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Spotlight Stories


  • Parade

    WS GRAND PARADE: Video, pix of winners, more

  • Closing

    BANK CLOSURE: B of A to shut 1 WS branch

  • Closing

    COFFEE CLOSURE: Starbucks shutting a store

In case you wondered too: U.S. Coast Guard ‘demonstration’ off Alki
July 18, 2024 2:24 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   Helicopter | Seen at sea | West Seattle news

(Courtesy Mark B. Bauschke Photography)

Thanks to everybody who asked, and sent images, of the U.S. Coast Guard operation off Alki this past hour. We called District 13 Public Affairs to ask; they told us it was a “rescue demonstration.”

(Video sent by Eli Barlag)

(Photo sent by Thomas Bach)
Early warning that you’ll also see USCG non-emergency activity over and off Alki on July 30th – that’s the date for this year’s Seafair Parade of Ships, and the USCG will be participating along with the US Navy and Canadian Navy.

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ELECTION 2024: West Seattle’s newest ballot dropbox is officially open. Plus, what’s new in your ballot envelope
July 18, 2024 1:30 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

As ballots for the August 6 primary start arriving, King County Elections dropboxes are now open – including the newest one in West Seattle, next to Morgan Junction Park [map], installed in May. In our photo above, our area’s King County Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda joined KC Elections Director Julie Wise for a brief ceremony this morning to dedicate and celebrate the box. They also talked about what’s new this election: Your ballot will arrive with a couple new features – the “I Voted!” sticker that was given out to people voting in person, and a list of the five dropboxes closest to your address. In West Seattle, besides the new dropbox, the locations are High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), The Junction (south side of SW Alaska just east of 44th SW), and South Seattle College (6000 16th SW, on the driveway in front of the administration building), and the box by the White Center Library isn’t far (1409 SW 107th). KCE says dropboxes handle an average of 50 percent to 60 percent of all ballots in elections; they are emptied at least once a day by a team of two KC employees. Other datapoints: The boxes are made in Puyallup, weigh half a ton each, and are secured by four 8-inch bolts cemented into the ground.

(We’re told a school bus hit a dropbox and the box didn’t budge, though the bus suffered notable damage.) While Wise was there, we also asked her about the status of the ranked-choice voting system approved by Seattle voters two years ago. As we reported in this update last year, the 2022 ballot measure required it to be implemented for city elections by 2027 …. and that’s when Wise says it will happen. In the meantime, an advisory committee is being formed right now and will have its first meeting next month.

P.S. For this election, get your ballot in a dropbox by 8 pm August 6 – or in USPS mail so it’ll be postmarked no later than that date.

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Date set for park-addition site cleanup, and other updates @ Morgan Community Association’s quarterly meeting
July 18, 2024 12:42 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Neighborhoods | West Seattle news

(WSB photo, this morning)

The Morgan Junction Park addition site, north of the park [map], has been an agenda item for the Morgan Community Association at dozens of meetings since the city acquired the site a decade ago. But last night’s meeting brought some big news, plus updates on several other matters. Here are our toplines:

MORGAN JUNCTION PARK ADDITION SITE CLEANUP: Seattle Parks‘ Kelly Goold told MoCA that the date is finally set for the start of long-planned soil cleanup work (a dry cleaner was one of the two businesses formerly on the site, and auto work was done nearby). Thursday, August 8, is the date it’s scheduled to start, with work expected to last about seven weeks, 7:30 am-3:30 pm weekdays. Five days will involve heavy-equipment use, Goold said. The work will involve two dirt containers on the site, and multiple trucks hauling back and forth. Once the soil has been removed – the contamination is about 15 feet down – it’ll be replaced with clean fill, and hydroseeded, so that the site can potentially serve as open space before park construction next year. If you live/work nearby, look for signage and notices the week before cleanup work starts.

FUTURE ALL-WHEEL AREA: When the addition goes into construction, an all-wheel area – aka “skate dot” – is planned for the south side of the current park, and the community group MJAWA continues working on that. MJAWA’s Matt Johnston said the group’s Summer Fest outreach went well, and their next milestones involve meetings with Seattle Parks – a design review on August 15, and a technical review later in August. (Here’s our recent report on their design progress.)

POLICE: Officer German Barreto had no major Morgan-specific news but said Southwest Precinct (West Seattle and South Park) crime is similar to a year earlier, with upticks in two categories – robberies and gunfire. He also noted that some juvenile carjacking suspects were arrested earlier in the day in South Park (we’re following up with SPD’s media office in hopes of finding out more).

