West Seattle, Washington
20 Friday
Thanks to the reader who sent that video recorded this weekend near Anchor/Luna Park. This otter, and almost all the otters that live in Puget Sound, are River Otters, not Sea Otters, and as this one is demonstrating, they spend time on land as well as in the water – sometimes getting to and from their dens requires a trip across roads like Alki Avenue, Harbor Avenue, or Beach Drive – that’s where Chemine Jackels got this photo of a River Otter off Constellation Park last week:
Learn more about River Otters via this one-sheet.
Karen, in the neighborhood west of 35th near Camp Long, wonders if anyone else has experienced this:
Sunday morning, I opened our living room drapes around 7:45 to find that one of the glass panes in our vintage 8-panel leaded glass windows was broken. After investigating, we don’t think it was a bird strike, a thrown rock, or an attempted break-in; but rather that someone shot it with a gun or pellet gun.
The projectile not only broke the window glass, but bent the lead frame from the side. Whatever it was is lodged inside the wooden trim around the window.
We’ve filed an online police report, and that temporary number is T00051305.
Side note – reminder that the quarterly community-safety meeting with Seattle Police, the Southwest Precinct Advisory Council, is at 6:30 pm tomorrow (Tuesday) at the precinct, 2300 SW Webster.
(Jon Anderson’s cat Kevin participating in Bird Count – see below – while safely indoors)
Here’s what’s happening and not happening on this holiday Monday, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
SEATTLE PARKS AND REC FACILITIES: Here’s what’s open and what’s closed.
LIBRARIES: Closed.
BANKS, U.S. POSTAL SERVICE: Holiday.
COUNT BIRDS! If you missed a local author’s request on Saturday, see it here – the count continues through today!
FREE TAX HELP: 11 am-4 pm drop-in help at Alki Masonic Center, (4736 40th SW)
HEART-SHAPED PIZZA THAT HELPS: Last day to get heart-shaped pizza at Mioposto (2139 California SW; WSB sponsor) with part of the proceeds going to NW Immigrant Rights Project.
‘SOLUTIONS, NOT RESOLUTIONS’: Weekly speaker series continues with 1 pm presentation on “Fraud and Cybersecurity” at Brookdale West Seattle (4611 35th SW). Our calendar listing explains how to RSVP.
POP-UP PROTESTS: 3-4 pm at various West Seattlelocations, as listed here.
FREE HOMEWORK HELP: Not happening at High Point Library because of school holiday/break.
D&D: Long-running weekly D&D at 6:30 pm at Meeples Games (3727 California SW). All welcome, first-time players too!
‘LISTENING TO GRIEF’ SUPPORT GROUP: 6:30 pm, ongoing weekly group gathering for people experiencing grief – you can participate once, weekly, or occasionally. Fee; before you go, RSVP/register here. (4034 California SW)
COMEDY IN ADMIRAL: Laughter tonight:
Washington’s Funniest Mammal Semifinals! WA Statewide Comedy Competition
The Audience will be a comedy Judge! Live digital interactive audience voting systems!Where: Otter on the Rocks (4210 SW Admiral Way), Admiral District
When: Feb 16, 7 pm show start! Doors open at 6 pm!
Direct link to tickets
(updated) MONDAY NIGHT TRIVIA X 2: Two venues for trivia/quiz tonight! 7 pm at The Good Society (California/Lander) … 7:30 pm with QuizFix at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW).
MEDITATE IN ALKI: Monday night meditation at Alki UCC is back this week, doors open at 6:45, meditation at 7. (6115 SW Hinds)
POOL TOURNAMENT: Pool players are invited to enter The Corner Pocket‘s weekly tournament starting at 7 pm. $10 buy-in. (4302 SW Alaska)
MEDITATE IN FAUNTLEROY: Free weekly Zen sitting/meditation in the chapel at Fauntleroy UCC (9140 California SW), 7 pm-8:30 pm.
JAZZ AT THE ALLEY: Monday night music with The Westside Jazz Trio, 8 pm at The Alley (behind 4509 California SW), 21+, no cover.
KARAOKE AT TALARICO’S: 9 pm Mondays, karaoke at Talarico’s Pizzeria (4718 California SW).
Thanks as always to everybody who sends info for our calendar; if you have something to add or cancel (or otherwise update), please send the info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
6:01 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Monday, February 16, 2026, Presidents Day, and the start of school breaks of varying lengths.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
The return of rain is in the forecast for today, maybe mixed with snow tonight. High in the low 40s. Sunrise at 7:12 am; sunset at 5:34 pm.
