Madison Park Times February 2026 by Pacific Publishing Company

FEBRUARY 2026

Madison Park Times

Madison Indivisible

The Madison Chapter of Indivisible is gearing up for No Kings 3 on March 28. The No Kings protest organized by the Madison chapter of Indivisible continues to increase in number of participants.

Public outcry at the abuse of ICE and the threats to due process and the rule of law continues to enlarge locally.

Weekly gatherings (Wednesdays 3-4:00) in Madison Park on the corner by the Wells Fargo sign are open

to all residents to support Justice and the Constitution. We Stand Strong on Madison Street for the rule of law, due process and Democracy. Our community has compassion for tragic events happening to citizens in Minneapolis.

Standing together in unity for justice and decency is an opportunity we all value. We are all in this together.

COURTESY SUSAN SULLIVAN

Volunteers Needed for Seattle/King County Clinic

County Clinic

Registration is now open for volunteers to support Seattle/King County Clinic, a four-day free health clinic returning to Seattle Center April 23–26, 2026. The state’s largest free clinic provides essential healthcare to uninsured and underinsured individuals across Washington. Organizers are calling for dental, vision, medical, and social work

professionals, along with interpreters and general support volunteers, to join this remarkable effort.

“Each year, I am inspired by the commitment of our community to ensure people who are underserved receive essential care,” said Julia Colson, Seattle/King County Clinic Project Executive. “From dental extractions and diagnostic medical services to eye exams and prescription eyeglasses, the impact of this work is profound, improving lives and bringing hope to those who need it most.”

“In the early days of the Clinic, it was widely assumed that the demand for this event would be temporary. That was more than 12 years ago. Today, deep cuts to the healthcare safety net threaten even those who are stably housed and employed,”

explained Christine Lindquist, Executive Director of the Washington Healthcare Access Alliance. “We expect a dramatic increase in the need for free healthcare in 2026, and Seattle/King County Clinic will be a beacon of care for thousands of patients who have no other option. This is an opportunity not only for patients, but for everyone who wants to contribute to accessible healthcare. Helping make this event possible is a powerful way to connect across barriers and show care for your community.”

“It provides not only healthcare but also a safe space where patients, many of whom face language barriers or financial struggles, feel supported and heard. The staff and volunteers genuinely care about the wellbeing of patients, fostering trust and making

people feel comfortable.” said 2025 Clinic volunteer Hayat M. Volunteer registration is now open at seattlecenter.org/volunteers. The Clinic’s capacity to serve patients depends on volunteer participation, with a particular need for volunteers to sign up for morning shifts as well as shifts at any time on Thursday & Sunday. For more information, visit seattlecenter. org/skcclinic or call 206-684-7200. Help change lives by joining Seattle/King County Clinic - where care, compassion, and community come together.

AUSTON JAMES

Seattle/King

PHOTOS

Are Bunkers Still a Thing? Apparently, Yes.

Global headlines have been a bit dire lately (though some of this might be due to my choice of social media). So when planning this month’s preparedness column, I idly wondered, “Are bunkers still a thing?”

Dana Armstrong Emergency Prep

I’m not thinking that bunkers are a sensible choice for preparedness. For one thing, they’re a largely impractical use of funds, since they are expensive and not particularly appealing for day-to-day living. And building one would be very disruptive. However, I do find the idea of bunkers fascinating. Maybe you will, too.

WHAT MAKES A BUNKER A BUNKER

Before I dive into what I learned about current bunker building—a quick detour: What exactly is a bunker? To my mind, it’s any structure you’d hang out in to try to survive longer in the event that things go terribly wrong. Think unrest, bombing, or even a severe storm.

The most common components of a bunker include:

Reinforced walls (often concrete or metal)

• A place to sleep

• Storage for food, water, and other goods

• A power generator (sometimes a backup one, as well)

• A septic system (or other way to dispose of waste)

• And, for more serious bunkers, an air filtration system. The most hardcore systems are called NBC (Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical) systems.

BUNKERS—WHEN SURVIVAL GETS EXPENSIVE

Now that you know what goes into a bunker, the next question is obvious: who’s building them?

“a non-billionaire can get started with one-for a cost”

A December 2023 Wired article, “Inside Mark Zuckerberg’s Top-Secret Hawaii Compound,” discusses a large bunker on mysterious property being built by the Meta CEO and his wife on Hawaii’s Kauai. Per planning documents viewed by Wired, “the two central mansions will be joined by a tunnel that branches off into a 5,000-square-foot underground shelter, featuring living space, a mechanical room, and an escape hatch that can be accessed via a ladder.” The ranch itself will reportedly have its own energy and food. And all workers have been bound by strict NDAs, the article says.

While bunkers are primarily a project for the wealthy (unless you happen to have a large plot of land, loads of time,

your own construction equipment, and tons of know-how), a non-billionaire can get started with one—for a cost. Atlas Survival Shelters is one of the more reputable companies in the currently thriving “shelter” business. Its solutions range from simple tornado shelters to milliondollar bomb shelters. The company’s lowest shelter comes in at $20,000, per “The Panic Industry Boom,” a NYT Magazine article from April 10, 2025.

Atlas’ website features luxury “Platinum” bunker setups (which can include add-ons like a “Fort Knox Vault Door” or an escape tunnel) along with its “Nado” line of catchily named bunkers. Atlas’ GarNado, for instance, can be installed “under the driveway with the hatch inside the garage door hidden from view” or in a backyard. While the WineNado is designed to be hidden underneath the kitchen counter and can either serve as a standard wine cellar or be outfitted with the NBC air filtration system mentioned above. Atlas’ site includes floor plans for a whopping 45 different bunker layouts.

Another company mentioned in the NYT article, SAFE, a specialist in “Fortified Estates & Yachts, Private Bunkers & Panic Rooms, and Integrated Medical Preparedness,” among other things, designed a compound including a moat that could be set on fire using cannons, if needed, per NYT Magazine. SAFE has at least one bunker project costing over $100 million, the article said.

