local West Seattle Blog, warning other drivers not to leave anything in their vehicles that might attract burglars’ attention.

Unfortunately, the situation is typical of many cities: a gym parking lot, a car left unattended for an hour or more, and, as a result, a broken window and missing belongings. Sandy says the incident occurred specifically in the underground parking garage at LA Fitness, although she did not provide the exact time, so the blog’s reporters are trying to determine the details. Her main goal is to warn others: if you are going to work out, do not bring anything valuable that you might leave in the glove compartment or under a seat.

Crime-prevention experts repeat a basic rule in such cases: nothing valuable should ever be left in a vehicle, regardless of where it is parked—on a busy street, in a driveway or in a “secure” underground garage. Criminals often act on tips or simply inspect vehicle interiors for bags, phones, laptops or even loose change. In practice, thieves do not need a reason; it may be enough for them to see a bag or a jacket on the seat, concealing something valuable.

This case is another reminder that even a seemingly safe location, such as a fitness-center parking lot where people leave their cars for a short time, offers no guarantee against theft. Criminals know that gym visitors often carry bags, wallets and electronic devices, and they may deliberately watch such establishments. The advice is simple and universal: keep all valuables with you, and leave the car empty so that even a casual glance reveals nothing worth stealing. If you have nowhere to keep your belongings, it is better to spend time using the club’s lockers than later replacing a window and important documents.

Sandy’s story is not an isolated incident but another reminder that vigilance is never unnecessary. After all, prevention is always cheaper than the consequences: a broken window, a stolen wallet, a ruined mood and the long process of filing police reports. So the next time you head to the gym, think twice about leaving that “unneeded” phone or bag in the glove compartment—they could be the very reason you meet local thieves.

Seattle Chooses Safety: 75% Support Expanding Surveillance-Camera Network

A serious debate has erupted in Seattle over the balance between privacy and safety, and judging by a new poll, city residents have made a clear choice in favor of the latter. A new study commissioned by the Seattle Chamber of Commerce and Challenge Seattle found striking support for expanding the surveillance system: three-quarters of respondents said they approve of using city cameras to investigate crimes following 911 calls. Nearly half of respondents—45%—expressed strong support for the measure, while even among traditionally surveillance-sensitive progressive voters, 55% agreed that cameras should be activated after an emergency call.

The figures have taken on particular significance because of a violent incident: just hours before the poll was published, more than 20 shots were fired in the Pioneer Square neighborhood. The incident occurred outside Cowgirls Inc. at the intersection of First Avenue and King Street, where a dispute among patrons spilled onto the street and turned into a gun battle. Bullets damaged several cars and the windows of nearby businesses, while one person went to the hospital with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. Notably, the three city cameras installed in the area ahead of the FIFA World Cup were switched off at the time of the shooting.

The cameras are part of a system of 22 devices installed in the stadium district and Pioneer Square specifically for the FIFA World Cup. Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson authorized their activation during the tournament, citing a “real threat to public safety,” but the equipment was powered down again after the competition ended. Brandon Rollins, a security guard working nearby, told KOMO News with frustration that if the cameras had been operating, police would have had conclusive evidence to identify the shooters. Investigators recovered shell casings of various calibers and a firearm at the scene, but have not yet identified any suspects.

The poll, conducted by Fulcrum Strategy Group from August 10 to 13 among 500 registered voters, shows that public opinion has shifted dramatically. Even when respondents were presented with opponents’ arguments—from the risk of abuse to concerns that recordings could end up in the hands of federal agencies pursuing immigration, abortion or transgender-care cases—support for using cameras after a 911 call remained at 75%. In addition, 74% supported expanding the network to Seattle Center and other high-traffic areas, 71% backed installing cameras in neighborhoods with open-air drug markets, and 68% favored allowing civilian security specialists to monitor live feeds in high-crime areas and during major events.

Business leaders have made no secret of their satisfaction. Joe Nguyen, executive director of the Chamber of Commerce, said voters had provided a “clear road map”: they want immediate action, not more discussions about safety. Former Governor Chris Gregoire, who heads Challenge Seattle, called for the cameras to be “turned on now,” increased visible police presence and a specific public-safety plan within 100 days. Particularly troubling for city officials is that only 34% of respondents believe the current city leadership’s strategy is effective—the rest clearly feel that Seattle is struggling with its problems without a systemic solution.

Interestingly, the poll was conducted before Sunday’s shooting, meaning its results reflect not a fleeting emotional reaction but a sustained public demand. Despite ongoing reviews of the city’s Real-Time Crime Center, which are expected to conclude by the fall, residents appear willing to accept certain privacy risks in exchange for greater peace of mind on the streets. John Scholes, president of the Downtown Seattle Association, summed up this view succinctly: amid a chronic shortage of police personnel, modern technology has become a critically important tool. Opponents of the system, however, are not giving up—activists plan to rally outside City Hall on Monday, demanding that the cameras remain off permanently. But if the numbers are any indication, their voices may be drowned out by supporters of surveillance who are tired of endless reports of shootings and street chaos.

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Seattle to See a Calm Week of Typical Summer Weather

Seattle will settle into a stable weather pattern this week, with cloudy mornings followed by sunshine in the afternoon. Daytime temperatures will remain between 24 and 27°C, roughly matching the seasonal average of about 26°C. According to Logan Howard, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, the forecast looks unusually predictable for summer, when conditions often change because of heat, wildfires, wind and smoke.

The familiar pattern will continue Friday morning, but an atmospheric disturbance could move into the region during the afternoon and alter the weather. Rain and thunderstorms are possible in the mountains, though it is not yet clear whether precipitation will reach Seattle itself. Meteorologists also note that, following the recent peak in average summer temperatures, typical highs will gradually decline as September approaches.

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Based on: Seattle weather: A week of nice normal ahead

Seattle Pays the Bills: From Aging Power Grids to a Cooling Housing Market

The city on Puget Sound is facing a triple challenge: billions in costs to replace underground cables installed in the 1960s, a sharp drop in real estate transactions amid turbulence in the tech sector, and sporting success that so far remains the only bright spot for residents.

How Seattle Is Paying for the Mistakes of the 1960s: Underground Cables, a Class Divide and Billion-Dollar Bills

Seattle is confronting a problem that has been building for more than half a century and is now hitting every city resident in the wallet. The issue involves underground power lines installed in affluent neighborhoods in the 1960s for aesthetic reasons—to remove utility wires from view and make the city look more modern. At the time, it seemed like a successful solution: residents of prestigious neighborhoods such as Laurelhurst and Windermere raised the money themselves, the city helped finance the projects, and everyone was satisfied. But no one considered that cables buried directly in trenches without adequate protection would not last forever. Today, more than 300 miles of these lines are well past their useful life, and replacing them will cost more than $2 billion, with the work taking at least 15 years. And that is only the beginning, with additional expenses ahead for upgrading dams, building new substations and transitioning to renewable energy sources.

The story began in the 1960s, when residents of Seattle’s most prestigious neighborhoods wanted their streets to look more like those in the suburbs—with no poles or wires sticking up. They paid about $1,000 per property, equivalent to more than $10,000 today, while the city treasury contributed its share. Those who refused to participate were punished with so-called “revenge poles”—single utility poles with wires placed directly in front of their homes. After the first projects succeeded, city officials decided to expand the approach across Seattle, and in 1968 they officially proposed that residents split the costs equally through special tax districts. The system worked: within 10 years, about 50 such districts had been created, and power lines disappeared from view along roughly 8,000 properties.

But problems began almost immediately. First, conflicts arose within the neighborhoods: wealthy residents on the hills wanted attractive views, while those living lower down and with less money did not understand why they should pay for someone else’s aesthetics. Second, fixed fees failed to keep pace with inflation, and by the late 1970s the city was covering three-quarters of the cost instead of the agreed-upon half. In effect, taxes paid by all Seattle residents were funding improvements in the wealthiest neighborhoods, prompting justified outrage. A group called Citizens for Underground Equality even sued the city, but without success. Meanwhile, citywide electricity rates rose by 2.3% specifically because of the program, while residents of poorer neighborhoods received nothing in return. When the city stopped subsidizing the project in the early 1980s, new districts ceased to be created—but the old cables had already been buried.

Now the consequences are clear: while the average power outage in Seattle lasted 78 minutes in 2014, that figure had risen to 145 minutes by 2024, placing the city’s utility service in the bottom quarter nationally. Former Seattle City Light General Manager Dawn Lindell, who was dismissed this year, admitted that she had never seen reliability this poor in her career: “Outages happen almost every day. I’ve never seen anything like it.” The problem is that the cables were buried directly in the ground without protective conduits, so locating a fault requires tearing up entire streets. Massoud Amin, a power-grid expert at the University of Minnesota, calls this a classic sign of aging underground lines: they are difficult to locate and slow to repair.

Seattle is also unusual because, since the early 2000s, its municipal utility has deliberately followed a “run-to-failure” policy, keeping rates low at the expense of maintenance. This was connected to the 2000–01 energy crisis, when electricity prices surged because of drought in California and manipulation by traders, including the notorious Enron. Rather than raising rates as other utilities did, Seattle saved money by cutting back on repairs. Now the city is paying for those savings with interest, and officials acknowledge that the situation cannot continue.

Residents in particular neighborhoods have been hit especially hard. Anna Romanova, who moved to Queen Anne in 2021, has experienced more than 20 outages, including six in the first half of this year alone. She has two young children, one of whom suffers from allergies and needs humidifiers and air purifiers, while she is studying remotely at Georgetown University, where a stable internet connection is essential. Every outage is more than an inconvenience—it is a real problem for her family. Neighbors in View Ridge endured 79 outages over five years before the city finally replaced the cables there at a cost of $63 million. Now, according to local resident Diana Kincaid, outages are practically nonexistent.

Everyone else has to wait. Residents on Queen Anne’s south slope, where cables were installed in two phases during the 1970s, may not get new lines until 2030. At a recent meeting with City Light leadership, more than 60 residents demanded that officials declare an emergency, but authorities remain cautious: they acknowledge that such a declaration could speed up the process, but would not guarantee a quick result. Former Seattle Department of Transportation chief Peter Hahn, who has lived in Queen Anne for more than 40 years, says the work was supposed to begin next year but has yet to start. “If this isn’t an emergency, then I don’t know what is,” he said angrily.

The most difficult issue is one of fairness. Why should all city residents—including those in poorer neighborhoods who receive no benefit from the underground lines—have to pay for the mistakes of wealthy districts made half a century ago? The administration of former Mayor Bruce Harrell considered charging those same neighborhoods for the costs, but concluded that doing so would be legally and logistically impossible: the neighborhoods have changed, and not all of them are as wealthy as they once were. The current mayor’s office, led by Katie Wilson, has not yet provided a clear answer.

Seattle’s problem is not just a story about electricity. It illustrates how short-term political decisions can create long-term problems. As Amin notes, municipal utilities must win a political battle for their budgets every year, while equipment repairs produce no visible results, unlike rate increases, which trigger an immediate negative reaction. As a result, infrastructure ages, and when the bill finally comes due, it is so large that even a wealthy city struggles to pay it. Although Seattle is one of America’s most prosperous cities, it shows how easily governments can fall into the trap of “saving money” on things that are invisible but essential to normal life.

Seattle’s Real Estate Market: The Tech Sector Is Reshaping the Old Order

Seattle, until recently regarded as a model of rapidly rising housing costs fueled by the boom in technology giants, is now showing a paradoxical trend for the first time in years: real estate transactions are plunging even as prices remain extraordinarily high. According to a new report from brokerage Redfin, pending home sales in the Seattle metropolitan area fell 15.6% in a single month—the sharpest decline among all major U.S. metropolitan areas. By comparison, Houston, which ranked second in the pace of decline, saw the figure fall 14.3%. At the same time, Seattle’s median home price stands at an astonishing $809,479—nearly twice the national average. The obvious question is: Why are buyers standing still when housing remains unaffordable for most people?

The roots of this phenomenon lie not in classic economic cycles but in turbulence within the technology industry itself, which has supported the local market for decades. As Redfin agent Chase Costello, who works in Seattle, Bellevue and Mercer Island, explains, the dynamic has changed radically: at the end of 2019, a listed home could attract 15 offers within its first few days; now, offers arrive far less frequently. “The pendulum has definitely swung the other way,” he says. The key factors are a reduced influx of new employees into local corporations and declining mobility among IT professionals, who once frequently changed jobs and moved with them. In addition, mass layoffs at Amazon and other giants, along with uncertainty surrounding the development of artificial intelligence, are making potential buyers more cautious. According to Costello, tech workers “don’t want to dip their toes in the water and discover six months later that they’ve been laid off.” This wait-and-see psychology is directly reflected in transaction statistics.

It is important to understand, however, that this is not a market collapse but a painful correction. Costello emphasizes that prices are not plunging; rather, the market is adapting to a new reality. He even advises buyers not to wait indefinitely but to enter the market now, locking in mortgage rates of 6% or higher with the expectation of refinancing later. The comparison with other hubs is also revealing: while Seattle leads the nation in the decline, San Francisco has recorded an 8.5% increase in pending sales. Still, the agent says San Jose—not San Francisco—is a more appropriate comparison for Seattle, as the two markets are following similar trajectories. These data, reported in a KOMO article, paint a picture of a market that, for the first time in a generation, has ceased to be a “sacred cow” for investors and entered a phase of sober reassessment.

The median price of $809,000 itself deserves special attention. Seattle resident Matt Fioretti, who bought his home in 1998, recalls that the amount already seemed astronomical at the time, yet his house is now worth seven times as much. This historical context explains why prices remain high even as transactions decline: the market is retreating from its peaks but is not returning to long-term average levels. Sellers accustomed to outsized profits are unwilling to cut prices sharply, while buyers—particularly those seeking stability in an era of layoffs—prefer to wait. The result is a classic pattern of “sticky prices”: sales volumes fall, but nominal home values remain supported by inertia and limited new construction.

The deeper cause lies in the changing nature of tech employment itself. Since the late 2010s, Seattle has attracted talent from around the world, creating demand for housing within an hour’s commute of Amazon, Microsoft and hundreds of startup campuses. Now, as companies reconsider remote-work policies while simultaneously introducing AI that is reducing some routine positions, the flow of new residents has dried up. Meanwhile, longtime employees who have kept their jobs often have mortgages with low rates locked in during 2020 and 2021 and are not listing their homes, preferring to stay put. The market is therefore trapped in a low-liquidity situation: few buyers, few listings and high prices. Redfin analysts do not rule out the imbalance continuing for the next several quarters before the market finds a new equilibrium.

As for practical advice to potential buyers, Costello’s recommendation to “buy now and refinance later” makes sense only for those with a long-term planning horizon and confidence in the stability of their income. With mortgage rates above 6% and the technology-sector labor market unstable, the strategy is more a bet on future interest-rate cuts by the Federal Reserve than an immediate financial advantage. Nevertheless, for those not tied to a specific neighborhood, the current situation creates room for negotiation, as sellers are beginning to accept offers below the asking price. Ultimately, as San Jose’s experience shows, technology-driven housing markets are cyclical. The current cooling is not the end of an era, but merely a pause before a new upswing, when the AI revolution creates new jobs and, in turn, new demand for housing in Seattle.

Josh Hader Turned August into a Personal Showcase: How the Astros’ Closer Became Houston’s Most Reliable Player

August was not merely a good month for Houston Astros pitcher Josh Hader—it was a model of perfection. Seven appearances without allowing a single run, and his ERA (earned runs allowed per nine innings) has now fallen to a phenomenal 0.90, while his WHIP (walks and hits per inning pitched) has dropped to 0.77. If you are not deeply immersed in baseball statistics, these numbers may seem like dry data. But for those who follow the game, they send a clear signal: we may be watching the best closer in the league right now.

When people talk about Hader, they usually mention his powerful fastball and nearly unhittable slider, which confounds even the most experienced batters. But this August, it is not only about the “physical” side of the game. José looks different mentally: he is not simply coming in to close games; he is coming in to shut them down. In each of the seven games, he entered the ninth inning with one task—not to give the opponent even the slightest hint of a comeback. And he has done so with frightening consistency. An ERA of 0.90 means that over all his work this month, he has allowed opponents just one earned run—and even that is theoretical, because in reality he has not given up any runs. A WHIP of 0.77 means he allows fewer than one baserunner per inning—an extraordinarily dominant level that is rare even among elite relievers.

The context of these statistics matters not only for Hader’s personal ranking but for the entire team. The Astros are battling for first place in the American League West, and every victory during the tense final stretch of the season is worth its weight in gold. When your closer is in this kind of form, a manager has the luxury of managing the game with confidence, knowing that the ninth inning is almost guaranteed to succeed. Recall how Hader occasionally had “roller-coaster” outings in July—one brilliant game followed by a poor one. Now his performances look like clockwork. Interestingly, this transformation came after he was criticized early in the season for inconsistency, with some even suggesting that he be placed on the injured list to “reset his mind.” Instead, he reset his delivery and is now reaping the rewards.

To understand why these numbers are so highly valued in baseball, consider the context. An ERA of 0.90 is nearly an anomaly for a closer who works in the most stressful situations, often with runners on base and a narrow lead. For comparison, the greatest closers in history—such as Mariano Rivera and Trevor Hoffman—posted career ERAs of around 2.21 and 2.74, respectively. Although Hader’s sample size is small, his current level indicates that he is in unique physical and psychological form. A WHIP of 0.77 is also elite: it means that, on average, he allows fewer than one baserunner per inning, making him practically “untouchable” for opponents. In effect, batters step into the box knowing that their chances of success are extremely slim—and that creates a psychological advantage.

For the Astros, this means not only confidence in the late innings but also a major weapon for the playoffs. If Hader maintains this level through October, Houston will have a tool capable of changing the course of any series. Recall how, in last year’s postseason, a dependable closer often became the decisive factor in extra innings. It is too early to make grand declarations about a “dream season,” but what Hader is doing now is already writing his name into the team’s history. According to MLB.com, these seven consecutive scoreless appearances are the best streak of his career, and he clearly has no intention of stopping.

His pitching approach has changed as well. Analysts have noticed that in August Hader began using his two-seam fastball more often, creating additional movement and forcing batters to miss low in the zone. Combined with his signature slider, this creates a “closed loop” for anyone facing him. Opponents can no longer simply wait for one overpowering pitch—they now have to guess between two completely different offerings, disrupting the rhythm of their swings. At the highest level, such details can turn a good pitcher into an elite one. And although there is still considerable time remaining in the regular season, it can already be said that if Hader continues in this form, discussions about the league’s best closer this year will revolve around him.

There is also a downside: such extraordinary form can create excessive pressure on the player and the team. When you post a 0.90 ERA, any subsequent poor outing is perceived as a catastrophe, even if you give up only one or two runs. But in recent interviews, Hader has emphasized that he does not think about the statistics and simply focuses on each pitch. That is probably the healthiest approach. In baseball, where fractions of a second and millimeters decide everything, thinking too much about the numbers can only hurt. His calm and confidence spread to his teammates, and that may be even more important than the raw statistics. So the Astros can sleep soundly: their last line of defense is currently in reliable hands.

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Ten-Year-Old Girl Rescued from Lake Tapps

On Sunday, a ten-year-old girl was pulled from the water at Lake Tapps after witnesses noticed that she was drowning. The incident occurred near North Lake Tapps Park, a popular spot for swimming and boating. The girl was about 10–20 feet from shore. Pierce County sheriff’s deputies arrived at approximately 2 p.m. About ten minutes later, she was pulled from the water, and one of the deputies began performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation. She was taken to the hospital in critical condition, but by 5 p.m. her condition had improved and was listed as stable.

Sheriff’s deputies remained at the scene, questioning witnesses and the girl’s relatives. Lake Tapps has previously been the site of a fatal incident: in August 2025, a 55-year-old man died while swimming. His relatives pulled him from the water and, together with arriving rescuers, attempted to perform CPR, but he could not be saved.

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Based on: Girl, 10, rescued from Lake Tapps; condition improves from critical

Mariners: Dramatic Win and New Challenges Before the Decisive Series

The Seattle Mariners are experiencing a pivotal moment in their season: after a resounding victory over the Astros, the team is dealing with the loss of two key outfielders to injuries while still holding on to hope for a miracle in the playoff race.

Seattle Rebounds: Rout of Astros Revives Late-Season Playoff Hopes

The Seattle Mariners endured perhaps the toughest moment of their season Friday night, when Christian Walker hit a walk-off home run in the 10th inning, dealing the team a devastating blow. The season appeared lost, and their playoff hopes seemed to be fading. But the very next day, the team showed remarkable resilience, producing one of its most impressive games of the year. The 10–5 victory over a major division rival not only reopened the race for first place but also showed that this team is capable of more than simply accepting its setbacks.

The star of the game was Brendan Donovan, who returned to his familiar spot near the top of the batting order and seemed to remind everyone why the Mariners had worked so hard to acquire him over the winter. Three hits and three RBIs in a game where every hit mattered were exactly what the team had been missing in recent weeks. Notably, all of Donovan’s offensive contributions came with two outs, demonstrating the composure and ability to capitalize on opportunities that Seattle had too often squandered earlier this season.

The offense was not the only area worthy of praise. Emerson Hancock, who took the mound, turned in perhaps the best game of his career. After escaping a difficult bases-loaded situation in the first inning, he allowed just one run and then completely dominated, retiring 17 of the final 18 batters he faced. Eight strikeouts and only five hits allowed were signs of genuine mastery. Combined with the offense’s 15 hits, the team looked like a well-oiled machine—especially valuable after such an emotional loss the night before.

Significantly, the Mariners collected 27 hits over the past two games, their best two-game total of the season. It is also notable that only one of those hits was a home run. That suggests the team has finally begun scoring not through occasional long balls, but through consistent play, sustained rallies and the ability to take advantage of every mistake by its opponent. That approach was built into this team in the spring, and with only 38 games remaining, it could become a decisive factor.

The Mariners’ deficit behind the Astros in the AL West standings is now just five games—not an insurmountable gap, especially considering that Seattle has won eight of its 10 head-to-head meetings with Houston this season. Of course, this was only one game, and plenty of work remains, but the way the team responded to its defeat deserves respect. Manager Dan Wilson highlighted Donovan’s progress as he gradually regains his form after an injury, and that is perhaps one of the most encouraging signs for fans.

Still, it is important to remember that a season is a marathon, not a sprint. One impressive victory, even against such a strong opponent, does not guarantee an automatic postseason berth. But Sunday’s game, with Emerson Hancock scheduled to start, will be a serious test of character. Seattle will have an opportunity to show whether it can maintain consistency or whether Saturday was merely a one-game flash. As Donovan said in an interview with The Seattle Times, “better late than never”—words that now sound like the motto of an entire team desperately clinging to its last realistic chance to save the season.

It is tempting to believe that this victory could mark the beginning of a new surge. With more than 30 games still ahead and everything in the players’ hands, the Mariners are certainly capable of surprising everyone. The key will be preserving the energy and confidence they displayed Saturday and avoiding complacency after a single win. Seattle’s season is not over yet, and this game may prove to be the turning point that will be remembered for a long time.

Victor Robles Writes His Name Into Seattle History With Rare Feat

Yesterday’s game between the Seattle Mariners and Houston Astros gave fans not only a tense battle but also an individual achievement rarely seen in the league. Seattle outfielder Victor Robles became the first player on his team in seven years to hit a triple in two consecutive games. The last player to accomplish the feat was Mallex Smith, on July 13 and 14, 2019, when he also tripled in back-to-back games. This statistical detail, published in the official report on MLB.com, underscores how rare and valuable the accomplishment is in modern baseball.

To understand the significance of the achievement, it is worth remembering that a triple is one of the most difficult plays in the game. Unlike a home run, which leaves the field, or a double, in which the batter stops at second base, a triple requires not only a powerful hit but also perfect running technique, speed and the ability to read the situation on the field. The batter must reach all three bases before the opposing defense can return the ball to the infield. In modern baseball, where increasing emphasis is placed on power and exit distance rather than compact, all-around play, triples have become increasingly rare. The Mariners’ statistics are especially telling: no player on the team had repeated the feat in seven years, highlighting how specialized and dependent on numerous factors the skill is.

Robles, who joined the team last season and quickly established himself as a regular, embodies the style of play valued in modern baseball—versatility and speed. His success against the Astros was not simply a coincidence. It resulted from work on his first step and choosing the right moment to swing. Against the backdrop of the powerful home runs that dominate highlight reels, achievements such as Robles’ triples serve as a reminder that baseball is not only a battle for the fences but also an intellectual duel between the runner and the defense. For Seattle, which is fighting for a playoff spot, every such element matters: a triple not only puts a runner in an excellent position to score but also creates panic in the opposing defense.

Interestingly, according to the league’s website, the game itself ended in a home victory—the Astros were the stronger team in that matchup—but the Mariners still have reason for optimism. Robles showed that he can reach peak form at the most important point of the season, when every game becomes critical. His two-game streak of triples is not only a personal milestone but also a signal to the coaching staff that the team has a player capable of diversifying its offense and creating danger regardless of how far the ball travels. Over the long term, such skills could become a decisive factor in tight playoff games, where one successful baserunning maneuver can change the course of a matchup.

Mariners Lose Key Players Before Decisive Game in Houston

The Seattle Mariners entered Sunday’s series finale against the Astros in Houston with serious roster problems that could cost the team a victory at the most important moment of the season. Manager Dan Wilson was forced to improvise, assembling the lineup barely two hours before first pitch after it became clear that right fielder Victor Robles would not be able to play because of a shoulder injury suffered the previous night. Robles injured his right shoulder while attempting a spectacular diving catch in the ninth inning of the 10–5 victory, and although he used a heating pad Sunday, hopes that he would recover were not realized. Robles’ absence is especially painful given his outstanding statistics against the Astros—he is batting .375 in 13 career games against them—and his diving catch at this same stadium last September effectively secured Seattle’s AL West division title.

In addition, Taylor Ward, the outfielder acquired at the trade deadline, missed his fourth consecutive game while dealing with a hamstring strain. That left Wilson with virtually no bench: only two position players, including the inexperienced Leo Rivas and backup catcher Hoon-Jeong “Honie” Pereda, were available as replacements. Weston Wilson had to be inserted into the starting lineup for the first start of his career as the designated hitter—a decision that looks like a gamble in a game that could determine the outcome of the entire series and provide psychological momentum heading into the playoffs.

Looking at the bigger picture, however, Seattle’s problems are not limited to injuries. The team’s road trip continues after Houston with a visit to Milwaukee, where it will face the league’s best team, the Brewers, who won three of four games against the Dodgers over the weekend and own an impressive 41–22 home record. The only consolation for the Mariners is that they will avoid facing Jacob Misiorowski, the National League’s leading Cy Young contender, who this summer set a record for pitchers by reaching 105.5 mph with his fastball. The Milwaukee series promises to be no less intense than the one in Texas, especially considering that Seattle’s starting pitchers—Miller, Gilbert and Kirby—have posted far from their best numbers this season, although their ERAs remain within an acceptable range for a competitive rotation.

In essence, Sunday’s game and the coming week will test not only the players’ physical readiness but also the depth of Wilson’s roster. When every game is precious, losing two key outfielders almost simultaneously could force the coaching staff to rethink its strategy—from aggressive hitting and baserunning to a more conservative approach focused on pitching. Robles, who had been so good in the first two games of the series—going 5-for-9 with triples in consecutive games, something no Mariner had done since 2019—would clearly have been a central figure in the game plan. His absence is not merely a hole in the outfield; it is also the loss of one of the few players capable of getting the most out of every plate appearance against Houston’s pitchers.

Ward’s situation is even more concerning. A hamstring strain can heal within a few days or linger for weeks, and with a demanding road schedule ahead, the coaching staff clearly does not want to risk aggravating it. The hope is that a couple of days of rest in Milwaukee will help him return, but for now the Mariners must play with a limited roster, making every decision on the field more hazardous. In such a situation, any unexpected factor—such as Rivas or Pereda being forced into a crucial plate appearance—could prove decisive, and it will be interesting to see how the team handles the pressure. More details are available in The Seattle Times article, which also lists the probable starting pitchers for the upcoming series against the Brewers. Overall, this week will indicate how deep Seattle can dig in its playoff pursuit and how effectively the coaching staff can adapt to unforeseen circumstances.

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Seattle Debates the Limits of Digital Technology in Schools

Seventh-grader Maxwell Adams of Hazel Wolf K–8, a public school in Seattle, attends school without his own laptop or cell phone. When an assignment requires a color or digital presentation, he uses a classmate’s screen or chooses a paper alternative, such as making a poster. During recess and lunch, Maxwell prefers sports while other students work on computers. His parents have also opted him out of computer-based state testing, accepting that some assignments may go unfinished.

Hazel Wolf K–8 is a typical district school serving children from kindergarten through eighth grade, but it is known for taking a more cautious approach to continuous screen use. The administration agreed to provide Maxwell’s family with an individualized learning arrangement. Such exceptions are generally considered on a case-by-case basis—for medical reasons, special educational needs or an individualized plan agreed upon with the family. The exact frequency of these decisions has not been publicly disclosed.

Maxwell’s parents believe that the ability to concentrate, personal privacy and protection from harmful content are more important than constant access to digital tools. They worry about unsupervised internet use, gaming addiction and declining attention spans. Their choice reflects nationwide debates over how to prepare children for a digital future without sacrificing critical thinking, social skills and interest in the real world. Research has linked excessive screen time to anxiety, depression, delays in social-emotional development and reduced concentration, although the effects of school technology specifically have not yet been fully studied.

Seattle Public Schools provides laptops or tablets to nearly all of its 50,000 students because digital tools are used for teaching, homework, testing and digital-literacy instruction. The programs cost about $21 million annually, and schools use more than 50 educational technology products. Kindergarten students receive iPads, although younger children generally use them less than older students. The district says screen-free lessons are possible, but a complete rejection of technology does not comply with its policies.

The use of digital platforms is accompanied by data-protection requirements. The district signs privacy and security agreements with vendors, limits data processing to educational purposes and requires compliance with the federal FERPA and COPPA laws, as well as Washington state’s student-privacy law. Platforms generally receive only the information necessary to operate and are not supposed to use it for advertising or sell it to third parties. However, the actual amount of data collected depends on the terms of each contract, service settings and district oversight. Public information does not always make it possible to determine precisely what student information is processed by, among others, Amplify and GoGuardian.

Superintendent Ben Shuldiner acknowledges that children spend too much time in front of screens and is developing recommendations for structuring the school day. The district is also considering setting a daily limit on device use. According to Shuldiner, technology should be used only for a clear educational purpose, rather than becoming a substitute for meaningful work during open learning periods.

In Washington state, regulation of cellphones and school devices has developed more slowly than in other states. For a long time, there was no single mandatory rule, leaving many decisions to districts, schools and school boards. This decentralization has led to differences among schools and slowed the adoption of common standards. A district may establish an overarching policy—for example, requiring phones to be turned off or put away during class—while individual schools may provide further details and grant justified exceptions, as long as they do not conflict with district policies or state law. The governor and the state’s education chief are urging lawmakers to ban cellphones in schools throughout the entire school day.

Maxwell’s mother, Laura Karshny, first homeschooled her son in second grade, when he was assigned too much computer work during the pandemic. She later enrolled him in a Catholic school, but Chromebooks appeared there as well. Eventually, Maxwell enrolled at Hazel Wolf after the administration agreed to make an exception, taking the family’s concerns about data collection by commercial technology companies into account. Karshny wanted her son to interact with children from his neighborhood, but for a long time she could not find suitable options.

Some teachers also question the value of constant device use. Science teacher Emily Mosko says that online tests in the Amplify curriculum were difficult to print, while the appearance of the Gemini chatbot on students’ laptops allowed them to obtain answers during quizzes. As a result, her department began creating paper tests. Teachers also noticed a shortage of hands-on experiments, as well as the considerable time spent monitoring screens through GoGuardian, which is supposed to block YouTube, Minecraft and other distractions. Mosko compares her role to that of a lifeguard watching over students rather than teaching them.

Problems with digitization arise even in elementary school. Former technology teacher Zoe Dash saw kindergarten students begin their first day with a video game, regularly watch videos instead of reading a book with their teacher and choose iPads almost every time during free-choice activities. Families that want to limit screen time find it increasingly difficult to manage without devices as their children grow older: online projects and presentations turn opting out of a school laptop into a serious obstacle.

Screen-time specialist Emily Cherkin now asks schools to disable generative AI features and is concerned that mandatory educational portals may require the submission of personal data. Maxwell acknowledges that a laptop might be useful to him in high school for notes, calendars and creative writing, but he believes the current system simultaneously calls digital choice voluntary while effectively making it mandatory.

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Based on: These kids are learning without technology in Seattle Public Schools

Company CEO charged after boat collision near Olympia

Harbor Wholesale CEO Justin James Erickson has been charged after a boat collision at Boston Harbor Marina in Thurston County on May 3. The crash left 21-year-old Olympia resident Jack Edwards with life-threatening injuries.

According to court documents, 51-year-old Erickson was operating a 25-foot Cobalt boat with a 300-horsepower engine. Seven people were aboard. Witnesses said the boat was leaving the marina at 35–45 miles per hour, even though the area had a “no-wake” restriction. This requires boats to travel slowly enough that they do not create noticeable waves capable of damaging docks and other boats or inconveniencing people. A fixed speed is usually not specified; the boat operator must choose the lowest safe speed based on the vessel’s size, distance from shore and conditions in the marina.

The Cobalt struck a 10-foot boat carrying five people. Erickson said he was traveling at about 15 miles per hour and that the setting sun obstructed his vision. He said he thought he had hit a log rather than another boat. Witnesses said they warned the people aboard the Cobalt to slow down, but the passengers shouted back and gestured at people on shore.

Before the collision, one of the smaller boat’s engines failed, and a passenger was trying to restart it. When they saw the rapidly approaching boat, three people jumped into the water. After the impact, the boat’s engine was submerged. Witnesses said the Cobalt initially did not stop and returned to the scene about 10 minutes later.

Edwards suffered fractures to his elbow, shoulder blade and femur, deep cuts to his back, and a collapsed lung. He was first taken to St. Peter Hospital in Olympia, which was close enough to provide emergency care and stabilize his condition. He was then transferred to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, a Level I regional trauma center specializing in severe injuries, including complex fractures, head and spinal injuries, and burns. Edwards returned home after about a week and a half. A fundraiser organized for him had raised more than $30,000 by Friday evening.

Erickson has been charged with assault by watercraft and leaving the scene of an accident. Police found no alcohol on the boat, although an odor of alcohol was detected on shore near Erickson and his attorney; its source could not be determined. Erickson declined to take a voluntary sobriety test.

The Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office withdrew from the case because of the prosecutor’s personal connections to the defendant. Such a conflict of interest may provide grounds for the prosecutor or the entire prosecuting attorney’s office to be recused. In such cases, a court may appoint a special prosecutor or transfer the case to the prosecuting attorney’s office in another county to ensure an independent prosecution and a fair proceeding. In this case, the matter is being handled by a deputy prosecutor from Pierce County.

The maximum penalty for the first charge is 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $20,000; the second carries a maximum sentence of five years and a fine of up to $10,000. A date for the first court hearing has not yet been set.

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Based on: Lacey CEO charged after allegedly crashing 25-foot boat, injuring Olympia man

Demolition of Unsafe Warehouse to Begin in Portland After Fire

Demolition of Centennial Mills, an abandoned warehouse complex that was severely damaged by a fire more than two weeks ago, is scheduled to begin in Portland on Monday. City officials warn that the asbestos-containing building is at immediate risk of collapse. Specialists are prepared to respond if the structure suddenly falls, and contractor Staton Cos. has already begun inspecting the site.

The first step will be removing the water tower with a controlled explosion. Officials acknowledge that the operation will be noisy and could concern residents, so they will notify the public in advance, especially people living near the site. On Sunday, workers will begin wetting the area to reduce the spread of dust.

After the tower is dismantled, the contractor will begin taking apart the rest of the building and expects to cut its height in half in about two weeks. At that point, nearby streets and the park, which were closed after the fire, may reopen. A recent search of the ruins by a cadaver dog twice indicated the likely presence of human remains. The work is being coordinated with the fire and rescue service so that, once the structure has been stabilized, specialists can safely examine the areas identified by the dog.

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Based on: Portland warehouse at risk of collapse after massive fire is approved for demolition

Traditional journey brings 130 canoes together in Nisqually

About 130 canoes took part in the annual intertribal journey along the ancestral waterways of the Pacific Northwest. Participants traveled to the traditional lands of the Nisqually people in the southern part of Puget Sound, including the Nisqually River watershed and the area around Puyallup. There, they were welcomed for the final landing and a multiday potlatch — a ceremony featuring songs, dances, storytelling and gift exchanges.

The Muckleshoot canoe family began its journey in Birch Bay, north of Bellingham. On the ninth day, participants traveled from Alki Beach in Seattle to Puyallup, leaving one final crossing to Nisqually. Elliott Bay and the Alki area are considered an important part of the traditional water corridor connecting Puget Sound communities. However, the route requires particular caution because of tidal currents, wind, waves from ferries and other vessels, cold water and rapidly changing weather.

The journey included calm and rough waters and required coordinated work from paddlers, dancers, medics, support crews and camp teams. Rather than using the word “paddling,” participants prefer to say “pulling,” emphasizing the team’s collective effort. Those at the front of the canoe set the rhythm while the others move their paddles in unison. Along the way, travelers could see Mount Rainier, known by Indigenous peoples as təqʷubəʔ, and even watched a whale surface.

The route, order of arrival, crew makeup and codes of conduct are agreed upon in advance by the tribes through host communities and journey organizers. Safety is coordinated with shore services, ports, police, rescue teams and other government agencies. Escort boats, radio communications, tide and weather forecasts are used on difficult sections, but tribal protocols and the right of communities to determine their own conditions for participation remain central.

The modern tradition dates back to the “Paddle to Seattle,” held in 1989 as part of Washington state’s centennial celebration. The host tribe and route change each year. This year’s journey was guided by the theme “Healing through our waters — honoring our ancestors.”

Washington state and local governments help organizers with permits, safety, vessel-traffic coordination, docks, transportation and public spaces. Their support also carries symbolic importance. Bans on potlatches and other cultural practices, imposed in the United States and Canada during the 19th and 20th centuries, were part of a policy of suppressing Indigenous peoples. Today, government officials seek to work with tribes while recognizing their sovereignty, cultural rights and the injustices of the past.

For participants, the journey is more than a sporting or cultural event. It is also a symbol of restoring traditions that were once prohibited. Muckleshoot representatives recalled that Indigenous peoples were not allowed to sing, dance or hold potlatches. Now, dozens of tribes can openly express their cultures and affirm their continuity.

Organizers emphasize that everyone finds their own place in the journey. Some people want to get out on the water, while others prefer dancing, helping in the kitchen or working in camp. Newcomers may feel uncomfortable at first, but over time, organizers say, participation brings a sense of inner strength and spiritual healing.

Escort boats play an important role. Their crews often take to the water before the canoes and return later, monitoring safety, handing out water and food, and relieving tired paddlers. One such crew included older participant Franklin Ross, who first found himself in a canoe eight years ago, despite never having imagined himself on the water.

After roughly six hours of travel, the Muckleshoot canoe reached Puyallup, requested permission to land and continued the journey the next day. In Nisqually, participants joined protocol — a series of ceremonies held in the host community, usually at its cultural or community center. Different peoples sing, dance, tell stories and present their customs. The hosts also prepared food for thousands of guests, including fire-roasted salmon, clam fritters and a berry dessert.

In the evening, members of the Muckleshoot canoe family, dressed in traditional clothing, entered a large tent and performed dances beneath the golden light of the setting sun. For them, it was a celebration of joy and a way to express their connection to their ancestors, hundreds of generations of history and a culture that tribes are working to preserve for the future.

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Based on: Tribal Canoe Journey brings 130 canoes together in Nisqually

King County to return workers to shuttered administrative building

Next month, King County will reopen its downtown Seattle administrative building, which was closed in 2022 because of costly renovation needs and the spread of remote work. The building will now be used temporarily to accommodate employees returning to the office.

The decision is tied to County Executive Dow Constantine’s policy. In January, he announced that employees in the executive branch would have to work in the office at least three days a week. The full transition was expected to be completed by spring 2026, but that target has not yet been reached.

According to the administration, 16,300 county employees currently work in the office at least two days a week. By next month, about 12,800 people — slightly more than three-quarters of the executive branch workforce — are expected to shift to a schedule of at least three office days. This figure includes workers such as bus drivers and jail guards, who have always worked primarily at their job sites.

Not all employees have supported the changes. In the spring, about 75 people occupied the lobby of the Chinook Building to protest the mandatory return. The county services administration building became the site of the demonstration because of its prominent public lobby, with a steady flow of employees, visitors and executives. Protesters said many tasks could be performed remotely, while commuting and working in the office increased costs and burdens. Their signs also said the public needed services, not additional office desks.

The new policy has created a shortage of workspaces. According to a consultants’ report, the county would be short more than 2,500 spaces if employees worked three days in the office and each had a dedicated desk. Even with shared desks, about 1,150 additional workspaces would be needed. Under a two-day schedule, the shortfall would be only about 200 spaces. Workstations could be arranged more densely, used in shifts, or assigned to employees on a hybrid model without permanent desks. The county has already set aside $5.4 million for the costs and could request another $16.7 million this fall for leasing, renovations and IT infrastructure.

The shortage of space could increase demand for affordable offices and make them harder to find, although the surplus of commercial real estate in downtown Seattle could limit rent increases. In the longer term, the county will likely need to renovate, repurpose or make greater use of other buildings, taking their condition and lease terms into account.

The administrative building next to the county courthouse was constructed in 1971. Its massive Brutalist style, gray concrete, diamond-patterned screen and hundreds of small hexagonal windows have sparked debate. Some consider the structure an important example of 20th-century urban architecture and a work of public art; others see it as bleak and unwelcoming. The phrase “the ugliest building in the world” remains a provocative journalistic label, not an official title. The diamond-patterned screen protects the rooms from sunlight while also creating a distinctive façade that many people find unattractive.

Next month, the fifth floor of the building will be occupied by the Department of Public Health. The building is also temporarily housing a sobering center designed to serve up to 40 people.

A major modernization of the building is not currently planned; its cost was estimated at $80 million in 2019. County officials say the structure was maintained in working order during its closure, and they consider the water safe for drinking and hand-washing; bottled water is provided to employees when necessary. Officials emphasize that the building will be used temporarily while the county searches for and prepares other spaces.

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Based on: King County will reopen shuttered building as workers return to office

Fireball and Record Contract: Week’s Top Stories

A bright fireball over Washington, Devon Witherspoon’s record $132 million deal, and other events discussed across the United States this week.

Fireball Streaks Across Washington Sky: What We Know About the Bright Flash

Residents of Washington state witnessed an impressive natural phenomenon—a bright fireball streaked across the night sky, triggering a wave of social media posts and questions about what people had actually seen. Video published by local broadcaster FOX 13 Seattle captured the moment when a dazzling flash briefly illuminated the darkness, leaving a glowing trail behind. Judging by the footage, the object was moving at high speed and was visible clearly enough to be spotted from several areas at once. Events like this are usually associated with meteoroids—small celestial bodies entering Earth’s atmosphere and burning up as they encounter the air, creating the effect of a bright fireball. No official comments had yet been issued by astronomical observatories or local authorities; the report’s author limited the caption to a brief note saying that the phenomenon had been observed in the sky over the state.

This was not the first similar incident in the region in recent months, making the sighting particularly interesting to those who follow space weather. Unlike ordinary meteors, fireballs are exceptionally bright—often comparable to the full Moon—and can leave behind a smoky trail visible for several seconds. Experts note that most such objects range from a few centimeters to about a meter in size, allowing them to burn up completely in the atmosphere without reaching Earth’s surface. Sometimes, however, fragments do reach the ground, becoming meteorites—valuable samples for scientific research. In this case, judging by the video, the body was large enough to be classified as a bolide, but there is still no information about any debris reaching the ground.

Interestingly, the same report mentions another story—a new concert venue called “The Grotto,” which is expected to complement the popular Gorge Amphitheatre. This suggests that the segment combined two striking events of the week that captured public attention: one astronomical and the other cultural. For Washington residents, however, the night sky often delivers surprises, and each such incident is a reminder that we are only a small part of the vast universe. If you have your own footage or observations related to this fireball, it is worth sharing them with local astronomers, as such data help improve our understanding of space-debris streams and the orbits of small celestial bodies.

The full video report is available on the FOX 13 Seattle channel, where viewers can see the flash itself and hear eyewitness comments. For those unfamiliar with the terminology: a fireball is an exceptionally bright meteor produced when a large space object burns up in the atmosphere, while a bolide is an even brighter variety that is sometimes accompanied by sound effects. In any case, witnessing such an event is an excellent reason to reflect on our planet’s fragility and on how much is happening directly above our heads.

Sky Fireworks Over Washington: What Was Behind the Bright Bolide?

On the night from Thursday into Friday, residents of the U.S. state of Washington witnessed an impressive natural phenomenon—a bright blue bolide streaked across the sky, illuminating the surrounding area before exploding in the atmosphere at an altitude of several dozen kilometers. Although not unique, the event attracted the attention of both amateur astronomers and specialists because the explosion’s power was comparable to that of a small tactical weapon. Let’s examine what happened and why scientists became so interested.

According to FOX 13 Seattle, the celestial body, only about 40 centimeters (16 inches) in diameter, entered Earth’s atmosphere at approximately 12:48 a.m. local time (PDT). Traveling at about 53,000 kilometers per hour (33,000 miles per hour), the rock passed through roughly 58 kilometers (36 miles) of the upper atmosphere before breaking apart over the Sims Corner area. At that moment, a bright explosion occurred, recorded not only visually but also by specialized sensors.

Notably, the energy released during the bolide’s fragmentation amounted to approximately 10 tons of TNT equivalent. For comparison, that is similar to the explosion of a powerful aerial bomb, although in this case nearly all the energy went into heating and destroying the meteoroid itself rather than striking Earth’s surface. Fortunately, there have been no confirmed reports that meteorite fragments reached the ground. Most likely, the rock burned up completely in the denser layers of the atmosphere, leaving behind only a beautiful streak of light and a sonic wave.

The most interesting part for scientists began after the fireball disappeared. Because the object was traveling at supersonic speed, it created a shock wave that produced so-called infrasound—acoustic vibrations below the threshold of human hearing, generally under 20 hertz. These low-frequency waves can travel thousands of kilometers, bending around obstacles, and they were detected at several volcanoes in the Cascade Range. Seismographs and specialized infrasound stations located on peaks such as Glacier Peak, Mount Rainier, Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Hood picked up characteristic signals between 12:55 and 1:10 a.m. Pacific time.

What is infrasound, and why does it matter? Unlike ordinary sound, which we can hear, infrasound carries information about powerful natural processes—from volcanic eruptions and earthquakes to nuclear explosions and the impact of large meteorites. A worldwide network of sensors, including stations in seismically active areas, makes it possible to monitor such events in real time. The wave recorded from this bolide was strong enough to be clearly distinguished from normal background noise, indicating a substantial release of energy in the upper atmosphere.

Eyewitnesses, including one FOX 13 viewer in Redmond, managed to capture the bolide’s passage on a home security camera. The recording shows a bright blue flash that briefly illuminates the entire area like a giant camera flash. The blue color is explained by the presence of elements such as magnesium and nickel in the meteorite, which emit light in this part of the spectrum when they burn in the atmosphere.

Phenomena like this occur regularly. Astronomers estimate that Earth encounters dozens of tons of cosmic dust every day, while football-sized bolides enter the atmosphere several times a month. Most either burn up unnoticed over the oceans or disappear against the daylight. The nighttime setting and well-positioned observation cameras made this event an ideal subject for study. Data collected on the object’s trajectory, speed, and composition will help scientists better understand the population of small asteroids that could potentially pass close to our planet.

Although there were no consequences this time, events like this remind us that our planet is constantly under bombardment from space. Meteoroids about the size of a small watermelon typically break apart completely at an altitude of 20–30 kilometers, and the only threat they pose is the psychological impact of a sudden bright flash. Monitoring them, however, is critical for testing warning systems for larger objects that could reach Earth’s surface. Thus, every such event—even if it is merely a “firework” over Washington—adds new information to the planetary-defense effort.

Devon Witherspoon’s New Contract: An NFL Record and Strategic Win for the Seattle Seahawks

The Seattle Seahawks have finally concluded their prolonged negotiations with their key defensive player, signing Devon Witherspoon to a four-year, $132 million contract. The agreement, announced Saturday, automatically makes the 25-year-old cornerback the highest-paid player at his position in league history, with an average annual salary of $33 million. The deal, which includes $101 million in guaranteed money, caps negotiations that began last spring and marks an important step for a franchise strengthening its defense for years to come. General manager John Schneider called the agreement a “win-win,” emphasizing that it benefits both the player and the organization.

The new contract not only provides Witherspoon with financial security but also dramatically changes the structure of his earnings. Previously, he was scheduled to earn $10.1 million in 2026 under his standard four-year rookie contract and $21.161 million in 2027 under the fifth-year option the team exercised in March. Now, according to details published by Pro Football Talk, the player will receive a $26 million signing bonus, while his base salaries for the next two seasons have been reworked to $1.145 million this year and $3.061 million next year. This accounting maneuver allows the team to save significant room under the salary cap in the short term while guaranteeing the player substantial money up front. Witherspoon, commenting on the deal during halftime of the preseason game against Dallas, did not hide his emotions: “It feels good. I’ve been waiting a long time, but you just had to get it done. I’m grateful, just happy, man.”

