West Seattle, Washington
27 Friday
Madison Middle School‘s interim principal will become its permanent principal. Seattle Public Schools superintendent Ben Shuldiner made that announcement today, as published on the Madison website:
I am pleased to announce that Dr. Scott Pierce has been selected as the new principal for Madison Middle School.
Since October, Dr. Pierce has been serving as the interim principal at Madison. In this time, he has worked to build strong relationships and effectively lead and support the range of programs at Madison. Prior to this experience, Dr. Pierce served as assistant principal at Rainier Beach High School. Dr. Pierce has extensive experience as a Principal and Curriculum and Professional Development Specialist with the Tulare County Office of Education in California. Across these roles, he has led curriculum development, supported teacher growth, managed budgets and school operations, and implemented data-driven, equity-centered instructional practices. Together, his education and professional experiences demonstrate a sustained dedication to literacy, instructional leadership, and systemic school improvement.
Dr. Pierce earned his Doctor of Education in Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California (2019), where his dissertation evaluated the impact of quality literacy instruction in juvenile court schools, reflecting his commitment to advancing equitable outcomes for underserved student populations. He also earned a Master of Arts in Reading with Distinction from California State University, Fresno (2013), focusing on strategies to close the achievement gap for struggling adolescent learners, and a Bachelor of Arts in English (Literature) from Sonoma State University (2002).
Dr. Pierce is committed to building on the strengths of the Madison community and is looking forward to working with Madison students, staff, families and community members to make a difference for each student, every day. Dr. Pierce will continue in his current leadership role the remainder of this school year with his official start date as the permanent principal beginning on July 1, 2026.
Please join me in welcoming Dr. Pierce to the Madison Middle School community.
The announcement did not mention Madison’s previous principal Dr. Robert Gary Jr., who had led the school for 12 years when he departed on what was announced as “health leave” six months ago.
A happier anniversary is days away – Arthur’s in Admiral celebrates nine years in business this Saturday. Leading up to the celebration, Arthur’s proprietor Rebecca Rice has brought back $5 draft beers, “a throwback to pricing back in 2017 when we opened!” That’s continuing until month’s end, but Saturday, March 28, is the big celebration day, with “a few additional throwbacks and celebratory bits, nothing overly formal, just hoping to provide a great excuse for people to come by, grab a drink, and celebrate with us.” Arthur’s (2311 California SW) will be open for its weekend brunch, 9 am to 3 pm, that day.
(WSB photo, March 2020),
March 23 is a day not to be forgotten by West Seattleites – the day in 2020 that we suddenly lost access to the high bridge, not to be reopened for two and a half years. When it closed with only hours’ notice because of concerns over cracks that SDOT said had been developing for years, city leaders had no idea how long it would stay closed, nor even – initially – what it would take to enable reopening. Ultimately, reinforcement work was done to address concerns that the bridge might even fall apart; then-Mayor Jenny Durkan subsequently had to decide whether to pursue replacing or repairing the bridge, and ultimately settled on the latter, at a cost of $67 million.
(2022 WSB photo)
The bridge reopened on September 17, 2022, so it’s been open 3 1/2 years since that 2 1/2-year closure. As we have done in advance of past closure anniversaries, we checked in with SDOT. First, here’s their general confirmation of how the bridge is going, in response to our inquiry:
The West Seattle Bridge remains safe and strong. We are still performing regular inspections of the West Seattle High-Rise Bridge and continuously observe the bridge remotely with an intelligent monitoring system of sensors installed at key locations which detect different kinds of movement.
(2021 photo from then-advisory committee member Anne Higuera)
Neither the in-person inspections or the remote sensors have identified any unexpected issues or cause for concern.
You might recall that preliminary work was done toward a potential replacement, for a jump-start in case the mayor had decided to go that way. We asked if that’s been revisited lately.
The West Seattle Bridge Replacement Study provided valuable insight into the complexity of potentially replacing the structure. It was important to create this contingency plan to make sure we were prepared to pivot quickly if the repair effort had not gone according to plan, which we were fortunate did not occur. We have no immediate plans to update this study because the bridge is now in stable condition and all evidence indicates that the repaired bridge will stand strong for decades to come.
Specifically, it remains projected that the high bridge will last at least until 2060. Meantime, the low bridge has had sporadic trouble, even after maintenance and upgrades in the past few years, and we have an inquiry out to SDOT regarding what’s ahead for that bridge.
