West Seattle, Washington
30 Saturday
(Added: Reader photo)
11:13 PM: Police are investigating Alki gunfire that was reported this past half-hour. One report even came from an officer in the area who told dispatch he had heard a possible shot, and dispatch told him they had just started getting calls. One of those calls was from a resident who said their apartment window near 63rd and Alki had bullet damage. No injuries. So far all police know about who might have done this is a report of a “dark SUV.” If you have any information, contact 911 and reference incident 25-246138.
ADDED 2:38 PM TUESDAY: We obtained the report narrative from SPD – most redactions (names and addresses) are theirs:
At 2253 hours I was in the area of the 2700 block of 64 Ave SW checking the area on another call, 2025-246087 when I heard a single gunshot coming from the vicinity of the 3000 block of Alki Ave SW.
Dispatch advised they were receiving several 911 calls regarding shots fired and provided the following information.
‘’ 1O GUNSHOTS TO THE NORTHEAST, NOTHING ELSE’’
I checked the immediate area around Alki Beach and I did not locate a scene. There were several pedestrians and beachgoers in the area but no one flagged me down.
Dispatch then advised that XXXX was calling from (address), advising that someone had shot through her bedroom window.
I relocated to XXXX address and contacted her and her husband XXXX. They told me the following, XXXX had been asleep in their bed on the 3rd floor. XXXX had gone upstairs and was sitting in bed next to XXXX looking through her phone. She heard 6-10 shots coming from the vicinity of Alki. While debating whether to call 911 she heard another gunshot from outside her residence and felt a pressure in the bedroom. This woke up XXXX reported hearing a crackling sound. XXXX went downstairs and checked outside. When he returned to the bedroom and turned on the light he and XXXX saw a bullet had pierced their bedroom window and into the ceiling.
The bullet entered the bedroom about 10 feet from where XXXX and XXXX were on the bed. I was unable to recover the projectile. I took photos of the damage via AXON Capture and XXXX and XXXX provided an audio statement. I provided them a business card.
Officer XXXX recovered a 9mm fired cartridge casing from in front of the residence. I submitted this casing into evidence.
XXXX and XXXX approached and advised they had heard several shots from the vicinity of Alki before seeing a dark smaller SUV turn into the alley … They then heard a single shot.
XXXX was able to show Officers a video he took on his phone. In it I observed small red SUV turn into the alley and immediately afterword the single gunshot was heard. … I was also able to speak with XXXX. He advised he had been in his residence (address) when he heard the initial volley of gunfire coming from Alki Ave SW. He then heard the single gunshot come from the alley. He did not have any suspect description.
XXXX and XXXX advised that their cameras and their neighbors’ cameras did not record anything. The surrounding area was checked by several Officers but no additional scene or victims were located.
This Thursday, a new documentary about social media and children/teenagers will be shown in West Seattle. Here’s the announcement from organizers, inviting you to be there for the film and a discussion afterward:
On Thursday, August 28 at 6:00 p.m., the Admiral Theatre in West Seattle will host a free, one-night-only screening of “Can’t Look Away: The Case Against Social Media” — a gripping new documentary that pulls back the curtain on how social media companies are knowingly harming children.
The film exposes a chilling truth: our kids are addicted to their screens because that’s how these platforms were built to work. With algorithms engineered to exploit developing brains, apps like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat aren’t just influencing youth culture — they’re fueling a public health crisis.
The statistics are staggering.
-95% of teens use social media; over a third are on it “almost constantly” (Pew Research).
-57% of teen girls report persistent sadness or hopelessness (CDC).
-The American Psychological Association and U.S. Surgeon General have both issued urgent warnings linking social media to rising rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation among youth.But there’s another side to this story — and it starts right here in Seattle.
The Social Media Victims Law Center (SMVLC), headquartered here, is featured prominently in the film. Led by former tech insiders, SMVLC is preparing a landmark case against Snapchat, arguing the company’s design knowingly contributes to child exploitation, addiction, and harm. They are representing families who’ve experienced devastating losses, including Aaron Ping, who lost his teenage son in December 2024 and will speak on the post-film panel.