It is important to note that Witherspoon’s record may not last long. His agency, WIN Sports Group, is simultaneously negotiating a new contract for New England Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez, and many experts believe that handling both deals at once contributed to the delay. Each player likely wanted to be the first to establish a new market standard. Now that Witherspoon has signed, Gonzalez is expected to receive an offer quickly—possibly one that is slightly richer. This creates an intriguing precedent in a league where the salary race at cornerback is becoming increasingly intense. By comparison, Denzel Ward’s recent contract with Cleveland is worth $31.1 million per year, the Rams’ Trent McDuffie earns $31 million, and Indianapolis’ Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner receives $30.1 million.

Beyond the financial aspect, the deal has profound strategic significance for the Seahawks. Witherspoon, selected fifth overall in the 2023 draft with a pick acquired in the trade involving Russell Wilson, has become not only an elite player but also a central element of coach Mike Macdonald’s defensive schemes. His unique versatility—the ability to play both outside, usually on the more difficult left side, and in slot coverage—has allowed the coaching staff to create complex, unpredictable schemes that helped the team allow the fewest points in the entire NFL last season. Macdonald has repeatedly called Witherspoon a “force multiplier” and an “elite competitor,” noting how his constant communication and energy at practice lift the entire team. Safety Julian Love once even joked that “there’s no player the coach loves more than Spoon.” Those relationships now appear likely to continue at least through 2031.

Witherspoon’s signing completes an important stage in the team’s construction. Earlier this offseason, the Seahawks had already extended the contracts of wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, with an average annual salary of more than $41 million, and defensive end Derick Hall, for up to $42 million over three years. John Schneider admitted that extending those three players had been the top priority after the scouting combine. The team has therefore secured two young cornerstones—one on offense and one on defense—each of whom is the highest-paid player at his position, giving the organization a foundation for its long-term strategy. In the context of defending the Super Bowl title the team won last season, the deal removes the final distraction and allows the Seahawks to focus on football, including an upcoming joint practice with the Tennessee Titans in Nashville, where the starting lineup is expected to face a serious workload.

It is worth explaining what the NFL “salary cap” is: a hard limit on the total value of all player contracts on a team, established through the collective bargaining agreement. Teams use various legal mechanisms, such as signing bonuses, which are distributed evenly over the years of a contract, to reduce the burden on the current budget and give themselves greater flexibility. That is why such a large portion of Witherspoon’s new contract is paid up front while his base salaries are reduced. This approach allows the Seahawks to continue strengthening their roster without exceeding the limit. For Witherspoon, the deal means not only record money but also recognition of his achievements: in three seasons with the team, he has been selected to three Pro Bowls and named second-team All-Pro. His playoff performances—including a crucial pass breakup late in the championship game and a three-hit sack in the Super Bowl against the Patriots—have already written his name into franchise history.

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Recall Effort Against Mayor Wilson Discussed in West Seattle

Official documents have been filed to begin a recall effort against Mayor Wilson — a voter-initiated process to remove an elected official before the end of the term. This does not mean the mayor has already been removed from office: the process must now go through the legally required steps, including a review of the grounds for the recall and, likely, the collection of signatures. Only then could the matter be put to a vote.

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Based on: Making the rounds in West Seattle

Over 500 loaves of bread recalled in Seattle and Tacoma

Grand Central Bakery has recalled more than 500 loaves of sourdough potato bread sold in Seattle and Tacoma. The recall was prompted by a pallet nail found inside one loaf. It affects a single batch of dough prepared Monday, including large potato loaves, regular table bread and mini loaves.

The large and mini loaves were sold at grocery stores, while the table bread was sold directly at Grand Central Bakery cafés and through wholesale customers. The products may have reached Central Co-op, Fred Meyer, PCC, QFC, Whole Foods and other stores in the region. No injuries or illnesses have been reported; the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was notified. Customers who purchased the bread on Monday are advised to discard it and contact the bakery at 503-232-0575 or through its website.

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Based on: Over 500 loaves of sourdough bread recalled in Seattle and Tacoma

New roller sports center opens in Issaquah

Rock and Roll Roller Rink has opened in a former Bartell Drugs building in Issaquah, becoming the first permanent roller rink on Seattle’s Eastside in several decades, according to its founders. Visitors are greeted by neon roller-skate signs, music and a disco ball. The nonprofit grew out of monthly pop-up events held after several years of planning.

Rink founder Ayla Webb started skating at age 5 and worked for nearly a decade at the now-closed Skate King in Bellevue. It shut down in 2015, followed by Skateland in Bremerton, Skate Connection in Auburn, Skate Deck in Everett and Skateworld in Tacoma. According to the Webbs, the disappearance of those venues left roughly a 40-mile gap on the Eastside without a rink of its own.

The closures were driven by more than changing public interests. Rising land and rental costs made the large spaces needed for skating attractive for conversion into warehouses, stores, offices and housing developments. Insurance, utilities and the upkeep of large halls added further pressure. At the same time, residents gained more leisure alternatives — from fitness centers and play spaces to movies, digital entertainment and seasonal events — making it harder for permanent rinks to maintain steady attendance.

Ayla, her husband Spencer, and Ed Mills and Irene Pasternak decided to create a permanent, family-friendly place for recreation. In 2025, Issaquah allowed the organization to hold monthly events at Pickering Barn, a historic community building that hosts fairs, cultural programs, weddings and other events. Its large open space, parking and accessibility made it convenient for a temporary rink, although the flooring, safety measures and logistics had to be prepared separately for each evening.

Volunteers had to transport hundreds of pounds of equipment in a rented truck, set up the rink in the morning and take it down at night. Despite the challenges, some events attracted more than 400 people and convinced the organizers to look for a permanent location.

Early this year, a suitable building was found on East Lake Sammamish Parkway. The owner agreed to a short-term lease and gave the organization a year to determine whether the rink could become financially self-sustaining. Before Rock and Roll opened, Issaquah residents had to drive to Federal Way, Lynnwood or Seattle — at least half an hour by car.

The rink operates six days a week and offers sessions for people of all ages, themed nights and a summer camp. Revenue comes from donations, admission tickets, memberships, camps and renting the space for birthday parties and other events. Spectators may enter for free, and people interested in becoming DJs receive free lessons. The space still looks unfinished: the former drugstore counter is now used as the skate-rental window.

The rink’s operations rely heavily on volunteers. One of them is Cliff Alcordo, who joined during the pop-up events. He helps distribute skates and handles other tasks, while his sons also participate and are allowed to skate for free. The organization plans to recruit new volunteers through King County community service, youth employment, internship and job-training programs, as well as through partner nonprofits.

The specific requirements will depend on agreements with those programs. Participants typically need to register, complete orientation, follow safety rules, be dependable and be willing to carry out assigned tasks. Working with children, handling cash or operating equipment may require background checks, a minimum age, specialized training or certifications. Through the practical experience, volunteers could help, for example, create murals or improve the sales system.

The founders hope eventually to buy the current building or another property, protecting the rink from redevelopment and preserving it as a community space. For now, attendance ranges from about 10 people to several dozen, but organizers expect it to grow once students return and cooler weather arrives. Ayla dreams of groups of 80 to 100 skaters, with a maximum capacity of 230 people. She says the rink brings people together, provides an opportunity to exercise and has become a “business of happiness” for a region where many places for shared recreation have disappeared in recent years.

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Based on: New Issaquah roller skating rink brings family-friendly fun to Eastside

Fire Changed Little Spokane Valley but Spared Ancient Rock Art

For generations, the Little Spokane River Valley has attracted residents with its wetlands, vivid wildflowers and abundant wildlife. The area is home to historic settlers’ houses and the natural areas of Riverside State Park, which are popular with tourists, hikers, paddlers and bird-watchers.

Long before Spokane was established, the valley was home to Indigenous peoples, including the Spokane Tribe. They fished in the river and left images on the rocks that are believed to be more than 250 years old. These sites are known as the Indian Painted Rocks.

The petroglyphs are located in the northern part of Riverside State Park, along the rocky banks of the Spokane River. The Painted Rocks Trail leads to them, while the Knothead Loop also passes through the area. Visitors are advised to check the park map and current trail conditions before traveling.

In recent years, the valley has been badly affected by the Autumn Lane Fire, one of three major fires that made up the Spokane Complex. The blaze destroyed about 14 square miles and permanently changed the local landscape and community.

Park representative Rex Schultz said the northern section of Riverside State Park along the Little Spokane River was particularly badly burned. Fires had occurred there before, but this one was much larger: grass and brush were almost completely destroyed, and the ground was covered in ash.

The ancient rock art, however, suffered little damage. It remained visible among charred trees and ash, although some vegetation had grown dangerously close to the rocks. Warren Sayler, a historian and member of the Spokane Tribe, said the images’ exact origins are unknown. They may have depicted hunting, intertribal gatherings or spiritual themes.

The Spokane Tribe advises the park on the cultural significance of the sites, helps develop materials for visitors and advocates treating the petroglyphs with care. Because of their possible spiritual significance, some information about the images may not be made public.

The images were created with crushed red rock and animal fat on a sheer cliff about 25 feet high. They are divided into two groups on an area roughly six by six feet in size and have become more difficult to interpret over time because of rain erosion. Sayler said sites like this may have been used repeatedly, meaning that a single rock can sometimes preserve images created in different centuries.

Local resident Ty Brown believes Rutter Parkway, which runs along the river, probably helped slow the fire’s spread. It may have created a break in the vegetation, reducing the amount of available fuel, while also providing firefighters with access for suppression efforts. In eastern Washington, roads often serve as firebreaks, evacuation routes and access roads for emergency equipment, although they cannot guarantee that a powerful fire will stop.

Brown’s home was near the edge of the evacuation zones for several days. He has researched the valley’s history for more than a decade and said he is relieved that most historic sites survived, but that his main concern is for neighbors who lost their homes.

Park crews are now removing burned trees and other hazardous fire debris near recreational routes, including the Knothead Loop and Painted Rocks trails. Forester Dave Kass said the first priority is to eliminate threats to visitors and infrastructure. After that, crews will work on forest recovery, preventing renewed fires and erosion, and controlling the spread of insects, diseases and weeds.

The fire destroyed about 1,600 acres of the park—roughly 15% of its total area. Recovery will take place in stages. Specialists will assess hazardous trees and the most vulnerable slopes, stabilize the soil, install erosion-control measures, seed native grasses and plants, and contain invasive species. They also plan to monitor natural recovery, the spread of insects and diseases, and, when necessary, supplement natural regrowth with plantings and measures to reduce the risk of future fires. Kass said the work will take years.

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Based on: Spokane fires spared Indian Painted Rocks, damaged state park

Dolores Sibonga’s Memoirs: A Seattle Trailblazer’s Journey

Dolores Sibonga, one of Seattle’s most prominent Filipino American civic leaders, has published her memoir, The Best Adobo in Town. The book’s title refers to Estigoy Cafe, a family restaurant in the historic Chinatown–International District, where pork cooked with soy sauce, vinegar and paprika was served in the 1930s.

The neighborhood developed in stages beginning in the late 19th century. Chinese immigrants settled there first, followed later by Japanese and Filipino communities. Filipino American families opened cafés, boardinghouses and stores, and formed labor unions and civic organizations. Establishments such as Estigoy Cafe were not only businesses but also gathering places for mutual aid, news-sharing and the preservation of cultural identity.

Sibonga was born in 1931 and grew up in Seattle. She became the city’s first woman of color on the Seattle City Council, the first Filipino to pass the Washington state bar examination, and the first Filipino American graduate of the University of Washington’s journalism program.

The book was published shortly after Sibonga’s 95th birthday. The 70-page volume includes family and historical photographs, memories of her childhood in the Chinatown–International District, accounts of the civil rights movement in the 1960s and ’70s, and reflections on her many years in politics and public service.

Sibonga said community members had long asked her to tell her story. But she considers her main motivation to be showing younger generations how actively Filipino Americans participated in the struggle for civil rights.

Sibonga’s childhood unfolded in a small neighborhood between Sixth and 12th avenues. She remembers Filipinotown, her family’s café and the “manongs” — Tagalog for “older brothers” — a term used for the generation of early Filipino labor migrants, particularly those who arrived in the 1920s and ’30s. Many returned to Seattle after seasonal work at Alaska fish-canning plants. Because the city was the Pacific Northwest’s main transportation and economic hub, workers could find housing, jobs, medical care and community support there. The manongs laid the foundation for local organizations, labor activism and Filipino civic life throughout the region.

At the University of Washington in the late 1940s, Sibonga was one of only three students of color in her journalism class. The university, the region’s largest educational and research institution, provided access to professional networks and civic engagement, but racial prejudice still limited opportunities for minorities. Her professors doubted that Sibonga would be able to find work after graduation.

She later worked for local television stations, including KHQ in Spokane and KIRO and KOMO in Seattle. These influential stations shaped public perceptions of regional residents and offered opportunities in journalism, technical work and management, although minorities also faced inequality there. Along with her husband, Martin Sibonga, she owned and operated the Filipino Forum while raising three children.

Publications serving Asian American communities played an important role in the region’s political organizing. The Filipino Forum and, later, the International Examiner covered discrimination, labor disputes, elections and legislation; provided a platform for Chinese, Japanese, Filipino and other residents; and helped coordinate civil rights campaigns.

In the 1960s, Sibonga’s interest in civic activism intensified after she was arrested while covering a demonstration by Black contractors demanding equal access to construction contracts. Sibonga and her son were later acquitted.

After attending the University of Washington School of Law, Sibonga became a public defender, served on the King County Council and worked as deputy director of the Washington State Human Rights Commission. Her responsibilities differed in each role: the Seattle City Council passes local laws, approves the budget and oversees city services; the King County Council handles regional issues, including transportation, public health and justice; and the state commission investigates discrimination complaints and conducts civil rights work.

In 1978, Sibonga was elected to the Seattle City Council, where she served for 12 years and focused on diversity and economic development. In 1991, she ran for mayor but lost — an outcome she writes that she does not regret.

Sibonga helped young professionals, including Art Cenziza, who began as her intern and later became her chief of staff. He remembers her as a strong and intelligent legislator who knew how to ask precise questions and support residents, including new immigrants facing difficulties with immigration authorities.

Work on the memoir began after journalist and civic leader Ron Chew suggested in 2020 that Sibonga record her memories. In 2023, Chew and videographer John Pai interviewed her and her children, providing the basis for the book. The publication was funded by Sibonga’s family and community members and printed by the International Examiner.

Sibonga’s story has received broad support. Her achievements were recently recognized in special statements by the Seattle City Council and the King County Council. Chew considers the publication particularly important amid gentrification and demographic and political changes that could cause society to forget its own recent past.

Rising land prices, new construction and pressure from investors have led to the closure of some family businesses and displaced lower-income residents. Filipinotown has become less visible as a distinct cultural space, while cafés and other sites of memory have become vulnerable to rising rents and changes in ownership. At the same time, activists are working to protect historic buildings, support small businesses and secure recognition for the neighborhood’s Filipino heritage.

At the end of the book, Sibonga urges future leaders to claim a seat at the decision-making table: if no one who shares your values is there, your ideas may go unnoticed.

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Based on: Dolores Sibonga, longtime Filipina trailblazer, shares her story in new memoir

Seahawks and Mariners: Roster Risks, Injuries and Key Matchups

Today’s roundup: the Seahawks are taking a risky chance on a talented cornerback facing legal troubles, preparing to rotate their quarterbacks during the preseason, while the Mariners patch up their roster ahead of a showdown with the Astros.

Seahawks Take a Risk by Signing Talented but Troubled Cornerback

The Seattle Seahawks have made an unconventional but potentially highly rewarding personnel move by agreeing to sign free-agent cornerback Terrion Arnold, according to The Seattle Times. The 23-year-old cornerback was selected by the Detroit Lions in the first round of the 2024 draft, 24th overall, but was released in June because of serious legal problems. Arnold faces eight charges related to an alleged kidnapping and robbery and could be sentenced to life in prison if convicted. Despite this, Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald called his workout “excellent,” and the player has already completed the signing process for a one-year contract worth approximately $1.145 million—the minimum for a player with three years of experience.

The case involving Arnold is extremely serious. According to the Hillsborough County, Florida, prosecutor’s office, he allegedly planned and orchestrated a revenge scheme that led to three men being beaten and kidnapped. Arnold is believed to have acted in retaliation for the theft of $100,000 in cash, as well as expensive bags and watches, from a rental home in Largo. Notably, investigators say he arranged the attack just hours after reporting the missing items to police himself. It was later determined that the kidnapped men were not involved in the theft. Arnold has categorically denied all the allegations through his representatives, and at a July 31 court hearing he entered a written plea of not guilty. His next court appearance is scheduled for October 5—significantly, the day after the Seahawks play the Los Angeles Chargers.

For the Seahawks, this is more than an attempt to strengthen the roster; it is a calculated risk based on Arnold’s considerable potential. Arnold, who was named an All-American during his final season at Alabama, played in 24 regular-season games for Detroit but was limited to eight games last season because of a shoulder injury that required surgery. His youth and talent make him an appealing asset, particularly at such a low price compared with his previous contract, which averaged approximately $3.5 million per year. After being released by Detroit, he attended workouts with the Houston Texans, then visited the New Orleans Saints and New York Giants before settling on Seattle.

Several influential figures within the organization vouched for Arnold. Commenting on the signing, head coach Mike Macdonald emphasized that the team had conducted a thorough review:

“We’re going to do all the necessary research. There are a lot of people who respect Terrion and speak highly of him as a person. We believe this is a great place to work, and people can become the best version of themselves if they’re given a chance.”

Seahawks quarterback Jalen Milroe, who played with Arnold at Alabama, also played an important role in supporting the move. Milroe, who was featured in the documentary series Hard Knocks, called Arnold his “best friend” and expressed hope that he would become a “difference-maker” for the team. Assistant head coach Karl Scott, who previously tried to recruit Arnold to Alabama, also spoke in his support.

However, the darker side of the signing cannot be ignored. The NFL retains the right to place Arnold on the Commissioner’s Exempt List, which would effectively bar him from games and practices indefinitely while the league investigates the circumstances of the case. In that situation, he would not count against the 53-man roster limit but would continue to receive his salary and could attend team meetings. Macdonald acknowledged uncertainty about when—and how much—Arnold might be able to play this season, but said that “anything is possible.” The team has already indicated that it expects him to be available for preseason games, but his status for the regular season will depend on the league’s decision.

On the field, Arnold will likely immediately enter the competition for a spot in the cornerback rotation. The Seahawks already have two starting outside corners in Devon Witherspoon and Josh Jobe, who also played with Arnold at Alabama. However, the third cornerback spot, used in nickel packages, remains open. Nehemiah Pritchett currently holds the position, while rookie Julian Neal and free agent Noah Igbinoghene are also competing. Since Neal has not practiced since July because of an injury, Arnold could have an opportunity to make an impression soon. For the team, this is a chance to acquire a former first-round talent at a minimal cost. The price of that gamble, however, is reputational damage and the possibility of disciplinary action from the league. Seattle is clearly betting that Arnold’s potential will outweigh his problems and that he can return to his high level in a new environment.

Seattle Plans a Surprise: Jalen Milroe and Drew Lock to Split Time in Preseason Opener

The Seattle Seahawks’ preseason preparations are entering a decisive stage, and the team’s first exhibition game against the Dallas Cowboys promises to be far more intriguing than expected. Head coach Mike Macdonald has made an unconventional decision: instead of the traditional arrangement in which one backup quarterback plays the first half and another plays the second, he plans to rotate Drew Lock and Jalen Milroe throughout the game. According to the coach, this approach will give both players valuable experience working with different groups and allow them to showcase their strengths in real-game conditions. Starting quarterback Sam Darnold and most of the first-team players will remain on the bench, making the game an ideal opportunity to evaluate the roster’s depth.

Particular attention will be focused on Jalen Milroe, selected in the third round of the 2025 draft. He played just three snaps last season, and the coaching staff is eager to see how the young player performs with a heavier workload. Macdonald made no secret of his enthusiasm:

“I’m excited to see him go out there and show what he can do. He’s really improved his game, and I want him to be himself. There’s room for different styles of play in our system, and I want Jalen to feel comfortable and play his brand of football—the way he does in practice. Now it’s time to do it in a game situation.”

Lock, meanwhile, played just 38 snaps last season, and the Seahawks want to make sure their backup quarterback can effectively replace the starter if necessary.

The quarterback situation is not the only personnel issue facing the team. First-round pick Jadarian Price will miss the game because of soreness in the lower part of his body, although Macdonald said he is already on the road to recovery and could return to full practice soon. The running back situation has been complicated by injuries: Emanuel Wilson missed three days of practice after suffering an injury Tuesday, while Ja’Cariah Wright also remains sidelined. As a result, the Seahawks will have four healthy running backs available against Dallas: George Holani, Velus Jones Jr., T.J. Harden and Justin Jones. The latter two were signed just 10 days ago to bolster the team’s depth.

Safety Nick Emmanwori also deserves attention. He was removed from the physically unable to perform list this week after undergoing arthroscopic ankle surgery in July. Although he has not yet returned to full practice, his removal from the list allows him to participate in other aspects of team work, including meetings and film study. Macdonald said this gives the player a chance to “start doing football” rather than simply watching his teammates from the sideline. The coaching staff remains cautiously optimistic about the timetable for his full return, although no exact date has been set.

There is also some good news: fullback Robbie Oates, who was placed on injured reserve because of neck issues, could return to football as early as 2027. According to Macdonald, the planned medical procedure should help the player in the long term, and the injury is not considered career-ending. Oates, selected by Alabama in the fifth round of the 2025 draft, played in 12 regular-season games and in the playoff victory over San Francisco, but missed the conference championship game and Super Bowl because of neck problems. The coach called it an “unfortunate situation” but expressed hope for a positive outcome from treatment.

As for the rest of the roster, linebacker Derick Hall missed Friday’s practice because of an injury to his leg or foot, but Macdonald assured reporters that it was not serious and would not result in a long-term absence. Cornerback Julian Neal was also absent while recovering from an injury. Overall, the coaching staff is trying to keep the team in a positive frame of mind:

“I’m excited to see our guys play tomorrow. They’ve earned the right to go out there and play their tails off, trusting their preparation and having fun.”

Macdonald added with a smile that he hoped to avoid “excessive celebration penalties,” hinting at the importance of discipline even in preseason games.

The upcoming game against Dallas, therefore, will be more than a formality. It will be an important step in evaluating the potential of the Seahawks’ young players and the depth of the roster. The duel between Lock and Milroe will be particularly interesting, as both quarterbacks are expected to receive equal opportunities to make their case. According to The Seattle Times, the coaching staff intends to use the game to gather as much information as possible about its reserves before the regular season begins. All that remains is to wait for Saturday evening to see which quarterback can take a decisive step forward in the battle for a place in the starting lineup.

Mariners Patch Up Roster Ahead of Astros Clash: Latest News from Seattle

In the middle of a nine-game road trip, the Seattle Mariners are opening a crucial series against the AL West leaders, the Houston Astros. As the team prepares for the important matchup, the coaching staff must solve several personnel puzzles: some players are returning from injury, while others are being sidelined at the worst possible moment. The situation in the Mariners’ camp resembles a storm that occasionally calms before gathering strength again. The main storylines include the recovery of a promising pitcher, a veteran dealing with a wrist problem and an unplanned rotation in the field.

The biggest positive development for Seattle fans is the return of relief pitcher Carlos Vargas to game action. The 26-year-old right-hander, who has not yet appeared for the major-league club this season, has already made two rehab appearances in the organization’s farm system. He debuted Saturday with the Everett AquaSox of the High-A league, pitching a scoreless inning against the Vancouver Canadians. He then moved to Tacoma and took the mound Tuesday for the Triple-A Rainiers. Against the Reno Aces, he allowed no runs, giving up only two hits and recording one strikeout. The right lat strain he suffered near the end of spring training appears to be behind him.

Last season, Vargas was one of the team’s busiest relievers. His 77 innings ranked second among all Seattle middle relievers, while his 3.97 ERA, 54 strikeouts and 23 walks demonstrated his value to the bullpen. He was especially important in the playoffs, appearing in six games and pitching seven innings.

The overall picture, however, is less encouraging. Infielder J.P. Crawford, who has not played since July 29 because of inflammation in his left wrist, apparently will not return before the end of the current road trip. Team insider Shannon Drayer reported the news Thursday morning on Seattle Sports radio. Crawford, a veteran and one of the clubhouse leaders, has been placed on the injured list, and his absence is clearly affecting the team’s depth. It remains unclear when he will be able to resume full baseball activities, but Seattle does not intend to rush him back for fear of a recurrence.

The situation involving newcomer Taylor Ward adds another complication. Acquired just before the August 3 trade deadline, Ward has already established himself as one of the Mariners’ most notable additions. However, he was not in the starting lineup Thursday against the New York Yankees because of quadriceps tightness. According to Ryan Divish of The Seattle Times, the move was precautionary, but for a team fighting for every divisional win, losing even one game from a key player can be significant. Ward is expected to return within the next few days, but his condition will be evaluated immediately before the game.

The situation involving second baseman Cole Young also deserves attention. The talented rookie, one of the team’s breakout players this season, left Wednesday’s game in New York because of dizziness. He was not in the starting lineup Thursday for the first time all season, although the coaching staff kept him available on the bench. Young entered in the seventh inning as a pinch-hitter and remained in the game through the end, extending his impressive streak—he has appeared in each of Seattle’s more than 100 games this year. That suggests Young’s condition is improving, and he will likely return to the starting lineup Friday against the Astros. The young player’s toughness and determination not to let his team down are admirable, but the medical staff will undoubtedly continue to monitor him closely.

As the team prepares for the series in Houston, which begins Friday at 5:15 p.m. local time, fans can watch Seattle try to balance caution around injuries with the need to keep accumulating wins. These games are extremely important for the Mariners. Their deficit behind the Astros in the standings is not yet disastrous, but every loss could prove decisive in the race for the postseason. In addition to Vargas, the club continues to work actively in the market: recently, the Mariners claimed a former University of Washington catcher off waivers and also put in a claim on a pitcher from a direct competitor, the Texas Rangers. These moves show that management does not intend to stand still and is looking for every possible way to strengthen the roster in the middle of the race.

Ultimately, although the personnel problems create additional challenges, there is cautious optimism in Seattle’s camp. Carlos Vargas’ return and Cole Young’s progress offer hope that the team’s core can withstand the pressure. The next key questions concern the conditions of Taylor Ward and J.P. Crawford, and whether Seattle can approach the decisive stretch of the season at full strength. Updates can be followed on Seattle Sports, where these important statements were made Thursday morning.

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Asteroid Fireball Streaks Across Pacific Northwest

On Friday night, residents of the northwestern United States and British Columbia spotted a bright fireball streaking across the sky. Karina Marquardt of Spokane County initially thought lightning had flashed, but the sky was clear. A security camera at her home captured two bursts of light—first yellow-white, then blue-green.

The event occurred on the final day of the Perseid meteor shower’s peak, but NASA clarified that the object was unrelated to it. It was a fragment of an asteroid about 16 inches in diameter and weighing approximately 170 pounds. It traveled about 36 miles through the upper atmosphere at roughly 33,000 mph before disintegrating, releasing energy equivalent to the explosion of 10 tons of TNT.

The U.S. Geological Survey identified the object as a bolide—a large meteor—and published an infrasound signal recorded by instruments near several volcanoes. More than 250 people told the American Meteor Society they had seen the bright trail from northern Oregon to British Columbia. Despite smoke from wildfires, clouds and light pollution, many residents of the region were able to witness the rare spectacle.

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Based on: Fireball seen over Pacific Northwest, but it wasn’t Perseids meteor shower

Seattle to Allocate $300,000 to Support Transgender Residents

The Seattle City Council unanimously approved allocating $300,000 to local LGBTQ+ organizations. The funds will support emergency housing, food, transportation, employment assistance and other basic services for transgender residents, including people arriving from states with anti-transgender laws.

Washington is considered one of the most protective regions in the United States for transgender people because of its nondiscrimination laws, access to gender-affirming health care and relatively supportive state policies. However, many newcomers face high rents, a shortage of affordable housing, long waits for medical and social services, documentation issues and difficulties finding work. For people without savings, transportation or local connections, relocating can quickly lead to homelessness.

The decision came after more than 100 people spoke at public hearings. Michael Woodward, executive director of the nonprofit Traction, said the forced relocation of transgender people had become an “emergency civil situation” and that the need for assistance continued to grow. Traction called the funding an important first step that would provide actual shelter beds, transit passes, groceries and housing assistance.

Lambert House and Entre Hermanos are among the organizations providing such assistance in the region. Mary’s Place, YouthCare and Chief Seattle Club also work in homelessness services and housing support. The specific list of grant recipients will be determined through the city’s program.

According to Traction, since the November 2024 election, the organization has helped approximately 1,500 transgender people leave conservative states—20 times more than during the previous 18 months. A Movement Advancement Project study published in October 2025 estimated that about 400,000 transgender and nonbinary people had moved to another state after the election, while another 1.2 million had considered doing so.

Local activists say that more people are arriving in Seattle from regions that restrict the rights of transgender residents, while charitable funding for LGBTQ+ organizations is declining. Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck said that under Donald Trump’s administration, many grant opportunities had disappeared, while private donors had also begun withdrawing support, placing significant strain on nonprofit organizations.

Rinck, who proposed the amendment, will work with the Seattle LGBTQ+ Commission and local leaders to identify the organizations that would benefit most from the funds. The commission advises city officials, helps establish priorities and may participate in evaluating applications, but final decisions on budget allocations are made by the mayor and City Council.

She acknowledged that $300,000 was a significant amount, but insufficient compared with the scale of the need; some participants at the public hearings called it merely “the bare minimum.” The money will come from the JumpStart Fund, which is financed primarily through a tax on large companies and used for city-approved purposes, including affordable housing, homelessness assistance and support for vulnerable groups.

Redirecting the funds does not mean that money will automatically be taken from the Northgate Commons affordable housing project. It involves redirecting funds that have not yet been allocated or making a budget adjustment that must be approved by the relevant Seattle authorities. Under the amendment, Northgate Commons will be able to complete construction even after its funding is reduced.

The funding is included in a midyear supplemental budget that Mayor Katie Wilson still needs to sign. The LGBTQ+ Commission previously asked the mayor to declare a state of emergency over the situation facing transgender rights, but she declined while acknowledging the need for action. With more than 500 anti-transgender bills introduced across the United States this year, activists are urging the city to distribute the funds as soon as possible; Rinck expects to identify the recipients within a week.

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Based on: City Council approves $300K to aid trans community

Dangerous fire weather warning issued for Washington mountains

The U.S. National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for parts of the Olympic Mountains and Cascades from Thursday afternoon through 9 p.m. Forecasters expect isolated and, in some areas, more widespread thunderstorms, which may bring wind gusts of 20–30 mph (approximately 32–48 km/h). Such conditions can rapidly spread existing fires and spark new ones: lightning can ignite dry vegetation, while wind can carry the flames.

Seattle meteorologist Dev McMillian noted that unusually low snowpack last winter set the stage for an especially dangerous fire season in the mountains. Much of eastern Washington has already received similar warnings several times this month; fires have destroyed hundreds of homes and burned hundreds of thousands of acres. Such warnings are far less common in the western part of the state, but a new wave of wildfire smoke reached Seattle on Wednesday evening, turning the sunset hazy and smoky.

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Based on: WA wildfires: Red flag warning issued for Olympics, Cascades

The Right Tide for a Walk Beneath the Dock

During the early low tide on Aug. 12, beach walkers took the opportunity to pass beneath the Edmonds ferry terminal. The Seattle Times photographer Kevin Clark captured the unusual route, accessible only when the water level is low enough.

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Based on: The right tide for a walk beneath the dock

Seattle to Study How to Make Preschool Accessible to All

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson and members of the City Council are promoting universal access to preschool education and child care. In 2027, the Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL) will begin a study to determine how to create such a system amid rising costs for child care and preschool.

The study will examine whether preschool and child care services could be made free for everyone, which families should be served first and how the program could be funded. According to Wilson, every Seattle resident should have access to high-quality, affordable child care regardless of income or neighborhood.

Currently, the Seattle Preschool Program (SPP) provides free or subsidized slots primarily for children ages 3 to 4. The program is funded at the city level and complements Washington state initiatives, including Working Connections Child Care, as well as federal assistance such as Head Start and tax credits for families with children. However, combined support generally does not cover all costs: the amount depends on family income, the child’s age, eligibility and the availability of slots.

Just over $1 million has been allocated for the first year of the study from the Families, Education, Preschool, and Promise Levy (FEPP), which voters approved last November. The $1.3 billion local tax package already funds free meals for public-school students and the expansion of SPP. Later this year, DEEL will select a contractor and provide $200,000 for the study.

Creating a universal system is complicated by significant differences among the city’s neighborhoods. In less affluent communities, demand for child care is often higher while the choice of available slots is more limited. The industry also faces a worker shortage: the work requires significant skills but is relatively poorly paid and highly demanding. In addition, expensive housing and rent increase providers’ costs and make it difficult to hire employees who could live near their workplaces.

Researchers will survey families, examine the state of the industry and study the challenges faced by parents, guardians and child care workers. The study is intended to help identify a sustainable funding model involving the city budget, private-sector partnerships and state and local programs. Officials acknowledge, however, that financial support alone will not be enough: universal access will require expanding provider capacity, increasing wages and accounting for differences among neighborhoods. According to council members, it could still be several years before such a system is implemented.

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Based on: Seattle to conduct study on universal preschool and childcare - The Seattle Times

Seattle at the Center of Debate: Budget, Education and Baseball

Seattle is facing controversy over funding for transgender programs while launching a study on universal preschool and sending a young Mariners shortstop back to the minors.

Seattle Budget Dispute: $300,000 for Transgender Support Sparks Heated Debate

The Seattle City Council recently approved a budget amendment allocating $300,000 from the JumpStart fund to LGBTQIA+ organizations that assist transgender and queer people who have moved to the city. The decision sparked heated debate on a local radio program, where two opposing views clashed over the role of government, tax priorities and social justice. Talk-show host John Curley called the funding “pity” and an unjustified allocation of money to a special interest group, while his colleague Spike O’Neill defended the program, emphasizing that it concerns basic equality and assistance for people facing hostility in other states.

The conflict that unfolded live on air boils down to a fundamental question: Should taxpayers fund targeted programs for minorities, particularly when the city is dealing with problems such as homelessness and poor roads? Curley argues that the government should not “redistribute wealth” among groups based on officials’ sympathies or pity. In his view, nonprofits and private individuals are better suited to provide targeted assistance without bureaucratic delays. He also drew a comparison with years of spending on homelessness, which, he claimed, merely attracts more people to the city rather than solving the problem. O’Neill responded that criticism should be directed at officials who manage resources ineffectively, not at those who need support. He stressed that choosing between tax breaks for large businesses and social protection is a matter of priorities, and that society should help its most vulnerable members.

The debate reflects a broader divide in American society, particularly in progressive cities such as Seattle, where liberal values have traditionally been strong but dissatisfaction with high taxes and ineffective city programs is growing. To understand the context, it is important to know what the JumpStart fund is: a tax on large companies with highly paid employees, introduced in 2020 to address the effects of the pandemic and fund social programs. Its resources often become the subject of controversy, as right-wing critics view such spending as “handouts” to lobbying groups. Supporters, meanwhile, argue that helping transgender people who are moving to Seattle in large numbers because of discriminatory laws in other states—such as bans on medical care or sports participation—is not about granting “special privileges,” but about leveling the playing field. According to O’Neill, asking to be treated equally is not a request for privilege but a demand for basic fairness.

An article published by MyNorthwest.com shows that even in progressive Seattle, such decisions face opposition. Curley used the vivid metaphor “don’t feed the bears,” comparing assistance programs to feeding wild animals that lose their ability to fend for themselves. Although O’Neill strongly rebuked the comparison, it illustrates a common conservative argument that social programs create dependency. Notably, Curley later acknowledged that the issue was not any particular group but the principle of how public funds are allocated. His opponent, however, insists that if society wants to be civilized, it must care for its most vulnerable members, even when doing so appears “unprofitable” from a purely economic standpoint.

For readers unfamiliar with the issue, it is worth explaining that the JumpStart fund does not consist of federal money. It comes from a local tax paid by companies with annual revenues exceeding $7 million and individual employees earning more than $150,000. The decision to direct part of that money specifically to transgender organizations is a symbolic gesture showing that the city wants to serve as a safe haven for people fleeing repressive policies in Texas, Florida and other states. It is not yet known how the $300,000 will be distributed, but experts believe the money will go toward legal assistance, housing programs and mental-health support.

Ultimately, the radio debate is only the tip of the iceberg. At stake is the question of who sets the city’s priorities: bureaucrats choosing “sympathetic” groups, or taxpayers who want to see tangible results in the form of potholes repaired and safer streets. For now, both sides remain firmly entrenched, and compromise seems unlikely. But one thing is clear: Seattle will continue to be an arena for ideological battles, where every budget dollar becomes the subject of fierce debate.

Seattle Lays Groundwork for Universal Preschool: City Allocates $1 Million for Ambitious Study

Seattle officials have taken an important step toward making preschool and child care available to every family, regardless of income. Mayor Katie Wilson and members of the City Council announced the launch of a comprehensive study designed to determine exactly how the city could implement this ambitious and costly initiative. This is not simply an expansion of existing programs, but the creation of a universal system that could radically change the lives of thousands of parents who currently spend a substantial portion of their budgets on child care—or give up their careers altogether to raise their children.

According to information published by The Seattle Times, the study will begin in 2027 under the Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL). Just over $1 million has already been earmarked for it from the recently approved property tax known as the Families, Education, Preschool, and Promise Levy (FEPP), which voters approved in November of last year. The $1.3 billion levy is broadly intended to support educational initiatives, including free school meals and the creation of new slots in Seattle’s existing preschool program. The study, however, will provide the intellectual foundation for future reforms.

The key question researchers must answer concerns the funding model. Mayor Wilson emphasizes that access to quality child care should not depend on a family’s ZIP code or bank account, but behind that slogan lie extremely complex economic calculations. City Councilmember Rob Saka, a longtime supporter of the idea, openly identifies the main obstacle: “We’re not going to voters anytime soon for another tax. What’s the funding plan? That’s the biggest open question.” Indeed, previous experience shows that even generous budget infusions may prove insufficient when the goal is to reach every preschool-age child.

As part of the study, DEEL plans not only to examine financial mechanisms—including public-private partnerships and funding from other sources—but also to conduct extensive surveys of families and early-learning professionals. Particular emphasis will be placed on equity: researchers intend to determine who should receive free slots first—families with the lowest incomes, parents with multiple children, or perhaps everyone without exception. The labor market will also be analyzed to determine how to attract and retain qualified educators amid growing demand.

The search for a contractor to conduct the study will begin this year, with $200,000 allocated for the first phase. The study itself is expected to take at least a year, but officials acknowledge that practical results will not appear soon. Responding to a question about the timeline, Saka offered cautious optimism: “If I had a crystal ball, I’d like to see it happen next year, but realistically, it will take several years.” This delay is due not only to bureaucratic procedures but also to the need to build a sustainable system that will not collapse at the first sign of economic instability.

For many Seattle families, where the average cost of child care has reached astronomical levels, the news offers a glimmer of hope. Experts warn, however, that universal programs are a double-edged sword: on the one hand, they ease parents’ financial burden; on the other, they require enormous public expenditures and may face staffing shortages. The study commissioned by the city is intended to find a balance between these extremes. Its results could serve as a road map not only for Seattle but potentially for other U.S. cities watching this experiment with interest. For now, parents will have to be patient and watch as the city turns lofty promises into concrete plans, moving step by step toward a reality in which preschool is no longer a luxury.

Mariners Send Young Shortstop Colt Emerson Back to Triple-A

Seattle appears to have finally acknowledged that 21-year-old Colt Emerson’s first taste of the major leagues did not go as planned. The Mariners made the difficult but expected decision to send their top prospect back to the Tacoma Rainiers after 68 games in the majors. Seattle Sports insider Shannon Drayer reported the move. Emerson’s spot on the major-league roster will be taken by 26-year-old utility player Brock Rodden, who is set to make his MLB debut after recently serving mainly as an emergency option in case of injuries.

Emerson, selected in the first round of the 2023 draft directly out of high school, began his major-league career with considerable promise. Called up in mid-May, he looked like a future star during his first 15 games, posting a .271 batting average, three home runs and an impressive .935 OPS. It appeared that Seattle had found its shortstop for the next decade. Since then, however, he has looked like a different player. Over the following two-plus months, his numbers collapsed to a discouraging .190 average and a .581 OPS. Strikeouts became the main problem: he recorded 83 of them compared with just 15 walks. His 34.4% strikeout rate is nearly twice what it was in the minors, where he had been far more disciplined.

It appears that major-league pitchers quickly identified the young talent’s weaknesses. In the minors, he could afford mistakes and rely on his natural ability, but at this level every flaw in his swing or pitch selection is punished mercilessly. It is hardly surprising that the club’s front office, now fighting desperately for a playoff spot, decided to send him down for a reset. Mentally, he clearly needs to catch his breath; technically, he needs to work on pitch selection and cutting down on easy swings.

The Mariners, however, have problems more pressing than a rookie’s adjustment. The team is third in the division with a 57–65 record, five games behind the division-leading Houston Astros. A six-game losing streak ended Thursday only because of a narrow 1–0 victory over the Yankees. It was the club’s only 10th win in its last 35 games—a disastrous mark for a team that led the division as recently as early July. The Mariners now face a crucial series in Houston and cannot afford to drop points.

Under the circumstances, the Mariners will look for Emerson’s replacement from within the organization. Starting shortstop J.P. Crawford is on the injured list, so the coaching staff will have to get creative. Options include utility player Leo Rivas and Brock Rodden, who performed reasonably well at several positions in Tacoma, from second base to the outfield. Regular second baseman Cole Young could also play shortstop, while veteran Brendan Donovan, who has mostly played third base, could be asked to try the middle infield.

Questions also remain about how Rodden’s promotion will affect the team. His Triple-A statistics—.262 with 19 home runs and an .841 OPS in 92 games—are not outstanding, but he gives the coaching staff flexibility and brings fresh energy. The club is clearly betting that the roster change will jolt a lineup that has looked depleted in recent weeks. As for Emerson, his assignment to Tacoma is not a verdict but rather a pause in his development. If he handles the pressure and rebuilds his approach, he could still return to Seattle this fall. Whether that happens this season will become clear after he begins showing his best qualities in the minors again.

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Why It’s Important to Keep Jimothy Wild

Jimothy, a small raccoon with a shortened spine, became a prominent Seattle internet celebrity in just one month. He brought residents together, inspired artists, and a painting by local muralist Ryan Henry Ward raised more than $270,000 for the Ballard Food Bank. At the same time, Jimothy’s image began to be widely commercialized: T-shirts, mugs, stickers and a children’s book appeared online.

The raccoon even attracted the attention of the Mariners baseball team, the Seattle Storm basketball team and politicians. However, experts emphasize that Jimothy is not a pet but a wild animal. In urban areas, raccoons are drawn to easily accessible food, trash, pet food and shelter — attics, spaces beneath decks and dense vegetation. Chris Anderson, a biologist with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, urges people to watch Jimothy from a distance, not feed him and not accustom him to people’s constant presence.

According to Anderson, authorities have not yet received reports that anyone is deliberately luring or harassing the raccoon. But as his popularity grows, so does the risk of interference in his life. If Jimothy becomes accustomed to receiving food from people or being constantly near them, he could become aggressive or turn into a “problem” animal that poses a threat to people and pets, causes serious property damage or repeatedly enters buildings despite efforts to stop it. In such cases, especially if rabies or another serious threat is suspected, euthanasia may be necessary.

Before that point, experts generally recommend removing sources of food and shelter, preventing the animal from entering the home, using safe trapping equipment and, when necessary, contacting a licensed wildlife-control professional. In some cases, a raccoon may be professionally relocated, but this is regulated by state rules, is not always permitted and does not guarantee safety.

There is also a risk to people with pets: if a person or dog gets too close to a raccoon, it may provoke an attack that can sometimes result in a trip to the hospital. Residents can reduce the risk of conflicts by using locking trash containers, covering compost, not leaving pet food outdoors and securing access points to homes, attics and outbuildings. Motion-activated lights and sprinklers may provide additional protection. If Jimothy enters a yard, he should be discouraged safely — but never fed.

Residents can peacefully coexist with the raccoon by photographing him from a safe distance and allowing him to lead a normal wild life. Anderson stresses that people should not turn Jimothy into a “Pokémon” or a pet. The less attention, food and interference he receives, the better the chances that Jimothy will remain healthy and continue living in his natural environment.

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Based on: As Jimothy reaches cultural saturation, remember to keep him wild

Kirkland to Turn Former Mormon Church into Community Center

Kirkland officials have agreed to buy a building and property owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Kingsgate neighborhood for $10 million. That is $2.7 million more than the asking price set in March, but the church agreed to sell the property specifically to the city despite several offers exceeding $10 million.

The deal involves a 3.28-acre site with approximately 15,600 square feet of indoor space at 13220 N.E. 132nd St. According to Lynn Zwaagstra, director of Kirkland’s Parks and Community Services Department, numerous developers expressed interest in the property, but the church preferred to preserve its community use.

Kingsgate has historically developed without sufficient public investment or a full-service community center. Although residents use Northshore School District facilities, the King County Library System branch and King County Metro buses, the neighborhood has not had a single place for classes, meetings and social programs.

The city plans to make few changes to the building: It already includes gyms, small classrooms and spacious rooms suitable for arts, music, preschool and sports programs. Before opening the center, officials plan to study residents’ needs, consult with the community and compare the future services with those offered at the city’s two existing community centers to avoid duplicating their work. Programs for teenagers, older adults, families and people with disabilities could receive priority.

Part of the property may also be considered for affordable housing. Kingsgate is regarded as one of Kirkland’s less affluent and historically underserved neighborhoods.

The exact opening date for the community center is not yet known. However, immediately after the transaction is completed, the city wants to open a large field to residents, where children can play for free. This will be especially important for families at the nearby Kirkland Heights apartment complex, where 276 affordable units were recently added after a renovation, many of them occupied by children.

The new center should ease pressure on the city’s two other community centers, which already lack space for classes and sports activities. The deal also reflects a broader trend: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has put at least six properties in the Seattle area up for sale — in South Seattle, Mercer Island, Bellevue, Redmond, Auburn and Kirkland. Most are already under contract; a married couple purchased the former Redmond church for $5.05 million and plans to turn it into a place of worship for another spiritual tradition.

The sale of several buildings is linked to the church’s efforts to optimize its real estate holdings, changes in membership and maintenance costs, and a reassessment of how local meetinghouses are used. It comes amid declining attendance at religious services across the state.

At the same time, the church intends to build its seventh temple in Washington, likely in Marysville, although the location and construction timeline have not been announced. A temple is a special religious structure used for sacred rites and does not replace ordinary meetinghouses, where regular worship services and local gatherings take place. Construction of a new temple can therefore continue independently of the sale of less-used properties.

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Based on: Kirkland buys former Latter-day Saints church for $10M

I-405 to I-90 ramp reopens after garbage truck crash

The ramp from northbound Interstate 405 to eastbound Interstate 90 reopened after an overturned truck closed it for several hours Thursday morning. The vehicle was carrying garbage, which spilled across the roadway after the crash. According to the Washington State Patrol, no one was injured and no other vehicles were involved. The state Department of Transportation reported the crash at about 4:20 a.m. and announced that traffic had resumed at approximately 9:15 a.m.

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Based on: I-405 ramp to I-90 reopens after semitruck flips, spills garbage

Seattle will continue accepting coins for parking

On Aug. 4, the Seattle City Council amended municipal rules to preserve the option of paying for parking with coins at all of the city’s more than 10,000 on-street parking spaces. The decision comes as many cities shift to digital payment methods and is intended to keep parking accessible to residents who do not have a smartphone, bank card or reliable internet access.

Only a small share of drivers use coins: about 80% pay for parking by phone, another 18% use bank cards, and cash accounts for just 1–2% of transactions. During the first half of this year, approximately 43,000 of Seattle’s roughly 4 million paid parking transactions were made with coins. This payment option is particularly important for people with low incomes, those without bank accounts, older residents and people who cannot or do not want to use mobile apps.

Councilmember Rob Saka, who proposed the amendment, called preserving coin payments an issue of equity. In his view, eliminating cash would make parking a service primarily available to people with modern phones and electronic payment methods.

At the same time, the city’s parking-meter revenue is declining: forecasts show a shortfall of about $5.9 million because of reduced demand after the pandemic and lower rates. In Covington, Kentucky, coins have also been retained; there, about 20% of parking revenue still comes through coin slots. Local officials note that cash payments are not subject to processing fees.

Other cities are taking the opposite approach. Vancouver, Canada, for example, disabled its coin slots in April and now accepts payment only by phone or bank card. Officials said the move was intended to simplify the system and reduce the cost of maintaining parking equipment. Residents complained, however, that parking had become more difficult for visitors and that digital payment sometimes required installing as many as six different apps.

Keeping coin payments available requires a separate system for collecting cash. The city’s Department of Finance and Administrative Services previously handled the task, but staffing shortages left it unable to keep up. Now, emptying the parking meters will be the responsibility of the SDOT team — the Seattle Department of Transportation, which already handles equipment maintenance.