Bidding has just begun in the online component of this year’s Arbor Heights Elementary PTSA fundraising auction – with a goal to “Bring Back to Music“! In harmony with the theme, this year’s online and in-person auction offerings include two items signed by members of Pearl Jam, donated by its frontman – including the guitar shown above. Here’s the announcement we were asked to share with you today:
Arbor Heights Elementary School is rallying community support to help bring music back to its students.
Due to district budget cuts, the school had to make difficult decisions for the 2025–2026 school year, including eliminating its music program. For Arbor Heights students, families, and staff, that loss has been deeply felt. Music is more than enrichment — it builds confidence, fosters connection, sparks joy, and supports learning across subjects.
That is the inspiration behind this year’s Arbor Heights PTSA auction theme: Bring Back the Music! The PTSA is working to raise as much money as possible to help reinstate the school’s music program.
The annual auction will be held on March 28, 2026, at The Hall at Fauntleroy and will include dinner, games, a live auction, an online silent auction, and a raise-the-paddle fundraiser.
The effort has even caught the attention of a famous neighbor. Musician Eddie Vedder has generously donated a Fender electric guitar signed by all five members of Pearl Jam (photo above), along with a poster also signed by the band (photo below). The signed guitar will be featured in the live auction on March 28.
While the event is currently sold out, there are still ways to support the cause. Arbor Heights is offering proxy/remote bidding for the live auction, including the signed guitar. Those interested in proxy bidding can contact ahptatreasurer1@gmail.com.
Community members can also support Arbor Heights by making a monetary donation through the Arbor Heights PTSA or by participating in the online silent auction. Your support is appreciated!
11:29 AM: If you’ve got eyes on Elliott Bay, you might see a gray whale again today, five days after one was sighted (last Wednesday). Kersti Muul tells us the gray whale is headed toward Elliott Bay Marina on the north side of the bay. Let us know if you see it!
9:59 PM: Thanks for sending photos! The one above is from James Tilley; these are from Steven Rice:
(Photo by Bucky Hayes-McQueen)
Here’s what’s on our list for your Monday, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (but not all, so check this list daily too, even if you’ve previewed the calendar):
FREE TAX HELP: 11 am-4 pm drop-in help at Alki Masonic Center. (4736 40th SW)
BABY STORY TIME: Noon at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW). Free.
‘SOLUTIONS, NOT RESOLUTIONS’: Weekly speaker series continues with 1 pm presentation on “Sharing Your Stories” at Brookdale West Seattle (4611 35th SW). Our calendar listing explains how to RSVP.
CITY COUNCIL BRIEFING MEETING: During today’s 2 pm City Council briefing meeting, a post-Legislature briefing is planned as well as councilmembers’ regular weekly individual updates. The agenda explains how to watch.
FREE HOMEWORK HELP: Drop-in assistance for K-12 students at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), 4-5:45 pm.
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)
MEDITATE IN ALKI: Monday night meditation at Alki UCC, doors open at 6:45, meditation at 7. (6115 SW Hinds)
CHALK, LIVE AT EASY STREET: 7 pm free, all-ages in-store concert by Chalk at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW) – buy the LP and get into the meet-and-greet too.
DATE CHANGE FOR EASY STREET MUSIC QUIZ: Because of the in-store show at the record store tonight, the every-other-week Music Quiz will be on Wednesday (March 25) this week, 6:30 and 7:30 that night instead.
MONDAY NIGHT TRIVIA X 2: But there are two other 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).
HIGH-SCHOOL BASEBALL: Home game for West Seattle HS vs. Garfield, 7 pm at Nino Cantu SW Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle).
CHESS NIGHT AT MISSION CANTINA: 7 pm upstairs: “All levels of chess players welcome. 5- and 10-minute games, over the board chess. Order food and drink at the bar.” (2325 California SW)
POOL TOURNAMENT: Pool players! 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).
Big thanks to everybody who sends info for our calendar; if you have something to add or cancel (or update), please send the info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
The man known to so many people as “Santa Al” has died. A memorial service is planned May 2 for Alan Edwin Vinson, Jr., whose family shares this remembrance:
Alan Edwin Vinson, Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, after a lengthy battle with Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension (CTEPH). He was surrounded by loved ones at the VA Hospital in Seattle as he transitioned peacefully.