DEVELOPMENT: MoCA has been working to stay updated on the future StoryBuilt development site at 41st/Graham [map], planned as more than 30 “stacked townhomes” (here’s our 2022 report). Its developer was not at the meeting but has been in email contact with MoCA president Deb Barker, who said there’s no indication of construction any time soon but the developer continues monitoring the property and is asking neighbors to be watchful too.

PREPAREDNESS: Cindi Barker from the Emergency Hubs says their work with Gatewood Elementary (which we featured last year) continues, so that the school has a preparedness plan in case of catastrophe. They’ve been working with nearby neighbors who are committed to helping with communication while school staff focus on keeping the kids safe until they can be reunited with their families.

NEW BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: David Hancock told MoCA about West Seattle Wildscaping, his ecologically friendly landscaping and horticulture business. He offers landscaping and landscaping consulting along with small tree (25′ or less) work, rainwater systems, and some small pathway work. In August he’ll be putting in a bulk order for native plants. If interested, you can contact him.

WHAT’S NEXT: MoCA meets on third Wednesdays in July, October, January, and April. Watch for updates at morganjunction.org.

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First Admiral Music in the Parks concert tonight, and more for your West Seattle Thursday
July 18, 2024 11:21 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Great Blue Heron off Lincoln Park’s Point Williams, photo by Tom Trulin)

Slightly delayed by breaking news, here’s our list of what’s happening for the rest of your Thursday, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

FREE SUMMER MEALS FOR KIDS: Five locations and varying times in West Seattle – here’s the list.

SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: Still prime time for summer gardening – so if you need plants, the center is open Thursdays-Saturdays 10 am-3 pm, north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus. Annuals, perennials, sun, shade, natives, edibles, ground covers … wide variety!

SPRAYPARK: Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale) is open every day, 11 am-8 pm, free.

COLMAN POOL: The season continues for this outdoor heated-salt-water pool on the shore at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW), noon-7 pm – session times are on the Colman Pool webpage.

LINCOLN PARK WADING POOL: Also at Lincoln Park, the 7-day-a-week wading pool is open today noon-7 pm, in the central upper part of the park near the north play area.

DELRIDGE WADING POOL: Also open today, next to Delridge Community Center, noon-5:30 pm. (4501 Delridge Way SW)

HIAWATHA WADING POOL: This pool is open today too, next to Hiawatha Community Center, noon-5:30 pm. (2700 California SW)

FAUNTLEROY FERRY DOCK PROJECT’S TECHNICAL ADVISORY GROUP: Two days after the Community Advisory Group for the dock-replacement project met (WSB coverage here), the Technical Advisory Group is meeting online at 1 pm today. This too is open to public observation (though there’s no public comment or Q&A period) – get the link here.

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

NORTHWEST WINE ACADEMY: Tasting room/wine bar now open Thursdays-Saturdays 1 pm-6 pm, north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus. Food too – stop by to sip and nosh!

STRONG BODIES, STRONG BONES: 2:30 pm yoga class at what’s now the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon).

HPCS FOOD-TRUCK VISIT: Every Thursday, 4-8 pm, Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) gets a food-truck visit. Tonight it’s Paparepas.

VISCON CELLARS: The West Seattle winery’s tasting room/wine bar is open 5-9 pm (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor) for wine by the glass or bottle.

WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fauntleroy to walk in Lincoln Park – details in our calendar listing.

WESTIES RUN CLUB: Meet at Good Society (California/Lander) at 6 pm for a 3-mile run.

ADMIRAL MUSIC IN THE PARKS: First of this year’s three free outdoor concerts presented by the Admiral Neighborhood Association, 6:30 pm, Belvedere Park (across from Admiral Way Viewpoint), featuring The Potholes and Troy Aylesworth. You can pre-order a picnic pack from Soirée for park delivery, too.

HIGHLAND PARK RUN CLUB: 6:30 pm, meet at Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) for a 3-mile run through the neighborhood. (Walking option, too!)

TOASTMASTERS #832: Join the online meeting at 6:30 p.m. to work on your communication skills! RSVP: wstoastmasters832@gmail.com

BLUES NIGHT: 6:30-9 pm at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way), every Thursday you can listen to the blues.

TRIVIA: 7 pm at Burger Planet (9614 14th SW).

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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UPDATE: Vacant-house fire in 8400 block 18th SW
July 18, 2024 9:04 am
|      18 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle fires | West Seattle news

9:04 AM: Seattle Fire has sent a full response to what they’re reporting as a “fire in a vacant house” on 18th SW near Thistle.

