Queen Anne News 05-15-2024

Queen Anne &Magnolia news

Queen Anne &Magnolia news

Spectacular light show in Seattle

Most people that live in the Pacific Northwest have heard about aurora borealis, or the Northern Lights. But because of their elusive beauty and further complicated by the Seattle weather, they are rarely seen in our area.

Last Friday, Seattleites were treated to a rare occurrence when a severe geomagnetic storm produced Northern Lights. By most counts, it was the

Leiweke to be honored as the 86th

Seattle King County First Citizen

Submitted

A capacity crowd is expected on May 16 when Seattle Kraken CEO Tod Leiweke is honored as the 86th Seattle King County First Citizen. Three speakers and some past recipients of the prestigious award will be among those celebrating a leader one colleague says “makes miracles happen.”

A few tickets remain for the civic banquet at The Westin Bellevue. The event, scheduled from 5:30-8:30 pm, includes dinner preceded by a no-host reception. Held annually since 1939, the event commemorates community leadership, volunteers and civic engagement. Reservations may be made online or by calling Seattle King County Realtors (SKCR) at 425-974-1015.

Guest speakers at this year’s First Citizen banquet include Jay Deutsch, CEO and co-founder, BDA, Inc.; Mari Horita, Seattle Kraken senior VP, Foundation; DEI & Government Relations; and Gary Wright, consultant, World Cup Organization Committee and former Seattle Seahawks executive.

Kraken team broadcaster Everett Fitzhugh will serve as master of ceremonies. Michael Orbino, SKCR’s 2024 president, will present the First Citizen Award.

Also part of the evening’s festivities will be recognition of more than two dozen recipients of Seattle King County First Citizen Foundation scholarships. Among criteria for the scholarships are good citizenship and involvement in community service in the spirit of the First Citizen Award. In honor of “their dear friend and former CEO,” the Tampa Bay Lightning donated $10,000 to the scholarship fund. Leiweke was CEO there from 2010-2015. Broker Michele Liang, chair of the First Citizen Committee, said Leiweke “exemplifies being an inspiring mentor, devoted volunteer, and accomplished business executive,” adding “We’re thrilled to honor and thank this exceptionally deserving and generous

Story and photos by Laura Marie Rivera

The Northern Lights from Lynn Street in Queen Anne overlooking Lake Union.

Northern Lights from Kerry Park.

Tod Leiweke

Queen Anne & Magnolia Worship Services

Sunday Worship at 10am Live Streamed on our Facebook page and YouTube. Simply look for Magnolia Lutheran Church.

Twelfth Church of Christ, Scientist

In Person and Online Church Services

All are welcome & warmly invited to join these healing services

For best audio results, please join by clicking on the link from your computer or smartphone and choose “Call Over Internet”

All Zoom Services Meeting ID: 418 806 2637 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4188062637

Sunday Services 11:00am – 12noon Pacific

Wednesday Testimonies 7:30pm – 8:30pm Pacific

Christian Science Quarterly Bible Lessons

Our weekly Bible Lesson Sermon may be found here: https://quarterly.christianscience.com/

Additional Healing Resources: ChristianScience.com CSWashington.com SeattleMetroReadingRoom.org

For additional assistance, please contact us at seattle12cs@gmail.com or 206.283.2300 ChristianScienceTwelfthSeattle.com

For a Healthier You CHIROPRACTORS

DENTISTS

Queen Anne Dental Group

Dr. Frank J. Calvo & Family

Cosmetic, Implant, & General Dentistry

400 Boston St. 206-284-7812 www.QADG.net

Chiropractic AND Massage Therapy

SERVING THE FAMILIES OF QUEEN ANN E SINCE 1991 1905 Queen Anne Ave N • 206.282.8275 www.QueenAnneChiro.com

Darrell Gibson, D.C. • Sarah Gibson, D.C. Graeme Gibson, D.C.

David E. Goodall III, LMT

Sarah Rose Nottingham, LMT Lauren E. Traynor, LMT

Six-week period of Link light rail service disruptions underway

Submitted

Link 1 Line service is undergoing a series of disruptions as crews work to connect the line to future extensions and perform necessary maintenance. The work will impact riders in different ways. Some disruptions will affect only a few stations or late-night service, while others will have a much broader impact. The timing of the work will allow Sound Transit to avoid impacting even more passengers after the 1 Line extension to Lynnwood opens on Aug. 30.

The following is a rundown of the upcoming service disruptions.

