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Despite pouring rain, about 15 dedicated volunteers showed up on Saturday, February 7 for a remarkably productive work party—proof once again that Leschi stewardship doesn’t stop for the weather. Volunteers removed invasive bindweed roots and buttercup in the first overlook area, cleared weeds and dead shrubs near the second overlook, and spread generous amounts of mulch both in newly cleared areas and in places where invasives had been removed previously. The mulch will help suppress weeds and retain moisture as native plants establish. To improve access and safety, volunteers shoveled a serious amount of leaf paste and slurry from the roadway near the sidewalk, removed slippery leaves from the stairs and main lower trail, and cleared a significant stretch of ivy along the trail leading to the lower area. The group also pruned vegetation to let in more light and continue opening up sightlines, then capped off the day by planting three new trees and additional native plants—a big win for long-term habitat and neighborhood enjoyment. Want to join a future work party? Be sure to check the Events page at leschicommunitycouncil.org  for upcoming stewardship opportunities. Rain gear encouraged and good company guaranteed! ~Nikola Davidson

Esther Ervin was born in a small town in New Jersey, but moved to California at the age of 16. Her house was near the Irvine Ranch where she actually saw cowboys herding cattle. Now the Ranch has been developed into housing. She went to Palestine and Israel as an undergraduate. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and went into the Peace Corps for three years from 1977 to 1980. She was assigned to Columbia where she worked with boys living on the street. She gave them language training and education in both art and science. From there she went on to work at a Catholic school and then moved to Bogota. Finally, she handled the economics for the families of a community that grew coffee, canned food, and created mats from fique (a type of grass). In 1980, she returned to California and went to Graduate School at California State University, Long Beach where she studied art and science medical illustration. In 1994, she came to Seattle where she pursued another career in insurance and securities. She attended the Festival Sundiata where she saw an art show and began meeting artists in the late 1990s. She first met Al Doggett in 1997. Meanwhile, she began making jewelry. She went to a Native American workshop where they used gourds to make art and was inspired to make her own gourd art. Her father was raised on a Cree reservation. A major turning point in her career was receiving a residency at the Pratt Fine Arts Center where she learned jewelry making, metalsmithing, and welding. Another important honor was a residency at the Dr. James W. Washington, Jr. & Janie Rogella Washington Foundation where she made sculpture from materials found in the house. Ervin was also Acting Director of the Washington House 2013-2018. Salmon in courtyard of Liberty Bank Building, 2016 Skylights depicting red lining 2016 (visible on Union Street) In 2016, she collaborated with Doggett on the extensive Liberty Bank Building artist project. On Union Street near 24th Avenue, Ervin created drum shaped seats with a tiled basketweave pattern and above them transparent window designs of the redlined area of the Central District. In the central courtyard of the building are several bronze salmon struggling to go upstream. There is a sporadic flow of water that does not support them, a metaphor for the struggles of African Americans to succeed. Sculpture in Wayfarer complex 23rd and Yesler. "The works speak to the deforestation of the CD." Photo by Greg Bell. (Glass and semi precious beads, potatopearls, bronze chain, steel support structure, laser etched wood trees) Ervin has created other public art works in the neighborhood, most visibly at Jackson and 23rd Street, where an abstract design based on cowrie shells is displayed. At Boren and Yesler, in the Wayfarer complex, she has another piece. As Ervin explains, “the Wayfarer building works are large jewelry art pieces with one having a cedar tree and the other having a Douglass fir tree. The works speak to the deforestation of the CD. They are made of glass and semi-precious beads, potato pearls, bronze chain, steel support structure, laser etched wood trees.” As Ervin creates more public art, she also works as a curator with Black Arts West Alumnae Association and the Garfield Super Block. Additionally, she continues to create exquisite art in many media, ceramics, jewelry, metal, and sculpture. Her work is imbued with a sense of history. One of her missions is to celebrate the work of lesser known Black artists and history. ~Susan Platt