9:07 AM: Arriving crews confirm it’s a “working fire.”

9:11 AM: Radio traffic indicates this house was on SFD’s radar even before this, as they’re describing it as a “derelict building” and saying the house is a “no-entry zone.” They have water on the fire from “a safe distance away from the building.”

9:14 AM: Now firefighters are going in.

9:17 AM: Our crew has arrived; adding photos. Fire is reported under control and SFD says no one’s hurt.

9:21 AM: Neighbors tell us this house has been vacant for quite a while, and that squatters are often seen coming and going.

9:32 AM: The house’s owner is on scene too and says he’s been trying to keep it locked up. Meantime, SFD has the fire out in the basement but is still working on other areas of the house.

9:43 AM: Firefighters are starting to wrap up the response (which is a gradual process).

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Stolen Tern cargo e-bike (update: found)
July 18, 2024 8:47 am
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

The report and photo are from Jacob:

Our Tern GSD-S00 Electric Cargo Bike was stolen from our garage (Wednesday) evening.

It had an orange child seat equipped when it was stolen. So it looks more like this now,

Our garage is between 30th and 31st and Othello and Myrtle. It was stolen between 6:15 pm and 10:00 pm (probably closer to 10:00 pm). Neighbors’ cameras saw a red minivan, dark-tinted rear windows, case our house twice.

Reward will bo offered for information leading to its recovery. I can be contacted at 571-296-7109.

The police report # is 24-197860.

FRIDAY UPDATE: Jacob commented below that they got the bike back.

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, ROAD WORK, WEATHER: Thursday watch
July 18, 2024 6:00 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:00 AM: Good morning! It’s Thursday, July 18.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

The forecast: Partly cloudy, becoming sunny, high around 80. Today’s sunrise was at 5:31 am, while sunset will be at 8:59 pm.

ROAD WORK

*The Admiral Way Bridge seismic project is in progress; here are more specifics. Fairmount Avenue is closed under the bridge for the duration of the project, likely into early 2025.

*SDOT’s Delridge pedestrian-bridge earthquake-safety project also continues, with narrowing at Delridge/Oregon.

*Beach Drive: Gas-pipeline work continues at spots along the southern stretch.

SATURDAY CLOSURES FOR PARADE AND 5K

Reminder – Saturday brings the West Seattle Grand Parade and Float Dodger 5K on California SW between Admiral and The Junction, and that means street closures (including some side streets for staging) – heed the no-parking signs, because those who don’t WILL be towed. … Watch for bus advisories here.

TRANSIT NOTES

Metro – Regular schedules; check for advisories here.

Water Taxi today – Regular schedule. Check the real-time map if you need to see where the boat is.

Washington State Ferries today – The usual 2 boats on the Triangle Route, and the unscheduled third boat may be back.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS (Minus the ones that were still down early today)

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.

South Park Bridge:

1st Avenue South Bridge:

MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here; West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras are on this WSB page.

BRIDGE INFO: The @SDOTBridges feed on X (ex-Twitter) shows whether the city’s movable bridges are open for vessel traffic.

If you see a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water, please text or call our hotline (when you can do that safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!

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PREVIEW #2: Marching musicians in Saturday’s West Seattle Grand Parade
July 17, 2024 11:56 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle Grand Parade | West Seattle news

Time for another preview of Saturday’s West Seattle Grand Parade – this one’s for marching-band fans!

(WSB file photos)

ALL-CITY MARCHING BAND: The marching musicians of this beloved band are from throughout Seattle Public Schools (which is why you don’t see individual SPS schools’ bands in summer parades), led by Dr. Marcus Pimpleton. Last year, West Seattle Grand Parade judges chose them as Grand Prize winners.

KENNEDY CATHOLIC HS BAND: Again this year, the band from Burien – ever distinctive in their classic uniforms – will visit to participate in the Grand Parade.

SUMNER HS MARCHING BAND: This will be the Pierce County school’s first appearance in the West Seattle Grand Parade since 2019. Their town may not be big, but the band is – more than 100 members!

allstars1

DRUMLINES: Also in the category of marching musicians, watch for drumlines – the All-Star Drumline, plus – accompanying drill teams – Anointed to Praise, Epitome Family Entertainment, and Dolls & Gents.

Two more previews to come before parade day! (The ones we’ve already published are here, here, and here.) The basics – the Grand Parade heads southbound on California SW from Lander to Edmunds starting at 11 am Saturday (July 20) – announcing stands will be at California/Alaska and California/Charlestown, if you want to hear about who you’re seeing. The parade is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year; it’s a community celebration presented by the Rotary Club of West Seattle Service Foundation, in collaboration with volunteers, donors, sponsors, participants, and spectators!

