West Seattle, Washington
30 Saturday
6:16 PM: We’re out right now on the West Seattle Art Walk – tonight, featuring the new business that a longtime Junction fashion entrepreneur is opening:
That’s Linda Walsh, who – as we reported here – proprietor of Carmilia’s, and now also taking over the 4536 California SW space a few doors down where Willow recently closed. Tonight she’s introducing her new shop, Oona:
As the sign says, Oona is open for a “dress rehearsal” tonight and also tomorrow during the West Seattle Junction Wine Walk tomorrow night; then regular hours start next week.
(Added: From tonight’s pop-up shop at Oona, by textile designer Hemloya)
The name, which Walsh attributes to Irish/Celtic mythology, was inspired by a friend. … More from the Art Walk shortly!
6:30 PM: Above, that’s Kay the Paint Lady, at Jet City Labs (4547 California SW) tonight, leading free guided painting with Art Walk visitors:
6:52 PM: Toward the north end of tonight’s Art Walk map, Dan Jacobs is showing photos at West Seattle Grounds (2141 California SW):
Many of the photos were taken during a trip to Italy last year. We visited WSG early on tonight; ceramic artist Lora Radford was scheduled to join him a bit later. … Toward the south end of tonight’s Art Walk, we stopped by Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor), showing work by Lea Basile-Lazarus:
7:20 PM: Even further south, you’ll find art at West Seattle Cellars (6016 California SW):
Jesse Holt created these pieces with keyboard keycaps, and he says they often have secret messages buried within them, to make them very multilayered:
More artists are featured in this month’s lineup preview on the Art Walk website.
The Sound Transit Board‘s Executive Committee didn’t vote this afternoon on an ST revision after all, but the push is still on for a full board vote two weeks from today. The board’s chair, Snohomish County executive Dave Somers, said a vote wouldn’t be appropriate because too many amendments had either been, or were expected to be, proposed.
This afternoon’s discussion did shine more light on issues brought up by board members at their regular monthly meeting last week. For example – why are they updating the plan now? ST’s Alex Krieg said the ST3 plan approved by voters in 2016 required a plan update when the plan is out of alignment with the available funding, and they’ve certainly arrived at that point. They can afford $57 billion worth of projects, both fully and partly funded, and West Seattle light rail – currently priced, even without the Avalon station, at $6.8 billion – would be on the fully funded list. But unless they adopted a complete new plan, they wouldn’t be allowed to spend all the money they’d need to spend to get West Seattle on the track to completion.
Krieg insisted that the proposed revision doesn’t cancel or eliminate anything, and there’s still room and time to add things back – like the Ballard Link Extension, for example, with a price tag of $7 billion to $9 billion for the segment from Seattle Center to Market Street, which is left hanging in the proposed revision. Though he’s not on the Executive Committee, board member Dan Strauss – who represents Ballard on the City Council – was there to say he won’t settle for that. And Mayor Katie Wilson, a board member who is on the committee, said she wanted to at least see a date for when they envisioned completing Ballard in this revision. (Theoretically West Seattle, “fully funded,” is still on track for 2032 completion, although board chair Somers took issue at one point with the frequent usage of “shovel-ready” to describe it, saying “major construction” actually wouldn’t start until 2028.)
One date of note: CFO Hughey Newsom noted that the revision would extend the end date of ST3 financing from 2046 to 2052.
And he pointed out that the revised plan would totally max out their expected financing – not counting a 10 percent so any change in costs, for example, could throw it “out of alignment” again and require yet another revision.
In board comments, committee member Ryan Mello, Pierce County Executive, declared the board needs to take action – “delay will only add cost and risk and is not our friend.”
King County Executive Girmay Zahilay, also a committee member, said he supports a vote at the May 28 board meeting too.
