Queen Anne News 01142026

Magnolia Community Center Reopens After Nearly Two-Year Closure

After nearly two years behind closed doors, the Magnolia Community Center has officially reopened, marking the return of a long-standing gathering place for Magnolia residents.

Originally built in 1952 and physically connected to Catharine Blaine Elementary School, the community center has served generations of families as a hub for recreation, classes, and neighborhood connection. Over the decades, it became a familiar venue for everything from

youth activities and fitness classes to casual drop-in sports like pickleball and tennis.

As the building aged, however, residents and staff began to raise concerns about accessibility, aging utilities, and the overall condition of interior spaces. While these issues were generally minor at first, they accumulated over time, prompting Seattle Parks and Recreation to begin planning for a major renovation as early as 2017.

Despite those early plans, construction did

I-5 Closures on Ship Canal Bridge Expected to Last Through 2027

Interstate 5 is a vital artery through Seattle, carrying hundreds of thousands of people each day. Because of this constant use, repairs are necessary—repairs that, in some areas, have not been made for more than 50 years.

Created in 1960, I-5 was originally expected to last about 25 years before requiring major repairs. Instead, it served roughly twice that span, carrying millions of drivers over the decades. By the 2010s, the Washington State Department of Transportation determined that longoverdue renovations were needed, leading to the creation of the Revive I-5 program. Revive I-5 has already completed

improvements both in and around Seattle, primarily during the early 2020s, and plans to continue work into the 2030s. The program focuses on replacing and repairing pavement and expansion joints, improving drainage systems, and strengthening bridges to better withstand earthquakes.

The most recent phase of the project involves preservation work on the Ship Canal Bridge, a critical stretch of I-5 that carries more than 240,000 vehicles each day.

not begin until spring of 2024. Once work was underway, the scope of the project expanded as crews uncovered more extensive wear and damage than originally anticipated. Renovations focused largely on interior improvements, including seismic upgrades, expanded wheelchair accessibility, remodeled program rooms, updated electrical systems, new fire sprinklers, and improved ventilation throughout the building. Because much of the work was interior-focused, some outdoor activities were able to continue intermittently, but the facility itself remained largely inaccessible to the public.

Unexpected delays extended the closure well beyond initial projections. One of the most significant setbacks occurred when contractors discovered severe damage to the gym floor, requiring an unplanned emergency replacement. That repair alone added considerable time to the project, contributing to a total closure period of nearly 20 months.

Construction was ultimately completed in fall 2025, and the center quietly reopened in December for a soft launch. During that period, staff focused on testing utilities, ensuring safety systems were functioning properly, and preparing spaces for public use. The formal grand reopening took place just days ago, officially welcoming the community back into the revitalized building.

With the reopening, Magnolia Community

Center has resumed a full slate of programming. A variety of paid classes are now available for registration through Seattle.gov, including ballet, basketball, yoga, pottery, and taekwondo. These programs are designed to serve a wide range of ages and interests, reflecting the center’s role as a multi-generational space. Free drop-in programs have also returned. Drop-in pickleball is scheduled for early afternoons on Mondays and Thursdays and is open to adults ages 18 and older. The program is beginner-friendly, with no equipment required, allowing newcomers to try the sport in a low-pressure setting. Tot Gym has resumed on Wednesdays and Fridays, offering children ages five and under a safe indoor space to play with age-appropriate toys and equipment. While not all pre-closure drop-in programs have returned yet, staff anticipate that offerings will continue to expand in the coming months as the center fully settles back into operation. The reopening represents more than the completion of a construction project. It restores a shared space that has long played a role in daily life, community wellness, and neighborhood connection. With updated facilities and renewed programming, Magnolia Community Center is once again positioned to serve as a cornerstone of community activity for years to come.

What Anyone Can Do to Honor the Memory of Martin Luther King Jr.

Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the most influential and inspirational figures of the twentieth century. Born in Atlanta, Georgia, on January 15, 1929, King’s life, tragically cut short when he was assassinated in Memphis on April 4, 1968, is now celebrated annually across the United States and beyond on the anniversary of his birth.

Though Martin Luther King Jr. lost his life more than half a century ago, there is still much people can do to promote and secure the more equitable and just society he longed for. Honoring his memory and legacy is a good place to start, and the following are some ways to commemorate the life of Martin Luther King Jr.

DISCUSS HIS LEGACY WITH YOUNG PEOPLE

There’s much competing for people’s attention as the world finds itself nearing the end of the opening quarter of the twenty-first century. That can make it easy to overlook the efforts of influential individuals like King who helped the world become the place it is today. Parents and educators can utilize Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a catalyst to open a dialogue with their children and students about King’s life and legacy. Highlight the injustices King fought against and emphasize his commitment to peace in the face of those challenges.

WATCH A FILM OR FILMS ABOUT THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT

Historians may dispute the timeline, but the civil rights movement in the United States is generally considered to have taken place between 1954 and 1968. Many films, including dramas and documentaries, examine important individuals and moments during this pivotal period in American history. “Freedom Song” (2000), “Ghosts of Mississippi” (1996), “Malcolm X” (1992), and “Selma” (2014) are just a handful of the many films that shed light on the African American experience during the civil rights era.

EXPAND YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF THE ERA

While King was front and center during the civil rights era, many other brave men and women risked their lives in an effort to combat segregation and discrimination. Any effort to more deeply understand the civil

rights era and the issues that African Americans were fighting to overcome can ensure the struggle that ultimately cost King his life was not for naught. Countless books and documentary films offer invaluable insight into the civil rights era, making them a great resource for individuals who want to honor King and promote his message.

LISTEN

The simple act of listening can be a great way to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. Sadly, many of the issues King fought against during his lifetime remain unresolved today. Individuals from all walks of life can honor King by listening to those who have taken on his mantle and continued the fight for a more just, equitable society. Martin Luther King Jr. is honored each year in the United States on the anniversary of his birth. Individuals can honor his enduring legacy in various ways.

Savvy Senior: When Do Most Americans Take Social Security?

By Jim Miller

Dear Savvy Senior,

What are the most popular ages that people start taking their Social Security retirement benefits? I’m turning 62 later this year and trying to decide when to start taking my benefits.

—Born in 64

Dear 64,

You can sign up to begin your Social Security retirement benefits any time after age 62. However, your monthly payments will be larger for each month you delay claiming them up until age 70. This adds up to around 6 to 8 percent higher payments every year you delay.

To get a breakdown on exactly how much your claiming age affects your benefits, visit Social Security’s Retirement Age Calculator at SSA. gov/benefits/retirement/planner/ ageincrease.html. This tool provides your full retirement age (FRA) –which is 67 for anyone born in 1960 or later – and shows how much your benefits will be reduced by taking early payments or increased by delaying them.