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How much time and (street) space will the new Fauntleroy ferry dock save? Community Advisory Group reviews traffic-analysis report
July 17, 2024 8:59 pm
|      12 COMMENTS
 |   Fauntleroy | Transportation | West Seattle news

By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor

A matter of time and space dominated the latest meeting of the Community Advisory Group that Washington State Ferries convenes when there’s something new to discuss about planning the Fauntleroy dock expansion/replacement.

In this case, the main agenda item for last night’s online meeting was the analysis of how the various alternative dock size/shapes under consideration (see them here) would affect the time needed for loading/unloading and the space taken up by vehicles queueing along Fauntleroy Way.

From the meeting presentation, here’s where the project planning is now:

WSF has not yet chosen a preferred size/shape alternative. That’s likely to happen next year, and detailed studies will ensue. Still lots to discuss before then – the first five in dark green here are what the group has asked to hear about:

Read More

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COUNTDOWN: 2 weeks until 2024 ‘Summer Scramble’ West Seattle scavenger hunt begins
July 17, 2024 7:59 pm
|      5 COMMENTS
 |   Fun stuff to do | West Seattle news

In addition to being a disaster-preparedness coach and realtor, Alice Kuder is also the queen of West Seattle scavenger-hunt organizers. Her next one, the 2024 edition of Summer Scramble, is just two weeks away! In case you haven’t seen it in the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, here’s the full announcement:

Discover hidden treasure in West Seattle with friends, family or all by yourself. Whether you are a new-comer or longtime resident, Summer Scramble is a free community treasure hunt designed to introduce you to parts of West Seattle you may not have discovered. Even better, by playing, you will discover some awesome local businesses and historically significant public sites, AND compete to win the booty from of one of three treasure chests.

How do you play? It’s so easy! Go to wondersinaliceland.com/summer-scramble to register, then download the instructions today. Then, on August 1st, download the bingo-style clue sheet and map and hit the streets to solve as many of the 25 clues as you can. When you solve a clue, go to that location and take a selfie in front of it. Send your selfies to me at bit.ly/SSselfies. Participating businesses will display a Summer Scramble sign in the front window that includes the phrase, “You’re clued in!” Each team that solves at least 15 clues, qualifies for the treasure chest drawings. That’s all there is to it!

Summer Scramble is orchestrated by Alice Kuder, Just in Case, because she loves scavenger hunts, small businesses, West Seattle, and creating opportunities for free fun!

The hunt is open to everyone of all ages. It begins at 12:01 AM on Thursday, August 1st and ends at 7 PM on Sunday, August 4th. Registration is open now, but you can register and send selfies anytime during those four days. Questions? Contact Alice Kuder, 206-708-9800, Alice@JustInCasePlans.com, wondersinaliceland.com/summer-scramble

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DEMOLITION DATE! Milestone ahead for Highland Park Improvement Club, 3 years post-fire. But first, a party
July 17, 2024 4:04 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Highland Park | West Seattle news

(June 25, 2021, reader photo)

Three years and three weeks ago, that fire heavily damaged the historic Highland Park Improvement Club building at 1116 SW Holden. The community trustees who oversee the nonprofit organization and its building immediately vowed to rebuild. It’s been a very long road but today HPIC has announced a major milestone – a demolition date, following a community celebration. Here’s the announcement we received from HPIC:

The Highland Park Improvement Club (HPIC), a community-owned nonprofit in West Seattle, is announcing the demolition of its 100-year old clubhouse tentatively scheduled for July 29, 2024. This significant event marks the next chapter of HPIC’s Rebuild Campaign, a $3.7 million capital project to replace the historic community center destroyed by fire in 2021. A farewell celebration will be held the day before on July 28, at 5 pm. Details will be announced on HPIC social media.

The demolition of the old clubhouse represents a pivotal moment for HPIC and the surrounding community. This project not only signifies the end of an era but also the beginning of a new chapter, focusing on rebuilding and revitalizing the community space that has been a cornerstone of the neighborhood for over a century.

“This demolition is not just about tearing down walls — it’s about building hope and opportunities for the future. We are committed to creating a space that will serve our community for generations to come,” said Rhonda Smith, President of HPIC.