TRANSIT TODAY
West Seattle Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle service, fall/winter schedule, no holiday change.
Washington State Ferries – Per WSF’s alert page, it’s returning to the 3-boat schedule.
Metro buses – Regular weekday schedule and routes today, no holiday change.
PARKING HOLIDAY
If you’re driving to one of the Seattle neighborhoods with on-street paid parking, it’s free today.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Here’s the westward view. Also note, maritime-opening info is available via X (ex-Twitter):
1st Avenue South Bridge:
Delridge cameras: In addition to the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.
MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.
See a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!
By Macey Wurm
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
With this year’s Washington State legislative session scheduled to end March 12, here are some updates on the bills for which our 34th District legislators – State House Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon, State House Rep. Brianna Thomas, and State Senator Emily Alvarado – are the main sponsors. Longer summaries of these bills are in our previous coverage, and each bill number below links to the Legislature website page with full details (as well as ways to comment).
MIDWAY TO APPROVAL: Several bills primarily sponsored by the above representatives have passed in their original chamber, either House or Senate, and are in the process of working through the opposing chamber. These include:
HB 2215– Rep. Fitzgibbon
Obligation for compliance to the Climate Commitment Act for fuels supplied or sold in Washington.
Scheduled for public hearing on Feb.18 at 8:00 a.m.
HB 2367– Rep. Fitzgibbon
Eliminating limitations on imposing emissions requirements for coal facilities inconsistent with the greenhouse gas Emissions Performance Standard.
Scheduled for public hearing on Feb. 20 at 10:30 a.m.
HB 2123– Rep. Fitzgibbon
Eliminates state prohibitions on contributions by foreign nationals toward Washington State elections.
HB 2303– Rep. Thomas
Prohibiting employers from microchipping employees.
HB 2355– Rep. Thomas
Creates labor protections for domestic workers, including minimum wage requirement.
SB 5496– Sen. Alvarado
Limits excessive home buying by certain entities including those with interest in more than 25 single family residences, with some exceptions.
SB 6026– Sen. Alvarado
A city or county with a population of 30,000 may not exclude residential uses in areas zoned for mixed use or commercial development.
SB 6027– Sen. Alvarado
Minimum of 60 percent of Local Sales and Use Tax for Housing and Related Services used for constructing or acquiring affordable housing, behavioral health facilities, or for operational costs.
SB 5500– Sen. Alvarado
Child-care subsidy base rate must achieve the 85th percentile of market minimum, alters how the cost of quality child care rate model is used by the Department of CHildren, Youth, and Families.
Scheduled for public hearing on Feb. 18 at 4:00 p.m.
SB 5993– Sen. Alvarado
Prohibits interest charges or collecting owed interest on new or outstanding medical debt, and that medical debt may only be enforced six years after its date of entry.
Scheduled for public hearing on Feb. 18 at 8:00 a.m.
SB 5911– Sen. Alvarado
As of Jan. 1, 2027, the Department of Children, Youth, and Families may not apply funds paid to or on behalf of someone receiving Extended foster Care services as reimbursement.
Scheduled for public hearing on Feb, 18 at 1:30 p.m.
Below are others that have not advanced to the opposing chamber, but have passed committee, and are in the process to appear on the floor for a vote before moving forward:
HB 2251– Rep. Fitzgibbon
Repeals three of the Climate Commitment Act funding accounts and replaces them with the Climate Commitment Act Operating Account and the Climate Commitment Act Capital Account.
HB 2517– Rep. Fitzgibbon
Allows regional transit authorities to apply for permits before acquiring property or receiving notice of land use decisions.
HB 2496– Rep. Thomas
Requires the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council to consult with federally recognized tribes during siting review and compliance monitoring. It also exempts these meetings from the Open Public Meetings Act, with some exceptions.
SB 5647– Sen. Alvarado
Expands the Real Estate excise Tax exemption for self-help housing.
SB 6173– Sen. Alvarado
Creates an Apple Health Employer Assessment imposed on all employers with employees enrolled in Medicaid, going toward the State Health Care Affordability account.
SB 6069– Sen. Alvarado
Encourages permanent supportive housing, transitional housing,and indoor emergency housing by allowing it in urban growth areas not zoned for industrial use.