In the meantime, here’s a rundown of when people start receiving retirement benefits (according to the most recent SSA statistical data), and how signing up at each age impacts your payout.

Age 62: This is the earliest possible age you can sign up for Social Security. According to the SSA, in 2024, 23.3 percent of women and

22 percent of men signed up for Social Security at 62. But if you sign up at this age, you’ll get a 30 percent smaller Social Security payment if your FRA is 67.

Age 63: Age 63 is one of the least popular options for choosing to start Social Security benefits –6.2 percent of men and 6.4 percent of women began claiming their benefits at this age in 2024. A worker with a FRA of 67 will get a 25 percent pay cut by signing up at this age.

Age 64: This is another relatively unpopular age to begin collecting Social Security benefits – just 6.5 percent of men and 7 percent of women started collecting at age 64. Social Security payments are reduced by 20 percent for those with a FRA of 67.

Age 65: In 2024, 15.3 percent of men and women decided to collect Social Security at age 65, which is also the enrollment age for Medicare. By starting at this age, you’ll see you monthly payments reduced by 13.3 percent if your FRA is 67.

Age 66: This is FRA for people born between 1943 and 1954, which has made this a very popular age to begin collecting. In 2024, 27 percent of men and 25.3 percent of women sign up for benefits at 66. But since your FRA is 67, you’ll get a 6.7 percent pay cut if you sign up here.

Age 67: People born in 1960 or

later will be able to claim unreduced Social Security payments starting at this age. In 2024, 14.5 percent of men and 13 percent of women did this.

Age 68: In 2024, 12.5 percent of men and 12.3 percent of women delayed their Social Security benefits until age 68. Waiting one extra year beyond your FRA of

67 will increase your benefit by 8 percent.

Age 69: In 2024, 14.5 percent of men and 13.2 percent of women claimed their retirement benefits at 69, which increased their benefits by 16 percent.

Age 70 and older: Waiting to age 70 offers the biggest possible

payout – a 24 percent increase over your FRA of 67. In 2024, 8.4 percent of women and 9.1 percent of men held out until this age.

Send your questions or comments to questions@savvysenior. org, or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070.

Seattle Mayor Calls for People to Sign Up for ‘ICE Mobilization Alerts’

By Spencer Pauley

The Center Square

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson and other city leaders are condemning the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement following the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good during an ICE operation in Minneapolis, Minn., on Wednesday.

Wilson urged residents to sign up for the “Washington All ICE Mobilization Alerts,” a system organized by the Washington Indivisible Network, a progressive organization formed in 2016 in opposition to Trump-era policies. The broader indivisible organization and its affiliates have re ceived funding from the Open Society Foundations, founded by billionaire philan thropist George Soros, whose political giving has drawn criticism from some conserva tive groups.

An ICE agent shot and killed Good during an ICE enforcement operation and has sparked national controversy due to conflicting accounts

of the event and the federal government’s handling of the investigation. The ICE agent involved in the shooting has been identified as Jonathan Ross.

siveness on what happens next: Good’s vehicle moves forward as Ross steps to the side and fires three shots. The SUV then veers right and crashes into other parked cars. Good was later transported by paramedics to Hennepin County Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead.

“ICE’s approach to its mission actively undermines local public safety and puts our entire community at risk.”

“We already have laws in place that forbid the local police from aiding ICE in most instances. The police will enforce these laws,” Wilson said in a statement. “I urge you to sign up for the Washington for All ICE Mobilization Alerts. And don’t stop there. I encourage you to raise your voices and demand that every elected official does what they can to actually protect the people who make our neighborhoods home.”

Federal officials, including President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin, and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem publicly defended Ross. Noem described the incident as “an act of domestic terrorism,” while McLaughlin said Good attempted to run over law enforcement officers.

Democratic leaders disputed that characterization. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey rejected claims that the officer acted in self-defense, saying after viewing the video that the federal account was inaccurate, as previously noted by The Center Square.

Protestors and other Democratic officials contend that Good was attempting to leave the scene and turned the steering wheel away from Ross, rather than trying to strike him with the vehicle.

Wilson was not the only Seattle city official criticizing ICE. Seattle City Councilmember and Public Safety Chair Bob Kettle said, “ICE’s approach to its mission actively undermines local public safety and puts our entire community at risk.”

“This tragedy was entirely preventable, and this type of reckless conduct is unacceptable – while federal law enforcement agencies have the right to conduct their duties within the city, we expect them to carry out their missions unaided by our local police, except in clear emergency situations, and in a safe manner,” Kettle said in a statement.

On the same day as the shooting, the Seattle Police Department confirmed federal law enforcement officers conducted their duties in North Seattle. Police officers documented the interaction after speaking with supervisors.

On Thursday, the Department of Homeland Security released statistics reporting assaults against ICE agents face a more than 1,300% increase in assaults, a 3,200% increase in vehicular attacks against them, and an 8,000% increase in death threats.

A nationwide series of protests and actions against ICE operations and recent U.S. military action in Venezuela, organized by the May Day Strong coalition, are scheduled for Saturday, including several locations in Washington: Shoreline, Bothell, Renton and Mount Vernon.

Washington State Ferries to Test Public Wi-Fi Service this Summer

It’ll only be available on one vessel and at one terminal for a few months. User demand and availability of state funding could dictate whether there’s a fuller rollout.

By Tom Banse Washington State Standard

The days might be numbered for your next Puget Sound ferry ride to be a fleeting offline oasis, free from the incessant demands of email, pop-up ads and doomscrolling.

Washington State Ferries is yielding to requests from commuters for internet access, which the state Legislature heard and turned into an order for a Wi-Fi pilot project.

In a newly published report to the Legislature, the ferry system laid out its plans for a limited trial of free Wi-Fi at one terminal (Bremerton) and on one ferry, the Chimacum. Installation of antennas and routers is slated for this spring to facilitate a Wi-Fi test period during the summer.

Traveler demand and reviews, along with the availability of future state funding, will determine if a wider rollout happens. The ferry system offered pay-to-use Wi-Fi hotspots previously, but discontinued that partnership in 2016 due to poor performance and low uptake.

“The public expects to have internet access,” Poulsbo Mayor Becky Erickson wrote in a letter to the head of Washington State Ferries more than a year ago. “For many individuals, internet access is crucial for carrying out their daily tasks efficiently. The absence of internet access on ferries or the Bainbridge Island terminal decreases productivity.”

Cellular data signals sometimes drop out in the middle of the Sound. WSF reported there are also dead zones around bends in Rich Passage on the Seattle-Bremerton route. The San Juan Islands also suffer from cell service dead zones.

The city manager of Bainbridge Island sent in a nearly identical letter after getting unanimous backing from the city council. Similar sentiments filtered up to the state Senate through Kitsap County’s legislators.