The panel also includes:
Laura Marquez-Garrett, attorney with Social Media Victims Law Center
Kelly Stonelake, former Meta employee and whistleblower
Emily Cherkin, M.Ed., public policy expert and “The Screentime Consultant”Moderated by: Sarah Gardner, CEO of the Heat Initiative
The screening is free and open to everyone; RSVP here to save your seat(s).
Whether or not you use the Seattle Public Library, its new community survey is meant for you. Here’s the announcement:
The Seattle Public Library wants to hear from you!
Everyone in Seattle is invited to take a brief community survey that will help shape the Library’s future
How do you feel about The Seattle Public Library’s spaces, collections, programs, and services? Take our brief survey and let us know! Not a Library user? We want to hear from you, too!
The Seattle Public Library is conducting a survey from Monday, August 25 through Wednesday, Sept. 24 to hear from the community, including what is working well, what could use improvement, and what Seattle residents would like to see from the Library in the future.
Visit spl.org/CommunitySurvey to learn more and take the survey.
The survey is available in print and online, and it is available at all Library locations. To ensure the Library receives feedback from a statistically significant and representative sampling of Seattle residents, the survey has been mailed to 15,000 households and translated into six languages other than English, including Amharic, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Somali, Spanish and Vietnamese.
To thank participants for sharing their thoughts, Library consultant Olympic Research and Strategy (ORS) is offering a chance to win one of 20 $50 VISA gift cards. To enter the gift card raffle, participants can enter their email address, which will only be used for the raffle and not included as part of survey analysis.
If you’re interested, SPL’s announcement included a summary of how the survey was developed:
The Library hired ORS to provide support on survey development, delivery, and analysis of results. ORS also facilitated four community workshops held at the Beacon Hill, Capitol Hill and Greenwood branches. Over 30 community service providers participated to share direct feedback about Library spaces and services. These organizations represent many interests, ranging from youth, seniors, and low-income family services to literacy and education advocates, housing providers, and arts organizations.
The Library also provided more informal feedback opportunities with patrons at more than a dozen locations. Patrons were encouraged to share how the Library makes them feel, what the Library could do to improve, and even what their dream library might look like.
Feedback provided through the survey, workshops and engagement activities will help inform how the Library shapes its services and spaces to better serve our community.
Two special events this week at Morgan Junction restaurant/bar The Neighborhood (6503 California SW) – first, tonight, through 9 pm, they have a pop-up with Crave. The Neighborhood is usually closed on Monday nights but is open tonight especially for the pop-up. (Free appetizers for diners with reservations – check here.) Then this Wednesday night, it’s the monthly dine-out benefit night, which they’ve been doing the last Wednesday of every month. This week the beneficiary is Alki Beach Academy, the day-care center in the path of light rail. The Neighborhood will donate 15 percent of all sales – in-store and online, food and beverage – that night (August 27) to ABA. And a side note in the announcement we received of the aforementioned events: “We have redone our menu, which will be launched tonight! Some restructuring was done, we added some things, and removed some others, so come on by and check it out!”
Reminder: The Mariners games tonight and tomorrow are the last ones for which Metro will run extra later-in-the-evening West Seattle Water Taxi service, with the last boat leaving Pier 50 downtown at 9:30 pm. After tomorrow (Tuesday, August 26), the WSWT goes back to the regular summer schedule of extended evening service only on Fridays and Saturdays.
The container-ship captain arrested for alleged boating under the influence is now charged. We reported Saturday about the arrest of the captain after his ship, MSC Jubilee IX, docked at Terminal 5 in West Seattle; he had been reported by a pilot on board to navigate the ship through Puget Sound. The Coast Guard’s weekend news release said the case had been referred to the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, so we inquired this morning about the status, and got word the captain was charged this morning. 48-year-old Oleh V. Danylin is charged with Operating a Vessel While Under the Influence, which is a gross misdemeanor. The charging documents say a breathalyzer test the morning of his arrest last Wednesday put his blood-alcohol level at .25. One of the investigators who wrote the documents noted, “The odor of intoxicants emitting from his person was so strong, it filled the room,” even though a fan was running. Investigators also wrote that Danylin denied having had any alcohol and claimed he’d used Listerine moments earlier. According to the King County Jail docket, he was booked into KCJ Wednesday night and released Thursday afternoon; the KCPAO says he was freed on personal recognizance but had to surrender his passport – the charging documents identify him as a citizen of Ukraine – and has another hearing coming up this Wednesday.