Transferring the responsibility to SDOT should reduce the city’s reliance on outside contractors and give it greater control over collecting money, repairing and maintaining more than 10,000 meters. In the long term, this could improve the system’s reliability and reduce costs, but initially it will require spending on staff, transportation, equipment and the creation of an in-house operation. After collection, the coins will be stored in a secure location and then transferred to the Finance Department.

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Based on: Seattle ensures coins can always be used to pay for on-street parking

About 60 cats rescued from an abandoned yacht off Tacoma

On Sunday morning near Owen Beach in Tacoma, Jesse McConaha and Ashton Effertz spotted a cat swimming near a sailboat more than 100 feet from shore. They discovered that approximately 60 cats were on board. Rescuers helped the animals leave the abandoned yacht and brought them to shore, where they are expected to receive veterinary care and be placed in new homes. The boat’s owner offered his account of what happened, but the circumstances surrounding the presence of so many cats on the vessel and the extent of their neglect remain under investigation.

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Based on: 60 cats saved from abandoned Tacoma sailboat; owner tells his story

Seattle: New Rates, Political Storms and a Ban on Hidden Fees

A review of Seattle’s top stories: a 9.5% increase in electricity bills, an effort to recall Mayor Katie Wilson, and a ban on “junk fees” in rental housing. Find out how these changes could affect residents’ lives and the regional economy.

Seattle Prepares Residents for Higher Electricity Bills: Why Rates Will Rise 9.5%

Seattle residents, already accustomed to hefty utility bills, now have another reason to think about their household budgets. Municipal utility Seattle City Light has officially announced plans to raise rates by as much as 9.5% in 2027 and 2028. The decision has already been approved by the City Council, and although the new prices will not take effect immediately, utility officials say the increase is unavoidable and linked to a combination of factors—from ordinary inflation to the need to prepare for extreme weather.

Still, there is nothing extraordinary about the situation. Seattle City Light, like many other utilities across the United States, is facing pressure from three directions. First is inflation, which has sharply increased equipment costs. Consider this: between 2020 and 2025, prices for wires and cables jumped 93%, transformers became 23% more expensive, and ordinary wooden utility poles rose 19% in price. That alone makes any grid modernization extremely costly. Second, the city urgently needs to upgrade infrastructure that, as in any older American city, has been in service for decades. This includes underground cables that have reached the end of their useful life, generators at local hydroelectric plants, and digital control systems that will make it possible to locate and repair outages more quickly. Third, Seattle, like the Pacific Northwest as a whole, is experiencing a genuine boom in electricity demand. Over the next ten years, the city expects average consumption to rise by 13%, and by nearly 20% during peak winter cold spells.

Peak demand is especially important. Utility officials emphasize that cold winter days, when everyone turns on their heaters at once, are the biggest test for the grid. Getting through those periods without blackouts requires more than solar panels and wind turbines, which depend on the weather. It also requires so-called “firm capacity”—sources capable of supplying power on demand at any time. This means the city will have to invest in new transmission lines and possibly in gas-fired or pumped-storage hydroelectric plants that can quickly come online.

For an average household, all these investments will translate into a very specific number on the bill. According to the utility, the average residential customer will pay about $10 more per month starting in 2027, and another $10 more in 2028. At first glance, the amount may not seem catastrophic, but it represents a significant burden for retirees and low-income families. Seattle City Light is aware of this and points to existing assistance programs. For example, the Utility Discount Program offers a 60% discount to those who meet income requirements, while special funds can cover up to $1,670 in outstanding debt. Federal and state programs also help residents pay for heating, and a budget-billing system allows customers to pay a fixed amount each month instead of bills that fluctuate with the seasons.

One fact that may ease consumers’ concerns is that Seattle City Light is a municipal, nonprofit utility. That means it does not pay dividends to shareholders, and all collected funds go toward maintaining and developing the grid. As noted in a KOMO News article, the utility does not make a profit, which somewhat softens the blow of higher rates. The philosophy is simple: either the city invests in reliability now, or it will pay much more later through the consequences of failures and outages—events that are becoming more frequent and destructive in an era of climate change.

In essence, Seattle’s rate increase is not a bureaucratic whim but a necessary measure reflecting a nationwide trend. Across the country, power grids are aging, demand is rising because of electric vehicles and heat pumps, and the climate is delivering surprises in the form of extreme heat and cold. Residents should therefore view the 9.5% increase not as a punishment but as insurance against far more serious problems in the future. The only question is whether city officials can make the modernization effort effective enough that they will not have to revisit the issue again in a few years.

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson Recall Effort: Political Storm or Legal Formality?

Another political controversy is unfolding in Seattle: two residents have filed an official petition to recall Mayor Katie Wilson, accusing her of failing to ensure public safety. The initiative, submitted by Melinda Jacobson and Dale Osterud to the county elections office, has already attracted public attention, but experts doubt it will succeed, calling its prospects “extremely difficult.” It is not the first such effort in the city’s history—and, given the tensions surrounding Wilson’s first months in office, it may not be the last.

The allegations center on a series of decisions that the petitioners believe undermine public safety. They cite Wilson’s approach to troubled areas such as Aurora Avenue and Little Saigon, the shutdown of surveillance cameras in the stadium district after the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup, and her demand for the police chief’s resignation, made just two weeks ago. Jacobson, who says she voted for Wilson’s opponent, Bruce Harrell, in the last election, makes no secret of her disappointment: “I have nothing against her personally, but she is clearly in the wrong position. If we have to put up with this for almost another three and a half years, the city will go downhill, and you can’t even imagine how far.” Notably, the petitioner acknowledges that she consulted a lawyer while drafting the allegations and believes the mayor’s actions meet the definition of “abuse of office.”

The petition comes amid unprecedented pressure on Wilson from the City Council, African American religious leaders, and even some of her key supporters. During her first eight months in office, her decision to dismiss the police chief and her policy of installing—but not activating—surveillance cameras provoked open opposition. However, Hugh Spitzer, a University of Washington law professor and constitutional law expert, says the initiative’s legal prospects are highly uncertain. After reviewing the allegations, he said he saw no evidence that Wilson had violated specific laws or codes. “The petitioner appears to be pointing to mistakes in the mayor’s actions, not illegal or wrongful conduct,” Spitzer explained in an interview with KUOW. “So her chances of winning this case are slim.” According to Spitzer, state courts “regularly” block such recall attempts.

The historical context also works against the petitioners. In Seattle’s entire history, only two mayoral recalls have succeeded: Hiram Gill in 1911 and Frank Edwards in 1931. Significantly, both Gill and Edwards faced recall efforts because of official dismissals—of the fire chief and the head of City Light, respectively—while Gill also faced accusations of tolerating illegal gambling. In 1975, Mayor Wes Uhlman survived a recall attempt by a wide margin, while in 2020 the state Supreme Court rejected a petition against former Mayor Jenny Durkan before it reached voters. Even Kshama Sawant, a City Council member, barely survived a recall effort in 2021, winning by just over 300 votes. This illustrates how difficult it is for such initiatives to overcome all the procedural barriers.

The procedure described in the document works as follows: first, the county auditor or elections director certifies the allegations and serves them on the official. The county prosecutor then prepares a summary of up to 200 words for the ballot and gives it to both the petitioner and the subject of the recall. After that, the prosecutor sends the documents to a local court, where a hearing is scheduled. The petitioner presents the arguments, while the mayor or her representatives may challenge them. If the judge finds the allegations sufficient, recall supporters will have 180 days to collect roughly 70,000 signatures, which would likely lead to a vote next year. However, the chances of the case reaching that stage are extremely small. Wilson has not yet commented on the situation, but it is clear that the challenge will be a serious test for her, even if it ultimately proves legally unsound. The filing itself has already intensified political tensions in a city where public safety remains one of the most pressing issues.

Seattle Bans Rental “Junk Fees”: What It Means for Tenants and Landlords

The Seattle City Council has unanimously passed legislation that dramatically changes the rules of the rental housing market. The new law bans so-called “junk fees”—additional charges landlords often impose on top of base rent. These include administrative fees, pet fees, and even charges for receiving packages. The decision follows months of work by Mayor Katie Wilson, herself a renter, and City Councilmember Dionne Foster. They had repeatedly heard residents complain about unexpected costs that make housing less affordable.

Supporters of the law emphasize that its main goal is transparency. Tenants will now be able to compare rental offers based on their true cost rather than on an artificially low advertised price that later accumulates additional charges. As Ryan Karpenko, a Capitol Hill resident, put it, finding out that you have to pay more than expected is the worst-case scenario for a renter. Another resident, Dalia Al-Sagr, who recently moved to the city, shared her own experience: after signing a lease, she suddenly discovered that she would have to pay extra for her cat and car, putting a strain on her budget.

However, the measure also has a downside. The Washington Rental Housing Association, which represents independent landlords, says the new law is another burden on small businesses that will push smaller operators out of the market. Kevin Schilling, the association’s director of government affairs, warns of unintended consequences. In his view, banning pet fees will cause pet-related expenses to be “socialized” and distributed among all residents, including those without animals. He predicts that rents will not fall, housing quality will decline, and developers will lose the incentive to build new homes in Seattle. Ultimately, the market will be dominated by large corporate players backed by private equity, further limiting residents’ choices.

The law also establishes strict penalties for violators. City Attorney Erika Evans explained that landlords found to be illegally charging fees could face lawsuits, and the city could recover an amount equal to three times the illegally collected payments. This is intended to discipline the market and protect responsible landlords who follow the rules.

Put simply, “junk fees” are like hidden airline charges: you see one ticket price, but at checkout you discover that you must pay extra for baggage, seat selection, and even water. Seattle has decided to end this practice in the rental sector so residents know exactly how much their housing will cost. The measure is part of a broader U.S. effort to combat hidden fees, which is also receiving support at the federal level. Seattle’s initiative, described in detail in a KOMO News article, could become a model for other cities, but its long-term effects remain to be seen. One thing is certain: the fight for affordable housing in Seattle is entering a new phase, and the market must now adapt to the new rules.

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Seattle to Honor Historian Paul Dorpat

Paul Dorpat, a renowned historian of Seattle and Washington state, died May 27 at the age of 87. For many years, he enthusiastically shared the region’s history with residents, helping them better understand its development and cultural heritage. A public memorial event is planned in his honor; before the pandemic, Dorpat was also remembered for his kind and unusual habit of tossing French fries over his shoulder to the seagulls.

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Based on: Public memorial planned for Paul Dorpat, longtime Seattle historian

Where to Watch the Perseid Meteor Shower Near Seattle

The Perseid meteor shower is expected to peak Wednesday night, but Seattle residents may encounter clouds that interfere with viewing. To see more meteors, residents will likely have to travel a short distance from the city and choose a location with clearer skies and minimal light pollution.

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Based on: Clouds in way of Perseids meteor shower in Seattle. Here’s where to go

Smoke from wildfires will remain high above Seattle

Haze from wildfires in British Columbia continues to linger over downtown Seattle. A new weather front will bring smoke into the area, but it will remain in the upper atmosphere and have little effect on air quality at ground level. It will be noticeable only as a slight change in the colors of sunrise and sunset.

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Based on: Smoke in Seattle will stay high in the sky

Orcas at Ballard Locks Could Help Salmon Recovery

Several orcas were spotted near Ballard Locks in Seattle shortly after 5 p.m. Monday. Witnesses photographed and filmed their sleek black dorsal fins; experts believe they were transient, or Bigg’s, orcas. They were likely hunting seals and sea lions that live in the area.

Ballard Locks connect the freshwater lakes Washington and Union with the saltwater of Puget Sound. Migrating salmon pass through a narrow water corridor where slow currents and concentrations of fish attract sea lions, seals, birds and other predators. The structures also provide convenient resting places for wildlife.

Scientists note that orca encounters near the locks are rare but entirely possible: the channel is deep enough even for large yachts, so the animals could have safely navigated it using echolocation. The family of Alana Lyons, who was visiting from Georgia, saw the fish and seals suddenly disappear, then heard a splash and the cries of onlookers. Lyons counted at least four orcas and thought one might have been a calf.

August is the peak season for sockeye salmon and the especially important chinook salmon to pass through the locks. At this time, predators concentrate around the structures because salmon must navigate a narrow stretch of their route. According to marine biologist Deborah Giles, the arrival of orcas that feed on marine mammals could provide a natural way to reduce pressure on salmon. In her view, there is no better deterrent than a real orca.

For more than a decade, experts, lawmakers and Indigenous representatives have discussed how to reduce salmon losses. Proposals have included acoustic deterrents, recordings of orca calls and even the culling of some marine mammals. Today, the focus is primarily on nonlethal measures: monitoring and counting animals, changing the timing or operation of the locks, installing guide structures and barriers, improving fish passageways, and using acoustic methods to temporarily drive predators away.

Indigenous representatives emphasize that restoring salmon requires protecting their entire life cycle—from improving water quality and habitat to ensuring access to spawning grounds. The killing of marine mammals remains a highly controversial and legally restricted option.

In 1996, the city of Seattle lowered a 52-foot plastic orca, nicknamed “False Willie,” into the water near the locks in the hope of scaring away marine mammals. The plan failed, and the structure itself sparked public and ethical controversy. It was removed and has been displayed near the visitor center since 2019. Now real orcas may be able to accomplish what their plastic replica could not.

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Based on: Orca sighting at Ballard Locks is great news for salmon - The Seattle Times

Washington Keeps Existing Requirements for Childhood Vaccinations

Washington state’s vaccination requirements for children attending schools, preschools, and day care centers will not change in the new school year. The state Department of Health made the announcement after President Donald Trump signed an executive order calling for a review of federal recommendations on childhood vaccinations.

The order calls for reducing the number of vaccines recommended for all children in the United States, as well as splitting the combined MMR vaccine against measles, mumps, and rubella into three separate shots. Public health experts, including specialists in the Pacific Northwest, criticized the initiatives, citing decades of research demonstrating the effectiveness of the current vaccination schedule.

States set their own vaccination requirements for students, so the federal order does not directly change Washington’s rules. State law requires proof of immunity against 11 diseases, including chickenpox and whooping cough, to attend a school, preschool, or day care center.

Washington allows exemptions from most required vaccinations for medical, religious, personal, or philosophical reasons. However, since 2019, personal and philosophical exemptions have not applied to the MMR vaccine. The change was adopted after major measles outbreaks, including a 2019 outbreak in Clark County, to increase vaccination coverage and protect children who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons. As a result, the state’s rules are stricter than those in regions where nonmedical exemptions remain available for all vaccines, but less strict than in states that have eliminated such exemptions entirely.

Under state recommendations, children should receive their first MMR dose between 12 and 15 months of age and their second dose at 4 to 6 years old. In the 2025–26 school year, about 95% of Washington students were vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella, but the rate among first-graders was approximately 90% — below the roughly 95% level needed to prevent sustained measles transmission. The share of MMR exemptions continues to rise gradually: it reached about 2.8% among all children and approximately 4.5% among first-graders.

The rate among first-graders is especially important to health officials because this group is regularly replenished and provides a way to assess the protection of children starting school. Statewide averages can conceal schools and districts with much lower vaccination coverage. Such vulnerable clusters create conditions for measles to spread rapidly, so data on first-graders help identify problem areas, conduct outreach, and verify compliance with requirements before an outbreak begins.

A representative for the state attorney general said the office would study the order’s potential consequences for Washington but had not yet decided whether to file a lawsuit. The Department of Health urged residents to follow current recommendations and discuss questions with their doctors. Scientific and medical organizations again emphasized that extensive research has found no link between childhood vaccines and autism spectrum disorders, despite repeated claims by Trump.

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Based on: WA childhood vaccine rules not changing, state health leaders say

Orcas, a Ban on “Junk” Fees and a Seattle Tragedy: Top Stories

Orcas at the Ballard Locks unexpectedly became allies in the effort to save salmon, Seattle banned landlords from charging pet rent and hidden fees, and the tragic death of a 19-year-old at the Bite of Seattle festival left many questions unanswered.

Orcas at the Ballard Locks: An Unexpected Ally in the Fight to Save Salmon

On Monday evening, an event at Seattle’s Ballard Locks caught the attention of passersby and marine biologists alike. Several gleaming black fins cut through the water: transient orcas, known as Bigg’s killer whales, which occasionally enter the waters of the Salish Sea. For dozens of onlookers, it was an unforgettable sight. For experts, it offered grounds for cautious optimism, as the predators’ appearance could be good news for salmon populations that have struggled for decades to survive.

Scientists explain that the orcas’ visit to the area was unlikely to be accidental. These marine mammals are highly adaptable and will not pass up an opportunity to hunt seals and sea lions, which gather in large numbers near the locks while waiting for easy prey. Deborah Giles, a scientist with the SeaDoc Society, noted that although such appearances are rare, the orcas face no obstacles navigating these waters. The channel is deep enough even for large yachts, and echolocation allows them to move with confidence.

For Alana Lyons, a Fremont resident, the day was a special one. She had come to the locks with family visiting from Georgia to show them the real Pacific Northwest. Suddenly, the fish and seals disappeared, a splash was heard, and the crowd broke into applause. Lyons managed to record at least two orcas on video, although she said there were at least four. Her stepfather even spotted what may have been a calf swimming alongside an adult. It was the closest encounter with an orca she had ever experienced.

The most intriguing aspect of the event, however, is its potential significance for salmon recovery. August is the peak season for chinook salmon passing through the locks, and the fish often congregate here around the man-made structure, becoming easy prey. Seals, sea lions and fish-eating birds have long claimed this area, and their predation has become a serious problem. Debate over how to control their numbers has continued for more than a decade. Proposed methods have ranged from noisemakers and deterrent devices to recordings of orca calls. Some politicians have even advocated legalizing the shooting of these marine mammals.

In this context, the appearance of real orcas — natural predators of seals and sea lions — is what Giles calls the “best-case scenario” for salmon. “There is no more effective deterrent than a mammal-eating orca,” she said. Interestingly, in 1996 the city tried using an artificial substitute: a 16-foot fiberglass orca nicknamed “Fake Willy,” intended to scare predators away from schools of fish. The idea failed. Marine animals were not fooled, and the project was abandoned. Today, the artifact can be seen near the locks’ visitor center, where it was returned in 2019.

It is telling that real orcas may accomplish what their synthetic counterpart could not. Still, it is important to understand that these are transient orcas that hunt mammals and are unrelated to the famous endangered southern resident orca population, which feeds on fish. Even so, the event is a reminder of the ecosystem’s fragile balance — and of the way nature sometimes finds solutions where human efforts fall short. One can only hope that such visits will become more than an isolated occurrence and form part of a natural mechanism that helps salmon numbers recover.

Seattle Bans “Junk” Fees for Renters: Why Pet Rent Is Disappearing

The Seattle City Council has adopted a historic measure that radically changes the rules of the rental housing market. Landlords will no longer be allowed to charge tenants pet rent or impose various additional fees that housing advocates have long dubbed “junk fees.” The decision is a major victory for thousands of renters who have complained for years about opaque charges that often increase their monthly expenses by 10% to 30%.

The new legislation is simple and sweeping: beginning July 1, 2027, all Seattle landlords must list the full cost of rent in advertisements, including any mandatory fees. They will also be prohibited from charging for services such as mail or package delivery and use of building access-control systems. The law gives the city’s Department of Construction and Inspections the authority to investigate landlords suspected of violating rules governing deposits and move-in payments. That gives officials a real enforcement tool against unscrupulous property owners, including the power to subpoena them for questioning.

Interestingly, lawmakers did not impose a complete ban on all pet-related charges. Landlords may still require a pet deposit or compensation for damage caused by an animal. But the practice of charging monthly “rent” for a dog or cat has been deemed unfair and outdated. During public hearings, residents shared shocking stories. One Northgate resident said he paid nearly $100 a month for his “unemployed” dog and meaningless “common-area” fees. A woman with a cat complained that she was required to pay $75 a month for an animal that had never caused any damage. Animal-welfare organizations, including Seattle Humane and the ASPCA, strongly supported the bill, rightly noting that such fees not only strain household budgets but also force people to give up their pets.

There is, however, another side to the issue. Opponents of the law, particularly the Washington Rental Housing Association, which represents small property owners, warn that the ban will primarily hurt “mom-and-pop” landlords who lack large legal departments to navigate the new rules. Lobbyist Kevin Schilling, who is himself a member of the Burien City Council, raised a reasonable question: if a service is provided, someone has to pay for it. In his view, eliminating a separate line item on the bill will simply move those costs into the base rent. Tenants will ultimately pay the same amount, but without being able to understand how the price is structured. This is the classic economic argument that there is no such thing as a free lunch: if a property-management company spends resources handling packages or maintaining an elevator, those costs must be covered somehow.

Nevertheless, the council approved the measure by an almost unanimous vote — nine in favor and one abstention. Councilmember Marisa Rivera, who owns property herself, recused herself to avoid a conflict of interest. Bob Kettle of District 7, although he had tried to soften the law by allowing a limited pet fee, ultimately joined the majority. The victory became an important part of Mayor Katie Wilson’s agenda. During her campaign, she had repeatedly criticized hidden charges and identified combating them as a key element of her affordable-housing platform. A study by the Urban Institute in Denver found that additional fees can account for up to 30% of a monthly payment, making the new measure a powerful tool for reducing renters’ financial burden.

In effect, Seattle has entered a new era of rental regulation in which transparency takes precedence over the short-term profits of individual landlords. The concerns of small landlords are not entirely unfounded, and some will likely attempt to shift costs into base rent. The main benefit, however, is the legal protection renters gain from arbitrary and unjustified markups. Anyone renting an apartment in Seattle will now be able to know exactly what they are paying for before signing a lease and, if rules are violated, ask city authorities to investigate. It is an important precedent for the United States, where calls to rein in “junk fees” are growing louder. As is often the case with progressive initiatives, Seattle is at the forefront of that effort. More about the decision can be found in the KUOW article.

Seattle Tragedy: The Death of a 19-Year-Old and Questions Left Unanswered

More than two weeks have passed since a shooting at Seattle Center during the Bite of Seattle food festival killed three people and wounded at least four others. Yet police have provided extremely little information about the role of 19-year-old Junior C. Nico-Semo, who died in the incident. He has been described variously as a suspect, an “accomplice” of the arrested shooter and a victim. That uncertainty has only deepened the tragedy and raised numerous questions among the public, particularly because the victim’s family — and the family of the boy’s recently deceased father — have received few clear answers from authorities.

A witness who recorded police activity on a phone told investigators that, in his opinion, Nico-Semo was struck by the first volley of gunfire when the exchange began. Still, what exactly led to the tragedy and what role the young man played remain mysteries to the public. Police say they are looking for several suspects, but have not disclosed the exact number. Asked whether Nico-Semo’s fingerprints were found on one of the three guns recovered at the scene — one of which had no spent rounds at all — or whether he fired at anyone, the police department said the investigation was ongoing and declined to comment on specific details. Although police characterize the shooting as gang-related, the charging documents for the only arrested suspect, a 15-year-old, make no mention of gangs. Notably, after his arrest, the teenager walked past Nico-Semo’s body and said, “Love you, bro.”

Much about Nico-Semo’s life can be learned from King County court documents dating to the period when he was still a minor. In May 2024, at age 17, he was charged with unlawful possession of a firearm — specifically, a Glock that police said had been stolen from the Enumclaw Police Department and was equipped with a so-called bump stock, a device that increases its rate of fire. The teenager pleaded not guilty before Judge Joe Campagna, but the case was closed as part of a global resolution involving another 2023 case, whose details are sealed. In a hearing record from January 2025, Nico-Semo’s attorney told the court that his client had successfully completed a program at Urban Family and had begun a second program at Goodwill, where he developed work-related and emotional-regulation skills. He apparently had no adult criminal convictions, and the Renton School District confirmed that he had attended school there through the 2021–22 academic year.

The words of the leaders of organizations that tried to help the young man are especially poignant. Dominic Davis, founder and CEO of Community Passageways, one of Urban Family’s partners in the Regional Peacekeepers Collective program, said: “Some of my staff are hurting right now because he’s gone, and we were trying to save him. Our children mean everything to us. We can’t throw any of them away, and we don’t give up on anyone.” These organizations work with at-risk young people, trying to steer them away from street violence. According to Paul Patu of Urban Family, after incidents like this they try to stabilize the community and keep young people from seeking revenge, sometimes by organizing trips into nature. Davis emphasized that today’s street “gangs” are no longer structured organizations but more like “a bunch of little cliques,” and that many young people seeking a sense of belonging carry weapons. The leaders’ comments portray a young man who, they said, “was making an effort” and “reaching out for help,” but whose life was cut short. “He was trying, and it’s heartbreaking that he didn’t get the chance to blossom,” Davis added bitterly.

At a court hearing last year, Nico-Semo’s father, Charles Nico, spoke hopefully to the judge about the changes in his son: “He’s doing a lot better than he was before. He knows he’s not that little Junior anymore. He’s growing up ... He’s looking forward to graduating.” The tragic irony is that the day after his son’s death, Charles Nico died at his home in Kent at age 52. The medical examiner is still investigating the cause and circumstances of his death. When Judge Campagna closed Nico-Semo’s case, he wished him good luck. Those words now sound like a bitter echo of possibilities lost.

This story raises deep and uncomfortable questions about how society treats young people who find themselves on the margins of life. Should Nico-Semo be viewed merely as another statistic in a gang dispute, or is this a story of systemic failure, in which rehabilitation efforts collide with a harsh reality where access to guns and the desire for recognition prove stronger? The answers to those questions, like the details of the shooting itself, remain hidden in the files of an active investigation. The Seattle Times article notes that officials remain silent, leaving the public and the victim’s family in agonizing uncertainty about what truly happened that fateful evening and whether the death could have been prevented.

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It’s time for progressives to abandon the all-or-nothing approach

The United States and Washington state are going through an extremely difficult period. In addition to the climate crisis, economic instability is intensifying, as are pressure on immigrants and communities of color and restrictions on the rights of LGBTQ+ people. Rather than seeking solutions together, the federal government, in the author’s view, is pursuing policies that only deepen the current problems.

The urgency of the moment demands new approaches. Yet after the 2024 elections—and long before them—progressives have continued to argue about past campaigns, the limits of acceptable radicalism and the future of the Democratic Party. The author believes it is more important not to choose a single “correct” path, but to combine different strategies while taking local conditions, available resources and participants’ actual influence into account.

This is particularly important for cities such as Seattle and for Washington state as a whole. Left-leaning views dominate here, but disagreements remain within the progressive camp over the pace of reform, taxes, public safety and the role of business. Activists often shape the political agenda, while elected officials must seek the compromises needed to pass budgets and implement laws effectively. Decisions are also influenced by party primaries, unions, public hearings and local initiatives.

In such a political environment, it is easy to focus on internal conflicts and lose sight of the scale of the threats facing the nation. That is why the author turns to From Presence to Power, a book by civic leader and strategist Rashad Robinson.

Robinson argues that lasting change requires more than visibility—taking part in marches or running social media campaigns. Movements must gain real influence and create incentives for companies and politicians to support their demands. The strategy, he says, is a realistic and achievable plan that brings together different sources of power at the right time to accomplish a specific goal.

In the Seattle area, potential allies for progressives include the mayor’s office and City Council, King County government, the state administration, Sound Transit and local school districts. SEIU and AFSCME carry significant influence, as do unions representing education, transportation and construction workers. Organizations advocating for homeless people, housing coalitions, environmental groups and ethnic-minority organizations are also important.

Major regional companies, including Microsoft, Amazon, Starbucks and other technology firms, can support specific initiatives—such as housing construction, climate projects or transportation development. At the same time, their interests do not always align with activists’ demands, so cooperation with business requires clear conditions and an understanding of the possible compromises.

For Robinson, victory means neither winning an argument nor achieving moral superiority, but producing real changes that improve people’s lives. He cites New York, where Mayor Zohran Mamdani, despite controversy surrounding his socialist views, has gained support through practical results, including efforts to address everyday urban problems. The mayor’s successes and the activity of his supporters, in turn, are forcing the more moderate governor to make concessions to progressives.

In Washington, the passage of progressive initiatives also often depends on coalitions with moderate politicians and business leaders. The state remains liberal on social issues, but decisions are constrained by the budget, tax rules and legal disputes, as well as the need to win support from different counties. In the suburbs and outside Seattle, voters may support social programs while also worrying about high taxes or sweeping changes to public safety policies.

Business interests have money, expertise and jobs at their disposal, so their participation can help secure funding and ensure that reforms are implemented in practice. However, negotiations with them sometimes lead progressives to soften their initial demands. That is why coalition politics requires not abandoning one’s goals, but setting priorities and defining achievable stages for putting them into practice.

Housing policy and homelessness in Seattle are among the clearest examples. Public statements about social justice cannot replace construction permits, funding for affordable housing, coordination among social services, or the creation of temporary and permanent housing. In transportation, results depend on stable funding, expanded routes and safety—not merely on declarations of support for public transit.

The same applies to climate adaptation, which requires investment in flood protection, modernization of energy infrastructure and preparation for heat waves and wildfires. These challenges highlight the difference between symbolic activism and practical policymaking. Sustainable results require administrative work, compromise and measurable goals.

Robinson considers “maximalism” one of the main obstacles—the belief that any position falling short of the most idealistic one constitutes a betrayal of values or demonstrates cowardice and corruption. This outlook also implies refusing to work with people who do not yet share all of the movement’s views. In the author’s opinion, such an approach makes movements smaller and weaker.

The history of the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights and marriage equality demonstrates the opposite: long efforts to win over allies gradually changed social values and made marriage equality an accepted mainstream standard. Robinson also warns against “magical thinking,” in which activists assume their analysis is entirely correct, fail to study how systems of power operate and do not test their own assumptions.

The decisions made today will affect the lives of future generations. Robinson therefore urges people to understand their own power, find allies and networks, and determine what contribution each person can make. Escaping the current crisis will require not excluding those who disagree, but bringing more people together around concrete goals, practical change and results that can be measured.

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Based on: Why progressives must ditch the maximalist, all-or-nothing approach

New Federal Rules Could Weaken Head Start in Washington

The federal Head Start program, which provides free preschool education and comprehensive support to low-income families, is once again facing potentially sweeping changes. If the proposed rules take effect, more than 14,000 children and their families in Washington could lose access to vital services. The proposal is currently open for public comment, and final approval is expected in October.

The package of changes would restrict work with multilingual children and parents, reduce administrative funding, and eliminate several staffing requirements. Experts warn that dozens of new provisions could substantially alter how the program operates and turn it into a mere shell of the current system.

Representatives of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services say eliminating some standards would reduce bureaucracy. Educators, however, fear the opposite effect. Possible consequences include cuts to support services, including dental care; larger class sizes; and fewer opportunities for individualized support.

Jodi Smith of Kent Youth and Family Services teaches a class of 19 students, most of whom do not speak English, while several require special education support. She said it is especially concerning that the number of children with disabilities, including autism, is growing even as additional staff could disappear. “We are not babysitters; we are teachers,” Smith said, emphasizing that children need more than supervision—they need comprehensive developmental support.

Head Start centers are required to provide children with disabilities equal access to services and reasonable accommodations under federal laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act and special education regulations. Staff must identify children’s potential needs, collaborate with parents and specialists, implement individualized support plans, and adapt activities, facilities and communication methods. Staffing cuts could therefore make these requirements more difficult to fulfill.

Head Start was created 60 years ago as part of President Lyndon Johnson’s War on Poverty. It serves hundreds of thousands of children nationwide, including children from families below the federal poverty line, children with disabilities, children in foster care and children experiencing homelessness. The program is federally funded but operated by local nonprofits, schools and government agencies.

This partnership model allows programs to reflect the needs of individual communities. The federal government sets standards and provides funding, while local organizations deliver services directly, using existing facilities, educators and connections with health and social service providers.

Washington has 81 Head Start programs. Its local counterpart, the free Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program, or ECEAP, has also faced significant cuts because of the state’s budget shortfall. Head Start is funded through federal grants, while ECEAP depends on Washington’s budget. The two programs often operate through the same local organizations and provide children with comprehensive support, including education, health services and assistance for families.

As a result, ECEAP cuts could reduce the number of available slots and staff and worsen the effects of potential federal cuts or funding disruptions affecting Head Start. Overall, free and subsidized preschool slots in the state depend on several funding sources, including federal grants, ECEAP funds and other government programs. Congressional decisions and the state budget deficit could lead to fewer slots, longer waiting lists or higher costs for families.

Research shows that every dollar invested in high-quality early education can generate four to 10 dollars in societal benefits through improved educational and career outcomes for children, a broader tax base and lower spending on remedial education.

For parents, the program also has immediate practical importance. Eder Campos of Woodinville, who moved from El Salvador, said Head Start helped his 5-year-old daughter with ADHD, provided a backpack and school supplies, helped him understand her vaccination schedule, and gave him and his wife an opportunity to practice English with other Spanish-speaking parents. Without the program, the family likely could not have afforded private preschool.

The proposed rules could deprive parents like Campos of translated materials and make it more difficult for families who do not speak English to access services. Center directors are already wording grant applications more cautiously, avoiding terms associated with diversity, equity and inclusion because they fear rejection. In one Washington case, an application was rejected because it included funding for staff training on compliance with disability rights laws.

Parents and advocates warn that cuts to Head Start would affect not only current families but also future generations, including the doctors, lawyers, economists and other professionals they may become.

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Based on: How Head Start changes could impact WA families, providers

Uniqlo to open a new store in Issaquah

Japanese clothing retailer Uniqlo will open a store at 10 a.m. Friday at Issaquah Commons. It will be the brand’s sixth store in the Seattle area; the others are located in downtown Seattle, Bellevue, Tukwila, Lynnwood and Tacoma. To celebrate the opening, the first 200 customers who make a purchase Friday will receive a certificate for a free breakfast treat.

The first 200 visitors on each of the three days — Friday through Sunday — will also have the chance to receive a Uniqlo shopping bag filled with exclusive gifts. Customers who spend more than $99 over the weekend will receive a bag featuring an Issaquah design created by Seattle artist Brandon Vosika. The store will also sell other Issaquah-themed items, while performances by Japanese taiko drummers will round out the opening festivities.

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Based on: Uniqlo to open in Issaquah this week

Tragedies and Challenges in Seattle: Crash, Party Shooting, and Meteor Shower

Seattle is facing several notable events: an e-scooter rider was killed in a crash involving a 16-year-old driver, three people were shot at a rented party, and warm weather is expected alongside the Perseid meteor shower.

Seattle Tragedy: E-Scooter Rider Killed by Minivan Driven by Teenager

The nighttime quiet of north Seattle was shattered early this week by a tragic incident that once again raises difficult questions about road safety and the responsibility of underage drivers. Around 12:30 a.m. Tuesday, 911 dispatchers received an alarming call from a bus driver who discovered a man’s body in the intersection of 24th Avenue Northwest and Northwest 85th Street, near the popular Golden Gardens Park. City firefighters and medics who arrived at the scene fought to save the victim, but despite their efforts, the 37-year-old man died before he could be taken to a hospital.

Seattle police quickly arrived and reconstructed the sequence of events. Investigators determined that the victim was riding an electric scooter when he was struck by a minivan traveling west on Northwest 85th Street. At first glance, the circumstances appeared straightforward: a collision on a nighttime road where visibility may have been limited and speed may have been a factor. However, the detail that drew public attention was the identity of the minivan’s driver. He was a 16-year-old teenager who, police emphasized in a statement, did not flee the scene but returned and actively cooperated with investigators. That fact certainly deserves recognition, since in such stressful situations not every adult would behave so responsibly—let alone someone so young.

Nevertheless, the circumstances surrounding the death require a thorough investigation. Officers from the specialized traffic collision investigation unit have begun determining what exactly led to the fatal crash. A drug-recognition expert was also brought in to evaluate the teenager. The examination found no signs that the underage driver had consumed alcohol or illegal substances. This temporarily rules out one of the most alarming possibilities, but leaves many others, ranging from simple inattention and fatigue to difficult weather conditions and technical factors involving either the e-scooter or the vehicle.

This tragedy, reported by KIRO 7 News Seattle, once again exposes a troubling trend affecting many American cities, where the popularity of personal transportation devices such as e-scooters and bicycles is growing rapidly. Each year, city streets become more dangerous for these road users. The problem is made even more serious by the fact that e-scooter riders often neglect basic safety measures such as wearing helmets, while nighttime conditions can make them nearly invisible to motorists, especially at poorly lit intersections.

The legal aspects of the case also raise questions. In Washington state, people can obtain a driver’s license at age 16, but that does not necessarily mean a teenager has enough experience to operate a vehicle safely in difficult nighttime conditions. The incident may prompt lawmakers to reconsider restrictions on young drivers, such as banning them from driving at night without adult supervision. However, even the strictest laws cannot bring the 37-year-old man back to life. The investigation now being conducted by Seattle police must answer the central questions: What happened at that intersection during those fatal moments, and who, if anyone, was responsible for the tragedy? For now, the only hope is that this painful event will remind all road users of the fragility of human life and the enormous responsibility carried by everyone who gets behind the wheel—whether of a car or a small electric scooter.

Warm Tuesday and Meteor Shower: Seattle Weather This Week

Seattle residents can enjoy calm and warm weather Tuesday, when temperatures will again approach 80 degrees Fahrenheit, or about 27°C. As in previous days, the morning will begin cloudy before the clouds clear around midday, giving way to bright sunshine. This is a classic weather pattern for mid-August in the Puget Sound region. It is worth noting that the peak of summer heat has already passed: the average high temperature this week is 78 degrees, one degree below the peak readings seen in late July and early August.

Tuesday will offer nearly ideal conditions, with temperatures matching the climate normal for this time of year. By Wednesday, however, forecasters expect the weather pattern to change. A weak atmospheric disturbance moving south from British Columbia will increase the chance of isolated thunderstorms in mountainous areas. These storms could bring lightning and gusty winds, significantly increasing the risk of new wildfires Wednesday afternoon and evening.

Despite that, Wednesday promises to be especially exciting for astronomy enthusiasts. The night will bring the spectacular Perseid meteor shower, with an expected 50 to 100 meteors visible per hour. Thanks to the new moon and mostly clear skies, viewing conditions should be excellent. Forecasters are promising a beautiful evening for anyone who wants to look up at the sky and make a wish on a shooting star.

After the brief deterioration in weather Wednesday, with possible rain and thunderstorms mainly affecting mountain areas, a short warm-up is expected by Friday. The next slight chance of precipitation will arrive Monday of next week. Overall, Seattle residents should not expect any major surprises this week. The weather will reflect the mild climate of the Pacific Northwest, where summer is gradually giving way to fall.

Some technical details of the forecast are worth explaining. The phrase “weak disturbance from British Columbia” refers to a small area of low pressure moving from north to south. Such systems usually bring only minor weather changes, but when combined with mountainous terrain, they can trigger localized thunderstorms. The Perseid meteor shower is an annual astronomical event that occurs when Earth passes through a trail of dust particles left by the comet Swift-Tuttle. The particles burn up in the atmosphere, creating the effect of “shooting stars.” A new moon is important for observers because the absence of moonlight makes the sky darker, allowing even faint meteors to be seen.

According to FOX 13 Seattle, the region is also continuing to monitor wildfires, which remain a serious concern in Washington state at this time of year. The threat of new fires caused by lightning on Wednesday is an additional reason for both residents and emergency services to remain vigilant. The forecast for next week remains uncertain, but forecasters do not expect a return to extreme heat—good news for those who prefer mild weather and comfortable summer evenings.

Triple Shooting at Seattle Party: Short-Term Rental Again at Center of Controversy

Early Monday morning, the quiet Lower Capitol Hill neighborhood of Seattle erupted with the sound of gunfire, and police are now investigating the shocking aftermath. A loud party was reportedly taking place at a home rented through a short-term rental service when the shooting occurred. Three people—two men and one woman—were injured, but fortunately their injuries were not life-threatening. The strangest aspect of the incident, however, was that when officers arrived, they found neither the victims nor obvious signs of chaos. The scene itself was apparently still “alive”: the party seemed to have continued even after the shots were fired.

According to Seattle police, dispatchers received a report of gunfire at approximately 12:43 a.m. from an address on 10th Avenue East near East Lynn Street. Officers arriving minutes later found an active gathering, with people, music, and a party atmosphere, but no injured individuals. Detective Shane Weatherford later clarified that all three victims made their own way, either independently or with help from acquaintances, to nearby hospitals. They traveled in private vehicles rather than ambulances. According to police, this only raises more questions about what happened, since people in such circumstances typically wait for paramedics or seek immediate assistance. Here, events unfolded differently.

The main question now troubling investigators is not only what prompted the shooting, but also who pulled the trigger. Detectives from the Gun Violence Reduction Unit have interviewed witnesses and examined the scene, but have not yet identified any suspects or disclosed a motive. Apparently, the home was rented through an Airbnb-type service specifically for the party, which itself may violate many short-term rental platform rules prohibiting large gatherings without authorization. The neighborhood where the incident occurred is generally considered quiet and family-oriented, making the shooting especially alarming for residents who increasingly complain that such “party houses” are turning their streets into nightclubs.

Police are asking anyone who attended the party or has any information about the shooting to call the violent-crimes tip line at 206-233-5000. The case once again highlights an age-old problem: what happens when a rental property becomes an uncontrolled public space. Property owners often have no idea that their homes are being rented for loud parties, while neighbors are forced to put up with constant noise and danger. Seattle authorities have tightened short-term rental regulations in recent years, but violations continue, as this incident demonstrates. Such events may be only the tip of the iceberg, with far more at stake than fines—including people’s health and, sometimes, their lives.

For more details about the incident and the local community’s reaction, article author James Lynch has provided a full account in his MyNorthwest report, based on official police information. For now, the main point is that three people narrowly escaped death, but the case should prompt landlords, platforms, and residents themselves to consider how private space is being used and what the consequences of irresponsible behavior can be.

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Seattle in the Spotlight: From Scandal-Plagued Rookie to Championship Ambitions

Seattle is becoming the epicenter of the sports world: the Seahawks are considering the risky signing of Terrion Arnold, who has been accused of serious crimes; Sam Darnold is enjoying stability after winning a championship; and the Mariners are going through a difficult transitional period.

Seattle Takes a Look at a Controversial Rookie: What’s Behind the Seahawks’ Interest in Terrion Arnold

The situation surrounding former Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold continues to take unexpected turns. Almost immediately after the Michigan club parted ways with the player, who found himself at the center of a high-profile criminal investigation, the Seattle Seahawks made it clear that they were not prepared to completely cross the young defender off their list. Head coach Mike Macdonald confirmed that the team had held a full meeting and workout with Arnold, describing the visit as “excellent,” while acknowledging that there are many nuances surrounding the player that require careful examination.

Arnold’s story is a classic example of how athletic talent can collide with serious personal circumstances. The 2024 first-round pick, who was considered one of the most promising cornerbacks in his draft class, is now accused of organizing the kidnapping and beating of three people. According to investigators, he suspected them of stealing $100,000 in cash, along with expensive watches and bags. The player’s representatives deny all the allegations, but he currently faces four counts of kidnapping and four counts of armed robbery. The maximum sentence for those charges could be life in prison, although it is still too early to discuss any trial—the hearing date has not been set.

It is worth noting that the Seahawks’ interest in Arnold predates all of these events. Seattle showed significant interest in him before the 2024 draft, while the team’s current defensive backs coach, Karl Scott, previously recruited Arnold to the University of Alabama, although he never had the opportunity to coach him directly on the field. That connection, however indirect, is clearly playing a role—the club routinely seeks advice from people who know a prospective player personally. The Seahawks’ roster also includes some of Arnold’s former college teammates, including quarterback Jalen Milroe. All of this creates a context in which the club is trying to weigh the risks against the potential benefits.

Commenting on the situation, Macdonald emphasized that the team was conducting a “comprehensive investigation” and that Arnold has people in his circle whose opinions are trusted in Seattle. He also noted that the Seahawks see themselves as a place where a person can fulfill his potential if given the opportunity. However, the fact that Arnold’s legal problems could make his participation in the season virtually impossible cannot be ignored. A Hillsborough County judge in Florida ruled that Arnold must remain at his home in Tallahassee, except when traveling for games, practices or team activities, or when appearing in court. Now that Detroit has released him, however, those conditions have become extremely vague, and it is unclear whether he would even be allowed to leave his home to play for a new team.

The football side of the issue is also complicated. Arnold played in only eight games last season because of a shoulder injury that ultimately required surgery. Over two years in the league, he has recorded just one interception and 18 passes defended. Those are not the kind of numbers that typically justify such significant reputational risks. Nevertheless, Seattle has a personnel need: after Riq Woolen left in free agency, Noah Igbinoghene and Nehemiah Pritchett are competing for the third cornerback spot, while third-round rookie Julian Neal is still recovering from an injury. Macdonald, however, expressed confidence in his players and stressed that the interest in Arnold was not a panic move, but part of the broader process of improving the roster.

According to reports, Arnold is also planning visits with the New Orleans Saints and has already visited the Houston Texans. This suggests that despite all the legal complications, there is still demand for a player of his caliber. Still, the Seahawks are unlikely to make a quick decision. As Macdonald put it, “anything could be on the table” in this situation, and the club will proceed cautiously, weighing all the pros and cons. Clearly, signing such a player would be not only a football decision but also a major public-relations choice—one that would require Seattle’s leadership to show courage and accept significant responsibility. For now, it appears that the club is exploring whether to give a talented but troubled defender a second chance without abandoning its obligations to the team and its fans.

Sam Darnold’s Journey: From Team-Hopping to Stability in Seattle and a Championship

Sam Darnold, once viewed as a promising No. 3 overall pick before becoming a journeyman around the league, has finally found a home in Seattle. Last season was a triumph for the 29-year-old quarterback: he led the Seahawks to their first championship in 12 years by winning the Super Bowl. Darnold himself, however, does not consider it the pinnacle of his career. In a recent interview with The Athletic, he emphasized that he is not accustomed to looking back and prefers to live in the present, learning from the past without dwelling on it. That philosophy, instilled by his father, who taught him that hard work always pays off, helps Darnold maintain his focus and motivation despite all the highs and lows.

Darnold’s story is a classic example of how a talented player can reboot his career. He began with the New York Jets, spending three difficult seasons there before being traded to the Carolina Panthers, where the situation became even more chaotic because of organizational turmoil and competition with Baker Mayfield. The turning point came during his season in San Francisco under Kyle Shanahan, where Darnold, serving as a backup, absorbed knowledge from one of the league’s best coaches. He successfully applied that experience in Minnesota in 2024, signing a modest contract and winning a competitive battle with rookie J.J. McCarthy. After setting career highs in passing yards and touchdowns, he led the Vikings to 14 wins, but the team stumbled in the playoffs. Even so, that performance convinced the Seahawks to offer him a $100.5 million contract, which now looks like one of the league’s best bargains.

Darnold’s success in Seattle stems not only from his talent but also from his synergy with head coach Mike Macdonald. Together, they have built a system that places great emphasis on preparation for decisive moments. Darnold admits that his confidence in clutch situations comes from countless repetitions and visualizations in practice. He knows which routes are preferable against particular defensive looks and can read defenses at an elite quarterback level. That allows him to make precise throws, such as his recent passes to Cooper Kupp and Jaxon Smith-Njigba in practice, which were the result of a deep understanding of his chemistry with the receivers.

Despite winning the championship, Darnold has no intention of resting on his laurels. He understands that there are still details in his game to refine, such as his footwork on certain routes. His own defense, led by Macdonald, also challenges him and refuses to let him relax in practice. Darnold embraces that competition, comparing it to the tests Brian Flores put him through in Minnesota. He draws inspiration from greats such as Drew Brees and Tom Brady, who expertly adjusted their plans according to the defense’s actions. For Darnold, each such challenge is not stressful but an exciting game in which he wants to be the best.

Darnold is now enjoying the stability he lacked for many years. Moving from city to city and living in rented apartments are things of the past. He is furnishing a home with his wife, Katie, exploring Seattle and building strong relationships with friends. That stability, he says, is incredibly important for his mental well-being and professional growth. When considering the future, however, Darnold remains philosophical: he does not look too far ahead, preferring to focus on the present and the tasks before him. He knows that new challenges await, including a possible contract extension, but he prefers not to make predictions. His goal is to get the most out of every moment of his career, and that journey appears far from over.

Seattle Mariners: A Blowout Loss, the Club’s 50th Anniversary and a Difficult Road Trip

The Seattle Mariners ended their 50th-anniversary home series in thoroughly disappointing fashion. In Sunday’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays, the team lost 4–1, completing a three-game sweep and failing to win a single game during its celebratory weekend. Although the result disappointed fans, it was hardly a genuine surprise given the team’s current form and the overall direction of the season. The Mariners now have just one day to catch their breath before embarking on an exhausting road trip involving three cities and games against extremely tough opponents, adding further tension to an already difficult situation.

In the broader context, recent Mariners news has featured names that are not directly connected to the current roster but could have a major impact on the franchise’s future and ambitions. These include young prospect Cole Young, as well as two league superstars—Shohei Ohtani and Chris Sale. These figures represent different aspects of baseball reality: from a promising farm system that is supposed to become the foundation for success to major trade and contract stories that are reshaping the balance of power across the league.