U.S. GOVERNMENT BUNKERS— NEW AND OLD

If private bunkers seem extravagant, government bunkers are a different animal altogether. Ordered to be built under the White House by Franklin Roosevelt in 1941 following Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor, there was “no public acknowledgment made of there being a bomb shelter under construction,” historian Bill Seale was quoted as saying in a January 20, 2026 Newsweek article. The resulting shelter included an operations center, beds, supplies, and secure communications, and was described by sources as a “self-contained unit with separate backups for power, water and air filtration.”

Per the article, the original bunker was “dismantled” during a recent East Wing demolition, and “a classified replacement using modern technology” is underway.

In the absence of an onsite bunker, U.S. administration members can head to Colorado’s Cheyenne Mountain Complex, “among the only publicly known hardened bunkers functioning as a Cold War–era continuity- of-government site designed to keep the president and top officials alive during a nuclear attack,” Newsweek said, adding that Cheyenne “operates as a self- contained underground city with its own power, water, food supplies, and protected command-and- control systems to ensure the government can continue operating even after a catastrophic strike.”

AND A BUNKER IN OUR OWN BACKYARD

Last year, a Sprague, WA-based missile silo was listed on Zillow for $1.4 million.

Per a June 17, 2025 Seattle Times article, the decommissioned underground silo

(built in 1950) “boasts roughly 12,500 square feet with a nearly 2,000-squarefoot living area buried under the 24.5acre lot.” Including underground bedrooms, a kitchen, and an elevator for access, the space was outfitted by the last resident, who reportedly wasn’t a prepper but liked the idea of living underground. For fascinating pictures of the property, check out washingtonmissilebase.com.

Sadly, the Zillow listing has been removed, and the property is now off the market. I couldn’t find out what has happened since, but I like to think that someone bought the property in secret and plans a vast underground complex, complete with a full hydroponic garden and cinema.

For most of us, though, emergency preparedness will look less like secret cinemas and more like a bag or crate carrying emergency water, food, flashlights and maybe a phone adapter. And I hope will include knowing which neighbors might need a hand, and being prepared enough to lend it.

As always, my column is part of Madison Park Emergency Hub’s outreach effort. The Hub is a neighbor-run organization dedicated to helping neighbors help each other after a disaster. To be added to our mailing list, please contact us at madparkhub@gmail.com.

Lets Talk About Weight

By Michele McCauley

So you’ve done some goal setting, and it’s about weight loss. You read last month’s column and you have a specific, measurable, achievable (realistic), goal. You’ve planned out what actions you need to take. You know how you’re going to get there and when. You’ve been counting calories diligently, yet you seem to have plateaued. Not only that, it seems to get harder and harder to stay on the plan. But it’s just a matter of doubling down on your determination, right?

Actually, the science says otherwise. And what it says explains a lot. I spoke with a registered dietician in Madrona, Katy Lane (katylanenutrition.com). Here’s what she had to say about calorie restriction and weight loss. “Dieting increases your risk of weight gain,” she says. What?! “Biologically, your body interprets dieting as

Well that’s a mouthful. Let’s look at what that means. Let’s say you finally reach your goal weight. Your suffering is over, right? You can go back to some of the favorite foods you gave up, you don’t have to be hungry all the time, you can eat until you’re full. Except there have been changes in how your body tells you when you’re hungry and when you’re full. It’s as if the hormones that regulate your sense of hunger and satiety have been reset to help you eat more. And they stay at these starvation settings for at least a year once you stop dieting. Wow. That explains a lot about how people gain back all the weight and then some!! This is what happens if you manage to stick with your plan of calorie restriction until you reach your goal.

Lane also described what happens when you fail to maintain your program of calorie restriction. “You may binge on ‘forbidden

for success after all? Rather than give up entirely, what if we set weight aside and look at why people have this kind of goal? Are you trying to be healthier? Trying to be more fit? Do you want to be happier with your body? What are some things–that don’t involve dieting–that you can do to support these goals? Can you find ways to make vegetables delicious? Maybe you want to consult with Ms. Lane about other ways to enjoy healthy eating? Maybe you can be more active–is there something you love doing, AND it gets you moving? Yes, it could be something at the gym, but it could also be gardening or salsa dancing, tennis or walking with a friend. The possibilities are endless. Finally, can you confront the diet culture that says you don’t deserve to enjoy being in your body until it’s thin enough? Can you give up the idea that fitness activities are the punishment for last

starvation and shifts into survival mode. Your metabolism slows down and cravings for food increase.” OK, so you’re not just making it up. It really is getting harder to stick with the diet. Lane continues: “dieting results in increased ghrelin (an appetite-stimulating hormone), and reduced levels of satiety hormones like leptin, peptide YY (PYY) and cholecystokinin (CCK). These changes persist for at least 1 year after weight loss and collectively increase hunger while reducing satiety.”

foods,’ and then resolve to try harder to restrict yourself. This pattern usually results in weight gain, as your body has adapted to the famine and resists weight loss in order to survive".

Both of these situations are examples of what she says is called “Adaptive thermogenesis, a decrease in resting metabolic rate, making it harder to maintain weight loss.”

So, maybe that weight loss goal is not so realistic? Maybe you can’t break it down into concrete actions

night’s slice of cheesecake? Imagine a life where fitness is about the joy of moving with ease. Or about being strong enough for your life’s daily tasks, as well as its occasional challenges. Or about joining friends for a hike or a bike ride ... Imagine … Liberating, isn’t it?

Michele McCauley is a personal trainer at Resilient Body Fitness. She would love to be your Best Friend in Fitness! E-mail your fitness questions to bff@ ResilientBody.Fitness

The Agency has proudly arrived in Madison Park.

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I invite you to stop by and meet our hand-selected professionals, who are setting a new standard of excellence in Madison Park. 4000 E Madison St Suite 105 206-453-5109 theagencyre.com

3,000

The Power of Blueberries for Washington and You

By Marie Kurka Brown

Blueberries may be Washington’s quiet powerhouse — leading the nation in production, expanding into global markets, and thriving in backyard gardens across the state. As we step into February, it’s the perfect time to plan propagation strategies that support both personal harvests and community education.

Whether you're working with hardwood cuttings, layering techniques, or container starts, propagating blueberries offers a hands on way to connect science based gardening with seasonal stewardship. In this article, we’ll explore propagation methods, timing, and tips for success — all rooted in the joy of growing something that nourishes both soil and story. And maybe a little history along the way.