The result was a 2025 transportation budget proviso that directed the ferry system to give public Wi-Fi another try.

“We do want people to be able to work from the boat if that’s important to them,” explained Senate Transportation Committee Chair Marko Liias, D-Edmonds, in an interview last week.

However, the legislative directive to the ferry system had a catch. It said to carry out the new Wi-Fi pilot project “within existing resources,” which meant no extra money. Thus, the cash-strapped agency told lawmakers this winter it had to focus the tryout on one terminal and one vessel.

“Bremerton is strategically selected because it represents one of the system’s longest sailings, where customer demand for internet connectivity is likely higher, and where the physical layout of the terminal provides a manageable platform for initial installation,” the WSF project outline said.

The ferry Chimacum was chosen not only because it serves Bremerton, but because it has a scheduled maintenance layup in March that aligns nicely to do the hotspot installation with minimal extra disruption.

Technology choices

Satellite-based internet provider Starlink is making rapid inroads with airlines and major cruise lines based on having stable and fast service. The Alaska Marine Highway System recently chose Starlink to provide internet connectivity on the ferry assigned to the Bellingham-Southeast Alaska route.

Starlink has a rising Washington-grown competitor in Amazon Leo, another satellitebased internet vendor. But neither of these two companies will be considered for the ferryboat Wi-Fi deployment on Puget Sound this year.

“For the first phase of this pilot, we are focusing on cellular data connectivity rather than satellite-based internet. Cellular connectivity is significantly more cost-effective,” ferry system spokesman Justin Fujioka said

in an email. “Satellite-based solutions, such as low-Earth orbit providers, may be evaluated in the future.”

Fujioka added that the state’s ferries are equipped with commercial-grade antennas that are more powerful than consumer mobile devices. That could give the onboard Wi-Fi network a leg up over your personal cellular data plan, but Fujioka said slowdowns or brief dropouts could still happen. The ferry system’s previous, ultimately unsatisfying onboard Wi-Fi provider Boingo relied on terrestrial cellular data too, a decade ago.

The deployment schedule provided to the Legislature calls for free Wi-Fi to debut in May and last through August. In September, ferry workers expect to crunch the data on customer usage, technical performance and reliability.

Then they will toss the ball back to management and legislators to decide whether

Wi-Fi will be offered permanently, and if so, whether to expand it across more terminals and vessels. A permanent Wi-Fi offering would not necessarily be free of charge. It could be tiered or subscription-based, WSF said.

A key legislator who holds sway over the ferry system budget said the estimated multi-million dollar price tag to roll out Wi-Fi systemwide caught his eye. State House Transportation Committee Chair Jake Fey, D-Tacoma, sounded skeptical about greenlighting big spending for new internet infrastructure and ongoing operational costs in light of all the other needs the beleaguered ferry system has.

“Given that it didn’t work before, I don’t think this would rate” for future funding, Fey said in an interview. “If this came back as uncertain that it would be profitable or break even, I would say another day, not now.”

Large-Scale Solar Farm in Central WA Gets Green Light from Governor

Note from the Editor:

Seattle already draws roughly 90 percent of its electricity from carbon-free sources, largely due to hydropower. Projects like Carriger Solar represent the next phase of that clean-energy foundation. As the city grows and more buildings, vehicles, and infrastructure shift to electric power, Washington must expand its renewable portfolio beyond hydro alone. Large-scale solar projects in central and eastern Washington help diversify the state’s energy mix, reduce vulnerability to drought and changing river conditions, and ensure that Seattle’s clean-energy gains are not only preserved, but strengthened for the decades ahead.

By Jerry Cornfield Washington State Standard

Gov. Bob Ferguson has approved a 1,300-acre solar farm in south-central Washington, calling the project a “win for our state.”

The Carriger Solar project in Klickitat County is expected to generate enough power for thousands of homes. Ferguson informed the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council on Tuesday that he was giving it the go-ahead. This is the first large-scale energy project Ferguson has acted on since taking office.

“Building more clean energy will provide affordable, carbonfree electricity to Washingtonians, create much needed construction jobs, boost economic development and keep our air clean,” Ferguson, a first-term Democrat, said.

Ferguson’s decision isn’t a surprise. When he turned down the council’s initial recommendation to proceed with the Carriger project in August, he made clear that he viewed the undertaking as “consistent with state policies.”

And he stressed the importance of moving swiftly so developers

could secure federal clean energy tax credits before they are ended by the Trump administration. Solar and wind projects must begin construction by July 4, 2026 to fully qualify for the credits.

But Ferguson told the council to talk further with Yakama Nation leaders about their concerns that protections for cultural resources were not strict enough.

What emerged was the revised site certification agreement inked by Ferguson. It requires the developers provide $100,000 in one-time grant funding to the Yakama Nation Cultural Resources Program once the project is operational. Tribal access to traditional and cultural properties must be maintained during construction.

Even with the grant funding, the tribe remained opposed to the project, state officials said.

Ferguson, in his Dec. 2 letter to the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council, said the final agreement “balances the need for affordable clean energy with mitigation requirements that protect Washington’s environment.”

He also reiterated the urgency of acting to take advantage of the federal credits.

“Our state already faces real challenges in building renewable electricity, and we now contend with a federal government that is hostile to renewable electricity development,” he wrote. “All of

these elements factored into my decision.”

Cypress Creek Renewables, based in Santa Monica, California, plans to build the solar farm north of State Route 142 along Knight

Road, about two miles west of Goldendale in unincorporated Klickitat County. The firm applied for state approval for the project in February 2023.

The company is “grateful” for Ferguson’s support, a spokesperson said Thursday.

“We are proud to play a role in advancing the state’s clean energy goals,” Angeli Chandler, Cypress Creek’s director of communications, said in an email.

“We are moving with urgency to ensure we retain federal tax treatment, which is critical to keeping this project on track,” she said. The project is expected to begin delivering power in the summer of 2028, she said.

When completed, Carriger Solar will have 160 megawatts of solar generating potential, enough to power up to 32,500 homes, according to the company’s website. The project, which also includes a 63 megawatt battery energy storage system, will tie into the Bonneville Power Administration transmission system.

It will occupy 1,326 acres within a 2,108-acre development site that is mostly agricultural and rural residential lands.

A Quiet Century at the Queen Anne Library

The Queen Anne Branch opened in 1914, and for decades it served as more than just a place to check out books.

Aphotograph taken nearly a century ago shows two young girls reading on the lawn outside the Seattle Public Library – Queen Anne Branch. The image is unremarkable at first glance. There is no crowd, no ceremony, no visible moment of history unfolding. And yet, that ordinariness is exactly what makes it striking.