P.S. Jurisdictional note from KCPAO spokesperson Casey McNerthney: “Most DUI cases in King County are handled by the cities in which they occur. However, the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has jurisdictions on state roads, unincorporated King County, and some cases on the water, such as this one.”
We noted here last Thursday that Morgan Community Association president Deb Barker had confirmed work was finally set to resume this week at the long-idle, fenced-off, excavated Morgan Junction Park expansion site north of the original park [map]. We just went by to confirm that crews really did start work today; just before we took our photos, a truckload of fill was dumped into the site from which contaminated soil was removed:
This work, expected to last at least three weeks, will prepare the site for hydroseeding and interim public use before the actual park features are added in about a year – maybe, or maybe not, including a “skate dot.”
(Seattle Public Utilities photo)
When Seattle Public Utilities announced two months ago that the South Transfer Station in west South Park would close for three-plus weeks for “upgrades,” the target reopening date was August 29. We pinged SPU at the end of last week to ask if they were still on schedule for that. This morning, the reply: No. Here’s the extension announcement:
South Transfer Station Closure Extended Through September 10
Alternative Drop-Off Locations Updated for Seattle ResidentsSeattle Public Utilities (SPU) has extended the temporary closure of the South Transfer Station, located at 130 S. Kenyon Street, until September 10, 2025, to allow critical safety upgrades and give the newly replaced tipping floor sufficient time to reach full strength before reopening to the public. This essential project involves replacing 35,000 square feet of tipping floor used for waste handling to ensure safe, efficient operations and to protect the well-being of staff and the public.
During the extended closure, SPU urges customers to postpone non-essential trips and to make use of alternative disposal options. Please note the following changes:
Now through August 30: Customers with Seattle ZIP codes and small residential loads may use King County’s Bow Lake and Renton Transfer Stations.
August 31 through September 10: Customers with Seattle ZIP codes and small residential loads should instead use Seattle’s North Transfer Station.
Large trailer loads and hydraulic-lift vehicles should continue to use Seattle’s North Transfer Station or WM Eastmont during this time.
Before visiting any transfer station, SPU recommends customers:
-Visit www.seattle.gov/south-transfer-station for a full list of disposal alternatives by material type and load size.
-Confirm hours, accepted items, and fees directly with the alternative facility.
-Sort and secure all loads properly.
-Bring smaller loads and plan for increased traffic at open stations.
-Use the “Where Does It Go?” online tool to explore donation, recycling, or curbside pickup options for common items.
(Late-summer ‘leaf art,’ as photographer Jerry Simmons described it)
Here’s our Monday list of what’s happening and NOT happening, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (got something to add? please let us know!):
SPORTS TRYOUTS: As noted here last week, West Seattle HS sports tryouts start this week (aside from football, which has already begun) – here’s what athletes’ families need to know.
SOUTH TRANSFER STATION CLOSURE CONTINUES: SPU just extended the closure – full story shortly; if you have to haul/dump something, find an alternative, or wait.
FAMILY STORY TIME: Southwest Library‘s 10:30 am story time is open to little ones and their parents/guardians/caregivers. (9010 35th SW)
HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK: Open every day 11 am-8 pm for one more week. Free. (1100 SW Cloverdale)
COLMAN POOL: Also continuing through Labor Day, the outdoor salt-water pool at Lincoln Park is open every day, noon-7 pm. Fee.
WADING POOL: Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW) is the last West Seattle pool still open for the season, for one more week, noon-7 pm. Free.
NO CITY COUNCIL MEETING: Regular 2 pm Monday “briefing meeting” is NOT happening today because the council is on recess until after Labor Day (here’s the calendar).
ART SALON: 4-6 pm at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor):
This is a monthly gathering of artistic, creative people interested in drawing, painting, printing, journaling, collaging and other creative pursuits. The purpose of this gathering is to provide encouragement and community. Creative people at all stages of development, both casual and professional, are welcome but this gathering is especially for beginners, people who are self-taught, and/or those who simply enjoy making art and think a monthly social gathering will help them make time each month for art! Together, let’s create a safe space for people of all abilities and interests to make art in the company of other creative people. This event is free! Bring your own supplies. Water based mediums only please.
