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West Seattle, Washington

10 Thursday

61℉

Spotlight Stories


  • Orca

    NEW BABY ORCA: See who welcomed this calf

  • Art Walk

    WS ART WALK TONIGHT: What not to miss

  • Registration

    WS GARAGE SALE DAY: 1 month away; sign up now!

One month until West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day 2025, as registration continues
April 10, 2025 1:30 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   Community Garage Sale Day | West Seattle news

After nine days of registration, more than 220 sales are signed up for West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day 2025 – the 20th-anniversary edition of the annual day for what we call “person-to-person recycling,” all over the peninsula. This year’s WSCGSD is on May 10, the second Saturday in May as usual, 9 am-3 pm (you can start earlier and/or end later if you choose to). In addition to all the individual sales signed up, we have school groups, nonprofits, businesses, block sales … and watch for an update tomorrow on multi-seller sites, if you’re looking for someplace to sell YOUR stuff. Registration will continue for two more weeks, through April 24; if you are ready to register your sale, draft your up-to-25-words listing and go here to register! (Also as usual, the WSCGSD map will be available online – in interactive and printable-list formats – one week before sale day.)

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(TO BE) SEEN OFF WEST SEATTLE: Cruise season starts Saturday. Here’s what’s different
April 10, 2025 12:19 pm
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 |   Port of Seattle | Seen at sea | West Seattle news

(Norwegian Bliss arriving in April 2024 – photo by Lynn Hall)

The Port of Seattle sent a reminder today that cruise-ship season starts this Saturday (April 12) – here’s the full-season schedule, with the last scheduled cruise-ship call to be on October 19th. The port says it’s expecting 298 sailings with 1.9 million “revenue passengers, which comes out to more than 900,000 unique passengers.” The headline for today’s announcement (which you can read in full here) is that this is the first season with shore power available at all three of Seattle’s cruise-ship berths. (Update: We followed up to ask how many of the visiting ships are expected to use it. Port spokesperson Chris Guizlo told us 71 percent of the calls are shore-power-capable.) The berth closest to West Seattle is Pier 66 downtown, and that will host mostly Norwegian Cruise Line ships this season, including the one that starts the season on Saturday, Norwegian Bliss (also the first ship last year, as shown above). Among them will be a Seattle first-timer – the port notes, “This June, Cunard Line’s Queen Elizabeth will spend its first home port season in Seattle. The vessel will offer eleven sailings this season, with 7- to 11-day itineraries from June to September.”

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Holy Week/Easter services? Send your list for our list
April 10, 2025 11:18 am
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 |   Holidays | West Seattle news | West Seattle religion

With Easter just 10 days away, local churches are sending info for our seasonal list of services – including Holy Week – and other special events. If yours hasn’t, there’s still time; send the dates/times/brief descriptions to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you! (Here’s what we have so far. Several plan egg hunts, which we’ll be cross-referencing in a separate list before this weekend.)

P.S. Passover starts this weekend and we’ll list any community events we get word of, too.

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West Seattle Art Walk, Racoma at Easy Street, Words/Writers/SW Stories, park-hours hearing, ‘Athena’ opens, more for your Thursday
April 10, 2025 9:58 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

Big day and night around the peninsula! First, it’s West Seattle Art Walk night – here again is the venue list for both art exhibits and food/drink specials:

Our preview is here – don’t miss the Alki student-art displays – and this month’s guide to receptions and featured artists is here. Most events are 5-8 pm; scroll through this month’s guide for specifics. (WSB is an Art Walk sponsor.)

Now, here’s what else is happening, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

ONLINE AUCTION’S LAST DAY: In advance of Friday night’s Southwest Seattle Historical Society spring gala, the online auction concludes today and is open to all for bidding – go here!

SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: Spring is now in its fourth week! The center is open Thursdays-Saturdays 10 am-3 pm, north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus.

WEST SEATTLE UKULELE PLAYERS: All levels welcome to this weekly 1 pm gathering. Email westseattleukuleleplayerswsup@gmail.com to get info on where they’re playing today.

SPORTS: – One local high-school game today – West Seattle HS fastpitch softball vs. Lincoln at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle) at 4 pm.