VISUAL TIMELINE – BLUEBERRY PROPAGATION (WESTERN WA)

Feb–Mar

Take hardwood cuttings. Use healthy, dormant stems; prep containers.

Apr–May

Monitor root development. Keep moist, shaded; check for callusing

Jun–Jul

Transplant rooted cuttings. Harden off; move to larger pots or beds.

Aug–Sep

Layering method (optional). Bend low branches, bury tips for rooting.

Oct–Nov Mulch and protect young plants. Prep for winter; monitor drainage.

SOIL TESTING AND WATER WISDOM

Blueberries are famously picky

about their soil — but once you meet their needs, they reward you with vigorous growth and abundant fruit. They can be grown in your garden, in raised beds, pots, and even in that old wheelbarrow you’re not sure what to do with.

Blueberries rely on acidic conditions to absorb nutrients like iron, magnesium, and manganese. The ideal pH range is 4.5 to 5.5.

If you're not sure about your soil, have it tested. A soil test helps determine pH and nutrient levels, and you can have it done through a university or County Extension office. Requirements vary, so it’s best to call ahead.

Blueberries thrive in the Pacific Northwest’s moist climate, but they still need well draining soil and consistent watering. During fruiting season, water deeply — up to 4 inches per week — and mulch to retain moisture. Raised beds and mounded soil help balance hydration with healthy root aeration.

WASHINGTON’S BLUEBERRY INDUSTRY: A STORY OF GROWTH, EXPORT, AND OPPORTUNITY

Washington remains the top producer of blueberries in the United States.

Key Highlights

• 2023 Harvest: 68,800 tons of blueberries

• 2024 Production: 207 million pounds — up 49% from 2023

• Market Value: $205 million — up 51% from 2023

• Washington leads the nation, followed by Oregon and Georgia

• Blueberries remain one of Washington’s top five fruit exports

Global Reach

• 96% of fresh blueberries exported to Canada

• New promotional campaigns in South Korea, India, Thailand,

and Malaysia

• India reduced tariffs on U.S. blueberries, opening doors for frozen exports in 2025–26

Domestic Market Push

• Retailers like Safeway and Kroger will feature Washington blueberries during the July–August peak

• Only 49% of U.S. households consume blueberries — a major opportunity for outreach

HEALTH BENEFITS OF BLUEBERRIES

Blueberries are a nutritional powerhouse — rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and compounds that support heart, brain, and metabolic health. Their benefits make them a perfect crop for both personal wellness and Master Gardener outreach.

Brain Function & Memory

• May improve memory and cognitive function

• High anthocyanin levels help reduce oxidative stress in the brain

Heart Health

• Can help lower blood pressure

• Improve blood vessel function

• Reduce cholesterol oxidation

Blood Sugar & Diabetes Support

• Improve insulin sensitivity

• Help regulate blood sugar levels

Cancer & Aging Protection

• Antioxidants help reduce DNA damage

• May lower cancer risk and slow aging

• For me, this is personal — I’m a cancer survivor, and I grow blueberries for all the right reasons.

Exercise Recovery

• Reduce muscle damage and inflammation

Digestive Health

• One cup provides about 13% of daily fiber

Antioxidant Power

• Among the highest antioxidant fruits

Nutritional Snapshot (per 1 cup)

• Calories: ~84

• Vitamin C: 25% DV

• Vitamin K: 24% DV

• Fiber: 13% DV

• Water content: ~85%

WHY BLUEBERRY PROPAGATION

MATTERS IN WASHINGTON

• Top Producing State: Washington leads the U.S. in blueberry production

• Global Reach: Expanding export markets

• Local Opportunity: Only 49% of U.S. households consume blueberries

• Seasonal Fit: February and March are ideal for prepping hardwood cuttings

CLOSING REFLECTION: ONE CUTTING AT A TIME

For me, growing blueberries is more than a seasonal task — it’s a personal journey. As a cancer survivor, I’ve come to cherish the rhythm of gardening: the movement, the meditation, the quiet joy of tending something that gives back.

With fourteen bushes thriving in my garden, I freeze, share, and savor blueberries all year long. They nourish my body, yes — but they also nourish my spirit. I also steward a nonprofit garden, where friends facing food insecurity are invited to pick what they need, blueberries included.

Whether you're planting in the ground, a pot, or an old wheelbarrow, propagation is a way to root yourself in possibility. It’s a small act with big impact — supporting food security, community

education, and personal stewardship, one cutting at a time.

References

• Washington State Department of Agriculture — Blueberry Industry Overview

• U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council — Health Benefits

• WSU Extension — Growing Blueberries in Washington

• USDA Agricultural Research Service — Nutritional Profile

• American Society for Horticultural Science — Soil pH and Blueberry Growth

• Master Gardener Foundation of Washington State — Science Based Gardening Resources

One Unpretentious Plant For A Starring Role

By Steve Lorton

There are many reasons to grow plants. Roses are for their flowers. Conifers, block views, provide background and anchor the garden. Annuals fill pots and planting beds with summer color. You might be looking for bloom, or strong foliage, a sculptural form or decorative fruits. The offerings are immense. A few plants do it all and these are often grown as garden focal points. The small statuesque tree you see here is a Cotoneaster lacteus. It grows next to a sidewalk and entry way, welcoming visitors, setting the house back visually from the street, providing a sense of enclosure and sustaining year

around interest. Come spring, this Cotoneaster blooms with clusters of tiny white to pale pink flowers, it flaunts handsome 2-inch evergreen leaves year around, its handsome black-barked limbs and branches rival anything in an art gallery. In late autumn it is filled with clusters of orange-red berries that hang on through the holidays and well into February, even March. Added to all this, birds love the fruit.

From a genus of 50 species, Cotoneasters come from China, the Himalayas, and Northern India. They are perfectly suited to our climate. Most are evergreen, a few are deciduous. They come in all sizes. Cotoneaster dammeri is prostate, an excellent evergreen

ground cover or plant to spill over and cascade down a retaining wall.

But of all the Cotoneasters, the prize is C. lacteus. It is not hard to find, it is not rare or expensive and it’s easy to grow. Give it a spot with strong direct light, rich garden soil with good drainage and you’ll have a plant that will serve you and your garden for decades.