In an article published by lookoutlanding.com, the authors use fairly informal language and only briefly mention the loss, focusing instead on a collection of stories that may interest devoted fans. Cole Young, for example, is a classic “No. 1 prospect” in the Mariners’ system. He is a young player who has not yet made his major-league debut but is already viewed as a future face of the franchise. Scouts and analysts are monitoring his progress closely because players like Young are expected to eventually replace the team’s current leaders and take the club to the next level. His role in discussions about the Mariners’ future is tied to hopes that he will become a key part of building a competitive team capable of contending for a playoff berth.

As for Shohei Ohtani, the situation is considerably more high-profile. Ohtani is a unique player who combines the talent of an elite pitcher with the ability of an outstanding hitter—an extremely rare combination in modern baseball. His move to the Los Angeles Dodgers during the offseason was the winter’s biggest story and completely altered the landscape of the American League. For the Mariners, Ohtani’s presence in the news is a reminder of how difficult it is to compete with financially powerful clubs that can afford contracts worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Mentioning the Japanese superstar in the context of the Mariners often serves either as an example of a missed opportunity or as motivation to invest more aggressively in the development of their own academy and discover hidden talent rather than trying to outbid other teams for established stars.

Chris Sale, meanwhile, represents the other extreme: an experienced veteran who was considered one of the best pitchers of his generation throughout his career but has constantly struggled with injuries. His current standing in the league is of interest to both journalists and analysts, since any trade or signing involving him could dramatically alter the balance of power in the division. For the Mariners, Sale could be a potential target if the team decides to strengthen its rotation before the trade deadline, although his high price and age would make such a deal risky.

As for the lost series against the Rays, it is impossible to overlook the Mariners’ serious consistency problems this season. The team alternates between brilliant bursts of play and deep slumps, a pattern typical of young teams in the midst of a rebuild. Losing during an anniversary weekend, when former players and club legends gather in the stands, undoubtedly makes the result sting more. But making personnel decisions or panicking over a single series would be an unacceptable luxury, especially with a demanding road trip ahead that will provide a genuine test of the team’s resilience.

It is also worth explaining some terms that may be unfamiliar to casual readers but are an integral part of baseball culture. A “rotation,” for example, is the group of starting pitchers who take turns starting games and determine a team’s success over the long course of the season. The “trade deadline” is a specific date in the middle of the season after which clubs can no longer make player trades, making that period crucial for roster decisions. Finally, a “prospect” is a young player signed by a team and developing in its farm system who has not yet played in the major leagues. All of these concepts are important to understanding why a loss during an anniversary celebration is not a reason for catastrophe, but rather another stage in the long and difficult journey every franchise seeking stability and success must take.

Overall, the current state of the Seattle Mariners can be characterized as a transitional period. While some parts of the club—young players such as Cole Young, for example—offer reason for optimism about the future, others, including the team’s on-field performance, worry fans. The names Ohtani and Sale appearing in the news serve as reminders of the intense competition and the need to make measured personnel decisions. A difficult stretch on the road awaits, and it will show how well the team can come together and produce results despite its setbacks. Although today offers a brief respite, everything will begin again tomorrow, and fans can only hope that their team will turn the page and start a new chapter in its history.

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Seattle Fire and NFL Forecasts: Top Stories of the Day

The road to the top: a look at the day’s key sports and crime stories—from an arson attack on a garage to the potential breakthrough of an NFL star.

Arson Destroys Seattle Auto Community Garage, Causing More Than $250,000 in Damage

Seattle police are searching for a suspect accused of deliberately setting fire to Ant's Community Garage, a popular local facility. The incident occurred on July 28 and was captured by surveillance cameras, which recorded an unidentified man entering a restroom with a bottle in his hand before flames erupted. The footage shows the suspect fleeing the building in panic shortly after the fire began. Fortunately, thanks to the swift actions of an employee who evacuated everyone inside, there were no casualties. The property damage, however, was enormous—more than $250,000.

Garage owner and founder Alastair Finn, who personally built the facility, installed the workbenches and painted the walls, says he is completely baffled by what happened. Speaking to reporters, he wondered what could have angered the unknown suspect so deeply that he would take such an extreme step. “I never expected our business could upset someone so much that they would want to burn it to the ground. It keeps me up at night,” Finn said. The garage was more than just a workshop—it was a true hub for the local automotive community, where people met, socialized and saved money on repairs.

The fire’s aftermath was devastating: the blaze destroyed expensive equipment and left behind charred debris, while the entire structure was saturated with corrosive smoke that caused further damage. The garage is currently closed and surrounded by fencing as the owner assesses the destruction and makes plans for rebuilding. No arrests have been made, but Finn is confident the arsonist will be identified. He hopes someone will recognize the suspect from the released footage. At the same time, although the business is insured, it remains unclear how much of the loss will be covered by the insurance payout. The local community has already rallied around the garage, organizing a GoFundMe campaign to help pay for repairs. Finn thanked everyone for their support and firmly promised that the garage would reopen. For a fuller understanding of the situation, readers can view the original report prepared by FOX 13 Seattle journalists.

Incidents like this raise important questions about the safety of small community projects and their vulnerability to deliberate acts of vandalism. The garage was essentially a volunteer-run association of automotive enthusiasts, yet it suffered because of someone’s malice—or possibly mental instability. For Finn, this is not merely the loss of property but a blow to his life’s work, into which he invested not only money but also his heart and soul. The situation is further complicated by the fact that insurance companies are often reluctant to cover arson-related damage, especially when no perpetrator has been identified, potentially leaving the owner without a significant portion of the compensation. Nevertheless, the solidarity shown by residents who are already donating to the rebuilding effort demonstrates that the community has not been broken and is ready to overcome the hardship together. One can only hope that police will quickly find those responsible and that the garage will soon resume operations, becoming a symbol of resilience in the face of senseless destruction.

Sam Darnold: Is a Career Quantum Leap Coming?

When Sam Darnold was selected third overall in the 2018 draft, few could have predicted that his path to the top would be so difficult yet ultimately triumphant. Today, after two consecutive Pro Bowl-caliber seasons and a Super Bowl title with the Seattle Seahawks, Darnold has finally silenced the skeptics who recently dismissed him as a failed prospect. Yet experience shows that even after a major success, there is always room for one more “what if?” question. That is exactly the question no one dares to ask aloud—voiced by former NFL quarterback and current popular analyst Brock Huard on the Brock and Salk program on Seattle Sports.

Huard, who has been closely following the Seahawks’ training camp, is asking fans and analysts to consider the seemingly unthinkable: what if Darnold has not simply reached his ceiling but is only beginning his upward trajectory? Based on his observations, which he detailed in his Blue 88 segment, the 29-year-old quarterback’s current form is far better than it was a year ago—by a considerable margin. “I was there for a couple of days, I watched all the mandatory minicamp practices,” Huard said. “And you know who was better than last year? Sam Darnold. Who is infinitely better right now than he was exactly 12 months ago at training camp? Sam Darnold. What if he takes the next step in his career? Instead of just being a great story... what if he really is that good? Because that’s exactly how he’s playing right now. I understand it’s training camp, but I also understand that he’s going against one of the best defenses in the league.”

It is important to note that these comments are not merely the enthusiastic ramblings of a fan. Huard carries considerable weight in football circles as an NFL veteran, and his observations are supported by Darnold’s impressive statistics over the past two seasons. Darnold’s breakthrough began in Minnesota in 2024, when he led the Vikings to a 14–3 regular-season record, ranking fifth in the league in passing yards (4,319) and touchdowns (35), as well as sixth in yards per attempt (7.9). His move to Seattle in 2025 did not slow him down; it only reinforced his status as an elite player. The Seahawks again went 14–3 in the regular season, while Darnold posted the league’s eighth-best completion percentage (67.7%), ranked fifth in passing yards (4,048) and, most impressively, second in yards per attempt (8.5). The real magic, however, came in the playoffs. In the conference championship game against the Seahawks’ fierce rivals, the Los Angeles Rams, Darnold delivered a phenomenal performance—346 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions—to secure a 31–27 victory and a trip to the Super Bowl.

Now entering the ninth season of his career, Darnold is in the strongest position of his professional life. The only question is whether there is a limit to how much better he can become. Huard believes that if Darnold continues to improve at this pace, talk of him as the league’s “15th” or “10th” quarterback will disappear for good, replaced by debates about whether he belongs in the top five. “What if, in Year 9, he takes another step forward?” the analyst asked. “Then it won’t be a conversation about being 15th or 10th in the league anymore. We’ll be talking about a top-five quarterback.”

For those unfamiliar with the finer points of American football, it is worth explaining that training camp is the preseason stage during which teams sharpen their skills and determine their rosters. Although the results have no bearing on the standings, the intensity and level of competition are extremely high, making Huard’s assessment particularly valuable. Facing one of the NFL’s strongest defenses at every practice further suggests that Darnold’s progress is no accident but the result of sustained hard work. There is other news from Seahawks camp as well: running back Price has been sidelined by a minor injury and is expected to return soon, while cornerback Jobe is entering the new season with renewed ambitions. But the main focus is unquestionably on the man who has already brought Seattle a trophy and appears unwilling to stop there. This season, the Seahawks look not merely like contenders but potential dominators—and if Huard’s words prove prophetic, the league may be entering a new chapter of the Sam Darnold era, an era that may only just be beginning.

Byron Murphy: The Seahawks’ Training Camp Standout Chasing NFL Elite Status

The defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks have been working hard at training camp for several weeks as they prepare for the new season. According to well-known analyst and former NFL quarterback Brock Huard, one player has stood out more than anyone else. That player is third-year defensive tackle Byron Murphy. Huard, who now hosts a morning show on Seattle Sports, expressed his admiration for the young talent’s progress in his Blue 88 segment. He believes we are witnessing another evolution in Murphy’s game, with the player making a major leap over the past year—from just 32 tackles and 0.5 sacks during his rookie season in 2024 to an impressive 61 tackles and seven sacks last year. And Huard believes this is only the beginning.

Huard recalls what Murphy looked like in his first year in the league: a promising but raw player whose health and limited playing time held him back. At the time, he reminded Huard of the player he had watched at the University of Texas—capable of producing explosive stretches but lacking the stamina needed to dominate consistently. Even then, however, it was clear that selecting him in the first round of the draft had been justified. Last season was a genuine breakthrough: 62 tackles, seven tackles for loss and seven sacks—excellent numbers for a player whose primary responsibility is stopping the run. Yet, as Huard points out, Murphy seemed to have been overlooked. He was not selected to the Pro Bowl or an All-Pro team, and even before this season began, he was absent from lists of the best players at his position. According to the analyst, that lack of recognition has given Murphy additional motivation.

In Huard’s view, Murphy currently looks phenomenal. He is in excellent physical shape and clearly determined to move from the “good” category into the “elite” one. The former quarterback calls him a potential Defensive Player of the Year candidate and predicts that if Murphy records double-digit sacks, everyone will be talking about him. After such a season, Huard believes, Byron will make the Pro Bowl and be mentioned among the best interior defenders in the league, likely followed by a lucrative contract. The Seahawks have already shown a willingness to spend heavily on key players, and Murphy could be next in line. It is important to understand that for a defensive tackle—whose primary job is to disrupt blocks and shut down running lanes—seven sacks in a season is an outstanding total, comparable to the achievements of elite pass rushers. If he actually doubles that figure, it would represent not just an individual accomplishment but a fundamental change in the Seahawks’ entire defensive scheme. The coaching staff is surely already designing new packages around his ability to threaten opposing quarterbacks, which would also create opportunities for his fellow defensive linemen. It is encouraging that in an era when young players often favor bold words over results, Murphy appears to be taking the opposite approach—letting hard work and performance speak for him. Now all that remains is to wait for the official start of the season to see whether he can turn these ambitious predictions into on-field achievements. More about how camp is unfolding and which other players are impressing the coaches can be found in the original Seattle Sports report.

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The Seattle Times Turns 130 Under Fifth-Generation Family Stewardship

In 1896, Alden Blethen arrived in Seattle—then a remote town near the Canadian border and at the edge of the continent—with a firm determination to develop the newspaper he had recently acquired. In 1913, he expressed that dream in a telegram to his younger son, C.B. Blethen, who was then editor of The Seattle Times: He hoped that a century later, the newspaper would be even more influential and would remain under the control of his descendants.

Alden proved farsighted. Today, The Seattle Times has been owned by his family for 130 years. During that time, the small evening paper grew alongside Seattle and the Puget Sound region, whose population reached several million people. It is now the area’s largest regional newspaper and one of the leading sources of independent journalism on politics, business, technology and public life. The publication complements public radio and television stations with major investigations and daily coverage of events, including the activities of major technology companies. The newspaper is now run by C.B. Blethen’s great-grandchildren.

The anniversary year coincided with a transition to a new generation of leaders. The author’s father, Frank Blethen, stepped down as publisher late last year after 40 years in the position and 58 years at the newspaper. He retained his role as chairman of the board, while his cousins Will and John Blethen also remain involved in management.

With Frank’s departure, the era of the fourth generation came to an end, and day-to-day leadership passed to the fifth. There are 11 descendants of Alden Blethen in the author’s generation: three work at The Seattle Times, while others participate in its management and oversight. For the family, this is less about owning a business than accepting a responsibility—the newspaper is meant to be preserved and developed, not built for a future sale.

The publication inherited by the current generation is vastly different from the newspaper of 1985. At the time, the advertising market was enjoying its golden age, allowing newsrooms to be large and subscriptions to remain inexpensive. Later, the industry was hit by the dot-com crash, the migration of classified ads to Craigslist, the rise of social media and the Great Recession of 2008. Social platforms captured a significant share of audience attention and advertising revenue, while Craigslist nearly drove newspapers out of the classified-ad market.

To survive and ensure growth, the newspaper created a business model that did not depend on a single source of revenue. The central decision was to place readers and subscribers at the heart of its operations, making journalism not only its mission but also the foundation of its economics. In 2013, The Seattle Times introduced a paywall for online content. Subscriptions allowed the newspaper to receive money directly from readers, offset declining advertising revenue and preserve resources for the newsroom, although they also limited access to some articles for casual users. The move helped the newspaper become less dependent on technology and social-media platforms and gain greater control over its own future.

The subscription model, however, is also vulnerable. Companies developing artificial intelligence pose a particular threat: They use copyrighted publications to train language models without permission or compensation. The newspaper’s relationship with the technology sector makes the dispute especially complicated. It may work with technology companies as advertisers or sources of information while also covering their activities critically. As a result, it must defend its copyrights and seek payment for the use of its material while preserving editorial independence. Potential licensing agreements will depend on copyright law and the negotiating power of the parties involved.

The author also points to pressure on the press from the administration of Donald Trump and insufficient transparency in Washington state’s legislative process. Public-records and open-meetings laws generally give journalists and citizens the right to request government records, attend meetings of public bodies and examine how decisions are made. There are exceptions involving personal data, investigations and matters of national or public security. In practice, access is often complicated by delays and denials, forcing journalists to pursue information through appeals.

Despite these difficulties, the current publisher believes the work is particularly important at this moment. A free press, he says, is needed to expose democracy’s hidden sides, strengthen society and help people maintain a shared understanding of what is happening. That mission has accompanied The Seattle Times through five generations, and the sixth is already beginning to show interest: The author’s two oldest children are studying journalism and have completed summer internships at the newspaper. The memory of the publication’s founder, whose memorial moved with the newsroom through various Seattle buildings, reminds the family of its past and its responsibility for the future. The author hopes that the next Blethens will find meaningful work at the newspaper and serve it, its employees and the entire region that has given so much to their family.

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Based on: Seattle Times turns 130 under fifth generation of family stewardship

Delay in College Sports Bill Raises Tensions in NCAA

The Protect College Sports Act, which is intended to establish federal rules for college sports in the United States, did not receive a Senate vote before the start of the August recess. Consideration has now been postponed until after Labor Day, and Majority Leader John Thune has promised to hold a procedural vote between Sept. 15 and 23.

The bill, authored by Sens. Maria Cantwell and Ted Cruz, addresses a wide range of issues: athlete compensation, coach and player transfer rules, conference expansion, protections for Olympic sports, scholarships, medical care and the first federal guarantees of athletes’ rights to use their name, image and likeness (NIL).

Cantwell said the delayed vote does not mean the bill has been abandoned. According to her, the problems facing student-athletes and universities have not gone away, and the legislation is intended to provide stability for the industry while protecting women’s and Olympic sports.

The five-week pause, however, increases the risk of further complications. During that time, domestic or international events could alter the Senate’s agenda, while the bill could face additional criticism. The approaching midterm elections could also make it more difficult to find a compromise.

The NCAA still sets overall competition rules, eligibility requirements, academic standards and limits on athlete compensation. But leading conferences consider the system too slow and bureaucratic. Since athletes were allowed to earn money from the use of their names, images and popularity, rules governing transfers, compensation and revenue sharing have increasingly been challenged in court. As a result, the SEC and Big Ten are seeking a more independent and clearly defined governance model.

Even potential Senate approval would not guarantee passage in the House of Representatives. Opponents of the current version include, among others, the Congressional Black Caucus, the NAACP and the AFL-CIO labor federation. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, who represents Louisiana — home to LSU, an important SEC member — may also be skeptical.

Scalise’s position could prove especially difficult. He will have to balance the interests of LSU, the state’s university system, fans and donors. If the bill expands the authority of the SEC and Big Ten, that could increase the chances of his support. But potential threats to smaller universities and opposition from other states could, conversely, make it more difficult to advance the legislation.

If the bill fails, the SEC and Big Ten could begin changing the structure of college sports on their own. They are the NCAA’s two wealthiest and most commercially successful conferences, comprising leading universities with enormous audiences, major media contracts and powerful football programs. Their combined revenue and political influence allow them to negotiate athlete funding and rules even without the consent of the entire NCAA. In terms of resources, they are already comparable to individual professional sports organizations, although they formally remain associations of universities.

The first possible scenario is partial self-governance. The SEC and Big Ten could continue competing against other conferences while leaving the NCAA’s governance system and creating their own rules and oversight mechanisms. Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti stresses that the main goal for now is to secure passage of the bill, but if it fails, the conferences could work together to find another sustainable model.

A more radical option would be a complete breakaway: the SEC and Big Ten could organize separate competitions primarily among their own teams, with conference champions meeting in a season-ending final. They are not ready to take such a step yet because it would provoke opposition from television companies, politicians and other conferences. However, the bill’s failure could accelerate the creation of a superleague featuring 24–30 of the strongest universities, effectively turning college football into the equivalent of a mini-NFL.

Such a split would affect more than just elite teams. The SEC and Big Ten generate a significant share of viewer interest and television revenue, so media companies could redirect funding toward the most popular universities. Smaller schools risk losing revenue, prestige and access to major competitions. Olympic sports would also be threatened, as many are funded through football and basketball revenue and are less commercially attractive on their own.

That is why the fate of the bill matters not only to athletes and universities but also to the future of the entire U.S. college sports system.

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Based on: Protect College Sports Act: What Senate delay means for Big Ten, SEC

Malden Faces Fire Threat Again, but the Town Is Protected

Six years after a fire destroyed about 80% of Malden in Whitman County, a new wildfire once again approached the town. This time, however, firefighters and residents managed to prevent a repeat of the disaster. According to local resident Tammy VanDyke, people were better prepared, and the necessary services arrived in time.

The Wells Road Fire began Saturday and spread quickly because of strong winds. By Sunday evening, the fire had burned about 2,000 acres, while the nearby Palouse River Fire had reached roughly 600 acres. Both fires remained uncontrolled, destroying farmland, equipment and outbuildings.

The Wells Road Fire destroyed at least one home and several outbuildings—four structures in total. The Palouse River Fire destroyed two more buildings east of Colfax. The following day, firefighters continued dousing smoldering areas and extinguishing isolated hot spots along Wells Road.

Authorities lowered the evacuation alert levels for Malden and Rosalia after advising residents the previous day to leave their homes. Malden was placed at Level 2—“be prepared to evacuate”—while Rosalia was placed at Level 1—“be ready.” At Level 1, residents should monitor updates and prepare; at Level 2, they should gather essential belongings and be ready to leave immediately. Level 3 means a mandatory evacuation and requires people to leave the danger zone without delay. County officials publish the specific zone boundaries and further instructions.

After the 2020 tragedy, Malden installed an alert system that informs residents of the level of danger. VanDyke said it worked very effectively.

Firefighters warn that Eastern Washington’s dry climate and terrain create conditions for renewed fires. Heat dries out grass, brush and deadwood, while wind carries flames and embers over considerable distances. Hidden hot spots can remain in soil, roots, stumps and smoldering wood, while uneven terrain, ravines and slopes can shield them from detection. That is why extended patrols and repeated dousing of hazardous areas are necessary even after the main fire front has been contained.

Some residents stayed in town despite the Level 3 evacuation order. Adam Mabi helped spray water on homes, hoping the John Wayne Trail would serve as a natural firebreak. The recreational trail follows a former railroad line through rural areas of Eastern Washington. Its cleared, relatively wide corridor, with less vegetation, may slow the fire’s spread and help firefighters contain the flames, although strong winds can carry fire across it.

Stephen Beach, who lost part of his home in 2020, said the new fire brought back painful memories. Although VanDyke’s home and that of her husband, former mayor Dan Harwood, survived, the fire destroyed a significant portion of their property. They noted that Malden is still recovering from the previous disaster and that many former residents never returned. Amid the numerous fires in Washington and other states, VanDyke feels especially deeply for people who now face the same long and difficult recovery process.

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Based on: Destroyed by fire in 2020, Malden avoids fiery repeat this summer

Gates Foundation to Give $540 Million to UW Global Health Research

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will give the University of Washington $540.2 million — the largest one-time donation in the university’s history. The money is intended for the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), which studies the health of populations around the world and helps governments make health care decisions.

The University of Washington is the region’s largest research university and one of the centers of Seattle’s medical and scientific ecosystem. Its UW Medicine system includes the medical school, clinics and hospitals, including UW Medical Center, and is involved in patient care, professional training and biomedical research. The university also works with hospitals, biotechnology companies, government agencies and nonprofit organizations across the state.

The grant will run for 10 years and is intended to provide the institute with financial stability while allowing it to expand its work. IHME Director Christopher Murray called the amount “staggering” and said it would allow the organization not merely to continue operating but to thrive.

The Gates Foundation helped establish the institute in 2007, so the new grant is viewed as the next stage of a long-term partnership. After an unsuccessful attempt to place IHME at Harvard University, UW proved to be a suitable home because of its strong infrastructure in public health, epidemiology, statistics and computer-based data analysis. The university had the necessary experts and academic programs, while Seattle offered an established network of medical and technology organizations and international partnerships.

UW’s proximity to the Gates Foundation and other scientific and medical institutions in the region facilitates in-person contact, staff exchanges and the launch of joint projects. At the same time, the partnership depends not only on geography but also on scientific independence, funding conditions and shared goals. The foundation remains a major source of support for global health projects, while IHME analyzes data on disease, mortality and the effectiveness of health programs, producing estimates for governments, international organizations and philanthropic foundations.

Most of the money will go toward expanding the Global Burden of Diseases project — the world’s largest study of diseases, injuries and risk factors. The number of locations where data are collected is expected to increase more than fivefold, from 925 to nearly 5,000.

More detailed local-level information will make it possible to identify differences that do not appear in national statistics. Researchers will be able to determine more precisely where maternal or child mortality is rising, which diseases are overwhelming health systems and in which regions preventive measures are producing insufficient results. About 20,000 experts from 150 countries participate in the project, and its estimates have already been cited in nearly 8,000 government and analytical documents.

The grant will also support health forecasting and analysis of countries’ health care spending. Such databases help finance ministries assess whether previous investments have produced results and understand the potential consequences of future health care investments.

IHME gained particular prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic. The institute regularly published global estimates of infections, hospitalizations and deaths, and later analyzed the effects of vaccination and mask use, including projections of how those measures could slow the spread of the virus and reduce deaths.

The institute was created with substantial support from the Gates Foundation after an effort to establish it at Harvard University fell through. The foundation’s initial contribution was $105 million, while the University of Washington added $20 million. Today, the foundation still accounts for about 60% of IHME’s budget; the remaining funds come from U.S. federal grants, international projects and other philanthropic sources.

The instability of federal funding is particularly significant for UW because a large portion of its research budget comes from grants awarded by the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation and other agencies. These funds pay for laboratory operations, researcher salaries, graduate education and clinical studies. Cuts could also affect other major scientific organizations in the state, including Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, leading to project closures and job losses while slowing the development of new treatments and technologies.

University of Washington representatives called the new donation especially timely amid cuts to government support for science. In recent years, the university’s medical divisions have also received other major gifts, including $50 million to cover tuition for laboratory medicine students and $25 million in scholarships for future doctors willing to work in rural areas. UW leaders believe that support for global and public health is more important today than ever.

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Based on: Gates Foundation to give historic $540 million to UW health institute

MacKenzie Scott Returns to the Literary Spotlight

MacKenzie Scott, one of the best-known yet most private billionaire philanthropists, has announced the release of a new novel. It is her first book since 2013 and marks a notable return to the public sphere after several years of extremely limited contact with the press.

The novel is titled Last Days in Two Nations (A History in Eighteen Minds). Based on the four published pages of the manuscript, the work runs approximately 80,000 words and 317 pages. Scott has revealed the title, contents, character list and epigraphs, but has disclosed almost nothing about the plot.

The author plans to publish the book independently through a newly launched Substack newsletter with the same title. The platform allows writers to post texts directly and send them to subscribers, either free of charge or through a paid subscription. This format gives Scott control over the content, publication schedule and interaction with readers, while also allowing her to avoid the lengthy selection and approval process of a traditional publisher. Publication on Substack does not, however, rule out the involvement of editors, proofreaders and other professionals.

On Instagram, Scott urged her followers to read the newsletter and subscribe. She also announced that the novel would be released in installments throughout August. The writer’s representative has not yet provided additional details.

Scott studied literature at Princeton University under writer Toni Morrison. Her debut novel, The Testing of Luther Albright, published in 2005, received critical acclaim, and her second book, Traps, came out in 2013. At the time, Scott was married to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, whose company is based in Seattle.

After moving to the region and marrying Bezos, Scott became a prominent figure in Seattle and Washington state’s literary and cultural life, although she is not considered the official leader of the local literary scene. Her influence was expressed primarily through her own writing, philanthropy and interest in the region’s cultural institutions.

After her divorce in 2019, Scott became particularly well known for her large-scale philanthropy. She retains a fortune of more than $38 billion and remains a major Amazon shareholder. Since 2020, Scott has donated billions of dollars annually to nonprofit organizations; last year alone, her donations totaled approximately $7 billion.

At the same time, the philanthropist rarely gives interviews and has repeatedly criticized heightened media attention, explaining that she prefers to respect journalists’ independence and choose for herself when and how to speak publicly.

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Based on: MacKenzie Scott steps back into spotlight with new book

Heat and Smoke Return: Forecast, Mariners Rout and a Legendary Grand Slam

A roundup of Seattle news: meteorologists warn of another wave of heat and smoke, the Mariners suffer a lopsided loss to Tampa Bay, and we look back at Phil Bradley’s historic home run that stunned fans 40 years ago.

Smoke and Heat Return: Seattle and Eastern Washington Forecast for the Second Week of August

After several unsuccessful attempts, cool marine air has finally pushed smoke out of Western Washington and slightly improved air quality in the state’s central areas. Residents in the western part of the state can breathe easier—for now, at least, through midweek. However, meteorologist Scott Sistek, author of the Emerald City Weather blog, warns that the long-range forecast is troubling again: heat is expected to return by the weekend, along with possible wildfire smoke.

Over the next few days, western parts of the state, including Seattle, will enjoy classic summer weather. Westerly winds will bring clean ocean air, with possible morning cloud cover that will give way to sunshine during the day. Temperatures are expected to reach 77–81 degrees Fahrenheit, while air quality should remain acceptable. Outdoor plans should be fine, although residents should remember that fires are still burning in the Cascades.

Eastern Washington remains under heightened fire danger at least through Saturday evening, while the warning in the Chelan and Wenatchee areas is in effect until Sunday morning. The cause is gusty winds of up to 25–30 mph and humidity below 20 percent, creating ideal conditions for fire to spread. Winds will ease overnight and conditions should stabilize somewhat, but with parched soil and high temperatures, new fires could break out at any time. Smoke will continue moving from west to east, and air quality will remain poor in areas downwind of active fires. Conditions in Wenatchee and Yakima, however, should be better thanks to improved ventilation.

Wednesday and Thursday will bring a new threat: possible thunderstorms. A weak system moving through British Columbia and Alberta could affect northern parts of central and eastern Washington. It will not bring rain, but it could trigger lightning in the northern Cascades and the Okanogan Range. Any lightning is highly undesirable right now, although forecasts call for storms to be weak and localized. The episode will be insignificant for Western Washington, perhaps bringing only a slight increase in the marine breeze and a temperature drop of a few degrees.

The main concern is the forecast for next Friday and Saturday. The European ensemble model, which includes 50 forecast scenarios, shows Seattle reaching 84–86 degrees in 30 of them, while temperatures exceed 90 degrees in eight cases. The average forecast is around 86 degrees. Winds could shift to the northeast, potentially bringing smoke from fires in British Columbia, although it may remain confined to the upper atmosphere. If the hottest scenarios materialize, easterly winds could return, as they did last week, putting Seattle under smoke once again. The only consolation is that such heat, if it arrives, will not last long. But once it subsides, stronger westerly winds and critical fire danger in the eastern part of the state are likely.

Sistek reluctantly acknowledges that this cycle—heat, smoke, temporary improvement, then more heat—may become a reality for the rest of the summer. The rainy season is still two months away, while a strengthening El Niño is contributing to dry conditions across the Pacific Northwest. As long as the region experiences any wind that is not from the west, it will remain vulnerable to smoke. The meteorologist jokingly asks readers to share their magic spells for a rainy September, but for now, people have to rely on forecasts and hope for the best.

Rays Light Up Seattle in Sweep of Mariners

Sunday’s game at Seattle’s T-Mobile Park concluded a series that left local fans with a bitter aftertaste. The Tampa Bay Rays, the American League’s winningest team, demonstrated their strength by defeating the Seattle Mariners 4–1 and completing a three-game sweep. The result did more than add another loss to the home team’s record. It exposed deep problems with the Mariners’ offense and starting rotation—problems becoming critical as the regular season enters its final stretch.

The game’s opening did not suggest such a disappointing outcome for the Mariners. The first inning was nearly perfect for Seattle: Taylor Ward hit a triple, and Cole Young, a young infielder making an increasingly forceful case for a regular starting role, drove him in with a single. Dominic Canzone also recorded a hit, and Seattle took a 1–0 lead. It appeared the team had finally found the key to the opposing pitching. But the surge was brief. Tampa pitcher Ian Seymour, not someone many experts would have picked before the game, quickly settled down after his difficult start. After allowing three hits in the first inning, he delivered a genuine master class, allowing the Mariners only two hits over the remaining five innings of his outing. Seymour finished with an impressive seven strikeouts and just two walks, earning his ninth win of the season. His confidence spread throughout the team, and the Rays gradually took control.

Yandy Díaz tied the game in the fourth inning with a single that scored Cedric Mullins. In the fifth, Mullins became the hero, hitting an RBI single off Emerson Hancock to put Tampa ahead. Hancock, who worked 4⅔ innings and allowed nine hits, looked unconvincing, and his removal was only a matter of time. The decisive blow came in the sixth inning, when Seattle reliever José Ferrer failed to withstand the pressure. With two runners on base, Liam Hicks crushed a double down the left-field line, driving in two decisive runs and establishing the final score at 4–1. Notably, the Rays finished with 14 hits, while the Mariners were unable to build on their early success and displayed near-total impotence against Tampa’s well-organized pitching.

For Seattle, the loss was its fourth straight and fifth in its last six games, clearly pointing to a crisis at the most important stage of the season. Fans can only hope that the upcoming road trip to New York, where the Mariners will face the Yankees, will help the team reset. Bryan Woo, scheduled to take the mound Tuesday, has a mediocre 4.31 ERA, and his matchup with New York’s Ryan Weathers looks extremely difficult. Tampa Bay, meanwhile, continues its confident march forward, and its next game against the Athletics appears to be an excellent opportunity to extend its winning streak.

In the broader context, the Rays’ success is no accident. Their pitcher-development system, which enables players such as Seymour to reach a high level, remains a model for the entire league. For the Mariners, the current series is a warning sign. Despite having talented young players, the team is clearly suffering from offensive inconsistency and relies too often on rare bursts of production. A lack of rotation depth is also becoming apparent when starting pitchers cannot work deep into games, placing an excessive burden on the bullpen. As Seattle considers its mistakes, its division rivals are not standing still, and each setback could prove decisive in the race for a postseason berth.

Phil Bradley’s “Ultimate” Grand Slam Sent Mariners Fans Into a Frenzy

As the Seattle Mariners prepare to celebrate their 50th anniversary, it is an ideal time to remember one of the brightest players in the team’s history: Phil Bradley. His career is an extraordinary story of transformation. He began as a singles-and-stolen-bases specialist and ended a season with 26 home runs and star status. But the most memorable moment of his time in Seattle came in April 1985, when he did something no one had done before or since in franchise history: hit an “ultimate” grand slam that gave the team an incredible victory. Bradley, now 67, still works for the MLB Players Association and fondly remembers the days when the Mariners were fighting for survival rather than championships.

Bradley’s story began long before the era of launch angle—the modern concept of hitting the ball at a higher angle to increase its distance. In his first 147 games with the Mariners, he did not hit a single home run, and he admits he does not remember hitting one in the minor leagues either. Instead, Bradley relied on speed and contact, as his instructors had taught him: hit the ball on the ground and run. But everything changed when new hitting coach Deron Johnson arrived. Johnson saw the potential for a power hitter in Bradley’s 6-foot, 185-pound frame. They spent the entire spring-training camp rebuilding his swing, incorporating principles once promoted by the legendary Ted Williams—an easy uppercut designed to match the trajectory of the pitcher’s throw. Bradley calls it a “fundamental change in thinking” and emphasizes that he owes his breakthrough to Johnson. He notes that these were the same principles that later became the foundation of modern analytics, but without the extremes characteristic of today’s game.

The results came quickly. In the Mariners’ third game of the 1985 season, Bradley hit the first home run of his career. Two days later, on April 13, history was made. The game against the Minnesota Twins had gone badly: entering the ninth inning, the Mariners trailed 7–4, with one final chance—two outs and the bases loaded. Bradley stepped to the plate without looking at the score and, on the very first pitch from Ron Davis, sent the ball over the Kingdome’s left-field wall. It was an “ultimate” grand slam—a bases-loaded home run hit when a team is down by three runs and the batter puts his team ahead. There have been only 35 such moments in MLB history, including Cody Clemens’ recent example in July of this year. For the Mariners, Bradley’s blast was the first—and likely the only—one in franchise history.

The stands erupted. The 24,676 spectators were swept up in a frenzy that lasted roughly six minutes. Bradley had to come out of the clubhouse to salute fans, who continued chanting his name even after he had left the field. Legendary Seattle Times columnist Bob Finnigan wrote that long after the hit, fans’ cries could still be heard beneath the stands. Bradley, now ranked among the top 50 players in franchise history, says he had the best years of his career in Seattle and considers that a great honor. The irony is that the “ultimate” slam was merely a preview of a magnificent season: Bradley finished with 26 home runs, 33 doubles, eight triples, 88 RBIs and 22 stolen bases, along with a .300 batting average. He was named an All-Star, and his season is still regarded as the best by a Mariners left fielder in terms of WAR, at 4.8, ahead of players such as Tom Paciorek and Raúl Ibañez. In franchise history, he ranks fourth in batting average (.301) among players with at least 2,000 at-bats.

The success of 1985 did not change the team’s overall fortunes in those years. Bradley recalls that the Mariners were not respected around the league, and there was even a joke about which former Seattle player would leave and start playing well in the postseason for another team. After Seattle, Bradley played for Philadelphia, Baltimore and the Chicago White Sox, ending his career after eight MLB seasons. He has now worked for the players’ union for 27 years, helping organize special events such as the Field of Dreams game between the Phillies and Twins in Iowa. His story is more than a memory of a spectacular moment. It is a reminder that proper instruction and persistence can radically transform a career, even if today such ideas are packaged in fashionable terminology and analytical models. Read more in the original article on The Seattle Times website.

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Amanda Knox’s play sparks new conflict with Meredith Kercher’s family

Amanda Knox is defending Cartwheel, a comedy show scheduled to appear at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. According to Knox, the production is about motherhood, raising a daughter in a world where women face injustice and violence, and the difficult choice of whether to tell a child the full truth about such dangers. The title refers to claims that, after the death of her roommate Meredith Kercher, Knox allegedly performed a “cartwheel” at a police station.

The Fringe is considered a venue for controversial and experimental work because of its open participation model: as long as productions meet organizational requirements, they generally do not undergo strict artistic selection. The festival’s independent venues allow politically charged and provocative projects to be presented, although that does not rule out protests, boycotts or the cancellation of individual performances because of security threats or violations of the law or venue rules.

After the show was announced, an online petition calling for it to be removed from the festival gathered more than 33,000 signatures. Its authors argue that the production mocks the circumstances of Kercher’s murder and turns the tragedy into entertainment. The victim’s sister, Stephanie Kercher, also spoke out against the show, emphasizing that the issue is not whether Knox is guilty or innocent, but that Meredith’s story is being used in a comedic format and given a public platform.

Knox rejected the criticism, saying on social media that calls to cancel the show were based on false accusations and an attempt to silence a “slandered woman.” She called the Edinburgh Fringe an appropriate place for such a production and said that Cartwheel preserves Kercher’s memory while drawing attention to the violence suffered by both the murdered woman and Knox herself.

Knox, a Seattle native, was a 20-year-old exchange student in Perugia when she was accused of killing Kercher along with her then-boyfriend, Raffaele Sollecito. After two convictions and subsequent appeals, Knox was finally acquitted of the murder in 2015. By then, she had spent about four years in an Italian prison.

After Knox returned to Seattle, she was often viewed as a local resident who had endured a difficult and, many believed, unjust legal ordeal in Italy. Local media covered her return extensively, while public support grew after her conviction was overturned in 2011 and her final acquittal in 2015. At the same time, attitudes toward Knox were not entirely uniform: some journalists and residents continued to question her account of events and criticized the sensationalized coverage of the case.

The charge that Knox had defamed Congolese bar owner Patrick Lumumba remained in place: she was sentenced to three years, which she had already served in detention, for falsely implicating him in the murder. Knox later appealed the decision, citing a finding by the European Court of Human Rights that her right to a lawyer and an interpreter had been violated during her initial interrogations. An Italian court again found her guilty on that count last year. Separately, Rudy Hermann Guede, whose DNA was found at the crime scene, was convicted of the murder and released in 2021 after serving most of his 16-year sentence.

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Based on: Amanda Knox’s comedy show outrages murdered roommate’s family

How to Increase Your Home’s Chances of Surviving a Wildfire

After recent fires in the Spokane area destroyed hundreds of structures, the threat of more dangerous weather events may seem especially frightening. However, experts emphasize that regardless of where you live, science-based measures can significantly improve the likelihood that a home will survive. Examples from Lahaina, Hawaii, and Whitman County show that even in areas that have burned completely, individual buildings can survive—and it is not always simply a matter of luck.

Preparation should begin by creating defensible space—areas around the home where the amount of combustible material is reduced. The simplest and most effective steps can be taken within the first five feet, or about 1.5 meters. Remove mulch, dry plants, firewood, debris, leaves from gutters, wooden furniture and cardboard boxes from decks. Ventilation openings and gaps should be covered with protective screens. These measures are particularly important because about 90% of homes damaged in wildfires are ignited not by the fire front itself, but by embers traveling ahead of the fire, which winds can carry significant distances.

Within 30 feet, or about nine meters, create a more carefully maintained zone: Prune branches, separate shrubs and trees, remove vegetation beneath trees, mow the lawn and maintain it regularly. In the broader zone extending to 100 feet, or approximately 30 meters, trees and shrubs should be thinned, dead wood removed and access for firefighters maintained. Trees around the home should be spaced apart so that fire cannot easily spread from one to another. Outbuildings and propane tanks should also be cleared of dry vegetation and other combustible materials.

More extensive preparation includes removing plants and wooden fences that touch exterior walls, using fire-resistant roofing and siding materials, and carefully sealing doors and windows. Exact clearance requirements depend on local regulations. Fire districts, county governments and Washington state environmental agencies may require the removal of hazardous vegetation, establish additional standards for areas at high risk of wildfire and require access for emergency services.

The main principle of preparation is simple: A home is less likely to ignite if there is no fuel nearby. This is demonstrated by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety: During a continuous ember exposure, a home with wood siding and mulch around it caught fire, while a building with safer surroundings remained undamaged.

Washington homeowners can contact the Department of Natural Resources, which provides wildfire-risk maps, risk-assessment tools and recommendations for creating defensible space. DNR resources and initiatives, including Firewise programs, help identify the most vulnerable areas, manage vegetation effectively and improve a home’s fire resistance. In some areas, local fire districts offer on-site assessments and consultations, often in partnership with the department.

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Based on: How to protect your home from a wildfire

An Online Radio Station in Ballard Broadcasts Sea Lion Voices

For Chris Mills, Seattle sounds like sea lions. From around October through June, their barks, bleats and cries carry from Shilshole Bay to his home in western Ballard. Some residents find the noise irritating, but Mills considers it part of everyday life: “I hear them when I go to bed and when I wake up. I like the sound.” When he learned the animals would soon head south, he decided to preserve their seasonal chorus.

Sea lions come to the Shilshole Bay Marina every year because of the abundant food, floating docks protected from waves and convenient places to rest. To reduce conflicts with the animals, marina owners install barriers and devices that prevent them from climbing onto the docks, temporarily close certain areas and remind visitors not to approach or feed the sea lions. Authorities enforce the rules and require the use of measures that are safe for the animals.

Mills, 62, recently ended a 30-year career in technology and created the website SeaLionRadio.org. The online station broadcasts recordings of Ballard’s sea lions around the clock for listeners worldwide. It is neither a live stream nor a scientific project, but roughly six hours of Mills’ own recordings played on a continuous loop. He jokingly calls the project “a flippered public service” and himself a local oddball.

The idea came up at Olaf’s, where Mills told a friend that someone should record the sea lions. They discussed how the animals had become a familiar part of Ballard’s soundscape and how the neighborhood grows quiet every year after they leave. Soon, Mills began driving to the Shilshole marina to make recordings. California sea lions typically spend the fall, winter and spring in Puget Sound, moving along the Pacific coast between Mexico and southeastern Alaska.

Ballard has historically been a center of Seattle’s fishing, shipbuilding and maritime trade. Fishing boats, tugboats, recreational vessels and seaplanes travel through the waterway connected to Puget Sound, making engine noise, horns and splashing water a distinctive part of the neighborhood’s everyday atmosphere. That is why Mills did not remove passing seaplanes and boats from his recordings: In his view, they help convey Ballard’s authentic sound.

The work turned out to be more difficult than he had imagined. Wind created noise in the microphone, while sea lions became less active in hot weather, so Mills had to make repeated trips to the dock. He recorded the animals wearing headphones, a hat and sunglasses, trying not to get drawn into conversations or capture people’s voices, construction work or excessive background noise.

During recording sessions, Mills simply sat on the dock without a book or phone and watched the animals. One day, about 30 sea lions were resting on the dock, while roughly 10 more swam nearby. Marina workers installed a plastic barrier and moved some equipment, causing the animals to raise their heads and become louder. But a service truck that appeared nearby produced too much industrial noise, so Mills stopped recording because it no longer matched the desired atmosphere.

About a month later, he decided he had enough material and launched the station without telling his wife, Brenda Savage, or their two adult daughters in advance. His wife found out when Mills returned home and announced that he now had Sea Lion Radio and his own stickers. At first she exclaimed, “Oh my God, what now?” — but quickly clarified that she meant it in the best possible way: After more than 30 years together, she was used to his unusual interests. Mills spent about $500 promoting the website, paying for hosting and producing stickers.

The red-and-black stickers feature a stylized sea lion with raised fists and the words “Straight Outta Ballard,” a play on the title of the well-known rap album and film “Straight Outta Compton.” Mills mails stickers to anyone who wants one and promotes the station mainly through friends and word of mouth.

His interest in strange and obscure subjects also appears in another project: He is writing a book about the rusting 112-foot gunboat Albert, which has been illegally moored in Ballard since 2019. The former military vessel fell into disrepair and was docked without the necessary permits. Authorities have ordered it removed, but the effort has been complicated by an unclear or changing ownership status, debts, legal disputes and the high cost of safely towing and disposing of it. Until responsibility is finally determined, Albert remains a troubled presence in the waterway. The vessel served in the Icelandic Coast Guard, took part in the “cod wars” over fishing rights and helped with the cleanup after the Exxon Valdez disaster.

Mills recommends listening to the station for at least 15 minutes to notice changes in the animals’ voices, their individual personalities, friendships and conflicts. He can distinguish California sea lions from the much larger Steller sea lions, which can weigh up to 2,500 pounds, or about 1,130 kilograms. In his description, the California animals sound as if they are fussing and fooling around, while Stellers make low, guttural sounds, as if asserting their dominance and asking everyone else not to disturb their rest.

The station has already attracted listeners far beyond Seattle. After posts on Reddit and the My Ballard website, traffic briefly reached nearly 600 people a day; it now averages about 10. People have played the station for their dogs, left it running for a week and said it made them feel closer to the marine world. One listener even regretted not being able to use the recordings at the memorial service for his father, a marine biologist.

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Based on: Sea Lion Radio brings Seattle’s barks, bleats and yaps to the world

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Judge Allows Budget Impact Assessment of Millionaires Tax Repeal

Thurston County Superior Court Judge Chris Lanese ruled that including information on the budgetary consequences of repealing the tax on high-income earners on November ballots does not violate the Washington state Constitution. The decision allows the explanation to remain on the ballot for Initiative I-645.

The initiative would repeal the capital gains tax, which is commonly called the “millionaires tax” in public debate. It is scheduled to take effect in 2028, with the first revenue expected in 2029. The tax applies primarily to large profits from the sale of long-term investments — such as stocks or bonds — rather than being a general income tax on everyone earning more than $1 million. Washington has no standard state income tax on individuals.

The accompanying text says repealing the tax would reduce funding for public schools, higher education, including universities and colleges, and social services, particularly health care. The current capital gains tax is a dedicated source of education funding, while sales taxes, business taxes and other revenues go into the state’s general fund.

The general fund is Washington’s primary operating budget, which pays for day-to-day government services. It supports education, public universities, Medicaid and many social programs. As a result, a decline in revenue quickly affects the state’s ability to support these areas. Washington is also generally required to adopt a balanced budget and cannot cover ongoing expenses through large-scale deficit borrowing.

The lawsuit was filed by open-government activist Arthur West. He argued that the state may not add its own wording to a citizen initiative after signatures have been collected and verified and the measure has been approved for the ballot. In his view, such intervention restricts citizens’ right to petition the government through the initiative process.

In Washington, an initiative is first submitted to the secretary of state’s office, after which supporters collect the required number of signatures. The secretary verifies their validity and compliance with the requirements. The attorney general reviews the measure’s wording and prepares its official title and summary but does not decide whether to approve the initiative on its merits. Once the signatures are certified, the initiative may go to a vote or be sent to the Legislature. Courts generally intervene in disputes over constitutionality, procedural compliance or the accuracy of signature counts, but they do not replace voters in making the policy decision.

West also argued that the wording about the budgetary consequences was not neutral and could influence voters’ decisions. The judge disagreed, noting that listing the largest or most likely spending areas remained a neutral way to inform citizens about the consequences of their vote.

Carl Smith, representing the state attorney general’s office, argued that withholding information about the initiative’s financial consequences from voters would be unfair. He said the explanation lists the three general-fund categories that would be most affected by a decline in revenue after the tax is repealed. State law requires such estimates to be published for initiatives that could change tax revenues.

Lanese’s decision to leave the text on the ballot cannot be appealed, but West plans to appeal his constitutional arguments. A separate lawsuit filed by Let’s Go Washington, which supports the initiative, was put on hold after the court’s decision. The organization wanted to rewrite the explanation, calling it misleading, and argued that the budget categories identified were inaccurately defined.

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Based on: Judge allows fiscal impacts from ‘millionaires tax’ on WA ballots

Seattle Gets a Brief Respite From Smoke, but Fire Danger Persists

After several days of wildfire smoke hanging over Seattle, blue skies returned above the city on Saturday. According to the state Department of Ecology’s forecast, air quality in the Puget Sound region will remain good or moderate through Monday, while westerly winds carry smoke eastward. Seattle’s air quality index ranged from 14 to 56 on Saturday. Readings above 50 are considered moderate and are generally safe for most people, but may pose a risk to residents sensitive to pollution.

Puget Sound is a large Pacific inlet that moderates the region’s climate and helps mix the air. Daytime breezes from the water can dilute and push smoke away, while nighttime winds can change its direction. However, the inlet’s influence varies across the metropolitan area: proximity to the coast, terrain, elevation, development density and temperature inversions all affect how quickly pollutants disperse. As a result, areas near the water may clear more quickly, while valleys and areas behind hills can retain smoke longer.

National Weather Service meteorologist Dustin Guy said that, thanks to the influx of air from the coast, smoke would continue moving away from Seattle early next week. Only light haze, cleaner air and cool weather are expected, with daytime temperatures in the middle of the week remaining around 70–79 F (21–26 C). Little rain is expected, however, so dry conditions and a high risk of fire spread will persist.