CRAFTING & CREATIVITY NIGHT: 6-10 pm, Monday is “Crafting and Creativity Night” at The Missing Piece (9456 35th SW), info here.
D&D: Long-running weekly D&D at 6:30 pm at Meeples Games (3727 California SW). All welcome, first-time players included!
LISTENING TO GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP: 6:30 pm, ongoing weekly group for people experiencing grief – participate once, occasionally, or every week. Fee; book a spot here. (4034 California SW)
MONDAY NIGHT TRIVIA X 4: Four places to play tonight! Easy Street Records’ every-other-Monday Music Quiz at 6:30 and 7:30 pm (4559 California SW) … 7 pm at The Good Society (California/Lander) … 7 and 8 pm Sporcle Pub Quiz at Three 9 Lounge (4505 39th SW), 21+ … 7:30 pm with QuizFix at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW)
ALKI MEDITATION: Doors open at Alki UCC at 6:45; the meditation meeting is from 7-8:30. (6115 SW Hinds)
SALSA & BACHATA CLASSES: Learn the dances with BALORICO at Viva Arts (4421 Fauntleroy Way SW), 7 and 8 pm classes.
POOL TOURNAMENT: Play in The Corner Pocket‘s weekly pool tournament starting at 7 pm. $10 buy-in. (4302 SW Alaska)
FAUNTLEROY MEDITATION: More Monday night meditating – free weekly Zen sitting/meditation in the chapel at Fauntleroy UCC (9140 California SW), 7 pm-8:30 pm.
JAZZ AT THE ALLEY: Live music with The Westside Jazz Trio, 8 pm at The Alley (behind 4509 California SW), 21+, no cover.
MONDAY KARAOKE 9 pm Mondays, sing karaoke at Talarico’s Pizzeria (4718 California SW).
Thanks to everyone who sends info for our calendar; if you have something to add or cancel (or otherwise update), please send the info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
With summer slowly segueing into fall, we’re continuing to publish announcements for fall-sports signups as well as other activities. Today – here’s what one of our area’s lacrosse organizations wants you to know!
Looking for a fast-paced, team-oriented sport for your child? The Southwest Lacrosse Club (a.k.a. SW Titans) is launching its 2nd Annual Fall Ball season — a welcoming, skill-focused program for boys in grades 3–8.
Whether your child is brand new to lacrosse or played last spring, this 10-week season is a great way to learn the game, stay active, and have fun with friends. Practices begin in late September, with one exciting “jamboree” game day in November and a tournament weekend to close the season in early December.
We believe lacrosse should be accessible to everyone. That’s why we offer:
-Full and partial scholarships
-Loaner equipment
-Simple scheduling for busy families
The SW Titans’ mission is to inspire, teach, and empower young athletes through safe, inclusive lacrosse experiences that build confidence, teamwork, and community pride.
We proudly welcome families from West Seattle, White Center, South Park, Burien, Tukwila, SeaTac, and Normandy Park. Lacrosse also complements sports like football, ice hockey, soccer, and basketball—so kids can transfer skills while having a blast.
“Think fast, run hard, and play with heart—Fall Ball is your chance to jump into the game!”
“SW Titans lacrosse is for kids who love to move, compete, and be part of something big.”
“I didn’t know anything about lacrosse at first, but now I love it. It’s fast and fun!” – Jayden, age 11
Want to learn more or sign up? Visit & Register at swlacrosseclub.org or email us at swlctitans@gmail.com with any questions.
6:01 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Monday, August 25, 2025.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
The Extreme Heat Warning alert is now extended until 5 am Wednesday. Sunday was Seattle’s hottest August 24th on record, with a high of 90 degrees. The forecast for today is sunny, mid-80s. Today’s sunrise will be at 6:19 am; sunset will be at 8:02 pm. Tomorrow will be the last sunset in the 8 pm hour until April 16, 2026.
(Sunday’s sunset – photo by Victoria Gnatoka)
ROAD WORK
-SDOT says Admiral Way Bridge work should be almost wrapped up this week, meaning Fairmount Avenue beneath the bridge will reopen.