The Queen Anne Branch opened in 1914, and for decades it served as more than a place to check out books. It was a neighborhood gathering space, particularly for children. Librarians hosted storytimes, families lingered nearby, and reading spilled outdoors on warm days, as captured in this image. The photo reflects a time when libraries were woven deeply into daily life, especially in residential neighborhoods like Queen Anne.

What stands out today is how little the physical setting has changed. The building remains. A nearby house visible in other archival images still stands. The most obvious differences are the trees, now taller and

I-5 CLOSURES

From page 1

While construction began in the summer of 2025, major traffic closures started more recently. Work is now underway with the closure of the two left northbound lanes, which will remain closed until June 5, 2026.

Construction will temporarily pause from June through July to accommodate increased traffic related to the FIFA World Cup. After that pause, work will shift to the two right northbound lanes, leaving the left lanes open. This phase is expected to continue through the end of 2026.

Drivers should also be aware of intermittent closures before and after active construction periods.

During equipment setup and

fuller, framing the same quiet block. The built environment looks familiar, even reassuring.

What has changed is how libraries are used. In an era shaped by digitization and, more recently, the pandemic, it is increasingly rare to see libraries filled with people, let alone children reading on the lawn outside. While libraries continue to offer vital services, their role as casual, everyday gathering places has diminished.

This photograph serves as a reminder that libraries were once central to neighborhood life, not just as repositories of information, but as shared public spaces. Revisiting images like this invites reflection on what has been gained through technological convenience, and what quiet forms of community may have been left behind.

Sometimes, the most revealing history is found not in dramatic events, but in the ordinary moments that no longer feel quite so ordinary.

removal, I-5 may experience full northbound closures, including during the summer reopening for the World Cup. During both full and partial closures, the northbound express lanes are expected to remain open to all drivers. Some ramps will remain HOV-only, so motorists should pay close attention to posted signage.

Closures on the Ship Canal Bridge are expected to continue into 2027, when similar work is scheduled for the southbound lanes. While detailed timelines have not yet been released, traffic impacts are expected to be similar.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE CLOSURES

Planning ahead is key to navigating the closures. Drivers should monitor announced full

closure dates and adjust travel plans accordingly. The Ship Canal Bridge will remain open to northbound traffic only through the express lanes during full closures. Government websites such as seattle.gov and wsdot.wa.gov will provide updates and additional details as construction continues. Motorists are encouraged to consider alternate routes, though these may also experience congestion. Leaving early, wavoiding peak travel times, and staying informed about express lane access can help reduce delays. The Department of Transportation also recommends using public transit when possible, noting it may be the most reliable option during construction periods.

Will Public Drug Users in Seattle be Arrested? City’s Stance Sparks Confusion

By Carleen joihnson The Center Square

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson says recent reports regarding changes in how public drug use cases are handled are incorrect, following circulation of an internal email sent by Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes to officers on Jan. 1. Her statement was backed up by the Seattle City

“The Seattle Police Department’s communications team said the department has not changed its policy regarding drug use and arrests.”

Attorney’s Office and the Seattle Police Department.

“I want to inform everyone of an important update from the City Attorney’s Office,” Barnes wrote in his New Year’s Day email to officers. “Effective immediately, all charges related to drug possession and/or drug use will be diverted from prosecution to the LEAD program. All instances of drug use or possession will be referred

to Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) – a program designed to redirect low-level offenders in King County from the criminal justice system into supportive social services.”

Barnes’ email was sent in response to a memo from newly appointed City Attorney Erika Evans concerning the handling of drug-related arrests.

“Effective January 1, 2026, consistent with legislative intent, upon receipt of a Knowing Possession or Public Use police report from a referring SPD officer, the Case Prep team or the reviewing Assistant City Prosecutor should immediately refer the case to the LEAD Liaison Team for review prior to any filing action,” the memo stated.

The Center Square contacted the City Attorney’s Office to request clarification on the city’s drug policy. Communications Director Alan Pyke said in a Tuesday email that the office is “meeting the legislative intent to divert where possible and prosecute where necessary.”

The Seattle Police Officers Guild raised concerns about the reported change in policy. Guild

President Mike Solan, who is not seeking reelection after serving six years in the role, said he believes the guidance signals a return to lax enforcement of open-air drug

laws.

“This new resurrected direction of being lax on enforcing open-air drug laws in this city is draconian,” Solan told The Center Square. “And it has a real, negative impact on our community. The direction from the chief, which we have to follow orders, is basically telling us not to enforce those open-air drug laws.”

The Seattle Police Department’s communications team said the department has not changed its policy regarding drug use and arrests.

“SPD will continue to enforce Seattle’s laws,” the department said

in an email. “Our mission remains unchanged, and we fully support programs and policies aimed at reducing recidivism and breaking the cycle of repeated criminal justice involvement.”

The department added that Seattle police officers will continue to make arrests for drug-related offenses when probable cause exists, with the City Attorney’s Office determining next steps regarding prosecution.

Mayor Wilson has since said there has been no change to the city’s policy on enforcement of open-air drug use, describing the situation as a misunderstanding

stemming from internal communications.

Seattle City Councilmember Martiza Rivera said she is taking a wait-and-see approach.

“I found the guidance coming out of the City Attorney’s Office concerning,” Rivera said in a Tuesday statement. “I am going to watch the impact of the City Attorney’s decision very closely. In the last two years, we have made significant progress in combatting overdoses and reducing violent and property crime. The last thing residents want is for Seattle to go backwards.”

Energy Expert: WA Gas Prices Lagging National Drops Due to High Taxes, Other Factors

By Brett Davis The Center Squere

While motorists in much of the rest of the nation are seeing gas prices below $3 a gallon, drivers in Washington state continue to deal with fuel costs averaging closer to $4 a gallon, due to specific state-level policies and other factors that keep prices elevated.

According to AAA, on Monday, the national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in the U.S. is just over $2.81 a gallon. The average price at the pump in Washington is just under $3.84. Only two states currently have higher gasoline prices than Washington: Hawaii, at nearly $4.41, and California, at almost $4.27, according to AAA.

The Center Square spoke with Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, an app and website that helps drivers find the cheapest gasoline prices in their area using crowd-sourced data.

“It’s absolutely because of Washington state’s cap-and-trade program - now the carbon tax essentially,” he said, explaining one reason for the Evergreen State’s high gasoline prices, during a Monday morning phone interview. “Washington and California have some of the highest prices because of this new system that essentially requires refineries to purchase credits to operate their refineries to produce gasoline, diesel and jet fuel. It’s for that reason that Washington state remains one of the most expensive states for gasoline prices in the country.

Under the 2021 Climate Commitment Act, Washington aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by setting a cap on the total amount of pollution allowed in the state and requiring covered businesses to obtain allowances equal to their emissions. These allowances can be acquired through quarterly auctions run by the Washington State

Department of Ecology. Auctions began in early 2023.

