This time the report is from Pauline in the Fairmount Park area:

I was just outside watering our garden when I noticed that our LFL was completely cleaned out. They left the pencils and bookmarks; I guess these items weren’t good enough! I am heartbroken to think someone would do this. I have read similar stories on the blog. What is wrong with people?!

WEEKEND PREVIEW: West Seattle HS All-School Reunion on Saturday

| West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

Tomorrow (Saturday, June 7), 4-7 pm, the West Seattle High School Alumni Association welcomes all WSHS alums back to the campus for the annual All-School Reunion. It’s a start-of-summer tradition for the Alumni Association to organize this gathering to reconnect with schoolmates, celebrate student achievements, induct alumni into the Hall of Fame, and recognize members of the community.

This year, the two Hall of Fame inductees are Class of ‘66 graduate Kevin Mason, a professional vocalist with 50 years of experience, and Class of ‘63 graduate Gary Drobnack, an international forestry consultant and philanthropist.

The alumni publication Chinook has their stories as well as detailing 68 student scholarship recipients. 42 new scholarships for graduating seniors, and 26 scholarships for returning students. It also lists graduating class-specific events, including the Class of ’75‘s 50th reunion bash, at the West Seattle Golf Course. The day after, Sunday, June 8th, the Class of ’80 will be hosting its 45th reunion from 6-9 pm at Kenyon Hall.

The WSHS Alumni Association’s website has the schedule for tomorrow’s All-School Reunion events, including the traditional Classic Car Show on the driveway west of the historical entrance, also starting at 4 pm.

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WEATHER ALERT: ‘Heat Advisory’ for Sunday and Monday

June 6, 2025 7:47 pm

| 0 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle weather

Time to get the fans ready if you don’t have A/C – the National Weather Service has announced a Heat Advisory alert for Sunday and Monday. The alert warns of “hot conditions with high temperatures up to 85 to 90 degrees,” and is currently planned to be in effect 10 am Sunday to 10 pm Monday. The alert also warns, “Heat will significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses for those who are sensitive to heat, especially those without effective cooling or adequate hydration.” Today’s high was 79 degrees, 10 degrees above what the NWS says is the seasonal norm.

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CONGRATULATIONS! Summit Atlas Class of 2025 celebrates commencement

June 6, 2025 5:29 pm

| 1 COMMENT

| West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

PHOTOS BY OLIVER HAMLIN FOR WSB

Summit Atlas, West Seattle’s only charter school, has just begun summer break. Hours before the last classes of this school year, the middle/high school’s 67 graduating seniors gathered for their commencement ceremony.

(Graduating senior Masarra Aljanabi speaking)

This year’s ceremony was held last night at South Seattle College‘s Brockey Center.

(Graduating senior Genesis Desiree Victorio-Contreras embraces teacher Deborah Haislip)

Proud families and friends filled the event venue to help launch the grads into their post-high-school lives.

(Ofelia Cortes takes a moment before thanking her parents)

This year’s graduating class is twice the size of Summit Atlas’s first one back in 2021.

Summit Atlas ASB President Ella Galaites (below) also took to the podium to congratulate her classmates:

Mentors – including teacher Mandy Vu (below) – gave personal remarks about every student graduating:

Next commencement ceremony for a local high school will be Chief Sealth IHS, Wednesday, June 11, 8 pm at Memorial Stadium downtown, which is also where West Seattle HS‘s ceremony is planned for 5 pm Tuesday, June 17.

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MORE MURALS: Sanislo Elementary gets art, and more, from 150 volunteers

June 6, 2025 4:27 pm

| 2 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

Thanks to Sanislo Elementary teacher Shannon Crowley for the photos! Above are some of the 150+ volunteers from Deloitte who descended on the Puget Ridge school today for volunteer work including mural painting. The one above is on a portable, and this one in the gym features the school’s namesake, Seattle Fire Captain Stephen Sanislo, who according to this HistoryLink vignette spent 31 years educating children about fire safety:

P.S. Here’s another photo of the portable mural, after it was complete:

Other Sanislo projects planned for the volunteer TLC today included garden beds. This was part of their company’s “Impact Day.”

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PHOTOS, VIDEO: Fun with a purpose at ‘Night Out with WestSide Baby’

June 6, 2025 3:06 pm

| 4 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | White Center

WestSide Baby board of directors members

Story, photos and video by Jason Grotelueschen
Reporting for West Seattle Blog

A festive crowd of supporters gathered Thursday night at the WestSide Baby warehouse headquarters in White Center, to kick off summer in style at A Night Out with WestSide Baby 2025, the organization’s iconic annual fundraiser event and celebration. All proceeds from the event will help the organization provide essential items to thousands of local children and their families.