As I sat in his comfortable living room, Al Doggett described his early years and then the details of his move to Seattle. Born in Brooklyn, he first showed an interest in art when he was in the second grade and he became the class artist in the fifth grade. He loved drawing and telling stories. He was fortunate to gain entry to the School of Art and Design in Manhattan where he learned how to illustrate professionally. He then went to the Fashion Institute of Technology and supported himself with freelance work. Finally, he attended the Art Students League, but at this point in the early 1960s he decided that he wanted to leave New York. Al Doggett 2026 In 1962, he took the greyhound bus all the way across the country, arriving in Seattle at the same time as the World’s Fair. He took his portfolio to various advertising agencies but nobody was interested in hiring him. At that point he returned to New York and became an apprentice for a top studio and began looking up advertising agencies in Seattle. On the basis of five responses to his letters he moved to Seattle in 1967 and made contact with creative directors. He stated that by then he had a much better portfolio and he was able to move forward. He also was able to buy his current home in Madrona. He pursued both fine and commercial art. He did work for the Urban League and projects for the Bon Marché art department. He trained high school students and he had five employees helping him. In the mid-1990s, the world of illustration went digital. Doggett retrained himself and continued to work. In addition to his professional work, he also taught art classes to children and adults, and workshops at local schools and museums. The youth used to come and hang out at his house and when they grew up they came back to visit. Doggett was also connected to their families. His painting series of the “Images of Africa” includes careful profile images of women from different tribes. Maasai Elder gives us a stunning profile against a huge sun and glowing sunset landscape. Another series “Essence of Youth” includes children in many poses, sitting, thinking, and dancing. In “Beauty Parlor” a young girl is doing her mother’s hair and the mother is doing her daughter’s hair below her. They are seated on the front steps of their home. “Family Tree” has three generations of an African American family proudly arranged for the portrait in a triangle. They are all dressed in elegant turn-of-the-century clothes. Liberty Bank building Courtyard, 2016 But one of Doggett’s most stunning and accessible works is the mural that he created for the entrance wall of the Liberty Bank Building. The Liberty Bank had been the first bank to loan mortgages to African Americans when the law was changed in 1968. Now it has 115 affordable apartments. Al Doggett and Esther Ervin commissioned seven African American artists to create work for the building. Doggett’s beautiful mural, visible from the street, features a tall saxophone player with a dancer and a painter against a bright orange background. The mural suggests the rhythms of the music and the high energy of the three figures. He has commented that it was difficult to arrange the figures around the windows, but the mural is magnificent. Doggett also created other murals and paintings at the Liberty Bank Building, but they are inside the building. We need to ask for a tour! ~Susan Platt

Christina Wood opened the doors of Temple Pastry on South Jackson Street in 2020 and since then, it’s become a popular community gathering spot that now serves sandwiches, ice cream, pizza at night, and has a bottle shop. Last fall, Wood released her first cookbook and most recently learned she is nominated for the distinguished 2026 James Beard’s Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker award. Christina Wood I sat down with Wood to ask about her baking inspirations, her new cookbook, and the James Beard nomination. As we began to talk, I noticed the expression of a nearby guest as he took his first bite of a pastry. His eyes seemed to pop open and a smile clearly crossed his face before going back to his work on his laptop. I shared his pleasure knowing that the baguette I just purchased would get the same result when I brought it home. Temple’s display case is always filled with a beautiful collection of croissants, puff pastries, cakes, cookies, and breads. Wood says she likes taking favorite old school baked goods and adding different flavors that give it a new twist, becoming even more delicious. For example, the Horchata Brioche Donut and Milk Bread with Butterfly Pea Flower Swirl demonstrate this approach. For the Superbowl, the staff created their take on “Pigs in a Blanket.” Over the years the new items that have been added to the menu, such as ice cream and pizza, result from collaborations with her exceptional staff who have been with her for years. She encourages the staff to add new and creative items to the bakery’s offering. One reason Wood’s menu items stand out is her focus on using nontraditional grains, preferably local, in her baking. For her, using local grains such as buckwheat create not only a different taste but contribute to the biodiversity of keeping soil healthy. She hopes as people are introduced to new grains, there will be more of a demand