HPCS FOOD-TRUCK VISIT: First of three regular Thursday night events tonight here – every Thursday, 4-8 pm, Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) gets a food-truck visit. Tonight it’s Paparepas.

WINE TASTING WITH CLARK: This is also an every-Thursday event at HPCS, 5-7:30 pm – info here.

HIGHLAND PARK RUN CLUB: HPCS is also starting point tonight for running 3 miles, or walking a shorter path, in the neighborhood near HPCS with the Run Club, leaving from the store at 6:30 pm – info here.

VISCON CELLARS: This West Seattle winery’s friendly tasting room/wine bar is open Thursdays, 5-9 pm (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor). Stop in for wine by the glass or bottle! And tonight – enjoy this quarter’s artist, as part of the West Seattle Art Walk.

WORDS, WRITERS, SOUTHWEST STORIES: 6 pm online, the Southwest Seattle Historical Society‘s monthly speaker series focuses on the history of photography this time – info, including how to get the link, is in our calendar listing.

WESTIES RUN CLUB: This group’s 6 pm weekly Thursday run now departs from The Good Society in Admiral (California/Lander).

ALL-AGES OPEN MIC: Signups for young musicians is at 5, music at 6, during this monthly event at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW)

WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Another way to get out on your feet tonight – meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fauntleroy for tonight’s group walk – details in our calendar listing.

LIVE MUSIC IN THE JUNCTION: 6-9 pm, Patrick Rifflin performs Thursdays at Pegasus Pizza in The Junction (4520 California SW).

ALKI BEACH HOURS: As we’ve been reporting, Seattle Parks is looking at hours changes for Alki Beach Park, Don Armeni Boat Ramp, and Hamilton Viewpoint. Tonight is the Parks Board public hearing, 6:30 pm meeting – the agenda includes info on how to participate, either online or in-person (downtown)

LIVE AT EASY STREET RECORDS: Racoma‘s album-release show is at 7 pm at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW)! Free, all ages.

TRIVIA: 7 pm at Burger Planet, hosted by Good Old-Fashioned Local Trivia (9614 14th SW).

DJ NIGHT: The weekend starts early at Revelry Room (4547 California SW), with DJ Supreme La Rock, starting at 7 pm.

‘ATHENA’ AT ARTSWEST: Opening-night performance, 7:30 pm at ArtsWest Playhouse (4711 California SW), for the new production “Athena,” by Gracie Gardner – get tickets here.

COMEDY: This month’s edition of Jokes at The Junction, 8 pm at Great American Diner and Bar (4752 California SW).

Are you planning an event that should be on our calendar and in our daily preview lists? Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!:

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Remembering Richard ‘Rick’ Cocker, 1952-2025
April 10, 2025 9:00 am
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   Obituaries | West Seattle news

Family and friends are remembering Rick Cocker, and sharing this with his community:

Richard “Rick” LeRoy Cocker, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and respected public-relations professional, passed away peacefully at home in West Seattle on April 3, 2025, at the age of 72.

Rick was born in Elgin, Illinois, to Myron and Marge Cocker, both of whom preceded him in death. He was raised in the Pacific Northwest and graduated from the University of Washington.

Rick’s career reflected both his sharp intellect and his steady, thoughtful nature. In high school, he spent summers in North Bend working on a forest fire crew for the Department of Natural Resources. During college, he worked as a copy aide at the Seattle Post-Intelligencer. After graduation, he took a reporting job at the Bellingham Herald. In 1977, Rick and his wife Pam embarked on one of their greatest adventures — moving to Washington, D.C., where Rick briefly worked for Congressman Lloyd Meeds and later served as Press Secretary to Senator Henry “Scoop” Jackson.

Following Senator Jackson’s passing, Rick and Pam returned to Seattle, where he led communications for the Port of Seattle. He later founded his own public-relations firm, The Cocker Company, which became Cocker Fennessy when he partnered with Anne Fennessy. Over the years, Rick took pride in representing a wide range of clients and industries — from aviation and maritime to education, Native American tribes, and all levels of government. He believed deeply in the power of clear, ethical communication and in doing work that made a difference.