WestSide Baby was founded in 2001 “in a new mom’s garage” in West Seattle, and celebrates its 25th anniversary next year. The group fulfills an average of 400 orders per week, and in 2024 was able to distribute $3.29 million in diapers, clothing, and essential equipment to families in need. The organization won the Not for Profit of the Year award last month as part of 2025 Westside Awards from the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce, as we reported here.

The event on Thursday featured food and drink, music, games, guest speakers, a silent auction and “raise the paddle” fundraising, with attendees getting an inside look at WestSide Baby HQ during the festivities:

Organizers emphasize that, yes, providing diapers for kids in need is crucially important to the group’s mission, but they also provide much more than that: think clothing, books, toys, wipes, baby food, car seats and all manner of baby supplies. To that point, taped to the back of every action paddle on Thursday night was a printout of an actual order fulfilled by WestSide Baby just in the past week! One example:

And those paddles were put to good use at the event, with attendees bidding generously to support WestSide Baby’s mission, including this high-participation “raise the paddle” round in which bidders could hold up their fingers to indicate how many boxes worth of size 6 diapers (the group’s most high-demand diaper size) they’d be willing to help buy:

Here is our video of that “raise the paddle” round, which is just one of the many giving levels that attendees participated in, ranging from $45 (the cost of a single box of size 6 diapers) to $5,000, with multiple levels in between. Organizers also announced that someone had also made an anonymous donation of $10,000 to the cause, bringing cheers from the crowd. The silent auction and raffle were big hits, too, with organizers announcing the lucky winners as bidding concluded. The emcees for the evening were WestSide Baby board members Amy Biancofiori (with the paddle in the photo below) and Nicole DeCario:

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BIZNOTE: Taste of Mumbai reopens with new ownership

June 6, 2025 1:36 pm

| 15 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle restaurants

(Photo courtesy Taste of Mumbai)

After a month-plus closure initially attributed – via note on the door – to a staffing shortage, Taste of Mumbai has reopened in The Admiral District, under new ownership and management. We got a call today from the restaurant’s new manager, who told us, “Nobody from before is working here now.” Their new hours are 11 am to 11 pm daily, including an 11 am-3 pm lunch buffet (10+ dishes, $22.99). No bar yet but they’re hoping to get their liquor license within a month. They’re keeping the name and improving their online presence. For new owner Vikram Singh, we’re told, this is the first restaurant venture. Under previous ownership, Taste of Mumbai opened in the former Yen Wor Village spot at 2300 California SW a year and a half ago.

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BIZNOTE: CAPERS celebrates 40 years this weekend, and you get the gifts. Owner shares her secret

June 6, 2025 1:18 pm

| 2 COMMENTS

| West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor

For a small independent business to last 40 months is a feat – let alone 40 years.

But that’s the milestone CAPERS in The Junction (WSB sponsor) is celebrating this weekend – the store’s 40th anniversary.

The party Saturday and Sunday coincides with the start of the annual CAPERS “everything in the store” sale. But CAPERS proprietor Lisa Myers has added a few touches – such as a private reunion party tonight for employees past and present. “We’ve probably had 1,000 employees over the years!” Lisa marveled when we talked this morning for a look ahead to the big weekend. Their tenures, anywhere from one month to 25 years. “They really make the business.”

Yes, but so does the proprietor. What’s her secret for keeping the doors open this long? “Just keep going! I think (some businesspeople) give up too soon, didn’t give it enough time. It takes a long time to get a customer!” You can’t assume everyone knows about you, 40 years or not. “People still come in and ask, ‘are you new?'”

Of course CAPERS offers online shopping, too, but it’s the bricks-and-mortar store that offers the full experience of the home items they sell – although the website also opens the door to people too far to walk through the physical door. Somebody thousands of miles away, for example, bought napkin rings. And it’s the mix of merchandise that keeps CAPERS thriving, Lisa believes; furniture might be atop the list of most-popular items, but barely: “All the departments hold their own .. it’s hard to get rid of a department, since they play off each other.”

After 40 years, what surprises her? Sometimes, it’s “the things that people like.” Sometimes, it’s the pleasant surprise of “the kindness of our community … people are so supportive and kind.” (CAPERS finds ways to enable that, too, such as the annual Giving Tree for the Hickman House shelter housing families who have survived domestic violence.)

You can support this independent local business, as it enters year 41, by joining this weekend’s celebration. Between 10 am and 4 pm both Saturday and Sunday, you can not only be among the first to shop the “20 percent off everything” sale, you can also enter raffle drawings for baskets with items from CAPERS vendors – “our vendors have given us so many gifts!” Lisa exclaims. “Some really good stuff.” They’ll have a “Wheel of Fortune”-style game, too, as well as treats for kids. And the sale lasts through the end of the month. CAPERS is at 4525 California SW.