The new HPIC building will feature modern amenities, expanded spaces for community gatherings, and programs catering to diverse groups, all designed with improved accessibility and sustainability in mind. Committed to preserving the community’s cultural heritage and fostering a vibrant community spirit, HPIC aims to create a welcoming space where neighbors can connect, thrive, and actively participate in shaping the future of the Highland Park/Riverview neighborhood.

HPIC has already secured $1.7M (46%) of the project’s cost, including a $50,000 award from the Neighborhood Matching Fund program, administered by Seattle’s Department of Neighborhoods. This program requires HPIC to match the award amount through donated materials, donated professional services, cash, or volunteer time.

Community members, stakeholders, and all interested parties are encouraged to stay engaged by signing up for the HPIC newsletter at bit.ly/hpicnewsletter, which will provide updates on construction developments, upcoming events, and opportunities to get involved.

HPIC leaders say the demolition is expected to take about a week, with work planned 7 am to 5 pm daily. It’s been an extensive and intensive journey toward being able to rebuild, with other milestones along the way like this one back in February.

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2 more Don Armeni Boat Ramp signage notes
July 17, 2024 2:42 pm
|      39 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle parks | WS culture/arts

More on Don Armeni Boat Ramp signage. First, temporary signs:

Thanks for the tips about these no-parking signs, both inside the park and on Harbor Avenue along the park. They’re for Saturday, July 20, entire day, in the name of MJ68 Productions, for “filming.” The company’s credits, listed online, would suggest the strong likelihood of a car commercial; we have a message out to try to ascertain.

Also at Don Armeni:

(Photo by Stewart L.)

When we reported Monday on that new signage, some commenters wondered how the stated exception for people going fishing would work, especially considering a salmon season is coming up. We asked Parks, and spokesperson Rachel Schulkin told us no exceptions: “The gates will remain locked until 6 AM. This is a short-term response to mitigate crime and dangerous activity taking place along Alki and at this parking lot.”

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FOLLOWUP: Artist optimistic about future of West Seattle sculpture after meeting with city
July 17, 2024 12:38 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

That’s Paragon, the 20+-year-old bones-of-a-boat sculpture at həʔapus Village Park and Shoreline Habitat on the Duwamish River in West Seattle. On Sunday night, we reported on the request for community support, from its artist Don Fels. He had contacted us to sound the alarm that after years of neglect, the city Office of Arts and Culture is now contemplating demolishing it because of deterioration, and he asked for notes of support before a scheduled Tuesday meeting with an A&C rep. Fels has since updated us – while also taking issue with a city statement that we added Tuesday morning to the original story, saying that “Seattle’s rainy climate (and) the passage of time” are largely to blame for the sculpture’s condition:

That is blatantly untrue. The City paid an engineer to examine the sculpture in light of the current debacle, and in his report he very clearly states that if there had been a maintenance plan, and had it been followed, the boat would have lasted many more years.

The directors are disregarding that information, just as for years they disregarded the advice of their own conservator. I have a file of emails, going back several years, saying that she knew the boat needed pressure washing and recoating and intended to get right on it. Then each time, she followed those emails apologizing for not doing so, saying that she was told not to. I understand that the city has many artworks in their care. But as Chuck Graydon, a master boatbuilder in Tacoma, who built the wooden structure, and knows how wooden boats fare in our climate, said in a recent letter to the City, “The city of Seattle assured us, when the sculpture was installed, that they would maintain the structure. Looks like that didn’t happen.”

I am greatly buoyed by the support I have received by West Seattle residents, other artists in the area, and by several important regional entities including the Duwamish Tribe. I am confident that working together, the City and I can find a way forward that will result in a renewed Paragon, and its rebuilding will include significant community participation. But the process is not furthered by the city spinning untruths. I have worked a lifetime as an artist and as a person trying to do the right thing. I would expect the city would be doing the same.

We’re following up with Arts & Culture regarding both Paragon’s maintenance history and what happens next. Fels, meantime, says letters of support are still valuable – email kelly.davidson@seattle.gov and cc him at donatofels@gmail.com.

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UPDATE: Fisher Scone Wagon at West Seattle Thriftway
July 17, 2024 12:14 pm
|      9 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

Scone fans! We just got word from West Seattle Thriftway (California/Fauntleroy; WSB sponsor) that the Fisher Scone Wagon is visiting right now:

West Seattle Thriftway has the Fisher Scone Wagon in our parking lot until 4 pm today! We’re kicking off our annual Local Taste celebration with one of the most iconic local tastes there is. Folks can buy a freshly baked scone or strawberry shortcake.

If you’re new to the region … Fisher Scones are best known from the annual State Fair in Puyallup.