Rick was also a strong advocate for supporting women in the workplace, a value rooted in admiration for his mother, Marge Cocker — one of the first female pilots in the Pacific Northwest and a former editor of Pacific Northwest Magazine at the Seattle Post-Intelligencer. Her trailblazing example shaped Rick’s deep respect for women’s leadership and voices throughout his life and career.

Rick married the love of his life, Pamela (Pam) Palmer, on June 23, 1973. They were married for over 50 years and built a beautiful life together. Rick is survived by Pam; their daughters, Sarah (Adam) Sherman and Claire (Matthew) O’Connell; and seven beloved grandchildren: Jane Sherman, Mae Sherman, Theodore Sherman, Harrison O’Connell, Eleanor O’Connell, Ford O’Connell, and Ruth O’Connell.

He is also survived by siblings Scott Compton, Robin Ihli, and Debbie Ahlers, and was preceded in death by his brother, Gary Cocker.

In retirement, Rick found joy in gardening, woodworking, photography, and daily walks on his treadmill — he took his Fitbit step count seriously. More than anything, he cherished time with Pam, his children, and his grandchildren. Rick was known for his kindness, calm presence, and quiet devotion. He lived by the words: “Always take the high road — it’s far less traveled.”

The family will celebrate Rick’s life privately.

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER, ROAD WORK: Thursday info
April 10, 2025 6:03 am
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 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:03 AM: Good morning! It’s Thursday, April 10, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Your Thursday forecast is for clouds this morning, showers and breeziness this afternoon, high around 65. Today’s sunrise/sunset – 6:29 am and 7:52 pm. (Next Wednesday brings the first 8+ pm sunset!)

TRANSIT TODAY

Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle servicen; spring/summer schedule, with later-in-the-evening sailings two nights a week, starts Saturday (April 12).

Metro buses – Regular schedule.

Washington State Ferries – Regular service on the Triangle Route, with M/V Kittitas and M/V Cathlamet, plus M/V Salish is serving as the “bonus boat”.

ROAD WORK

-The Admiral Way Bridge’s outside lane on the east/southbound side remains closed.

-The daily SW 100th closure in White Center, 15th to 16th, has been extended through the 18th, according to King County Roads. (Thanks to Gill for the heads-up.)

NEXT WEEK

–Seattle Public Schools are out on spring break next week.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:

Spokane Street Viaduct – This view usually looks westward, with eastbound lanes at left and westbound lanes at right:

Low Bridge – Looking west:

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!

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Saturday’s egg-hunt plan, plus other Fauntleroy Community Association toplines
April 9, 2025 8:22 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Fauntleroy | Neighborhoods | West Seattle news

By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor

The next big Fauntleroy Community Association-organized event, this year’s Egg Hunt, is just three days away. It was one of the major topics at last night’s FCA board meeting, led by FCA president Frank Immel. FCA’s annual membership meeting was just three weeks ago; its board meets most months on the second Tuesday, but community members are always welcome at those meetings too.

EGG HUNT: Candace Blue coordinates it for FCA andprovided an update. It’s at 1 pm this Saturday (April 12) at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse (9131 California SW). She said there were so many returned and donated plastic eggs that they have 600 to hide this year, up dramatically from the 359 last year; if you’re participating, look for the bins to use to recycle your eggs afterward. The littlest kids will get a head start right at 1, before the older kids get their turn; last year, Candace said, the hunt began with 60 kids. Another number she’s happy about – a dozen-plus volunteers have signed up to help hide eggs before the hunt. The eggs will be filled with non-candy treats, and there will be 10 “special prizes” (only one per family, please). If you’re going, look for wayfinding signs that will point you to where it’s happening on the Fauntleroy Schoolhouse grounds.

Other major topics last night:

Read More

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WEST SEATTLE SCHOOLS: Principal sends families note saying ‘ICE vehicle was seen’ in district-owned lot nearby
April 9, 2025 6:03 pm
|      25 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

Earlier today, a parent asked us about a secondhand report of an ICE sighting at or near Denny International Middle School today. We were unable to confirm it, and didn’t hear any other reports, but families have since received this note from Denny principal Mary Ingraham:

It was brought to our attention that a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) vehicle was seen in the Southwest Athletic Center parking lot today.