NOT EXPECTED TO ADVANCE: Below are several bills unlikely to advance this session after missing deadlines on Feb. 4 and Feb.9. Feb. 4 was the policy committee cutoff, meaning, if a bill was not approved by its designated committee by that date, it is now unlikely to move forward with the legislative process this session. Feb. 9 served as the fiscal committee cutoff, a later cutoff reserved for bills referred to House fiscal committees and the Senate Ways and Means, and Transportation Committees. The bills that failed to make it out of committee for the deadlines include:
HB 2581– Rep. Fitzgibbon
Provides additional investment options for electric utilities under the alternative compliance segment of the greenhouse-neutral gas standard.
HB 2724– Rep. Fitzgibbon
Establishing a tax on millionaires to fund education, health care, and other essential government services.
HJR 4209– Rep. Fitzgibbon
Allowing the legislature to amend Washington State’s congressional districts before the next decennial census if another state does so outside a court order and before the next census.
HB 2182– Rep. Thomas
Removes requirements for the Washington State Department of Corrections to sell abortion medication and allows the department to obtain payment for medication.
HJR 4210– Rep. Thomas
Allows the legislature to determine the length of regular sessions by amending the Washington State constitution.
HB 1090– Sen. Alvarado
Requires that health plans provide a reimbursement of a 12-month supply of contraceptives.
SB 6067– Sen. Alvarado
Modifies workers’ compensation, specifically concerning benefits for total disability.
SB 6068– Sen. Alvarado
Allows workers employed by subcontractors to seek payments for unpaid wages and benefits from contractors.
SB 6028– Sen. Alvarado
Develops a revolving loan fund to give loans to organizations for mixed-income affordable housing development.
WHAT’S NEXT: An additional cutoff is coming up on Feb.17, which is the last day to consider bills in their house of origin. The bills that have yet to appear on the floor for a vote in their house of origin are subject to this cutoff date.
It’s mid-winter break for most, but not all, schools. Families, students, and staff obviously already know, but in case you need to know too for traffic or other reasons, we checked the calendars for the schools we routinely track:
CLOSED ALL WEEK: Seattle Public Schools, Westside School, Explorer West Middle School, Tilden School, Summit Atlas, Vashon Island School District
CLOSED MONDAY-TUESDAY-WEDNESDAY: Hope Lutheran School
CLOSED MONDAY-TUESDAY: All three local Catholic schools (Our Lady of Guadalupe, Holy Rosary, Holy Family)
CLOSED MONDAY: Highline Public Schools, Kennedy Catholic High School
(Photo sent by Ian)
Snow-coated Mt. Baker – 140 miles away – was in clear view from Alki this afternoon. If the forecast holds, we might finally see a bit of snow here before the week’s out. No advisories or alerts, but the National Weather Service‘s forecast suggests a rain/snow mix is possible in just about any daypart from Monday night until next Saturday. The NWS Forecast Discussion says snow levels could be down to 200 to 500 feet – which includes much of the peninsula – by Tuesday. But the qualifier phrase “little to no accumulation expected” appears in the forecast too.
Thanks to Steven Rice for the photo and report:
This is my first sighting of a “Repair, Berthing, and Messing” barge. It passed by Alki Point around 11:30 am presumably heading to Bremerton, but I didn’t get to see if it turned that way.
Here’s a link with basic info. And my shot from up near the west side of Schmitz Preserve.
An archives check brings up another reader photo of a YRBM in the area back in 2017.
Though this week will bring the third Thursday of the month, it won’t bring an Alki Community Council meeting. ACC board members say they’re busy working on events for the year ahead, so they’ll reconvene community members at 7 pm Thursday, March 19, at Alki UCC (6115 SW Hinds)
As sunny days like today remind us that gardening season is near, West Seattle Nursery (WSB sponsor) is inviting more kids to join the Growing Gardeners Club, which will be involved with a demonstration garden that WSN will launch soon. WSN’s Marie McKinsey explains, “This month we are inviting kids to decide what we will be planting in the garden. We have a questionnaire for them to fill out, and we will announce the ‘winners’ in early March.” Kids can answer the questionnaire at the nursery (5275 California SW), and it’s also in the first issue of a new Growing Gardeners Club newsletter for parents, which Marie explains “will enable us to share more content, like videos and links to various resources.” If there’s a budding gardener in your home, sign up for the newsletter here – and see the first edition (with the aforementioned questionnaire) here.