Ecology is gradually reducing the number of available allowances each year, resulting in a shrinking supply and higher prices.

The cap-and-trade program has raised more than $4.3 billion to date. The funds are allocated to projects that ostensibly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote clean energy initiatives.

California has a similar program that has raised some $33 billion since its inception in 2012.

It’s not all bad news for Washington drivers, at least in the short term, according to De Haan.

“The average price, though, is down about 36 cents a gallon in the last month,” he said, before adding, “Washington is still averaging $3.75 a gallon; that’s a full dollar higher than the national average.”

Per AAA, gasoline prices in Washington averaged just over $4.12 a month ago.

GasBuddy relies heavily on user-reported

data, while AAA often uses a combination of user reports and professional surveys, with slight variations in timing creating discrepancies.

California usually holds the top spot for the nation’s highest fuel prices, but occasionally trades places with Hawaii and even Washington, albeit rarely.

“California has seen more imports of supplies from places as far away as Asia,” De Haan explained. “Hawaii – also extremely limited competition in that market – with just one refinery in the state, so prices generally, you know, between Hawaii and California, perennially one of those two [is] amongst the highest.”

He went on to say, “But much of the West Coast U.S. is still subject to limitations on refining capacity. Some of that is due to refinery shutdowns that have happened in California. Washington state also saw earlier issues with the Olympic pipeline, and that wasn’t so much having an impact on price, but now the cap-and-invest program in

Washington state is likely going to prevent prices from falling more, similar to what is being seen nationally.”

The Phillips 66 Los Angeles refinery ceased traditional fuel production in late 2024, and the Valero Benicia refinery is set to close by April.

In November, Washington's Olympic Pipeline experienced a leak near Everett, causing supply disruptions for gasoline and jet fuel, leading to concerns and actual spikes in gas prices ahead of the busy Thanksgiving travel period.

De Haan thinks the future will bring higher gas prices in Washington and other western states.

“I think in the next maybe four weeks or so, give or take a couple of weeks, we could be ultimately getting closer to seeing our prices bottom out,” he said. “California is the first state to more expensive blends of summer gasoline; that happens in late January. And so that is also going to mean that there is limited output for gasoline that is for other markets, including Oregon, Washington, Nevada and Arizona. So, that could lead to fragmentation and pushing up prices.”

De Haan continued: “Ultimately, we also tend to see gas prices going up in the spring as refineries start their late winter maintenance ahead of the start of the summer driving season. In addition, gasoline demand will start to go up as we get into warmer weather and things like spring break travel. So, typically, gas prices bottom out in late winter or early February before beginning their seasonal rise. I do expect that sometime this spring, the statewide average in Washington will again surpass the $4 a gallon mark.”

He ended on a somewhat positive note.

“Having said that, we still expect that 2026 gas prices in Washington state will see a slight improvement from what we saw in 2025,” De Haan said.

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20240801000622 (4th Amendment)

20250129000227 (5th Amendment)

20250423000246 (6th Amendment)

20250819000831 (AST) Legal Description: LOTS 1 & 2, Blk 92, D. T. Denny’s First Addition to North Seattle Tax Parcel Nos.: 198320-0005-00

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE OF COMMERCIAL LOAN Issued Pursuant to RCW 61.24.040

I. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned Trustee will, on January 23, 2026, at the hour of 10:00 a.m. at the King County Courthouse, located at King County Administration Building, outside the Fourth Avenue Entrance, 500 Fourth Avenue, Seattle, Washington, sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder, payable at the time of sale, the following described real and personal property, situated in the County of King, State of Washington: See attached Exhibits A and B for full legal descriptions the postal address of which is more commonly known as 425 Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, which is subject to that certain Deed of Trust, Security Agreement, Assignment of Leases and Fixture Filing dated May 17, 2019 and recorded on May 22, 2019 with the King County Recorder under Recording No. 20190522000841, records of King County; as modified by an Assignment of Deed of Trust, Security Agreement, Assignment of Leases and Fixture Filing and Other Loan Documents dated May 17, 2019 and recorded on May 22, 2019 with the King County Recorder under Recording No. 20190522000844, records of King County; as modified by a First Amendment to Deed of Trust and Other Loan Documents dated April 20, 2022 and recorded on May 13, 2022 with the King County Recorder under Recording No. 20220513000882, records of King County; as modified by a Second Amendment to Deed of Trust and Other Loan Documents dated May 11, 2023 and recorded on May 19, 2023 with the King County Recorder under Recording No. 20230519001007, records of King County; as modified by a Third Amendment to Deed of Trust and Other Loan Documents dated November 13, 2023 and recorded on May 13, 2022 with the King County Recorder under Recording No. 20231114000471, records of King County; as modified by a Fourth Amendment to Deed of Trust and Other Loan Documents dated July 10, 2024 and recorded on July 19, 2024 with the King County Recorder under Recording No. 20240719000320, records of King County, which was also recorded on August 1, 2024 with the King County Recorder under Recording No. 20240801000622; as modified by a Fifth Amendment to Deed of Trust and Other Loan Documents dated January 21, 2025 and recorded on January 29, 2025 with the King County Recorder under Recording No. 20250129000227, records of King County; as modified by a Sixth Amendment to Deed of Trust and Other Loan Documents dated April 14, 2025 and recorded on April 23, 2025 with the King County Recorder under Recording No. 20250423000246, records of King County (collectively referred to herein as “Deed of Trust”), from 4 & 9 Twenty-Five, LLC, a Washington limited liability company, as Grantor, to Chicago Title Company of Washington, as Trustee, to secure an obligation in favor of LMREC IV Note Holder, Inc., a Delaware corporation, as Beneficiary (successor in interest to Latitude Management Real Estate Capital IV, Inc).

II. No action commenced by the Beneficiary of the Deed of Trust is now pending to seek satisfaction of the obligation in any court by reason of the Borrower’s or Grantor’s default on the obligation secured by the Deed of Trust.

III. The default for which this foreclosure is made is as follows: Failure to pay the following past due amounts which are in arrears: 1) All outstanding principal as of September 8, 2025: $11,999,622.00 2) All accrued interest as of September 8, 2025 (per diem of $4,416.53) $546,316.14 3) Late fees: $5,648.54 4) Other Charges: Exit Fee: $391,250.00 Prior Attorney’s Fees: $10,000.00 Partial Payment Credit: ($174,240.68) Leasing Reserve Act. Credit: ($339,010.63) -$112,001.31 TOTAL PAST DUE PAYMENTS: $12,439,585.37

IV. The sum owing on the obligation secured by the Deed of Trust is: Principal of $11,999,622.00 together with interest as provided in the Note or other instrument secured from May 17, 2019, and such other costs and fees as are due under the Note or other instrument secured, and as are provided by statute.

