Mary Fertakis is a Consultant and Chairs the Washington State Board of Education. She was born & raised in Seattle and has been a Seahawks fan since the franchise arrived in 1976.
Fertakis was excited to be in
Attending my first NFC Championship game in that stadium with the incomparable 12’s was an awesome bucket list experience.
Funny story: I was at the insane Dec. 18 game vs. the Rams, which
attendance for the big win on Sunday and had a lot to say: This has been an amazing season! I thought we could have an 11-6 record and make the playoffs. It was not on my bingo card that we’d go 14-3, take the #1 seed, or that the road to the Super Bowl would go through Seattle! I’m happy to be wrong!
Seattle Officials Weigh Potential Impact of Trump Threat to Cut Federal Funding to Sanctuary Cities
The potential impact of former President Donald Trump’s renewed threat to suspend federal funding to sanctuary jurisdictions remains uncertain, but Seattle officials appear cautiously confident that such action would face significant legal hurdles.
During a Jan. 13 speech at the Detroit Economic Club, Trump said his administration would halt federal payments to
sanctuary cities and states, claiming those jurisdictions undermine public safety by limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
“Starting Feb. 1, we are not making any payments to sanctuary cities or states having sanctuary cities,” Trump said, adding that such jurisdictions “do everything possible to protect criminals at the expense of American citizens.”Seattle currently
was my birthday….I aged not one, but several years that night. But that W was the best birthday gift.
When it was clear we’d be playing the Rams again in the playoffs, I went for full mojo & wore exactly the same thing today - and I mean everything - that I wore to that game…including my Seahawks “Happy Birthday” button. Many people wished me a happy birthday today & it was fun to explain why I was wearing it. They were in full agreement that whatever it takes to support a W makes total sense. Go Hawks!!!
Seattle Parks Superintendent Anthony-Paul Diaz Departs as Mayor Wilson Reshapes City Leadership
Seattle Parks and Recreation Superintendent Anthony Paul Diaz has departed from his role after new Mayor Katie Wilson chose not to renew his contract, marking one of the first
major leadership changes under the new administration.
Diaz, who was hired in 2022 under former Mayor Bruce Harrell, will be replaced on an interim basis by Deputy Superintendent of Policy and Finance Michele Finnegan, according to an announcement from the mayor’s office. The change comes as Wilson reviews leadership across several city departments following her narrow election victory last fall.
The decision follows increased public scrutiny of Diaz’s travel while serving as superintendent. Reporting by the local outlet Seattle Red documented numerous domestic and international trips taken by Diaz during his tenure, including travel to Colombia, Mexico, the Netherlands, and the United Arab Emirates. Some of those international trips reportedly exceeded $6,000 each.
City officials have said taxpayer funds were not always used to pay for the travel,
and there has been no indication that Diaz violated any city policies or rules. The Parks and Recreation Department has previously stated that some of the travel was related to conferences or professional obligations and that outside entities sometimes covered costs. The department also noted that Diaz forfeited a significant amount of vacation time during his tenure.
Still, the frequency and cost of the trips drew criticism at a time when many Seattle residents have expressed frustration over conditions in neighborhood parks.
Mayor Wilson’s office did not respond to multiple requests for comment on whether the decision not to renew Diaz’s contract was related to the travel controversy or whether any formal review of the trips would be conducted. Seattle Parks and Recreation also declined to comment.
SALARY AND PUBLIC PERCEPTION
According to city wage data, an Anthony Diaz is listed as an “Executive 4” with Seattle Parks and Recreation, earning an hourly rate of $153.70. Based on a standard 40-hour workweek, that equates to an annual salary of nearly $320,000. For critics, that compensation — combined with extensive travel — stood in contrast to ongoing challenges within the city’s park system. Several parks across Seattle have faced closures, fencing, or restricted access in recent years due to maintenance backlogs, vandalism, drug activity, and safety concerns.
Parks such as Dr. Jose Rizal Park, Seven Hills Park, and Blanche Lavizzo Park have at times been partially or fully closed, prompting complaints from nearby
SEATTLE PARKS, 3
Staff Report
Mary Fertakis proudly displays the commemorative towel and her Seahawks Happy Birthday button at Sunday’s National Championship game at Lumen Field.
MARY FERAKIS
Savvy Senior: How To Turn Down the Volume on Tinnitus
By Jim Miller
Dear Savvy Senior,
What treatments are recommended to help with tinnitus? I started noticing a subtle ringing in my ears about 10 years ago, but it’s gotten much more bothersome since I turned 60.
—Ringing Ronnie
Dear Ronnie,
Tinnitus is actually one of the most common health conditions in the country. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders around 10 percent of the U.S. adult population – over 25 million Americans – experience some form of tinnitus.
For most people tinnitus is merely annoying, but roughly 5 million people struggle with chronic tinnitus and 2 million find it debilitating.
While there’s no cure, there are a range of different strategies you can employ to reduce the symptoms to make it less bothersome. Here’s what you should know.
WHAT IS TINNITUS?
Tinnitus (pronounced TIN-a-tus or tin-NIGHT-us) is the sensation of hearing a ringing, buzzing, roaring, hissing or whistling sound in one or both ears when no external sound is present.