(Photo courtesy West Seattle Junction Association)

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ONE DAY AWAY: Loop the ‘Lupe 2025 tomorrow! (+ packet pickup today)

June 6, 2025 12:06 pm

| 2 COMMENTS

| Fun stuff to do | High Point | West Seattle news

(WSB file photo from Loop the ‘Lupe)

Seattle’s only obstacle-course 5K happens right here in West Seattle, and it’s one of four events comprising tomorrow’s Loop the ‘Lupe (along with the 5K Fun Run, Senior Saunter, and Youth Dash). If you’re already registered, you can pick up your packet 1-6 pm today at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW). If not, you can sign up online right now! The Obstacle Course 5K starts at 11; the Fun Run 5K at noon; the Senior Saunter at 12:15 pm; and the Youth Dash at 1 pm, all at Walt Hundley Playfield (34th/Myrtle), just east of Our Lady of Guadalupe, whose community and social programs benefit from the proceeds. While you’re signing up, if you’re at least 16 years old, you have a new add-on option this year – the first-ever Penalty Kick Soccer Shootout with West Seattle Junction FC and Rhodies FC players.

Walt Hundley will be a fun place to be on Saturday even if you’re not Loop-ing – you can do some volunteer work (sign up here) or just be a spectator! There’s music, food, and beverages too. Plus health care – as previewed here, the Care-a-Van will be on site, offering vaccines and screenings. WSB is media sponsor for Loop the ‘Lupe, and we’ll see you there!

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FOLLOWUP: Wood chips or gravel? And other next steps toward West Seattle’s second official dog park

June 6, 2025 11:13 am

| 5 COMMENTS

| Pets | West Seattle news | West Seattle parks

We went to the site of West Seattle’s future second official dog park (aka off-leash area) toward the end of Thursday’s lightly attended “open house” to get a quick in-person update on what’s next for the project, currently planned for construction next year. (If you’ve missed previous reports, this is in an area south of the West Seattle Stadium parking lot at 4432 35th SW, for which it’s currently used as overflow parking.)

The project team told us this is the last public meeting before construction next summer/fall. The main purpose was to show the “schematic design” they’ve settled on (on the easel shown above, plus page 8 in this slide deck), from the three possibilities they had shown previously. The main changes include an added pathway plus “more developed drainage.” And they still have a few things to decide, such as gravel vs. wood chips; both have their upsides and downsides, fans and detractors.

They also want potential future users to know that an area in the northwest section of the site is still planned for a small lot where city EVs can recharge. No public access, they said. (At one point, you might recall, the entire site was under consideration for a city EV lot INSTEAD of the dog park.)

For one last round of feedback, they now have an online survey you can answer here, and the project webpage features an explanatory video walking you through the current plan. The survey’s open until June 23.

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WEST SEATTLE MUSIC: Student production ‘WWE: The Musical’ becomes a streaming album

June 6, 2025 10:25 am

| 2 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

What was a student-written/directed/produced show at West Seattle High School last year, “WWE: The Musical,” is now a streaming album. One of the show’s creators, now-former WSHS student Roy Keller, explains, “Recently, we recorded the songs from it and are putting it out on streaming this week!” Here’s the announcement, with links:

The wait is finally over… we’re back. The Musical that Stone-cold-stunned the world returns with WWE: THE MUSICAL: The Album Version! Relive the legendary student-led performance and follow John Cena as he fights, sings, and wins his way to the top! he WILL fight, he WILL learn lessons, and he WILL call his mother.

WWE: THE MUSICAL The Album Version is out NOW on all streaming platforms! including but not limited to:
–Spotify open.spotify.com/album/6Mf6O0lxhOMMzXWJGaEmSy?si=pgl-H34kReq1L4VcZ8V8uA
–Apple Music https://music.apple.com/us/artist/wwe-the-musical/1817627445
–Amazon Music music.amazon.com/albums/B0FBCLCB9Q?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_jleTXNcuvUiL3EKSwkgSkplY8
–YouTube Music music.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_mW9ulmdpI3Ci85yyQBAwKh2Px3pQZPBSw&si=kDEH_VTBDe5TN5R4
and anywhere else you can find music!

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Food and art openings, HPIC and VFW First Fridays, Pride events, much more for your West Seattle Friday

June 6, 2025 9:57 am

| 0 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news

(Photo by Stewart L., fleeting fog on Thursday)

Time for our Friday highlights list, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

FOOD DRIVE: As previewed here last night, PCC West Seattle (2749 California SW) is hosting a food drive for the West Seattle Food Bank today through next Friday. The store’s open until 11 pm.