for giving our bodies healthy, organic nutrients. Wood’s cookbook, Pastry Temple , reflects the creativity behind the bakery’s distinctive specialties. Wood says the cookbook is one she wishes she had when she was starting out. It explains in detail the basics for making the three important types of pastry—brioche, croissants and puff pastries. She also says Pastry Temple  is designed for the baker who is ready to take their baking to the next level. I found the cookbook an enjoyable read as Wood shares her journey in becoming a pastry chef and the joy of making wonderful desserts to share. She plans to begin teaching classes sometime in the future in a space adjacent to the bakery. Wood’s inspired approach to baking garnered the attention of the James Beard “secret eater” who nominated her as a semifinalist for the 2026 James Beard Awards. A short list of finalists will be announced in March with the winner announced in June. Temple Pastries, located at 2524 South Jackson Street, is open every day 7am to 3pm. In the evening, the bakery opens as Sacro Bosco, Tuesday to Friday from 5pm to 9pm. You can experience Roman-style pizza with a distinctive Northwest twist in toppings, tasty side dishes and, of course, yummy desserts. Sumac-Roasted Strawberry Cheesecake Croissant Pastry Temple ’s recipe for Sumac-Roasted Strawberry Cheesecake Croissants offers a tip for enhancing the flavor and shine of strawberries that are not at the peak. Christina uses the Mediterranean spice Sumac to complement the flavor of the strawberries. Roasted Strawberries 2 ¼ pounds of strawberries 100 grams (about a ½ cup) of sugar 10 grams (about 2 teaspoons) sumac Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Cut large berries in half. In a large bowl toss the strawberries with the sugar and sumac. Place strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast in the center of the oven for 30 minutes, turning every 10 minutes, until the berries are tender but still hold their shape. There should not be any running liquid. ~Mary-Carter Creech

More than 75 neighbors filled the room at the February Leschi Community Council meeting to hear from Stephanie Johnson-Tolliver, President of the Black Heritage Society of Washington State (BHS), for a powerful and informative lecture on preserving Black history in Seattle’s Central District—a history she emphasized includes Leschi. Johnson-Tolliver introduced herself as a fourth-generation Seattleite, noting that her family moved to the area in 1903. She grounded her talk in both personal connection and historical context, underscoring why preservation matters not only for buildings, but for the stories and communities they represent. The Central District is one of Seattle’s oldest neighborhoods, with homes built as early as the late 1800s. For much of the city’s history, Black residents were relegated to this area through restrictive housing practices. Yet despite its central role in Seattle’s Black history, the Central District remains significantly underrepresented in the City’s landmark designations. Of the 513 designated Seattle landmarks, only 13—just 2.5 percent—are located in the Central District. Johnson-Tolliver highlighted the national significance of the neighborhood, noting visits by Thurgood Marshall in 1947 and Martin Luther King Jr. in 1961, and reminded attendees that the first and second headquarters of the Black Panther Party were in the Central District—properties BHS is actively working to preserve. She then walked the audience through the 13 designated landmark sites, presented in chronological order of their nomination: Immaculate Conception Church (1977) —a historically diverse congregation and host to many important community events Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute (1982) —formerly a synagogue, now a cultural hub hosting the Black Film Festival and youth programs First African Methodist Episcopal Church (1984) —Seattle’s first Black church, still active today James and Janie Washington House and Studio (1991) —home of sculptor and activist James Washington Jr. who helped bring James Baldwin to Seattle and activist Janie Washington, who famously baked pies for Mt. Zion Yesler Houses (1998) —central to Black community life in the neighborhood Douglass-Truth Library and Garfield High School (2003) —the library holds the largest collection of Black literature on the West Coast; BHS refurbished the Soul Pole on its grounds Fire Station 6 (2007) —now the William Grose Center for Cultural Innovation, currently undergoing renovation Colman School (2009) —now the Northwest African American Museum, preserved after the longest civil disobedience occupation in U.S. history Washington Hall (2010) —once home to a vibrant jazz scene including Duke Ellington, now offices and creative spaces Horace Mann School (2013) —now the NOVA School, noted for its beautiful interior Mount Zion Baptist Church (2018) —a cornerstone of the Black community and the civil rights movement Tolliver Temple (2025) —a historic Black church, formerly a synagogue Stephanie