-WSDOT says tunnel-texture work has shifted to southbound 99:
All southbound SR 99 lanes through the tunnel will close from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. nightly Monday, Aug. 25, through Thursday morning, Aug. 28, for texturing the driving surface. All southbound SR 99 traffic will need to exit to Denny Way. The Sixth Avenue North on-ramp to southbound SR 99 and the right lane of southbound SR 99 will close an hour earlier at 10 p.m. A signed detour around the tunnel closure will use city streets and southbound I-5.
TRANSIT TODAY
Metro buses – On regular schedule and routes today.
Washington State Ferries – WSF has three-boat service on the Triangle Route, with M/V Kittitas, M/V Cathlamet, and M/V Sealth. Vessel Watch will show you which boat is where.
Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle service; summer schedule, with later runs on Friday and Saturday nights, and on other weeknights with Mariners home games.
STADIUM ZONE
Mariners at home vs. San Diego tonight, 6:40 pm.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Reopened Sunday afternoon after a day and a half of work. Here’s the view 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!
(Los Flacos presented by Sustainable Music NW, August 5. WSB photo by Jason Grotelueschen)
By Hayden Yu Andersen
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
Music is a part of Seattle’s identity as much as good coffee and bad traffic. But the community-centered, grassroots performances often associated with our neck of the woods have faded away as time has gone on. At least, that’s how West Seatte musician Kevin Nortness sees it. To solve this problem, Nortness and four other Seattle-based musicians and music educators have banded together to create Sustainable Music Northwest, Seattle’s newest music nonprofit.
(Photo courtesy Sustainable Music Northwest)
Sustainable Music Northwest is a nonprofit that performs free concerts at community gatherings and events, and local music shows. “The Seattle music community is missing something – giving music to the public that’s outside of nightclubs and concert halls,” said Nortness, who’s made his living as a performer and teacher for the better part of 20 years. Through this nonprofit work, Nortness and his fellow board members – Marc Fendel, Samantha Boshnack, Chuck Demonnin, and Adam Gross – want to redefine what a concert can be. “We’re making it about the gathering as much as it is the music,” Nortness said. “The performance and the conversations should be at equal sound levels, we want people to be able to use the music as an enhancement of the occasion.”
(Sustainable Music Northwest photo: Board member Kevin Nortness)
On August 5th, the nonprofit made its debut at a Delridge gathering for Night Out, featuring local band Los Flacos. The event was a surreal experience for Nortness, who has been working on this project for the better part of a year and a half. “I put so much time into this,” he joked, “that I didn’t realize I was slowly going broke.” Fortunately, though, his efforts have paid off, and in cooperation with the Musicians’ Association of Seattle, he’ll be receiving a stipend for his work on the nonprofit. They’ll also be working with Seattle-based consultant firm Scandiuzzi Krebs, which specializes in local community-building organizations.
With the combined support from both the Musicians’ Association and Scandiuzzi Krebs, and the collective effort of Nortness and his fellow musicians over the past year and a half, Sustainable Music Northwest is now budgeted for ten more shows in 2025.
(Sustainable Music Northwest photo: Board member Marc Fendel)
“It’s especially heartwarming to see it come together,” said Nortness, “and it’s so nice to finally be in a position to say ‘this is what we’re doing’, and we’ve gotten nothing but positive feedback.”
Now that they’re finally established, they’re going to take a breath and keep pushing forward. Nortness has his eye set on the Alki Beach promenade, Kenyon Hall, and the lobbies of West Seattle’s condos and apartments for performances. The nonprofit is also continuing to apply for grants, looking for new board members, and scoping out new locations to perform at. If you’re interested in any of those areas, Nortness says they’d love to hear from you.
“We’re trying to get the word out,” He said, “This exists, and it’s a resource. We’re essentially offering a free band for people to gather their communities together, create connections, and maintain those connections.” (The musicians, like Los Flacos on Night Out, do get paid.)
For more information about Sustainable Music Northwest, to apply to become a board member, or to book them for an event, check out their website here.