One week from today, “The Detention Lottery“ – an “immersive theater experience” – will return to West Seattle, a few months after a fall performance that still has people talking – and it’s even more relevant. Here’s the preview we received:
Prepare to see how justice is served in your name when Fauntleroy Church UCC brings ‘The Detention Lottery’ to West Seattle again on Sunday, Feb. 22 in the Fellowship Hall.
Doors open at 3:30 pml the performance begins at 4:00 pm, followed by a talkback with practicing immigration attorneys.
Admission is free; donations appreciated and support the projects of the Immigration Task Force.
The Detention Lottery takes the audience past today’s scary headlines and news clips, directly into the detention courtroom. We witness desperate conferences between detainees and attorneys, realizing that these few moments together could determine their future forever. We sit in the courtroom where decisions are rendered, seeing for ourselves the justice being served in our name.
“’The Detention Lottery’ is accurate, but not a documentary. It is theater, grounded in real life. It raises awareness without threatening, educates without lecturing, and can raise money without charging admission. And it packs a wallop to everyone who sees it,” says Amy Youngblood, who has directed each performance since its revival last spring. “We bring the performance at no charge to the sponsoring organization. At the same time, nonprofit organizations are welcome to produce their own shows with no royalties, as ‘The Detention Lottery’ is licensed under the Creative Commons license.”
Playwright Margaret O’Donnell, a retired practicing immigration attorney, once despaired of trying to convey to others just what justice was being served in the public’s name. She discovered a talent for writing plays, and in 2018, St. Mark’s Cathedral launched The Detention Lottery to great acclaim. Since then, dozens of sponsoring organizations have presented The Detention Lottery to stunned audiences, raising awareness, inspiration for activism, and funds for immigrant justice projects.
West Seattle activist Pam Jensen watched ‘The Detention Lottery’ at Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation last October and wrote Margaret immediately afterward to request another production. Dianne Sprague and Mary Code of Fauntleroy Church UCC see the vital connections between the church’s missions and the message of the play.
“Given our mission to preserve justice, peace, and the sanctity of God’s world, the congregation is delighted to co-sponsor this event. As we say every Sunday, whoever you are and wherever you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here so please come to this remarkable play,” says Mary Code.
For more information, including how to participate and help, contact Amy Youngblood, director, at 509-906-1076, or email thedetlot@gmail.com.
Fauntleroy Church is at 9140 California SW.
For those wondering about the police response on the west side of 35th/Avalon – police got a report of a man with “a hatchet” damaging buildings and a utility pole in the area. No word of injuries or threats directly to people. Police converged and have taken a suspect into custody. They told dispatch this may have centered around a bus stop, so they’re notifying Metro Transit Police (who are part of the King County Sheriff’s Office) too
Championship season isn’t over yet for winter high-school sports. We have word today of another local athlete who’s competing at state – here’s the announcement:
West Seattle resident and O’Dea High School junior Marcelo Slye is headed to the 3A State Diving Championship this Friday, February 20th. The competition will take place at the Weyerhaeuser King County Aquatic Center in Federal Way.
Marcelo earned his spot at state after an impressive second-place finish at the WIAA Metro League Competition last week. His strong performance secured his advancement to the state-level competition and capped off a standout season.
Remarkably, Marcelo only began diving two years ago, following in the footsteps of his older brother, Giovanni. In a short time, he has developed into one of the top competitors in the region.
Teammates, coaches, and the entire O’Dea community are proud of Marcelo’s accomplishments. Special recognition goes to Coach Chris Sellers for his dedication and commitment to supporting student-athletes both in and out of the pool.
Best of luck to Marcelo and Coach Sellers as they represent O’Dea on the state stage.
(Seen at Seacrest early Wednesday – WSB photo)
Here’s the Sunday lineup, mostly from our WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
COUNT BIRDS! If you missed a local author’s request on Saturday, see it here – the count continues through tomorrow.
FREE WEST AFRICAN DANCE CLASS: Sunday dancing! 9:30 am at South Park Hall (1253 S. Cloverdale).
AMERICAN MAH JONGG: In The Junction, weekly Sunday morning games are happening at the new location of The Missing Piece (4707 California SW), 9:30 am.
SUNDAY MORNING MEDITATION: For a contemplative session, see if there’s space in the small-group meditation session at 9:30 am at Mama Be Well Healing Studio (4034 California SW).
WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: Open as usual on California SW between Oregon and Alaska, 10 am-2 pm, now in winter produce-and-products season – roots, greens, peppers, mushrooms, cabbage, beans, garlic, apples, more – plus lots of baked goods, cheeses, meats, fish, prepared foods, condiments, pasta, more. (Even chips!)
HEART-SHAPED PIZZA THAT HELPS: Second-to-last day to get heart-shaped pizza at Mioposto (2139 California SW; WSB sponsor) with part of the proceeds going to NW Immigrant Rights Project. Open 10 am-9 pm today.
WAREHOUSE FURNITURE & ART LIQUIDATION: 10 am-6 pm (may end sooner if sold out – this is the third of three scheduled days):
A former home-staging company’s full inventory will be liquidated during a warehouse sale in West Seattle. The sale includes a large selection of furniture, rugs, art, lighting and home décor, all priced to move. Items were previously used for staging homes and are well-suited for homeowners, renters, real estate professionals and short-term rental hosts.
(2501 Harbor SW)
FREE NIA CLASS: Begins at 10:15 am; first class free if you pre-register. At Inner Alchemy Studio/Sanctuary. (3618 SW Alaska)
WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Need a tool but don’t need to, or can’t, buy it? You’ll probably be able to find it at, and borrow it from, the Tool Library, open 11 am-4 pm on the northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)
FREE DROP-IN TAX HELP: 11 am-4 pm at Southwest Library. (9010 35th SW)
SUNDAY FUNDAY RUNDAY: Different time this week! The Westies Run Club is celebrating Good Society‘s 6th anniversary today – meet there for an 11:30 am run. (2701 California SW)
WEST SEATTLE RESIST: Regular weekly West Seattle Resist Sunday sign-holding event, 11:30 am-1:30 pm. South of Farmers’ Market. (California SW and SW Alaska)
TONE CIRCLE: “Vocal toning for healing and empowerment.” Noon at Inner Alchemy Studio/Sanctuary. (3618 SW Alaska)
WELCOME ROAD WINERY: You’re invited to hang out at this West Seattle tasting room (with a patio!) open 2-5 pm, kids and dogs welcome. (3804 California SW; WSB sponsor)
(added) CABI PREVIEW: Late word from Fauntleroy Schoolhouse (9131 California SW):
Happening today at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse! Check out the Spring women’s clothing preview with cabi stylists onsite to showcase the new collection. Walk-ins welcome! No signup required. 2-4 pm Feb 15. Whether you’re a longtime cabi fan or just discovering the brand, this is the perfect chance to refresh your wardrobe and contribute to their mission to encourage and empower women in need.
WEST SEATTLE CLASSIC NOVELS (AND MOVIES) BOOK CLUB: Gather at 2:30 to chat and get your beverage, book talk starts at 3 pm – this month, Herman Hesse‘s “Steppenwolf“ – out back at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor)
FABRIC DESIGN WORKSHOP: Join West Seattle artist Stacey Sterling for a creative exploration, 3 pm at Alki Arts (6030 California SW). Go here to reserve your spot.
‘TOPDOG/UNDERDOG’: The new “comic fable” at ArtsWest has a matinée today, 3 pm. Go here for tickets.
CONCERT FOR THE FOOD BANK AT C & P: 3-5 pm, Michael Partington, Sienna Araya Winquist and Mischa Yolleck perform at C & P Coffee with donations welcome, to benefit West Seattle Food Bank. (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor)
WEST SEATTLE INDIVISIBLE: 3:30 pm monthly meeting – with a bake sale – at a new location, St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church (3050 California SW).
ASTRA LUMINA: Its run is close to the end, but it’s on tonight – first entry at 6 pm in the Seattle Chinese Garden (north end of South Seattle College campus, 6000 16th SW); tickets here.
UNDERGROUND TRIVIA AT CORNER POCKET: Play starting at 7:30 pm, win prizes! (4302 SW Alaska)
JET CITY IMPROV AT ARTSWEST: Improvised musical! 7:30 pm show at ArtsWest (4711 California SW); check for tickets here.
LIVE MUSIC AT THE ALLEY: 8-10 pm, end your weekend with live music with the Triangular Jazztet at The Alley (behind 4509 California SW).