Limited service between SeaTac/Airport and Angle Lake stations. The longest period of work will occur between SeaTac/Airport and Angle Lake stations through June 22. During that time, crews will be doing work to connect the Federal Way Link Extension into the existing 1 Line. The work will also allow Sound Transit to store additional light rail vehicles just south of Angle Lake Station.

The additional cars are important for adding capacity for the Lynnwood extension. This was part of the creative solution that was developed to fill the gap until the 2 Line fully opens and provides access to the Operations and Maintenance Facility in Bellevue.

During the work period, a separate train will run between SeaTac/Airport and Angle Lake stations every 16-20 minutes. Southbound passengers continuing to Angle Lake Station will need to get off at SeaTac/Airport Station and get on this train. Similarly, northbound passengers traveling from Angle Lake Station past SeaTac/Airport Station will need to deboard and catch a northbound train at SeaTac/Airport Station. Passengers traveling to and from Angle Lake may consider transferring to the A Lineat Tukwila International Blvd. Station for a quicker transfer experience during this time. There will be no Link service between the two stations all day June 1, June 2 until 10 a.m. and all day June 22. On those days, passengers will need to board the Rapid Ride A Line at no charge, one block from Angle Lake Station on International Boulevard to

continue their journey.

Reduced service between Stadium and SeaTac/Airport stations. On June 1 and 2, crews will be doing platform repair work at the Columbia City Station. Trains will be single tracking as one platform in each direction will be closed on each day.

During this time, trains will run every 10 minutes between Northgate and Stadium stations and every 20 minutes between Stadium and SeaTac/Airport stations. Southbound trains originating at Northgate will alternate between terminating at Stadium and continuing on to SeaTac/ Airport. Passengers heading beyond Stadium Station should read the head signs on the train to avoid having to transfer. Passengers on northbound trains will not need to transfer.

Downtown stations closure. Starting at 10 p.m. on June 21, downtown Seattle stations will be closed through June 23 to allow crews to do tie-in work for the Eastlink extension. Trains will run every 15 minutes between Northgate and Capitol Hill stations and between SODO and SeaTac/Airport stations. (On June 23, service will have been restored to Angle Lake Station, so trains will run all the way from SODO to Angle Lake.) Bus shuttles will be running between Capitol Hill and SODO stations every 10 to 15 minutes. Late night rail replacement. Every Tuesday night between through June 25, trains will run every 20 minutes starting at 11 p.m. to allow for rail replacement work.

Additional information about the service disruptions is available at https://www. soundtransit.org/ride-withus/1-line-service-disruption

During these disruptions, passengers traveling through the area should allow for additional time for their trip. Information about alternative routes can be found at https:// www.soundtransit.org/ ride-with-us/changes-affectmy-ride/navigating-servicedisruptions

Lawmaker hopes to ensure WA bridges aren't vulnerable to Baltimore bridge collapse

By Carleen Johnson

The Center Square

More than five weeks after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore, the remains of a fifth construction worker were recovered on Wednesday. The victim was identified as Miguel Angel Luna Gonzalez, 49, of Glen Burnie, Md., state officials said in a news release. Gonzalez was one of six workers who went missing in the collapse. One additional worker remains missing.

It was just before sunrise on March 26 when the cargo ship Dali lost power and hit the bridge, causing it to collapse into

the Patapsco River.

The devastating event has inspired new legislation from a lawmaker who hopes to avoid something similar happening in Washington state.

“What happened in Baltimore with the bridge collapse and most importantly the loss of life, it creates an issue for us to think about our bridges and with these massive ships, what could that mean," said state Sen. Jeff Wilson, R-Longview. “Baltimore made it clear it's time to look at our bridges in Washington.”

Free outdoor yoga classes in Lake Union Park this summer

Flow Fitness is hosting Flow in the Park - a series of free yoga classes this summer on the waterfront at beautiful Lake Union Park.

Last year’s event attracted almost 200 people each week. This year, between 300-400 people are expected at each event this week. The presenting sponsor this year is Sweetgreen which is a national fast casual restaurant chain focused on healthy foods.

Each week will be offering a 60-minute yoga class appropriate for all levels that are taught by some of the top instructors in the area. In addition to offering great yoga classes, Flow in the Park will have a fun, festive environment and feature a live DJ, giveaways and special offers from Sweetgreen and our other sponsors and a weekly raffle including a free yoga mat and 40% coupons from athletic and active clothing retailer Vuori.

Flow in the Park was created as a way for people to connect with nature, their health, and others in the community.