The recent announcement regarding the removal of protected areas from immigration enforcement and the possibility of ICE entering schools to deport students is deeply troubling to our district and community.

Our school and the SPS Safety and Security team responded immediately and effectively, and our school remains entirely safe. We also followed district procedures regarding immigration. Because our 8th grade students were outdoors on the field during lunch, we brought them inside early.

Please know at no point were our students or staff at any risk. We acted proactively to ensure safety. It is confirmed that the vehicle has left the area.

I spoke directly with 8th grade students because we believe in being transparent in our leadership and with our students. I explained to them that their safety is our priority, and we acted out of an abundance of caution.

As a reminder, Seattle Public Schools (SPS) remains steadfast in our commitment to providing safe, welcoming, and inclusive learning environments for every student, regardless of race, religion, national origin, immigration status, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

We are deeply committed to the well-being of every student, family, and person in our care. Thank you for trusting us to look after your children each day.

Warmly,

Principal Mary Ingraham
Denny International Middle School

The Southwest Athletic Complex, owned by SPS, is across SW Thistle from the campus shared by Denny IMS and Chief Sealth IHS. District policy “limiting immigration enforcement” can be read here and here. Meantime, SPS has two more days of classes before schools close for spring-break week.

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HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! West Seattle Runner turns 15 – you’re invited to special demo runs and more
April 9, 2025 4:28 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

(WSB photo, Tim and Lori McConnell, just before store opened in April 2010)

Independent, locally owned West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor), the peninsula’s only runner-focused store, is about to mark a milestone – 15 years in business! The store opened (in its original location) on April 10, 2010. They’re inviting you to special events starting this Friday – here’s the lineup, from WSR proprietors Lori and Tim McConnell, who explain, “This is a thank you for doing the last 15 years with West Seattle Runner. We are so grateful to you for your support”:

Friday 11th 6:15 pm:
–New Balance Demo Group Run. You can try out a pair of New Balance to run in at no charge. We will serve cupcakes afterwards=.

Saturday, April 12th
–Mizuno and Superfeet Group Run at 8 am. You can try out Mizuno and Superfeet on your run. We will follow up the run with donuts and chocolate milk.
– Mark Bouma, owner of Lake Washington Physical Therapy-West Seattle, will be onsite doing 1:1 assessments from 8:40 to 10:30 am.
-We will have Hawthorne Massage doing chair massage 10 am-12 noon.

Sunday the 13th
-We have a Brooks Demo Group Run at 10 am with a warm-up with Seattle Sports & Performance. We will serve beverages afterward.
–Hawthorne chair massage that day 11 am-1 pm.

Also: We will have raffle prizes drawing at the end of the weekend … Tim’s sister, Kelly, will be here for you to demo Bemer all weekend, pulsed electromagnetic field, which always restores my energy and cuts down on injury healing time, thankfully!

Additional events for Apri will include Biojunction PT injury assessments on the 14th, 4:30-6 pm; a Seattle Sports & Performance workout at the shop at 6:15 pm on the 24th; the April “birthday run” will be Tuesday, April 29, 6:15 pm, with a trip to Good Society afterward (walkers also welcome); and the month concludes with Sound PT visiting 6-7 pm April 30 for individual injury assessments. Haven’t been to West Seattle Runner? The shop is across from the west side of Hiawatha, 2743 California SW.

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PREVIEW: Three don’t-miss things about tomorrow night’s West Seattle Art Walk
April 9, 2025 2:12 pm
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle Art Walk | West Seattle news

Whatever the weather, tomorrow night brings April’s West Seattle Art Walk – always the second Thursday of the month – and here are three don’t-miss things:

STUDENT ART ON ALKI: Beach businesses are jumping back into the Art Walk in a big way! As summarized by the Alki Community Council, here’s the plan for 5-8 pm Thursday:

Come out and enjoy the West Seattle Art Walk with a special Alki twist! Don’t miss the debut of Alki Elementary 5th-grade masterpieces, proudly displayed at:

West Seattle Arcade
Gary’s Place
Alki Hair Design
Log House Museum
Blue Moon Burgers

ART WALK POSTER ARTIST RECEPTION: Every quarter, new art is featured on the official West Seattle Art Walk poster, and there’s a reception for the artist at one of the participating venues – this quarter’s poster artist – see her work above – is Bev Hill, who will be showing at NOR Design and Construction (5953 California Ave SW, Suite 100), 5-8 pm.