V. The above-described real property will be sold to satisfy the expense of sale

Legal Notices

and the obligation secured by the Deed of Trust as provided by statute. The sale will be made without warranty, express or implied, regarding title, possession or encumbrances on January 23, 2026. The defaults referred to in Paragraph III must be cured by January 12, 2026 (11 days before the sale date) to cause a discontinuance of the sale. The sale will be discontinued and terminated if at any time before January 12, 2026 (11 days before the sale date) the default(s) as set forth in Paragraph III is/are cured and the Trustee’s fees and costs are paid. The sale may be terminated by the Grantor any time after January 12, 2026 (11 days before the sale date) and before the sale by the Borrower, Grantor, any Guarantor, or the holder of any recorded junior lien or encumbrance paying the principal and interest secured by the Deed of Trust, plus costs, interest, late charges, fees and advances, if any, made pursuant to the terms of the obligations and/or Deed of Trust, and curing all other defaults. VI.

A written Notice of Default was transmitted by the Beneficiary or Trustee to the Borrower, Grantor, and/or Guarantor at the following addresses by both first class and certified mail, on August 5, 2025, proof of which is in the possession of the Trustee:

4 & 9 TWENTY-FIVE, LLC

Attn: Cameron Smith

425 Westlake Ave N Seattle, WA 98109-5221

Occupant

425 Westlake Ave N Seattle, WA 98109

Ben Cameron Smith, Registered agent

4 & 9 TWENTY-FIVE, LLC

425 Westlake Ave N Seattle, WA 98109-5221

Ben Cameron Smith 925 Republican Street Seattle, WA 98019

Ruth Ann Smith 40121- 278th Ave SE Enumclaw, WA 98022

Ben Alan Smith 40121 - 278th Ave SE Enumclaw, WA 98022

Paul Meier, Esq. RYAN, SWANSON & CLEAVLAND 401 Union Street, Suite 1500 Seattle, WA 98101-2668

Paul Meier, Esq. RYAN, SWANSON & CLEAVLAND 1201 Third Avenue, Suite 3400 Seattle, WA 98101-3034

Attorneys for 4 & 9 Twenty-Five, LLC,

Ben Cameron Smith, Ben Alan Smith and Ruth Ann Smith

Attorneys for 4 & 9 Twenty-Five, LLC,

Ben Cameron Smith, Ben Alan Smith and Ruth Ann Smith

The written Notice of Default was also posted in a conspicuous place on the real property described in Paragraph I above on August 6, 2025. The Trustee has in Trustee’s possession proof of such service/posting.

VII. The Trustee, whose name and address is set forth below, will provide in writing to anyone requesting it a statement of all costs and fees due at any time prior to the sale.

VIII. The effect of the sale will be to deprive the Grantor and all those who hold by, through or under Grantor, of all their interest in the above-described property. IX. Anyone having any objection to the sale on any grounds whatsoever will be afforded an opportunity to be heard as to those objections if they bring a lawsuit to restrain the sale pursuant to RCW 61.24.130. Failure to bring such a lawsuit may result in a waiver of any proper grounds for invalidating the Trustee’s sale.

X.

Notice to Occupants or Tenants

The purchaser at the trustee’ sale is entitled to possession of the property on the 20th day following the sale, as against the grantor under the deed of trust (the owner) and anyone having an interest junior to the deed of trust, including occupants and tenants. After the 20th day following the sale the purchase has the right to evict occupants and tenants by summary proceedings under the unlawful detainer act, Chapter 59.12 RCW. The purchaser at the trustee’s sale is entitled to possession of the property on the 20th day following the sale, as against the grantor under the deed of trust (the owner) and anyone having an interest junior to the deed of trust, including occupants and non-residential tenants. After the 20th day following the sale the purchaser has the right to evict occupants and non-residential tenants by summary proceedings under chapter 59.12 RCW. For residential tenant-occupied property, the purchaser shall provide a tenant with written notice in accordance with RCW 61.24.060. Residential tenantoccupied property means property comprised solely of a single-family residence, or a condominium, cooperative, or other dwelling unit in a multiplex or other building containing fewer than five residential units.

XI.

Notice to Guarantors

If this Notice is being mailed or directed to any Guarantor, said Guarantor should be advised that: (1) the Guarantor may be liable for a deficiency judgment to the extent the sale price obtained at the trust-

ee’s sale is less than the debt secured by the deed of trust; (2) the Guarantor has the same rights to reinstate the debt, cure the default, or repay the debt as is given to the grantor in order to avoid the trustee’s sale; (3) the Guarantor will have no right to redeem the property after the trustee’s sale; (4) subject to such longer periods as are provided in the Washington deed of trust act, chapter 61.24 RCW, any action brought to enforce a guaranty must be commenced within one year after the trustee’s sale, or the last trustee’s sale under any deed of trust granted to secure the same debt; and (5) in any action for a deficiency, the Guarantor will have the right to establish the fair value of the property as of the date of the trustee’s sale, less prior liens and encumbrances, and to limit its liability for a deficiency to the difference between the debt and the greater of such fair value or the sale price paid at the trustee’s sale, plus interest and costs. DATED this 6th day of October, 2025. EISENHOWER CARLSON PLLC

Successor Trustee By: Darren R. Krattli, Member Address: 909 A St., Suite 600 Tacoma, WA 98402 Phone: (253) 572-4500 STATE OF WASHINGTON COUNTY OF PIERCE ))) ss. This record was acknowledged before me on October 6, 2025 by DARREN R. KRATTLI as a MEMBER of EISENHOWER CARLSON PLLC. Dated this 6th day of October, 2025. Name: Anthony M. Manibusan Notary Public in and for the State of Washington, residing at: Tacoma My Commission Expires: 1-282029 Exhibit A - Legal Description Lots 1 and 2, Block 92, D. T. Denny’s First Addition to North Seattle, according to the plat thereof recorded in Volume 1 of Plats, Page 79, in King County, Washington; Except the East 12 feet thereof condemned in King County Superior Court Cause No. 47549 for widening of Westlake Avenue North, as provided by Ordinance No. 12023 of the City of Seattle. Situate in the City of Seattle, County of King, State of Washington Exhibit B - Additional Collateral