Al was born on April 30, 1948, in Jackson, Minnesota, to Alan Edwin Vinson, Sr. and Virginia Rose (Hepp) Vinson. As a child in a military family, he moved around quite a bit and finally settled down in Seattle, where he attended West Seattle High School. It was there that he met his high school sweetheart, Mary Ellen Granquist after he asked her brothers to set them up for a date to the dance. Their love story began in those halls and grew into a marriage that spanned 56 devoted years.
A talented athlete, Al played baseball at the University of Washington before enlisting in the United States Army. Over the years, he worked in several industries before finding his stride at KAR Products, where he built a successful career as a salesman known for his automotive expertise, work ethic, and ability to connect with people.
Al spent his time outside of work at the Washington Athletic Club, playing handball, flying kites, or swinging a stick at any golf course he could find. He volunteered for years with the West Seattle Garden Tour, bringing color and joy to the community. He was also a notorious whiskey drinker, cigar enthusiast, and loved spending time with his beloved Mary Ellen, family, and friends in their West Seattle home – usually on the back deck or playing games.
Following retirement, Al embraced what many would call his true calling as a professional Santa Claus. Santa Al started this role as a hobby for the Holy Rosary Seattle Christmas tree lot due to his big, beautiful white beard. With his genuine warmth, booming laugh, and unmistakable beard, he became the best Santa Claus anyone could hope to meet and made people believe all over the Pacific Northwest. Bringing joy to children and families became one of the great pleasures of his later years.
Al was a committed and proud father to his four children: Kristi (Mike) Waugh, Mark, Jessie (Gerald) Beltran, and Heather (Mike) Smith. He was also a loving grandfather to Izzy, McKenna, and Jayden, who brought him immeasurable joy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Tom, sister Pat, and son Mark. Al leaves behind his wife, daughters, grandchildren, sisters Mary and Barb (Bob) Wilzen, and brother Jack (Johnna).
Al will be remembered for his kindness, humor, generosity of spirit, and the deep love he had for his family and community. His presence brought warmth to every room he entered, and his legacy of love and laughter will live on in all who knew him.
A Memorial Service will be held on May 2 at 11:00AM at Holy Rosary Catholic Church (4102 SW Genesee St).
To read his full obituary and share memories visit www.EmmickFunerals.com/obituaries/Alan-Vinson-JrThe family asks that donations be made in Al’s honor to West Seattle Garden Tour, and the Seattle Santa Heartcloud Foundation.
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
6:03 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Monday, March 23, 2026.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
Partly sunny, high in the low 50s. Sunrise at 7:05 am; sunset at 7:26 pm.
TRANSIT TODAY
West Seattle Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle service, winter schedule through April 10.
Washington State Ferries – Check WSF’s alert page for any changes. The Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth route is now on its spring/summer schedule, with 3 boats on weekends as well as weekdays.
Metro buses – Regular weekday schedule and routes.
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 (fully open but 25 mph speed limit):
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 trouble 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!
We’ve received several texts about this, and dispatch indicates many 911 calls, so we’re mentioning that what may have sounded like gunfire in the Beach Drive/Alki area, wasn’t. Seattle Police sent to check out the reports told dispatch that they’ve talked to people – including a parked ambulance crew – who saw fireworks.
Story by Tracy Record
Photos by Torin Record-Sand
For West Seattle Blog
The hottest party in West Seattle on Saturday night was tongue-burning, eye-watering hot.
It filled a paint shop in The Triangle with more than 100 people there to dare – they dared to try making it through 10 hot wings, progressing up the heat scale.
The invite-only gathering was “Hot Ones 10,” inspired by and named after a YouTube series.
This was the 10th annual version of what began as a gathering of friends in a back yard and has expanded exponentially to the size of last night’s party: ~500+ wings, donated by a local meat processor, with a nominal entry fee that added up to a donation of more than $400 for Unified Sports via the West Seattle Booster Club.
(L-R, Eric Tirnauer, Steve Cole, Sean Cummings, Paul Morton)
Party host was Sean Cummings, proprietor of All-Pro Painting, who noted that he and his friends’ kids are now teenagers and they bring the fire, so to speak. The party started two hours before the wings, which were prepared by Claiborne Bell and team at nearby Distinguished Foods Kitchens. Live music shook the shop courtesy of Ruston Rock – “my mom’s kick-ass cover band,” as Sean explained it.
(Mom’s the drummer.)
Videos of highlights from past Hot Ones looped on screens, while some wing-awaiters played foosball, ping-pong, and hoops – warming up for the hot stuff.
For a while, what was to come was only hinted at with bottles of milk and even hot-pink Pepto-Bismol strategically placed.