FOOD AND DRINK: As Art Walk director Molly Ryan points out, many Art Walk stops “serve snacks and drinks during Art Walk, which makes it an EXCELLENT activity for the whole family in addition to a date night idea!” You also can stop into the restaurants and bars that are officially participating by offering specials to Art Walk visitors – see the list above (and junction-by-junction here).

Preview more of what’s happening tomorrow night – venues, artists, reception hours – by scrolling through this update on the Art Walk website!

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BIZNOTE FOLLOWUP: Ex-Alki Cafe space now for lease
April 9, 2025 1:03 pm
|      10 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

Four months after eviction forced the sudden shutdown of Alki Café (2726 Alki Avenue SW), it’s finally posted for lease. Checking out the beach area this morning for the first time in several days, we noticed the window signage. So far, though, we haven’t found an online listing, so we have an inquiry out to the leasing entity, Pacific Crest Real Estate, in hopes of details.

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FOLLOWUP: Low-low tides on the way, and so is revised beach-naturalist schedule
April 9, 2025 11:25 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle beaches | West Seattle news

(2024 low-low tide photo from Tom Trulin at Lincoln Park)

With minus tides on the way next week, and very low tides expected at month’s end, we checked in with the Seattle Aquarium to find out if they have assembled a schedule for this year’s Beach Naturalist program. Aquarium spokesperson Tim Kuniholm says they are working toward a mid-April deadline and will be able to talk about the details of the program after that. As we’ve been reporting, after reader tips, the program is being reorganized after aquarium-staff layoffs earlier this year, and is expected to be significantly scaled back from its previous reach, with 300+ volunteers at beaches across the region, including Lincoln Park and Constellation Park. Last year, Aquarium-coordinated naturalists staffed 11 beaches, each with 22 low-tide events from May to July. We’ll have another update when the new plans are finalized.

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Theater, poetry, soccer, politics, much more for your West Seattle Wednesday
April 9, 2025 10:06 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Photo by Kevin Freitas, West Seattle as seen from above this morning)

Here’s what’s up for the rest of your Wednesday, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

TODDLER READING TIME AT PAPER BOAT: 10:30 am at the bookstore’s new location. (4522 California SW)

REJUVENATE YOGA: Weekly class at Viva Arts, 1:30 pm. Drop-in. $20. (4421 Fauntleroy Way SW)

AMERICAN MAH JONGG: All levels welcome, 2-4:30 pm at The Missing Piece (35th/Roxbury).

TODDLER STORY TIME AT SW LIBRARY: 3-3:30 pm, come enjoy story time with your toddler(s)! (9010 35th SW)

SPORTS: Two local soccer matches – West Seattle HS vs. Lincoln at 4 pm at Walt Hundley Playfield (34th/Myrtle), Chief Sealth IHS vs. Franklin at 4:30 pm at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle).

HOMEWORK HELP: 4-7:30 pm free drop-in help at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).

DINE-OUT FUNDRAISER AT MARINATION: 5-8 pm, you can order from Marination ma kai (1660 Harbor SW) and if you mention the Alki Co-op Preschool fundraiser, part of the proceeds will go toward the school – more info in our calendar listing.

FIX-IT WORKSHOP: Fix it instead of discarding it! Weekly event, free (donations appreciated), 5:30-7:30 pm at West Seattle Tool Library (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center).

34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS: Pre-meeting presentation starts at 6, meeting at 7, online this month – details in our calendar listing, including the link for registering to attend.

COFFEEHOUSE POETRY: 6-8 pm, it’s the monthly night for PoetryBridge at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor).

CRIBBAGE NIGHT: Monthly event at West Seattle Eagles (4426 California SW), 6 pm, all levels and ages, membership not required, coincides with Taco Night if you want to have dinner too!