All of the real, personal, tangible and intangible property, rights, interests and estates now owned, or hereafter acquired by Borrower and/or Grantor (collectively, the “Property”), including, but not limited to, the following: a. Land. The real property, and/or leasehold interest in the real property, described in foregoing Exhibit “A” (the “Land”); b. Additional Land. All additional lands, estates and development rights hereafter acquired by Borrower and/or Grantor for use in connection with the Land and the development of the Land and all additional lands and estates therein which may, from time to time, by supplemental mortgage or otherwise be expressly made subject to the lien of the Deed of Trust; c. Improvements. The buildings, structures, fixtures, additions, enlargements, extensions, modifications, repairs, replacements and improvements now or hereafter erected or located on the Land (collectively, the “Improvements”); d. Easements. All easements, rights-of-way or use, rights, strips and gores of land, vaults, streets, ways, alleys, passages, sewer taps, sewer rights, water, ditches, wells, reservoirs, drains, water courses, water taps, water rights and powers, air rights and development rights, permits, licenses, rights of way and all estates, rights, titles, interests, privileges, liberties, servitudes, tenements, hereditaments and appurtenances of any nature whatsoever, in any way now or hereafter belonging, relating or pertaining to the Land and the Improvements and the reversions and remainders, and all land lying in the bed of any street, road or avenue, opened or proposed, in front of or adjoining the Land, to the center line thereof and all the estates, rights, titles, interests, dower and rights of dower, curtesy and rights of curtesy, property, possession, claim and demand whatsoever, both at law and in equity, in possession or expectancy, of Borrower and/or Grantor of, in and to the Land and the Improvements and every part and parcel thereof, with the appurtenances thereto; e. Equipment. All “equipment,” as such term is defined in Article 9 of the Uniform Commercial Code (as hereinafter defined), now owned or hereafter acquired by Borrower and/or Grantor, which is used at or in connection with the Improvements or the Land or is located thereon or therein (including, but not limited to, all machines, machinery, equipment, heating, ventilation or air conditioning equipment, garbage equipment and apparatus, incinerators, dynamos, elevators, stokers, boilers, furnaces, motors, furnishings, and electronic data-processing and other office equipment now owned or hereafter acquired by Borrower and/or Grantor and any and all additions, substitutions and replacements of any of the foregoing), together with all attachments, components, parts, equipment and accessories installed thereon or affixed thereto (collectively, the “Equipment”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, Equipment shall not include any property belonging to tenants under leases except to the extent that Borrower and/or Grantor shall have any right or interest therein; f. Fixtures. All Equipment now owned, or the ownership of which is hereafter acquired, by Borrower and/or Grantor which is so related to the Land and Improvements forming part of the Property that it is deemed fix-

tures or real property under the law of the particular state in which the Equipment is located, including, but not limited to, all building or construction materials and supplies intended for construction, reconstruction, alteration or repair of or installation on the Property, construction equipment, appliances, machinery, plant equipment, fittings, cabinets, awnings, screens, shades, blinds, carpets, draperies, apparatuses, fixtures and other items now or hereafter attached to, installed in or used in connection with (temporarily or permanently) any of the Improvements or the Land, including, but not limited to, engines, devices for the operation of pumps, pipes, plumbing, cleaning, call and sprinkler systems, fire extinguishing apparatuses and equipment, heating, ventilating, plumbing, laundry, incinerating, electrical, air conditioning and air cooling equipment and systems, gas and electric machinery, appurtenances and equipment, pollution control equipment, security systems, disposals, dishwashers, refrigerators and ranges, recreational equipment and facilities of all kinds, and water, gas, electrical, storm and sanitary sewer facilities, utility lines and equipment (whether owned individually or jointly with others, and, if owned jointly, to the extent of Borrower and/or Grantor’s interest therein) and all other utilities whether or not situated in easements, all water tanks, water supply, water power sites, fuel stations, fuel tanks, fuel supply, and all other structures, together with all warranties and guaranties relating thereto, and all accessions, appurtenances, additions, replacements, betterments and substitutions for any of the foregoing and the proceeds thereof (collectively, the “Fixtures”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, “Fixtures” shall not include any property which tenants are entitled to remove pursuant to leases, except to the extent that Borrower and/or Grantor shall have any right or interest therein; g. Personal Property. All furniture, furnishings, objects of art, machinery, goods, tools, supplies, inventory, appliances, general intangibles, contract rights, accounts, accounts receivable, notes, chattel paper, franchises, licenses, certificates (including, but not limited to, certificates of occupancy) and permits, consents, approvals, utility deposits and all other personal property of any kind or character whatsoever as defined in and subject to the provisions of the Uniform Commercial Code, whether tangible or intangible, other than Fixtures, which are now or hereafter owned by Borrower and/or Grantor, together with all accessories, replacements and substitutions thereto or therefor and the proceeds thereof (collectively, the “Personal Property”), and the right, title and interest of Borrower and/or Grantor in and to any of the Personal Property which may be subject to any security interests, as defined in the Uniform Commercial Code, as adopted and enacted by the state or states where any of the Property is located (as amended from time to time, the “Uniform Commercial Code”), superior in lien to the lien of the Deed of Trust and all proceeds and products of the above; h. Minerals, Crops, Timber and Landscaping. All minerals, crops, timber, trees, shrubs, flowers and landscaping features; i. Leases and Rents. All leases (including, but not limited to, ground leases and oil, gas and mineral leases), subleases or subsubleases, lettings, licenses, concessions or other agreements (whether written or oral whether now or hereafter in effect) pursuant to which any Person is granted a possessory interest in, or right to use or occupy all or any portion of the Land and the Improvements, by or on behalf of Borrower and/or Grantor, and every modification, amendment or other agreement relating to such leases, subleases, subsubleases, or other agreements entered into in connection with such leases, subleases, subsubleases, or other agreements and every guarantee of the performance and observance of the covenants, conditions and agreements to be performed and observed by the other party thereto, heretofore or hereafter entered into (collectively, the “Leases”), whether before or after the filing by or against Borrower and/or Grantor of any petition for relief under 11 U.S.C. § 101 et seq., as the same may be amended from time to time (the “Bankruptcy Code”), and all right, title and interest of Borrower and/ or Grantor, Borrower and/or Grantor’s successors and assigns therein and thereunder, including, but not limited to, cash or securities deposited thereunder to secure the performance by the lessees of their obligations thereunder and all rents (including additional rents of any kind and percentage rents), rent equivalents, moneys payable as damages (including payments by reason of the rejection of a Lease in a Bankruptcy Action) or in lieu of rent or rent equivalents, royalties (including all oil and gas or other mineral royalties and bonuses), income, receivables, receipts, revenues, deposits (including security, utility and other deposits), accounts, cash, issues, profits, charges for services rendered, and other payments and consideration of whatever form or nature (including any Lease Termination Payments) received by or paid to or for the account of or benefit of Borrower and/or Grantor or any of their agents or employees from any and all sources arising from or attributable to the Property, and the Improvements, includ-