(WSB photo by Dave Gershgorn: Award recipient Stu Hennessey at the mic, with WSB’s Tracy Record and ANA’s Joanie Jacobs at left)
You might know Stu Hennessey as founder of Alki Bike and Board in the Admiral District. But he’s done so much more to help make this a better place to work, live, study, and play, and so the Admiral Neighborhood Association presented him at Saturday’s Admiral Block Party with the first annual Patrick Sand Community Advocate Award. Named in memory of WSB’s co-founder, the award is meant by ANA to “celebrate an individual whose in-front-of as well as behind-the-scenes service and commitment have made a lasting impact on the Admiral District of West Seattle.” Stu was chosen from nominations sent by community members. His community work includes advocating for a Walkable Admiral, helping lead Sustainable West Seattle in its heyday, inspiring park- and garden-lovers everywhere by growing Puget Ridge Edible Park from idea to reality, leading bike rides exploring local street features like greenways, and more. As we said during the presentation, Patrick would be happy to hear he’d inspired a new honor for unsung heroes! Thanks to ANA’s Dan Jacobs and Joanie Jacobs for creating that honor, and watch for nominations to open next spring.
(Screenshot from low-bridge SDOT camera, post-reopening)
Since last time we checked, the West Seattle low bridge has reopened to all surface traffic after weekend repairs that originally were expected to run as late as 10 pm tonight. We’ll be following up with SDOT tomorrow re: how the repairs went and if any other closures are ahead.
With less than a week and a half until most students will be back in school, summer activities are wrapping up – including Delridge Neighborhoods Development Association‘s Summer Youth Program:
The program’s participants included one dozen paid teenage interns who worked ten hours a week for the past six weeks, taking on a variety of tasks. With them in our photo is DNDA art program specialist Claire DeBenon, who says their last task of the summer was litter pickup in the area near Neighborhood House High Point on Friday afternoon, shortly before we took the picture. Claire also showed us another beautification project carried out over the summer – this mural on the Neighborhood House basketball court:
The interns got to free-style some touches:
Other work spanning DNDA’s art and environment focus included stenciling storm drains to remind people that fish are She explained, “The youth has done a lot for their community by working with kids and families to facilitate an educational, fun, and safe summer for West Seattle residents.” The interns are ages 13-17 and got a stipend for their work – for most if not all, their first experience drawing a paycheck, added DNDA’s Yeggy Michael, with whom we also spoke while there for the photo op. “This is a starting point for them,” he declared. He and Claire explained that getting into this program is “very competitive” – they had 40 applicants before narrowing it down to the dozen participants.
Last night we published an announcement of two events today on Alki commemorating Ukrainian Independence Day. The first was a 10:30 am rally at Alki Statue of Liberty Plaza; David Hutchinson sent the photos above and below:
Regarding the rally organizers’ choice of location, David included this observation and image:
A very appropriate location for this event. The original Alki Statue of Liberty was installed at this location by the Boy Scouts of America in 1952 during the Cold War with the Soviet Union. The theme of their campaign, started in 1949 to celebrate the Boy Scouts’ 40th anniversary, was “Strengthen the Arm of Liberty”:
Alki Statue of Liberty Plaza was dedicated in 2008 as a new home for the statue, which had been recast and reinstalled on its old pedestal a year earlier. Meantime, today’s Ukrainian Independence Day rally was to be followed by a picnic on the beach at Alki, running until sunset, all welcome.
Thanks to the reader who sent this photo and report after happening onto this at Admiral Safeway around 7:30 am:
When I arrived … there were a few empty packages in the parking lot. Amazon person is at machine …. reporting.
The sender says a store employee told them it’s happened before. We don’t know if it has been reported to police – there’s no obviously correlatory incident on the SPD map.
(Saturday sunset behind Mt. Jupiter, photographed by Dan Ciske)
Good morning – here are our notes for today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
LOW BRIDGE CLOSURE CONTINUES; The low bridge is closed for repairs, as announced here, expected to reopen by 10 pm tonight.
‘BEND IT LIKE BOOKER’ CONCLUDES: Started 10 am Saturday, continues until 11:15 am Sunday – 25 hours of stories, conversations, and community, convened by the 34th District Democrats at the Machinists Union Hall in southwest South Park (9125 15th Place South) – here’s our preview; here’s a list of some of the participants. Tickets $10; through that link, you can buy a ticket to watch online too.
WESTIES RUN CLUB: This week’s 9 am Sunday Funday run leaves from Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW).
AMERICAN MAH JONGG: Meet up with other players – all levels – 9:30-11:30 am at The Missing Piece. (35th/Roxbury)
WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: Find the market on California between Oregon and Alaska, 10 am-2 pm, still the heart of summer produce season (stone fruit, berries, cherries, greens), plus lots of baked goods, cheeses, meats, fish, prepared foods, condiments, flowers, more.