also demystified the landmark nomination process, explaining that anyone can nominate a site—although the application process can be daunting. Nominations go before the Seattle Landmarks Preservation Board, involve multiple City departments, and require approval by both the City Council and the Mayor. BHS often assists community members through this intensive process, though not every nomination is approved. Looking ahead, BHS is focused on creating a trail of Black Panther sites, including the first and second headquarters, the Carolyn Downs Clinic, and the William Grose House. Other sites under consideration include the Frank Waldren House, the Jacob Lawrence House, and the Garfield Playfield, where Black baseball thrived in the 1930s and 1940s. The evening was a reminder that preservation is about more than buildings: it’s about honoring history, recognizing community contributions, and ensuring these stories remain visible for future generations. ~Nikola Davidson

The Leschi Community Council recently submitted a grant proposal to the Seattle Garden Club to support a new interpretive kiosk at Peppi’s Playground—a project intended to highlight and support Peppi’s Woods, the community-stewarded natural area adjacent to the playground and Leschi Elementary. This proposal grew from a suggestion by one of Peppi’s Woods volunteer Forest Stewards and reflects early concept development. If funded, the project would intentionally move into a broader engagement phase to ensure the final outcome reflects shared priorities and values. Why a Kiosk? Peppi’s Playground is a lively gathering place for families and children. Just beyond it, Peppi’s Woods offers a quieter experience—an urban forest that supports native plants, birds, pollinators, and a sense of connection to nature. The proposed kiosk would: Share information about native plants and habitat found in Peppi’s Woods Highlight the ecological value of urban forests Encourage visitors to explore native plants as sustainable, biodiverse choices for their own gardens The goal is not just to inform, but to inspire care—extending conservation awareness beyond the park and into the neighborhood. A Phased, Intentional Approach The grant proposal is structured in two phases, allowing the project to begin with research and design before moving into fabrication and installation. Phase 1: Research, Design, and Planning (Requested from the Seattle Garden Club) This phase would focus on: Conversations with Forest Stewards, Leschi Elementary educators, and Leschi Community Council volunteers Review of Seattle Parks requirements for siting and long-term maintenance Development of two concept design options for the kiosk structure and interpretive approach Draft sample artwork and native plant graphics Outreach to potential fabricators to inform Phase 2 scope and costs Phase 1 would be led by public artist and landscape designer Ann Marie Schneider, who would develop the interpretive vision, test kiosk locations, and create the site plan required by Seattle Parks. Phase 2: Technical Design, Fabrication, and Installation (To be funded through additional fundraising and/or in-kind support) The scope and final budget for Phase 2 would be informed by the outcomes of Phase 1. Stewardship Continues Regardless of the grant outcome, stewardship of Peppi’s Woods continues. Volunteers regularly care for the site through invasive removal and forest restoration, building on years of community effort. Upcoming Peppi’s Woods work parties: Sunday, February 1, 10am–12:30 pm Saturday, March 1, 10am–12:30 pm These work parties are a great way to learn more about the woods, meet neighbors, and contribute directly to its health. Looking Ahead—A Call to Participate Grant review takes time, and no decisions have been made yet. If the grant is awarded, the Leschi Community Council intends to invite broader community participation in shaping the kiosk’s content, design, and storytelling. If you’re interested in helping bring this project to life—whether through ideas, skills, or collaboration—we’d love to hear from you. Please contact leschivp@gmail.com  to stay involved and be part of the conversation if the project moves forward. ~Nikola Davidson

Dear BFF, New Year’s resolutions are hard! How can I make mine stick? Signed, Unresolved Dear Unresolved, January is almost over. But before we throw in the towel on our new year’s resolutions, let’s take a look at how to make them stick. You can start with how you make them–the acronym S.M.A.R.T. shows you how. S.M.A.R.T. goals are specific, measurable, actionable, realistic and time-bound. Let’s take a closer look! We can get a better idea what specific means by comparing vague and specific goals: I want to get in shape is vague, versus I want to play with my grandkids without getting tired, or I want to be fit enough to join a soccer team, or I want to be able to carry the huge heavy box of cat litter into the house easily. I want to save money is vague, versus I want to have one month’s expenses set aside, or I want to become financially