In time, this Cotoneaster will grow to a height of 10, maybe 15 feet, with an 8 to 10 foot spread. As it grows, select the main upright stems that you want to feature. Prune off side branches and shoots, leaving the top third of the plant leafy. A generous top dressing of compost, or a light feeding with 12-12-12 and ample summer water will assure good health and robust foliage, flowers and fruit. Fertilizing by the holidays makes it easy: Valentine’s Day, April Fools, May Day, and Memorial Day. Just be careful to err on the side of too little, rather than burn the plant with too much. Rake-up the soil around the planting area, cast the fertilizer, water it in.

A big part of the pleasure in siting and training a plant to be a sculptural statement is the constant attention, the staking, if necessary, the choices and process of directing the growth, the judicious pruning. It’s a kind of reoccurring religious ritual. It’s worth it.

Much of what we’re discussing here is choosing a single plant “to make a statement.” And the horticultural world is full of

pass it and find your self saying, “Well

Friends of Madison Park: Rolling in to February

As Friends of Madison Park prepares for a busy Spring and Summer of events, we roll into February with a few updates and expectations.

BINGO NIGHTS ARE CANCELLED Due to scheduling conflicts, Pioneer Hall needs to cancel the previously scheduled Bingo Nights for the foreseeable future. We will loop back if we can find the space and volunteers to make it happen elsewhere.

Neighborhood Meeting times will return to the hours of 7-8 p.m. at the Bathhouse. Our Tuesday night April meeting is moving from April 14 to April 21 because of schools’ Spring Break schedules. Meetings this year are quarterly - April 21, July 14 and October 13.

McGilvra Elementary School tours continue Friday February 6 at 8:30. Register at www.mcgilvrapta.org/visit.

McGilvra’s Restaurant will always celebrate St Patrick’s Day with music and specials. More details TBD. But added ST. PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVITIES are postponed to March 2027.

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO!

Little Beats has 2 more Music Concerts coming in February and March. First Saturdays of the monthfrom 11-12 at Pioneer Hall. At the bargain price of $5/person, come enjoy Highlight Quartet February 7 and Harmonica Pocket March 7! Doors open at 10:45.

Mark Your Calendars NOW. Join Friends of Madison Park for a fun-filled Easter Egg Hunt on April 4th from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at Madison Park Playground! Enjoy games, food, crafts,

face painting, music, and a special visit from the Easter Bunny. Egg hunting begins at 10:20 AM sharp—don’t be late!

Ready to Get Involved in your Neighborhood? We are hoping to organize a Neighborhood YARD SALE in May. We have the template of how to make it happen but need a handful of volunteers to pull it together. If you are interested in helping, please reach out to volunteer@friendsofmadisonpark. com.

Know of a hidden gem garden to be included in the Garden Tour on June 13th? Want to be a volunteer for the Garden Tour and get free tickets? Please let us know at events@friendsofmadisonpark.com.

Planning is underway for the Music in the Park Series for August 2026. If you know a band that should apply, please have them go to our Music in the Park page. Deadline for applying is March 15th.

In case you missed our quarterly Neighborhood meeting on Tuesday, January 13th, a few items to catch you up. Friends of Madison Park welcomes 3 new members to the Board- Meg Bartley, Suzy Benson and Nancy Beacham. Thanks to each of you for pitching in! FOMP’s Board also passed revisions to our Bylaws and presented a proposed 2026 Budget. You can find these on our ABOUT page at www. friendsofmadisonpark.com.

You can also find on the website’s FARMERS MARKET page the results of the Seattle Farmer’s Market survey of the community. Plan on the return of the market this June through September 2026. https://www.friendsofmadisonpark.com/farmers-market.

good candidates. The thing about Cotoneaster lacteus is that it’s been a garden aristocrat for so long, it’s so undemanding, steadfast and unpretentious, that one day you’ll

there you still are, wonderful friend… center stage, still a star.”

MARY HENRY

USPS Postmark Changes Could Cost Taxpayers and Create Deadline Confusion

Asignificant change in how the USPS dates mail, could have wide ranging consequences for taxpayers, and voters. The change alters what a postmark date represents and may expose people to penalties, rejected filings, or missed deadlines if they are unaware of the shift.

For decades, Americans have relied on postmarks as proof of when an item was mailed. Under long standing expectations, if a taxpayer dropped a return or payment into a mailbox on or before a deadline, the postmark generally reflected that same date, protecting the sender from late filing consequences. A recent update clarifies that the date printed on a postmark now reflects when mail is first processed by an automated sorting facility, not when it is deposited. In practice, this means a tax return placed in a blue collection box or handed to a postal carrier on Tax Day may not be postmarked until days later, once it reaches a regional processing center. For rules such as the IRS’ mailbox rule, which treats a return as timely if it bears a due date postmark, the shift could trigger penalties and interest even when a taxpayer mailed the form on time.

One tax expert noted that the change undermines the reliability of the mailbox rule that taxpayers have depended on for decades, warning that mailed returns may now receive postmark dates that cause them to be deemed late by authorities.

DEADLINES BEYOND TAXES

The implications extend well beyond tax filings. Time sensitive communications such as legal documents, government benefit notices, responses to administrative deadlines, and mail in ballots often depend on a postmark date. In recent elections,

absentee ballot acceptance in some states has hinged on the date stamped on the envelope. With mail increasingly routed through centralized regional facilities, voters may face greater uncertainty about whether ballots will be accepted based on postmarks. Voting rights advocates have raised concerns that the gap between when a ballot is mailed and when it is postmarked could lead to valid votes being rejected or create confusion in close races. Election officials encourage voters to mail ballots early or use secure drop off options when available.

Renters and others with documents tied to housing or benefit deadlines may also be affected. In some cases, a late postmark could influence eligibility, rental status, or legal rights even if the document entered the mail system on time.

WHY THE CHANGE HAPPENED

USPS officials say the update was intended to clarify long standing practices and better reflect how mail moves through the system. Historically, postmarks were applied at or close to point of origin. As USPS has consolidated processing centers and streamlined transportation routes under its ‘Delivering for America’ plan, mail often travels significant distances before being sorted and stamped.