Get moving, connect with friends and family every Wednesday from 6-7 p.m. from July 10 to Aug. 28. This event is organized by Flow Fitness and participants can view details and register at https:// www.eventbrite.com/e/flow-in-the-park-free-yogain-lake-union-park-tickets-896526293277

For more information on Flow Fitness, go to https://www.flowfitnessseattle.com/

2024 Awards Banquet Celebration

Join us to honor the people and places that make Queen Anne special!

Thursday, May 23, 2024, 6-9 pm.

Location: Seattle Elks Lodge #92 3014 3rd Ave. N., Seattle Tickets: $20 QA Historical members, $35 general public Register online: qahistory.org under Events.

2024 AWARD WINNERS: Targy’s Tavern, QA Masonic Lodge renovation team, QA Farmer’s Market, Owners of the Handschy House, and the Cascade Parent Partnership at North QA School.

Put the farro in risotto

by Lynda Balslev

Hearty farro replaces rice in this satisfying one-pot dish that looks to risotto for inspiration. Traditional risotto is made with Arborio rice, which is more neutral in flavor than farro. The rice releases its starch while constantly stirred and slowly cooked in a flavorful broth, resulting in a creamy risotto.

Farro, in contrast, is a hearty ancient wheat grain with a nutty, wholesome flavor. It holds its shape when cooked and is not prone to overcooking and creaminess, resulting in a comforting, toothsome dish.

Earthy mushrooms complement the rustic farro in this dish, adding rich umami flavor. You can use wild mushrooms, such as chanterelles or shiitakes, or cremini in a pinch. Sweet peas contrast and brighten the earthiness of the dish with color and pops of juicy sweetness. For the stock, use a good-quality chicken stock or mushroom stock to amplify flavor and keep the dish vegetarianfriendly.

FARROTTO WITH WILD MUSHROOMS AND PEAS

Active Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Yield: Serves 4

▶ 4 cups chicken or mushroom stock

▶ Kosher salt

▶ 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

LIGHTS from Page 1Æ

greatest show in the last twenty years. And as luck would have it, the storm coincided with clear skies for optimal viewing.

Locals started to prepare when reports of the storm circulated in the news. And as the west coast waited for the sun to set, people from other times zones were sharing their photos online. While aurora enthusiasts usually head away from the light pollution of the cities, this storm was powerful enough that the show could be seen from right here in the city.

▶ 8 ounces wild mushrooms, such as shiitakes or chanterelles, cleaned and trimmed (halved or quartered if large)

▶ Freshly ground black pepper

▶ 2 shallots, finely chopped, about 1/4 cup

▶ 1 large garlic clove, minced or pushed through a press

▶ 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

▶ 1 1/4 cups semi-pearled farro, rinsed

▶ 1/2 cup dry white wine

▶ 1/2 cup fresh cooked peas or defrosted frozen peas

▶ 1/4 cup finely grated

Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, plus more for garnish

▶ 2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley leaves

▶ 2 tablespoons chopped chives

▶ 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

▶ Bring the stock and 1 teaspoon salt to a simmer in a saucepan. Reduce the heat to low and keep warm.

▶ Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a deep skillet. Add the mushrooms and season with salt and black pepper. Saute until the mushrooms begin to release their juices and brown in spots, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer to a plate.

▶ Add 1 tablespoon oil to the same skillet. Add the shallots and saute over medium heat until softened, about 2 minutes. Add the garlic and thyme and stir until fragrant. Add the farro and stir to coat and lightly toast the grains, about 30 seconds.

Pour in the wine and simmer until the wine is nearly absorbed, stirring occasionally.

▶ Begin adding the stock, 1 cup at a time. Add the next cup when the previous liquid has been nearly absorbed, stirring occasionally, until the last cup has been absorbed and the farro is tender, about 30 minutes. (If needed, add a little more stock or hot water to achieve the desired consistency.)

philanthropist and community leader.”

About the First Citizen Award:

The Seattle King County First Citizen Award salutes “giving back” whether by “time, treasure or talent” and civic engagement that enhances the region’s quality of life. Past recipients hail from both the public and private sectors, ranging from humanitarian groups, corporations, charitable, health and educational institutions, to various arts, environmental, and civic organizations. Recent honorees include former Seattle Storm standout player and community advocate Sue Bird (2023), Mary’s Place (2022), and Dr. Ben Danielson, pediatrician and community advocate (2021).

▶ Stir in the mushrooms, peas, cheese, parsley, chives and lemon juice. Taste for seasoning and add more salt and black pepper to your taste. Ladle into serving bowls. Garnish with cheese and serve immediately.