As the wings’ arrival neared, the room was reconfigured with two long tables for participants. Emcee Steve Cole, wearing a suit the color of most hot sauces, barked out the rules (most notably “you only have to take one bite” to survive a round of wings).
They took a count of who was in it for wings (including three vegetarians). The sauces were announced as the wings were distributed:
Advice was offered too – “try not to touch your eyes.” (Many pulled on gloves to avoid skin contact too.) Once everyone had their wing for the round, the countdown to eating it was “THREE, TWO, ONE, BURN!”
Three rounds in, no one looked too miserable, yet. This was truly a “for the fun of it” faceoff, though, as the only real prizes were beads, different collors depending on how far you made it.
As things got spicier, there was definitely capsaicin in the air.
(Even on the sidelines, your correspondent’s nose tickled.) After round #5, someone requested ice cream to calm their mouth, eliciting a round of good-natured boos. For round #6, emcee Steve announced it as “the real deal,” with a habanero-based sauce. But it took up to round #8 before a yelp or two was heard from somewhere in the crowd. “That one escalated quickly,” a wing-eater observed. Fist-bumping and milk-guzzling ensued.
This was not a “last person standing” type of event; we couldn’t stay all the way to the end of the wings, leaving after observing through round 8, but Sean tells us “about 80 percent” of the participants endured them all. He also tells us they ended up with a 150-wing surplus, so those were re-donated, to nearby Westside Neighbors Shelter.
Another neighborhood group with a notable event in the week ahead is the Fauntleroy Community Association. The FCA’s annual membership meeting Tuesday is known as the Food Fest because of bites contributed by local businesses. It’s also a chance to mingle with local nonprofits and what FCA describes as “civic-minded” organizations (we’ll be there to promote West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day, now just a month and a half away on Saturday, May 9). And the Food Fest will briefly convene everyone in attendance for the annual FCA board election. It’s a free event, but you’ll have the opportunity to renew or initiate FCA membership, supporting the organization’s community work. This will be in The Hall at Fauntleroy (9131 California SW), south end of historic Fauntleroy Schoolhouse, 6-8 pm Tuesday (March 24).
Notice something missing along the west stretch of Admiral Way? Paul Twibell sent the explanation:
The Cougulance is gone.
For over a decade, the Cougar Ambulance, “The Cougulance,” has held a spot in the 59th block of Admiral Way. Yesterday I sold it to a couple that lives in Pullman. It has been a staple at WSU during football season. It has been on Billboards, banners, news reports, and commercials. Twice it has appeared on ESPN’s Gameday.
(2020 screengrab from ESPN – West Point was a reference to an unrelated location)
It will have many more years of tailgating with its new owners.
Many of you loved it, some of you hated it, a few of you damaged it, a couple of you tried to have it towed. Thank you to all of you who appreciated it, and saw it as a West Seattle landmark. To the rest… whatever.
GO COUGS!
Paul Twibell
When SDOT held an online meeting earlier this month about the Highland Park Way lane-conversion project (WSB coverage here), community group HPAC‘s co-chair Kay Kirkpatrick got the project team to commit to something the coalition had long been requesting – attending an HPAC meeting to answer community questions. They’re keeping that promise this Wednesday (March 25), 6 pm at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW). HPAC’s meeting announcement says they’re hoping SDOT team members’ in-person appearance will allow “in-depth conversation with the community and a chance to really drill down into the work they are doing.” The project would convert the outside downhill driving lane on the Highland Park Way hill to a bicycle/pedestrian path; the newest version of the plan would separate that path from the remaining driving lane via removable jersey barriers as shown in graphic above), so it could revert to a driving lane in case of a major event like the 2020-2022 West Seattle Bridge closure. HPAC also hopes to update the Glassyard Commons RV/tiny-home site project at Wednesday’s meeting.
Christian J. Pearson‘s ceramic birds have a surprise inside, making them audible art too (hint: gently shake one). That was pointed out by one of the other five artists also in the “Feather in the Wind” pop-up, in its final day upstairs at Alki Arts in Morgan Junction (6030 California SW) until 6 pm. It’s a light-filled space, and not just because of the windows:
Jody Wally‘s ceramic work includes lamps – functional as well as beautiful. Or if you’re contemplating sending someone a note. Gretchen Flickinger has original prints on her cards:
Kassie Hennessey‘s feather studies inspired the pop-up’s name:
Angie Marcelynas – The Little Merle – incorporates recycled material into her jewelry, including new charm bracelets at this weekend’s pop-up:
Sketcher Pam Lustig is an addition to the “Feather in the Wind” roster since last pop-up:
You have until 6 pm to meet the artists, browse their work, and enjoy complimentary snacks – look for the staircase just north of the main Alki Arts entrance.