The sounds, which can vary in pitch and loudness, are usually worse when background noise is low, so you may be more aware of it at night when you’re trying to fall asleep in a quiet room.
Tinnitus itself is not a disease, but rather a symptom of some other
SANCTUARY CITIES, from 1
receives an estimated $120 million in federal funding, supporting programs that include transportation projects, senior services, nutrition assistance, and housing.
According to the Seattle Budget Office, federal grant revenue is built into the city’s adopted budget and supplemented throughout the year. In an email response, fiscal and policy analyst Marquis Bullock said the city’s 2026 adopted budget includes approximately $120 million in anticipated federal grant funding, along with additional grants and unspent funds from prior years that remain active.
City officials said they have not received formal notification from the federal government indicating that funding cuts are imminent.
LEGAL PRECEDENT AND PAST CHALLENGES
Seattle has faced similar threats in the past. In 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice published a list of so-called “sanctuary jurisdictions,” which included Seattle and Washington state, following earlier warnings from Trump about potential funding consequences for jurisdictions that limit immigration enforcement cooperation.
Those efforts have previously been blocked in court. Cities and counties across the country, including Seattle and King County, successfully challenged attempts to condition federal funding on immigration enforcement.
A statement from the office of Seattle City Attorney Erika Evans emphasized that prior legal protections remain in place.
“Seattle and countless other cities have already successfully challenged similar directives in court,” the statement said. “A
underlying health condition. The best way to find out what’s causing your tinnitus is to see an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist – a doctor who specializes in ear, nose and throat diseases (commonly called an ENT). The various things that can cause tinnitus are:
• Hearing loss, which is the most common cause.
• Middle ear obstructions usually caused by a build-up of earwax deep in the ear canal.
• Side effects of many different prescription and over-the-counter medicines like aspirin, ibuprofen, certain blood pressure medicines and diuretics, some antidepressants, cancer medicines and antibiotics.
• Various medical conditions such as high blood pressure, vascular disease, diabetes, allergies, thyroid problems, ear or sinus infections, Meniere’s disease,
federal judge’s injunction prohibiting President Trump’s previous attempt to withhold funding for policy decisions he disagreed with is still in effect. The City will continue to defend the rule of law and its legal authority to be a welcoming place for all people.”
In August, U.S. District Judge William Orrick issued a nationwide preliminary injunction barring the federal government from freezing or withholding federal funds from more than 30 cities and counties involved in the lawsuit. Seattle and King County were named plaintiffs in the case.
WHITE HOUSE RESPONSE
When asked whether Trump is confident his administration can legally cut funding to sanctuary jurisdictions despite previous court rulings, the White House did not directly address the legal questions.
Instead, spokesperson Abigail Jackson reiterated the administration’s position, stating that sanctuary cities “put law-abiding Americans at risk” and that the administration is “considering a variety of lawful options” to pursue its policy goals.
MAYOR WILSON’S POSITION
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson, who assumed office earlier this month, has been a vocal supporter of Seattle’s sanctuary city policies. While her office did not respond to requests for comment on Trump’s latest remarks, Wilson has previously said she intends to “Trumpproof Seattle.”
Her platform includes reviewing and strengthening the city’s sanctuary city ordinance, which has not been updated in more than two decades, and examining data collection practices to ensure the
Lyme disease, fibromyalgia, otosclerosis, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, a tumor, an injury to the head or neck, traumatic brain injury, depression, stress and more.
TREATMENT STRATEGIES
There are many ways to treat tinnitus depending on the cause. For example, if your tinnitus is caused by a wax buildup in your ears or a medical condition like high blood pressure or a thyroid problem, treating the problem may reduce or eliminate the noise.
Or, if you’re taking a medication that’s causing the problem, switching to a different drug or lowering the dosage may provide some relief. If you have hearing loss, getting a hearing aid can help mask your tinnitus by improving your ability to hear actual sounds.
city is not sharing information with federal immigration agencies. She has also emphasized compliance with Washington’s Keep Washington Working Act, which limits cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.
CONCERNS ABOUT FUNDING
LOSS
Some community advocates warn that any loss of federal funding could have serious consequences for Seattle, particularly for services addressing housing instability, mental health, and substance use.
Andrea Suarez, founder and executive director of We Heart Seattle, said federal funding plays a critical role in supporting vulnerable populations.
“We absolutely need any and all federal money to support people getting the treatment and resources they need,” Suarez said, citing growing demand for mental health services, housing, and emergency support.
She added that cutting funding would be especially damaging as the region continues to grapple with homelessness and the opioid crisis.
WHAT COMES NEXT
While Trump’s comments have renewed uncertainty, legal experts and city officials note that Congress controls federal spending, and past attempts to withhold funds from sanctuary jurisdictions have repeatedly failed in court.
For now, Seattle officials say they are monitoring developments closely, but remain confident that longstanding legal protections limit the federal government’s ability to unilaterally cut off funding
Another strategy that can help suppress or mask the sound so it’s less bothersome is “sound therapy.” This can be as simple as a fan or white noise machine, or you can use sound therapy apps like ReSound Tinnitus Relief, myNoise or NatureSpace.