STAY ‘N’ PLAY: 10 am-11:30 am – open gym for little kids is back at Arbor Heights Community Church (4113 SW 102nd).

SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: The center (a WSB sponsor) is open for plant-shopping Thursdays-Saturdays 10 am-3 pm, north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW) campus.

QI GONG AT VIVA ARTS: Fridays at 12:15 pm – info in our calendar listing. (4421 Fauntleroy Way SW)

BECOME A ‘DEMENTIA FRIEND’: Free informational session at The Kenney (7125 Fauntleroy Way SW), 1 pm.

JAK’S GRILL OPENING NIGHT: 4 pm, official opening night for new location. (4209 SW Alaska)

‘FEATHER IN THE WIND’ ART POP-UP OPENING NIGHT: 5-7 pm opening reception for “5 participating artists creating a one-of-a-kind shopping experience in the upstairs annex of Alki Arts (6030 California SW).”

VETERANS’ APPRECIATION NIGHT: 5-9 pm at West Seattle VFW Hall (3602 SW Alaska). Free event with refreshments, all welcome.

YOUTH MINI-PRIDE PARADE: Co-hosted by Community School of West Seattle. Gather at Future Primitive in White Center (9832 14th SW) at 5 pm, parade through downtown WC, return to Future Primitive for treats.

FIRST FRIDAY AT HPIC: No building? No problem! Highland Park Improvement Club is hosting another First Friday celebration at 12th/Holden:

– Nepantla, artist mercado, and watercoloring!
– Kraken hot dogs
– Corn hole and other outdoor games
– Face painting
– Music, merch (!), and more!

Time: 5:30 – 8:30 pm

Family-friendly – just show up!

COFFEEHOUSE OPEN MIC: 6-8 pm, open mic for all genres at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), 6-8 pm. All ages, no cover.

LIVE AT THE SKYLARK: Smells Like Queer Spirit: A PNW Queer Showcase, 5 pm at The Skylark, $10 suggested donation. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

LIVE AT KENYON HALL: 7 pm doors, 7:30 pm show with Sawyer Best and The Hall’s own Mighty Wurlitzer. Get tickets here. (7904 35th SW)

REVELRY ROOM DJ: 9 pm, DJ Nate Thousand tonight! (4547 California SW)

MAKE IT LOUD: Skating to live music at Southgate Roller Rink (9646 17th SW), doors at 9 pm, $18 cover, $5 skates, 21+. Tonight: Hot Hail, Wisteria Lodge.

If you have something to showcase on our event lists or calendar, please email what/when/where/etc. info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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Remembering Tara E. DeGraff, 1973-2025

June 6, 2025 8:45 am

| 4 COMMENTS

| Obituaries | West Seattle news

Family and friends are remembering Tara DeGraff and sharing this remembrance with the community:

Tara Elaine DeGraff
January 20, 1973 — May 23, 2025

We are deeply saddened to report that our daughter Tara passed away unexpectedly at her home in West Seattle on May 23, 2025.

In her 52 years, she lived a life full of adventure, curiosity, and compassion. From managing Rock Climbing gyms and teaching students, to studying wooden boat construction at the NW School of Wooden Boat Building in Port Townsend and to falling in love with the study of cheese so she could become a certified cheese monger. These last years, she was teaching herself Swedish and the Greek languages as these were two countries she visited and loved.

When she was very young, she left a note for her mom that read “dearest mommy, I’m out in the woods playing with my work.” And that was how she viewed the world; always a serious person who wanted to have joy in everything she did. She loved everything in the natural world and her happiest times were in the woods and beaches of the Northwest spending time with her family and friends.

When Death Comes by Mary Oliver (excerpt)

When its over, I want to say: all my life
I was a bride to amazement.
I was the bridegroom, taking the world into my arms.
When it’s over, I don’t want to wonder
If I have made of my life something particular, and real.
I don’t want to find myself sighing and frightened,
or full of argument.
I don’t want to end up simply having visited this world.

Tara did not just visit this world; she engaged with all her heart. A special thank you to those in her life that always showed up for her with love and understanding. Our family will be forever grateful.

Tara is survived by her mother Victoria Nelson and stepfather John McNulty, and an extended family of aunts, uncles and cousins. A private family gathering will be held at a later date.

Share memories & photos at: emmickfunerals.com/obituaries/tara-degraff

– Care Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home of West Seattle –

(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)

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TRAFFIC, WEATHER, ROAD WORK, TRANSIT: Friday + weekend, with low-bridge and 99 tunnel closures

June 6, 2025 6:01 am

| 4 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:01 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Friday, June 6, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Sunny, high in the mid-70s. Today’s sunrise was at 5:12 am; sunset will be at 9:03 pm.