3:20 PM: Though the store told us 4 pm, a reader who went to check it out says 3 pm, so if you’re just seeing this now, you may have missed it. However, it’ll be visiting McLendon Hardware in White Center 9:30 am-3 pm one week from today (Wednesday, July 24), not far!

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COUNTDOWN: Alki Art Fair 2024 is two days away!
July 17, 2024 11:30 am
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle festivals | West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

Here’s a reminder about another big West Seattle summer event this weekend – the Alki Art Fair! It will line the promenade, from Alki Bathhouse westward, with artist booths Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (July 19-21), with live music on Saturday and Sunday (the main stage is on the lawn east of the Bathhouse). Hours are 2-8 pm Friday, 10 am-6 pm Saturday and Sunday, for artist booths, noon-7 pm Saturday and 11 am-5 pm Sunday for live music. More than 90 artists are participating this year – see the lists (grouped by their specialties) here, plus a lineup of almost 20 “emerging artists.” The festival is free, with the help of donations and volunteers (check at the booth by the Bathhouse for ways you can support – often there are fundraising silent auctions or raffles during the festival).

P.S. An interactive Kid Zone “featuring hands-on art and music activities for all ages” plus a dozen food vendors, too!

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Talk with your School Board director, find out what’s up in Morgan Junction, more for your West Seattle Wednesday
July 17, 2024 9:52 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(More summer color – hydrangea, photographed by Jerry Simmons)

Here’s our list of what’s happening today/tonight in West Seattle and vicinity, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

FOOD DRIVE: The almost-daily summer food-donation drive continues at Admiral Church (4320 SW Hill) – you can drop off nonperishable items until noon.

FREE SUMMER MEALS FOR KIDS: Five locations and varying times in West Seattle – here’s the list.

WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: 10 am walk in Lincoln Park (meet at 47th/Fauntleroy) – info’s in our calendar listing.

TODDLER READING TIME: 10:30 am Wednesdays at Paper Boat Booksellers (6040 California SW).

SPRAYPARK: Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale) is open every day, 11 am-8 pm, free.

COLMAN POOL: The season continues for the outdoor heated-salt-water pool on the shore at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW), noon-7 pm – session times are on the Colman Pool webpage.

LINCOLN PARK WADING POOL: Also at Lincoln Park, the 7-day-a-week wading pool is open noon-7 pm, in the central upper part of the park near the north play area.

DELRIDGE WADING POOL: Also open today, next to Delridge Community Center, noon-5:30 pm. (4501 Delridge Way SW)

TODDLER STORYTIME: For kids 1 to 3 years old, 3 pm at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW), free, no preregistration required.

GET HEALTHY: Family-friendly health fair with dozens of resources at Greenbridge Plaza (8th/99th), 4-6 pm.

FIX-IT WORKSHOP: Fix it, don’t toss 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).

TALK WITH YOUR SCHOOL BOARD DIRECTOR: 6 pm community conversation with our area’s Seattle Public Schools Board Director Gina Topp, this time online – the link to participate is here.

FREE ART CLASS: Watercolor mixed-media class, at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW), 6-8 pm.

FREE GROUP RUNS: You’re welcome on the weekly West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) group run, which welcomes all levels – meet at the shop by 6:15 pm.

TRIVIA x 4: Four places to play tonight. At 6 pm, Locust Cider (2820 Alki SW) offers trivia … Larry’s Tavern (3405 California SW) hosts Wednesday-night trivia starting at 7:30 pm … Quiz Night begins 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).

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

MORGAN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION: At 7 pm, all are welcome at MoCA‘s quarterly meeting, either in person (WSUU‘s lower-level room off the parking lot, 7141 California SW) or online (link is in our calendar listing, with agenda highlights).

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

YOGA IN THE PARK: Two West Seattle teachers lead Wednesday night outdoor-yoga events at Myrtle Reservoir Park (35th/Myrtle), 6:30 pm – follow the link for ticket info.

OUTDOOR YOGA AND MORE: Outdoor Kundalini Yoga, Breath Work, Meditation and Gong Bath, 7 pm at Solstice Park (7400 Fauntleroy Way SW), ticket info in our calendar listing.

SKYLARK OPEN MIC: Your turn for the spotlight! 7:30 pm signups for West Seattle’s longest-running open mic. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

If you’re planning a show, presentation, meeting, open house, reading, tour, fundraiser, sale, discussion, etc., and it’s open to the community, please send us info so we can get it onto West Seattle’s only comprehensive event calendar! westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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Celebration of Life planned July 28 for Edward J. Landin, 1947-2024
July 17, 2024 9:00 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   Obituaries | West Seattle news

Family and friends will gather July 28 to celebrate the life of Ed Landin. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing with the community:

Edward Joseph Landin passed away on January 18th, 2024.