Cognitive behavioral therapy and psychological counseling can also be helpful, as can tinnitus retraining therapy (TNT). This combines counseling and sound therapy to train your brain to ignore the sound in your ears. The new MindEar app offers TNT.
There are even new innovations like the FDA approved device Lenire (lenire. com) that uses electrical stimulation of the tongue to alleviate symptoms. There are also certain medications that may help. While there’s no FDA approved drugs specifically designed to treat tinnitus, some antianxiety drugs and antidepressants have been effective in relieving symptoms.
Your audiologist or ENT can help you figure out the best treatment options. Other things you can do to help quiet the noise is to avoid things that can aggravate the problem like fatty foods, salt, artificial sweeteners, sugar, alcohol, tonic water, tobacco and caffeine. Also be sure to drink plenty of water as dehydration can worsen symptoms. And protect yourself from loud noises by wearing earplugs.
Send your questions or comments to questions@savvysenior.org, or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070.
residents who say they have lost access to public green space.
Some critics argue that the visibility of those problems made Diaz’s travel especially controversial, even if it did not violate policy.
A DEPARTMENT UNDER PRESSURE
Seattle Parks and Recreation oversees more than 500 parks and open spaces, community centers, pools, and recreation programs, serving millions of visitors each year. The department employs nearly 2,000 workers and plays a central role in youth programming, senior services, environmental stewardship, and neighborhood quality of life.
In recent years, however, the department has faced growing challenges, including staffing shortages, budget pressures, deferred maintenance, and the increasing impact of homelessness and substance use in park spaces. City leaders have struggled to balance enforcement, outreach, and access as public expectations for parks continue to rise.
Mayor Wilson has made public safety, housing stability, and service delivery central themes of her early administration, and the leadership change at Parks and Recreation appears to align with a broader effort to reassess departmental priorities and management.
DIAZ DEFENDS HIS RECORD
In a prepared statement included in a mayoral news release announcing several leadership decisions, Diaz highlighted what he described as key accomplishments during his tenure.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to have led the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department,” Diaz said. “With a workforce of nearly 2,000 employees, they are the ones who make Seattle’s parks the eighth best park system in America. Even in the rainy, cold, and darkest of days they show up for the community — providing exceptional park experiences and enriching the lives of children, teens, adults, and our aging population.”
Diaz did not directly address the controversy surrounding his travel in the statement.
WHAT COMES NEXT
Michele Finnegan, who will serve as interim superintendent, brings experience in policy and finance within the department. The mayor’s office has not announced a timeline for selecting a permanent replacement.
As Wilson continues to evaluate city leadership, the departure of a high-profile department head underscores the shifting priorities of a new administration and the heightened scrutiny facing city officials.
For many Seattle residents, the transition raises broader questions about accountability, transparency, and how the city will restore confidence in its parks system — particularly as neighborhoods seek safe, wellmaintained public spaces amid ongoing challenges.
Whether Diaz’s departure signals a new direction for Seattle Parks and Recreation or simply a change in leadership remains to be seen. What is clear is that parks, long considered one of Seattle’s defining features, are likely to remain at the center of public debate as the city moves forward.
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY JANE W.
SEATTLE PARKS, from 1
Seattle Center Festál Announces 2026 Schedule
Festál returns with 25 free cultural festivals beginning Feb. 14
Seattle Center Festál
Seattle Center Festál marks 29 years in 2026, returning with 25 free cultural festivals that honor traditions from around the world and celebrate the region’s vibrant communities. Produced in partnership with community-based organizations, the Festál series runs from February through November and offers family-friendly experiences that showcase music, dance, cultural vendors, visual art, food, storytelling, and hands-on activities.
Since launching in 1997, Festál has been a cornerstone of Seattle Center programming — creating space for cultural exchange, reflection, and shared celebration. Each festival is community-produced and highlights both heritage and contemporary cultural expression, inviting Seattleites and visitors to learn, engage, and connect.
“Festál thrives because it’s rooted in community collaboration,” said Heidi Jackson, Managing Artistic Director of Cultural Programs at Seattle Center. “Every festival honors a living tradition and offers opportunities for connection and belonging in the heart of the city.”
Seattle Center Festál’s 2026 season begins Feb. 14 with Tết in Seattle – Vietnamese Lunar New Year and continues through the fall with Seattle Hmong New Year in November. Visitors can expect live performances, cultural demonstrations, vendor marketplaces, family activities, and free admission to all events.