independent. I want to eat healthy is vague, versus I want to follow the Department of Agriculture’s MyPlate plan. I want to be informed is vague, versus I want to read the paper’s national and local news sections every day. Specific goals are naturally more measurable. You can see clearly if you’ve achieved them and you have a better idea if you’re making progress. It’s worth it to go a little deeper, though. For example, if your goal is playing soccer, how will you know you’re fit enough? What requirements does the team have? What are the landmarks on the way to meeting them? Once you’ve pinned down these measurable details, you’re ready to break your goal down into actionable steps. This might mean a trip to the library or sorting the good information from the bad on the internet.Or it could mean finding a class or connecting with a coach. Some steps are obvious–if you’re trying to save a month’s worth of expenses, you’ll need to make a budget so you know what that amount is. If you’re trying to outlast your grandkids, you’ll want to start a cardio routine. As you’re planning these actions, remember the R–be realistic. Yes, the first step is having a realistic goal, but the steps you take and your timeline need to be realistic, too. As you’re planning, think about obstacles that might come up and what you can do to overcome them. Think about the habits that you’ll need to develop and how to integrate them into your life. It’s ok for steps to be small. Sometimes it’s better, because each one you complete is a victory you can build on. Ask yourself what tools and support will help keep you on track. Some people thrive with sticker charts–yes, some of us adults! Others do great with a buddy system. Maybe it’s most helpful to hire a coach who’s an expert in the specific area of your goal. And finally goals need to be time-bound. They need to have a start date and an end date. This keeps you on track for all the steps in between. This allows you to see if you accomplished what you set out to do. Change is still hard, but having S.M.A.R.T. goals means you can make it happen. All the best with your resolutions for the coming year. Your Best Friend in Fitness, Michele Michele McCauley received her personal trainer certification in 2017and now operates Resilient Body Fitness. She would love to be your Best Friend in Fitness! E-mail your fitness questions to bff@ResilientBody.Fitness .

Date and Time:  February 4, 2026, 7-8:15 p.m. Location:  Grace United Methodist Church, 722 30th Ave S, Seattle As Seattle continues to grow and change, conversations about development often focus on what comes next—new housing, new businesses, and new infrastructure. But historian and community leader Stephanie Johnson-Toliver argues that the most effective and equitable development begins with a clear understanding of what has already shaped a place. In honor of Black History Month, Johnson-Toliver, president of the Black Heritage Society (BHS) of Washington State, will speak at Grace United Methodist Church on Tuesday, February 4, from 7 to 8:15 p.m. Her presentation, An Evening with Stephanie Johnson-Toliver, uses the history of Seattle’s Central District not as a distant past, but as a living guide for building strong, inclusive communities today. Rather than presenting history as dates and facts alone, Johnson-Toliver will bring it to life through stories, archival materials, and the everyday landmarks many residents pass without realizing their significance. By weaving together historical documentation with present-day challenges, she shows how community—formed through shared experience, challenges, and resilience—has long defined the Central District’s identity. A fourth-generation Seattleite, Johnson-Toliver is widely respected for her work preserving historically significant sites and amplifying stories that are overlooked or forgotten. In addition to leading the Black Heritage Society, she co-leads the Historic Central Area Arts & Cultural District and serves on the boards of the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) and the Washington Secretary of State’s ALL Foundation-Legacy Washington. Her talk will draw on the Black Heritage Society’s extensive collections, which include turn-of-the-century documents, oral histories, and one of the largest regional collections of African American memorabilia in the Pacific Northwest. Through these materials, Johnson-Toliver traces the Central District’s emergence as an early hub of Black life in Seattle—revealing how policy decisions, migration, and community organizing shaped the neighborhood. Stretching roughly from John Street to Irving Street and from 12th Avenue east to 34th Avenue, the Central District developed in large part because of racially restrictive housing policies that limited where people of color could live. These policies affected not only Black residents, but also Asian and Jewish families, creating a neighborhood bound by shared exclusion—and, over time, shared purpose. “The history of redlining is complicated,” Johnson-Toliver explains. “As