A USPS spokesperson has said the rules around postmarking itself have not changed, but that operational realities make it more likely for a postmark date to lag behind the day an item was mailed. Critics argue that regardless of intent, the impact on customers is real, particularly for those facing non-negotiable deadlines.

WHAT CONSUMERS CAN DO

Postal and tax experts recommend several steps to reduce risk under the new system:

• Request a manual postmark at a local post office counter. USPS will apply a local postmark on items presented in person at no extra charge.

• Use certified or registered mail, which provides additional proof tied to a specific date.

• Mail items well before deadlines to reduce reliance on processing timing.

• Use electronic filing or submission when possible. For tax returns, e-filing provides immediate confirmation and removes dependence on postmarks entirely.

BROADER IMPACT ON TAXPAYERS

Tax professionals warn that the updated postmark approach could result in unexpected costs for individuals and businesses that rely on mailed returns or payments. Even when mailed on time, documents may be considered late triggering penalties or interest.

Mail based deadlines also affect charitable contribution deductions, responses to IRS notices, and filings with state or local taxing authorities. In many cases, the postmark serves as primary evidence that a requirement was met on time. The new emphasis on processing date complicates that assumption.

LOOKING AHEAD

As USPS continues modernizing its processing network, uncertainty around postmark timing may persist. Customers are encouraged to adjust mailing habits and remain informed about how the system now works. For Americans dealing with firm deadlines, the postmark change is more than a technical detail. It represents a potential financial and administrative risk that may reshape how people approach mailed communications in 2026 and beyond.

Library Appear Across Seattle

This Valentine’s season, Seattle residents are being invited to share their appreciation for one of the city’s most beloved public institutions. The Seattle Public Library Foundation has launched Love Letters to the Library, a citywide campaign encouraging people to write notes about why they love The Seattle Public Library. Many familiar neighborhood spots are participating.

Through the campaign, festive collection boxes and cards designed by local artist Nina Painter have been placed at select bookstores, cafes, breweries, and cultural spaces. Anyone can pick up a card, write or draw a message of appreciation, and drop it into a Love Letters box. The notes will be shared with library staff, displayed in library branches, and featured on the Foundation’s website and social media.

The campaign is meant to offer a simple and joyful way for community members to express gratitude for library workers and the wide range of services libraries provide. Love letters can be written by anyone, in any language, and may include drawings as well as written notes.

Longtime neighborhood businesses are helping host the

campaign, making it easy for residents to participate close to home. Ballard locations include popular independent bookstores and gathering spots, while downtown sites connect the campaign to some of the city’s most visited cultural destinations.

For those who are unable to visit a participating location or prefer to submit a message online, digital love letters can be sent through the Foundation’s website at SupportSPL.org/ LoveLetters. Participants may also choose to sign up for updates from the Foundation about ways to support and advocate for libraries, including alerts about speaking up for libraries to elected officials. Any personal information is kept separate from the messages and is not shared. By partnering with local businesses and cultural institutions, the Seattle Public Library Foundation hopes to reach people where they already spend time and to reinforce the role libraries play as welcoming, accessible spaces across the city. From early literacy and job search resources to quiet reading rooms and public programs, Seattle’s libraries continue to serve as essential neighborhood anchors. Love Letters to the Library will be collected throughout the Valentine’s season. Residents are encouraged to stop by a participating location, share a few kind words, and help show library staff that their work is valued throughout Seattle. More information and online submission options are available at SupportSPL.org/LoveLetters.

NEARBY PARTICIPATING LOCATIONS:

• Madison Books, 4118 E Madison St.

• Fuel Coffee & Books, 2300 24th Ave E

• Macrina Bakery & Café, 746 19th Ave E

• Fuel Coffee & Books, 610 19th Ave E

Staff Report

By Richard Carl Lehman

My wife Karen and I recently attended a friend’s 90th birthday celebration, an occasion that offered us the opportunity to discover meaningful insights about her life and career. The celebration was not only a tribute to her longevity but also a reflection on the extraordinary path she forged in the arts as a dancer and teacher. One of her first performances took place at the Pantages-Palamar Theater on 3rd Avenue, just south of Pine. During its heyday, the Palamar Theater was renowned for its vibrant blend of vaudeville acts and motion pictures. Among its memorable showings was “The Frogman,” a film that reportedly inspired some audience members to take up diving. The theater’s stage attracted celebrated performers such as Al Jolson, Buster Keaton, and Sophie Tucker. In 1936, the theater was renamed the Palomar, marking a new chapter in its history.

I recall attending a magician’s show at the Palamar with friends, sitting close to the stage for an immersive experience. In a moment of excitement, I shouted, “The left hand!” The magician responded to my outburst, though I suspect his reply was less than appreciative.

Theaters played a significant role in our formative years, with local favorites such as the Madrona, the Roycraft, and the Venetian on Capitol Hill. These venues typically showcased double features, upcoming attractions, and previews for major new releases, along with crowd-pleasing cartoons. Newsreels provided uncensored war updates, which we would later discuss at school with great interest. To draw in more audiences, theaters often held contests and special events, rewarding winners with gifts and complimentary tickets for future screenings.

Movie nights became communal affairs, uniting adults and children alike. Family nights fostered togetherness, while groups of pre-teens would secure seats together, with some venturing off to sections beyond the reach of the ushers and their flashlights. For just an extra twenty-five cents, a coveted loge seat could be enjoyed—an upgrade that held special meaning. It was rumored that couples who spent entire evenings in these seats became quite uncomfortable from too much necking during the long showings, making the ride back to Madison Park rather painful.

Downtown theaters, like the Colonial (which was demolished in the early 1970s), offered remarkable deals—three movies for just nine cents. Shoppers could check their packages at the door, where they were stored in a closet. Smokers were relegated to the second floor near the restrooms, as fire codes prohibited smoking on the main floor. For just nine cents, a triple feature of Hop Along Cassidy, the Lone Ranger, and Whip Wilson provided unbeatable entertainment.