Outdoor fires, including campfires and backyard fire pits using wood or charcoal, have been prohibited in King County and Seattle since Friday. A statewide burn ban has been in effect since Aug. 1. Specific restrictions in Washington depend on the location and type of fire: the state Department of Natural Resources regulates land under its jurisdiction, federal agencies oversee national forests and parks, and cities, counties and local fire districts may impose additional bans.

In some cases, the rules allow the use of gas or propane devices, designated fire pits or cooking equipment, but such exceptions depend on the specific order in effect. Violations can result in fines, reimbursement of firefighting costs and criminal charges if a fire causes damage. These requirements apply equally to visitors and residents. Officials urge extreme caution with any source of flames or sparks, because even a minor lapse in judgment can start another fire.

While air quality improved in the western part of the state, 13 counties in eastern and central Washington remained under air-quality alerts because of smoke from regional fires. In some places, the AQI could reach “very unhealthy” levels: near Entiat, it rose as high as 2,600 on Friday, while at the southern end of Lake Chelan it exceeded 300 on Saturday. Fires around Spokane had already burned more than 16 square miles and damaged or destroyed about 900 homes, buildings and other structures. As of Saturday, the Autumn Lane fire was 47% contained, Old Trails was 43% contained and Fairview was 31% contained. An extreme fire-danger warning across much of eastern Washington was expected to remain in effect until late Saturday evening.

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Based on: Seattle sees blue skies as wildfire smoke blows east. For how long?

Seattle today: development, smoke, and a new “Huskies” voice

A controversial law has been passed in Seattle that limits public appeals of environmental rulings in order to speed up housing construction. Western Washington is sweltering under heat and wildfire smoke, and the University of Washington has for the first time appointed a woman—Elise Woodward—as the head commentator for the Huskies football broadcasts.

Seattle tightens the rules of the game: the city limits challenges to development plans

The Seattle City Council has adopted a controversial decision that significantly changes how residents, developers, and authorities interact. By five votes to four, the council approved a measure that eliminates one of the key stages of public oversight of land-use and development decisions. Specifically, it removes the ability for residents to appeal environmental findings before a decision is adopted through legislation. Previously, anyone could challenge the conclusions of an environmental review by paying a nominal $120; now that right is pushed to a later stage—after the decision takes effect—making the appeals process far more complicated and costly.

Supporters of the measure say the step is a direct response to abuses that have, in their view, been slowing down the construction of much-needed housing. Environmental advocates and concerned citizens have often used the appeals mechanism as a way to delay processes even when their concerns were not seriously grounded. A clear example is the current situation with the city’s One Seattle comprehensive development plan: an appeal filed last year still blocks its implementation. Seattle resident and musician Jennifer Godfrey of the Seattle Symphony has challenged the plan, arguing that it does not sufficiently protect orcas and salmon populations, and that given the 20-year planning horizon there will be no other way for citizens to influence events. It is exactly delays like these, the council argues, that drive up housing costs, increase commute times, and—critically—contribute to urban sprawl, harming the environment.

The advocates for eliminating appeals before legislative action—chiefly council housing committee chair Deonne Foster and the measure’s sponsor, Eddie Lin—insist that this is not a restriction on democracy, but rather an improvement. In their view, the old mechanism allowed a narrow group of opponents to derail constructive dialogue, the so-called NIMBYs (Not In My Backyard). Lin, a former real estate attorney, emphasizes that the Hearing Examiner is not a body of popular government, and that legal battles over whether environmental documentation is sufficient only distract from the main goal—reaching a compromise. He also notes that the new measure does not affect appeals of specific projects, such as highway construction or data centers, which preserves oversight of targeted initiatives.

It is telling that the public hearing before the vote lasted more than two hours, and although there were many supporters of expedited construction, the number of opponents was greater. Their main argument was not simply tree protection or concern for wildlife, but rather a hit to democratic procedures. Jennifer Godfrey called the ban on correcting dangerous errors in environmental review “an anti-democratic step.” Critics fear that from now on ordinary citizens will have virtually no leverage over decisions that will shape the city’s character for decades to come. However, Seattle Mayor K a thy Wilson has already said she supports the initiative, calling it a win for current and future residents. She plans to sign legislation that is expected to accelerate the “Up, in, faster” policy—aimed at dramatically expanding the housing stock and tackling the housing affordability crisis.

It is worth clarifying that SEPA (the State Environmental Policy Act) is a Washington state law requiring an assessment of environmental impacts for major projects. A Hearing Examiner is a quasi-judicial body that hears disputes related to land use. The new measure shifts the point at which decisions can be appealed from the “before” stage to the “after” stage—after the law is adopted—making appeals more complex and costly, effectively depriving citizens of a fast and cheap way to intervene in the process. In essence, Seattle is making a major maneuver: by giving up part of public oversight for construction speed, the city is betting that future benefits from more affordable housing will outweigh potential environmental damage that would have to be challenged in court later, after the fact.

A warm and smoky Seattle: why the air in Washington remains dangerous

Residents of western Washington are continuing to choke on smoke and endure the heat. According to meteorologists at FOX 13 Seattle, on Thursday the region will again be hit by a new wave of smog, and temperatures in Seattle will reach 30°C. At the same time, authorities are not rushing to lift air-quality and heat warnings—conditions are so serious that even a short walk outside in some areas can be compared to smoking several cigarettes.

The most alarming signal comes from Leavenworth, where pollution levels are so high that one hour outdoors is compared to smoking six cigarettes back-to-back. This is not a metaphor—it is a real calculation based on the concentration of PM2.5 fine particulate matter in the air. For people with respiratory conditions, older adults, and children, such weather can be genuinely dangerous, so doctors strongly recommend limiting time outside and using air purifiers at home.

The good news is that improvement is close. Starting Thursday evening, a sea breeze will gradually push smoke away from the coast, and by the weekend air quality in Seattle should improve significantly. However, the western wind that will bring relief to the city will play a cruel trick on the eastern areas of the state. On Friday morning, a fire-danger warning will be issued there: gusty winds and extremely low humidity create ideal conditions for fire to spread. Central Washington, where temperatures could approach 38°C, will be in the most vulnerable position.

Meteorologists note that this is a classic weather trap: the same air masses can save one region and threaten another. For the western part of the state, fire and smoke are the result of a dry summer, while the east is suffering because the wind fans existing fires and prevents firefighting crews from doing their jobs effectively. Even now, several major incidents are burning in the state, including the suspicious Old Trails Fire, where an alleged arsonist has been arrested.

By the weekend, the weather should start to return to normal. Temperatures will gradually drop to seasonal levels, and by next Wednesday residents of Seattle will be able to enjoy cooler conditions—thermometers are expected to fall to a comfortable 25°C. But experts warn against relaxing too early. Wildfires in Washington are not a one-off anomaly; they are the new reality under climate change, and similar stretches will repeat with frightening regularity.

According to FOX 13 Seattle, residents of the eastern foothills of the Cascade Mountains are at particular risk, where smoke will linger the longest due to the terrain. Local authorities are advised to keep an eye on older neighbors and not let children go outside unnecessarily. If you’re planning outdoor activities, it’s better to move them to Saturday, when the wind will clear the smog and the sky will brighten.

Elise Woodward: a new “Huskies” voice and a historic opportunity for women’s sports

In the world of college sports, truly landmark appointments are rare, but the University of Washington’s decision to bring Elise Woodward on as the lead commentator for Huskies football broadcasts is exactly such a case. A woman with 30 years of experience in sports broadcasting, a graduate of this very university, and a former captain of the women’s basketball team, Woodward is returning to her home institution to become the voice of one of the most prestigious college programs in the country. This is not just a swap of a game announcer on the air—it is a symbolic breakthrough in a field where football commentators have traditionally been associated with men’s voices.

Woodward says her relationship with the university began long before her professional career. As a prospective student, she fell in love with the atmosphere of home Huskies games—the same energy she will now be tasked with bringing to listeners. In an interview with KIRO 7 News Seattle, she recalls that it was precisely this atmosphere that led her to the University of Washington, where she later played basketball and provided sideline reporting while studying there. This path—from athlete to commentator—has made her a unique figure: she knows the game from the inside, while also bringing professional broadcasting skills honed over years working with the women’s basketball team Seattle Storm and the men’s team Seattle SuperSonics.

The appointment, however, comes with enormous pressure. Woodward’s debut will be on September 6 in the Apple Cup, the most high-stakes rivalry against Washington State University, which will be played for the 75th time. This is not just a game—it is an event watched by tens of thousands of fans across the U.S. Northwest, and for the new commentator there will be no warm-up and no general rehearsal. “There’s no soft landing. You’re not given a run-through or a warmup. You get the Apple Cup,” Woodward says with a smile, emphasizing that she is ready for the challenge. She’s confident that once she puts on her headset, adrenaline and her knowledge of the game will take over: “I’ll put on the headset and I’ll just be burning with enthusiasm—I know that for sure.”

The story also carries special significance in context. Woodward is a woman who has broken into the elite tier of college football broadcasting, where women’s voices still remain rare. She understands the weight of the moment, saying she hopes to “open doors for others” and do her job so well that the next generations of women commentators will have more opportunities. That statement feels especially meaningful given her current work with Portland Fire (the women’s soccer club), where she serves as a freelance commentator. For Huskies fans, this appointment is not only a reason for pride—it’s also a sign that the university is willing to change and become more inclusive.

As for the technical details, the September 6 game will begin at 1:00 p.m. local time and will be broadcast on NBC. Two weeks later, on September 19, the Huskies will play their first home game of the season against the Ducks at 12:30, and that match will be shown on USA Network. For Woodward, the season promises to be packed, but she is clearly ready for the challenge. Her story is a reminder that there is still room for breakthroughs in sports, and that true love of the game—backed by professionalism—can break any stereotype. It’s worth wishing her luck in the new season—both in the literal and the figurative sense.

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Seattle’s new interim police chief promises to “calm” the department

Seattle’s new interim police chief, Andre Sayles, said he does not rule out applying for the job on a permanent basis. He said the experience he gained in his previous role in Beloit, Wisconsin, will help him handle the challenges of leading a large city department—though Seattle itself demands far more complicated management: higher political pressure, greater public expectations, and a more acute question of safety downtown.

In an interview given a week after his appointment by Mayor Katie Wilson, the 47-year-old Sayles said he has not yet had any specific conversations with her about what changes she wants to see in the police department. For now, he intends to broadly continue the course set by his predecessor, Sean Barnes, with possible small adjustments.

Sayles emphasized that he understands the temporary nature of his role, but believes he is an independent leader. He named public safety, protecting police officers and city residents, and working with other city agencies as his top priorities. One of the key themes, he said, remains fighting gun violence.

Sayles’ appointment came after Wilson demanded Barnes resign amid the shooting at Seattle Center, one of the most recognizable and symbolic places in Seattle—home to the Space Needle, major cultural venues, and festivals and family events. That tragedy therefore triggered significant political fallout: an attack on the sense of safety in such a space quickly became a question of responsibility for city officials. As a result of the shooting, three people were killed and at least four others were injured.

Wilson criticized not only the delay in informing the public—police updated the information only five hours later—but also that Barnes was out of town at the time of the tragedy.

Wilson also said separately that she will be looking for a leader who is constantly present in Seattle and limits travel to a minimum. For her, this matters because the police chief must be available for quick decisions, crisis response, and in-person coordination with city officials. Such a requirement is not unique to large departments, but during periods of conflict and growing concern about crime, it becomes especially noticeable.

Sayles acknowledged that he, too, sometimes leaves the state to see his family: his home is in Illinois, where his wife lives, and he rents housing in Issaquah. He said those trips may have to be reduced, though he does not intend to give them up entirely. If he decides to run for the permanent post, relocating to Seattle would become one of the key issues.

Sayles said he has three adult sons, as well as relatives in Wisconsin and Mississippi. He added that he is not very active on social media and values personal relationships because, for him, it is important to keep the human side of the work. At the same time, he did not rule out taking part in some professional conferences, believing they can be useful for sharing experience with colleagues from other cities.

Speaking about the new position, Sayles acknowledged that deciding to replace the person who brought him to the state from Wisconsin was not easy. He said he respected Barnes and wants to continue the positive momentum in the department that they started together. According to him, his job as interim leader is to “calm” the situation within the police department.

He also explained that he prefers not so much “open-door” leadership as an “open space”—meaning he will go to where his subordinates work rather than waiting for them at headquarters. In practice, this approach means more visible leadership presence in the city and near the units, which typically helps with quicker information sharing and maintaining a more trusting atmosphere in the department, though it leaves less room for remote management.

For now, his urgent task is the investigation of murders at Seattle Center. Police have already detained an armed 15-year-old suspect, and investigators are looking for other suspects. Sayles expects additional arrests, but he is not disclosing details of the case so as not to jeopardize the investigation.

Sayles began working for the police more than 20 years ago in Beloit, where in 2021 he became police chief. Before that, he served for 12 years in the SWAT unit group, four of them as commander of the unit. According to the Seattle Police Department, in Beloit under his leadership gunfire incidents fell sharply, and incidents involving shootings on city streets decreased as well. Mayor Wilson said she is confident in his ability to provide stability during the transition period, and that the search for a permanent leader will be conducted openly and at the national level.

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Based on: Seattle’s new interim police chief says his role ‘is to calm’

Primaries in Washington’s 3rd District expose divisions among Democrats

In Washington state’s 3rd congressional district, which covers the southwest of the state, incumbent Democratic congresswoman Marie Glüsenkamp Perez fell just short after most votes were counted in the primaries. As of Thursday evening, she was at about 37%, while her Republican challenger John Brown was at roughly 40%.

At first glance, that result leaves Glüsenkamp Perez in relatively decent shape ahead of the November election. But just as important was another figure: 17% of Democratic voters in the primaries backed her left-leaning opponent Brent Heinrich, who argued that she no longer represents Democrats. For one of the most competitive districts in the country, that is a notable sign of internal friction within the party.

Political scientists say the key question now will be how those voters behave in November. They will have to decide whether to support the incumbent congresswoman anyway, despite disappointment with her centrist stance, or simply not turn out to vote. The outcome of the race could depend heavily on this portion of the electorate, since Glüsenkamp Perez has been elected to Congress twice already, each time by a narrow margin.

The 3rd district is considered especially unpredictable because of its political makeup: it combines more liberal areas with more conservative ones, and election outcomes here are often determined by a small group of swing voters. Unlike many other districts in the state, this is where the parties typically fight the hardest.

The campaign kicked off immediately after the primaries as well. House Speaker Mike Johnson appeared with Brown in Vancouver at a brewery event, praising him for his military service and his experience as an entrepreneur. Johnson said the outcome of the race in the district could affect the fight for control of Congress, and expressed confidence that Republicans would keep and expand their majority. Vancouver, meanwhile, remains one of the major population and voting centers in southwest Washington, so that’s where campaign events most often take place—allowing candidates to speak directly with local residents and draw media attention.

The district is considered extremely important: according to the Cook Political Report, it is one of only 18 U.S. districts rated as “unpredictable.” In the fall, large sums of outside money are expected to pour in, because both Democrats and Republicans see this battleground as a deciding factor in the race for the House of Representatives. Voters in the district have already voted for Donald Trump three times in presidential elections, but then, twice, with a narrow margin, they elected Glüsenkamp Perez.

Her political profile remains unusual for a Democrat: a former auto shop owner, she entered politics without any prior experience in elected office and has gained prominence as a centrist, often diverging from her party’s line. That is what has drawn criticism within Democrats: Heinrich and his supporters accused her of not backing progressive initiatives strongly enough and of being willing to work with Republicans on certain issues—insisting that she is not a sufficiently consistent representative of the party.

Although Heinrich did not advance to the general election, his 17% is a test of whether Glüsenkamp Perez can rebuild her coalition again by November. Heinrich himself declined to endorse her and said he cannot urge his supporters to vote for her. Meanwhile, the congresswoman has continued to emphasize the theme of American manufacturing. On Wednesday, she visited an auto parts manufacturing facility in Vancouver and again underscored the importance of keeping production in the United States and pushing for the federal Right to Repair law.

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Based on: WA 3rd Congressional District primary exposes Democratic tensions

Mount Baker station to replace parking with affordable housing

In Seattle, just south of the Link light rail Mount Baker station, a visible change is under way: a familiar parking lot is disappearing, and a large complex of affordable housing will take its place. Neighborhoods around transit stations are especially important for development. They’re easier places to live without a car—public transportation is nearby, and the city is trying to build more housing where people can get to their jobs and services more conveniently.

The site is already fenced off, and workers are preparing the area for construction of homes aimed primarily at families with low incomes. This is not only replacing the former parking lot, but also an old laundry facility at the University of Washington. After those buildings are demolished this fall, a project long planned by El Centro de la Raza and Mercy Housing Northwest is finally expected to move forward. El Centro de la Raza is a local community organization, and Mercy Housing Northwest is a nonprofit affordable housing developer. They were given the site because both groups specialize in projects for low- and middle-income families and know how to pair building plans with public interests—not just commercial gain.

The land was transferred to the city six years ago with the condition that it be used for housing that will help prevent people from being pushed out of Seattle’s expensive market. Later, the University of Washington transferred 3.8 acres to the city for 99 years for $1 per year. That amounts to an almost symbolic long-term lease, so the site works toward a public purpose rather than generating profit. In Seattle, agreements like this aren’t everyday practice, but they’re used when it’s necessary to sharply reduce a project’s cost and make it socially meaningful.

The need for such housing in the city is immense. In recent years, Seattle has indeed become a leader in adding affordable apartments among U.S. cities, but that hasn’t made living more affordable. Rent and home purchases remain very expensive, so even new projects haven’t been enough to fully keep up with demand. There is especially short supply of family apartments with two, three, and four bedrooms. Studios and smaller units are easier and cheaper to build, but families need more spacious homes—and in affordable housing, those options are typically less available than families require.

The first phase is estimated at $206.5 million and is expected to be completed in 2028. Two buildings will rise on the site, offering 239 apartments for residents whose incomes are well below the area’s median. Most of the housing will be for families: almost all units will have two or more bedrooms.

At El Centro de la Raza, leaders emphasize that it’s family apartments that the city especially lacks. According to Deputy Executive Director Miguel Maestase, more studios and one-bedroom units are being built now, while families need housing that is both more spacious and affordable so they can remain in Seattle.

In addition to apartments, the project includes two parks—one open to everyone, and a second reserved for residents of the complex. One of the buildings will include the University of Washington’s first Rainier Valley Early Learning Center, where about 160 children will be able to receive affordable childcare and preschool education, and future teachers will be able to complete practicums. In the second building, commercial space is planned on the ground floor, such as for a café or restaurant.

All of this is literally a few steps from a light-rail station. At El Centro, officials say proximity to the train is an important advantage, but not the main motivation for future residents. For many, the deciding factor will be the fact that they can afford the rent, with convenient transit access serving as an extra benefit.

Seattle City Councilmember Diann Foster backed a package of measures that helped the city’s Department of Housing move this and other projects forward. Foster represents the part of city government that influences housing policy and the allocation of funds, while the city council makes decisions on financing affordable housing and determines which projects will receive support. On Mount Baker, the city is directing $38.2 million. Foster described a future where residents can drop a child off, grab coffee, have lunch, enjoy a park, and then get on a train right away—using city conveniences that currently don’t exist at this site.

In the first phase, the complex will include 72 apartments for families earning no more than 30% of the area’s median income. That is about $49,320 per year for a family of four. It will include eight of the 14 four-bedroom apartments, and the smallest units in the project will be at least two-bedroom apartments.

Four-bedroom units will cost about $1,400 per month, including fees and basic utilities. For comparison, the median rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Seattle in June was $2,400. Another third of the housing is set aside for families earning up to 50% of the median, and the next third for up to 60%.

The second phase of the project has not yet been funded and is expected to add two more buildings and nearly 200 more apartments. Parking in the first phase will be limited: 69 spaces for 239 apartments. At El Centro, officials acknowledge that it won’t be enough for everyone, but say that’s by design and driven by the budget—each parking space adds noticeable cost to construction.

The idea of developing the station-adjacent site began moving forward in 2020, when the University of Washington transferred land to the city for affordable housing and education needs, including early childhood development. In 2024, El Centro de la Raza and Mercy Housing Northwest were selected as the developers, and in late June the city provided them full access to the site through a 99-year lease for the symbolic price of $1 per year.

Leadership at the city’s housing authority also changed in parallel. The office is now led by Kelly Larsen, who previously spent several years working on policy and planning within the same agency and before that worked in affordable housing. Despite staffing changes, the work continues, and the authority’s budget has grown over the past decade from about $50 million to nearly $350 million.

The city has also announced an additional $100 million for the construction, renovation, and repurposing of housing into affordable rentals. The primary funding comes from the housing levy—a citywide tax whose revenue is directed to affordable housing programs. It helps finance the construction and preservation of lower-cost apartments, but it also makes city building efforts more dependent on decisions about how those funds are allocated. For El Centro, this project is only part of a broader mission: the organization runs 43 programs and services, ranging from substance-abuse prevention and childcare supervision to tutoring, courses for future homeowners, and help with business planning.

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Based on: Seattle light rail station swaps parking lot for affordable housing

Amanda Knox Defends Her Stand-Up Show at a Festival in Edinburgh

Amanda Knox, the American woman who was once convicted and later acquitted in the case of the murder and sexual assault of her British former roommate, Meredith Kercher, has responded to criticism of her comedy show Cartwheel at the Edinburgh Fringe festival. Knox said on Instagram that the performance does not mock the tragedy, but instead “honors Meredith Kercher’s memory” and is about the violence that was carried out against Knox as well.

The controversy was sparked by an interview with Meredith’s sister, Stephanie Kercher, by the BBC. She said the project “normalizes and trivializes violence against women,” and that it is especially unacceptable to turn such a story into comedy. In her view, it’s not a question of whether anyone considers Knox guilty or innocent: the very idea of giving this topic a stage platform seems wrong to her.

The show, opening on Friday and running for 11 consecutive nights, is built around the story of a woman nearly forty years old—a mother and a person who is finally angry about being unfairly deprived of her freedom. The title Cartwheel refers to a long-standing rumor that Knox allegedly did cartwheels in a police station after Kercher’s death. Such details are precisely what provoke outrage among critics who believe the tragedy is being used as entertainment.

Edinburgh Fringe is the world’s largest arts festival, where experimentation, freedom of form, and bold subject matter are especially valued. Theatre here often becomes a space for discussing personal, painful, and controversial stories without the strict constraints typical of more traditional venues—so it is this festival that frequently turns into a stage for provocative productions and works that trigger strong reactions and arguments.

The story of the case remains well known worldwide. In 2007, when Knox was 20, Meredith Kercher was found stabbed in their shared apartment in Perugia—a historic city in central Italy, the capital of Umbria, known as a university hub with large numbers of international students and tourists. The case immediately drew huge international attention: among those involved was an American student, the investigation dragged on, and courtroom battles and media attention in Italy, the United States, and other countries only increased interest in the outcome. Suspicion quickly fell on Knox and her then-boyfriend, Raffaele Sollecito. Knox spent nearly four years in prison, and in 2015 Italy’s highest court ultimately acquitted her and Sollecito. Later, in the murder case, Rudy Guede was found guilty, having served most of his sentence.

Since then, Knox has returned to the United States, has spoken publicly in defense of those wrongfully convicted, hosts a podcast with her husband, and has released memoirs. Amid a new wave of controversy, she called a petition to cancel the show “unfounded,” and said that Edinburgh Fringe is exactly the place where such work can be shown.

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Based on: Amanda Knox defends her comedy show at Edinburgh festival as honoring her murdered former roommate

Seattle cutting residency training sites for vulnerable communities

For Reyna Berce, visits with her baby to Dr. Ashwini Vaidhya at the Seattle Indian Health Board clinic have become an important part of family life. Berce says the doctor was attentive, observant, and did not judge her during pregnancy, so she wanted to keep receiving care there for her whole family. The news that physician residents like Vaidhya will soon no longer work at the clinic was a devastating blow.

The changes are tied to Providence Swedish’s decision to scale back some of its partnerships for training doctors with community medical centers. Starting in 2029, family medicine residents will no longer train at Seattle Indian Health Board, International Community Health Services, and Carolyn Downs Family Medical Center, part of the Seattle Roots network. Seattle Roots is a network of community health centers in Seattle where residents are not only treated, but future doctors are trained as well. Carolyn Downs Family Medical Center remains the only one of 13 clinics created by the Black Panther Party in the 1960s and 1970s that continues operating: it has weathered financial troubles, changes in the health care system, and has maintained strong support from the local community. The hospital combines its First Hill and Cherry Hill programs and is cutting 18 positions over four years—about a quarter of all roles.

Providence Swedish says the move is driven by expected financial losses tied to upcoming Medicaid changes, as well as a major $1.3 billion construction project on the First Hill campus. Changes in Medicaid could reduce funding for care for low-income patients, while construction work could temporarily complicate the hospital’s operations and its training programs. Clinic leaders, former and current residents, and patients acknowledge that serious economic pressures are being put on the hospital, but they say it is especially painful that low-income and nonwhite communities will be hit hardest. Experts warn that this could further strain local clinics and worsen the shortage of doctors in Washington state.

Former resident Sunmi Wentzel, who completed the Cherry Hill program in June, said it was her work at Seattle Indian Health Board and ICHS that made the residency special. She relocated across the country for the program and called it a “dream program.” She said it’s rare for a family medicine residency to include clinical training at clinics that mostly serve Asian patients and Pacific Islanders, as well as Black, Indigenous, and Latino communities. For patients like these, it is especially important for doctors to train not only in major hospitals, but also in community centers, where they face—every day—language barriers, distrust of the health care system, poverty, and cultural differences.

The partnerships are designed to benefit both residents and clinics. Residents receive required clinical experience and run their own patient panels, while the medical centers gain additional physician support and broader reach. ICHS chief physician Jeffrey Gibbs says the model teaches future doctors culturally sensitive care for immigrants and patients who often lack access to medicine. He added that losing six residents will hit the system because together they typically care for about 2,000 patients.

Gibbs worries that reducing positions will shrink the long-term pipeline of primary care physicians trusted by patients in Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. When current residents finish training, their patients will be assigned to existing physicians rather than passed on to new residents. Seattle Roots at Carolyn Downs executive director Brandy Taylor called the decision “deeply disappointing” and said that after 2029 there is no clear, simple way to preserve such training. In her view, Washington cannot afford to lose programs that prepare doctors for the future health care system.

At Providence Swedish, officials say they continue to support underserved patients and physician training, but they do not disclose why these specific partnerships were kept rather than others. The hospital says it wanted to retain sites capable of providing broad training. It says current residents will not have anything changed for them, and this year recruitment has remained at the same level. However, starting next year through 2029, the program will take six fewer people.

Even after the cuts, Providence Swedish says its family medicine residency will remain the largest in the state, with 51 positions. The rural family medicine program, with nine residents, will be affected only minimally. And at Seattle Indian Health Board, Dr. Vaidhya says it was especially important for her to work with patients like Berce and her five-month-old daughter Naziyah. She has one more year of residency left and plans to keep working at the clinic and learning from patients and mentors.

Vaidhya writes that this kind of format is at the heart of family medicine—caring for a person in all circumstances of their life. She believes that reducing positions will deprive future physicians of the chance to learn how to help American Indians and Alaska Natives, including in obstetrics and traditional medicine. Berce, who is a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians, says good doctors and the opportunity to train them matter not only for clinicians, but also for the communities themselves.

This concerns future doctors as well. David Van said he put Swedish Cherry Hill and Seattle Roots at the top of his list of desired programs because of the clinic’s history, its patients, and its work with marginalized groups. He noted that Seattle Roots was founded by the Black Panther Party and remains the only one of 13 original clinics that is still operating. According to him, the program was created as a path for people from historically disadvantaged communities to be able to care for patients like those communities they serve.

Van called the cuts “so discouraging,” and Brian Sedeño called them “heartbreaking.” He said that his residency at Seattle Roots taught him how barriers to accessing care shape trust between a doctor and a patient. He works with Spanish-speaking patients, interpreters, and physician educators, and he believes experience in a community health center is invaluable. Clinic leaders say that despite the blow, they intend to continue training new physicians because for their communities it is a question of the future, not just today.

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Based on: Seattle clinics and resident doctors heartbroken by hospital cuts

Seattle: a music festival and football ambitions

The Capitol Hill Block Party returns to its three-day format with headliners Muna, Wet Leg and Disco Lines. The Seattle Seahawks are looking for a breakthrough from Byron Murphy II, while Sam Darnold and Cooper impress at training camp.

Capitol Hill Block Party 2026: A three-day celebration of music and freedom in Seattle

Capitol Hill Block Party, rightly considered one of the brightest events of Seattle’s summer music season, is back this year with its familiar three-day format. After organizers chose to cut it to two days in 2025, fans had been eagerly waiting for the festival to return to its full, music-filled marathon. And judging by the announced lineup, those expectations were not in vain—organizers have put together a truly star-studded bill capable of satisfying a wide range of musical tastes.

The festival’s main headliners will be three performers with completely different styles—an approach that in itself signals organizers’ desire to make the lineup as varied as possible. The synth-pop trio Muna, which has long won over audiences with its emotional and candid work, will be a real treat for genre fans. Their music, steeped in queer culture and the unmistakable joy of self-expression, fits perfectly with the atmosphere of Capitol Hill—a neighborhood that has historically been the center of Seattle’s LGBTQ+ community. The British indie-rock duo Wet Leg, which practically burst onto the music scene and continues to hold the public’s attention, will bring freshness and immediacy to the program. Rounding out the trio of headliners will be Disco Lines, known to a broad audience for a remix of the track “No Broke Boys,” promising to pump the festival full of dance energy.

A DJ set by R&B star Tinashe is a special bonus for visitors, scheduled for August 8. Given her recent collaborations and busy concert schedule, fans are speculating about possible surprise cameos and special guests during her set. Still, even without that, the lineup already looks more than packed. Among other notable names are indie-pop collectives Magdalena Bay and Parcels, whose music has already found listeners both in the US and beyond. R&B singer Amber Mark will add lyrical depth and soulfulness to the program, while the appearance of Zach Fox—who successfully balances careers as a comedian, rapper, and DJ—promises to be one of the festival’s most unpredictable and possibly most memorable moments.

Particular attention is also deserved by performers who may be less well-known to the wider public, but are especially interesting to fans. Indie-rock band Momma has already made a name for itself on the underground scene, and their live shows are distinguished by a special kind of energy. Electronic R&B artist Rochelle Jordan, whose vocals and musical experiments have been catching the attention of critics, will also be an important part of the festival’s mosaic. But perhaps the most intriguing announcement is the debut of the duo Casi—its new project bringing together Enumclaw bassist Elijah Edwards and rapper Xayvien Young. Their unexpected mix of electro-punk and rap metal promises to be one of the festival’s loudest and most experimental performances, definitely drawing the attention of those looking for something new and unconventional.

For those who want to get ready for the festival and test their knowledge of it, The Seattle Times has prepared a special quiz that lets you dive into the history and traditions of the event. As noted in the original article, the festival continues to be an important part of Seattle’s cultural life, providing a platform for established stars as well as emerging talent. It’s worth emphasizing that Capitol Hill Block Party is not just a music event, but a true cultural phenomenon reflecting the spirit of the times and the mood of young people. The return to a three-day format signals the festival’s growing popularity and its ability to attract more and more listeners. For music fans, it’s a great chance to see a wide variety of genre-crossing performers in one weekend, and for the artists themselves, it’s an opportunity to perform for a diverse and appreciative audience in one of the city’s most colorful neighborhoods. Judging by everything, the upcoming festival is set to be a standout event bringing together fans of the widest range of musical directions.

Seattle’s “ninja”: why the Seahawks’ defenders and coaches are expecting a breakthrough from Byron Murphy II

A special atmosphere reigns at Seattle Seahawks training camp, and it has to do not only with the preseason routine, but also with anticipation for a big season from one of the most exciting young defensive players. We’re talking about defensive tackle Byron Murphy II, who in the team has already earned the affectionate nickname “ninja” for his incredible agility and array of moves. The past season was a real breakthrough for the 24-year-old: he recorded 7.0 sacks, putting him in the top three among interior defenders in the league by that figure, and his 25 stops in run defense were second on the team. But judging by the unanimous feedback from coaches and teammates, that’s just the “berries”—the “fruit,” they say, is still to come.

Head coach Mike Macdonald, known for building elite defenses, isn’t hiding his optimism about Murphy’s third year in the league. He says outright that he expects a “surge in productivity—specifically in the pass rush.” That statement is especially intriguing, given that last season Byron most often operated in the A-gap (between the center and the guard), meaning he played the role of a classic nose defender whose main job is to disrupt the opponent’s run plays. Putting up those sack numbers from that position is truly remarkable and highlights the uniqueness of the player’s skills. Now, with the coaching staff seemingly planning to use him more across the front, his potential as a pass rusher could open up even further.

Murphy’s defensive line colleagues are full of praise. Veteran Jarran Reed, who has played in this league for plenty of years himself, even says that last season Byron deserved an All-Pro selection. He notes that “his time is coming,” but right now he just needs to “add a little more respect to his name.” Reed emphasizes that the role the team asks Murphy to do—he does it better than anyone in the league. Edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu compares him to a “quiet assassin,” explaining the “ninja” nickname with the variety of movements that keep a defender elusive to blockers. According to Nwosu, Byron has finally started to believe in himself and has been showing leadership on the field—making his play even more dangerous for opponents.

The opinion of left guard Gabe? (Grey Zabel?) matters too—though the text says “Grey Zabel.” He’s the one who has to go up against Murphy on every practice. Zabel says the young defender is winning the leverage battle already at the start of the play, combining power for a bull rush with lightning speed for movement across the front. Zabel believes Byron has “no ceiling,” and is especially impressed by last year’s production achieved while playing nose tackle. Defensive coordinator Aden Durde echoes the general view, calling Murphy an “elite run-defender” and predicting that this season he will prove his quality both as a pass rusher and on defense overall.

It looks like an ideal storm may be brewing for Byron Murphy in Seattle: a mix of talent, growing confidence, more varied tactical responsibilities from the coaching staff, and relentless work in practice. If all these factors come together, we could be seeing the birth of a new elite-level defensive star. For now, teammates and coaches are doing everything they can to build fan excitement around their “ninja,” anticipating how he will once again pull the curtain back and show his real class on the field. More about the practice process and the team’s expectations can be found in a Seattle Sports piece.

Sam Darnold is heating up, while Cooper remains the main star: impressions from day 12 of Seahawks training camp

The twelfth day of Seattle Seahawks training camp was packed, though it began with an unexpected update: first-round pick running back Jadarian Price missed practice due to lower-body pain. After practice, coach Mike Macdonald didn’t speak with the media, so the details remain unknown, but the simple fact that Price was absent—he hadn’t missed a full practice session before that—immediately drew attention. For a team preparing for the season without Kenneth Walker III, the health of a rookie is critical. That said, practice has shown the coaching staff has options to cover for those who go down: George Holani and Emanuel Wilson were working with the first unit, and a recently signed rookie, T.J. Harden from SMU—who knows many of his college teammates—has started getting reps with the reserves.

The main storyline of the day, without question, was Sam Darnold’s play. The quarterback, who in the offseason was considered the No. 2 behind the rookie, has been looking more and more confident in camp. Two interceptions on Friday—one off a great play by linebacker Drake Thomas, and the other in an effort to find Cody White deep downfield—didn’t spoil the overall impression. Darnold showed he fully controls the offense: he moved well, threw accurate passes in the red zone, including two touchdown connections in a row—first to sliding Jackson Smith-Njigba in the corner of the end zone, and then to White deep. His connection for a 25-yard gain with tight end A.J. Barner especially stood out, after which Darnold found Cooper in the end zone with a precise throw.

Cooper Kupp, who turned 33 this summer, continues to prove that age is no obstacle. He was again the best on the field: around 45 yards on a slide route, several difficult catches in traffic against Devon Witherspoon, including the moment when the defensive back, after losing the matchup, shouted “aaaah” in frustration. All of it suggests Kupp is in great form. His chemistry with Darnold looks promising—especially since the pecking order at receiver changed after last season, when Smith-Njigba pushed Kupp into a secondary role. That means the Seahawks have two elite receivers at their disposal, which is a serious threat to any defense.

This session also drew strong attention from wide receiver Rasheed Shaheed, who spoke warmly about Darnold after practice. In Shaheed’s words, the quarterback sets a high standard every day and pushes his teammates to improve. Shaheed emphasized that workouts like this—where the best offense and defense meet—make the whole team stronger. And speaking of defense: there is clear progress in the battle for the third cornerback spot, with Nkemdiche?—the text says “Nikemeя Pritchett.” Pritchett intercepted a deep pass and continues to earn points in the eyes of the coaches.

Next up for the Seahawks is the “Football Festival” at Lumen Field, where the team will hold its first open practice at home after beating the Rams in the playoffs. Macdonald promises a more game-like atmosphere: more fans, more competition, and more opportunities for young players to show what they can do. It will be a test not only for the players, but also for the staff. As the coach puts it, the key is to let fans feel the spirit of the game, not just watch a practice.

As for roster news: the team signed linebacker Power Ekwols, who had been bouncing around practice squads for Chicago and Houston, but for a spot on the active roster he will still have to compete. It’s also worth noting that several key players—Charbonnet, Bobo, Oats—are still not ready to take the field, adding intrigue ahead of the start of the season. Overall, impressions from the practice are mixed: on the one hand, it’s encouraging to see Darnold and Kupp ready, but on the other, there’s concern around the running backs—especially considering Price’s injury. We’ll have to wait until Saturday, when the Seahawks take the field in front of their home fans, and perhaps then it will become clearer which direction the team is heading. For more details on the camp and its participants, see the The Seattle Times article, where the author breaks down every detail of the session.

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Hunting for Thousands of Species: How an Alaska Entomologist Studies Insects

According to scientists’ estimates, Alaska is home to up to 30,000 insect species, but only about 9,000 have been described so far. Every decade, the list grows by roughly a thousand species. Derek Sykes, an entomologist at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, has been trying to close the gap for two decades—one beetle, fly, and bee at a time.

At the University’s Museum of the North, there is an insect collection that, researchers hope, will one day include every species found in the state. The museum itself is Alaska’s largest natural history and ethnographic museum: it houses hundreds of thousands of specimens of plants, animals, insects, fossils, and cultural artifacts from across Alaska and other Arctic regions. Its collections provide a vast trove of data on biodiversity and changes in Arctic ecosystems, serving as an anchor dataset for research into climate, species migrations, and the history of Northern Indigenous peoples.

As curator of the collection, Sykes acknowledges that it may be less than half complete. Since 2006, he has expanded it from about 1,000 records to more than 400,000—representing roughly 2 million specimens. Sykes’s work is not simply about filling shelves in a museum basement: museum collections become permanent records of biodiversity, allowing future scientists to study species that, over time, may become rare or disappear entirely. Alaska is still in the early stages of documenting its diversity, while other parts of the world have had a two-century head start. In Sweden, for example—at similar latitudes but smaller in area—more than 30,000 species have already been identified.

Most of the species awaiting description in Alaska are lesser-known beetles and flies that likely have always lived here. Only a small fraction of finds are new to the state—for example, ticks from continental U.S. regions. Such introduced species number fewer than 100. This makes Alaska, according to Sykes, “the most ecologically untouched state in the United States.” At first glance, it sits alongside oil production on the North Slope and the effects of climate change. But much of the landscape remains wild: vast national parks, wildlife refuges, rivers, and forests are barely affected by industrial development, population density is extremely low, and oil drilling is concentrated in a limited area. Human pressure on landscapes here is minimal compared with other states.

Hunting for new species takes Sykes and his colleagues to the most remote places: the volcanic islands of the Aleutian chain, the Pribilof Islands, St. Paul Island (called Savuunğa), the North Slope, burned interior areas after wildfires, and the wet forests of Southeast Alaska. These places are unique in their own ways. The Aleutian chain and the Pribilof Islands are remote volcanic archipelagos between Asia and North America. Isolation and volcanic soils have helped foster many endemic species. They are also home to key breeding sites for seabirds and haul-out areas for marine mammals, including northern sea lions. Savuunğa is an Inuit village on St. Lawrence Island in the Bering Sea. This isolated island has been little affected by human economic activity, and it preserves unique Arctic ecosystems where rare and poorly studied insects survive—adapted to harsh conditions. The North Slope is an expansive Arctic tundra north of the Brooks Range, with permafrost, extremely cold winters, and a short, cool summer. For field researchers, it is a severe test: deep freezes, biting winds, polar night, and the lack of roads and infrastructure make transport and equipment delivery difficult.

After several weeks in the field, the entomologist returns to Fairbanks with cases filled with insects preserved in ethanol, paper envelopes, and tiny vials. The fieldwork ends, but months of cataloging and species identification lie ahead. Preserving insects requires unexpected methods. Bees, for instance, are rinsed in ethanol with soap and then dried with a hair dryer to restore their fluffy look—needed for species-level identification. Under the lab lights, Sykes and his colleagues spot unfamiliar specimens thanks to their close familiarity with known insect families.

Behind that knowledge is years of specialization. Sykes is a world expert on carrion beetles, and he has described several of their species, including one named for his wife and found in Nepal. DNA sequencing offers another clue: if an insect belongs to a known group but its genetic data do not match international databases, it may be an undescribed species.

Taxonomy, Sykes says, is more complicated than it seems. Even if a species looks new or unique to a particular location, it’s possible that no one has simply looked for it elsewhere. Some people think most of Earth’s biodiversity has already been documented, but the entomologist says that is only the tip of the iceberg: “A lot of science hasn’t been discovered yet, and what students study are just tools for understanding the unknown.”

There aren’t many entomologists in Alaska, and most do applied research—for example, how insects affect forests intended for timber harvesting. Sykes, however, focuses on broad documentation. “From the museum perspective, there’s a sense of urgency: let’s document it and put it in the museum so that 100 years from now, even if a lot has gone extinct, we still have specimens of what was,” he explains.

When Sykes started his career, there were plenty of insects in Alaska—what he calls “low-hanging fruit”—easy-to-find species. But rare species take far longer to track down. He compares the process to collecting Pokémon cards: “There are common and rare ones, and you have to buy a lot of common ones before you get the rare ones.” Twenty years ago, he collected everything. Now that the common species have largely already been collected, the strategy has changed.

Despite being relatively young, Alaska’s collection is among the top fifteen in the world by the volume of data published online. That has been made possible by the barcodes Sykes introduced for every specimen: “Each specimen is born digital” even before it receives a label. That is why the University of Alaska Fairbanks became the leading hub for documenting Alaska insects, rather than major museums in the contiguous United States. It is located in the heart of the state, giving researchers direct access to field sites and unique ecosystems. Arctic research has historically been built here, and the museum houses one of the largest collections of arthropods from northern regions. Major museums in the contiguous U.S. focus on other areas, whereas this university combines local infrastructure, experts in polar biology, and long-running specimen collection efforts.

The collection is stored in a basement in organized cabinets, protected for decades. With about ten years left in Sykes’s career, he hopes the university will continue investing in the position and find a successor with a similar vision.

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Based on: University of Alaska entomologist aims to collect every insect in the state

Washington State Supreme Court allows law graduates to skip the bar exam

The Washington State Supreme Court on Thursday granted many law school graduates a so-called “diploma privilege” — the right to practice law without taking the bar exam. It was a response to a notorious malfunction that led to the July exam being cancelled. Now, affected graduates who were taking the exam for the first time can choose: either to sit for a make-up exam in September or to decline testing altogether and receive admission to the profession immediately.

The incident happened last month at the Yakima convention center, where 645 graduates arrived for a two-day exam. Due to widespread connectivity problems, most participants were unable to answer even a single question. After hours of delays, the state bar association was forced to cancel the remainder of the test. The graduates had to put off entering their jobs, extend hotel stays, change flights, and continue preparing for an exam they believed was already behind them.

The choice to hold the exam in Yakima was itself a deliberate compromise. The bar exam in the United States is a two-day written test, which in Washington is administered by the State Bar Association on behalf of the state Supreme Court. Yakima is located roughly in the middle of the state, making it equally convenient for candidates coming from both the west — from Seattle and Tacoma — and the east — Spokane. Renting a large convention center in Seattle would have been significantly more expensive, and the exam requires a huge facility where hundreds of graduates write the test simultaneously under strict supervision. Yakima has a suitable convention center, and local hotels can accommodate visiting candidates. In addition, a smaller city is preferable for safety and confidentiality: exam materials are easier to protect from leaks, and the environment allows candidates to be less distracted than in a noisy metropolis.

The court said that there is no perfect solution in this unprecedented situation and tried to strike a balance between fairness to graduates and the need to maintain professional standards. A similar measure was used in the state in 2020, but then the cause was the COVID-19 pandemic. Deans of all three Washington law schools unanimously asked the court to take such a step starting from the time the exam was cancelled. The request involves the state’s three only law schools accredited by the American Bar Association: the University of Washington School of Law in Seattle — the state’s only public law school; Seattle University School of Law — a private Jesuit university; and Gonzaga University School of Law in Spokane — also a private Jesuit university. In 2020, at the height of the pandemic, their deans already appealed to the state Supreme Court with a similar request, and the court granted it via an emergency order because holding the exam in the usual format was impossible. That had been a temporary measure, and the exam later resumed in the standard format.

The “diploma privilege” does not apply to those who previously failed the bar exam in any state: they can transfer their payment to the 2026 or 2027 exams or request a full refund. The privilege also does not apply to participants with special accommodations who managed to complete the test; however, those who did not achieve a passing score will be allowed to retake the exam in February for free. Those eligible for the waiver must notify the bar association by noon on August 14.

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Based on: WA Supreme Court waives bar exam requirement for many after snafu

На ядерном объекте Хэнфорд ускоряют вывоз радиоактивных отходов из подземных резервуаров

Министерство энергетики США объявило о завершении откачки токсичных радиоактивных и опасных химических отходов из 24-го по счёту одностенного резервуара A-106 на ядерном объекте Хэнфорд в штате Вашингтон. На дне бака осталось около 4 тысяч галлонов содержимого, и теперь департамент экологии штата должен решить, соответствует ли это нормативным требованиям, чтобы официально признать резервуар пустым. Это уже третий одностенный резервуар, освобождённый менее чем за год; до этого с 2004 года темп составлял примерно один резервуар в год.

Роль штата в этом процессе объясняется не только географией: Хэнфорд — федеральный военный объект, но он находится на территории Вашингтона и обязан соблюдать федеральные природоохранные законы, которые штат уполномочен применять на своей земле. В 1989 году Министерство энергетики, Агентство по охране окружающей среды (EPA) и департамент экологии штата подписали юридически обязательное «Трёхстороннее соглашение» — план очистки Хэнфорда. А в 1992 году Конгресс принял Закон о соблюдении требований федеральными объектами, который прямо разрешает штатам привлекать федеральные ядерные объекты к ответственности за нарушения в обращении с опасными отходами. Поэтому департамент экологии выступает полноценным регулятором: он выдаёт разрешения, проверяет ход работ и может налагать штрафы.

Ускорение стало возможным благодаря изменению стратегии: вместо установки оборудования для каждой ёмкости по отдельности Министерство энергетики теперь сразу готовит инфраструктуру для целой группы резервуаров. Это сокращает простои и позволяет быстрее приступать к извлечению отходов. По словам менеджера Хэнфорда Рэя Геймера, каждый завершённый цикл снижает риски, связанные с ветхими резервуарами, и приближает переработку отходов. За последний год таким образом удалось освободить сразу три бака.

Отходы из одностенных резервуаров перекачивают в 27 более новых двустенных баков, где они будут храниться до переработки. Двустенные резервуары имеют два стальных слоя, поэтому любая утечка задерживается между ними и не попадает в почву. В октябре Министерство энергетики запустило завод витрификации, где отходы превращают в устойчивую стеклоподобную массу. Высокоактивные отходы — остатки переработки ядерного топлива для извлечения плутония — именно так связываются в стеклянные блоки. Такие блоки пока размещаются на специальном полигоне в центральной части Хэнфорда во временном хранилище: для них в США пока нет геологического репозитория, а отправка в коммерческие хранилища в Техасе или Юте законом запрещена. Параллельно планируется переводить в бетоноподобный материал часть отходов — сначала низкоактивные, а к 2033 году, как ожидается, и некоторые более радиоактивные. Зацементированные отходы, относящиеся к низко- или промежуточному уровню, могут размещаться на лицензированных полигонах Waste Control Specialists в Техасе и EnergySolutions/Clive в Юте при условии, что уровень радиации соответствует нормам.

Работы по освобождению резервуара A-106 заняли семь месяцев: подрядчик H2C перекачал около 79 тысяч галлонов отходов в двустенный бак. Это третий резервуар в группе A Tank Farm, который удалось опустошить. Ёмкости построили около 70 лет назад, и почти всё это время они содержали радиоактивные отходы, давно превысив проектный срок службы. Поэтому существует опасение, что в них могут возникнуть утечки, способные со временем достичь грунтовых вод и реки Колумбия.