WEST SEATTLE URBANISM: Open invitation to the group’s weekly meetup, 6-8 pm at Great American Diner & Bar. (4752 California SW)

FREE GROUP RUN: All runners, all levels, are invited to join the weekly West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) group run – meet at the shop by 6:15 pm.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE LOCOL: 6:30 pm. 21+. Rotating performer slate. (7902 35th SW)

KUNDALINI YOGA & GONG BATH: 7 pm at Inner Alchemy Studio/Sanctuary (3618 SW Alaska), $35.

MUSIC BINGO: Play at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7 pm.

PREVIEW NIGHT AT ARTSWEST: 7:30 pm at ArtsWest Playhouse (4711 California SW), it’s discount preview night for the new production “Athena,” by Gracie Gardner – get tickets here.

TRIVIA x 3: Three Wednesday trivia locations on our West Seattle list: Larry’s Tavern (3405 California SW) hosts Wednesday-night trivia starting at 8 pm … Quiz Night also starts at 8 pm at Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW) … and at 8:30 pm, trivia with Phil T at Talarico’s (4718 California SW), all ages until 10 pm.

SKYLARK OPEN MIC: Ready to step up to the mic? 7:30 pm signups for West Seattle’s longest-running open mic. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

Planning an open house, reading, tour, fundraiser, sale, discussion, show, meeting, presentation, etc., that’s open to the community? Please send us info so we can add it to West Seattle’s only comprehensive event calendar! westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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Also off West Seattle this morning: Orcas
April 9, 2025 9:44 am
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | Whales

9:44 AM: If you’re in view of west-facing West Seattle shores, Kersti Muul tells us a “small group of orcas” is southbound, south of Alki Point, east side of the channel. Let us know if you see them!

10:18 AM: Update from Kersti – still southbound, now off Me-Kwa-Mooks/Emma Schmitz (4500 block Beach Drive SW), “east of mid-channel.”

11:02 AM: Kersti reports transient orca T65A5, “the guy who likes to be alone and play in fishing/crab gear,” is close in, approaching the Fauntleroy ferry lanes.

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SEEN OFF WEST SEATTLE: Cruise ship American Constitution
April 9, 2025 9:05 am
|      11 COMMENTS
 |   Seen at sea | West Seattle news

Thanks to Chris Frankovich for the photo! Northbound off West Seattle right now, that’s American Constitution, operated by American Cruise Lines, which trackers show headed out from Tacoma this morning. Looks like you’ll see it around our area for a while, as its upcoming schedule starts with a cruise around Puget Sound and the San Juans, round trip from Seattle starting Saturday.

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TRAFFIC, WEATHER, ROAD WORK, TRANSIT: Wednesday info
April 9, 2025 6:03 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:03 AM: Good morning! It’s Wednesday, April 9, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Your Wednesday forecast is for a partly sunny day, high expected in the upper 50s. Today’s sunrise/sunset – 6:31 am and 7:51 pm.

TRANSIT TODAY

Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle servicen; spring/summer schedule, with later-in-the-evening sailings two nights a week, starts this Saturday.

Metro buses – Regular schedule.

Washington State Ferries – Regular service on the Triangle Route, with M/V Kittitas and M/V Cathlamet, plus M/V Salish is serving as the “bonus boat”.

ROAD WORK

-A reader says the 45th SW sinkhole near SW Edmunds finally has a metal plate over it (after they asked SDOT about its status).

NEXT WEEK

–Seattle Public Schools are out on spring break next week.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:

Spokane Street Viaduct – This view usually looks westward, with eastbound lanes at left and westbound lanes at right:

Low Bridge – Looking west:

1st Avenue South Bridge:

Delridge cameras: Besides 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!

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BIZNOTE: New name, owner for what was Fleurt in the West Seattle Junction
April 8, 2025 8:55 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

(Images courtesy Fleurt/Willow)

Big announcement from the shop at 4536 California SW in The Junction – a new name and new owner (who customers will already know well)

Hi friends,

We have some exciting news to bring to the neighborhood!

In 2010, Fleurt was founded in the heart of the West Seattle Junction as a small flower shop. Over the years, it grew into something more — a cozy, curated space filled with plants, home goods, accessories, and heartfelt community connections.