Lynda Balslev is an award-winning writer, cookbook author, and recipe developer based in northern California. Visit TasteFood at TasteFoodblog.com.

celebration of civic engagement presented by Seattle King County Realtors® in partnership with Zillow and Windermere Real Estate, plus gold event sponsors BDA, Oak View Group, and Seattle Kraken Team Store. Other sponsors include signature sponsors COMPASS, First American Title and Helsell Fetterman. Cascade PBS is the media sponsor, Tinte Cellars is the wine sponsor and Stone Insulation is the reception sponsor.

Neighbors in Queen Anne reported being able to see the lights from their porches and backyards. But some went “chasing the aurora” throughout the neighborhood. At 11:00pm, the lights were flaring and there was a large group of people at the Lynn Street lookout facing east. One lady reported having been there since sunset. And many went down to Kerry Park to enjoy the lights.

Since its inception in 1939, the First Citizen Award, believed to be this region’s oldest such recognition, continues to celebrate community leadership, volunteerism, and public service.

The civic banquet to honor the annual recipients is a not-for-profit

About the Seattle King County REALTORS®: The Seattle King County Realtors® is a nonprofit professional trade association whose goals include promoting ethical business practices and supporting policies that preserve and expand real property rights and housing affordability. Based in Bellevue, SKCR has more than 6,500 members and is a local board of the National Association of Realtors®. The term Realtor® is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of Realtors® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.

LEIWEKE from Page 1Æ

Adobe Stock Image

Photo credit

The Northern Lights from Lynn Street in Queen Anne overlooking Lake Union.

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 June 3, 2024 (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, Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC or Trustee to the Borrower and Grantor at the following address(es): ADDRESS CASEY

WILLIS 9242 S 240TH PL, KENT, WA 980304794 CASEY WILLIS 10605 SOUTHEAST 261ST PLACE, UNIT D102, KENT, WA 98030 CASEY WILLIS 309 W ARLINGTON AVE, SAINT PAUL, MN 55117 CASEY WILLIS 9210 S 240TH PL, KENT, WA 98030 by both first class and certified mail on January

3, 2024, 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 January 4, 2024 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 Housing Finance Commission: Telephone: (877) 894-4663 or (800) 606-4819 Website: www.wshfc.org The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development: Telephone: (800) 569-4287 Website: www. hud.gov The statewide civil legal aid hotline for assistance and referrals to other housing counselors and attorneys: Telephone: (800) 606-4819 Website: www.homeownership. wa.gov Dated: February 9, 2024 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 Reinstatement/Pay Off Quotes, contact MTC Financial Inc. DBA Trustee Corps Order Number 100030, Pub Dates: 05/15/2024, 06/05/2024, QUEEN ANNE & MAGNOLIA NEWS

TS No WA07000227-23-1 TO No 230391742-WA-MSI NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE PURSUANT TO THE REVISED CODE OF WASHINGTON CHAPTER 61.24 ET. SEQ. Grantor: TODD B. DOWS, UN

OF PLATS, PAGE 50, IN KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON;EXCEPT THE SOUTH 25 FEET THEREOF;TOGETHER WITH AN UNDIVIDED ONE HALF INTEREST IN THE SOUTH 25 FEET OF SAID LOT 11, LYING WEST OF THE EAST 100 FEET THEREOF. APN: 663290-0389 More commonly known as 15240 12TH AVENUE NE, SHORELINE, WA 98155 which is subject to that certain Deed of Trust dated November 8, 2021, executed by TODD B. DOWS, UNMARRIED, AS HIS SEPARATE ESTATE as Trustor(s), to secure obligations in favor of MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., as designated nominee for HOMETOWN LENDERS, INC, Beneficiary of the security instrument, its successors and assigns, recorded November 16, 2021 as Instrument No. 20211116000323 and the beneficial interest was assigned to Longbridge Financial, LLC and recorded May 31, 2023 as Instrument Number 20230531001171 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 under the Note, and pursuant to paragraph 10 of the Deed of Trust. PRINCIPAL AND INTEREST DUE INFORMATION Principal Balance as of April 20, 2023 $0.00 Interest due through February 7, 2024 $39,198.79 TOTAL PRINCIPAL BALANCE AND INTEREST DUE: $39,198.79 PROMISSORY NOTE INFORMATION Note Dated: November 8, 2021