My grandfather, Walter, introduced me to the Telenews

That’s Entertainment

Theater. Here, wartime newsreels left lasting impressions. The Capitol Theatre, equipped with a Kimball two-manual, eleven-rank organ, was once part of the Telenews circuit and was renamed Telenews Theatre on September 19, 1941, screening newsreels. It reverted to the Capitol Theatre on January 24, 1950, returning to mainstream films such as Bing Crosby and Bob Hope in “Road to Rio” and Randolph Scott in “Albuquerque.” Over time, these grand movie houses and newsreel theaters faded into history.

The largest theater in the city was the Orpheum, which was situated north of the city center. It attracted major performers, including Nat King Cole, who once graced its stage. Balcony tickets for events at the Orpheum were priced at $12.50—a memory I cherish, as I still have a ticket stub from one of those unforgettable nights.

During my single years, I reconnected with a friend who had previously ventured back east in pursuit of fame and fortune as a dancer, only to return to Seattle. We decided to catch up over dinner, and afterward, visited a restaurant that I was in the process of purchasing with two other friends. While we were

there, we played a few games of pool together.

As our evening progressed, another young woman approached and asked to join our pool game. It turned out that both women shared a common bond—they were dancers. Before leaving, our new acquaintance gifted us two tickets to her upcoming perfor-

“For just nine cents, a triple feature of Hop Along Cassidy, the Lone Ranger, and Whip Wilson provided unbeatable entertainment.”

mance: two coveted VIP seats near the stage at the Burlesque and Comedy show at the Rivoli Theater.

We finished our night with more rounds of pool, and, to our delight, the Burlesque group joined us for the remainder of the evening, making it a memorable gathering filled with laughter and camaraderie.

The Rivoli was located on 2nd

just south of a bustling liquor store, where we enjoyed the show, a far departure from the innocence of the Lone Ranger we saw there as kids. The theater also showed films in a similar vein before closing in the late 1950s. The Green Parrot was another theater known for its adult-oriented content.

Other prominent venues included the Paramount and the Fifth Avenue theaters, both of which continue to host live performances to this day. Their enduring legacy reflects the vibrant cultural scene that has persisted in the area.

For residents of Madison Park and the surrounding neighborhoods, the ultimate movie-going experience was the Sunset Drive-in. The journey itself was memorable, beginning with a drive down Lake Washington Boulevard, ascending the hill just past Leschi, merging onto I-90, and heading east. After passing Eastgate, moviegoers would finally arrive at the drivein. There, it was common to mix a spirit of choice into a movie Coke and enjoy the convenience of being near the restrooms.

Sadly, all the drive-in theaters—including the BelKirk, the Midway, and the Duwamish—have disappeared.

The Duwamish, in particular, found new life for a time by hosting swap meets and various community events. Nevertheless, the rise of television marked the end of the drive-in era, bringing about significant changes in how people experienced entertainment.

ADVENTURES BEYOND THE SCREEN

As teenagers, we watched “Rocket Ship XM” at the Coliseum. The booming sound during the liftoff scene left a strong impression and inspired us to experiment with fireworks. I purchased supplies in Starbuck, central Washington, and, with my friends, we filled a large cardboard tube with powder from firecrackers and flares. We even added wings to our homemade rocket. We launched it from a neighbor’s porch, reassured by his mom’s trust in our careful planning. We aimed it over Lake Washington, hoping it might reach Shoreline or Kirkland. However, after lighting the fuse, a muffled explosion left everything coated in silver powder. Undeterred, we returned to Starbuck and invested in a larger assortment with the hope of greater success.

Our next attempt involved packing rocket power into a six-inch lead pipe with a long fuse. In a grassy field west of Edgewater, we set up our device one quiet evening. The fuse burned much faster than expected, prompting a hasty retreat. The resulting explosion was enormous, scattering debris and parting the grass. We watched from an old garage as a crowd gathered, waiting until it dispersed before we snuck away. That unforgettable bang marked the end of our rocketry escapades—no more, we agreed.

A NEW KIND OF BANG: ARMY LIFE AND EXPLOSIVES

As fate would have it, I was drafted and stationed with the 84th Combat Engineers, a unit with a distinguished World War II history. Our days were spent constructing Bailey Bridges—ingenious structures designed for quick assembly in challenging conditions. Once these bridges were in place, we would carefully set explosives in critical areas, wiring them to timers and preparing for controlled demolitions. When the moment arrived, everything would be completely obliterated in a powerful blast. All I can say is that it served me right; compared to our childhood experiments, this was truly a bang to end all bangs.

Looking back, Madison Park was more than just a place—it was a community where friendships grew, adventures unfolded, and memories were made. The theaters, drive-ins, and sunlit evenings by the lake shaped a childhood rich in laughter and discovery. Growing up in Madison Park meant being part of something special, a neighborhood that held both the magic of youth and the warmth of belonging. It's a sentiment that endures, reminding us that those formative years in Madison Park will always be cherished.

Park

Real estate

2025 in Review and What to Expect in 2026

by Laura Halliday Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty

Madison Park remains one of Seattle’s most treasured enclaves, with its blend of elegant estates, tree-lined streets, and easy walkability. After nearly three decades of working in Seattle real estate, I’ve learned that the numbers only tell part of the story. As we look back on 2025 and ahead to 2026, I hope to offer clarity and context in an evolving market. Here’s what shaped the Madison Park market last year and what we can reasonably expect in 2026.

MADISON PARK MARKET AT A GLANCE

Within the 0.75-mile radius surrounding the Red Apple Market, our benchmark for Madison Park’s core, the 2025 real estate market reflected steady activity, selective buyer behavior, and a preference for top-quality homes. Single-family residences recorded 54 sales, with prices ranging from a low of $1,850,000 to a high of $9,375,000, while the condominium

market saw 40 sales, spanning from $405,000 to $3,825,000. Across both property types, the combined average days on market came in at 74 days, underscoring a measured yet healthy pace of absorption.

Local appraiser Vince Healy of Clearpoint Appraisal summarized the dynamic well:

“The median price jumped last year, but not really the average… The increase in the median contract price suggests

greater buyer interest in the larger, better-quality properties.”

This trend was visible throughout Madison Park in 2025. Move-inready homes with thoughtful updates

continued to draw strong interest, homes requiring major renovation or with functional trade-offs saw more days on market and occasional price adjustments, and buyers, holding steady at higher mortgage rates, were more discerning and less likely to stretch for homes that lacked size, views, layout flexibility, or finish quality.