As we celebrate 15 wonderful years, we’re thrilled to share that Fleurt is now becoming Willow. While the name is changing, the spirit remains the same. We’re still a family-run business, and now, Keonii – daughter of original owner Sam — will be taking the reins as owner, continuing to lead day-to-day operations with the same love and care you’ve come to know.

At Willow, you’ll still find your favorite brands, along with fresh new finds in jewelry, accessories, clothing, wellness, plants, and home decor.

Join us to toast this exciting new adventure on Saturday, May 3rd from 5-8 PM — we’ll have bubbles, snacks, and lots of love to go around.

Thank you, West Seattle, for 15 amazing years of support. We’re so grateful, and we can’t wait to continue growing with you in this beautiful little corner of the world we all call home.

As our very first story about Fleurt, in 2010, reminds us, the shop originally was located at California/Oregon.

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WEST SEATTLE WEATHER: From dark clouds to bright rainbow
April 8, 2025 5:45 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle weather

Thanks for the photos capturing this multi-faceted stormy afternoon/evening! Above, Chris Frankovich photographed one of the approaching cloudbursts. Below, Wyatt was first to send a view of the full rainbow arch:

Next, Steve Pumphrey caught it from Duwamish Head:

Further west, Karen Carlson photographed it at Alki Statue of Liberty Plaza:

More to come.

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YOU CAN HELP: April showers bring May flowers – in fundraising bouquets!
April 8, 2025 4:49 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   How to help | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

(Photo by Jerry Simmons)

Some flowers are blooming and more are on the way! Here’s word of a citywide flower fundraiser for PTA/PTSA equity funds including West Seattle – and if you participate, there are pickup dates/places in West Seattle:

The SESEC (Southeast Seattle Education Coalition) Mother’s Day Flower Sale is open until May 2nd. Our West Seattle pickup locations are Gatewood Elementary, May 10th, from 10 am-12 pm, and Alki Elementary @ Schmitz Park from 1 pm-3 pm

This is the only fundraiser to do as a whole city, to support all 3 public school equity funds.

HOW IT WORKS

This year’s flower sale features an updated giving model.

By choosing one of the three Equity Funds that comprise 46 member schools, $20 of your checkout total will be donated.
The donation will be divided in half, with one portion going directly to the selected Equity Fund and the other portion being added to a Title 1 pool.

SESEC will then redistribute the pooled funds among the Equity Funds based on their Title 1 school count. The three Equity Funds will subsequently allocate their distributions to their member schools according to their own unique equity models.

FLOWERS

We’re pleased to announce that our commitment to supporting farmers with living wages remains strong. $30 per bouquet goes to the farmers. Friendly Johnson-Vang, the founder of this flower sale initiative launched in 2020, has partnered with the PNW BIPOC Farmland Trust, an organization led by BIPOC farmers to hold farmland and support services for BIPOC farmers. The remaining $10 from each bouquet sale will cover administrative costs associated with running the flower sale.

THREE EQUITY FUNDS

CANSSPA: Central and North Seattle Schools PTA Alliance has16 member schools, 50% Title 1: Adams, Bailey Gatzert, James Baldwin, John Rogers, Leschi, Licton Springs K-8, Lowell, Loyal Heights, McDonald, Olympic Hills, Sacajawea, Salmon Bay K-8, Stevens, Viewlands, Wedgwood, West Woodland.

SESSFA: SE Seattle Schools Fundraising Alliance has 17 member schools, 94% Title 1: Aki Kurose MS, Beacon Hill, Dearborn Park, Dunlap, Emerson, Graham Hill, Hawthorne, Kimball, John Muir, Maple, Mercer MS, MLK Jr, Orca K-8, Rainier View, Rising Star, South Shore K-8, Wing Luke.

WSPSEF: West Seattle Public School Equity Fund has 13 member schools, 38% Title 1: Alki, Arbor Heights, Concord, Gatewood, Genesee Hill, Highland Park, Lafayette, Pathfinder K-8, Roxhill, Sanislo, West Seattle, Louisa Boren STEM K-8, Fairmount Park.

Here is the website to order flowers – again, May 2 is the ordering deadline, May 10 (the day before Mother’s Day) is the pickup date.