Are you planning, organizing, and/or publicizing something that we could add to the WSB community event calendar – one-time or recurring? Please email us the basic details – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
When we looked last month at bills that local legislators are sponsoring this year, one by 34th District State House Rep. Brianna Thomas of West Seattle turned a few heads: HB 2303, preventing employers from microchipping employees. Today the State House overwhelmingly passed Thomas’s bill, 87 yes, 6 no. From the news release we received tonight:
… “Microchips may seem like science fiction, but the technology is here,” said Thomas. “The concept is pretty simple. Don’t chip me, bro!”
If passed by the Senate and signed by the Governor, House Bill 2303 would make Washington the 14th state to pass legislation limiting or banning the use of microchips in work environments.
“It creates an opportunity for employers to track employees during work hours and at home. That is scary,” continued Thomas. “We recognize that the power dynamic between an employer and an employee makes true freedom of choice nearly impossible. This is a big step to help protect our employees from being microchipped by their employer.”
Next, the State Senate will consider the bill.
(Unlike many art walks, visual arts were just part of this one)
By Macey Wurm
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
The arts are alive and well at Chief Sealth International High School, showcased through Thursday night’s third annual CSIHS Art Walk. Originally proposed by Sealth’s choir director Katie Lenoue, the Art Walk is intended to cohesively showcase all of the school’s fine arts programs.
The event was open to the public, and began at 6:00 p.m. with a brief introduction, before guests were invited to explore the various rooms. Each room was home to a department – choir, jazz, orchestra, or poetry – which each put on three performance “sessions” throughout the night. Attendees were encouraged to continuously explore various rooms, paying no mind to performance starts, or end times. This created a well-rounded arts experience where attendees could linger as long as they wanted with programs they particularly enjoyed.
The choir department took over room 206, and showcased multiple soloists, a duet, and a quintet over the course of the three performances. Director Lenoue expressed her joy in the group, mentioning that one student had qualified as a state alternate in a recent competition on Jan. 31, and that she and a partner had qualified for state as a duet.
“We’re really proud of those kids, and we thought people would enjoy hearing them,” Lenoue said.
Jazz music filled the Little Theater, three different ensembles, each with at least 5 members, played for the audience in the span of an hour. This was just a snippet of the jazz program at large, which has seen recent growth at Chief Sealth, according to Joey Roberts, the band director. He mentioned that more than 50 students pursued the program this year, causing it to split into two stage bands and three combos. The program will be attending the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival in Idaho again this year, in April.
Unique from the other rooms were the poetry readings held in 209. An ensemble labeled on the directory as “Addison Whited and Friends” overtook the space in what seemed like an organic, mostly unstructured slam poetry session. Students took turns reading famous works and mixed in self-written poems. The poetry branch is largely student run, with some help from Chief Sealth’s English department.
The main auditorium was home to the orchestra, with three consecutive performances by a chamber orchestra and a string quartet. At 7:50, attendees gathered back into the auditorium to observe a brief combined show by the choir, jazz band, and orchestra. The diverse body brought together a piece from “The Prince of Egypt,” followed by a sneak peek into the drama department’s upcoming musical “Little Shop of Horrors.”
Chief Sealth plans to bring its music programs to Disneyland in June, with the help of DSPA Parent Boosters, the booster group for arts at Denny International Middle School and Chief Sealth IHS.
The Art Walk is typically DSPA’s most prominent fundraiser. “Performing arts programs are sorely underfunded, so we just do a lot of work throughout the year to try to raise as much money as we can,” said an officer of the booster group. Fundraising will ensure that all students would be able to go on the California trip. Consistently, funds go toward instruments, sheet music access, and other materials necessary to continue the livelihood of the arts. You can donate online by scrolling down this page to the “Direct Give” links.
Thanks for sending the sunset photos – a peek of pink on Valentine’s night – the top photo is by Bob Burns, the one below is from Greg Moore.
(added) This one’s via text from Arbor Heights:
This sunset was also notable as the first one after 5:30 pm (5:31, to be exact) as we roll toward spring, now less than five weeks away – Friday, March 20. Before then, the clock will “spring forward” when Daylight Saving Time returns in just three weeks, at 2 am March 8 (meaning, among other things, that the sunset that night will be at 7:04 pm).