Mary Springer, a longtime luminary in the local performing-arts world, has died. Her family shares this remembrance with word of her memorial service next month:
Mary Opland Springer, a light to all who were lucky to know her, passed away on March 3, 2026, in Seattle. Services will be held at 2 pm on May 16th at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, 3050 California Ave SW, West Seattle. A reception will follow and all are welcome.
Mary was born on May 15, 1951, in Pipestone, MN, to AnnaMae and Allen (Al) Opland, the third of their three children. Their home was filled with music and laughter, and the gift of music would follow Mary throughout her life.
After moving to Missoula, MT, to finish her undergraduate degree, Mary met Rick Springer and on August 3, 1975, they married. She was a devoted and magical mother to their two children, Anna Cronin and Jonathan Springer.
In 1980 they moved to Seattle, where she spent the rest of her life teaching music and theater to kids across Puget Sound. Students who had the good fortune to attend her schools learned how to be brave, pushing themselves to try new things and reach new heights under her loving direction.
Mary was a deeply gifted educator who took great joy in crafting lessons and guiding students to explore material, helping them see the world with new eyes. She frequently taught other educators, held workshops at education conferences, and went back to school in her late 40s to get her master’s degree in education. Being an educator was an identity that she wore proudly.
Early in her career, she held theater summer camps that later blossomed into one of her proudest achievements – a community theatre troupe called Twelfth Night Productions (TNP). Over more than 25 years, TNP grew into a beautiful and welcoming community where artists could explore, find belonging, and create lasting friendships that are more like family. TNP became a beloved West Seattle institution, producing four shows a year, including an annual summer musical and holiday radio play.
Mary’s beautiful life touched thousands of lives, and the world is an infinitely better place because she was here.
Mary is survived by her family: husband Rick Springer, daughter Anna Cronin and son-in-law Travis Cronin, son Jonathan Springer and daughter-in-law Shally Springer, and grandchildren Cassius Springer, Oliver Cronin, Laila Springer, and Cecilia (Cece) Cronin.
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
(Cherry blossoms, photographed by Janelle Otterholt)
Here’s the event lineup for spring’s first Sunday (spring arrived on Friday!), mostly from our WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, but starting with an off-peninsula traffic alert:
SUNDAY FUNDAY RUNDAY: The Westies Run Club is meeting at Highland Park Corner Store at 9 am today for a today’s Sunday Funday run. (7789 Highland Park Way SW)
BUNNY PORTRAITS ALL BOOKED UP: Just an update on this calendar listing – no appointments left.
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.
WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: Open as usual on California SW between Oregon and Alaska, 10 am-2 pm, now in early spring produce-and-products season – roots, greens, peppers, mushrooms, cabbage, beans, garlic, apples, more – and lots of baked goods, cheeses, meats, fish, prepared foods, nuts, condiments, pasta …
WEEKEND SINGALONG BRUNCH: 10 am at Admiral Pub (2306 California SW), sing to hits of the ’80s, ’90s, ’00s and chow down on a buffet breakfast.
FREE NIA CLASS: Begins at 10:15 am; first class free if you pre-register. At Inner Alchemy Studio/Sanctuary. (3618 SW Alaska)
FOOD & SHOPPING POP-UP: 11 am-5 pm again today, “Good Foods and Vintage Goods” pop-up, featuring Highbrow Hedonist. (5001 Delridge Way SW)
WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Need a tool but don’t need/want 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 TAX HELP, BUT BE AWARE … 11 am-4 pm at Southwest Library, registration strongly encouraged as we’re told the slots have been all booked up. (9010 35th 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)
GROUP ART SHOW: Last of three days for Feather in the Wind group show upstairs at Alki Arts (6030 California SW), with six artists, noon-6 pm.
TIDEPOOLING: Seattle Parks is offering guided tidepooling today – meet at 1:30 pm at Constellation Park (63rd SW and Beach Drive SW), info here. Low tide is -1.2 feet at 2:09 pm.
PLANT-REPOTTING POTLUCK: 2 pm at Nepenthe (9447 35th SW), fun way to spring into spring.