Along the way, Somers pointed out that even a vote on this ST3 revision is not a final commitment to West Seattle or any other project – those would be separate votes. So here’s what happens next:
Back before construction began on the Alki Elementary rebuild, much discussion – and even an appeal – centered on transportation and traffic issues. Now the new school is a few months from opening, and its traffic management plan is an agenda item for tomorrow morning’s monthly meeting of the Seattle School Traffic Safety Committee, a city-convened advisory committee. Its meeting is set for 8:30-10:30 am tomorrow (Friday, May 15), online and in person at City Hall, and the Alki traffic-management plan is on the agenda for ~10 am. The public is welcome at the meeting – room 370 at City Hall (600 4th Avenue) or online (find the link here). Other discussion items on the agenda include school-zone speeding and idling alongside schools.
The “no parking” signs are up for this year’s West Seattle 5K, now just three days away, 9:30 am Sunday (May 17) along Alki, starting and finishing at 61st SW. Alki and Harbor Avenues will be closed for a few hours as the runners, walkers, and rollers take over the waterfront streets (the closure usually runs approximately 8-11 am). Not only is it a chance to enjoy the scenery as you run/walk/roll with more than a thousand of your neighbors, it’s also a financial boost for the West Seattle High School PTSA‘s support of programs for students – that’s why they’ve been coordinating the West Seattle 5K for more than a decade and a half! Still time to register online – you can do that here right now.
P.S. WSB is among the WS5K’s community co-sponsors again this year – every year since the start! – see all this year’s co-sponsors here.
Get stronger in time for summer! Longtime WSB sponsor Fitness Together West Seattle in The Junction is offering a discount on this personal-training program:
Fitness Together West Seattle
6-Week Women’s Strength Program (1:1 Personal Training)Get 12 private 1:1 sessions in 6 weeks — a clear plan, expert coaching, and accountability so you actually follow through.
$972 (save $200) includes:
-12 sessions with a certified personal trainer in a private suite
-Fitness Assessment
-2 x Body Composition Scan
-Personalized program
-Weekly women’s fitness and health education topics
-Journal to track learning and progressLimited promo spots. Click here now to claim yours.
Fitness Together West Seattle is upstairs at 4546 California SW in the heart of The Junction.
Big smiles last night for Matt Vaughan and Kisha Vaughan as they showed off the big award Easy Street Records just won, honored at the Music Business Association‘s Bizzy Awards in Atlanta as Independent Retailer of the Year. Here’s what the award honors, according to the association’s website:
(The award is f)or a retail store who showed exceptional inventiveness and ingenuity in their practices during the past year in their interactions with consumers.
Matt Vaughan opened Easy Street in 1988, so its 40th anniversary is in sight! It’s not “just” a record store, but also hosts live, free in-store concerts – some of which have been turned into records! – as well as signings, listening parties, readings, and art exhibits – plus it’s home to a café and bar – all anchoring the heart of The Junction in the city-landmark Hamm Building on the northwest corner of California and Alaska. We asked Matt for comment on the award; his reply – “Not possible without all of you lovely people in West Seattle. We love breaking bands from all over the world, all genres of music, new and used; all while supporting our favorite labels, distros, pressing plants, graphic designers, engineers, photographers, journalists, radio stations, venues, and the musicians that make it all possible.”
ADDED THURSDAY NIGHT: We asked the Music Business Association for a bit more information on Easy Street’s honor. For one, they sent us more photos from the ceremony, including this one of Kisha’s jubilation while Matt speaks:
(Photo by Picture This! Photography)
We asked about some of the testimonials/comments that helped judges decide Easy Street should win. They sent some examples, such as:
Easy Street Records in Seattle is always on the front lines for our bands. A true partner to labels and distributors. I’ve had the pleasure of partnering with them on projects for over 20 years and their support is always there no matter what.