Хэнфорд — одна из самых загрязнённых ядерных площадок США. Он находится в юго-восточной части штата Вашингтон, примерно в 300 км от Сиэтла, недалеко от Ричленда в регионе Трай-Ситиз. Площадку выбрали в 1943 году для Манхэттенского проекта: это была малонаселённая пустынная местность, обеспечивавшая секретность и безопасность, рядом протекала Колумбия, дававшая воду для охлаждения реакторов, а неподалёку проходили линии электропередачи от Гранд-Кули и других гидроэлектростанций. Удалённость от крупных городов, таких как Сиэтл, снижала риск для гражданского населения и затрудняла доступ посторонних. За десятилетия здесь произвели около 74 тонн плутония — примерно две трети всего плутония страны, — а на площадке накопилось 56 миллионов галлонов радиоактивных отходов, хранящихся в стальных резервуарах с бетонной защитой, закопанных под несколькими футами земли.

В 2015 году Конгресс и президент Барак Обама создали Манхэттенский проект — национальный исторический парк, в который вошли Ок-Ридж, Лос-Аламос и Хэнфорд. Парк включает не всю загрязнённую территорию, а историческую зону — прежде всего реактор B, первый в мире промышленный плутониевый реактор. Здесь произвели плутоний для бомбы «Толстяк», сброшенной на Нагасаки, и для испытания «Тринити». Статус парка не означает, что площадка безопасна: посетители допускаются только по ограниченным маршрутам в сопровождении персонала, а на соседних участках продолжаются работы по очистке.

Министерство энергетики просит признать резервуар A-106 очищенным до нормативов, заявляя, что были использованы все доступные технологии. Жидкие отходы из него, как и из других одностенных баков, удалили ранее, чтобы снизить риск протечек. Перед началом работ в резервуаре оставалось около 50 тысяч галлонов шлама и 29 тысяч галлонов солевого осадка. Самым сложным оказалось удаление шлама: доступ к нему возможен только через узкие трубы, идущие от поверхности до дна бака. Рабочие использовали струи воды под высоким давлением, а также повторно применяли уже извлечённые отходы для разрушения и разжижения шлама — эта техника не использовалась десять лет и позволила заметно сократить расход воды.

На сегодняшний день подрядчики Министерства энергетики удалили около 3,5 миллиона галлонов отходов из 24 одностенных резервуаров. Следующим станет резервуар A-103 в той же группе: извлечение отходов должно начаться в октябре, если позволит место в двустенных баках. Департамент экологии штата должен проверить документацию, прежде чем дать разрешение на удаление твёрдых отходов из этого резервуара. Ведомство уже подтвердило завершение извлечения отходов для 21 одностенного резервуара: это означает, что они либо очищены до предела технологических возможностей, либо в них осталось количество от

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Based on: Toxic radioactive tank ‘emptied’ at WA nuclear site. Pace picks up

Heat and wildfire smoke blanket Western Washington

Residents of Western Washington are set for another sweltering, smoky day on Thursday: temperatures could hover near 90°F (about 32°C), and smoke from wildfires will make the air dangerous for people with respiratory conditions. The National Weather Service issued an air-quality alert through 5:00 p.m., urging residents with health issues to limit time outdoors, keep windows and doors closed, and use air purifiers. According to meteorologist Dana Felton, wildfire smoke can worsen asthma and other respiratory illnesses, and in Seattle temperatures may fall just two degrees short of the record high of 91°F (33°C) for the day.

The good news is that the heat will not last long. East winds are expected Thursday evening, which—according to forecasts—will push smoke out of the region by Friday and bring relief over the next week. “Improvement is on the horizon,” Felton said. “By tomorrow, people will definitely feel the difference.” The weekend is expected to bring a gradual cooldown: on Friday, temperatures will rise to the mid-80s (around 29°C), on Saturday to the low 80s (about 27°C), and by Sunday the weather should return to normal with sunny skies and highs in the mid-70s (around 24°C).

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Based on: Western WA weather: Wildfire smoke clogs air as temps near 90 degrees

A Raccoon Surprise Appears in the Stands During Seattle Mariners Game

During the Seattle Mariners’ match against the Detroit Tigers—an event dedicated to the famous Ballard-area raccoon Jimothy—another raccoon was spotted right under the stadium ceiling. Fans quickly took to the internet: on Reddit, they dubbed it “Dumpster Danoti” and “Jimothy’s cousin.” One user said the raccoon was sitting high up in the upper tiers, “gathered a small crowd of fans,” and, it seemed, brought the Mariners good luck—the team won.

Jimothy himself became a viral sensation in July, after social media videos surfaced showing the raccoon with a shortened spine. In his honor, the club held a full celebration: the first 20,000 fans received a collectible rookie card featuring Jimothy, special jerseys were also released, and the team’s signature Jimothy character took part in the traditional “Salmon Run” on the field. The appearance of “the cousin” was an unexpected—yet fun—extra to the night.

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Based on: Video: ‘Jimothy’s raccoon cousin’ spotted at Mariners’ ‘Jimothy’ night

Seattle: AI pricing row, flight to Tokyo, and 11-0 rout

In Seattle, a dispute has erupted over banning algorithmic pricing, Delta is opening a new nonstop route to Tokyo, and the baseball “Mariners” suffer a humiliating 0–11 defeat at the hands of “Detroit.”

Seattle at a crossroads: cracking down on algorithmic pricing threatens discount programs

In Seattle, an intriguing standoff is unfolding between city officials who have decided to ban so-called “surveillance pricing,” and retail chains that argue that an overly broad ban would wipe out loyalty programs, coupons, and personalized discounts that millions of shoppers have come to expect. The city council is preparing to put forward an ordinance on fair pricing and transparency, aimed at blocking the use of artificial intelligence and personal data to set individual product prices. The idea sounds noble: no one wants to pay more for the same product just because an algorithm decided you’re able to pay. But, as often happens with good intentions, the devil is in the details—and those details are now fueling heated arguments.

At face value, the initiative is simple: prohibit companies from using personal information and AI so that one consumer is shown a higher price than another, based on their digital profile. Supporters of the ban cite alarming examples of how online retailers can vary prices depending on geolocation, device type, or even the language of a browser. This practice, which the U.S. Federal Trade Commission has dubbed a “shadow ecosystem,” has long been a concern for regulators and lawmakers. Senator Josh Hawley, a Republican from Missouri, delivered an especially charged description of it during a recent hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, calling it “an unholy trinity of everything Americans hate”: spying on people, ripping them off, and destroying jobs. In his view, this ranks among the biggest deceptions in American history, driven by the marriage of the AI industry and mega-corporations trying to profit from every consumer.

However, there’s another side to the coin—and retail representatives are speaking out loudly. Amanda Dalton, president of the Northwest Grocers Association, representing 455 retailers in Washington, is sounding the alarm: in its current form, the ordinance is too vague and puts essentially all discount programs, coupons, and bonuses at risk. She emphasizes that her members do not use personal data to manipulate grocery prices; instead, they use it for perfectly harmless targeting. If you buy cat food every week, you receive coupons for cat food—not dog food. In her words, consumers voluntarily participate in these programs because they want to save money, and if the law is written incorrectly, it will be the shoppers who are harmed first.

Retailers have already launched the Protect Seattle Savings campaign, urging the city council to return to the negotiating table. They proposed their own amendments which, they say, would ban the use of personal data to raise prices while preserving discount and bonus systems. But judging by a statement on the coalition’s website, the document submitted to the council does not take those proposals into account. The situation is a classic conflict of interpretations: lawmakers want to kill the dragon of price discrimination, while retailers fear that along with the dragon, all the “princesses” in the form of discounts will perish too. In this context, as Dalton correctly notes, the only guaranteed loser under a badly drafted law will be the consumer—who would lose both protection from manipulation and the familiar ways to save. More details are covered by KOMO News, which notes that the debate in Seattle could become a precedent for the entire country as it tries to strike a balance between technological progress, data protection, and business interests.

Delta launches new nonstop flight Seattle — Tokyo: what it means for travelers

Delta Air Lines has announced the launch of a new daily nonstop flight between Seattle and Tokyo’s Narita Airport. Flights will begin in late March, and tickets will go on sale soon. This is important news not only for tourists, but also for business circles in both countries: Japan remains one of the key destinations in the airline’s international network, and expanding the route map between the two largest airports in Tokyo gives passengers far more flexibility and convenience.

The new route will be served by a modern widebody Airbus A330-900neo. On board, passengers will be offered four service classes: Delta One (business class with fully lie-flat seats), Delta Premium Select (an upgraded economy class), Delta Comfort (economy class with extra legroom), and standard Delta Main. This range lets the airline serve both corporate customers and travelers with different budgets.

A key point in the announcement is that Delta already operates a nonstop route between Seattle and another Tokyo airport—Haneda. Now the airline will serve both of Tokyo’s main air hubs at the same time. Narita is traditionally considered a major international hub that handles many flights from around the world, while Haneda is located much closer to the center of Tokyo and is convenient for those who want to reach the city faster. Having two flight options is not just an additional choice, but a real competitive advantage: travelers will be able to select a flight based on their final destination, arrival timing, and even price.

Delta says demand for business travel between the United States and Japan remains consistently high. A company spokesperson, Jeff Arinder, vice president of international network planning, called Japan one of the most important and favorite destinations in the airline’s global network. In turn, Seattle Port Commissioner Toshiko Hasegawa said that expanding service to Narita and Haneda strengthens economic and cultural ties between Japan and the U.S. Pacific Northwest. The new flight also significantly increases cargo capacity between American and Japanese markets—especially important for exporting fresh products, electronics, and other goods where delivery speed is critical.

Against this backdrop, it’s worth noting the competitive landscape. Today, Delta is the largest international carrier at Seattle–Tacoma Airport, serving more than 62 destinations. At the same time, local carrier Alaska Airlines, often seen as Seattle’s “home” airline, also offers flights to both Tokyo airports—but through its partners. Last year, Alaska launched its first daily route to Japan’s largest city. As a result, competition on the Seattle — Tokyo route is fairly intense—which ultimately benefits passengers: it typically leads to more flexible fares and improved service quality.

It’s also helpful to explain how the two Tokyo airports differ, since that often causes confusion. Narita is located about 60 kilometers east of downtown Tokyo, in Chiba Prefecture. Getting from there to the city is possible by train or bus, but the trip takes anywhere from about an hour and a half to as long as 1.5 hours. Haneda, by contrast, sits almost within the city itself, just 15–20 minutes by car from the central districts. However, historically Narita has long been Japan’s main international gateway, and many airlines maintain flights there. For passengers traveling to Tokyo, choosing the airport can be decisive: if you have meetings in the business district, Haneda is more convenient, while if you’re traveling with transfers to other Asian destinations, Narita may be logistically easier.

As for the Airbus A330-900neo aircraft, it is one of the most modern mid-range jets. The “neo” stands for new engine option—new engines that allow for significant fuel savings and reduced noise compared with previous generations. For passengers, that means a quieter flight and better cabin humidity, which is especially important on long routes of around nine hours.

The arrival of the new route is not just about convenience for travelers; it also signals the recovery of international air travel after pandemic restrictions. Japan long remained one of Asia’s most closed-off countries for tourists, and the gradual reopening of borders is being accompanied by airlines ramping up frequencies. For Seattle—a major technology and cultural hub on the U.S. West Coast—strengthening links with Tokyo has strategic importance. The city has historically had a large Japan–U.S. diaspora, and companies in IT, aviation, and biotechnology maintain close business ties with Japanese partners.

Ultimately, launching the new flight expands options for thousands of passengers who regularly fly between North America and Asia. With Delta serving Narita and already serving Haneda, travelers will have more choices in departure and arrival times, and they can also select the airport based on their specific plans. As noted in a The Seattle Times report, the airline’s decision reflects sustained demand for the Japanese route and strengthens Seattle’s position as an important international aviation hub. Now it remains only to hope that competition and the growing number of flights will lead to more affordable ticket prices—which would be great news for everyone dreaming of a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun.

Detroit routs Seattle 11–0 and moves within striking distance of a wild-card spot

On Thursday, the Detroit Tigers handed the Seattle Mariners a statement-making beating at their home ballpark, finishing the game 11–0. The visitors didn’t just win big—they did it at a crucial point in the season: the Tigers won their fifth game in their last six and now trail the Texas Rangers by just one game in the race for the final spot in the American

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Seattle creates register of protected homeowners from intrusive buyout offers

The Seattle City Council has passed a law that will allow homeowners to voluntarily add themselves to a special “do not disturb” register—listing people who do not want to receive offers to buy their homes. The initiative is aimed at tackling harassment and exploitation by speculators who try to snap up homes at below-market prices. The bill was introduced by City Council member Dionne Foster, a longtime activist and advocate for tenants’ rights in Seattle. She is known for her work promoting social housing, strengthening protections for apartment tenants against eviction, and supporting initiatives for shared ownership of land and housing. In 2023, she ran for the City Council to represent tenants’ interests and fight the housing crisis, and although she did not win then, her voice regularly appears at hearings on land-use policy and housing affordability. Foster said the new measure will help protect those who face the risk of losing not just a home, but also wealth built up over generations.

The register will begin next year under the management of the City of Seattle Office for Civil Rights. Contact with people included in the list—calls, letters, emails, flyers, and door visits—with offers to buy or help sell housing will be considered a violation of housing rights. For a first violation, a $1,000 penalty will apply; for each subsequent violation within the year, the fine will be $2,000. Foster emphasized that such actions often resemble an endless stream of intrusive advertising that many property owners are familiar with.

The law was prompted by a crisis of displacement of Seattle’s Black community, especially in the historic Central District neighborhood. The Central District was not an accident—it has long been a center of Black culture and the city’s political life. In the first half of the 20th century, racial restrictions and “redlining”—when banks refused to issue mortgages in “blighted” areas—effectively confined African Americans here. Thousands of Black workers also moved in, coming to the shipyards during World War II. Later, however, the area was subjected to devastating transformations: in the 1960s, the construction of Interstate 5 cut through its eastern part, and many homes were demolished as part of “urban renewal.” Then the repeal of discriminatory rules, rising housing prices in the center of the city, the tech boom, and a large influx of white residents set gentrification in motion. In the 1970s, three out of four Central District residents were Black; today, they are less than 15–20%. Black families are being pushed into the southern suburbs, and local activists have been trying to stop that process for decades.

Leaders from the Black Legacy Homeowners project and a 2021 report titled “Catastrophic Gentrification in King County” played a special role in shaping the law. King County is the largest county in Washington State and includes Seattle and many suburbs, including Bellevue, Renton, and Kent. The county functions as a regional government: it runs public transportation, the healthcare system, and land resources, and through special taxes and funds it finances the construction of affordable housing, addresses homelessness, and regulates regional growth. At the same time, the county’s infrastructure projects and investments in specific neighborhoods raise prices there, often accelerating gentrification and displacing low-income residents. As a result, King County policy directly affects who can remain living in Seattle and its surrounding areas.

The report noted that practices reminiscent of today’s speculation trace their roots to “blockbusting”—a tactic banned in 1968, when real estate agents pressured white homeowners to sell their homes quickly out of fear that people of another race would move into their neighborhood. Although the practice became illegal, predatory methods did not disappear—they simply became more sophisticated. Those targeted include older people, people with disabilities living on fixed incomes, and residents of neighborhoods that speculators believe are about to be “switched” in terms of demographics.

Foster gave an example: one Central District resident received in the mail a sales contract that was already filled out and signed, along with a note saying, “per our conversation, sign and return.” There had been no conversation—this was a fraudulent scheme, which Foster described as exhausting and demoralizing. Seattle is joining other cities that have already restricted these practices: among them are New York, Jersey City, and Philadelphia, where a register was created in 2020 to protect against house flippers that buy homes without investing and then resell them quickly at a markup.

The bill received broad support at public hearings, including from representatives of the real estate industry. At the same time, they secured approval of an amendment excluding mass general advertising mailings from the definition of a “buy offer.” The amendment, introduced by Council member Maritza Rivera, and the main bill were adopted unanimously. Foster emphasized that the register will not just get people out of unwanted calls, but will become a real tool to protect Black communities, older residents, and everyone fighting gentrification and displacement from their home neighborhoods.

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Based on: Seattle council bars homeowner solicitations to fight displacement

Seattle airport detainee becomes U.S. citizen

Lewelyn Dixon, who had a green card for years and was detained last year by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at Seattle-Tacoma Airport, is now a U.S. citizen. The airport—located roughly halfway between Seattle and Tacoma—is known in everyday talk as Sea-Tac: it serves not just Seattle, but the entire Puget Sound region, where cities and suburbs have merged into a single metro area. Notably, a separate city called Seatac has grown up next to the airport. This is where Dixon returned from a trip to the Philippines in February 2025, and where she was arrested. It was one of the most high-profile detentions in the first weeks of Donald Trump’s sweeping campaign of arrests and deportations: Dixon, whom friends and family call “Auntie Lynn,” immigrated to the United States more than 50 years ago and held a green card for decades. Her case reflected the administration’s aggressive approach—targeting people who previously would not have been pursued.

Just a little over a year after being released from a detention center in Tacoma, Dixon took her oath, gaining all the legal rights and protections tied to citizenship. Coincidentally, the ceremony took place on her 66th birthday. “This is amazing. I still can’t believe it,” Dixon said in a recent interview. “I’m looking at my citizenship document and thinking, ‘Wow, it’s real—I really am here.’”

Dixon spent three months at the Northwest ICE Processing Center (a private lockup under contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE), where people are held while their deportation cases are pending. The center houses asylum seekers and people who violated visa rules. Because it is privately run, has harsh conditions, and faces constant criticism from human rights advocates, the center has become a symbol of the hardline U.S. immigration policy. For Dixon, that time was a defining event that showed how the system works.

In immigration court, authorities pointed to two criminal cases involving Dixon; the more serious was a 2001 conviction for embezzling about $6,500 from Washington Mutual, where she worked as a cashier in a vault. Washington Mutual was a major savings bank and mortgage lender founded in Seattle in 1889. It was one of the largest banks in the United States and an important employer in the city—until it collapsed in 2008 during the mortgage crisis: it became the largest bank failure in U.S. history, and its assets were bought by JPMorgan Chase. Dixon did not serve jail time: by court order, she spent 30 days in a rehabilitation center and returned the stolen money. Previously, those convictions had not prevented her from renewing her green card and traveling abroad, but this time they drew the attention of immigration authorities. In May 2025, Judge Tammy Fitching ruled that Dixon should not be deported, granting a form of protection that lawful permanent residents with at least five years of status can qualify for, provided they have not committed certain serious crimes.

“Now I can breathe a sigh of relief, because she has papers and won’t have to go through it again,” Dixon’s niece, Donna Cristóbal, said. “It was really hard for us—for our whole family.” A week after her release, Dixon returned to full-time work at the University of Washington, where she works as a lab assistant. It is the state’s oldest and largest public university, one of the leading research institutions in the United States, and a major engine of Seattle’s economy. Working there is considered stable and prestigious, thanks to public funding, social safety nets, and retirement programs. About a month after her release, Dixon filed an application for citizenship.

When asked why she decided to naturalize, Dixon joked, “Well, why not?” Her niece, Melania Madiaga, was more specific: “We knew she constantly needed to travel to the Philippines, but there was no protection. We weren’t going to take that risk anymore.” Dixon had long been eligible to apply, but she didn’t do it—she had promised her father in 1974 that she would not give up her Philippine citizenship and would not risk the family’s land. The laws have since changed, and the Philippines now allow dual citizenship, but Dixon did not know that.

In the weeks and months after her release, the family stayed on high alert for the threat of another arrest. Relatives warned Dixon to never speed and not post anything on social media that could draw authorities’ attention. Every day they messaged to ask where she was. For her naturalization interview in October, Dixon showed up with family members and an attorney, having heard stories about other green card holders who were detained during such interviews. Dixon was also afraid that the time she spent at the detention center would raise questions with immigration officials. She passed the exam, but the officer said that additional background checks would be required. The family anxiously waited for months: the number of immigrants becoming citizens had been dropping sharply, and by the end of 2025, USCIS tightened screening and paused processing applications from a set of countries that the Trump administration considered “high-risk groups.” In May, the agency approved a record-low number of naturalization applications—17,038, compared with more than 82,100 the year before.

Fortunately, in January, Dixon received notice that her application was approved and that she would have her oath ceremony within 30 days. Thirty days passed, but no date appeared, and she started to worry again—especially after other future citizens reported unexpected cancellations of ceremonies. Finally, she was given a date, and on July 20 Dixon became a citizen of the country that had tried to deport her just a little more than a year earlier. “Hooray, it’s finally over,” she said.

After her oath, Dixon went to the office of the Pierce County Executive to apply for a passport. In Washington, counties are major administrative units that handle matters beyond individual cities—courts, elections, vital records, healthcare, and passport applications. City governments handle police, parks, and roads within city limits, while Pierce County includes Tacoma and its surrounding areas. An employee was impressed by how organized Dixon had been, bringing all the required documents. “I told them, ‘I was just really excited,’” Dixon recalls. “I still can’t believe that from being detained I got to this—and actually became a citizen.”

Dixon keeps memories of her time in detention, along with stories of ingenuity and survival from other detained women. She no longer likes the ramen she used to buy often from the jail store because of how bad the food was, and she can’t stand the sight of bologna. She remembers women making dinner from leftovers from other meals, microwaving tamales, and someone plucking her eyebrows with thread made from unused tampons. She cherishes a small beaded bracelet given to her by an Afghan woman: it is made from a belt elastic, and the beads are made from dried rice paste and colored pencils.

Deep down, Dixon and her family still fear that citizenship could be taken away. The Trump administration has launched an unprecedented campaign to denaturalize people officials say received citizenship unlawfully. “Naturalization protects you, but fully—right?” Madiaga asks. “This administration is so unpredictable.” Despite the worries, life goes on. On a recent Friday evening, Dixon gathered at her home in Edgewood with her nieces, their children, and grandchildren—while a pot of chicken adobo was simmering on the stove and a Seattle Mariners game played on television. In the region, the Mariners are part of family culture: baseball is slow and leisurely, T-Mobile Park sits right in the middle of the city, and the team that arrived in 1977 has long been a symbol of Seattle—even without a championship. Love for the team is passed down from generation to generation, recalling the era of Ken Griffey Jr. and Ichiro. Above, Dixon let her cat, Mozzy—named for a character in her favorite show, White Collar—down onto the floor, and the family laughed about his size. Her grand-niece Yasmin Antonio, the daughter of a niece, joked, “Sorry you were detained. We didn’t know how to feed him. I don’t have a cat!” Later, as the family filled plates with lumpia and shrimp toast, Dixon noticed the busy bustle and said, watching the action, “This is my loud, lively family. My support. My forever.” Dixon plans to retire at the end of this month, and in October she plans to go on vacation to the Philippines.

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Based on: WA resident Lewelyn Dixon, held by ICE for 3 months, now U.S. citizen

Lucas Jumalon of Spokane wins WSOP Main Event for $10 million

Late Wednesday evening in Las Vegas, the World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event ended. The 22-year-old Lucas Jumalon, a Ferris High School graduate from Spokane, won it all. In the final, he defeated Finnish player Lauri Saaskilahhti at the Horseshoe casino to take home the top prize — $10 million. Jumalon needed just a little more than an hour of heads-up play to claim the title.

Before the champion appeared at the final table, six men in black suits, holding briefcases in both hands and escorted by armed security, brought $10 million in cash into the room. The money was poured onto the table and stacked into a pyramid so both finalists could see what was at stake. Jumalon himself arrived about half an hour later in a pristine white polo, ready to play.

His father, Butch, a solid player in his own right, admitted that he’s proud of his son but can’t shake the nerves. “It’s like standing at the edge of a cliff and waiting for the next gust of wind,” he said. “Because this is poker.” Jumalon’s opponent was considered unpredictable, which only added intrigue.

Fans split into two camps: Lucas’s friends and family wore black, while Saaskilahhti’s supporters wore white. Some chanted “Lucas!” others called out “Ole! Ole! Ole!” A group from Spokane shouted “Spo-Spo-Spokane!” and “Go, Spokane!” They also wished good luck to the Spokane Red Cross, as wildfires were raging in the area and more than 800 homes had burned. The news appears to refer to the devastating Grey and Oregon Road fires in August 2023. Eastern Washington, in particular, is especially vulnerable to fire: its dry climate, hot summers, strong winds, and extensive pine forests can turn any blaze into a large-scale disaster fast. The local Red Cross coordinated evacuations, opened temporary shelters, distributed food, water, hygiene supplies, and provided psychological support. Spokane residents donated money and items and signed up as volunteers to help neighbors who had lost their homes.

The finalists started the game nearly even: Jumalon had 328 million chips, while the Finn had 225 million. In an early big hand, luck favored Jumalon — he won the big pot and built his stack to 418 million, leaving his opponent with 135 million. But there was no time to relax.

Jumalon later admitted he was afraid of his opponent. “I was terrified,” he said. “I kept thinking about Mike Tyson — he said he was afraid to die on the ring before the fight. I was scared that Saaskilahhti would take me out today.” The concerns were not unfounded.

Around 7:20 p.m., the Finn went all in. On the flop, both players had an ace, and on the turn, Jumalon got a nine that gave him two pair. But on the river, a six of clubs came out — and Saaskilahhti made a flush. Jumalon’s smile vanished instantly, while the Finn clenched his fist and rallied his fans waving white flags with a blue cross. Lucas dropped to 287 million, while his opponent rose to 266 million.

In the next big hand, four cards of spades hit the board. Jumalon bet 180 million, forcing the Finn to let out a heavy sigh. “You got it?” Saaskilahhti asked. No answer came, but he still called. Jumalon had a queen of spades — a flush. The Finn’s stack crashed to 34 million, while the 22-year-old from Spokane surged to 519 million.

In the very next hand, Jumalon bet 38 million, forcing his opponent to go all in. Lucas had the king of spades and a six of clubs, while the Finn had an ace of spades and a seven of clubs. On the flop came a six, and on the turn another six, making three of a kind. It was over. Jumalon grabbed the bundles of money, pressed them to his chest, and shouted, “Let’s go, baby!” Then he shook hands with the smiling Saaskilahhti.

“Poker gave me so much,” the new champion said. “I’ve met so many people, and I’m just unbelievably grateful to everyone who’s here. I couldn’t have dreamed of a better moment.” As he spoke, his friends from Spokane chanted three numbers — “509!” — the area code of his hometown. For people in eastern Washington, it’s more than just a number: “509” has become a symbol of regional pride. Seattle and the western part of the state have their own code, “206,” while “509” brings the entire east together — underscoring that Spokane is its own hub, not a satellite of the state’s biggest city. Spokane is Washington’s second-largest city and the center of the so-called Inland Northwest, a historic and geographic region that includes eastern Washington, northern Idaho, the northeast of Oregon, and western Montana. West Washington is separated by the Cascade Mountains and lives a completely different life — climatically, economically, and politically. That’s why the story of a Spokane native became statewide news and made it into Seattle-area media.

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Based on: WA’s Lucas Jumalon wins it all at World Series of Poker Main Event

Heat and wind could undo wildfire progress in Washington state

Firefighters in Washington have been able to contain wildfires that have burned hundreds of square miles — more than a thousand square kilometers — including a destructive complex near Spokane. However, forecasters warn that over the weekend the wind will pick up, temperatures will rise, and it could erase some of the gains made so far.

In the Spokane area, the state’s second-largest city, crews are continuing to fight three major fires — Old Trails, Fairview and Othello Lane. The most active, Othello Lane, as of Wednesday morning was contained at 13%; Old Trails was also 13%, while Fairview was contained at only 5%. On Wednesday afternoon, a new fire broke out to the west of Othello Lane, called Charles, and it quickly grew to about 2.4 hectares. There are homes nearby, so authorities first issued a mandatory evacuation within a one-mile radius (about 1.6 km), but the threat level was soon reduced to a recommendation to be ready to leave.

Washington uses a three-tier alert system. Level 1 (“be ready”) means the fire is close; residents are told to prepare documents, medications, belongings, an action plan and to monitor conditions. Level 2 (“be prepared”) is a recommendation to get ready to leave immediately: pack bags, fill up the car, keep animals nearby; evacuation may be voluntary or recommended. Level 3 (“leave now”) is a mandatory evacuation: the danger to life is real and immediate, and people must leave the area right away. At the first two levels, residents may stay if they feel safe, while Level 3 requires immediate departure. Formally, police and sheriffs do not force people out, but they warn that if residents refuse to evacuate, help may not arrive in time.

After all three fires ignited on Saturday, more than 60,000 people were forced to leave their homes; at least 700 structures have been destroyed. Some residents were able to return home as early as Tuesday, though evacuation orders remain in effect in some areas.

Gov. Bob Ferguson praised firefighters for establishing containment lines at all three fronts and called their work significant progress. Such statements are not just official reporting. Using the state’s emergency laws, the governor can formally declare a state of emergency, which allows him to deploy the National Guard, mobilize resources from the Department of Natural Resources and other agencies, release emergency funds from the budget, and request federal help from the president. His remarks both formally inform the public, help sustain the morale of volunteers and emergency workers, and signal to federal and local agencies that conditions are stabilizing, even though the situation still requires close monitoring.

But the weather is making it worse. In Eastern Washington, temperatures in the mid-to-high 90s Fahrenheit (up to 38°C) are possible Friday and Saturday, and humidity will drop. According to the National Weather Service, the chance of gusts over 20 mph (32 km/h) is 30–60%, while the chance of gusts over 30 mph (48 km/h) is 5%. Much of the heat and dryness can be explained by geography. The Cascade Mountains run north to south through the entire state and block moist air masses coming in from the Pacific Ocean. Ocean air cools and condenses on the western slopes, so the area west of the range, including Seattle, receives plenty of precipitation, with a mild, maritime climate. On the eastern side, the air sinks, becomes drier and warmer — a phenomenon known as a “rain shadow.” As a result, Eastern Washington gets far fewer summer rains, vegetation dries out, and wildfires start and spread far more easily than in the wetter western region.

In Central Washington, the largest fire, the Canyon Fire (Kaiser Canyon), which began July 16 after a lightning strike, had burned almost 214 square miles (about 550 sq km) by Wednesday morning and was 48% contained. More than 1,000 firefighters are battling it. With wind and heat expected Thursday and Friday to increase fire activity, especially along the foothills of the Cascades and in the Okanogan area, the odds of gusts over 30 mph (48 km/h) on Friday and Saturday there are expected to be 40–70%. The edges of the fire could flare up again.

The Murdite (Modrart?) Fire, also caused by lightning on July 17, had burned nearly 84 square miles (about 218 sq km) by Wednesday morning and was 53% contained. More moderate weather in recent days helped crews make good progress. While a shift to a southwesterly wind could change the direction of fire spread, experts do not currently see the same level of concerns about an escalation of that blaze as they do with other fires.

Farther north, in Okanogan County, the Sinlakhekin (Sinlahhekin) Fire reached 183 square miles (about 474 sq km) and was contained at just 9%. More than 1,500 firefighters are reinforcing and building containment lines, but hot, dry weather, critically dry vegetation, steep terrain and a growing atmosphere of instability threaten significant fire activity. The Little Giant Fire, about 35 km northwest of Leavenworth, has burned about 111 square miles (nearly 290 sq km) and is not contained at all so far: 255 people have been evacuated, and more than 1,800 structures are threatened. More than 1,500 specialists are involved in fighting it as well.

Smoke from the fires has made the air in Eastern and Central Washington harmful for breathing; it’s also possible similar pollution will reach Seattle. Although prevailing winds in the region generally blow from west to east, strong fires and changing conditions can create local flows that carry smoke over the Cascade passes. Large wildfires generate their own pyro-cumulus clouds and draw in air from multiple directions, so the smoke plume rises high and is then spread by winds over significant distances. To warn residents, authorities use the Washington Air Quality Advisory (WAQA), a special air-quality scale tailored to smoke from wildfires, as well as standard AQI indices. They issue air-quality alerts, recommend limiting time outdoors, closing windows and using air purifiers, and in especially dangerous situations they advise wearing N95 respirators. Information is distributed through local news, apps, social media and automated alerts to mobile phones. Friday and Saturday are expected to bring relief as air-flow patterns shift. But until then, firefighters remain on edge: even with gains already made, any new gust of wind could quickly turn the situation worse.

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Based on: Heat, wind threaten progress made against WA wildfires

Seattle library levy approved: 72% of voters

Seattle residents have strongly backed a new library levy worth $479 million: after the second day of counting, 72.4% of voters said yes to the measure. The levy is nearly double the current one, which expires at the end of the year, and will provide funding for the Seattle Public Library for the next seven years. For the typical homeowner, the cost will be about $193 per year—and, judging by the voting results, residents are willing to pay more in taxes to help preserve accessible library services.

The funds will be allocated to key areas: $229 million will go toward maintaining library hours, programs, and hiring additional security staff and specialists to help visitors access social services. Another $134 million will be used for ongoing and deferred repairs to buildings, cleaning, as well as seismic work and updates to branches. About $69 million will be directed to expanding physical and digital collections, while $38 million will support computer services, internet, and IT support. At the same time, the levy covers only a third of the library’s overall budget—not all of its expenses.

Notably, Mayor Jenny Durkan initially proposed a $410 million levy, but the City Council added nearly $60 million more to the package, including $10 million specifically for the Central Library. Now, after the measure’s approval, Seattle is moving close to the maximum level of property tax allowed under state law. That makes the levy’s win especially significant: the city has chosen libraries as a vital public resource.

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Based on: Seattle library levy passes with nearly 3 in 4 voters’ support

Washington challenges the Justice Department: 21st loss in voter list lawsuit

Hearings were held Tuesday in federal court in Seattle on a lawsuit by the U.S. Department of Justice against officials in the state of Washington. The department is seeking the unredacted voter lists, including driver’s license numbers and partial Social Security numbers. By this point, the Justice Department had already lost 20 similar cases around the country, and Judge Kimberly Evanson showed no signs of breaking that pattern.

Justice Department attorney Raymond Young conceded that the arguments he is making in Seattle have already been rejected by all other courts. He said they “misread” the federal government’s authority under civil rights law. Tera Heinz, representing Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs, replied that the courts correctly condemned the Justice Department’s “illegal attempts” to take control of voter data away from the states and called the request for confidential information “unprecedented and dangerous.” The requirement is especially sensitive because Washington has automatic voter registration: when a resident gets or updates a driver’s license at the Department of Licensing, their information is automatically sent to the registration system unless they opt out. The driver’s license number is used as a unique identifier to verify identity and link records across agencies—so it ends up on voter lists as a direct result of the state’s integration of its transportation and election systems.

The Justice Department filed suit against Hobbs in December, arguing that the federal government has “broad authority” to request data to verify whether ineligible people are being removed from voter rolls. Hobbs’s lawyers in May filed a motion to dismiss the case, calling the lawsuit an “unlawful demand,” and voter-rights organizations backed the state. Judge Evanson has not yet issued a ruling, but indicated she sees no grounds to grant the Justice Department’s request.

In Washington, nearly all elections are conducted by mail: every registered voter receives a ballot at their home address. If voter lists containing addresses and personal information become publicly accessible, it would allow bad actors to learn who is voting and where—and it would also create opportunities for interference, including intercepting or swapping ballots. Publishing such information can lead to pressure on voters or their intimidation. That is why the state imposes strict limits on access to voter lists and protects them as confidential information, and violating that protection is considered a serious offense.

This wave of lawsuits is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to create a nationwide voter list and sow doubts about election results. Trump continues, without evidence, to claim that the 2020 presidential election—one he lost—was tainted by widespread fraud. Federal courts rejected those arguments immediately after the election and are now similarly rejecting lawsuits seeking the transfer of election data. Last week, a court in Illinois ruled that the state is not required to turn over voter data—marking the Justice Department’s 19th straight loss. On Monday, a judge in Colorado delivered the 20th. Despite that, according to the Brennan Center, at least 16 Republican-led states have voluntarily handed their voter lists to the Justice Department. Judge Evanson said she will try to issue a written decision in the Washington case as soon as possible.

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Based on: WA lawyers seek to hand Trump administration 21st loss in voter roll lawsuits

«Тax on millionaires» didn’t become a political liability for Democrats

For decades in Washington state politics, there has been no more toxic subject than an income tax. The state still has no tax on personal income: back in 1933 the state Supreme Court, in Culliton v. Chase, ruled a progressive income tax unconstitutional, and the constitution requires a single tax rate, making a differentiated scale almost impossible. Later, taxpayers locked in an additional constraint through initiatives: any new taxes or increases in rates must receive a two-thirds vote in the legislature or be approved by a referendum. Instead, the budget is funded by a sales tax, a property tax, a business gross receipts tax, and excise taxes on fuel, alcohol, and tobacco— a system critics call regressive, because people with low incomes pay a disproportionately large share of their earnings in taxes. Attempts to change this model have failed: as early as the 1970s, the popular governor Dan Evans tried twice to introduce an income tax and lost both times resoundingly at the ballot box.

So when, this spring, the governing Democrats finally pushed through their own version— the “millionaires tax”—the key question was whether voters would recoil from them. Formally, it is not a classic income tax: the capital gains tax adopted in 2021 is charged at a 7% rate on net profit from the sale of stocks, bonds, and other financial assets above $250,000 per year. Real estate, retirement accounts, and several other categories are excluded, so only about 0.2% of state residents pay it. In 2023, the state Supreme Court ruled it constitutional, characterizing it as an excise tax on the right to possess an asset rather than an income tax that the state is barred from imposing. Revenues are directed to education programs and child care.

The answer, judging by the results of the August primaries, was a loud “no.” Democrats who backed the new tax and other tax increases are leading Republicans comfortably in the early vote counts. What’s more, it is the Republicans—who criticized the tax and what they called Democrats’ “waste”—who look most vulnerable. In the 17th and 18th districts in Vancouver, business groups spent about $450,000 defending four Republican state lawmakers, yet the new Democratic candidates lead in all of these races.

Republicans also targeted Democrats in the suburbs of Seattle— in the 47th district in Kent and the 44th district in Snohomish County. All these Democrats voted for the capital gains tax, and all of them are leading. One of the tax’s authors, state representative April Berg, is ahead of her opponent by 22 points, and the bill’s chief sponsor, Senator Jamie Pedersen, is ahead by more than 40. Even in the 5th district, where Republican Michelle Bennett made “control Olympia” her slogan and criticized the tax, two Democrats together are still up by 11 points. Here it’s worth remembering the local “top-two” system introduced by I-872 in 2008: all candidates, regardless of party, compete in a single August election, and only the two candidates with the most votes advance to the November ballot. In deeply Democratic districts, that means the finalists could well be two Democrats— and then party affiliation stops being the main factor for voters.

Criticism of Democrats simply isn’t landing. This summer former Democratic governors Christine Gregoire and Gary Locke said their party has “gotten out of control” on spending and taxes. Businessman Howard Schultz, who moved to Florida, also accused the party of being unfriendly to business. But voters—the real bosses—aren’t demanding “control” over Democrats.

There are two explanations. First: what Democrats are doing is popular. People want to tax the wealthy and don’t view higher government spending as a problem. That doesn’t mean voters will necessarily approve the “millionaires tax” itself in November’s referendum, but the party’s overall approach is something they like for now.

Second: the all-encompassing influence of Donald Trump. He has so damaged the brand of local Republicans that they can’t even carry their arguments against Democrats. A fresh poll shows Trump’s job approval in the state is only 27%, with 68% disapproving— a 41-point difference. No party is going to sail against that wind.

At the federal level, all eight Democrats in Congress from the state feel confident, including Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, who was viewed as one of the most vulnerable. In her district, where Trump won in 2024, Democrats are at 56%, while Republican John Brown and allies are at only 42%. The numbers will still shift as votes are counted, but the trend of the whole Trump era remains: rejection of him makes a blue state only bluer.

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Based on: WA Democrats face no backlash for ‘millionaires tax’

Battle for Washington’s 3rd District: Gluesenkamp Perez and Brown Face Off in November

In the top two primaries for Washington state’s 3rd Congressional District, two main contenders have emerged: incumbent Democratic U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and Republican John Braun, the minority leader in the state senate. Preliminary results show both candidates at nearly 39% of the vote, and the Associated Press has already called their primary races for them. Washington uses a “top-2” system: there are no separate party primaries. Instead, all candidates run in a single pool, and only the two who receive the most votes advance to the November ballot. Because both Perez and Braun finished first and second, both are technically winners of the primary—and now voters must make the final choice between them.

The race is shaping up to be one of the most intense in the country. National Democrats are hoping to take control of the House from Republicans, while Republicans see Braun as one of their best bets to flip the seat. The Cook Political Report rates the 3rd District as one of just 18 “swing” districts in the U.S. with no clear favorite. It is already clear that millions of dollars from outside groups are likely to flood into the campaign in the coming months.

Gluesenkamp Perez said the results show voters are tired of partisan infighting and want attention to working-class concerns. She immediately went on the offensive against Braun, calling him a Donald Trump figure. “Brown sold his reputation for Trump’s support and will work for Trump,” she said, adding that voting for the president is not the same as wanting to ride along with him. In response, Braun said most voters “rejected the incumbent congresswoman” and promised to work with anyone, if it helps the southwestern Washington region.

Political scientists say the primary results send both good and troubling signals for Gluesenkamp Perez. On the one hand, left-leaning Democrat Brent Hennrich’s 15% shows dissatisfaction within her progressive wing with her more moderate positions. On the other hand, Democrats combined to win about 54% of the vote, and some of Hennrich’s voters in November will likely back Perez, said political science professor Ben Gaskins.

It is also notable that the situation differs from 2024, when Gluesenkamp Perez led the primary comfortably with 47% and Republican Joe Kent won 38%. At the time, Republicans together captured roughly half the vote, yet Perez still won in November. Now Braun—an established political figure—still cannot reach 40%, even as Democratic votes were divided. According to Gaskins, that is not the best sign for Republicans.

The 3rd District is a true “swing” seat. In the west, it borders the Pacific Ocean; in the south, it borders Oregon. It includes both rural areas and suburbs. It is called “swing” not because of presidential elections, but because of Congressional elections—where results can shift between parties, even though Trump has won here, and by a small margin. In local races, voters are more likely to focus on individual candidates rather than the party label. Vancouver—Portland’s suburb across the Columbia River—plays a particularly important role. Its more moderate residents can mark a Republican on their presidential ballot in the same election, while choosing a more moderate Democrat or an independent candidate for Congress. That helps keep the district competitive, despite a “red” presidential result.

Over the three years she has been in Congress, Gluesenkamp Perez has become a prominent figure on the national stage. She appears frequently on television, votes against her party’s line, and does not hesitate to criticize Democrats for being disconnected from the working class. This year, she backed funding for the Department of Homeland Security despite opposition from her fellow party members. She also voted for a $1.15 trillion defense budget, saying it serves the interests of the military and domestic production.

At the same time, she remains pro-access to abortion and openly argues for comprehensive reproductive health support. But her signature issue has been a right to repair. As the owner of an auto repair shop, Perez is pushing to ensure that car and electronics manufacturers provide independent repair shops and everyday owners access to parts, tools, diagnostic software, and technical documentation—not just through their authorized dealers. Modern vehicles are “computers on wheels,” and if a manufacturer hides diagnostics or restricts access to parts, small repair shops cannot operate. For Washington, this issue is especially important because of the proximity to technology corporations and the state’s push toward open access to data. According to federal filings, Perez has raised nearly $6.5 million for her campaign.

John Braun is a very different kind of figure than his predecessor, the Republican lawmaker. He has worked in the state legislature for more than a decade and represents one of the most reliable Republican districts. As minority leader in the state senate, he is known for fiscal conservatism: he opposes new taxes and takes an active role in shaping the state budget. That message lands especially sharply in Washington, where there is no state income tax on individuals. The budget is funded mostly through sales tax, business taxes, and property taxes. Such a system is sensitive to the state of the economy and places the burden first and foremost on consumers, so every conversation about money quickly becomes an argument about who is effectively being asked to pay—buyers, businesses, or whether the state should introduce new, unfamiliar taxes such as a capital gains tax. In this context, budget conservatism is not an abstract idea but a specific stance on how Washington’s entire tax system works.

Braun is a Navy veteran and president of a company that manufactures equipment for emergency services. In his campaign, he emphasizes cutting costs, protecting borders, and growing manufacturing. In April, he received support from Donald Trump. Unlike Joe Kent—whose campaigns were mired in conspiracy theories and false claims about the 2020 election—Braun appears more moderate and could appeal to a broader range of voters. He also brings years of legislative experience and established political ties that Perez’s previous opponents did not have. Still, he has less money so far—about $2 million. But as long-time pollster Stewart Elway, an independent sociologist based in Seattle and founder of Elway Research, puts it, voters should expect another very close race: “That’s been the case in the last three or four elections.” His polls are not commissioned by candidates or parties and rely on long-term measurements of voter sentiment, so his numbers are treated as an objective benchmark for analyzing elections in Washington.

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Based on: Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, John Braun advancing in Washington’s 3rd District

Washington state Supreme Court primaries: a decisive November ahead

Tuesday’s primaries saw incumbent judges pull ahead in three of the four races for seats on the Washington State Supreme Court. A major campaign is now set for November, which could refresh up to five of the court’s nine seats. Usually, elections feature only three positions, but this year the ballot includes five seats—because of recent retirements and one judge’s decision not to seek re-election, as well as another judge reaching the mandatory retirement age.

This election cycle is unique: all five seats are contested, and the two open seats without incumbent judges will be competitive—something that hasn’t happened in the past 15 years. These elections could change the direction of a court that in recent years has often acted more decisively than the state legislature. It has struck down the death penalty and the state’s drug possession law, and it has also revised court rules to combat racial bias. In addition, the court is expected to consider a challenge to a new tax on high earners—one that could uphold, sidestep, or overturn one of the most important precedents in the state’s legal history, the 1933 decision that banned an income tax.

Washington uses not traditional party primaries, but a “top-two” system: all candidates, regardless of party, compete in a single primary, and voters choose any candidate; only the top two vote-getters advance to the November ballot—even if both belong to the same party. In that system, party organizations are not allowed to officially “nominate” a candidate—the outcome is determined by voters. The 1933 ruling at the center of this debate is based on the state constitution’s requirement for uniform taxation: the tax rate must be the same for all taxpayers, which effectively barred a progressive income tax and left Washington as one of the few U.S. states without a personal income tax. The new tax on high earners—such as the 2021 capital gains tax—technically is not structured as an “income tax,” but as an excise tax on the realization of profit, allowing it to get around the restriction. In 2023, the court already ruled that such a tax is constitutional; however, a full-blown progressive income tax on the wealthy would require either a direct reconsideration of the 1933 precedent or an amendment to the state constitution.

In the race for the only open seat that appeared on the primary ballot, Mason County Superior Court judge David Stevens leads with 36% of the vote; he is backed by the Washington State Council of Police and Sheriffs. Second is King County Superior Court judge Jamie Hook with 33%, supported by Gov. Bob Ferguson and Rep. Pramila Jayapal. Third is Court of Appeals judge Mike Dias with 31%. A former civil rights attorney, Dias is backed by Attorney General Nick Brown and former Gov. Jay Inslee. Preliminary results indicate that Stevens and Hook are the ones expected to advance to the November ballot.

The gap in support between Stevens and Hook also reflects the political split between the areas they represent. King County is the core of the Seattle metro area, home to technology companies, universities, and a diverse, highly educated population that overwhelmingly votes for Democrats. Mason County is a rural and suburban area in the west of the state, reliant on logging, manufacturing, and a naval base, with a higher share of white working-class residents and more conservative leanings. This is a nationwide pattern: cities tend to favor progressive left politics, while smaller and rural counties trend conservative. At the same time, King County contains nearly a third of the state’s population, so its dominance makes Washington overall “blue,” even though most counties vote against Seattle.

The second open seat, which only two candidates are seeking—Court of Appeals judge Ian Birch and King County Superior Court judge Sean O’Donnell—was not on the primary ballot, so they will face off in November instead. It’s worth noting that judges are elected to six-year terms, but most of the court’s current members—six of the nine—were initially appointed by the governor to fill vacancies.

Two recent appointees of Gov. Ferguson are also leading in their races. Collin Melody, who previously headed the civil rights division in the attorney general’s office and was appointed late last year to replace the retiring Mary Yu, received 51%, finishing ahead of tax attorney Scott Edwards, who had 30%, and Laura Kuhberg, who is currently serving as judge pro tempore of Snohomish County Superior Court, with 18%. Teo Angelis, an intellectual property specialist appointed this year after Barbara Madsen retired, received 34%. Just about tied with him is former Federal Way Municipal Court judge Dave Larson with 33%, followed by Sharronda Amamilo with 21% and Greg Miller with 12%.

Chief Justice Debra Stephens is the only incumbent judge on these elections who earned her seat through election rather than gubernatorial appointment, and she is leading the race for re-election with 55% of the vote. She has held the position since 2008 and has a significant fundraising advantage over her three challengers—none of whom have served as a judge: Navy veteran and tax attorney Todd Bloom at 28%, former public defender Karim Murchan at 11%, and David Shelvey at 7%, who runs a family-law practice in Sumner.

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Based on: WA Supreme Court elections make for momentous primary

Washington 2026 primaries: the fight for a supermajority

After early vote counts in Tuesday’s Washington state primaries, a new political map is coming into focus: in November, voters will decide whether Democrats can keep control of the legislature—and how far they can push their agenda. All 98 seats in the state House and 24 of the 49 seats in the state Senate are up for election. To win a supermajority, Democrats need seven more seats in the lower chamber and three more in the upper chamber—enough to amend the state constitution without Republican support and to strengthen their influence on issues such as redistricting. Republicans, meanwhile, are trying to hold their ground in a midterm campaign that has not been favorable to them.