(Reader photo, Thursday at Alki)

CLOSURES, ROAD WORK

As announced last week (and reconfirmed this week) – the West Seattle low bridge will close this weekend, starting 7 am tomorrow (Saturday).

-Highway 99 tunnel maintenance closure, 10 pm tonight to 6 am Saturday morning.

-The Admiral Way Bridge lanes will change again this weekend, says SDOT.

-16th SW from Roxbury to 100th will close all day and night Saturday for the White Center Pride Street Festival.

TRANSIT TODAY

Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle service; spring/summer schedule, with later runs on Friday and Saturday nights, plus a new addition – late-night service for weeknights with Mariners’ home games (and a few other events). More info here.

Metro buses – Regular schedule.

Washington State Ferries – Regular service on the Triangle Route, with M/V Kittitas and M/V Cathlamet. M/V Salish serves as the “bonus boat”. Note: Online “open house” for commenting on possible ferry-fare increases/changes is continues here.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

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

Spokane Street Viaduct:

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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Grocery strike? Union says local workers voted to reject contract

June 6, 2025 12:48 am

| 7 COMMENTS

| West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

The union for grocery-store workers in the region, UFCW 3000, just sent early-early-morning word that thousands of its members – primarily working for Kroger and Albertsons stores – have voted to reject the latest contract offer and authorize a strike. That doesn’t mean they’re definitely striking; the union announcement says that this follows five months of contract talks, and that “Another round of negotiations is scheduled for June 12 and 13. The contract extension agreement can be unilaterally terminated with a 72-hour notice, and a strike could not begin until after the 72-hour notice has run out.” In West Seattle, this involves three Safeway (part of Albertsons) stores and two QFC (part of Kroger) stores; Saar’s, which has a White Center grocery store, is part of this too. It’s been six months since the plan for Kroger and Albertsons to merge was canceled. UFCW 3000 says you can look at the latest contract proposals on its website.

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YOU CAN HELP: West Seattle Food Bank launches donation drive Friday at PCC

June 5, 2025 9:18 pm

| 0 COMMENTS

| How to help | West Seattle news

Starting tomorrow, PCC (WSB sponsor) is hosting a weeklong donation drive for the West Seattle Food Bank.

WSFB’s Robbin Peterson adds, “We will also be there this weekend taking donations and selling Summer Raffle Tickets!” (Here’s the raffle announcement from two weeks ago.) If you can donate food, here’s the short wish list from WSFB:

Ready-to-eat meals like canned pasta
Meals in a box – mac and cheese, hamburger helper
Canned protein – fish, chicken
Peanut butter
Cereal

PCC is at 2749 California SW; store hours are 6 am to 11 pm, every day of the week.

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BIZNOTE: Why you’ll get West Seattle Autoworks if you try reaching West Seattle Brake Service

June 5, 2025 8:17 pm

| 5 COMMENTS

| West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

A longtime local business that recently closed hasn’t entirely gone away. West Seattle Brake Service has closed in The Triangle after 85 years, ending an amazing run for a local family, after proprietor John Thompson retired. But it’s living on in another way, as another family in the automotive business – West Seattle Autoworks (WSB sponsors) – is announcing:

West Seattle Brake Service, located at 4464 37th Ave SW, is now under the ownership of West Seattle Autoworks, located at 7501 35th Ave SW. When customers call the business number of West Seattle Brake Service (206-935-4350) they will be routed to West Seattle Autoworks, with the option of scheduling with us at our location. We were honored to be asked to continue serving their customer base and hope to obtain some memorabilia from West Seattle Brake Service, which has served West Seattle since 1940!

West Seattle Autoworks is at 35th/Webster and will celebrate its 15th anniversary later this year.

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VIDEO: South Seattle College’s first mural, more than ‘wall decoration’

June 5, 2025 5:09 pm

| 5 COMMENTS

| Puget Ridge | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools | WS culture/arts

By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor

The breezeway of South Seattle College‘s central Robert Smith Building used to be a blank, bleak passageway through a space framed by unadorned concrete.

Not any more.

Now the college’s first mural “We Carry the Light, We Carry the Sky” graces the walls on both sides, even wrapping around the corners beyond. The mural painted by more than 100 students, staff, and community members was at the heart of a noontime celebration today. It was described as more than a “wall decoration … a radical reimagining” of the hopes and dreams of all who comprise the college’s community.

SSC’s dean of arts, humanities and social sciences Dr. Eileen Jimenez emceed the courtyard event, introducing Seattle Colleges tribal liaison Willard Bill Jr. of the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe for a welcome with drumming and singing:

Muralist Toka Valu told the two stories depicted by the mural – one about the coyote carrying fire, the other about collaborating to lift the sky:

Scott Mexcal, SSC art faculty and instructor for the mural class, described the mural as a “seed” that grew “a lot bigger than ever dreamed.” It depicts “what makes us, us,” he observed, “a community in which 80 primary languages are spoken.”