things opened up, gentrification occurred. We need to learn from these changes and plan for development in a way that ensures all community members benefit.” Johnson-Toliver highlights institutions that have long anchored community life, including Grace United Methodist Church, Washington Hall, the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute, Garfield High School, and Mount Zion Baptist Church. Their roles have evolved over generations, but their continued presence tells a story of resilience and innovation that still shapes the neighborhood today. An important part of the Central District’s identity is its role in the Civil Rights movement, producing organizations and individuals who influenced both local and national changes for equity and justice. Johnson-Toliver will describe events when bold leadership led to thoughtful policies that supported community preservation—even as businesses and arts organizations experienced cycles of growth and displacement. She will also discuss exciting current initiatives that apply historical lessons to today’s challenges. Among them is the Africatown Community Land Trust, which acquires property to promote long-term stability and help former Central District residents return to the neighborhood. Also noticeable is the re-emergence of Black-owned businesses contributing to the vitality of the Central District. A third example is the William Grose Center for Cultural Innovation and Enterprise, which supports Black entrepreneurship in business and technology. Looking ahead, Johnson-Toliver will explain the importance of long-term thinking and civic engagement. She encourages residents to pay attention to major initiatives such as the Seattle Comprehensive Plan 2035, a 30-year blueprint guiding decisions on housing, transportation, parks, and public investment. In addition, the plan includes a process for community outreach and engagement for residents who want to have input into City policies and plans. She also highlights the Garfield Superblock Development, a community-led project that includes renovations to Garfield Playfield, a permanent public art installation, and the Legacy Park Promenade, a pedestrian walkway linking historic sites, including the former playfield of Seattle’s first Black baseball teams. Artists and craftspeople are already at work and visitors can see how history is being transformed into a beautifully designed space that is open and welcoming. For Johnson-Toliver, history is not simply something to be remembered—it is something to be used. “When we understand how communities were shaped, we can make better choices about how they grow,” she said. “History gives us the tools to maintain character and livability. These are investments that go beyond ownership and can lead to a future that is more inclusive and connected.” ~Diane Aboulafia

In early January, Leschi Community Council volunteers gathered to map out the year ahead, resulting in a 2026 calendar that brings LCC’s vision to life by blending learning, civic engagement, and community fun—creating opportunities for neighbors to connect, stay informed, and engaged as we make Leschi a better place to live and visit. The year begins on February 4th with a program focused on Black history in the Central District, grounding our work in the rich cultural and historical context of the wider neighborhood. In March, we'll turn our attention to our shared green spaces with an invitation to Seattle Parks. In April the focus shifts to traffic safety, an ongoing concern for many neighbors and a chance to learn about tools, plans, and advocacy around safer streets. In May, we hope to welcome City Council Member (and new President!) Joy Hollingsworth for a conversation about City issues affecting District 3 and Leschi. As summer approaches, we'll explore Leschi’s lake history in June, celebrating the neighborhood’s deep connections to Lake Washington. July will bring a family-friendly community event at Powell Barnett Park, designed to be fun, welcoming, and open to all ages. LCC will take a pause in August, then reconvene in September with a focus on public safety. October will feature the annual election forum, providing neighbors an opportunity to hear directly from candidates and engage in the democratic process. In November, attention turns to emergency preparedness, sharing practical information to help households and the community be ready for unexpected events. The year wraps up in December with a winter gathering potluck: a chance to reconnect, reflect, and celebrate the year together. The upcoming schedule reflects the LCC’s commitment to civic participation and community-building. Whether you’re interested in local history, City policy, safety, or simply spending time with neighbors, there will be something on the calendar for you. Details for each event will be shared throughout the year in Leschi News and the Leschi e-newsletter — and, as always, neighbors are welcome to join in, volunteer, and help shape what comes next. Visit leschicommunitycouncil.org  for details.