In Washington’s primaries, a “top-2” system determines the November general election field: the two candidates who receive the most votes advance, regardless of party. It was introduced by Initiative I-872 in 2008, replacing party primaries. Parties lost official control over candidate nominations, while candidates only indicate a preferred party. As a result, November races can feature two Democrats running against each other. That weakens party apparatuses and forces candidates to seek support from a broad range of voters, not just their own party members.

Ballot counting will continue for several more days, so results could still change. In Washington, elections are entirely conducted by mail: every registered voter receives a ballot about two weeks before Election Day. Voters can drop it into an official ballot drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day, or mail it—so long as the postmark is no later than Election Day. Election offices begin processing early, but each envelope must be verified for signature authenticity, then opened and the ballot scanned. In addition, ballots mailed on time arrive after Election Day, meaning final results are released over the next few days rather than on the night of the election.

In a number of districts long considered Republican-leaning, Democrats have unexpectedly pulled in enough votes to keep the fight going. In other contests, voters will choose between two Democrats, deciding which direction of progressive policy they like more. The district numbers involved are administrative identifiers: Washington has 49 legislative districts, and each elects one state senator and two state representatives. District lines are redrawn every 10 years by an independent redistricting commission, and they often cut across city and even county boundaries.

In the 43rd district, which includes Seattle’s Capitol Hill and the Eastlake neighborhood, the Senate Democratic majority leader, Jamie Pedersen, is cruising: after the first count, he has 71% of the vote. His opponent, Hanna Sabuio-Howell, a political newcomer, has 18%, and independent candidate Heather-Marie Wilson, running from a more conservative position, has 11%. Pedersen has pushed progressive initiatives for two decades—high-income taxes, a ban on assault weapons, and stronger tenant protections. Sabuio-Howell is critical of him and of the Democratic Party for moving too slowly on these issues, and she is proposing even higher taxes on the wealthy, expanding universal childcare, and increasing the supply of housing.

In the 46th district (northeast Seattle, Lake Forest Park, and Kenmore), one of the hottest—and most expensive—races of the year is underway. Incumbent Rep. Jerry Pollet is leading with 54%, and newcomer Will Dreer is at 31%; the third candidate, Ron Paul Davis, trails at 14%. Pollet has served in the Legislature since 2011, works on funding for schools and colleges, and sponsored passage of a high-income tax. Dreer, a lawyer who served as a juror in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot trials, is betting on regulating artificial intelligence and the technology industry. Davis, a former tech entrepreneur and political consultant, supports expanding housing, investing in transportation, and fully funding public schools.

In the 32nd district (Shoreline, Woodway, parts of Edmonds, and northwest Seattle), one of the most consequential races for a Senate seat, two sitting Democrats will meet in November. Incumbent Sen. Jess Salomon has 39% of the vote, while Cindy Ryu—who represents the same district in the House—has 41%. Both take progressive positions and support a “millionaires’ tax” and rent growth limits, but voters will be choosing between different styles of governing: Ryu calls herself the more progressive of the two, while Salomon describes himself as a “practical progressive.” The only Republican in the race, Ira McBhe, has 20%.

Another Democratic-to-Democratic contest is in the 29th district, which includes eastern Tacoma, Parkland, Spanaway, and the surrounding area of Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM)—the large U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force base created from Fort Lewis and McChord Air Force Base. Tens of thousands of service members, civilian employees, and family members work and live there, and part of the base lies within the district. For local voters, base funding, housing for service members, healthcare, support for veterans, and employment opportunities for military spouses are especially important—so candidates have to talk aggressively about defense and military budgets. Early indications show incumbent Rep. Melanie Morgan and newcomer Cresta Perez are nearly tied: Morgan at 47.18% and Perez at 47.23%. Morgan has served in the Legislature since 2019 and focuses on housing, veterans’ issues, racial equity, and criminal justice reform. But her vote against the high-income tax could cost her a seat: Perez supports that tax and promises to expand access to childcare through the Working Connections Child Care program, as well as strengthen protections for workers.

In the 26th district—one of the state’s few true “swing” areas, covering southeast Kitsap County and the Gig Harbor area—the contest is for an open House seat held for more than a decade by Republican Michelle Valdes. After the first count, Republican Katie Cornell leads with 44%, followed by Democrat Rene Hernandez Greenfield at 40%; Democrat Tedd Weatherby is at 13%, and independent Randy Phillips at 2%. Hernandez Greenfield emphasizes affordable childcare, climate resilience, and respecting tribal sovereignty through consultations with tribal governments. Cornell promises lower taxes, less regulation for small business, and mandatory treatment for repeat offenders.

In the 17th district in eastern Vancouver and the southwest of Clark County, along the Oregon border, Democrats are close to taking both House seats away from Republicans. For the first seat, incumbent Republican Kevin Waters has 44% and Democrat Ben Christle has 53%; another 3% goes to liberal Thomas Haynes, who supports gun rights. For the second seat, incumbent Republican David Stueb has 45%, while his Democratic challenger Diana Perez has 55%. If that trend holds, in November Republicans will have to defend a district they’re used to winning without much effort.

So the first primary results suggest Democrats have a strong chance to expand their majority in the Washington State Legislature. In several districts, the outcome will be decided in November between candidates from the same party with different views on what progressive policy should look like. Final results will come after all ballots are counted, but it’s already clear that the fall campaign will shape not only the balance of power in Olympia, but also the state’s ideological direction for years to come.

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Based on: WA Senate majority leader sailing through in 2026 primary

Seattle: baseball trades and wildfire smoke

In the roundup: the Seattle Mariners made a move at the deadline—trading for Taylor Ward and Serántoni Domínguez, releasing veterans, and bringing back Brendan Donovan. And over the city itself, smoke from wildfires is moving in, worsening air quality.

The Mariners bet on Ward: how the deadline reshaped Seattle’s lineup

On the day of the MLB trade deadline, the Seattle Mariners finally closed their biggest area of concern. The Washington club traded right-handed outfielder Taylor Ward to the Baltimore Orioles as part of a four-player deal. As The Seattle Times reports, it was the biggest move the team made in the final hours before the trade window closed—an unmistakable signal of intent to fight for a spot in the postseason. At the same time, the Mariners kept Randy Arozarena, who could have left this winter as a free agent, and they did not part with either George Kirby or Emerson Hancock, even though other teams have shown interest in those starting pitchers.

Ward is a figure familiar to Angels fans and, more broadly, to viewers of the West Division of the American League, because the first eight years of his career were spent in Los Angeles. Last winter, he was traded from the Angels to Baltimore for pitcher Grayson Rodriguez. A fun detail: in 2015, the Angels drafted Ward in the first round, when the club’s general manager was the current president of the Mariners, Jerry Dipoto. Now they’ve reunited in Seattle, and the veteran is expected to help the team at the season’s crucial stage. Ward is 32, and after this season he will become a free agent—so this is essentially a short-term rental aimed at this year’s championship run.

Ward’s numbers this season look mixed when you look at them in isolation. In 506 plate appearances for the Orioles, he posted a modest .246 with seven home runs and 20 doubles, while his OPS was .730. His power has indeed dipped—his slugging percentage (.346) is a career low for a full season. But his OBP (.383) is a career best, and his 87 walks—i.e., times he reaches base via a walk—are tops in the American League. For those not deep in baseball stats, here’s what that means: OBP shows how often a player reaches base while accounting for hits, walks, and being hit by pitches. OPS combines OBP with extra-base production. A high OBP paired with low slugging suggests Ward has become a patient, disciplined hitter who rarely swings and misses at bad pitches and keeps putting pressure on opposing pitchers.

What matters more: all season, the Mariners have been one of the league’s worst offenses against left-handed pitchers. Ward is a right-handed hitter, and his numbers versus lefties look strong: .269/.413/.426, for an .839 OPS. For comparison, against right-handers his line is noticeably more modest—.238/.372/.318 and .690 OPS. That is the exact profile Seattle has been looking for, as they’ve long tried to balance their lineup. It’s logical to assume Ward will be used alongside other outfielders and also in a right-field “shortstop”-type role defensively, though with Baltimore he primarily played left field. He can also bat as a designated hitter.

The other side of the trade is parting with three players who likely weren’t close to making the everyday lineup: reliever Alex Hopp and two minor-league pitchers, Brock Moore and Harrison Kreiling. The price looks reasonable for a seasoned rental outfielder. In Seattle, they apparently believe the current roster is already strong enough—and Ward will be the final piece of the puzzle. In addition, the Mariners already made one trade on Saturday, acquiring veteran reliever Serántoni Domínguez from the Chicago White Sox in exchange for Luis Castillo. That was their only other deal during the entire summer window. Domínguez and Ward are expected to be ready by the start of the series against the Detroit Tigers on Tuesday.

However, not all plans came together. The Mariners couldn’t pull off a second trade at the deadline to strengthen the bullpen, even though talks with various teams ran until the window closed at 3:00 p.m. Eastern. This is the second year in a row the club has been unable to fulfill one of its biggest priorities—to acquire a trusted late-inning reliever for high-leverage situations. Domínguez, of course, helps the bullpen, but the depth of the bullpen…

Seattle says goodbye to veterans: Mariners continue roster rebuilding

On the night of Tuesday, the Seattle Mariners announced a series of roster moves that make one thing clear: the team is betting on fresh faces and young players in the fight for a postseason spot. The club officially released veterans—catcher Mitch Garver and outfielder Rob Refsnyder—whose performances this season have fallen short of expectations. These decisions are part of a larger roster rotation tied to the trade deadline and the return of key players to health.

Garver, who is already 35, signed a minor-league contract with the Mariners back in February and appeared in 50 games. During that time, he hit just .175, with four home runs and 15 RBI. For a catcher who was still seen not long ago as one of the league’s most reliable backup options, those numbers were a real letdown. His spot as the backup to starting catcher Cal Raleigh went to 30-year-old Johnny Paredes, called up from the Tacoma farm system. Paredes is already familiar with the big club: in 19 games this season he is hitting .270 with two home runs and four RBI—far more convincing than the veteran who is fading.

Refsnider’s story in Seattle ended even more painfully. After signing a one-year deal in December, he was expected to be a useful role player, but in 53 games his average stalled at .140—with four home runs and 11 RBI. In addition, from late June through late July he was on the injured list with inflammation in his right knee, which finally undermined his position on the team. Now both veterans will hit the free-agent market, where they likely won’t be able to count on guaranteed contracts, but may still get a chance to finish out the season somewhere.

Much better news for fans is the return of Brendan Donovan. The utility player, who made the 2025 All-Star Game roster, was activated from the 10-day injured list. He hadn’t played since May 15 due to a left groin strain. In the 25 games before the injury, Donovan hit .274 with three home runs, four doubles, and eight RBI. His return significantly strengthens the depth, since he can cover multiple infield and outfield positions.

Also addressed ahead of the deadline were the acquisitions. Serántoni Domínguez (a right-handed pitcher) and Taylor Ward (an outfielder) whom the Mariners traded for before Monday’s deadline are already on the active roster and took the field against the Detroit Tigers. Ward, 32, debuted for his new club by batting eighth in the starting order. His numbers this season for the Baltimore Orioles look solid: in 111 games he is hitting .246, with 20 doubles, seven home runs, 30 RBI, and—most impressively—leading the American League with 87 walks. That approach to pitch selection makes him an ideal top-of-the-lineup contributor, capable of constantly creating pressure for opposing pitchers.

Domínguez, meanwhile, is brought in to strengthen the bullpen. In 43 games this season, his ERA is 3.99, and his record is 4–3. This isn’t an elite closer, but he is a dependable innings-eater who should take some burden off the rest of the relievers late in the season. For these two players, Seattle sent prospects Alex Hopp, Brock Moore, and Harrison Kreiling (right-handed pitchers), and it also released outfielder Stuart Fairchild, who was placed on waivers.

In summary, the Mariners are acting decisively and pragmatically. They aren’t afraid to admit mistakes in signings, and they have no hesitation moving on from those who haven’t lived up to expectations. Donovan’s return and the arrival of Ward and Domínguez substantially refresh the roster right in the middle of the fight for the postseason. ESPN’s official site ESPN notes that there were seven roster moves in one day, underscoring how active management has been. If the new core performs as planned, Seattle could deliver a surprise in the fall portion of the season. As for veterans like Garver and Refsnyder, the only thing left is to look for new opportunities—because in modern baseball, age and past accomplishments quickly give way to statistics and fresh energy.

Wildfire smoke blankets Seattle and Portland: what’s happening and why it’s dangerous

The U.S. West Coast is once again in the grip of nature: smoke from dozens of major wildfires burning in eastern Oregon and Washington is moving toward the region’s largest cities. As The Weather Channel reports, in the coming days residents of Seattle, Portland, Tacoma, and Olympia will have to breathe air that experts call unhealthy. The cause isn’t just isolated fires, but a whole complex of blazes that has engulfed a significant portion of the Pacific Northwest: three major fire sites are burning right near Spokane, where the flames have already destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses, and about thirty other major fires are burning in central and eastern Oregon. Fires are also occurring in Idaho, Montana, and Utah, so the situation is truly widespread.

The main reason the smoke will land specifically over Seattle and Portland is an unusual wind direction for summer. Typically, westerly winds blow in from the Pacific Ocean, bringing cleaner ocean air to coastal areas. But right now, an east-to-northeast flow has set in, pushing smoke from the burning east directly westward, toward Interstate 5—the main transportation artery connecting the biggest cities in the Northwest. As a result, the entire corridor from Seattle through Tacoma and Olympia, as well as Oregon’s Willamette Valley—where Portland, Salem, Corvallis, and Eugene are located—will be under a smoke veil for at least until Wednesday. In Boise, the capital of Idaho, the smoke will stay near ground level, and some air streams may even reach Salt Lake City. By Thursday, the westerly winds should return, and the smoke will start moving back east, crossing the Rocky Mountains and by the end of the week blanketing popular tourist destinations such as Yellowstone and Aspen.

Smoke is compounded by another problem—abnormally hot weather. The same weather pattern that has brought smoke to the coast is acting like a heat pump: west of the Cascades, the air is heating up to unusually high values. In Seattle, temperatures could approach 30°C, in Portland 36–37°C, and in some areas from Portland to Eugene, temperatures may hit 38°C or higher. There’s a caveat, though: if the smoke is dense enough, it will intercept some of the sunlight and slightly lower temperatures, as has already happened earlier in the week. In any case, these figures are close to daily record highs for a number of cities, including Seattle, Eugene, and Medford.

Unfortunately, there’s little good news. Summer is the dry season in the Pacific Northwest, so there’s no reason to count on prolonged rains that could help put out the fires. The only relief is a gradual cool-down over the weekend. Next week, however, meteorologists expect monsoon thunderstorms to push far north, all the way to the northern Rockies. That’s a double-edged sword: rain is badly needed right now, but if it falls over areas that have recently burned, even a small downpour can trigger dangerous flash floods and mudslides. What’s more, in some places the storms may bring only lightning and strong winds—not moisture—which is a direct path to new fires.

Safety is another issue that deserves special attention. Wildfire smoke isn’t just an unpleasant smell—it’s a serious health threat. It contains enormous numbers of tiny solid particles, dozens of times thinner than a human hair. Such particles can easily penetrate deep into the lungs and then enter the bloodstream. Even with short exposure, it can cause coughing, shortness of breath, throat irritation, a runny nose, and burning or stinging eyes. With prolonged inhalation of dense smoke, the risk of chronic lung disease increases, and the inflammatory load on the body rises, increasing the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes. That’s why meteorologists strongly advise people to check the air quality index before going outside. Its scale ranges from green, meaning good conditions, to maroon, which is considered dangerous for everyone. If the level reaches at least orange, people with respiratory or heart conditions, older adults, children, and pregnant women should avoid spending extended periods outdoors. At red, purple, or maroon levels, limiting time outside is recommended for everyone without exception: workouts should be moved indoors, and dog walking should be kept to a minimum.

The situation remains dynamic, and residents of the U.S. Northwest should keep a close eye on forecasts. Smoke isn’t just a temporary inconvenience—it’s a real risk factor, especially in combination with the heat. Nature is reminding people of its presence in a harsher way, and this fire season, judging by current signs, is far from over.

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Spokane-area wildfires: thousands evacuated, hundreds of buildings damaged

Three wildfires burn on the outskirts of Spokane — the second-largest city in Washington state — after they surged over the weekend. Hundreds of structures have been damaged, and tens of thousands of people have been forced to leave their homes. As of Monday morning, all three fires — Old Trails, Autumn Lane, and Fairview, known together as the Spokane fire complex — had 0% containment.

The scale of the disaster is enormous: more than 60,000 people have been ordered to evacuate immediately, and about 700 buildings, including homes and outbuildings, have been damaged. Thousands of people are without power, and officials have issued the city’s highest evacuation level, “Go Now!” for the northern parts of Spokane. At this time, there have been no confirmed deaths or injuries, but officials are already calling the blaze likely the most destructive disaster in Spokane’s history.

The fires began on Saturday in the vegetation and, within minutes, became an inferno due to strong winds. Two of them crossed the Spokane River and, within hours, swept through suburban neighborhoods, leaving a trail of devastation behind. The cause of the fires is under investigation, but according to the incident coordination center, the source of the flames is “human.” That doesn’t necessarily mean arson, only that the fire was not caused by lightning. Weather was hot, dry, and windy — conditions meteorologists described as an “especially dangerous situation.”

The fires are massive: Old Trails has grown to 3,619 acres, Autumn Lane to 3,351 acres, and Fairview to 1,056 acres. By Sunday evening, firefighters had stopped the advance of Old Trails, but the battle continues. About 900 firefighters from across the country are fighting the flames, using airplanes and helicopters to drop water and fire-retardant chemicals. FEMA has provided funding for the firefighting effort, and the governor has requested additional help — food, housing, and search-and-rescue teams. Smoke from the fires is expected to reach the Seattle area from Tuesday through Thursday, worsening air quality. Although Seattle is separated from Spokane by the Cascade Mountains, that doesn’t guarantee protection: in Washington, winds usually blow from west to east, pushing smoke away from Seattle, but under certain conditions — such as easterly winds — smoke can cross the range through passes such as Snoqualmie or be carried at high altitude and then sink into the lowlands. The Cascades are not a solid wall, so smoke particles can also get around from the north or south and spread under the influence of atmospheric circulation.

On Monday, the main effort is focused on the Autumn Lane fire, which continues spreading east and southeast, threatening new structures in rough terrain and residential areas. The Fairview and Old Trails fires are likely not to grow further, but smoldering continues there, and firefighters will still have to extinguish individual hot spots. Major surges in fire spread have slowed thanks to more favorable weather, but warmer, drier conditions are expected to return later in the week. “It’s going to be a dynamic couple of days,” experts say.

This is the fourth consecutive year of serious drought in Washington, which has created ideal conditions for fires by drying out grass, shrubs, and trees. Across the state, at least a dozen other fires are burning as well, many of which expanded significantly over the weekend. Scientists have repeatedly warned that destructive wildfires like these will occur more often: as winters warm, rain is increasingly replacing snow, and in summer — when moisture is most needed — precipitation becomes dangerously scarce. Snowpack in the mountains acts as a natural reservoir, slowly feeding rivers and moistening soil in spring and summer; when snow is low, it melts earlier and faster, leaving land and vegetation dry by mid-summer, with grass and shrubs becoming easy to ignite. That extends the fire season and makes wildfires more intense, because more dry vegetation accumulates.

Spokane is in eastern Washington, a region that is traditionally more prone to wildfires than the west, where Seattle is located. Western Washington receives a lot of moisture from the Pacific Ocean, so the climate is mild and wet, and dense forests are less likely to dry out. The Cascade Mountains block clouds, creating a “rain shadow”: to the east of the range, precipitation is dramatically lower. The east is semi-arid grasslands and open forest areas with dry grasses and shrubs that dry quickly in summer and are easy to catch from lightning or human activity. That’s why eastern Washington is more fire-prone — and the current fires around Spokane are a vivid confirmation.

There are several ways to help those affected. The city of Spokane has opened the H.O.M.E. Starts Here Fund to accept donations, activating it specifically to support wildfire victims. Fundraising is also being carried out by nonprofit organizations, including Innovia Foundation’s Fire Response Fund and the American Red Cross. Additional ways to help are available at st.news/spokanehelp.

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Based on: What we know about the Spokane wildfires on Monday

Primaries in Washington: How to Vote and What to Know

Today is primary election day in the state of Washington. Voters will determine who advances to the general election on November 3, as well as decide local ballot measures. Under state rules, the top two candidates who receive the most votes move forward—even if they are from the same party.

Washington is one of the pioneers of vote-by-mail in the United States. Many counties in the state have used that format for years, and in 2011 lawmakers required all counties to conduct elections entirely by mail; the system was fully in place beginning with the 2012 elections. This approach has become the norm because it is convenient for residents, helps boost turnout, reduces costs, and is accessible. Every registered voter automatically receives a ballot about two weeks before Election Day. Voters can mail it back through the regular postal service—most counties include an already postage-paid return envelope—but for those for whom mail is inconvenient, such as people who are traveling, have disabilities, or worry about delays, alternatives are available: official secure drop boxes, voting centers where you can return your ballot in person, and special voting machines for people with disabilities. For a ballot to be counted, it must be postmarked no later than August 4 or dropped into an official ballot box by 8:00 p.m. that day. Officials advise against waiting until the last moment to rely on the mail—dropping your ballot in person at the box is safer.

If you aren’t registered yet, you can register in person on Election Day. In King County, voting centers are open from 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.—for example at Bellevue College, at the City Hall in Kenmore, at the Lumen Field Event Center, or at the King County Elections office. King County is an administrative unit in the state that includes Seattle and dozens of other cities and towns: Bellevue, Redmond, Renton, and Kent. It is the most populous county in Washington: about 2.3 million residents, or roughly one-third of the entire state’s population. With so many voters, the county effectively helps determine statewide outcomes—from governor and state legislators to referendums—and has a major influence on how the United States president is chosen. Politically, it is a stronghold of Democrats. In addition, the county government provides regional services that affect everyone in the Seattle area: public transportation (King County Metro buses), public health, roads and bridges, parks, courts, jails, and emergency services. So, “Seattle politics” is, in practice, largely King County politics. Voting centers also offer audio ballots, large print, and assistive tools, as well as materials in Chinese, Korean, Russian, Somali, Spanish, and Vietnamese.

After you submit your ballot, you can track its status online at voter.votewa.gov. If you lose your ballot, don’t worry: you can vote in person or print a replacement. Replacement-printing instructions are available on the King County website, and residents of other counties can contact their county elections office.

This year, more than 600 offices are up for election in Washington. That includes all 10 U.S. House seats—including the districts represented by Pramila Jayapal and Adam Smith—as well as numerous seats in the Washington State Legislature. Voters will also select five of the nine justices on the Washington State Supreme Court, members of the King County Council, and one member of the Seattle City Council. Washington is among U.S. states where judges are chosen in elections rather than appointed. The tradition dates back to the 19th century and the era of “Jacksonian democracy,” when people in the western United States believed judges should be accountable to the public—not appointed by governors or lawmakers. The nine justices of the state Supreme Court serve six-year terms and are elected in nonpartisan elections: candidates are placed on the ballot without party labels. That aligns with Washington’s nonpartisan primary system. If more than two candidates run for a seat, a “top-two” primary takes place in August, with all candidates on a single ballot; then only the two who receive the most votes advance to the November general election. If there are only two candidates, they go directly to November. In this way, the system stays nonpartisan at every stage. At the same time, elected judges still have to raise campaign funds, run campaigns, and defend their decisions to voters: critics see this as a threat to judicial independence, while supporters argue that elections make the judiciary more democratic and transparent.

Separately, voters are asked to weigh in on Prop. 1, a property tax— a seven-year measure raising $480 million to fund Seattle’s public libraries. Supporters say the money is needed to repair libraries and expand their services. Opponents argue it is an additional burden on residents and would make the city less accessible.

For detailed information about candidates at the national, county, and city levels, see The Seattle Times voter guide. It includes information on all candidates to help you make an informed choice before polls close.

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Based on: It’s primary Election Day in WA. Here’s what to know

Trump Approves Federal Aid for Fire Damage in Spokane

President Donald Trump signed a declaration of a state of emergency for Washington state, allowing the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to coordinate all federal support measures related to destructive wildfires in the Spokane area. The agency said this on Tuesday. The decision means federal resources can now be mobilized to help mitigate the effects of the disaster and to support local authorities and residents.

The funds allocated will go toward financing evacuations, staffing emergency shelters, providing people with food and water, as well as search-and-rescue operations, confirmed Governor Bob Ferguson. Under the declaration, the federal government will cover 75% of the eligible costs. The assistance applies to Chelan, Ferry, Okanogan, Spokane, Stevens, and Yakima counties, as well as to a number of tribal communities, including the Confederated Tribes of the Yakama Nation, the Colville, and the Spokane Indians. The tribes are listed separately not by coincidence: federally recognized Native American tribes are sovereign nations, and their relationship with the federal government is based on a “government-to-government” principle. Therefore, they can receive assistance directly from FEMA rather than through a county or the state, and during recovery they can expect special consultations that take into account traditional practices and local territorial conditions. However, one request—cleanup of debris—was denied.

Ferguson and the entire Congressional delegation from Washington state have been actively seeking support from the Trump administration. The governor said that as early as Sunday he spoke personally with the president about the need for help, and the president “expressed concern for the people of Washington during this difficult time.” Senator Patty Murray led a letter from the delegation to Trump asking for expedited federal assistance. According to lawmakers, this is critical to protect homes, farms, schools, and hospitals, as well as to support people who have been forced to leave their homes.

Ferguson’s cooperation with the president may seem unexpected: earlier, as attorney general of the state, he repeatedly challenged decisions by the Trump administration in court. However, a division of roles applies here. As governor, Ferguson is required to protect the interests of the state’s residents and ensure they have the necessary resources, regardless of political disagreements. Lawsuits were part of the system of checks and balances, and now his task is to coordinate with the federal government. Formally, the process works like this: the governor submits a request to the White House, the president signs the declaration, and FEMA and other agencies work with the state administration through specially appointed coordinators. Political differences, meanwhile, take a back seat—federal assistance is allocated by law, not based on friendship.

The governor is already preparing another request—to declare a major disaster. That would allow individual assistance for affected residents and additional funding for restoring the state’s infrastructure. Previously, FEMA had already allocated funds to fight specific wildfires in Spokane and Okanogan counties, but those grants covered only firefighting efforts and did not cover damage to homes and businesses. It is worth noting that Trump approved a similar request from Ferguson after the December floods, when damage to roads and infrastructure totaled $182.3 million.

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Based on: Trump approves FEMA relief for Spokane wildfires

Seattle event organizers ask mayor to turn on police cameras

Eleven organizers and operators of Seattle’s biggest public events sent a letter to Mayor Kathy Wilson on Monday urging her to turn police surveillance cameras back on in the stadium district and expand their use at Seattle Center. The request follows a recent spate of shootings, including an incident on July 26 at Seattle Center in which three people were killed and at least four others were injured; police are still searching for suspects.

Among the signatories are Seafair, Climate Pledge Arena, Capitol Hill Block Party, the Seattle Storm basketball club, Downtown Seattle Association, Visit Seattle, the Seattle Convention Center, the Space Needle, and others. Seafair is a legendary summer festival that has been held since the 1950s: its core includes hydroplane races on Lake Washington, an air show featuring the U.S. Navy’s “Blue Angels,” and lakeside music events that draw hundreds of thousands of viewers. Climate Pledge Arena is named after the “Climate Pledge,” a global initiative by Amazon and Global Optimism requiring companies to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. Amazon bought the naming rights to the iconic arena KeyArena after a major renovation; it is now the world’s first arena with a “net zero” certification—it runs on renewable energy, including solar, and uses ice slabs for cooling. For Seattle, which considers itself a leader in “green” policy in the U.S., such naming naturally reflects the city’s values. The organizers noted that the World Cup matches went smoothly, but recent shootings are a reminder: any large-scale event is vulnerable to threats to public safety that can put human lives at risk.

Wilson previously questioned the need to expand the network of police cameras, citing risks to privacy and civil rights. She also worried that the federal government could use the recordings for its own purposes, including in the fight against illegal immigration. Since taking office, the mayor has tried not to alienate either side—those who want tough action on cameras and those concerned about their impact. Her spokesperson, Don Sellenberger, said the mayor values the business community’s involvement but will continue to carefully examine the issue, while police will maintain a visible presence at upcoming summer events.

In the city, about 60 police cameras are already operating on Aurora Avenue, downtown Seattle, and in the International District’s Chinatown area. Aurora Avenue—part of State Route 99—has for decades been known for street prostitution, drug dealing, and violent crime, largely due to 24/7 traffic and the large number of motels. The Chinatown International District is Seattle’s oldest neighborhood, where Asian immigrants have historically settled; dense development, older buildings, and social inequality have also contributed to street crime there. These two areas were first equipped with cameras because they recorded the highest number of incidents, and city officials expected that constant video surveillance would improve crime clearance rates and help prevent crime.

After taking office, Wilson paused the installation of new cameras in central Seattle, but allowed cameras to be mounted near stadiums, promising they would be turned on only in a “real threat”—a situation that arose during the World Cup. After the tournament ended, cameras in the stadium area were turned off, as the mayor had promised.

In the letter, the organizers ask to “reactivate 22 surveillance cameras in the stadium district and Pioneer Square,” which are connected to the Seattle Police Department’s Operations Center. They emphasize that armed violence and the availability of weapons pose an “obvious and real threat” to the city. Addressing the mayor, the letter’s authors urge her not to pause camera use, even during the period of research, because tragedies continue to happen year-round.

Wilson commissioned an audit by New York University to study the potential risks of cameras for privacy and civil rights—especially in areas involving immigration enforcement and healthcare related to reproduction and gender identity. At the same time, the University of Pennsylvania, under the oversight of the city’s Office of the Inspector General for Public Safety, is evaluating the cameras’ effectiveness, the results of investigations, and how local residents perceive the program. The results of both independent studies are expected in September.

Joshua Curtis, executive director of Washington State Ballpark, which owns T-Mobile Park, said his organization signed the letter because Mariners fans expect the area around the stadium to be “active, interesting, and safe.” He noted that in June the mayor made the right decision by turning the cameras on, and that the dangers that led to that decision have not disappeared with the end of the World Cup. Curtis acknowledged the legitimacy of privacy concerns, but believes city rules on how the footage is used and stored will prevent improper use: “An audit is absolutely the right step, but you don’t have to stop everything and just wait.”

The cameras were included in the budget proposal made by former Mayor Bruce Harrell for 2024 and were approved by the City Council. Late last year, the council voted to expand their use to part of Capitol Hill, the area near the athletic stadiums, and the surroundings of Garfield High School. Garfield High School is one of Seattle’s oldest and most prestigious public schools, founded in 1920. It is located in the Central District, the historic center of the city’s Black community, and played an important role in the fight for civil rights: in the 1960s, it hosted protests against racial segregation and inequality in education. Despite gentrification, the Central District still faces street crime and shootings, and the school’s proximity makes safety issues especially sensitive; placing cameras around Garfield, city officials say, is a way to protect students and maintain public order. Former police chief Sean Barnes, who retired last week at Wilson’s request, strongly supported the use of the cameras and called them invaluable, putting him at odds with the mayor. How the issue will be handled by new acting police chief Andre Sayles remains unclear.

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Based on: Seattle’s big event organizers ask mayor to turn on police cameras

Smoke from wildfires nears Seattle: how to protect yourself

This weekend, major wildfires erupted across Eastern and Central Washington amid strong winds and hot weather. The fires have destroyed more than 700 structures, and more than 60,000 people have been evacuated from Spokane. Large hotspots are also burning near the Colville Reservation and Lake Chelan. The Colville Reservation is one of the largest in the state—land of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, with extensive forest areas that often suffer from summer fires. Lake Chelan is a long, deep glacial lake in the foothills of the Cascades, popular with tourists. These fires affect the entire region: they worsen air quality, force residents to evacuate, and require firefighters from across the state.

According to weather forecasts, the wind may change as early as Tuesday, and the smoke could reach Western Washington, including Seattle. Although the city is separated from the Cascade hotspots by mountains, for large fires it is no barrier: smoke rises to several kilometers in height, where strong air currents carry it over the ridges. In addition, the Cascades have low passes— Snoqualmie, Stevens, and White Pass—through which smoke seeps into the western part of the state, especially when winds blow from east to west. Experts warn that air quality may become dangerously unhealthy and visibility will decline. This situation is likely to persist at least until Thursday.

Smoke irritates the lungs and can trigger inflammation, making it especially dangerous for children, older adults, pregnant women, and anyone who has to spend long periods outdoors. To protect yourself at home, it’s best to go outside as little as possible and keep doors and windows closed. Prepare a “clean room” in advance with a portable air purifier—for example, one with a HEPA filter—or use a DIY filter. Clean up with a wet mop or cloth rather than sweeping, so you don’t send smoke particles back into the air.

If you do need to go outside, you’ll need respirators such as N95 or P100—available at hardware stores. Single-layer paper masks, surgical masks, and ordinary cloth coverings do not provide sufficient protection from smoke. It’s important that the mask fits tightly against your face; otherwise it won’t work as intended.

If you don’t have a portable air purifier on hand, you can make one: tape a Class MERV 13 or FPR 10 furnace filter onto a standard floor fan. Research shows this setup can reduce the level of some types of air pollution by 90%. However, there are caveats: a DIY device may overheat, so it cannot be left running while you’re asleep or when you’re not at home. Every 30 minutes, you need to turn off the fan so it can cool down.

Stock up in advance on groceries and other essentials so you don’t have to go out more than necessary. A car should not be used as the primary shelter from smoke. If you need to wait out the dangerous period somewhere else, look to libraries, museums, shopping malls, and senior centers—places that usually have air conditioning and air-filtration systems.

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Based on: How to prepare for wildfire smoke in WA

Seattle deadline: targeted reinforcement—and the loss of Raley

The Mariners limited themselves to acquiring Taylor Ward and didn’t take risks at the deadline, while division rivals kept their rosters intact. Meanwhile, Luke Raley’s season is likely over due to a left forearm injury, which raises additional questions about Seattle’s depth in the playoff race.

The Mariners made only one Deadline Day acquisition: why that’s both sensible and risky

The trade deadline in Major League Baseball is always a day of big hopes and big disappointments. This year, the Seattle Mariners chose a cautious approach, even though fans were expecting more. The team made just one deal directly on Deadline Day, acquiring outfielder Taylor Ward from the Baltimore Orioles, and then didn’t push any further. According to a source cited by the Seattle Times, the club considered bolstering the bullpen and even discussed trading another starting pitcher, but in the end it all came down to a targeted offensive upgrade. As the Seattle Times notes in its report, leadership clearly bet that the current roster can contend for a playoff spot—but is that really the case? That’s the big question.

Taylor Ward was the headline acquisition of the day. He’s an interesting player: not a superstar, but he fills one of the Mariners’ most problematic spots—the outfield, where this season has lacked consistent hitting. Ward can show strong discipline at the plate and has enough power to drive in home runs. For a team that has spent years dealing with a lack of offensive punch, this kind of player can be an important piece. However, what was surprising is that the Mariners didn’t go further. Ahead of the deadline, there was active speculation that the club wanted to strengthen the bullpen—the group of pitchers who enter in the late innings. It’s one of the weakest areas of the team in recent weeks, and many expected the general manager to find at least one reliable reliever. That didn’t happen.

Another storyline was the situation involving starting pitchers. Earlier, the Mariners had already sent Luis Castillo to the Chicago White Sox, creating a spot in the rotation. But it seems they were prepared to move someone else too—either George Kirby or Emerson Hancock. Those kinds of rumors always spark plenty of debate among fans, since Kirby is viewed as a young talent with a lot of upside. Yet no deal materialized. Maybe other teams simply didn’t offer a compelling enough price, or maybe Mariners leadership didn’t want to weaken the top five in the rotation, which remains the team’s biggest strength. In modern baseball, good starting pitchers are valued extremely highly, and giving them up without clear benefit would be odd.

Now the Mariners are in a tough position. After two straight come-from-behind wins—when the team grabbed the victory in the final inning—they sit third in their AL West division, trailing the Houston Astros by three games. At the same time, there are only two games to the third wild-card spot—an extra postseason berth for teams that don’t win the division, but finish best among the rest. In other words, the race is tight, and any move at the deadline could prove decisive. You can understand the logic: if the team is already playing well at home and capable of winning late, making sudden changes might disrupt clubhouse chemistry. But on the other hand, choosing not to reinforce the bullpen looks risky, because that’s where the problems have been visible to the naked eye.

For readers who aren’t especially familiar with baseball terminology, a couple quick clarifications are in order. The trade deadline is a hard deadline after which teams can’t trade players until the end of the season, so most deals are attempted before then. A walk-off win is when a team scores the winning run in the bottom half of the final inning and the opponent doesn’t get a chance to respond. And a wild card is a postseason spot for teams that didn’t finish first in their division but posted the best records among the remaining teams. That’s exactly the berth Seattle is chasing right now.

Interestingly, even the journalists covering the deadline point out that the Ward trade was the main story, but not the only one on the Mariners’ internal agenda. Pitching trade rumors were circulating right up until the last moment, and only when the clock struck 3 p.m. Pacific did it become clear that the Mariners would not be making further moves. That leaves a mixed impression. On one hand, management showed discipline and didn’t panic or overpay for mediocre players. On the other hand, fans who expected a serious boost before the most crucial stretch of the season may feel misled.

Overall, the trade can be described as moderately positive. Taylor Ward isn’t a season-saving move, but he is a quality improvement to the lineup—especially if he can adapt quickly to a new team. Meanwhile, the lack of any starting-pitcher trade can be taken as a sign that the organization believes in Kirby and Hancock, at least for now. But if the bullpen continues to blow games, the question of why no additional steps were taken at the deadline will keep coming up again and again. The season is heading into its final stretch, and now each game is nearly must-win. We’ll see whether the Mariners have the courage and depth they showed this past weekend to make the playoffs without big, headline-grabbing acquisitions.

AL West deadline: the Astros barely moved, the Angels finally started rebuilding, and the Rangers got stuck between selling and buying

This year’s MLB trade deadline was widely considered one of the most boring in years, but the final day still delivered plenty of action. The Seattle Mariners were no exception: on Monday they finalized a deal to acquire outfielder Taylor Ward from Baltimore, and earlier over the weekend they traded for several players in a transaction involving four teams. However, the biggest interest for Mariners fans was how their division rivals responded at the deadline. As reported by Seattle Sports, two teams that are ahead of the Mariners in the standings—Houston Astros and Texas Rangers—ended up having an unexpectedly calm day, while the outsiders, above all the Los Angeles Angels, finally went ahead with a long-overdue sell-off.

The Astros, leading the AL West by three games over Seattle, made just one trade in the late hours before the deadline. They improved their outfield by acquiring Toronto center fielder Dalton Varsho, a former Gold Glove winner, and in return they sent right-hander Spencer Arrighetti back. Arrighetti is posting a 7–5 record with a 4.60 ERA over 17 starts this season, but he recently landed on the injured list due to right-foot nerve irritation. Notably, Houston was close to a bigger deal with Minnesota: they could have traded reliever Bryan Abreu for outfielder Trevor Larnach, but according to reports, team owner Jim Crane vetoed the exchange. That decision underscores a strategy that favors taking minimal risks and patching holes rather than completely reshaping the roster.

The Rangers, meanwhile, found themselves in an odd situation. Heading into the deadline, stubborn rumors suggested the reigning champions might begin selling, since they were only 1.5 games out of the wild-card race and 2.5 games behind first place in the division. In the end, Texas opted for modest reinforcement. They traded the utility player Josh Smith and a pitcher from their minor-league system, Josh Stefan, to Toronto in exchange for left-hander Adam Macko — a player Seattle selected with the No. 7 pick in the 2019 draft. In addition, The Athletic reported that two-time Cy Young winner Jacob deGrom used his veto right to block the trade—possibly helping push the Rangers away from the idea of selling their leaders. In other words, the club was trapped in the middle: they neither sold nor truly bought.

The most compelling storyline of the day involved the Angels, who for years faced criticism for refusing to part with players at the trade deadline. This time, the Anaheim club finally started rebuilding. In the deal with Texas, they already received a pitcher in Chase Silseth and catcher Logan O’Hoppe, and on the actual deadline day they made multiple trades. The biggest was sending right-hander Jose Soriano to Toronto, as an All-Star participant, in exchange for three players, with the centerpiece being shortstop Arjun Nimmala, ranked No. 43 on the MLB Pipeline prospect list. The Angels also traded outfielder Jo Adell to Cleveland for catcher Jacob Cozart; dealt hard-throwing Ryan Zeferjahn to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for catcher Moises Ballesteros; and sent pitcher Mason McGuire—son of Mark McGwire—to Pittsburgh. Closer to the deadline, they also shipped reliever Kirby Yates to Pittsburgh. This is the most decisive Angels sell-off in years, and it likely signals the organization has finally acknowledged the need to rejuvenate.

The Oakland Athletics had a quiet deadline because most of their moves were already made earlier in July. They traded starting pitcher Aaron Civale to the Cubs, sent third baseman Brett Harris to Boston, acquired reliever Scott Blewitt from St. Louis, and traded outfielder Colby Thomas from Philadelphia for pitcher Seth Johnson. For a team sitting at the bottom of the division with a 45–67 record, it was a fairly predictable outcome.

The key takeaway for the Mariners is that their competitors didn’t get noticeably stronger—but they also didn’t get weaker. The Astros still look like the division favorites thanks to consistency and experience, and the Rangers kept the core of their roster, even if they didn’t get serious reinforcements. At the same time, the Angels began a long-term rebuild, which means they’re likely to be less dangerous in the next couple of years. For Mariners fans, this suggests the AL West battle will most likely come down to a duel between the Mariners and the Astros and Rangers. But being three games behind the division leader, in that scenario, will require Seattle to play nearly flawlessly in the final two months of the regular season. Taylor Ward certainly strengthens the outfield, but will the Mariners make up the gap, given that their main rivals didn’t make headline acquisitions and kept their rosters intact? That remains a big question. Either way, the deadline showed that Seattle’s front office is intent on competing, while other division teams preferred to play defense or start over entirely.

Luke Raley’s season with the Seattle outfield team is probably over: what it means for the club

Seattle Mariners general manager Justin Hollander effectively wrote off Luke Raley’s season in an interview with Seattle Sports. The outfielder, who was placed on the 10-day injured list last Saturday, has now turned out to be almost certain to miss the rest of the season due to a left forearm injury. It’s an unexpected and painful blow to a roster that’s already going through a difficult stretch following a series of trades.

Raley started the year strong and, through the end of May, held up as one of the most dangerous hitters on the Mariners: his batting average was .290 and his OPS was nearing .932, and he led the team with 13 home runs. Then things unraveled. Starting June 1, in 41 games Raley hit just .152 with a modest .441 OPS and only two balls cleared the fence. The forearm issues, as noted, had been bothering him since late June—when he missed several games between June 28 and July 1—but it was only now that the injury fully derailed him. The final stat line for the season looks inconsistent: in 95 games, Raley finished with .225/.284, a .723 OPS, 15 home runs, and nine doubles.

The situation is compounded by the fact that the Mariners are having to patch holes on the fly. The club has already made several moves, and one of them brought right-handed outfielder Taylor Ward to Seattle, acquired from Baltimore as part of a three-player trade. The 32-year-old Ward is hitting .247 this season with a strong .383 OBP; he has seven home runs, 20 doubles, and a .730 OPS in 111 games. Hollander emphasized that his arrival will significantly strengthen the outfield rotation. In addition, as a result of the trade with the Chicago White Sox—sending pitcher Luis Castillo south—the Mariners also acquired another promising outfielder in Nolan Jones, who finished fourth in the voting for National League Rookie of the Year in 2023, but has yet to appear in the majors this season.

For those who don’t follow baseball stats closely, it’s worth explaining that OPS is the sum of on-base percentage and slugging power—generally considered very good when it’s close to .800 or higher and extremely poor below .600. OBP, meanwhile, shows how often a hitter reaches base, including walks and being hit by pitches. Both metrics are important for evaluating a player’s overall contribution beyond batting average. In Raley’s case, it’s clear that a season that began with so much promise has turned into a fight not only against opposing pitchers, but also against his own health. And while Seattle does have internal options for replacement—and young players like Ward and Jones have been added—losing one of its most powerful left-handed performers right in the middle of the playoff push could end up costing the team dearly. The only question is whether any of the newcomers can fill the gap and take on the same impact workload Raley provided in the first two months of the season.

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Free shuttles launched in downtown Bellevue for light-rail riders

On Monday, Bellevue began rolling out two free shuttle vans that ferry riders from the Bellevue Downtown light-rail station throughout the downtown core. The blue, battery-powered Volkswagen vans—marked “Bellevue Light Rail Shuttle”—depart from the sidewalk by the station from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays. No app is required: just board the seven-passenger van. The pilot program runs through December.

The shuttles will drop you anywhere within the large downtown service area: from Bellevue Square and the Meadenbauer waterfront to the financial district, hotels, and residential complexes in the center of the city. The route also covers neighborhoods east of I-405—Overlake Medical Center, the Bellevue Botanical Garden, and Lake Bellevue, Wilburton, and the Spring District. Popular grocery stores are included as well, including H Mart, Uwajimaya, and Whole Foods. Uwajimaya deserves special mention: the family-run Asian grocery chain was founded in the late 1920s by Japanese immigrant Fujimatsu Moriguchi, survived the internment of Japanese people during World War II, and has long served as a symbol of resilience and preserving traditions for the Asian American community. Its flagship store is in Seattle’s historic International District, and in Bellevue shoppers can find not only Japanese groceries, but also books and cookware—as well as attend holidays and cultural events.

The new service is different from the one residents already know as BellHop. Those vehicles are booked through an app or called from the street, and trips can be quite varied—without necessarily being tied to light-rail stations. BellHop has been operating for three years. Using five electric Kia vehicles, it has carried 265,000 passengers, about half of whom are Bellevue residents. The new shuttle vans build on that service, but are aimed specifically at people coming by train.

The shuttle launch comes amid a sharp surge in ridership following the opening of the March segment of Line 2 between Seattle and Bellevue. This spring, Bellevue Downtown station recorded about 3,700 boardings and roughly the same number of alightings each day—double the figures before the opening. The new project’s budget includes $150,000 from Amazon, while marketing support is provided by the city and Sound Transit. Amazon’s contribution is not incidental: even though the company’s headquarters is in Seattle, it is considered one of the biggest employers in Bellevue as well, where it has offices employing thousands of workers. Free shuttles help solve the “last mile” problem—employees and local residents can travel from the station to work without creating traffic congestion or wasting time searching for parking. Amazon, Microsoft, and other tech giants have already transformed Bellevue from a bedroom suburb into a business hub of its own, with skyscrapers and thousands of jobs, so the company’s interest in transportation infrastructure is hardly surprising. Whether the service continues after December will depend on ridership numbers, feedback, and funding.

These shuttles are designed to address a classic “first-and-last mile” problem in public transportation: many people do not use the metro if getting to the station is difficult. A representative from Visit Bellevue, Anna Yang, said that at the station, people with suitcases often show up looking lost—so during the first month, a special consultant will be on hand to meet morning riders. While the shuttle vans are not yet equipped with wheelchair ramps, city officials are considering adding them.

The service also has deeper roots. The light-rail station was built nearly a mile from the shopping center largely due to the persistent resistance of Kemper Freeman, owner of Bellevue Square, a millionaire and a representative of the family that built one of the region’s major retail empires in Seattle’s eastern suburbs. For decades, he publicly opposed the rail line, fearing that tracks near his shopping complex would bring noise, chaos, and “undesirable” visitors. Using his considerable influence over local politics, Freeman helped change the route: the line was placed away from the main shopping district, meaning it now takes nearly a mile to walk to the famous mall. In addition, many pedestrians often simply avoid crossing I-405 because of the dangerous layout. Still, there is already a pleasant walking route along Northeast Sixth Street, and the city is designing a wider bridge over the highway into the Wilburton area.

Visit Bellevue emphasizes that this is a step toward a more sustainable future for the city—one not completely dependent on cars. Visit Bellevue executive director Brad Jones noted that during BellHop’s operation, it saved about 35,000 gallons of gasoline compared with similar trips in conventional gas-powered vehicles. How successful the new vans will be will be clear in December, but officials are clearly betting on making light rail convenient for everyone.

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Based on: Downtown Bellevue adds free shuttle vans to meet you at light rail

Washington wildfire victims get a delay on insurance payments

Washington state Insurance Commissioner Patty Kuderer signed an emergency order on Monday that protects residents affected by wildfires. They will no longer face the cancellation of homeowners’ and auto insurance policies for nonpayment: companies must provide a 45-day grace period to make payments, not charge late fees, and extend policy terms. The order runs until September 30 and applies to all ZIP codes where fires destroyed buildings or where an evacuation was declared, as well as neighboring areas.

The decision comes in response to one of the most destructive fire-prone seasons in the state’s history. Over the weekend, three major fires around Spokane forced more than 60,000 people to evacuate and destroyed about 700 structures. The National Weather Service warned of an “especially dangerous situation” due to heat, dryness, and strong winds—conditions that help fires spread rapidly. Kuderer expressed condolences to everyone affected and emphasized that the top priority right now is keeping people safe.

The issue of insurance coverage is becoming increasingly acute for Washington residents: due to the high risk of wildfires, insurers are broadly refusing to renew policies or are raising prices. Only in 2023, insurers did not renew nearly 34,000 homeowners’ policies out of about two million—23% more than the year before. The commissioner vowed that her office will work out of disaster assistance centers and provide detailed instructions for filing insurance claims online, so residents can rebuild their property more quickly and get through this difficult period with peace of mind.