SEATTLE CENTER FESTÁL 2026 SCHEDULE
• Tết in Seattle – Vietnamese Lunar New Year, Saturday–Sunday, Feb. 14–15
• Irish Festival Seattle, Saturday–Sunday, March 14–15
• Seattle’s French Fest: A Celebration of French-Speaking Cultures, Sunday, March 22
• Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival, Friday–Sunday, April 10–12
• Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration, Saturday, May 2
• A Glimpse of China – Seattle Chinese Culture & Arts Festival, Saturday, May 9
• Spirit of Africa, Saturday, May 16
• Northwest Folklife Festival, Friday–Monday, May 22–25
• Pagdiriwang Philippine Festival, Saturday–Sunday, June 6–7
• Indigenous People Festival, Saturday, June 13
• Seattle Iranian Festival, Saturday, June 27
• Polish Festival, Saturday, July 11
• Seattle Arab Festival, Saturday–Sunday, July 18–19
• A Day in Punjab, Saturday, Aug. 1
• Tibet Fest, Saturday–Sunday, Aug. 8–9
• BrasilFest, Sunday, Aug. 16
• Festival Sundiata Presents Black Arts Fest, Saturday–Sunday, Aug. 22–23
• Live Aloha Hawaiian Cultural Festival, Sunday, September 13
• Sea Mar Fiestas Patrias, Saturday–Sunday, Sept. 19–20
• The Italian Festival, Saturday–Sunday, Sept. 26–27
• CroatiaFest, Sunday, Oct. 4
• Turkfest, Saturday–Sunday, Oct. 10–11
• Día de Muertos Festival Seattle, Saturday–Sunday, Oct. 31–Nov. 1
• Diwali: Lights of India, Saturday, Nov. 7
• Seattle Hmong New Year, Saturday, Nov. 14
Admission/viewing is free of charge. Find more information at SeattleCenter.com or call 206-684-7200.
Pacific Science Center Opens Courtyard to the Public, Creating a New Gathering Space at Seattle Center
The Pacific Science Center has opened its courtyard to the public, offering Seattle residents and visitors a newly accessible outdoor space at the heart of Seattle Center. The move marks a shift toward greater openness and community use of the iconic campus, inviting people to linger, gather, and enjoy the space even without purchasing museum admission.
Long recognized for its distinctive arches and fountains, Pacific Science Center occupies a central location between landmarks such as the Space Needle and Climate Pledge Arena. Until now, much of the courtyard area functioned primarily as a transitional space for museum guests. Opening it fully to the public reimagines the courtyard as a destination in its own right.
Museum leaders say the change reflects a broader effort to make the campus more welcoming and integrated into daily life at Seattle Center. By removing barriers to access, the courtyard becomes a place for casual visits, quiet breaks, and spontaneous gatherings, whether someone is attending an event nearby or simply passing through.
The newly opened courtyard offers seating, open walkways, and views of the surrounding architecture that many Seattleites associate with childhood field trips and family outings. For longtime residents, the space may feel familiar but newly rediscovered. For visitors, it provides a calm, open-air contrast
to the bustle of the surrounding campus.
Pacific Science Center staff describe the courtyard as a flexible community space rather than a programmed venue. While it may occasionally host informal activities or serve as a backdrop for special events, its primary purpose is to remain open and accessible for everyday use. Visitors can sit, meet friends, eat lunch, or enjoy a quiet moment outdoors without needing a ticket or reservation.
The decision also aligns with a growing emphasis on public space as an essential part of urban life. In a city where green space and open gathering areas are highly valued, the courtyard adds another option for people seeking room to pause, connect, or recharge.
Opening the courtyard also reinforces Pacific Science Center’s mission beyond its exhibit halls. While the institution is best known for hands-on science exhibits and educational programming, leaders say science engagement also happens through curiosity, observation, and shared public experiences. A welcoming outdoor space supports that philosophy by encouraging exploration and informal learning in a less structured setting.
The courtyard’s location makes it especially appealing for families, students, and downtown workers. Parents can stop by with children for a break between activities. Students can gather outdoors after class or events. Office workers and visitors attending performances at nearby venues may find the space a
convenient place to meet before or after shows. Accessibility was a key consideration in opening the courtyard. The space is designed to be navigable and welcoming to people of all ages and abilities, supporting Pacific Science Center’s broader commitment to inclusion and equity. By opening the courtyard, the organization removes both physical and financial barriers that might otherwise limit who feels welcome on campus.
For Seattle Center as a whole, the courtyard opening adds to a network of public spaces that
support year-round activity. From festivals and concerts to quiet weekday afternoons, Seattle Center continues to evolve as a place that serves both large events and everyday moments.
While the museum’s indoor exhibits still require admission, Pacific Science Center leaders emphasize that the courtyard is intentionally separate from ticketed experiences. The goal is not to replace museum visits, but to extend the center’s presence into the surrounding public realm and strengthen its role as a civic gathering place.
As the courtyard begins its new chapter, Pacific Science Center invites the community to experience the space in their own way. Whether it becomes a favorite lunch spot, a meeting place before an event, or simply a pleasant path through Seattle Center, the open courtyard reflects a simple idea: public spaces are most powerful when they are truly open to the public.
The courtyard is now open during regular campus hours, offering Seattle a new place to pause, connect, and enjoy one of the city’s most recognizable cultural landmarks.