Note Amount:$1,057,500.00 Interest Paid

To: March 20, 2023 Next Due Date: April 20, 2023 Current Beneficiary: Longbridge Financial, LLC Contact Phone No: 800-441-4428 Address: 101 West Louis Henna Blvd. Suite 450, Austin, TX 78728 IV. The sum owing on the obligation secured by the Deed of Trust is: The principal sum of $289,331.41, 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 June 14, 2024. The defaults referred to in Paragraph III must be paid by June 3, 2024, (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 June 3, 2024 (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 June 3, 2024 (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 TODD B DOWS 15240 12TH AVENUE NE, SHORELINE, WA 98155 by both first class and certified mail on September 6, 2023, 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 6, 2023 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: February 7,2024 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 99967, Pub Dates: 05/15/2024, 06/05/2024, QUEEN ANNE & MAGNOLIA NEWS

A shining night with Magnolia Chorale

Submitted

Magnolia Chorale’s 35th anniversary concerts on May 4-5 were a hit! With full houses for both the Saturday Evening Gala and the Sunday Matinee concert, the Chorale sang audiences down memory lane with favorites from past decades and a few new additions. The range of music reflected the group’s long history of performing a broad range of musical styles from classical, to pop, to gospel, and more.

Those in attendance

Seattle

included past music directors, assistant directors, singers, and board members—some attended both concerts. It was clear that even those who are no longer active members have fond memories of their time with the Chorale. And, judging from the standing ovation, the audience shared that sentiment.

Magnolia Chorale goes on hiatus over the summer and will resume rehearsals in September. New members are welcome. Go to magnoliachorale.org for more details.

Public Schools to reveal plan on Wednesday to fix $104M budget deficit

By Spencer Pauley The Center Square

Seattle Public Schools is set to present an update on Wednesday to its “well-resourced schools” plan to address a $104 million budget deficit.

According to the school district, Superintendent Brent Jones is not recommending any school closures or consolidations for the 2024-25 school year. However, the district also said that underenrolled schools could be consolidated or closed in the future.

Closing a school could save Seattle Public Schools between $750,000 to $2 million.

LOCAL AGENTS

The projected deficit of $104 million for the 2024-2025 school year could increase to $129 million for 2025-2026, and $153 million for the 2026-2027 school year if the district fails to approve a plan that balances the budget.

The district has cited insufficient funding from the state, a decline in enrollment, and previous staffing decisions as the primary reasons for the structural shortfall.

Enrollment at Seattle Public Schools is approximately 48,000 students across 104 school buildings. From 2019 through 2023, enrollment at the district has decreased by 4,900 students, which has resulted in an $81 million drop in revenue.

District enrollment peaked in 1964 with 94,042 students throughout 117 buildings.

According to a resolution being presented to the school board on Wednesday night, Jones could look more into possible reductions and adjustments in school staffing allocations.

The district’s definition of “well-resourced schools” is a central hub for students, staff, and community. The aim is to ensure every student receives education tailored to their academic, social, and emotional needs.

The Seattle Public Schools School Board is scheduled to vote on a final budget in July.

BRIDGES from Page 3Æ

Wilson, in a news release, said he plans to introduce a bill during the 2025 legislative session to study the vulnerability of bridges on Washington waterways to impacts from commercial vessels. Pier protection would be a major focus, including fenders and artificial reefs known as “dolphins” that ground ships before they can strike.

Wilson told The Center Square he's most concerned about the Lewis and Clark Bridge in Longview.

“On the Columbia River, known as a federal highway for imports and exports, the river is a priority for grain and goods and services," he said. "That makes it critical that it remains open.”

The bridge's age is a concern.

“Longview has a unique story," Wilson said. "It’s a 95-year-old bridge, and it’s

well past operating over its original design capacity."

The Washington State Department of Transportation got rid of impact barriers around the footings of the bridge, according to the senator.

"In the 1990s those barriers were removed," Wilson explained. "I’m not really sure why they did that. Maybe it was high cost of maintenance or something, but my focus now is if we could removed those protections, was there something we could have done in place of it?"

Wilson says he’s continuing to work with WSDOT to get a better understanding as to why that decision was made.

“It’s ironic that at one time, somebody thought the barriers were important enough to be installed, because the bridge was not built originally with those fenders in place in 1930; they were added later," he said.

Courtesy Chuck Jackson

From left, current music director Joseph To, founding member Pat Gaffney, founding music director Don Austin, and founding member Bill Zachary.

Courtesy Chuck Jackson

Magnolia Chorale performs 35th Anniversary Gala celebration concert.