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)
‘SMART PEOPLE’: Final performance of the play at Acts on Stage Theater at 3 pm; ticket info here. (10806 12th SW, White Center)
HOW TO WRITE AN OBITUARY: Whether it’s someone else’s, or your own, there’s an art to it, and you can learn about that at 3 pm today at West Seattle (Admiral) Library – our calendar listing has the registration link. (2306 42nd SW)
TRIVIA AT MR. B’S: 5-8 pm, play trivia at Mr. B’s Mead Center (9444 Delridge Way SW) with host Morgue Anne.
LIVE AT TIM’S: 7 pm Sunday night all-ages show at Tim’s Tavern, with Matt Unger, The Rolling Thunder,Velvet Armada, Sweet Cheeks; get tickets here. (16th SW & SW 98th, White Center)
UNDERGROUND TRIVIA AT CORNER POCKET: Trivia starts at 7:30 pm – free to play, and you can win prizes! (4302 SW Alaska)
LIVE JAZZ AT THE ALLEY: 8-10 pm,jazz to wrap up your weekend, with the Triangular Jazztet at The Alley (behind 4509 California SW).
BLACK TEA AT REVELRY ROOM: 9 pm late-night tea service with host Jack Sanders, RSVP here. (4547 California SW)
Organizing, or working on, an event that we could add to the WSB community calendar – whether one-time or recurring? Please email the basic details – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
(WSB file photo)
The Southwest Seattle Historical Society has another series of Alki History Walking Tours planned for the next half year, leaving the Log House Museum at 11 am on first and second Saturdays. Here’s what to know:
The Southwest Seattle Historical Society’s popular Alki History Walking Tour is back! Attendees will learn about the history of Alki Beach, the peoples who have lived here, and how settlement by various groups and individuals has left its mark on Alki. You’ll visit historic and cultural sites in the area and discuss how our understanding of the area and its people continues to evolve.
Tour stops include the Log House Museum, Fir Lodge/Alki Homestead, historic sites and monuments at Alki Beach, and Doc Maynard’s home in West Seattle.
Tours are offered rain or shine and include about one mile of walking with multiple stops. The tour is ADA accessible, although there are no stops that include seating.
This program is FREE although registration is required (attendance is capped at 20 sign-ups). Suggested $25 donations gladly accepted.
To register for a walking tour, please visit: loghousemuseum.org
(WSB photos)
The Sun was in attendance – not always the case – for astronomy educator Alice Enevoldsen‘s spring-equinox sunset watch last night, as were more than 30 people. For more than 15 years, as part of her role as a volunteer NASA Solar System Ambassador, Alice has led gatherings at West Seattle’s Solstice Park to mark the change of seasons. The park is relevant to those occasions not just because of its name but also because of its paths and markers that line up with the setting sun on equioxes and solstices.
Alice explained how to observe that.
Then, once official sunset time had passed (the sun vanishes a bit early this time of year because of the Lincoln Park forest to the west), Alice reconvened her 30+ attendees in the park plateau’s circle to explain the equinox (with the help of volunteer Decker serving as the Sun).
Alice’s season-change gatherings often also include a look ahead to big space/astronomy events/phenomena happening (or likely to happen) before the next solstice/equinox. This time, she previewed the upcoming Artemis II launch, which will send astronauts to the first Moon flyby in more than 50 years.
As Alice said, the first launch window for Artemis II starts on April 1st, and she hopes to lead a launch-watching gathering when it happens – that will likely be on short notice but we’ll publish where and when as soon as we hear. Meantime, Alice’s next change-of-seasons sunset watch will be for the first sunset of summer, Sunday, June 21, 8:30-9:30 pm.
Take a swing at something in the West Seattle HS Baseball Silent Auction – dozens of items from gift cards to golf to art – and you just might hit it out of the park! Here’s the auction announcement we were asked to share with you:
The West Seattle High School Baseball Silent Auction is now open, and bidding is live!
The auction is open to the public, so anyone can participate and support the WSHS Baseball program. Take a look at the great items available and place your bids today to help support our student-athletes. Everything from $30 Mariners tickets on the 100 level to amazing support from local businesses and families!
Bidding closes at 8:00 pm on March 28, 2026 (next Saturday).
You do not need to attend the event to participate or win. Winning bidders will be contacted (within 48 hours) after the auction closes to arrange pickup or shipping (shipping available for most items).
Every bid helps fund important needs for the program, including uniforms, equipment, training resources, and player development opportunities.
Browse the auction and start bidding today.