Ed was born in Seattle to Wilfred Eugene Landin and Eunice Slack on June 14th, 1947. Ed is survived by his three sons Edward, Joseph, and James, and his sister Virginia Landin. Ed and his wife Judy, who predeceased him, were laid to rest at Tahoma Cemetery earlier this year.

After serving in the Navy, he worked as an IBEW Electrician until he retired. He dedicated his time to his family and his community. He spent over 30 years volunteering to provide a means for children to play organized sports in the Southwest Seattle area and beyond.

He is most well-known for his support for Red Shield and SWAC (Southwest Athletic Club) by coaching, fundraising, and a slew of things he did to support the organization. He will be missed.

A celebration of Ed’s life is scheduled from 3 PM to 5PM on July 28th, 2024, at the White Center Eagles, located at 10452 15th Ave SW.

All who knew Ed are welcome to come and share stories, memories, and pictures.

(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, TRANSIT, WEATHER, ROAD WORK: Wednesday info
July 17, 2024 6:02 am
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 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:02 AM: Good morning! It’s Wednesday, July 17.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

The forecast: Partly sunny, high in the mid-80s. Today’s sunrise was at 5:29 am, while sunset will be at 9 pm.

ROAD WORK

*The Admiral Way Bridge seismic project has begun; here are more specifics. Fairmount Avenue is now closed under the bridge for the duration of the project, likely into early 2025.

*SDOT’s Delridge pedestrian-bridge earthquake-safety project also continues, with narrowing at Delridge/Oregon.

*Beach Drive: Gas-pipeline work continues at spots along the southern stretch.

SATURDAY CLOSURES FOR PARADE AND 5K

Reminder – Saturday brings the West Seattle Grand Parade and Float Dodger 5K on California SW between Admiral and The Junction, and that means street closures (including some side streets for staging) – heed the no-parking signs, because those who don’t WILL be towed. … Watch for bus advisories here.

TRANSIT NOTES

Regular schedules; check for advisories here.

Water Taxi today – Regular schedule. Check the real-time map if you need to see where the boat is.

Washington State Ferries today – The usual 2 boats on the Triangle Route, and the unscheduled third boat may be back.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS (Minus the ones that were still down early today)

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.

South Park Bridge:

1st Avenue South Bridge:

MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here; West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras are on this WSB page.

BRIDGE INFO: The @SDOTBridges feed on X (ex-Twitter) shows whether the city’s movable bridges are open for vessel traffic.

If you see a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water, please text or call our hotline (when you can do that safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!

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VIDEO: West Seattle Big Band captivates Concert in the Park crowd
July 16, 2024 11:29 pm
|      6 COMMENTS
 |   High Point | West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

It’s a 27-year tradition for the West Seattle Big Band – the midsummer Concert in the Park. Here are some of the people who showed up tonight to enjoy the free concert at High Point Commons Park:

They were treated to more than an hour and a half of music from the WSBB, directed by Jim Edwards, with vocalists tonight including the band’s newest singer, Sam Henry:

Longtime vocalist Jenaige Lane, too:

And a guest return appearance by former vocalist Jeff Carter:

The concert was sponsored by the West Seattle Grand Parade (this Saturday!). During the school year, you can catch the WSBB performing at fundraisers for student musicians; you’ll often see them at other big West Seattle events too, like the Fauntleroy Fall Festival in October.

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ELECTION 2024: Almost time for primary voting
July 16, 2024 9:58 pm
|      29 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

(WSB photo, May)

When you’re ready to put your primary-election ballot in a King County Elections dropbox, remember that we now have four in West Seattle, with the addition of that one by Morgan Junction Park. First, of course, you’ll have to get your ballot, and that could happen as soon as Thursday, because they’re set to be mailed out tomorrow (Wednesday, July 17). If you want to preview what’s on yours, go here. You’ll see 14 races – U.S. Senate, U.S. House District 7, Governor (28 candidates!), Lt. Governor, Secretary of State, State Treasurer, State Auditor, State Attorney General, State Commissioner of Public Lands, State Superintendent of Public Instruction, State Insurance Commissioner, State House Representative Positions 1 and 2, State Supreme Court Justice Position 2, Seattle City Council citywide Position 8. Once you get your ballot, you have until 8 pm August 6 to get it in a dropbox; if you’re using postal mail, you just have to be sure it’ll be postmarked by that date.