And this one:
Matt Vaughan and his team have made a real deal community center out of their store and cafe, and stepped it up even more in the last 5-6 years. They made a point to serve their customers during lockdown, bringing smiles to people when they needed it most. All retail had to change their ways during lockdown and think of creative ways to connect with their customers, but Easy Street went above and beyond with the most brilliant of ideas. Instead of hiding away during lockdown, Easy Street literally got out there on the streets! Matt would hand-deliver packages with his son in their Easy Street van. … They are one of the most well-respected stores in the country, and it’s time they awarded by the music industry…BIG TIME :)
One more:
Easy Street Records represents the culture of Seattle. It’s very difficult in this day and age to go to a city that has unique stores that define and represent their city. Easy Street not only is a giant sponge and encyclopedia of Seattle, it represents the past, present and future of the music industry. The store itself is amazing, but the restaurant, coffee bar and bar take it up a notch. It’s a one stop shopping experience! The staff are masters of their craft and you can tell all were hired with intent.
To be in Easy Street makes one feel as though they are a part of something special, the staff, the in-stores, the music playing overhead, the smell of coffee, the delicious food and amazing drinks make me yearn for one in LA, where I live. It is literally one of my most favorite places to visit in the world!
The Music Business Association sent a few others too in response to our request, but from those three, you get the idea.
Leading our list of what’s happening today/tonight: It’s the second Thursday of the month, so it’s West Seattle Art Walk night! Here’s the venue lineup:
To see who’s hosting artist receptions tonight, check out the preview here. Most are 5 pm to 8 pm, but take note that many venues keep their featured art up all month long, so if you can’t go out tonight, you can still see local art other days/nights!
Here are the rest of our highlights for today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you’ll find even more – thanks to everyone who sends events for us to share!):
FREE PLAYSPACE: Church of the Nazarene‘s free drop-in space is open until noon. (42nd SW and SW Juneau)
THURSDAY KAYAK CLUB: 10 am with Alki Kayak Tours at Seacrest (1660 Harbor SW) – details here if you want to set a reminder to join up next week!
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: Whether you’re planting or planning – the center is open Thursdays-Saturdays 10 am-3 pm – north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus.
PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: 10:30 am at West Seattle (Admiral) Library (2306 42nd SW).
TODDLER STORY TIME: 10:30 am at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW).
SOUND TRANSIT BOARD EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: As previewed here, this committee has a special meeting to consider ST3’s future, including West Seattle light rail. Our preview includes the agenda link, which has viewing/attending/commenting info.
WEST SEATTLE UKULELE PLAYERS: From newbie to pro, all levels welcome at this weekly 1 pm gathering. Email westseattleukuleleplayerswsup@gmail.com to see where they’re playing today. (Even if you just want to know so you can go listen!) Often C & P Coffee, we’re told (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor)
DROP-IN CHESS: For young players, 4 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).
HPCS FOOD-TRUCK VISIT: First of two Thursday night events at HPCS this week – every Thursday, 4-8 pm, Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) gets a food-truck visit. Tonight it’s Momo’s Kebab.
WINE TASTING WITH CLARK: Another regular Thursday event at HPCS, 5-7:30 pm – info here.
HELP HARVEST FOOD: Puget Ridge Edible Park (18th/Brandon) needs volunteers to help harvest fresh food that will be donated to food banks (and you can take some home too). Just be there 5-7 pm!
WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Open 5-8 pm for your tool-borrowing needs. (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center)
VISCON CELLARS: This West Seattle winery’s friendly tasting room/wine bar is open Thursdays, 5-9 pm (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor), for wine by the glass or bottle! It’s an Art Walk stop tonight, too.
BIRDS AND BEER: The Falconer is at Ounces (3809 Delridge Way SW) 5:30-7:30 pm – get an up-close look at amazing birds.
WORDS, WRITERS, SOUTHWEST STORIES: Dr. Charles Weller talks about slavery in this month’s online 6 pm presentation – our calendar listing explains how to get the link.
POKEMON LEAGUE: 6 pm Thursdays at Fourth Emerald Games (4517 California SW, upstairs) – bring your own console.
WESTIES RUN CLUB: 6 pm, starting from Good Society (California SW and SW Lander), you’re welcome to join the Westies Run Club‘s Thursday night community run!
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Or – you can walk! Meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fontanelle for tonight’s group walk – details in our calendar listing.