Thank you for supporting West Seattle High School Baseball and our student-athletes!
Their season is under way, too, and you can cheer the Wildcats at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle) – this week they host Garfield at 7 pm Monday and Cleveland at 2:30 pm Wednesday.
West Seattle’s soccer clubs Rhodies FC and Junction FC will finally have a full lineup of beverage offerings during their matches at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex. You can congratulate them and preview their upcoming seasons at a party one week from today – here’s the announcement we received:
Junction & Rhodies FC Fans Have A Reason to Celebrate!
After three years of advocacy, Seattle Parks and Recreation approved all 10 of Sunday match days for Junction & Rhodies FC to include a beer garden. This approval, alongside previous permissions for food trucks, PA system use, and scoreboard use allows the Clubs to offer a more social, community-centered atmosphere for fans and families.
To anchor the experience in local flavor, the Club has partnered with Future Primitive Brewing. The beer garden will feature a selection of canned beverages throughout the season, with a wine partner expected to join soon.
This milestone will be celebrated alongside the Club’s official 2026 kit launch at a kickoff party:
– When: Saturday, March 28, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
– Where: Ounces Taproom & Beer GardenThe first 50 registered attendees will receive a complimentary pint of Future Primitive beer, courtesy of our event sponsor, Ounces Taproom. Ounces is an all-ages venue, we encourage the whole family to come out, meet the coaches and players, and see this year’s new jerseys and merch.
With these long-awaited approvals in place, Junction & Rhodies FC’s Sunday matches are set to offer an expanded and engaging experience for all West Seattle fans!
Both clubs start their season May 10, with matches at home.
(WSB photos)
The first-ever free “community store” at Denny International Middle School – which we previewed on Monday – is just midway through its five-hour time span, but teacher Keenen Allen Ladd says it’s so successful already, they’ve canceled the U-Haul truck they were going to rent to re-donate leftovers. The Denny galleria is full of items for shoppers:
Food, beverages, and household items like detergent are all stacked on tables for shoppers to choose what they want, as well as tables of clothing; the store is a collaboration with Partnership for Hope. The only thing they’re running low on, we’re told, is bleach. Ladd told WSB that 266 people registered in advance and more have just shown up to sign up right before they shop. “Everyone’s welcome,” he and Denny principal Mary Ingraham told us. There was a bit of a line at the door but once inside, no waiting, and this is continuing until 2 pm. Denny is at 2601 SW Kenyon.
We’re in the south lot at South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor), new location for the annual free recycle/reuse/shred event presented by the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce and West Seattle Junction Association with a variety of partners. (Here’s what they will and won’t take this year.) First thing we noticed: No backup on 16th. You can approach from either direction. Not much of a wait once you’re in the lot. The line at the shredding truck is the main wait – see our top photo. It’s a two-step process this year – park, and take your stuff over to the trucks (there are volunteers with carts if needed).
This continues until noon.
(Photo by Jerry Simmons)
Happy Saturday! Welcome to the first weekend of spring. Our notes for today/tonight are as usual mostly from our West Seattle Event Calendar (if we’re missing something, text info ASAP to 206-293-6302):
SATURDAY GROUP RUN: At West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor), you’re invited to join the Saturday 8 am free group run.
SCOUTING FOR FOOD: As previewed here, today’s the day Scouts will return to neighborhoods where they left flyers asking people to put out donations for the West Seattle Food Bank. But if you didn’t get a flyer, you can still donate by dropping items off at West Seattle High School (3000 California SW) between 9 am and noon.
FREE COMMUNITY STORE: In need of food and/or household supplies? Community members, not just school families, are welcome 9 am-2 pm at this free community store at Denny International Middle School (2601 SW Kenyon).
FREE RECYCLE/REUSE DROPOFFS + SHREDDING: 9 am-noon is this year’s dropoff event presented by the West Seattle Junction Association and West Seattle Chamber of Commerce, this time in the SOUTH parking lot at South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor). The list of what they will and won’t take is in our calendar listing. Check back around 9:30 am for our first update on how it’s going.
SPRING DAY-SIT: 9 am-5:15 pm, spend the day with Puget Sound Zen Center at Fauntleroy UCC (9140 California SW).
FREE MEDITATION: Get a calming start to your weekend with Heavily Meditated, 9 am free meditation at Inner Alchemy Studio/Sanctuary (3618 SW Alaska).
BUNNY PORTRAITS: The appointment link indicates this special event at Three Little Birds is all booked up!