Just a few months before the Seahawks won the Super Bowl, the Mariners won the Divisional Championship. Now this year’s season is in sight, with the M’s playing their first spring-training game in Arizona in six days. It’s also time to snap up a regular-season ticket deal that also benefits the West Seattle High School baseball team, if you haven’t already. Here’s the reminder:
West Seattle Day at T-Mobile Park – Support WSHS BaseballJoin all of West Seattle at T-Mobile park as the Mariners take on the Mets June 2nd at 6:40 pm. These are the best tickets in town at only $30 for lower level and $20 for the upper level!
Proceeds help support West Seattle High School Baseball and our opportunity to play at T-Mobile Park!
Each year, only 20 high school programs across the region are invited to participate in the Mariners Baseball Classic, an opportunity that allows student-athletes to play on an MLB field. West Seattle was one of the first schools ever included — and staying in the Classic is something our players must earn every year.
That’s where West Seattle Day at T-Mobile Park comes in.
The WSHS Baseball program is hosting a Mariners ticket fundraiser for the Mariners vs. New York Mets on Tuesday, June 2 at 6:40 PM. Ticket sales directly fund the program and secure West Seattle’s spot in the Mariners Baseball Classic which is free for the whole community to attend.
100 Level: $30 | 300 Level: $20
Can’t attend? Tickets can be gifted or donated to local organizations like the Boys & Girls Club, community centers, and youth baseball/softball programs (like WSLL and WSBB) — spreading the love and the game across West Seattle.
Let’s fill the stands in blue, cheer loud, and show the Mariners what West Seattle support looks like.
*Buy tickets here: WSHS Baseball – M’s Ticket Sales Fundraiser
*Share the link with friends, family, and coworkersSee you at T-Mobile Park.
Barbara sent the photos of a bin of what looks like personal photos and documents, dumped or misplaced near Lowman Beach:
If you think it’s yours, contact us and we’ll connect you.
(WSB photo, Hiawatha today)
One week until Hiawatha Community Center‘s grand reopening after a closure that’s lasted almost six years. In addition to the post-reopening programming we mentioned Friday, we have two more notes:
-The office of Mayor Katie Wilson says she plans to attend the 10 am reopening celebration next Saturday. This will be her first major public appearance in West Seattle since taking office.
–Seattle Parks has launched a survey to ask what programming you want to see as Hiawatha gradually reopens fully. You can answer it here.
Thanks to Desiree for the tip! That sign in the window of the former Row House space at the AJ Apartments (southwest corner of 42nd SW and SW Oregon) uncloaks the new tenant: Arthur Murray Dance Studio. If you’re of a certain age, you might recognize that as a name with decades of dance-teaching history worldwide. Here in West Seattle, the studio owners are Tina Marie and Gretchen Malone. Tina also co-owns the Downtown Seattle location; when we asked her why expand to West Seattle?, she replied, “We have a few students that currently live in West Seattle and have often thought that there must be more people that could use some dancing in their lives! We’ve come to find those people!” First lesson in the new space is Thursday (February 17). They’re teaching 30 styles of dance, with private lessons as well as group classes.
Those nine birds are featured in West Seattle writer Lori Kothe‘s book “Birds Near My Home in the City by the Sea” (and have been featured many times in photos here on WSB). Any sightings this weekend carry extra importance. Lori explains in this request she asked us to share with you:
I have an ask of everyone in West Seattle now through midnight Feb 16: Download the Merlin Bird ID app and participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count (birdcount.org) for at least 15 minutes. See if you can find all nine birds featured in my picture book! The GBBC is a global citizen science annual event currently taking place (Feb 13-16, 2026) where people report birds they notice near them, and their data highlights in real time on a map.
As the author/illustrator of Birds Near My Home in the City by the Sea, this year, I am challenging all of West Seattle to participate to discover our bird neighbors and show the world what birds live here, and have added a virtual event to the map at bird count.org. It is super easy to use the app and honestly has opened my eyes and ears to all the birds around us. When I wrote the book, I pretty much only knew nine birds. Now I have 27 on my lifer list. Merlin enables someone to just tap the record button, and in real time it “hears a bird” and suggests what bird it is with photos and info, and the prompt to say “that’s my bird” and add it to your lifer list. That’s all you need to do to have your bird data added during the count!
And… Saturday, Feb 14 (today) from (now until) 2 pm, the Environmental Science Center’s Bird Fest is taking place at the Burien Community Center. I’ll be there with my book set up in the park as a story walk to play Bird Bingo and Trivia, and offering a bird suncatcher art activity. There will be live raptors and loads of info and activities for families. It’s a free event.