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‘STREET RACING’ CRACKDOWN: Here’s what the bill passed by City Councilmembers is meant to do
July 16, 2024 8:35 pm
|      31 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

At the City Council‘s weekly meeting today, councilmembers voted 8-1 (Tammy Morales was the lone “no”) to approve the bill intended to crack down on stunt driving categorized under the description “street racing” (read it here). The vote followed public comment that featured Alki community leaders, starting about 4:40 into the video.

What councilmembers approved included amendments by District 1 Councilmember Rob Saka to add penalties, including higher fines for second (or beyond) violations. You can read the whole bill here; here’s the council announcement’s summary of what it will do, assuming Mayor Bruce Harrell signs it:

*The new ordinance amends the city code on illegal racing by creating a new traffic infraction penalizing the registered owner of a vehicle involved in racing and by adopting the state law changes.

*Adoption of the state law now gives the City Attorney’s Office the statutory authority to now prosecute illegal racing as misdemeanor and gross misdemeanors crimes.

*Vehicle owners and participants are subject to a $500 non-criminal traffic infraction. Adopted amendments by Councilmember Rob Saka (District 1) increase the fine to $800 for a second infraction, and $1,500 for third and subsequent infractions.

*Any person knowingly attending an unlawful race event with the intent to observe, support, or encourage the event may face a civil infraction base fine of $100 if they fail to leave the event if instructed to do so by officers.

If you’re wondering exactly what the bill covers, here’s part of the language:

… “unlawful race event” means an event on a street, alley, way open to the public, or off-street facility wherein persons willfully: (1) compare or contest relative speeds by operation of one or more motor vehicles, or (2) demonstrate, exhibit, or compare speed, maneuverability, or the power of one or more motor vehicles, in a straight or curved direction, in a circular direction, around corners, or in circles in an activity commonly referred to as “drifting,” or by breaking traction.

(corrected attribution) Councilmember Tanya Woo, co-sponsor of the bill, said the place for that kind of driving is at race tracks and other venues where drivers can safely pursue “their passion.” But as Pumphrey pointed out in his comments, legislation alone doesn’t accomplish anything – he spoke to the last council a year ago before they passed the “racing zone” bill authorizing cameras (which have yet to be installed) – enforcement will be key. Since this was an “emergency” bill, if and when the mayor signs it, the law changes immediately.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Stolen Piaggio scooter
July 16, 2024 5:59 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

The report and photo are from Jessica:

My scooter was stolen from Beach Dr SW today around 2 pm. It’s a blue 2022 Piaggio Liberty. My license plate is 4K4655. Police report # 24-196295.

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BIZNOTE: Starbucks closing Alki store permanently, closing Avalon store temporarily
July 16, 2024 2:35 pm
|      107 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS beverages

Starbucks has a two-part announcement – main headline is that it’s closing its Alki store (2742 Alki Avenue SW), but it’s also temporarily closing its Avalon store. Here’s the announcement we received from company spokesperson Sam Jefferies:

Starbucks is adjusting the operations of two stores in the West Seattle area.

We evaluate our store portfolio annually to determine where we can best meet our community and customers’ needs. This includes opening new locations, identifying stores in need of investment or renovation, and making decisions about store closure or relocation

After careful consideration, we’ve determined it is best to close the store at 2742 Alki Avenue. Our last day at this location will be August 11, 2024. All Starbucks partners (employees) working at that store will have the opportunity to transfer to one of our nearby locations in Seattle.

In alignment with this closure, we are happy to share that our store located at 4408 Fauntleroy Way SW will undergo a renovation and will close from July 29 until September of 2024. The store will reopen with an updated design, including the new Siren System.

ADDED: The Alki store’s been open since 1999. Its most recent renovation was nine years ago, in 2015. Its closure will leave five standalone Starbucks stores in West Seattle (Admiral, Junction, Avalon, Morgan, Westwood) as well as multiple grocery-store stands. The last standalone store Starbucks closed in West Seattle was in Jefferson Square in 2008; that one was open less than a year, and was one of hundreds of closures at that time, but the company tells us the Alki closure is the only Seattle closure they’re planning at this time … As for the beverage scene on Alki, after this closure, Ampersand will be the only coffee-focused shop in the heart of the beach, though several other places offer coffee as a sideline, and there’s a new tea shop on the way to Alki (Happy Lemon).

8 PM P.S. As noted in comments, there’s now a “Save Our Alki Starbucks” online petition.

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