TS No WA07000286-25-1 TO No
250448090-WA-MSI NOTICE OF TRUST-
EE’S SALE PURSUANT TO THE REVISED CODE OF WASHINGTON CHAPTER 61.24 ET. SEQ. Grantor: DALE F SCHWIEGER, AS HIS SEPARATE ESTATE Current Beneficiary of the Deed of Trust: Longbridge Financial, LLC Original Trustee of the Deed of Trust: FIDELITY NATIONAL TITLE COMPANY OF WASHINGTON Current Trustee of the Deed of Trust: MTC Financial Inc. dba Trustee Corps Current Mortgage Servicer of the Deed of Trust: Celink Reference Number of the Deed of Trust: as Instrument Number 20200616002149 Parcel Number:
03030000900 I. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on February 27, 2026, 10:00 AM, at 4th Ave entrance King County Administration Building, located one block east of the Courthouse, 500 4th Ave, Seattle, WA, MTC Financial Inc. dba Trustee Corps, the undersigned Trustee, will sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder, payable, in the form of cash, or cashier’s check or certified checks from federally or State chartered banks, at the time of sale the following described real property, situated in the County of King, State of Washington, to-wit: LOT 4, BLOCK 2, AUBURN HEIGHTS PARK, DIVISION NO. 2, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 49 OF PLATS, PAGE 99, IN KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON. SITUATE IN THE COUNTY OF KING, STATE OF WASHINGTON. APN: 03030000900 More commonly known as 5234 S 305TH STREET, ALGONA, WA 98001 which is subject to that certain Deed of Trust dated June 10, 2020, executed by DALE F SCHWIEGER, AS HIS SEPARATE ESTATE as Trustor(s), to secure obligations in favor of MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., as designated nominee for FAIRWAY INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE
CORPORATION, Beneficiary of the security instrument, its successors and assigns, recorded June 16, 2020 as Instrument No. 20200616002149 and the beneficial interest was assigned to LONGBRIDGE FINANCIAL LLC, ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS and recorded May 28, 2025 as Instrument Number 20250528000172 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of King County, Washington. II. No action commenced by Longbridge Financial, LLC, the current Beneficiary of the Deed of Trust is now pending to seek satisfaction of the obligation in any Court by reason of the Borrowers’ or Grantors’ default on the obligation secured by the Deed of Trust/Mortgage. III. The default(s) for which this foreclosure is made is/are as follows: Failed to pay the principal balance which became all due and payable based upon the death of all mortgagors, pursuant to paragraph 7(A)(I) under the Note, and pursuant to paragraph 10(A)(I) of the Deed of Trust. PRINCIPAL AND INTEREST DUE INFORMATION Principal Balance as of October 31, 2025 $202,128.92.00 Interest due through October 31, 2025 $56,532.27 TOTAL PRINCIPAL BALANCE AND INTEREST DUE: $258,661.19 PROMISSORY NOTE INFORMATION Note Dated: June 10, 2020 Note Amount:$577,500.00 Interest Paid To: March 6, 2025 Next Due Date: April 6, 2025 Current Beneficiary: Longbridge Financial, LLC Contact Phone No: 866-446-0026 Address: 3900 Capital City Blvd, Lansing, MI 48906 IV. The sum owing on the obligation secured by the Deed of Trust is: The principal sum of $202,136.36, together with interest as provided in the Note or other instrument secured, 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 and the obligation secured by the Deed of Trust as provided by statute. Said sale will be made without warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession or encumbrances on February 27, 2026. The defaults referred to in Paragraph III must be paid by February 16, 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 February 16, 2026 (11 days before the sale) the default as set forth in Paragraph III is paid and the Trustees’ fees and costs are paid. Payment must be in cash or with cashiers’ or certified checks from a State or federally chartered bank. The sale may be terminated any time after the February 16, 2026 (11 days before the sale date) and before the sale, by the Borrower or Grantor or the holder of any recorded junior lien or encumbrance by paying the entire principal and interest secured by the Deed of Trust, plus costs, fees and advances, if any, made pursuant to the terms of the obligation and/or Deed of Trust, and curing all other defaults. VI. A written Notice of Default was transmitted by the current Beneficiary, Longbridge Financial, LLC or Trustee to the Borrower and Grantor at the following address(es): ADDRESS ESTATE OF DALE F SCHWIEGER 5234 S 305TH STREET, ALGONA, WA 98001 HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF DALE F SCHWIEGER 5234 S 305TH STREET, ALGONA, WA 98001 RONDA CARRERA, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR THE ESTATE OF DALE F. SCHWEIGER 5234 S 305TH STREET, ALGONA, WA 98001 RONDA CARRERA, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR THE ESTATE OF DALE F. SCHWEIGER 5234 S. 305TH ST., AUBURN, WA 98001 DALE F SCHWIEGER 5234 S 305TH STREET, ALGONA, WA 98001 UNKNOWN
5234 S 305TH ST, AUBURN, WA 98001-2712 LLOYD SHAN-