ing charges for oil, gas, water, steam, heat, ventilation, air-conditioning, electricity, license fees, maintenance fees, charges for Real Estate Taxes, operating expenses or other amounts payable to Borrower and/or Grantor ( or for the account of Borrower and/or Grantor), revenues, if any, from telephone services, laundry, vending, television and all receivables, customer obligations now existing or hereafter arising or created out of the sale, lease, sublease, license, concession or other grant of the right of the use and occupancy of the Property or rendering of services by Borrower and/or Grantor, Manager, or any of their respective agents or employees and proceeds, if any, from business interruption or other loss of income insurance, and receipts from the Land and the Improvements whether paid or accruing before or after the filing by or against Borrower and/or Grantor of any petition for relief under the Bankruptcy Code (collectively, the “Rents”), and all proceeds from the sale or other disposition of the Leases and the right to receive and apply the Rents to the payment of the Debt and the performance of the Other Obligations; j. Condemnation Awards. All Awards or payments, including interest thereon, which may heretofore and hereafter be made with respect to all or any portion of the Property, whether from the exercise of the right of eminent domain (including, but not limited to, any transfer made in lieu of or in anticipation of the exercise of such right), or for a change of grade, or for any other injury to or decrease in the value of the Property including, but not limited to, any award or awards, or settlements or payments, hereafter made resulting from (i) condemnation proceedings or the taking of all or any portion of the Improvements, the Equipment, the Fixtures, the Leases or the Personal Property, or any part thereof, under the power of eminent domain; or (ii) the alteration of grade or the location or the discontinuance of any street adjoining the Property or any portion thereof; and Borrower and/or Grantor hereby agrees to execute and deliver from time to time such further instruments as may be requested by Trustee (as defined in the Deed of Trust) or Beneficiary to confirm such assignment to Beneficiary of any such award, damage, payment or other compensation; k. Policies and Insurance Proceeds. All Policies (including unearned premiums thereof) and all Insurance Proceeds in respect of the Property under any Policies covering the Property, including, but not limited to, the right to receive and apply the proceeds of any Policies, judgments, or settlements made in lieu thereof, in connection with a Casualty to the Property; l. Tax Certiorari. All refunds, rebates or credits in connection with any reduction in Taxes or Other Charges charged against the Property; m. Conversion. All proceeds products, substitutions, accessions (including claims and demands) of the conversion, voluntary or involuntary, of any of the foregoing including, but not limited to, Insurance Proceeds and Awards, into cash or liquidation claims; n. Rights. The right, in the name and on behalf of Borrower and/or Grantor, to appear in and defend any action or proceeding brought with respect to the Property and to commence any action or proceeding to protect the interest of Beneficiary in the Property; o. Material Contracts. All agreements, contracts, certificates (including certificates of occupancy), instruments, franchises, permits, consents, approvals, licenses, plans, specifications and other documents, now or hereafter entered into, and all rights therein and thereto, respecting or pertaining to the use, occupation, construction, management or operation of the Land and any part thereof and any Improvements or any business or activity conducted on the Land and any part thereof (other than the Replacement Management Agreement, if any, and the Leases), and all warranties and guaranties to the Improvements or to any equipment, fixtures, furniture, furnishing, personal property or components of any of the foregoing, and all right, title and interest of Borrower and/or Grantor therein and thereunder, including, but not limited to, the right, upon the happening of any default hereunder, to receive and collect any sums payable to Borrower and/or Grantor thereunder; p. Trademarks and General Intangibles. All trade names (including, but not limited to, all names by which the Land and/or the Improvements may be operated or known, all rights to carry on business under such names), trademarks, servicemarks, symbols, logos, copyrights, patents, goodwill, books and records and all other general intangibles (including, but not limited to, all rights, interests and privileges, which Borrower and/or Grantor may have as developer under any covenants, conditions and restrictions or declarations) relating to or used in connection with the operation of the Property; q. Accounts. All reserves, escrows and deposit accounts (including, but not limited to, the Deposit Account) and other rights and evidence of rights to investment or cash maintained by Borrower and/or Grantor with respect to the Property, including, but not limited to, all accounts established or maintained pursuant to that certain Loan Agreement of even date herewith by and between Borrower and/or Grantor and Beneficiary (the “Loan Agreement”) or the Deposit Ac-

Seattle’s Public-Private Partnership ‘AI House’ Grows to 21 Startups in First Year

By Spencer Pauley The Center Square

Seattle’s Office of Economic Development is calling the first year of its artificial intelligence public-private partnership a major success after growing its number of startups from 15 to 21.

The partnership, titled “AI House” is run out of Pier 70 on the Seattle waterfront, with the space intended to be used as a de facto AI town hall, allowing talent –entrepreneurs, investors, students and community leaders – to work together.

The public-private partnership includes the Seattle Office of Economic Development, the nonprofit AI research institute AI2 Incubator and Ada Developers Academy.

Seattle used $210,000 in funding from the Office of Economic Development and $400,000 from a Washington State Department of Commerce grant to lease the waterfront space to nonprofit organizations and academic institutions as part of a plan to support and nurture early-stage and startup AI businesses.

When the partnership was first announced in March, there were an initial 15 AI startups already at AI House, all of which have received funding from AI2 Incubator. Since then, that number

has grown to 21 startups that has raised $34 million in capital, according to the Office of Economic Development.

The startups focus on AI technology and development and teach curricula to skill up workers to use AI as a business resource.

Eric Moss, communications director for the Office of Economic Development, said the city sees AI House as a “huge success as the first-of-its-kind town hall for AI founders, developers, and the broader tech community.”

Moss noted another metric of success for the AI House has been the community gatherings that have brought together people with a range of expertise across the AI ecosystem together for knowledge sharing, innovative problem solving, and to build a real community.

“Places like the AI House are just one of the many reasons Seattle is becoming the best place in the nation to form, launch, and grow an AI company,” Moss emailed The Center Square.

Moss said that when founders complete their incubation and graduate out of the AI House, they will have access to available office space downtown, keeping them close to the AI community at AI House, but also close to major tech companies that have a presence in Seattle.

As AI has developed rapidly, so have criticisms of the

new technology. This includes its impact on the workforce, as Seattle has seen this year in the case of Amazon laying off 14,000 corporate jobs as the retailer invests in AI.

The Washington State Labor Council pushed for 2025 legislation – House Bill 1622 and Senate Bill 5422 – to allow public

employees to collectively bargain over AI implementation if it affects wages, hours, working conditions or performance evaluations.

The council recommended protections for specific categories of workers most likely to be impacted by AI, including transportation workers, creators of intellectual property, workers in creative fields,

The Science Behind Social Connections

administrative workers and public employees.

HB 1622 and SB 5422 did not pass out of the 2025 Washington legislative session.

The Washington State Labor Council and AI2 Incubator did not, amid New Year’s holiday week, respond to The Center Square’s inquiries by the of publication.

by January 20. Enjoy a complimentary chef-prepared

and