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Based on: WA residents affected by wildfires get extra time to pay insurance bills

Rains in the west, fire-prone winds in the east: weather in Washington state

The Cascade Mountains will split Washington state into two entirely different weather zones this weekend. In the west, around Seattle, Friday will start with clear skies and temperatures around +27...+29°C, a bit above the usual July norm. But then a weak weather front will move into the region, and by Saturday residents in the western part of the state will see rain—only the second rain on August 1 in the past 40 years. Thermometers will drop to +22°C, though there will be little precipitation, meteorologists say.

The heaviest rain—about a quarter of an inch, or roughly 6 mm—is expected in the so-called convergence zone over Snohomish County. In Seattle itself, the rain will end by Saturday evening, and Sunday will be cool and cloudy, around +22°C. The unsettled weather may force the Blue Angels aviation team to perform their Seafair show flights at lower altitudes. By the way, the westerly wind that brought the front will push smoke from forest fires eastward across the Cascades, keeping the air over Seattle clear.

But for residents of eastern Washington, things will be much tougher this weekend. As soon as the front crosses the mountains, winds on the eastern slopes of the Cascades will strengthen to 30–40 miles per hour. According to meteorologist Dana Felton, this is especially dangerous when fires are already burning. From Saturday through early Sunday morning, extreme fire danger is forecast in eastern Washington, so residents and emergency services need to be as prepared as possible for fire to spread rapidly.

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Based on: WA weather: dash of rain in the west, fire-risky winds in the east

How to Help Spokane Residents Affected by Wildfires

Three wildfires continue to burn in the Spokane area, known collectively as the Spokane Complex. The flames have destroyed hundreds of structures, and due to an urgent evacuation, more than 60,000 people have been forced to leave their homes. Now the local community is looking for ways to support those affected, and there are many ways to do so—from cash transfers to donating the most essential supplies.

Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown urges residents to be careful and not fall for scams. She recommends using only official sources of information and trusted organizations. One fund in particular is worth highlighting: the H.O.M.E. Starts Here Fund. This is a citywide Seattle initiative aimed at combating homelessness. The fund is set up as a partnership between city government and private nonprofit organizations: money comes both from the city budget and from private donations, while special intermediary funds manage it. Although the fund’s main goal is housing and support for people experiencing homelessness, in emergencies such as wildfires, its resources can be redirected to provide urgent help to those affected. Its flexible structure allows it to respond to acute crises—especially when people are left without shelter.

Several nonprofit organizations have also opened online fundraising drives. The local Innovia Foundation launched the Spokane Complex Wildfire Response Fund to help those affected, as well as businesses and community groups. Innovia is a major community foundation serving eastern Washington and northern Idaho. It collects donations from residents, companies, and estates, and then awards grants to local nonprofits—such as schools, hospitals, family assistance programs, and cultural centers. In rural areas, where large government entities are limited, such foundations often become a primary source of resources. They fund scholarships, food banks, medical clinics, and disaster emergency assistance. Organizations like these are part of a statewide network of so-called community foundations; among them are the Seattle Foundation, Spokane Community Foundation, and Empire Health Foundation. Together, they form the public support infrastructure that complements government programs.

The American Red Cross accepts donations for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, and Catholic Charities Eastern Washington has created an emergency fund to support families who have lost their housing.

Beyond money, organizations also need specific items. Second Harvest Inland Northwest collects shelf-stable food at its center on East Front Avenue. The Project Beauty Share initiative asks residents to bring new hygiene supplies: shampoo, toothbrushes and toothpaste, soap, women’s hygiene products, razors, lotions, deodorants, and combs. Donations can be dropped off in person at East Sprague Avenue, or ordered through an Amazon wish list, with a note in the gift reading “fire relief efforts.”

Don’t forget about household pets, either. SpokAnimal shelter on North Napa Street accepts pet food, blankets, and towels, and is also seeking volunteers willing to temporarily foster animals displaced by fires. Even a small bit of help right now can make an enormous difference in the lives of those who lost everything within just a few hours.

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Based on: How to help Spokane residents during the wildfires

Victory on the water, help in the flames, and a Mariners swap

Andrew Tate won the hydroplane race at Seafair, Washington veterans opened their doors to wildfire victims, and the Mariners traded Luis Castillo to the White Sox.

Andrew Tate wins again at Seafair: a teammates duel heads into the home stretch

Hydroplane racing is a discipline where speed, tactics, and engineering excellence come together—and this season is proving it in full. BWR Racing has been dominating all year, but the intrigue in the individual standings is only growing. Over the weekend in Seattle, at the famed Seafair festival and the Apollo Mechanical Cup, Andrew Tate confirmed his status by winning again and repeating last year’s result. Notably, the fight for first place played out within a single team: Tate in the U-1 BWR Racing boat edged out his teammate, Andrew Shain, who was piloting the U-27 Apollo Mechanical.

For Tate, this win became his first of the current season, adding extra weight to it. The reason is simple: Shain had won the first two events, returning to the sport after a four-year layoff and immediately reminding everyone who the driving force in this category was before he left. Now Tate answered his teammate’s challenge, and the standings have turned fiercely contested. Heading into the final event next month in San Diego, both drivers were essentially tied in the battle for the National High Points Championship. For Tate, it’s an opportunity to secure a third consecutive title, while Shain is clearly aiming for a triumphant comeback.

The Seattle race itself was difficult not only because of the competition on the water. The final had to be delayed by a full hour: the event was running behind schedule, and organizers had to wait for the end of the Blue Angels air show, which is an integral part of the celebration. The pilots were already seated in their boats on the water when they were told they’d have to wait. Despite the pause, Tate’s focus and mindset didn’t slip—he carried the race to victory, strengthening his team’s lead in the team standings.

For those unfamiliar with the sport, it’s worth explaining that unlimited hydroplanes are a racing class built around very powerful aircraft engines, capable of achieving tremendous speed on water and literally “flying” above the surface thanks to a special hull design. Seafair in Seattle is one of the most prestigious stops on the calendar, while the National High Points Championship is the season’s main trophy, awarded based on results across all races. The fact that two drivers from the same team are battling so closely makes the season’s finish especially thrilling.

Tate’s win at Seafair adds points to his personal tally and underscores the strength and engineering potential of BWR Racing, which looks a cut above the competition this season. That said, all attention now turns to San Diego: the outcome of the championship race between two teammates will be decided head-to-head. As the Seattle Times reports, this story will continue, leaving fans to wonder whether Shain can prove his early victories weren’t just luck—or whether Tate will once again confirm his status as the sport’s best driver today.

Fire doesn’t ask who you are: Washington veterans open their doors to wildfire victims

While eastern and central Washington is choking on smoke and flames that have swept across more than 250,000 acres of land, help is coming from those who are used to acting when everything around them is burning. The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Department of Washington announced a mobilization of its regional network: about ninety local posts and twenty thousand members opened their facilities to anyone fleeing the danger. As reported by FOX 13 Seattle, this isn’t just for service members—any resident in need of a safe place away from heavy smoke can get shelter, as well as hot meals and overnight accommodations at any time of day.

VFW public relations specialist Paul Herrera explained the impulse plainly and in military fashion: “When we serve in the military, we follow the principle of ‘service above self,’ so it’s only natural for veterans to help other veterans.” In this case, though, the help goes far beyond the military brotherhood—any person who has lost housing or simply can’t breathe clean air can walk into the smoke-filled halls of local posts. This grassroots initiative becomes especially valuable as official rescue services are operating at their limits, and the weather—heat and wind—only fuels the spread of the fire.

However, leaders of the organization stress that the hardest part will begin after the fire is contained. Families who have lost their homes will face a long recovery process, and for those who have lost everything, support will be needed for many more months. Herrera expressed sympathy for those affected, noting that losing a home is always a tragedy, but it’s especially painful when irreplaceable keepsakes are wiped out in the blaze—family photographs, awards, and military pictures that represent a lifetime for veterans. “Our hearts are with the families and veterans, especially those who have just lost their homes. This will be absolutely devastating,” he said.

The VFW, on its own, is more than a hobby club—it’s a powerful veteran organization that traditionally plays an important role in American community life. In this situation, its network has become an improvised aid hub, where a principle of mutual help—familiar to anyone who has worn a uniform—takes center stage. For those in the Spokane area, the local post’s contact phone number is 509-680-0418. But it’s not just about one specific number: the VFW example shows how horizontal connections between people can help fill gaps in the official disaster response system. While authorities are assessing damage and firefighters fight new pockets of blazes, organizations like the VFW are the ones taking care of the person—his fear, the smoke in his lungs, and the ash left where a family home once stood.

The Mariners trade Luis Castillo to the White Sox: the start of a bigger sell-off before the deadline

Seattle finally made its first truly big move on the summer trade market: veteran right-hander Luis Castillo is headed to Chicago. The decision looks both expected and symbolic—the club has long signaled it’s willing to part with someone from its crowded starting rotation, and Castillo, the team’s oldest and most expensive pitcher, has always been the most obvious candidate to go. Now the Mariners got back three players, including experienced reliever Seranthony Dominguez, and cleared a major contract from their payroll. But, judging by the situation, this is only the beginning: the trade deadline is days away, and interest in other Mariners players continues to rise.

As reported by the Seattle Times, the deal was confirmed on Saturday by a source familiar with the situation. The Chicago club will pick up the remainder of Castillo’s contract—approximately $30 million through the end of the 2027 season. In addition, the 33-year-old right-hander has a $25 million vesting option for 2028, which becomes active if he reaches 180 innings on the field in the next season. For the Mariners, that matters twice: they not only get rid of their current payments, but also reduce the risk of a future obligation. In return, Seattle receives right-handed reliever Seranthony Dominguez, outfielder Nolan Jones, and a catcher from the Double-A level, Boston Smith, plus some cash compensation.

Mariners president Jerry Dipoto, in an official statement, called Castillo an essential part of the club’s history. “ ‘Rock’ was a key element of this era in our organization’s story,” Dipoto said. “His arrival and then his play in 2022 set the tone for the fantastic stretch we enjoyed in Seattle. We value everything he did and wish him continued success.” Those words reflect the club’s double position: parting with one of the heroes of the recent past isn’t happening because it’s convenient—it’s happening because his output has sharply declined.

Four years ago, Castillo was nearly the Mariners’ best deadline acquisition in the franchise’s history. He came from Cincinnati in a five-player deal, immediately signed a five-year, $108 million extension, and played a key role in Seattle ending a 21-year playoff drought in 2022. For three full seasons, he was a model of stability: in his first 106 starts for the Mariners, his ERA was 3.46, and he recorded 633 strikeouts in 618 innings. In 2023, he was selected to the All-Star Game held right there at the Mariners’ home ballpark—T-Mobile Park—and finished the season with a 14-9 record, a 3.34 ERA, and 219 strikeouts in 197 innings.

But this year, everything changed. In April and May, his numbers dropped noticeably, and despite being the team’s highest-paid player, he effectively slid to sixth in a rotation of six pitchers. For the club, that was a signal: Castillo’s contract no longer matches his contribution on the field. The fact that the White Sox agreed to assume all of the financial obligations is a separate win for Seattle, since just a week earlier it wasn’t clear whether anyone would be willing to pay that kind of money for a pitcher whose performance was falling.

Now Castillo will slot into the middle of the young Chicago club’s rotation as it fights to win its division. As for the Mariners, they won’t stop there. According to a source, the club will continue talks about other starting pitchers—George Kirby and Emerson Hancock. Interest is also expected to build around left fielder Randy Arozarena, who is set to become a free agent soon. That means the Castillo deal is likely just the first step in a larger roster reshaping before Monday’s deadline.

Of the players acquired, Dominguez is likely to have the clearest role. The 31-year-old reliever is in his eighth season in the league. This year he signed a two-year, $20 million contract with Chicago. In the 2025 season, he looked uneven: a 4.10 ERA and 12 saves in 42 games. An interesting detail: it was Dominguez last fall, while playing for Toronto, who missed a grand slam by Eugenio Suárez in the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series—an event that flipped the momentum of the game. Now he’ll appear in Seattle in big moments, but he likely won’t take the primary closer role—that spot will remain with Andres Munoz.

Nolan Jones is the riskier option. The 28-year-old left-handed outfielder finished fourth in the National League Rookie of the Year voting in 2023 while playing for Colorado, and he made an impression with 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases. But the next two seasons saw him below average, and this year he didn’t appear in the major leagues at all, playing the whole season in Triple-A. For the Mariners, this looks like an attempt to restart the career of a player with clear talent. The third acquisition is Boston Smith—a promising catcher and outfielder ranked 15th in the White Sox’ prospect rankings. He landed in Chicago from Washington this spring in a trade for Curtis Mead.

For those who don’t follow baseball nuances, here are a couple of terms. The trade deadline is a hard date after which teams can’t make deals until the end of the season; this year it falls on Monday at 3:00 p.m. local time. A vesting option means the contract option automatically kicks in if a specific condition is met—in this case, 180 innings next season. A six-pitcher rotation is a strategy where a team uses six starting pitchers instead of the traditional five, giving each one an extra day of rest. And a “high-leverage role” is a spot in the lineup when a pitcher comes into the game during the most tense moments—when the score is on the line.

The key takeaway from this trade is that the Mariners chose to be pragmatic

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Andre Sayles Named Seattle Police Interim Chief

Seattle Deputy Police Chief Andre Sayles has been named interim head of the department after Police Chief Sean Barnes resigned Thursday. The resignation followed a wave of criticism of police after a mass shooting in Seattle Center on Sunday that killed three people and injured five others.

Seattle Center is a sprawling cultural and public space created for the 1962 World’s Fair, home to the iconic Space Needle, the Climate Pledge Arena, theaters, museums and concert venues. The area is known as “the living room of Seattle.” City festivals, fairs and celebrations take place there, so the tragedy at such a signature location for the city was especially painful.

Mayor Kacie Wilson said she and Barnes agreed with Sayles as an interim choice while they search for a permanent chief, adding that she is confident he will provide “stability” during the transition.

Sayles began his career more than 20 years ago with the Beloit Police Department in Wisconsin, where he rose to chief in 2021. During 12 years with the SWAT unit, including four years as commander, he led numerous crime-reduction initiatives. According to a biography on the Seattle Police Department website, it was during Sayles’s tenure in Beloit from 2021 to 2024 that the number of victims suffering gunshot wounds fell by 81%, and shootings in public places dropped by 80%. Barnes was also the one who recruited Sayles to Seattle from Wisconsin.

The news was welcomed by colleagues. Assistant Chief Tyrone Davis, who had also been mentioned as a possible interim chief, called Sayles “an amazing and reliable person” and said everyone would be happy with his appointment. For Sayles, it is a significant challenge: Seattle has a population of more than 800,000 and a force of about 1,000 officers—far larger than Beloit, where roughly 36,000 people live and a little more than 70 officers serve.

The issue of gun violence has been one of the major focuses of the Wilson administration after Sunday’s tragedy.

Sayles has publicly argued for what he called “respectable, progressive policing,” emphasizing community trust, diversity in hiring and community engagement. He created specialized units—narcotics and gangs—built a tactical unit and revived the youth program “Explorer.”

Sayles holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa Wesleyan and a master’s degree in criminal justice with an emphasis on police leadership from the University of Wisconsin–Platteville, and he has completed several leadership training programs.

The interim appointment has already taken effect. In Seattle, the mayor selects the permanent police chief, and then the candidate is confirmed by the city council during public hearings. The interim chief, by contrast, is appointed by the mayor without the full confirmation process and can fully manage the department, but without a guaranteed term in office. The city plans to announce the search for a permanent police chief soon.

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Based on: Andre Sayles named Seattle’s new interim police chief

Seattle Mayor Sets Requirements for New Police Chief

Seattle Mayor Cathy Wilson said Friday at a press conference that the search for a permanent police chief is being conducted “with urgency” and will include the creation of a special screening committee. In her words, she is looking for someone who knows how to build relationships within the department, can listen to criticism, and “can maintain clear communication in stressful situations.” “Despite all the complexities of the moment we’re in, I’m very optimistic about the future of our police and public safety in Seattle,” Wilson emphasized.

While the search for a permanent leader is underway, the duties of the interim police chief have been taken on by Deputy Chief Andre S. Searles—after Sean Barnes resigned on Thursday. Wilson said she chose Searles because “he’s done this job before and will be able to step into the process quickly.” She also noted his deep commitment to the principles of community policing and working with youth, as well as his ability to build ties between law enforcement and city residents.

Searles is stepping into the role at a particularly tense time for the city: last week, a shooting occurred at Seattle Center, killing three people and injuring four. Seattle Center is not just a park, but the city’s main public gathering place, created for the 1962 World’s Fair. It is home to the Space Needle, theaters, museums, concert halls, and fountains; every summer, the largest festivals and fairs take place there. For residents, it symbolizes Seattle—a place families and children come to for picnics and celebrations—so the shooting is being felt as a blow to the city’s very identity and sense of safety. That is part of what explains the strong public reaction.

One of the sharpest questions has been why the police took so long to release information about the incident—people, in fear, waited for news for almost five hours. After a wave of criticism, city officials promised to change the order of operations so that in crisis situations alerts would work much faster and more clearly.

As for the resignation of Sean Barnes, appointed by former Mayor Bruce Harrell in late 2024, Wilson confirmed that she asked him to step down and that he did so voluntarily. According to the mayor, the decision was tied to Sunday’s events—“but not only to them.” She acknowledged that on that day there were breakdowns in communication both within the police department and between the department and her office. “In the future, in situations like this, we need to start informing the public much earlier,” Wilson added.

The new permanent chief will have to work under federal oversight imposed on the Seattle Police Department as far back as 2012. At the time, after an investigation, the U.S. Department of Justice found that the city’s police systematically used excessive force and conducted unconstitutional stops, especially targeting minorities. The court approved a required agreement—“consent decree” —which requires the city to carry out reforms: change use-of-force policies, improve officer training, keep strict statistics, and report to an independent monitor. As a result, the future police chief must be more than just a leader—a reformer: they will have to ensure the court’s requirements are implemented, roll out new standards, and rebuild community trust.

Wilson also said the future chief should understand the value of alternative crisis response systems. In Seattle, programs already send teams beyond armed police to calls involving mental health, homelessness, or addiction. For example, there are paired “medic + social worker” teams (HealthOne), joint patrols of police officers with psychologists, and the LEAD program, which directs people with drug addiction away from jail and toward treatment and social support. There are also civilian crisis teams that, in some cases, fully replace police. Support for such systems is required not only by the federal agreement, but also by common sense: it reduces the number of conflicts and cases of brutality, saves police resources for investigating serious crimes, and makes the city safer without unnecessary arrests.

Andre Searles began his law-enforcement career more than 20 years ago with the Beloit Police Department in Wisconsin, where he rose to chief in 2021. He spent 12 years in the Special Operations Unit, serving as commander for four of those years. In 2025, he moved to the Seattle Department as deputy chief for administrative affairs and investigations. At his first press conference, Searles said he does not take the new role lightly: “This week has been difficult, but I know what our department and city can do when we come together for the shared goal of keeping residents safe.” He also promised to increase the number of officers at all major summer events.

City officials have not yet released major details about the shooting investigation, other than that the police continue to look for multiple suspects. Searles said the officers “are very close” to arresting at least one of them. Recall that a 15-year-old was arrested at the scene on Sunday and faces charges of first-degree assault. Wilson also responded to criticism from residents and the city council, who questioned the wisdom of changing police leadership during such a chaotic period. “As the head of the city, I have a different view of our department, and I’m confident I’m making the right decision at the right time,” she said.

One factor that appears to have contributed to Barnes’s resignation was his frequent absence from the city—at the time of the shooting, he was attending a conference in Dallas and returned only by Monday morning. Wilson emphasized that the new permanent chief must “be constantly present in Seattle” and keep travel to a reasonable minimum. Searles, for his part, said he lives in King County’s Eastside area, and that his family is partly in Illinois, but he plans to ultimately settle here. The mayor added that the future chief should be able to work with oversight bodies and maintain feedback with the community. “I believe that an overwhelming majority of our city’s residents want the same thing,” she concluded.

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Based on: Seattle mayor describes what she wants in new police chief

Kitsap residents will decide whether electricity supply should move from a private company to the...

In November, residents of Kitsap County in the U.S. state of Washington will vote on whether the local utility Kitsap PUD could take over the county’s electricity service. Today, that service is provided by the private company Puget Sound Energy (PSE). The PUD board of commissioners decided to bring the measure to a vote on Tuesday after public hearings held amid a wave of complaints from residents about rapidly rising electricity bills.

A PUD, or Public Utility District, is a special form of local government in Washington state, created by law in 1931 at the request of county residents. Such a district may provide any utility services—electricity, water, sewer, garbage pickup, and communications. The law does not limit a PUD to a single line of business, meaning Kitsap PUD can legally pursue the role of electricity provider even while it remains the operator of water, sewer, and communications. To do so, all that is required is for residents of the county to approve, via referendum, a study and the creation of a public power utility; moreover, under Washington law, a PUD also has the right to forcibly buy out a private company’s infrastructure within its territory (eminent domain).

It’s important to understand: approving the initiative does not mean an immediate switch to a new system. It only allows the PUD to conduct a feasibility study to evaluate costs for consumers and gives the county the authority for a potential transition in the future. PUD officials stress that the vote is only another step in a long process, and that residents will ultimately decide whether to continue. PSE, by contrast, believes residents are being asked to effectively sign a blank check, and that municipal power may not be cheaper.

Rising rates across the country have fueled public campaigns to bring electricity supply under local government control. Energy companies typically resist this scenario, warning about the high costs of transition, and PSE is no exception: it has already opposed similar efforts in other counties in the state. A telling example is Jefferson County, where in 2008 residents narrowly—by 53.3%—approved the county replacing PSE as the electricity provider. Service began about five years later; it is believed that the effort succeeded in part because PSE spent less money fighting the initiative than in other counties.

In Kitsap, the scale of a potential switch is significant: the PUD currently serves about 18,000 households with water, sewer, and communications, while PSE supplies electricity to 133,000 county customers. Last week, more than 300 people turned up for the PUD hearing; among those who spoke was the state’s deputy attorney general, who discussed PSE’s current rate case. The company is asking the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) to approve a 29% rate increase over three years.

The UTC is a state regulator that oversees private utility monopolies, including PSE. The company cannot raise rates on its own: it files an application with the UTC, after which public hearings are held, cost evidence is examined, and a decision is made—either approve the increase in full, approve it in part, or reject it. Many residents and activists, however, believe the UTC is too lenient toward companies and allows increases that unduly burden households. As a result, the November referendum in Kitsap can be seen as a direct response to the regulator’s decisions: people are frustrated by years of rate hikes approved by the UTC, and they are looking for an alternative to a private monopoly.

If the increase is approved, the average bill would rise by $28 per month in 2027, by $7 in 2028, and by about $16 in 2029. Since 2020, PSE rates have already doubled, and in the last two years they have risen by 45%. The average consumer using 800 kWh per month now pays about $160, up from about $110. At the same time, owners of larger or older homes pay significantly more.

There are several reasons prices have gone up: inflation, increased competition in the wholesale electricity market, a sharp rise in demand during cold and hot periods, aging infrastructure, and wildfires. Another factor is that PSE must comply with the state’s climate laws and shift to clean energy, which requires major investment. The main one is the 2019 Clean Energy Transformation Act (CETA): it requires PSE to fully phase out coal generation by 2025, raise the share of clean energy to 80% by 2030, and move to 100% carbon-free energy by 2045. The second key law is the 2021 Climate Commitment Act (CCA), which creates a cap-and-invest system: companies are required to buy CO₂ emission allowances at auctions, and those costs are built into rates. Meeting the requirements means closing gas power plants, building expensive wind and solar facilities, purchasing “green” certificates and carbon offsets/allowances. PSE includes all of these costs in its rates, and that is why residents’ bills are rising. That is where the dispute has centered: whether consumers are sufficiently protected, given that they ultimately have to pay for these expenses. The November referendum in Kitsap will give residents a chance to weigh in directly on this pressing issue.

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Based on: Kitsap voters to weigh in on public power amid high energy costs

Washington students set record for financial aid applications

This year, Washington high school graduates submitted a record number of applications for college financial aid: more than 44,000 seniors completed the FAFSA form. It’s the second year in a row that the state has surpassed its own previous result. The success was made possible by years of coordinated efforts by state officials to increase the number of applications, since many students simply don’t use the available resources for education and career training because they never apply for aid.

FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is a single form that American students fill out to receive state-backed financial help for college—grants, subsidized loans, and other types of support. Without it, most families are simply unable to pay for higher education. A key player in this work is the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC), a state agency created in 2012 to coordinate the entire education system in Washington—from kindergarten through universities. The council develops a decade-long strategic plan for education, tracks student performance, and runs major financial aid programs, including the Washington College Grant and the College Bound scholarship for students from low-income families. In essence, WSAC is a link between the state government, schools, colleges, and students: it sets priorities, distributes scholarships, and collects data so that more Washington residents can pursue higher education or career training.

Governor Bob Ferguson has been actively pushing the idea of making FAFSA completion a requirement for earning a high school diploma. He has already signed an executive order requiring the setting of annual targets for submitted applications, and he personally campaigns with students across the state. As Mike Meotti of the Washington Student Achievement Council puts it, “the combined attention” from officials makes school principals and teachers take the issue more seriously. The governor’s proposal is also supported by the fact that a similar requirement is already in place in some other states.

Beyond public campaigns, officials also work in a quieter way: the council reaches directly out to schools where historically only a small percentage of students file FAFSA, and it has created a chatbot for students and parents to help them navigate important financial deadlines. These efforts gained momentum about three years ago, as the effects of the pandemic began to fade. The number of applications is expected to keep rising through fall: the academic year at Washington colleges begins later than in many other states, and students at local community and technical colleges often decide whether to enroll at the very last moment.

At the same time, Washington has historically ranked among the lowest states nationwide in the share of students who complete FAFSA. The paradox has several explanations at once. The state has one of the highest student-to-counselor ratios in the country—more than 400 to one—so high school students have little support to understand the complicated application process. Demographics also play a role: Washington has many children of immigrants; undocumented students cannot apply for FAFSA at all, and families with mixed immigration status often fear sharing personal financial information with the federal government. In addition, unlike in some other states, completing FAFSA in Washington is not required to receive a high school diploma, so schools don’t organize systematic application drives. Finally, the state’s strong economy plays an unexpected role: high salaries in the tech sector and construction can create the impression that a diploma isn’t necessary, and some students never even begin the process of applying for aid—despite the fact that state grants could help those students the most.

At a press conference, Ferguson said the problem lies in insufficient information, and that a mandatory requirement ensures that every graduate will at least consider applying. Legislators will take up the proposal in 2027 alongside other updates to school completion requirements, and then it will become clear whether the new approach will change the financial future of thousands of Washington students.

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Based on: WA high schoolers hit new financial aid milestone

Seattle will allocate nearly $5M for free meals for schoolchildren

Seattle City Council unanimously, 9 votes to 0, approved nearly $5 million for free meals for all students in public schools. Beginning this fall, students will be able to get free breakfasts and lunches, and low-income families will receive additional food support during weekends and school breaks. The decision came after long negotiations between the mayor’s office and council members.

Just last week, it seemed the program—one of Mayor Kati Wilson’s top goals—might have to be delayed. Several council members doubted the city could sustain funding it in the future and debated whether to spend taxpayers’ money on universal meals for all, rather than targeted help for the students most in need. Some advisers suggested waiting a year and instead launching a voucher program for low-income families.

In the end, the parties reached a compromise. About $4.74 million for free lunches and breakfasts will come from the updated FEPP property tax—Families, Education, Preschool, and Promise. This is a special local levy that Seattle residents approved in a referendum in November; it operates in addition to the regular municipal tax and is earmarked for supporting families, early childhood education, student aid, and future grants for college. The six-year levy totals $1.3 billion. The City Council decided to use part of those funds for school meals because one of the FEPP goals is to combat child poverty and ensure equal access to education: lunch is part of the school day, and hunger directly undermines learning. The money will go into the city budget, and the council has the authority to direct it to programs prioritized for the well-being of students.

The allocated funds will cover meals in the 2027–28 school year. Funding for the next school year (2026–27) still needs to be separately approved by the city council budget committee in a vote on August 4. Going forward, expenses are planned to be covered by a new state tax of 9.9% on households with income above $1 million per year—though the measure is currently being challenged in court and could be overturned following the November elections.

The decision is made by the City Council, not the school district, because in the United States the SPS—Seattle Public Schools—district is independent of city administration and runs the schools, teachers, and curricula. However, federal programs cover meals only for children from low-income families; to feed everyone for free, additional funds are needed. The City Council controls the city budget and local taxes, including FEPP, so it is the council that can direct city money toward universal free school meals. The mayor’s office prepares the budget proposal and supports the initiative, but the final word belongs to the council. SPS itself serves as the operator: it purchases food, hires staff, and hands out meals in schools. The mayor’s office acts as a liaison, coordinating between the city and the district.

In addition to school meals, the council also approved $4 million for a six-year food assistance program: SPS specialists will provide families with food vouchers during weekends and school holidays. The program will begin this fall. Today, about half of Seattle’s schools already feed all students for free; the new funding will bring the total up by adding another 50 schools.

Mayor Kati Wilson called the decision “a huge win for families in our city” and emphasized that free meals will make Seattle more affordable to live in. Council members, in turn, noted that although there had previously been disagreements, the sides managed to find a “financially responsible path” that everyone supported. The program will become one of the most wide-ranging student support measures in the city’s history.

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Based on: Seattle City Council OKs nearly $5M for free school meals

Seattle: wind, football and city hall crisis

Due to strong winds at the Seafair festival, the Blue Angels show was canceled. Seattle Sounders are preparing for the derby with Portland: Kim Kee-hee in the starting lineup, Rusnak as captain. After a shooting in the city, a scandal erupted: the mayor had demanded the police chief’s resignation, and the city council expressed no confidence in the administration.

Blue Angels’ Seafair show canceled in Seattle due to wind

Organizers of Seattle’s annual summer festival Seafair announced the cancellation of Saturday’s air show featuring the famed U.S. Navy precision aerobatics team Blue Angels. The reason was strong winds that exceeded allowable limits for safe flight. The decision disappointed thousands of spectators gathered along Lake Washington’s shoreline, but the organizers emphasized that safety remains an absolute priority.

As reported by The Seattle Times, six F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jets were scheduled to perform advanced aerobatic maneuvers in the sky over the lake, but weather conditions forced changes. According to the National Weather Service, wind gusts on the west side of Lake Washington, near Magnuson Park, were about 15 miles per hour, and the water in the lake was noticeably choppy. Seafair president and CEO Emily Cantrill explained that the air-show team had been monitoring the wind throughout the day and recorded the strengthening in the second half of the day. Five other aerobatics teams managed to perform safely earlier, but for the Blue Angels the gusts proved critical: they exceeded the threshold set in the team’s own technical specifications.

It’s also worth noting that Saturday was remembered not only for the cancellation of the main air performance. About eighty protesters gathered at the festival site to express their opposition to military pilots taking part in a civilian celebration. The rally, called “No Blue Angels,” brought together climate activists, opponents of war, doctors, and local residents. In their statement, they urged Seafair organizers to give up military air shows and find alternative ways to celebrate summer—celebrating the region’s waters and cultural traditions.

Despite the Blue Angels’ cancellation, the organizers said they were confident that Sunday, the festival’s final day, would go ahead as planned: the weather forecast offers hope that the wind will die down. In addition, Saturday morning’s seaplane races were canceled, but daytime boat events still took place. In this way, the festival continued—just without its most spectacular act.

For those unfamiliar with these events, it’s helpful to clarify: Seafair is a traditional summer festival in Seattle held since the early 1950s and featuring seaplane races, air shows, and a variety of entertainment along the waterfront. Blue Angels is the elite U.S. Navy aerobatics team, formed in 1946, that performs on F/A-18 Super Hornets and is known for its complex, synchronized advanced aerobatic maneuvers. The decision to cancel flights due to wind is not made at random: even if winds appear moderate at 15 miles per hour, gusts near ground level can seriously affect an aircraft’s handling when executing maneuvers at low altitudes—creating an unacceptable risk for both the pilots and spectators.

The lesson from this situation is clear: organizers of major air shows are willing to trade spectacle for safety, and that is the right approach. At the same time, the incident highlighted growing public tension around military displays at civilian events: protests against the Blue Angels in Seattle are becoming more visible, and organizers may in the future have to find a balance between tradition and changing public sentiment. For now, spectators can only hope for good weather on Sunday and the chance to see the legendary fighter jets in the sky over Lake Washington.

Kim Kee-hee returns to the lineup, and Albert Rusnak gets the captain’s armband: Seattle Sounders announce lineup for match in Portland

Seattle Sounders head coach Brian Schmetzer has finalized the lineup for the away match against the Portland Timbers, to be played at Providence Park. In an official announcement posted on the club’s website, it’s confirmed that the South Korean defender Kim Kee-hee returns to the starting XI, while the captain’s armband for this match goes to Slovak midfielder Albert Rusnak. The match itself is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Pacific Time, and fans can follow it via Apple TV’s streaming service, as well as on FS1; on the radio at 93.3 KJR FM or in the Spanish-language broadcast on El Rey 1360AM.

For those not too familiar with soccer terminology, it’s worth explaining that “starting lineup” refers to the exact eleven players who take the field from the first minutes—not players who come on later from the bench. Kim’s return to the starting XI is an important signal: the experienced defender, whose inclusion in the start is not always guaranteed due to rotation and a packed schedule, is clearly being considered by the coaching staff as a key element of the back line specifically in this high-stakes rivalry match. Meanwhile, the captain’s armband Rusnak wears is not just a formality, but a sign of trust and recognition of the player’s leadership on the pitch. Typically, the captain serves as a link between the team and the referee, and also takes on extra responsibility for the emotional tone of teammates in a tough away environment.

It’s also notable that matches between Seattle and Portland always carry special weight: it’s a classic Cascadia derby in which not only the standings matter, but also the fierce rivalry between two U.S. Northwest cities. Playing on Portland’s home turf is traditionally a difficult test, as local supporters create an especially dense and loud atmosphere. That’s why coaching-staff lineup decisions in such matches are often decisive. The lack of lengthy tactical commentary in the announcement is, however, perfectly understandable: coaches usually prefer to reveal tactical details after the opening whistle, and until then they stick to a dry confirmation of facts.

In a club official note on its website, it’s also mentioned that the lineup is published as the “Delta Starting XI”—a sponsor name for the starting eleven, tied to the club’s partnership with the airline Delta. For careful observers, the choice of captain and Kim’s return to the starting XI provide plenty to think about: Schmetzer is likely leaning on experience and reliability in defense, while expecting Rusnak to take control of the midfield. Although the short preview includes neither detailed tactical breakdowns nor player comments, the lineup alone says a lot—the derby does not tolerate experiments, and the coach has opted for tried-and-true options in key positions. Ahead for Sounders fans is a tense evening, and now everything will depend on whether the team can deliver on the plan on the field.

A week of chaos in Seattle: the mayor and police lost control of the situation

Seattle is arguably facing the most severe crisis in city governance in years. After a mass shooting on Sunday that killed three people, the mayor and the police chief—rather than coordinating their response—got into a public back-and-forth that instantly eclipsed the tragedy itself. The city council, the police union, and local media all say the administration has completely lost their trust, while the main suspects in the killings are still at large. It’s a story of how political inexperience and inflated ambition turned a routine management failure into a large-scale crisis of trust—forcing even seasoned officials to dig up World War II-era military acronyms.

What happened in Seattle this week is hard to call anything other than a failure. On Sunday evening at the Bite of Seattle festival, unknown assailants opened fire on the crowd, killing three people. Police quickly arrested one of the alleged participants in the shooting, but the lead shooter—and, according to the new acting police chief, possibly several other suspects—disappeared. And that’s where things get most strange: city officials did not publish any information for several hours. Neither City Hall nor the police department was reachable while rumors of a Columbine-style terror attack shook the city. Social media filled with panicked questions, and residents demanded some clarification. When Mayor Cathy Wilson finally appeared on camera, she looked flustered and effectively admitted she hadn’t understood the scale of the information disaster. “At the time, I didn’t realize how little information had reached the public and the press since the incident at 6 p.m.,” she said. “If I had known, I would have insisted on an immediate briefing.” For a mayor with a huge staff, that lack of knowledge looks, to put it mildly, unusual—and it’s no surprise that her explanation only poured fuel on the fire.

But the real scandal erupted around Police Chief Sean Barnes. It turned out that during a major event he was outside the city, and rather than dealing with the situation, the mayor issued an order demanding his resignation. At the same time, Wilson never named clear reasons for firing Barnes—either at a press conference or in official statements. The council, which has seen four mayors and six police chiefs change over a decade, was in shock. “This is more than just mistakes or miscalculations,” councilmember Debora Juarez said in an interview with KOMO News. “I see a complete lack of leadership and, for some of us, a lack of trust in this administration.” Six of the nine council members, in one way or another, expressed no confidence in the mayor, and four released a joint statement warning that “changing police leadership at this moment puts the city in danger.” Councilmember Maritza Rivera spoke of “incompetence and bad decisions,” while Joy Hollingsworth called the mayor’s actions “irresponsible and reckless.” Even the police union, typically restrained in public assessments, accused Wilson of creating “chaos, confusion, and contradictory messages.”

The irony is that Barnes himself, judging by the available information, doesn’t appear to have been a bad chief at all. Crime conditions in Seattle improved under him, overall crime fell, and the city was clearly moving in the right direction. The issue of his travel was an elementary personnel-management matter the mayor should have handled directly with him—not carried out as a public execution. Local media outlet The Medium’s publisher Chris Bennett rightly noted that firing Barnes without explanation looks like an attempt to make him a scapegoat: “Seattle deserves a clear explanation based on his overall performance, not political circumstances or a desire to redirect public anger.” At a press conference on Friday, Wilson answered evasively: “As the head of the executive branch of the city, I see what other people do not.” But when asked what exactly she sees, she did not provide an answer.

This scandal isn’t just another episode in political fighting. It exposed a deeper problem in modern politics, which the article’s author calls a triumph of populism. The core idea is that voters—tired of mistakes and the bureaucracy of the establishment—are increasingly betting on “fresh faces,” people without experience managing government. That’s how Donald Trump came to power, and—according to a Seattle Times columnist—that’s how Cathy Wilson, a former activist who had never held elected office, became mayor of a major city. But governing a state isn’t a business or a public campaign where you can rely on enthusiasm and intuition. Here you need specialized skills, the ability to communicate, and decision-making in crisis situations—and this week in Seattle clearly showed what happens when those skills are lacking. While the mayor and council worked out who was to blame for the lack of information, the killers were still at large, and council members, in despair, reminded people, “We’re still in the middle of the crisis.” It’s hard to think of a more precise illustration of the famous military acronym SNAFU—“situation normal, all hell breaks loose.” All that remains is the plain question the author asks at the end of the piece: is it really too much to ask that the job just get done? Apparently, in Seattle, yes. You can read more about the course of the crisis in the original Seattle Times article.

The author deftly uses military slang to describe the atmosphere in City Hall. The term SNAFU (“situation normal, all hell breaks loose”) and its rougher cousin FUBAR (“totally fouled up, beyond all recognition”) emerged even during World War II to describe chronic confusion in the Army’s chain of command, when soldiers watch their own command’s ineffectiveness with cynicism and resignation. In the context of Seattle, these acronyms mean the crisis isn’t driven by external circumstances, but by a systemic inability of leadership to do its basic job. Particular attention is also due to a telling detail: neither City Hall nor the police were able to quickly dispel rumors of a Columbine-style mass shooting, even though police knew it involved clashes between street gangs rather than a terror attack. The fact was confirmed by the shooter who was detained within the first minutes. The information silence, combined with the subsequent fallout between the mayor and the police chief, meant that the main question—how to prevent something like this in the future—was completely pushed out of the agenda. Over the course of the week, city authorities spent enormous political capital and still did not give the public a clear answer about either the progress of the investigation or the reasons behind the personnel shake-up. For Seattle, where no mayor has been re-elected for a second term for two decades, this is an especially worrying sign: the city appears to be entering a new phase of chronic instability, and voters may be doomed to keep experimenting with untested candidates.

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Seattle: Mariners’ Grit Wins, Blue Angels Airshow Canceled, and Larnach’s Guest-Side Edge

The Mariners pulled off a comeback win over the Twins (4-3), deciding the game in the ninth inning thanks to Cal Raleigh. Meanwhile, Trevor Larnach continues to surprise with his away-game numbers—seven of his nine home runs have come on the road. And in Seattle, due to strong winds, the Blue Angels’ performance at the Seafair festival was canceled.

Larnach on the road: why Trevor has become the Twins’ main weapon in Seattle

In Saturday’s game between Minnesota and Seattle, what caught the attention of the stat-obsessed crowd wasn’t so much the intrigue of the matchup itself as a curious pattern in the outfield performances of Twins outfielder Trevor Larnach. According to MLB.com, this season Larnach has hit seven of his nine home runs in away games, and his OPS in 47 road games is an impressive .859. That figure stands out against his more modest home output, even though the overall picture of the 29-year-old’s performance still looks fairly steady.

To understand what these numbers mean, it helps to clarify what OPS is. It’s a combined stat that takes into account a player’s on-base percentage and slugging percentage to measure performance at the plate—more simply, OPS reflects a hitter’s ability not only to get the ball on the bases, but also to create value for the team through offensive production. A .859 OPS is considered very good for a middle-of-the-order type outfielder; it puts Larnach in the same tier as established bats who don’t just hit, but do it effectively. The fact that he’s achieving that OPS primarily through road streaks gives Minnesota’s coaching staff something to think about.

Of course, seven of nine road homers is a relatively small sample, and it would be an exaggeration to talk about any magical connection between the ballpark and raw power. Still, for analysts it’s a signal: Larnach clearly isn’t dealing with psychological discomfort when he’s away from home stands. If anything, he’s showing composure and the ability to adapt to different conditions—whether it’s lighting factors, field quality, or even a hostile crowd. In today’s baseball, where teams spend nearly half the season on the road, that trait is valued extremely highly. That’s why the Twins keep trusting Larnach with a spot in the starting lineup even during rough stretches.

It’s also worth noting that Seattle, specifically, has turned into something of a cold shower for Larnach—the Mariners are known for a park that’s traditionally considered one of the more unfriendly places for hitters because of dense ocean air that can smother the ball’s flight. That makes it even more notable that Trevor seems especially confident in those circumstances. It appears that on the road, the player takes on more of a leadership role—recognizing that his timely swing could decide the outcome of the entire game. So far, it’s working: his road production is comparable to the numbers of the league’s best outfielders, and if he keeps it up, it’s reasonable to expect his name to come up more often in discussions about the most underrated offensive player in the American League by the end of the regular season. For the Twins—who are fighting to secure a favorable playoff position—this kind of away-game consistency is a real gift, because it’s often in road games where the fate of pitcher duels and series is decided. And if Larnach can bring that road confidence over to the home ballpark, the Twins will gain an even more dangerous weapon in what is already a substantial offensive lineup.

Cap Raleigh delivers the Mariners’ grit win over the Twins: 4-3

In Saturday’s game in Seattle, the Mariners snapped a three-game losing streak by beating the Twins 4-3. The deciding moment came in the ninth inning, when Randy Arozarena drove in the go-ahead run, and Cal Raleigh knocked the ball toward first base, allowing the runner to sprint home. The game turned into a real treat for fans who had been hoping for an exciting finish.

Arozarena opened the ninth with a double into the left side of the field, then moved to third on a deep fly ball from Dominik Canzone. The opponent intentionally walked Julio Rodriguez to put pressure on Raleigh, but he handled the situation by sending the ball toward first base. Royce Lewis made the catch and stepped on the base, but the throw home was late—Arozarena was able to touch the plate and score the winning run. It was his third earned run of the game, and he reached base three times in total.

The Mariners got off to a strong start, scoring two runs in the first inning. Rodriguez hit a single with the bases loaded, and Mitch Garver drew a walk. In the second inning, Arozarena added a solo home run, extending the lead to 3-0. But the Twins wouldn’t go away: Luke Kiehl hit a solo homer in the fifth, and Trevor Larnach followed with one in the sixth to cut the gap. In the seventh inning, Brooks Lee tied it up after a groundout by Victor Canzone.

Seattle pitcher Logan Gilbert turned in a strong performance, allowing just three earned runs on five hits over seven innings with six strikeouts. In the bullpen, Gabe Speier stood out after covering two-thirds of an inning; then Andres Munoz came out of the bullpen, and he was the one who earned the win. For Munoz, it was his fourth victory of the season.

It’s worth explaining that a “walk-off” is when the winning run is scored in the final inning and the opposing team no longer has a chance to respond. An “intentional walk” is a deliberate pass given to a batter to set up a matchup against a more favorable pitcher or to force an out on the bases. In this case, it didn’t work.

Among the less obvious takeaways: despite the loss, the Twins showed fight, and Gilbert’s performance reinforces his status as one of the most reliable pitchers on the Mariners. It’s also important to note that Arozarena played a key role by scoring three of the team’s four runs—his aggressive home run trot in the ninth inning is what ultimately decided the outcome. According to Sports.MyNorthwest, Sunday’s series finale will feature Minnesota’s starting pitcher as Ty Bradly (9-4, 3.65 ERA), while Seattle’s starter will be George Kirby (8-9, 3.98).

This win matters for the Mariners in terms of keeping their playoff chase alive, because every game at the end of the regular season carries enormous weight. The team has already shown it knows how to finish off opponents in the late innings—those moments are exactly what separates successful clubs. The Twins, for their part, showed they can come back from any deficit, but they simply came up a little short of sealing the victory—just missing a crucial pitch by the decisive margin.

Blue Angels airshow canceled in Seattle: weather proved stronger than naval aviation

On Saturday, residents and visitors in Seattle who gathered along the shores of Lake Washington for the iconic Seafair air show didn’t get to see the main stars of the celebration—the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels aerial demonstration team. The organizers decided to cancel the performance because of wind that intensified by evening and rose above the allowable limits for performing advanced aerobatic maneuvers. As quoted in a statement from Seafair president and CEO Emily Cantrell by KOMO News, the organizers tracked the wind throughout the day. Even though five other aviation groups were able to complete their programs in calmer conditions, the forecast offered little hope of improvement. “For the sake of safety, we made the decision to cancel Saturday’s Blue Angels performance,” Cantrell said. “We’re confident that, according to the current forecast, the team will perform on Sunday.”

This is a rare case where weather conditions end up stronger than the capabilities of some of the world’s most famous aerobatic teams. The Blue Angels fly F/A-18 Hornet jet fighters and carry out maneuvers in which g-forces can reach several g, while the aircraft close in to within just a few meters. In these conditions, even a small change in wind speed and direction can become critical: wind shear near the ground or gusts during an approach for a maneuver can disrupt the precise flight path and create a threat to both pilots and spectators. That’s why each aviation team has strict operational limits, and exceeding the wind threshold automatically means a no-fly order, no matter how spectacular the number may be.

Seafair is marking its 77th season this year, and it was expected to draw about 180,000 people over three days. They planned to gather both at the special wooden barrier on Lake Washington, which serves as a natural boundary for races and shows, and at Geneeese Park, where the main festival grounds are located. Organizers emphasized that the Saturday program still went on: spectators saw boat races, performances from other aviation groups, and the festival’s on-site activities. For those who came to the Jet Blast Bash event at the Museum of Flight, rain checks were available—tickets can be used on Sunday. But the biggest disappointment of the day was still the absence of the Blue Angels, because the team is seen as a symbol of Seafair and the event’s calling card, drawing thousands of viewers along the lake’s shoreline.

The decision to cancel Saturday’s performance is coming amid heightened attention to safety issues. After the recent shooting at the Bite of Seattle festival that resulted in the death of a person, Seafair organizers and the Seattle Police Department are placing special emphasis on safety measures this year. Security services, screening checkpoints, and medical teams are operating in an enhanced mode, and coordination with city authorities allows for rapid response to any incident. In that sense, canceling the air show due to wind is a logical extension of the same philosophy: keeping people safe always matters more than spectacle—even when it’s a milestone celebration.

From a meteorological standpoint, the situation in Seattle over these weekend conditions is typical of summer: during the day, the lake heats unevenly, and localized air currents form over the water that can strengthen toward evening. Forecasters warned of gusts, and because the organizers had access to weather radar data and ground stations, they could monitor the deterioration in real time. And that’s exactly what happened: if the conditions in the morning and through mid-day allowed flying, by evening the gusts reached the threshold beyond which the Blue Angels’ pilots are not allowed to take risks. It’s telling that the other show participants—likely less dependent on high-speed precision aerobatics—were able to perform earlier, which only confirms how strict the requirements are for jet aircraft.

Despite the disappointment, organizers and pilots remain optimistic: Sunday’s forecast promises calmer weather, and there’s a good chance the Blue Angels will still show their famous “diamond” formation over Lake Washington. For many Seattle residents, this is a family tradition that has lasted for more than seven decades, and missing a single day is unlikely to ruin the overall impression of the festival. In the end, this episode is a reminder that even the most sophisticated machines and the most experienced pilots remain part of nature—and sometimes it’s better to give way to the elements than provoke a dangerous dialogue with them.

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