He also called it something befitting “the gateway for the larger community into the intimacy of our learning community.” And so it received a grand unveiling – curtains of gold tinsel draped over it, removed to reveal the panels:

You can see the mural any time by visiting the campus; it’s steps away from the SSC ballot box, among other landmarks. And if you want to support the creation of more murals – this one is envisioned as the first of seven – you can help with a fundraiser by donating here.

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FOLLOWUP: Councilmember Saka says he’s against adding 150 parking spaces on Alki Avenue

June 5, 2025 2:54 pm

| 51 COMMENTS

| Transportation | West Seattle news

(WSB photos, Monday)

2:54 PM: As noted in our most-recent followups on parking changes ahead for Alki Avenue, SDOT not only reiterated the previously announced plan to convert the diagonal spaces on Duwamish Head to parallel, but introduced something new: Adding 150 parallel-parking spaces to the water side of Alki Avenue’s 1200 to 1700 blocks. The accompanying “fact sheet” said changes were being made “at the request of Councilmember Rob Saka”

And in a response to one of our followup questions, SDOT very clearly attributed the street changes to him:

(WSB question) 2. What other “engagement” is planned besides the survey and signage? Will there be a community meeting, for example?

(SDOT response, as previously published) We appreciate the community’s interest and input regarding Councilmember Rob Saka’s request to re-establish on-street parking on the waterside of Alki Avenue SW to offset some loss of parking at the Duwamish Head. We believe the current survey provides one effective way of gathering feedback from a diverse range of voices. To ensure adjacent stakeholders are aware, we are also putting up A-frame signs within the area and sending emails to community leaders. …

But in an email newsletter today, Councilmember Saka says he’s AGAINST the 150-space plan. Here’s the entirety of what he wrote:

Alki Parking Changes: I support Duwamish Head changes, but I oppose 150+ new spaces

I want to clarify my position regarding SDOT’s recently announced proposed parking changes at Alki, that was attributed to work being done by my office.

For background: During last year’s Council budget review, I supported converting diagonal to parallel parking at Duwamish Head in response to ongoing community concerns about nightly street racing and loud gatherings that have disturbed neighbors year-round. The Council appropriated $175,000 for this change. I strongly support this first aspect of the project pertaining to Duwamish Head reconfiguration only.

However, this week’s SDOT’s announcement referenced an additional out-of-scope project to add 150 new parking spaces along the waterside of Alki Avenue—which apparently was a revival of an unpopular proposal from 15+ years ago—and indicated my support for it.

To be clear: I unequivocally DO NOT support this proposal to install 150 new parking spots and I sincerely regret this confusion.

I had a productive meeting with SDOT this week where I reaffirmed my support for the Duwamish Head changes. I also expressed strong opposition to the second phase of the project to add 150 new spaces. We ultimately aligned on a shared goal of moving forward with mutual understandings and to ensure full transparency and tighter coordination in the future. I appreciate the department’s collaboration here, along with their efforts to bring to life my original intent of reconfiguring Duwamish Head parking only.

For further questions on the project details, please contact SDOT Customer Care at 206-684-ROAD (7623) or email 684-ROAD@Seattle.gov.

So – does this mean the 150 spaces are dead? Since the “productive meeting” paragraph doesn’t clearly say one way or another, we have requests out to both SDOT and Councilmember Saka (via the council communications office) asking for clarification.

4:17 PM: Here’s the reply from council spokesperson Brad Harwood:

He did not make the request, that’s the issue and the purpose for the newsletter blurb. SDOT’s announcement connecting him with the Alki spaces was in error. Internal discussions are occurring now with SDOT leadership on next steps. As for news of any cancellation, the department will make that announcement.

4:47 PM: And here’s SDOT’s response to us:

Phase 2 status is currently under review. Staff will review the input from the survey before deciding on the next steps for the project. This ensures community feedback is considered as the process moves forward. In the meantime, we intend to move forward on the conversion of the Duwamish Head angled parking spaces to parallel parking.

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King County Executive proposes sales-tax increase to help hold off criminal-justice cuts

June 5, 2025 1:12 pm

| 22 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

King County Executive Shannon Braddock is proposing a sales-tax increase that she says could keep the county from having to cut criminal-justice services, though the exact plan for how the money would be spent is yet to come. Here’s the announcement:

Today, King County Executive Shannon Braddock sent a proposal to the King County Council that would establish a new revenue measure to support public safety and criminal justice work.