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REMINDER: Parks Board hearing Thursday on newest summer-hours proposal for Alki Beach, Don Armeni, more
April 8, 2025 2:43 pm
|      7 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle parks

By Hayden Yu Andersen
Reporting for West Seattle Blog

This Thursday (April 10), the city’s advisory Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners is holding a public hearing and possible vote on park-hours changes for this summer. Some of the proposals concern West Seattle parks, as we first reported last month.

If you’d like to attend the hearing or provide comments on the proposed changes, you can show up in-person or on Zoom, as explained on the agenda document. The meeting is at Parks HQ at 100 Dexter Ave. N. downtown and begins at 6:30 pm Thursday.

Key points of the proposal: Permanent seasonal changes that will apply every summer going forward are proposed for several parks, including Alki Beach.

The proposal basically would have parks closing one hour earlier. Here’s the slide used during last month’s briefing, which shows the proposed hourly changes for Alki and other parks.

“Seasonal” means Memorial Day to Labor Day, in this context.

Another West Seattle waterfront park, Don Armeni Boat Ramp on Harbor Avenue, also has a seasonal hour change proposal from 24 hours to 4 am to 10:30 pm, which is in alignment with the proposed hour changes for Alki and others.

One more West Seattle note – Hamilton Viewpoint Park has a proposed permanent hourly change from 4 am to 11:30 pm to 6 am to 10 pm.

As explained on the agenda document, if you want to comment during the hearing, sign up via email before 5 pm Thursday. The final decision is up to SPR Superintendent AP Diaz to make next month.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Child’s bike stolen
April 8, 2025 1:34 pm
|      10 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Reader report from Ty:

Someone stole my daughter’s bike last night locked up in front of our house on Delridge Way near the Playfield.

I don’t have the heart to tell her yet but will shortly. I walked the block and no sign of it.:(

If you see it, let us know and we’ll connect you.

ADDED 2:27 PM: We asked Ty for the basic description – it’s a teal GT Stomper, 20″. A police report has been filed – temporary number T00027576.

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WHALES: New calf for Southern Residents’ J-Pod (photos added)
April 8, 2025 11:31 am
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | Whales

(Added: Photo by Mark Malleson, Center for Whale Research. Taken under DFO SARA License XMMS 2 2023. Republished with permission)

A new Southern Resident orca calf! The Center for Whale Research just published this announcement:

The Center for Whale Research has some exciting news! We are pleased to announce the arrival of a new calf in J Pod!

On April 6, 2025, CWR Field Biologist Mark Malleson located J Pod as they traveled west past Victoria Harbour. During this encounter, he observed and documented a newborn calf swimming closely alongside J40. This is J40’s first known calf and the fourth born into the Southern Resident killer whale population in the past 12 months – a sign of hope for this endangered community.

(Added: Photo by Mark Malleson, Center for Whale Research. Taken under DFO SARA License XMMS 2 2023. Republished with permission)

Based on initial observations of the new calf, now designated J63, there are no immediate concerns. However, the first year of life is often a challenging time for young whales, particularly those born to first-time mothers.

We remain cautiously optimistic about J63’s survival and will conduct follow-up observations of the calf’s behavior and physical condition in the coming days and months, as opportunities allow. Each new calf is vitally important to this critically endangered population – every birth counts – and we’re hopeful that this young whale will continue to thrive.

More info to come.

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Still need to shred? John L. Scott Westwood announces your next chance!
April 8, 2025 11:24 am
|      6 COMMENTS
 |   Environment | West Seattle news | Westwood

(WSB photo, April 2024)

Last year, John L. Scott Westwood Real Estate/The Madrona Group (WSB sponsor) shredded almost two tons of paper during their free shredding event at Westwood Village. We just got word they’re offering free shredding again this year, and again it’ll be part of a donation drive for White Center Food Bank. Just bring your shredding – and a donation of nonperishable food and/or money – to the northwest area of the Westwood Village parking lot between 9 am and noon on Saturday, April 19. (And if you have friends in the north/east metro area, take note that – as also shown on this flyer – they’re presenting a 1-4 pm shredding event in Kenmore the same day.)

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