NON SCHWIEGER 1852 STATE ROUTE 506,, VADER, WA 98593-9733 MATTHEW S SCHWIEGER 12041 56TH PL S, SEATTLE, WA 98178-3503 MATTHEW S SCHWIEGER 5234 S. 305th St, AUBURN, WA 98801 RONDA JANE CARRERA 2412 POPLAR ST SE APT B, , AUBURN, WA 98092-7202 Tonya Serrano 3920 Southgate Ave. SW, LAKEWOOD, WA 98499 by both first class and certified mail on September 24, 2025, proof of which is in the possession of the Trustee; and the Borrower and Grantor were personally served with said written Notice of Default or the written Notice of Default was posted September 24, 2025 in a conspicuous place on the real property described in Paragraph I above, and the Trustee has possession of proof of such service or posting. VII. The Trustee whose name and address are 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 the Grantor of all their interest in the above described property. IX. Anyone having any objections to this 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 Trustees’ Sale. X. Notice to Occupants or Tenants. 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 who are not tenants. After the 20th day following the sale the purchaser has the right to evict occupants who are not tenants by summary proceedings under chapter 59.12 RCW. For tenant-occupied property, the purchaser shall provide a tenant with written notice in accordance with RCW 61.24.060. Notice to Borrower(s) who received a letter under RCW 61.24.031: THIS NOTICE IS THE FINAL STEP BEFORE THE FORECLOSURE SALE OF YOUR HOME. Dated: October 24, 2025 MTC Financial Inc. dba Trustee Corps, as Duly Appointed Successor Trustee By: Alan Burton, Vice President MTC Financial Inc. dba Trustee Corps 606 W. Gowe Street Kent, WA 98032 Toll Free Number: (844) 367-8456 TDD: 711 949.252.8300 For Pay Off Quotes, contact MTC Financial Inc. DBA Trustee Corps Order Number 118239, Pub Dates: 01/28/2026, 02/18/2026, QUEEN ANNE & MAGNOLIA NEWS
TS No WA07000289-25-1 TO No 3612633
NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE PURSUANT TO THE REVISED CODE OF WASHINGTON CHAPTER 61.24 ET. SEQ. Grantor: SANDRA LARSEN, AN UNMARRIED WOMAN Current Beneficiary of the Deed of Trust: Finance of America Reverse LLC Original Trustee of the Deed of Trust: ALLEGIANT REVERSE SERVICES Current Trustee of the Deed of Trust: MTC Financial Inc. dba Trustee Corps Current Mortgage Servicer of the Deed of Trust: Celink Reference Number of the Deed of Trust: Instrument No. 20171006000765
Parcel Number: 085420-0015-06 | 0854200015 I. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on February 27, 2026, 10:00 AM, at 4th Ave entrance King County Administration Building, located one block east of the Courthouse, 500 4th Ave, Seattle, WA, MTC Financial Inc. dba Trustee Corps, the undersigned Trustee, will sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder, payable, in the form of cash, or cashier’s check or certified checks from federally or State chartered banks, at the time of sale the following described real property, situated in the County of King, State of Washington, to-wit: LOT(S) 3, BLAKLEY MANOR DIVISION NO. 3, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 54 OF PLATS, PAGE(S) 96, IN KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON. APN: 085420-0015-06 | 085420-0015 More commonly known as 300 S 165TH STREET, BURIEN, WA 98148 which is subject to that certain Deed of Trust dated September 25, 2017, executed by SANDRA LARSEN, AN UNMARRIED WOMAN as Trustor(s), to secure obligations in favor of MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., as designated nominee for LAND HOME FINANCIAL SERVICES, Beneficiary of the security instrument, its successors and assigns, recorded October 6, 2017 as Instrument No. 20171006000765 and rerecorded March 30, 2018 as Instrument No. 20180330000111 and the beneficial interest was assigned to FINANCE OF AMERICA REVERSE LLC, ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS and recorded April 4, 2022 as Instrument Number 20220404000031 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of King County, Washington. II. No action commenced by Finance of America Reverse LLC, the current Beneficiary of the Deed of Trust is now pending to seek satisfaction of the obligation in any Court by reason of the Borrowers’ or Grantors’ default on the obligation secured by the Deed of Trust/Mortgage. III. The default(s) for which this foreclosure is made is/are as follows: FAILURE TO PAY WHEN DUE THE FOLLOWING AMOUNTS WHICH ARE NOW IN ARREARS: DELINQUENT INSURANCE/TAX INFORMATION From February 17, 2022 To October 23, 2025 Total $13,747.73 PROMISSORY NOTE INFORMATION Note Dated: September 25, 2017 Note Amount $780,000.00
Interest Paid To: January 17, 2022 Next Due Date: February 17, 2022 Current Beneficiary: Finance of America Reverse
secured by the Deed of Trust is: The principal sum of $257,700.75, together with interest as provided in the Note or other instrument secured, 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 and the obligation secured by the Deed of Trust as provided by statute. Said sale will be made without warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession or encumbrances on February 27, 2026. The defaults referred to in Paragraph III must be cured by February 16, 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 February 16, 2026 (11 days before the sale) the default as set forth in Paragraph III is cured and the Trustees’ fees and costs are paid. Payment must be in cash or with cashiers’ or certified checks from a State or federally chartered bank. The sale may be terminated any time after the February 16, 2026 (11 days before the sale date) and before the sale, by the Borrower or Grantor or the holder of any recorded junior lien or encumbrance by paying the entire principal and interest secured by the Deed of Trust, plus costs, fees and advances, if any, made pursuant to the terms of the obligation and/or Deed of Trust, and curing all other defaults. VI. A written Notice of Default was transmitted by the current Beneficiary, Finance of America Reverse LLC or Trustee to the Borrower and Grantor at the following address(es): ADDRESS SANDRA LARSEN 300 S 165TH STREET, BURIEN, WA 98148 SANDRA LARSEN 300 S 165TH ST, SEATTLE, WA 98148 SANDRA LARSEN 300 SOUTH 165TH STREET, SEATTLE, WA 98108 OCCUPANT 300 S 165TH STREET, BURIEN, WA 98148 UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF SANDRA LARSEN 300 S 165TH STREET, BURIEN, WA 98148 by both first class and certified mail on September 24, 2025, proof of which is in the possession of the Trustee; and the Borrower and Grantor were personally served with said written Notice of Default or the written Notice of Default was posted in a conspicuous place September 24, 2025 on the real property described in Paragraph I above, and the Trustee has possession of proof of such service or posting. VII. The Trustee whose name and address are 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 the Grantor of all their interest in the above described property. IX. Anyone having any objections to this 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 Trustees’ Sale. X. Notice to Occupants or Tenants. 