KING COUNTY CONTEXT: A MARKET OF CAUTION AND PATIENCE

Zooming out, King County showed similar patterns of restraint and selectivity.

Healy noted: “Volume and prices were restrained… buyers have the headwinds of high prices AND higher interest, while sellers sat on current debt they do not want to move away from.”

Countywide trends included a 2% increase in median single-family sold price, lower overall sales volume compared to 2021, slight inventory growth but still historically low, price per square foot remaining essentially flat year-over-year, and list prices up about 2%, with contracts down about 1%.

MORTGAGE RATES: STILL A KEY PLAYER

Mortgage rates averaged about 6.25% in 2025, down from 2023 peaks but far from the ultra-low rates many homeowners locked in earlier. Throughout the year, many buyers asked whether they should “wait for rates to drop.” The guidance from experts was consistent: that significant rate cuts are unlikely in the near term, prices are more likely to rise than fall, and waiting may reduce affordability rather than improve it. In short: Patience is wise. Waiting for the perfections is not.

Seattle

WHAT I EXPECT IN 2026

Several themes are emerging as we step into 2026.

• A gradual improvement in inventory, yet not enough to significantly shift the balance of power from seller to buyer

• Turn-key homes, modern layouts, and high-quality finishes commanding the most attention

• Steady or modestly fluctuating rates.

• A local market shaped by downsizers, upsizers, and those moving closer to community amenities or the waterfront.

FINAL THOUGHTS

As we move into 2026, my role is to help you navigate the nuances, whether that means understanding your home’s current value, preparing a property for market, or identifying opportunities that align with your long-term plans. I’m always here for a conversation, whether you’re making a move soon or simply staying informed.

If you’d like a personalized market analysis or guidance on buying or selling in 2026, I would be delighted to help.

Market Snapshot

Laura Halliday Founding Member &

Quarterly Market Snapshot

3 Tips for Selecting the Perfect Home

(Family Features) For those beginning the process of home buying, there are many factors to consider. Keep these ideas in mind as you conduct your search – whether it’s online or at a series of open houses.

CONSIDER FUTURE NEEDS

office area may be suitable for a small child’s room, or a sunroom may be converted to a laundry area down the road. Unfinished basements are also blank canvases that can be customized to meet your family’s wants and needs.

GET TO KNOW THE AREA

Quarterly Market Snapshot

laura.halliday@rsir.com

Q4 October 2025 - December 2025

Seattle Single-Family Homes

Q4 October 2025 - December 2025

Homes

2025 - December 2025

Quarterly Market Snapshot

Realogics Sotheby's International Realty 4031 E Madison Street Seattle, WA 98112

Because life is always evolving, it’s important to move into a home that has enough space for your family’s anticipated changes. While features and space are always prime considerations, don’t forget to, look into the area schools, day care options, parks and other kid-friendly amenities if you plan to grow your family in your next home.

LOOK FOR FLEXIBLE SPACES

The purchase of a home goes well beyond the property line. Be sure to examine the neighborhood in which the house is situated. From the condition of the neighbors’ houses to highway access and the proximity of necessities like grocery stores and gas stations, be sure to take every factor into account to help ensure you’re selecting the right location.

INTEREST RATES

Quarterly Market Snapshot

Q4 October 2025 - December 2025

number of properties that were sold in condominium market, the Seattle single-family significantly more sales. The months of supply months in Q4-2024 to 1.8 months in Q4increase in homes for sale creating a single-family homes for sale. Properties the Seattle market than in most others report, with homes spending an average market. Price growth remained flat, with year-over-year increase in the median sales price $995,000 in Q4-2024 to $1,000,000 in a 1.62% year-over-year increase in the square foot. Although more inventory was homes sold, with a 6.98% decrease from homes.

With over double the number of properties that were sold in the Seattle condominium market, the Seattle single-family market had significantly more sales. The months of supply increased from 1.2 months in Q4-2024 to 1.8 months in Q42025, with a 37.79% increase in homes for sale creating a market with 660 single-family homes for sale. Properties sold more quickly in the Seattle market than in most others analyzed in the report, with homes spending an average of 37 days on the market. Price growth remained flat, with a 0.5% year-over-year increase in the median sales price bringing it from $995,000 in Q4-2024 to $1,000,000 in Q4-2025. There was a 1.62% year-over-year increase in the average price per square foot. Although more inventory was available, fewer homes sold, with a 6.98% decrease from 1,189 to 1,106 homes.

Q4 October 2025 - December 2025

1,106 37 36 31 1,189

1,106 36 31 1,189

Seek homes that offer rooms with multiple functions. For example, an

Seattle Q4 Market Snapshot

One of the best ways to prepare yourself for your home-buying or selling journey is to stay informed of current market trends. Reach out to me today if you would like to receive a customized monthly market report with the neighborhoods of your choice via email. Let’s dig into this data together!

$1M

Find more tips to aid you in your home search at eLivingtoaday.com.

37 36 31 1,189

1,106 37 36 31

1,106

I am a Madison Park resident and a founding member of the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury office in our neighborhood. In 2025, I represented nearly $50 million in residential sales and have been honored for many years to serve as one of just 22 brokers worldwide selected to serve as an Ambassador for the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury brandrecognition rooted in consistent performance, professionalism, and trust.

If you are considering selling in 2026, I would welcome the opportunity to design a custom marketing plan for your home. Contact me for a confidential consultation.

Why Experience Matters in Today’s Real Estate Market

In a market this sophisticated, and with homes representing one

I bring over 20 years of residential real

experience, a UW Business School education, and a background as a former CPA. That expertise translates into strategic pricing, disciplined contract management, and marketing plans designed to maximize value - not leave money on the table.

Proven Results in 2025:

• Listing Broker for a San Juan Island waterfront estate sold for $5.25M - $250K over asking and closed in just 24 hours, despite prior days on market with two previous brokers.

• Listing Broker for a Medina view home sold for $5.5M - over 10% above asking with multiple offers. Strategically and professionally brought to market in just one week (including staging, exquisite photography and videography) to capture the end of summer weather so important to showcase this property at its best.