DUSTY THURSDAYS AT TIM’S: 6-9 pm, The Dusty 45s preceded by Tropical Itch, outdoors, all ages, no cover, donations accepted for the musicians. (16th SW and SW 98th, White Center)
HIGH-SCHOOL SPORTS: From the Metro League schedule for today – postseason baseball game for Chief Sealth International High School plays for the district championship, 7 pm vs. Lindbergh at Steve Cox Memorial Park in White Center.
TRIVIA AT ADMIRAL PUB: 7:10 pm at Admiral Pub (2306 California SW).
‘EARTH MOTHER’ SPRING CONCERT: 7:30 pm at Alki UCC (6115 SW Hinds), featuring the church’s choir “and friends.”
TRIVIA AT THE VOID: One of the newest West Seattle trivia nights! 7:30 pm, with prizes, at The Void (5048 California SW).
AT REVELRY ROOM: Tonight’s musical event at Revelry Room (4547 California SW) features Supreme La Rock starting at 8 pm. 21+.
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!
Family and friends will gather privately next month to celebrate the life of Vernon D. Johnson and are sharing this remembrance with the community now:
On a very cold and snowy New Year’s Eve night in 1949, Vernon Dale Johnson was born to Stanley and Georgia (Huntley). Seattle experienced a very frigid winter after his birth; Vern said he “sucked the energy out of the universe” when he was born. Vern’s childhood was filled with scooters, model cars, train sets, motorized go-cart (built by his dad), archery, and trips to Minnesota. His high school years were spent washing dishes at Beach Broiler, cruising in his favorite 1968 silver Dodge Charger, and helping at his dad’s auto shop, Stan’s Service. His indulgent parents and idyllic childhood gave him a reputation for having the “Spoiled Johnson Gene,” which was passed down to his children and grandchildren.
Vern attended E.C. Hughes Elementary, Denny Jr. High, Chief Sealth High (1968) and the UW School of Construction (1972). The “lights were out in Seattle” when Vern graduated college. He spent two years in Albuquerque, NM and Denver, CO honing his construction and engineering skills. He then returned home in 1974 and started a 10-yr career as a structural and rotating equipment engineer with Howard S. Wright Construction working on the Alaska Northern Pipeline. During that time, he married his high school sweetheart Virgie Lowder. Their union gave them the joy of two children of whom he has always been immensely proud. Vern then built his own construction business focusing on new home and apartment construction. With a charismatic personality, honesty, integrity, and a strong work ethic he became very well-known and respected in the trade and in the community. In 1992 Vern and Rebecca began a 34-year romance. They were often found cruising in Vern’s 1998 Chevy pickup, Rebecca in the middle of the bench seat with his arm around her. There they spent decades sharing their secrets and building a lasting love.
The energy was again “sucked out” when he passed 03-22-2026. Vernon will be deeply missed by soul mate Rebecca, sister Lita (Albert), daughter Cami (Todd), son Clayton (Amanda), grandchildren GeorgiaLee (Payton), Michael (Hannah), Rosalee, Adalind, Stanley, great-granddaughter ParkerKay, new great-grand coming this summer, and many cousins and friends.
Rest in peace sweet Viking, till we all meet again.
(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)
6:04 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Thursday, May 14, 2026.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
Some sun, some clouds, chance of rain, high in the low 60s. Sunrise was at 5:32 am; sunset will be at 8:39 pm.
(Photo by Steve Heck, Wednesday sunset)
CLOSURE ALERTS
–WSDOT says the northbound 1st Avenue South Bridge will close all weekend again this weekend, starting Friday night. Multiple lanes are closed nightly till then, as explained here.
-Also, as announced, SDOT plans to close the West Seattle low bridge to drivers this weekend, starting at 7 am Saturday.
-On Sunday morning, Alki and Harbor Avenues will close for a few hours for the West Seattle 5K.
TRANSIT TODAY
Metro buses – Regular schedules.
Washington State Ferries – Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route is back to the regular three boats. Check the alert page for any last-minute changes.
West Seattle Water Taxi – Now on “summer” schedule, with extra Friday/Saturday/Sunday runs including later-night schedules Fridays and Saturdays.
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 (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!
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