The new proposal, if approved by the Council, would enact a 0.1% sales and use tax, authorized by state legislators and signed into law by Governor Bob Ferguson last month. The sales tax is forecasted to generate $95 million a year. Since nearly 75% of the General Fund is dedicated to public safety and the criminal legal system, the measure would generate sufficient funding to offset the County’s previously projected $150 million biennial General Fund deficit, avoiding deep cuts to essential services and programs.

“This new revenue tool will allow King County to continue to advance community health and public safety. I hope that the legislature continues the conversation on how we can make our tax system less regressive and better support our local governments that deliver so many of the important services our communities rely on,” said Executive Braddock. “With approval of this proposal, we can craft a responsible budget that invests in people while preventing deep cuts, and I would like to thank Councilmembers Zahilay and Dembowski for their commitment to working together and quickly charting a path forward for this critical measure.”

“Without urgent action to stabilize our general fund, real people will suffer. In unincorporated King County, police service will be reduced or delayed during the moments people need help the most. More people in crisis will remain on the streets or end up in jail without access to the mental health and addiction care they need. Victims of crime will wait even longer for their day in court. Public defenders will face even more crushing caseloads,” said King County Council Chair Girmay Zahilay. “A sales tax isn’t what I’d choose to fix these issues in an ideal world—it’s a regressive tool. But it’s the only option we have to avoid devastating cuts to our public safety services. That’s why I’ll support this proposal and work with communities across King County to shape it and protect the services we all rely on to survive.”

“King County’s public safety, public health and other general fund programs are in very serious trouble. Without new revenue, we face at least $150 million in cuts over the next two years,” said King County Council Budget Chair Rod Dembowski. “That is why Council Chair Zahilay and I advocated for and now fully support Executive Braddock’s proposal to implement the authority provided to us by the state legislature to prevent these cuts. For the cost of ten cents on a $100 taxable purchase, we can and will keep our sheriff’s office, prosecutor’s office, our courts, victim advocacy services, and prevention and diversion programs adequately resourced. This program will also give needed support to our public health and human services programs. We will move this proposal forward without delay.”

As part of her 200-Day plan, Executive Braddock will convene a public safety roundtable at the end of July, bringing together elected representatives from King County, community perspectives, law enforcement, and other partners in the criminal legal system.

The roundtable discussion, alongside community engagement, will ensure a collaborative process to help inform strategic investment opportunities to address public safety and legal system issues the County is facing. This could also include recommendations to expand or adjust diversion and reentry programs, programs to reduce the number of people interacting with the criminal legal system, community outreach and assistance programs, alternative mental health crisis response programs, or initiatives addressing gun violence.

The allocation of the funding will be proposed in Executive Braddock’s 2026-2027 budget, which will be sent to the Council for consideration in September.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: North Delridge shootout followup; mail theft; dumped-likely-stolen bicycle

June 5, 2025 11:47 am

| 11 COMMENTS

| Crime | Found bicycles | West Seattle news

Three items in West Seattle Crime Watch:

NORTH DELRIDGE SHOOTOUT FOLLOWUP: Seattle Police have released more information in the SW Dakota shootout we covered on Tuesday morning.

… On June 3, at about 11:30 a.m., patrol officers responded to reports of gunfire near the 4100 block of 25th Avenue Southwest. Police located multiple shell casings in the area.

While investigating, officers reviewed video of a suspect running from the area. Officers believe the 23-year-old suspect hid in a nearby apartment. He was found and arrested for investigation of Assault.

Officers also located a black Audi sedan believed to be involved in the shooting.

Police obtained a warrant to search the Audi, where they recovered a handgun with ballistic-tipped ammunition.

Another suspect, associated with the Audi and believed to be connected with the drive-by shooting, was not located.

This continues to be an ongoing investigation by the Gun Violence Reduction Unit. Anyone with information is asked to call the SPD Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000. Anonymous tips are accepted.

The incident # is 25-151391. We just checked, and confirmed the 23-year-old man who was arrested remains in King County Jail, in lieu of $50,000 bail.

MAIL THEFT: Emailed this morning by an Alki resident:

This morning about 10:10 am two males were stealing postal mail from our mailboxes located (in the 2700 block of) 60th Avenue SW.

I tried to stop them and grab their attention but they split up and walked away and one running away and the other jumping into a vehicle – white and black, old I think RAV-4.

I think neighbors need to know this. The police have been notified and I’m going to share the photos of them and the car.

DUMPED-LIKELY-STOLEN BICYCLE: Sent by Malia:

I found a bluish gray adult bike in my front yard this morning. I’m assuming it was stolen and dumped. I live off of 44th and Holgate.

If it’s yours, email us and we’ll connect you.