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.
LEARN ABOUT WATERING YOUR YARD/GARDEN: Free class about automatic sprinklers at West Seattle Nursery (5275 California SW; WSB sponsor). Class participants get 10 percent off purchases the day of the class!
’80s SINGALONG BRUNCH: 10 am, sing to ’80s classics with Trent Von from C89.5: Brunch, Mimosas and Sing-along. Table Reservation includes a Brunch Buffet! (2306 California SW)
SSC GARDEN CENTER: 10 am-3 pm, open today! New plants in! St. Patrick’s Day sale continues today. North end of campus at South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor)
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 resumes today – details including location are in our calendar listing.
FAMILY STORY TIME: 10:30 am at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), for families with kids up to 5 years old.
BIKE RIDE TO CELEBRATE NEW SAFETY INFRASTRUCTURE: Meet at 10:45 am on the bridge bike path behind Chelan Café (3527 Chelan Ave. SW) for a 24-mile ride to travel some of the city’s newest bike lanes.
SINGING RESISTANCE AT DRAGONFLY: First of two events for this group today – 11 am at Dragonfly (upstairs at 3270 California).
FAMILY READING TIME: At Paper Boat Booksellers, 11 am family reading time. (4522 California SW; WSB sponsor)
FOOD & SHOPPING POP-UP: 11 am-5 pm today and tomorrow, “Good Foods and Vintage Goods” pop-up. (5001 Delridge Way SW)
TERRAPLANTED TURNS 1: The first of two first-anniversary business celebrations in South Delridge – vendors, sale prices, and DJs at Terraplanted (9463 16th SW), open 11 am-7 pm today.
GEORGETOWN BITES AND SITES: 11 am-5 pm, our neighbor to the east welcomes visitors today for a unique multi-venue food fest. Get taste tickets at 5813 Airport Way South.
GROUP ART SHOW: Second of three days for Feather in the Wind group show upstairs at Alki Arts (6030 California SW), noon-6 pm.
HIGH-SCHOOL SOCCER: Chief Sealth IHS boys host Ballard, noon at Nino Cantu SW Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle).
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 for community visitors on Saturdays, noon-3 pm. Free. (2236 SW Orchard)
MARCHING CHORUS REHEARSAL: If you’re interested in marching and singing during next Saturday’s “No Kings” protest, come to today’s Singing Resistance rehearsal, 12:30 pm-2:30 pm at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church (3050 California 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).
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.
FREE PUZZLE SWAP: Drop in 2-4 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), “Bring a puzzle, take a puzzle and meet other puzzle enthusiasts!”
ANNIVERSARY PARTY AT MR. B’S: 2-8 pm at Mr. B’s Mead Center (9444 Delridge Way SW), it’s time to celebrate the first year, with live music, bottle-aged mead testing, and a collaboration with Wolfpack Cellars (WSB sponsor). Read our recent anniversary interview with Mr. B and Mrs. B here.
‘SMART PEOPLE’: Two performances of the play at Acts on Stage Theater – 2 pm and 7 pm; ticket info here. (10806 12th SW, White Center)
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), Roo Forrest and Friends with originals and covers. Free, all ages.
LISTENING PARTY AT EASY STREET: Hear the new album by Melanie Martinez, 7 pm at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW), free, all ages.
LIVE AT KENYON HALL Michelle Shocked performs at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW), 7:30 pm; ticket info’s in our calendar listing.
LIVE AT THE SKYLARK: 8 pm, James Carr Band, The Misbehavers, Pipe Dream, $10 cover, 21+. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
LIVE MUSIC AT AXE KICKING: Axe-throwing included in your $20 cover, with Outshined Acoustic Trio performing starting at 8 pm at Axe Kickers. (10843 1st Ave. S. in Top Hat)
LIVE AT TIM’S: Birdie Fenn Cent, Blue Jay Blue, Barry Brusseau, Joseph Giant at Tim’s in White Center, 8 pm. Tickets here. (16th SW & SW 98th)
REVELRY ROOM: 9 pm, DJ Julie Herrera with the tunes tonight. (4547 California SW)
BELLY DANCING: 9 pm at Mumbai Moonshine (2300 California SW).
SKATE 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: Use your voice! Karaoke with Rone starts at 10 pm at Talarico’s Pizzeria. (4718 California SW)
Have a West Seattle event coming up? If community members are welcome, your event is welcome on our calendar, where listings are free of charge, always! Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
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