I’ve made these cookies repeatedly throughout the year and they are always a hit. I’ve brought them to many of our community meetings and there are never any leftovers to take home. The rainbow sprinkles are cheerful and festive, whether it’s for a holiday cookie party or a summer barbeque. Sarah (aka Broma Bakery) is delightful, and she develops delicious baking recipes. She has an awesome assortment on her website bromabakery.com  (check out the tahini banana bread). She recently published her first cookbook, Sweet Tooth, and the recipes look delicious! A few tips from Sarah: Underbake : The key to scrumptious funfetti cookies is a chewy edge and a soft center. The cookies will continue to bake as they cool and stay soft for days! Don’t overmix the batter : Overmixing can lead to a tough cookie and a sprinkle mess. Only mix your batter until it’s just mixed and no streaks of flour remain. This will also keep the sprinkles intact. Use high quality ingredients : With simple recipes it is so important to use high quality ingredients. Make sure you’re using a high quality butter and good sprinkles. She notes that these cookies freeze well. Keep in an airtight bag in the freezer for up to three months. Bake the cookies as directed and allow to cool completely before placing in a freezer safe bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, defrost the cookies overnight on the counter and enjoy! If you prefer metric measurements, visit her website for the option to convert the recipe. Ingredients 3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar 1 large egg, room temperature 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract 2 cups all purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles Instructions Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside. In a stand mixer fit with the whisk attachment, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl, adding the egg and the vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy and pale in color. Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt and beat until just combined and no streaks of flour remain. Do not overmix. Add the sprinkles and turn the mixer on quickly to distribute the sprinkles. Try not to mix the dough much or this will cause the sprinkles to break. Use a 1-ounce cookie scoop (2 tbsp) to scoop the dough into 1 inch balls, dropping them onto your cookie sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for 11 minutes or until the cookies are just set on the edges, but still very gooey in the middle. This will keep your cookies super soft. Allow the cookies to cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Enjoy! ~Ashley Martin

Leschi residents were treated to a unique blend of music, science, and storytelling last month when former neighbors Nelda and Clif Swiggett returned to share their multimedia program, For the Birds —an intimate performance exploring how climate change is reshaping the lives of migratory birds in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Hosted in the home of Deidre Silva and Michael McCahill, who generously opened their doors and provided plant-based appetizers for guests, the evening offered both beauty and urgency. This was the second performance the couple has hosted for the Swiggetts. Moved deeply when she first saw For the Birds  performed as a quintet, Deidre wanted to continue supporting its environmental mission. This Leschi performance marked the first time the Swiggetts presented the program as a duet, featuring Nelda on piano and voice and Clif on trombone and percussion. The two are now taking the duet version on the road. Throughout the evening, original jazz compositions were paired with stunning projected photographs of Northwest birds. Between songs, the Swiggetts shared original poems by Jill McGrath, accompanied by piano, offering moments of reflection amidst the science and sound. Interwoven with the music was a deeply informative presentation on the impact of climate change on birds including the Pacific Flyway, the vast migratory route stretching from Alaska all the way to Patagonia in South America. The Swiggetts highlighted the mounting challenges birds now face: Forest fires forcing some geese to fly as high as 13,000 feet in attempts to escape dense smoke. False Springs, causing plants to bloom too early, leaving returning birds with limited food during key breeding periods. A staggering 29 percent decrease in North American bird populations, a loss of nearly three billion birds since 1970. The facts were sobering, but the Swiggetts managed to strike a powerful balance between heartbreak and hope. While the challenges are immense, there is still time—and still action we can take. At the end of the evening, guests received a climate action quiz, offering both new information and practical steps individuals can take to help protect the environment we share with these migratory species. For the Birds  was a reminder of the interconnectedness between art, science, and stewardship. Leschi was fortunate to experience this thoughtful, moving program firsthand, and many left inspired not only by the beauty of the music but by the responsibility we share in protecting the natural world around us. For more about the program, visit neldaswiggett.com/for-the-birds . ~Nikola Davidson

Once again, the BluWater Bistro is holding its end-of-year annual fundraising effort for Leschi Elementary. You can donate any amount, but if you buy a $100 gift card to the restaurant, BluWater will make a matching donation of $100 to the school. This is the fifth year BluWater has supported neighborhood students and the waterfront Leschi eatery has now donated over $50,000 to the school since 2020. The goal is to match last year’s $10,000 gift, and Bart Evans and his staff hope to surpass that amount. All money raised goes towards paying hourly staff to help kids with their reading and math skills. Last year Bart reminded us that, “p.s. Yes, we know we lose money on this. Please don’t email us about learning math. C’mon it’s 4 the kids.” You can donate at the restaurant or at their website: bluwaterbistro.com/Leschi-elementary . ~Anne Depue