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 who are not tenants. After the 20th day following the sale the purchaser has the right to evict occupants who are not tenants by summary proceedings under chapter 59.12 RCW. For tenant-occupied property, the purchaser shall provide a tenant with written notice in accordance with RCW 61.24.060. Notice to Borrower(s) who received a letter under RCW 61.24.031: THIS NOTICE IS THE FINAL STEP BEFORE THE FORECLOSURE SALE OF YOUR HOME. Mediation MUST be requested between the time you receive the Notice of Default and no later than 90 calendar days BEFORE the date of sale listed in the Notice of Trustee Sale. If an amended Notice of Trustee Sale is recorded providing a 45-day notice of the sale, mediation must be requested no later than 25 calendar days BEFORE the date of sale listed in the amended Notice of Trustee Sale. DO NOT DELAY. CONTACT A HOUSING COUNSELOR OR AN ATTORNEY LICENSED IN WASHINGTON NOW to assess your situation and refer you to mediation if you might eligible and it may help you save your home. See below for safe sources of help. SEEKING ASSISTANCE Housing counselors and legal assistance may be available at little or no cost to you. If you would like assistance in determining your rights and opportunities to keep your house, you may contact the following: The statewide foreclosure hotline for assistance and referral to housing counselors recommended by the Washington State Housing Finance Commission: Toll-free: 1-877-894-HOME (1-877-8944663) Website: https://www.homeownership-wa.org/ The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development: Toll-free: 1-800-569-4287 Website: https:// answers.hud.gov/ housingcounseling/s/?language=en_US The statewide civil legal aid hotline for assistance and referrals to other housing counselors and attorneys: Toll-free: 1-800606-4819 Website: https://nwjustice.org/ home Dated: October 24, 2025 MTC Financial Inc. dba Trustee Corps, as Duly Appointed Successor Trustee By: Alan Burton, Vice President MTC Financial Inc. dba Trustee Corps 606 W. Gowe Street Kent, WA 98032-5744 Toll Free Number: (844) 367-8456 TDD: 711 949.252.8300 For Reinstatement/Pay Off Quotes, contact MTC Financial Inc. DBA Trustee Corps Order Number 118231, Pub Dates: 01/28/2026, 02/18/2026, QUEEN ANNE & MAGNOLIA NEWS
CROSSWORD
AI Therapy Chatbots Draw New Oversight as Suicides Raise Alarm
by Shalina Chatlani Statline
Editor’s note: If you or someone you know needs help, the national suicide and crisis lifeline in the U.S. is available by calling or texting 988. There is also an online chat at 988lifeline.org.
States are passing laws to prevent artificially intelligent chatbots from offering mental health advice to young users, following reports of people harming themselves after seeking therapy-like interactions from AI programs.
Chatbots may be able to offer resources, direct users to mental health practitioners, or suggest coping strategies. But many mental health experts say that is a fine line to walk, particularly for vulnerable users in crisis who require care from licensed professionals bound by laws and ethical standards.
“I have met some of the families who have really tragically lost their children following interactions that their kids had with chatbots that were designed, in some cases, to be extremely deceptive, if not manipulative, in encouraging kids to end their lives,” said Mitch Prinstein, senior science adviser at the American Psychological Association and an expert on technology and children’s mental health.
“In such egregious situations, it’s clear that something’s not working right, and we need at least some guardrails to help in situations like that,” he said.
While chatbots have existed for decades, recent advances in artificial intelligence have made them far more sophisticated, to the point that users may feel they are interacting with a real person. Experts say these
Teresa Ann Kaul passed away December 5, 2025 at Auburn Medical Center. She was surrounded by family at the time of her death.
Teresa was born in Seattle April 15, 1957 and lived on Queen Anne Hill most of her life. She lived in the family home and later in life at Queen Anne Manor before moving to Alaska Gardens Health & Rehabilitation Center in Tacoma in 2022. Three months prior to her death Teresa lived at Renewed Life Adult Family Home in Kent.
Many friends and acquaintances on Queen Anne would stop to visit Teresa as she made her daily walks to Starbucks all bundled up in her heavy coat and stocking cap with cane in hand. Sometimes raising that cane as she crossed the street at Queen Anne & Boston to make sure the cars would stop.
Teresa was amazing. From an early age she would take Metro everywhere. She could tell you at the snap of a finger what bus to take to get anywhere in the city. Even as a passenger in the car she could direct family members what turns to take. It may have not been the most direct route, as she would follow the bus line, but she got us to where we wanted to go.