You can participate in the Bird Count without downloading an app, by the way – this page explains how. Lori adds, “I would love if people would send you their bird sightings from the weekend and any stories about birds so readers could share and compare lists of all the birds spotted near our home.” (Comments are great too.)
(Thanks to Janna for the Valentine’s decorations seen in Westwood)
Happy Saturday! This round of highlights includes some Valentine’s Day happenings too; it’s all mostly from the West Seattle Event Calendar:
SATURDAY GROUP RUN: At West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor), you can join the Saturday 8 am free group run.
FREE MEDITATION: Or, a quiet start to the weekend with Heavily Meditated, 9 am free meditation at Inner Alchemy Studio/Sanctuary (3620 SW Alaska).
INTRODUCTORY WALK and WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: 9:30 am, walk a mile before the 10 am well-being walk (or just show up for that one). Both start from 47th SW and Fontanelle.
VALENTINE’S DAY SALE AT SSC GARDEN CENTER: 10 am-3 pm, 14 percent off, plus roses are available! North end of campus at South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor)
SHREDDING AT DELRIDGE COMMUNITY CENTER: 10:30 am-12:30 pm, fee. (5423 Delridge Way SW)
MORNING MUSIC AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: 10:30 am-noon at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), Marco de Carvalho and Friends perform. Info about Marco’s music is here.
FREE WRITING GROUP: 10:30 am free, weekly, in-person, critique-free group – details in our calendar listing.
FAMILY READING TIME: At Paper Boat Booksellers, 11 am family reading time. (4522 California SW; WSB sponsor)
HEART-SHAPED PIZZA THAT HELPS: Valentine’s Day – and two more days afterward – is when to get heart-shaped pizza at Mioposto (2139 California SW; WSB sponsor) with part of the proceeds going to NW Immigrant Rights Project. Open 11:30 am-10 pm today.
VALENTINE’S BAKERY POP-UP: Mr. Bun’s Bakery is at WEND Jewelry (3276 California SW) with treats, noon-4 pm.
LOG HOUSE MUSEUM: The home of West Seattle’s history is open, noon-4 pm (61st SW and SW Stevens).
VIETNAMESE CULTURAL CENTER: The center is open to visitors noon-3 pm Saturdays, as explained here. (2236 SW Orchard)
RAT CITY VALENTINE’S MARKET: 12 pm-6 pm, browse vendors at various South Delridge and White Center venues including Mr. B’s Mead Center. (9444 Delridge Way SW)
VISCON CELLARS TASTING ROOM/WINE BAR: Tasting room open, with wine by the glass or bottle – 1-6 pm at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor).
EV SHOWCASE AT ALKI: 1-3 pm, Seattle’s Rivian team is showing off these EVs near (updated location) Bonair/Alki, demo drives available.
NORTHWEST WINE ACADEMY TASTING ROOM, WINE BAR, STORE: Open 1-6 pm on north end of South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus, with Valentine’s wine and chocolate tasting today.
OPEN MIC AT MR. B’S MEAD CENTER: 69 Love Spngs Open Mic, 1 pm-4 pm, no cover. (9444 Delridge Way SW)
FREE MASSAGE: 3-5 pm walk-in clinic offering short, specific massages at Nepenthe. (9447 35th SW)
LIVE MUSIC AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: 6-8 pm at C & P Coffeehouse (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), Kelvin Killmon performs “soulful acoustic rock.” Free, all ages.
ASTRA LUMINA: Held over into late winter, the celestially inspired light show on the grounds of the Seattle Chinese Garden at the north end of the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus, first admission 5:45 pm. Tickets and info here; extended through February.
VALENTINE’S DAY AT CORNER POCKET: 8 pm bingo, 10 pm “newlyweds’ game” open to any duo. (California/Alaska)
REVELRY ROOM: 9 pm, Valentine’s Day special with Soul Focus FM. (4547 California SW)
SK8 PARTY: 9 pm-midnight at Southgate Roller Rink (9676 17th SW), with rotating DJs spinning old-school funk & hip-hop, $18 plus $5 skate rental.
KARAOKE AT TALARICO’S: 10 pm karaoke at Talarico’s Pizzeria. (4718 California SW)
Have a West Seattle event coming up? If community members are welcome, your event is welcome to a listing on our calendar, free of charge, always! Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
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