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West Seattle Book Club, SSC mural celebration, dog-park design Q&A, more for your Thursday

June 5, 2025 10:08 am

| 0 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

Here are our Thursday highlights, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

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

MEDICARE INFORMATION: 11 am presentation at Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon).

COFFEE WITH A COP: If you’re on the unincorporated side of the line, King County Sheriff’s Deputies are your police, and they’re scheduled to be at White Center Starbucks (16th SW/SW 100th) for an 11 am-1 pm meet-and-greet.

SSC MURAL CELEBRATION: All are welcome to South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) Robert B. Smith Building Courtyard noon-2 pm for refreshments, music, and a chance to see SSC’s first mural, “We Carry the Light, We Carry the Sky.” Details here. (6000 16th SW)

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

DOG PARK INFO SESSION: As previewed here, you can stop by the site of West Seattle’s future second official off-leash area 4-6 pm to see the schematic design, ask questions, and offer comments. (4432 35th SW)

DROP-IN CHESS: 4-5:30 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), youth up to 18 years old are invited to drop in and play.

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

WINE TASTING WITH CLARK: Another regular Thursday event at HPCS, 5-7:30 pm – info here.

HIGHLAND PARK RUN CLUB: Last but never least, HPCS is the starting point 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, returning for beverages – 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 it’s a West Seattle Book Club venue tonight, too (see listing below).

SUMMIT ATLAS GRADUATION: Congratulations to the Class of 2025. Their ceremony starts at 6 pm at South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) venue Brockey Center. Ticketed event, so this is just a reminder for those already set to go. (6000 16th SW)

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

WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Prefer to walk? Meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fauntleroy for tonight’s group walk – details in our calendar listing.

A NIGHT OUT WITH WESTSIDE BABY: Annual fundraiser to help provide necessities for local families in need, 6 pm; ticket link is in our calendar listing. (10002 14th SW)

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

DUSTY THURSDAYS: 6 pm at Tim’s Tavern (98th/16th, White Center). From West Seattle’s own Billy Joe Huels:

Dusty Thursdays concert series is returning at Tim’s Tavern 6-9 pm on the outdoor stage. Each week we will feature a top local band (most hailing from West Seattle) followed by The Dusty 45s. It’s free, all-ages and everyone is welcome!

Featured tonight – The Everlovers.

(Photo courtesy Sad Dad Autumn)

SISTERS’ SHOWCASE: Three West Seattle sisters comprise the band Sad Dad Autumn, and they’re performing at The Good Society 6:30 to 7 pm tonight! Details in our calendar listing

WEST SEATTLE BOOK CLUB: Starting at 7 pm, it’s the monthly night when you bring the book to your choice of venue and read, then chat (or not)! Our calendar listing includes this month’s venues.

NORTH HIGHLINE UNINCORPORATED AREA COUNCIL: The community coalition for White Center and vicinity meets at 7 pm at the North Highline Fire Station (1243 SW 112th).

JOKES AT THE JUNCTION: 8 pm comedy show at Great American Diner & Bar (4752 California SW) – our calendar listing includes the ticket link.

DJ NIGHT: The weekend starts spinning early at Revelry Room (4547 California SW), with DJ Tomas, 8:30 pm.

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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VIDEO: West Seattle Elementary saying goodbye to principal Pamela McCowan-Conyers after 16 years

June 5, 2025 9:05 am

| 5 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

Just under two weeks of classes remain for Seattle Public Schools. But the goodbyes have already begun. For some, it’ll be just for the summer. Others won’t be back in fall – retiring faculty, for example.

West Seattle Elementary School staff gathered after school Wednesday afternoon to celebrate retiring co-workers. At the top of the list: Award-winning longtime principal Pamela McCowan-Conyers, retiring after 16 years at the school in High Point.

After a gathering in the library at which McCowan-Conyers and other retiring staffers were presented with crowns and sashes reading “OFFICIALLY RETIRED,” as well as gift bags, everyone headed downstairs for an extra surprise for the principal:

The plaque on the lobby wall was placed without her catching on, and will remain as a tribute to her years there. Assistant principal Ritchie Garcia will succeed her as interim principal next school year. His words of appreciation for her included that she “just cares straight up for people.” She also was celebrated for recognizing employees’ talents and knowing where to place them to maximize growth, and for her role in successes such as WSES’s multiple honors as a School of Distinction. She also was honored with a Thomas B. Foster Award for Excellence two years ago.

Former WSES staffers who returned to help celebrate McCowan-Conyers’ retirement included her predecessor as principal, Vicki Sacco, who departed in 2016, leading to McCowan-Conyers’ promotion. In the style of what staff called “Pam-ism” sayings, she said, “You have served your community, served your school, now it’s time to put a period on it.”

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