Teresa loved her family and always wanted to know how everyone was doing and what was going on in their lives. She loved celebrating holidays & birthdays, especially her own birthday. She loved dogs and walked many neighbors’ dogs while growing up on Queen
systems lack the ability to provide true empathy or clinical care and are often designed to be agreeable, which can be dangerous for users experiencing suicidal thoughts.
In response, states have enacted a range of laws regulating how chatbots interact with users. Illinois and Nevada have banned the use of AI for behavioral health. New York and Utah require chatbots to explicitly disclose that they are not human. New York’s law also requires systems
DeSantis proposed a “Citizen Bill of Rights for Artificial Intelligence” that would prohibit AI from being used for licensed therapy or mental health counseling and require parental controls for minors.
“The rise of AI is the most significant economic and cultural shift occurring at the moment,” DeSantis wrote on social media in November, adding that leaving regulation solely to technology companies would be harmful.
to detect potential self-harm and direct users to crisis hotlines and other interventions.
More legislation may be on the way. California and Pennsylvania are among the states considering measures to regulate AI-based therapy.
President Donald Trump has criticized state-by-state regulation of artificial intelligence, arguing it limits innovation. In December, he signed an executive order intended to support U.S. “global AI dominance” by overriding state AI laws and establishing a national framework. Despite that, states continue to move forward. Before Trump’s executive order, Florida Gov. Ron
‘A FALSE SENSE OF INTIMACY’
At a U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee hearing last September, parents shared stories about losing their children after ongoing interactions with AI chatbots.
Sewell Setzer III was 14 years old when he died by suicide in 2024 after becoming deeply engaged with a chatbot.
“Instead of preparing for high school milestones, Sewell spent his last months being manipulated and sexually groomed by chatbots designed by an AI company to seem human, to gain trust, and to keep children like him endlessly engaged,”
Teresa Ann Kaul
April 15, 1957 – December 5, 2025
Anne. Teresa even had a paper route and delivered the Queen Anne News long ago. She enjoyed listening to music and listening to the Huskies and Seahawks games on her transistor radio.
Teresa was so resilient. She always bounced back from any hardship she faced. She will be greatly missed. We’re happy for her to be at peace in heaven, but sad for all of us whose lives she touched so deeply.
Teresa was preceded in death by her parents M.W. & Elizabeth Kaul; brothers Harry and Bob Kaul; sister Karen Kaul; and niece Andrea Kaul. She is
survived by her sisters Linda Norris of Seattle and Jeanette Madden (Randy) of Laramie, WY; and numerous nieces & nephews.
Teresa was celebrated by family and friends with a funeral service December 12, 2025 at St. Anne Catholic Church. She was laid to rest next to family at Holyrood Cemetery, Shoreline.
In Teresa’s memory, we ask for kindness to be shown through compassionate actions, kind words, generosity, encouragement, respect, forgiveness and understanding to all of those you may encounter with special needs.
his mother, Megan Garcia, said during the hearing.
Matthew Raine testified about his son Adam, who died by suicide at age 16 after months of interactions with ChatGPT, owned by OpenAI.
“We’re convinced that Adam’s death was avoidable,” Raine said, adding that other teens may be at risk.
Prinstein said children are particularly vulnerable to chatbot interactions.
“By agreeing with everything that kids say, it develops a false sense of intimacy and trust,” he said. “That’s really concerning, because kids are still developing their brains.”
In September, the Federal Trade Commission launched an inquiry into seven companies producing AI-powered chatbots, asking what safeguards are in place to protect children.
“AI chatbots can effectively mimic human characteristics, emotions, and intentions,” the FTC said, noting that such design may encourage users, especially minors, to trust and form relationships with them.
Companies including OpenAI say they are working with mental health experts to improve safety and reduce the risk of harm.
“Working with mental health experts who have real-world clinical experience, we’ve taught the model to better recognize distress, deescalate conversations, and guide people toward professional care,” the company said in a statement last October.
LEGISLATIVE EFFORTS
With federal action uncertain, state-level regulation has seen mixed success.
Dr. John “Nick” Shumate, a psychiatrist at Harvard’s Beth Israel
Deaconess Medical Center, reviewed AI and mental health legislation introduced between January 2022 and May 2025. The review identified 143 bills, with 11 states enacting 20 laws that directly regulate mental health-related AI interactions.
Shumate said laws generally focus on professional oversight, harm prevention, patient autonomy, and data governance.
New York Democratic state Sen. Kristen Gonzalez, who sponsored her state’s chatbot law, said the mental health crisis should not be addressed by replacing licensed professionals with untrained AI.
“There’s no denying that we’re in a mental health crisis,” Gonzalez said. “But the solution shouldn’t be to replace human support with chatbots.”
In Virginia, Democratic Del. Michelle Maldonado is preparing legislation that would limit what chatbots can communicate in therapeutic settings, citing slow federal action.
New York Democratic state Sen. Andrew Gounardes said AI companies are increasing their influence at the state level through lobbying and outreach.
“These are the wealthiest, biggest companies in the world,” he said. “We can’t let up our guard against that kind of concentrated power.”
Stateline reporter Shalina Chatlani can be reached at schatlani@stateline.org.
This story was originally produced by Stateline, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network which includes Washington State Standard, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.