These are just two examples of my 2025 success. And these outcomes weren’t luck. They were the result of strategy, experience, and execution.

•

A Home-Buying Guide for Empty Nesters

The day a child leaves home can be bittersweet for parents. Although a son or daughter being successful and mature enough to move on to new opportunities can be a source of pride, parents typically lament the quiet that comes from empty rooms and a change to the daily routine they’d grown accustomed to when the kids were around. After some time, some couples decide to downsize to a home more befitting the empty nester lifestyle. Downsizing presents an option for homeowners whose kids have left the nest. New analysis from a survey of 2,500 empty nesters commissioned by Regency Living found that 30 percent of empty nesters choose to downsize and move from their original family homes. When retirement is just around the corner, many professionals shift focus to how they want to live and where. Moving to a new home presents plenty of opportunities for older adults, including a chance to choose a home based on what’s right for them in this stage of life. There are questions homeowners can ask themselves as they ponder if downsizing is right for them.

1. How much upkeep can I handle? A lifelong family home may be well-loved, but chances are it requires significant upkeep and repairs. Empty nesters may choose to move on to a home that offers lifestyle benefits like less

maintenance. Homes in lifestyle communities or those overseen by a homeowners’ association tend to have certain maintenance built into a monthly fee.

2. Is this layout still a fit? Many empty nesters may not immediately feel the effects of aging, but before selecting a next home, individuals should think about aging in place and any unique needs they may have. Opting for a single-level home, or at least one with the owner’s suite on the main level, can be advantageous.

3. Can I make due with less square footage? A cavernous home with many rooms often isn’t desirable for empty nesters. All of that square footage requires heating, cooling and maintenance. Rattling around inside a big, empty house may precipitate the decision to downsize. Downsizing also can free up home equity, which can be used to fund retirement needs.

4. Which features do you desire? Many empty nesters want the next home to focus on some luxury items they may have bypassed in the first home when priorities lay elsewhere. Upscale environments like gourmet kitchens, spa-like bathrooms and outdoor living spaces may be in the budget when moving into a home with a smaller footprint.

5. Will my home be secure while I travel? Empty nesters might want to choose homes in gated communities or condominium

complexes for safety reasons. Should they opt to spend a portion of time at a vacation rental or second home as snowbirds, secure communities enable residents to leave their primary residence with the peace of mind that those homes will be less vulnerable to thieves.

6. Does this home have enough light? The American Optometric Association says many adults start to have problems seeing clearly beginning at age 40. Homes with more light from large windows and artificial lighting can reduce accident risk.

Moving to a smaller home is a consideration for many empty nesters. Various features offer benefits to adults who want to age in place.

Resilient Home Upgrades

In an era when extreme weather events are increasingly common, resilient home upgrades are now more of a necessity than a luxury. Homeowners and builders alike are seeking materials that can withstand harsh conditions while maintaining high-end aesthetics.

This shift is driven by not only the need to protect homes from severe weather and reduce longterm maintenance costs, but also to create seamless indoor-outdoor design continuity. In fact, indooroutdoor coherent design is a top outdoor living trend, according to nearly 80% of design experts surveyed by the Brick Industry Association. Furthermore, Zillow data found eco-friendly, resilient surfaces can boost a home’s resale value by up to 2.8%.

To improve your home’s ability to stand up to harsh weather, pests and more while enhancing curb appeal, consider these lowmaintenance, long-lasting upgrade ideas from the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products, a leader throughout North America in the innovation, design and production of exterior and interior building products.

PROTECT YOUR HOME FROM ABOVE

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Investing in storm-resistant roofing materials can reduce the risk of damage during severe weather

events. Modern roofing solutions are designed to withstand high winds, heavy rain and even hail, providing peace of mind and longlasting protection.

INCORPORATE DURABLE, LASTING BEAUTY

Siding plays a vital role in protecting your home from extreme weather, ground contact and insect damage while contributing to its aesthetic appeal. Durable siding solutions, such as TruExterior poly-ash siding, crafted from a blend of fly ash and polymers, provides the aesthetic of real wood with enhanced durability and performance. With a range of profiles – board and batten, nickel gap, channel, channel bevel and shiplap – it can be cut, milled, glued, stained and painted, catering to diverse design preferences and various architectural styles.

Or for a rich, authentic stone appearance without added installation time, consider Versetta Stone siding. Bold and neutral tones allow for a variety of design styles, from modern to timeless, in traditional, quarried stone and rugged, irregular profiles. Its panelized format hangs with screws for easier, faster installation compared to traditional masonry.

UPGRADE WINDOWS AND DOORS

Modern windows and doors are designed with advanced materials and technologies, such as impact-resistant glass and reinforced frames, that enhance their

resilience. High-quality, stormresistant windows and doors can prevent water infiltration, withstand high winds and provide security against break-ins. They not only improve safety but can also help improve energy efficiency and reduce noise.

KEEP WATER AND PESTS OUT

Trim is an often-overlooked component when it comes to protecting your home from water infiltration and pests. Elevate your exterior with the timeless look of painted wood – without the cracks, warping or constant repainting – with an option like Kleer PVC trim. With its tongue-and-groove design, it’s suitable for modern or traditional styles and ideal for

high-traffic or moisture-prone areas. It replicates the warmth and character of real wood, but is engineered to resist moisture, termites, dirt and UV damage, keeping your home looking fresh year after year.

Additionally, architectural PVC trim and mouldings from the Grove Collection come in six colors including American walnut, oak ridge, natural cedar, smoke grey, weathered oak and charred timber, allowing for customization to match the architectural style of outdoor living spaces, porch ceilings, soffits and more. Lowmaintenance, long-lasting and moisture- and insect-proof, the column wraps slip over existing columns with a hidden, color-

matched fastening system that enhances curb appeal.

MAINTAIN YOUR HOME’S STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY

Proper drainage prevents water from pooling around the foundation, which can lead to serious damage over time. Installing a well-designed drainage system –complete with gutters, downspouts and drainage tiles built to withstand heavy rainfall – ensures water flow is efficiently directed away from your home, helping protect it from potential issues.

Visit westlakeroyalbuildingproducts.com for more ideas and inspiration to make your home more resilient