MASTER GARDENERS: They’re at the market today, also 10 am-2 pm, if you have a garden question/challenge/etc. that would benefit from expert advice.
SUNDAYS IN THE ALLEY: While you’re in The Junction, visit the alley behind Carmilia’s boutique (4528 California SW) for food, music, and fun, “a neighborhood party!”, 10 am-3 pm.
FREE NIA CLASS: 10:30 am, first class free if you pre-register. At Inner Alchemy Sanctuary/Studio (3618 SW Alaska)
UKRAINIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY: 10:30 am rally at Alki Statue of Liberty, noon picnic at Alki Beach, as previewed here.
COZY GAMING SUNDAY: 11 am-5 pm at Fourth Emerald Games (upstairs at 4517 California SW), you’re invited to get out of the heat and play.
SPRAYPARK: Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale) is open every day, 11 am-8 pm, through Labor Day.
WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Need a tool but don’t need to, or can’t, buy it? You’ll probably be able to borrow it from the Tool Library, open 11 am-4 pm on the northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)
WEST SEATTLE RESISTS: Sunday signholding in The Junction (California/Alaska), 11:30 am-1:30 pm.
COLMAN POOL OPEN: The heated salt-water outdoor pool at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW) is open today as its 7-day-a-week season continues for two more weeks – noon-7 pm, with four hour-and-a-half swim sessions, each half lap swimming and half open swim – see the schedule here.
WADING POOL OPEN: Also at Lincoln Park,the wading pool is expected to be open, noon-7 pm.
FREE COMMUNITY PICNIC AND CONCERT: Admiral Church invites you to come enjoy a free hot-dog lunch at noon followed by a 1 pm concert on the lawn – all welcome; details in our calendar listing. (4320 SW Hill)
ATTENTION, NEW LAFAYETTE FAMILIES! Play date for incoming Lafayette Elementary kindergarteners and other new students, 2-4 pm at school playground. (California SW/SW Lander)
NO ALKI POINT LIGHTHOUSE TOURS: Reminder, no more tours this year (as explained here).
WELCOME ROAD WINERY: Kick back and enjoy your Sunday afternoon at this West Seattle tasting room (with a patio!) open 2-5 pm, kids and dogs welcome. (3804 California SW; WSB sponsor)
JAZZ AT TIM’S: 3-7 pm, 4th annual Jazz Renion with Reggie Goings and friends. (16th SW/SW 98th, White Center)
CLASSIC NOVELS (AND MOVIES) BOOK CLUB: 3 pm at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor). This month’s title: “One Hundred Years of Solitude” (1967) by Nobel Prize winner Gabriel García Márquez.
FREE OUTDOOR YOGA: 5 pm at Emma Schmitz Memorial Overlook (4500 block Beach Drive SW) with Dragonfly.
LISTENING PARTY AT EASY STREET: 5 pm, featuring music by The Deftones. Free, all ages. (4559 California SW)
LIVE MUSIC AT THE ALLEY: 8-10 pm, Sunday night music with the Triangular Jazztet at The Alley (behind 4509 California SW).
Are you planning, organizing, and/or publicizing something that we could feature on the WSB community event calendar – one-time or recurring? Please email us the basic details – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
10:55 PM: At right, that’s Rachel Glass, in the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Local 751 hall, in the 13th hour of the marathon “Bend It Like Booker” event she organized, with dozens of speakers. The person at the podium now is talking about the Constitution, and its first three words … “We the People” … noting the inclusivity of that phrase. As we walked in a few moments, Glass whispered big news … the inspiration for this marathon, New Jersey U.S. Senator Cory Booker – who spoke on the Senate floor for 25 hours last spring – plans to send a video to be part of this megastream. Meantime, the speaker is examining Walt Whitman‘s reverence for democracy – writing of “the great American lesson” and about what he envisioned doing “For you, O democracy!”
This has been under way since 10 am. WSB contributing photojournalist Dave Gershgorn stopped by in the early going, when Glass introduced U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, joining by video:
This event also can be viewed online as well as in person (yes, the doors are open on the east side of the union hall at 9125 15th Place S.) – tickets are available here.
Meantime, the speaker (Dave) has gone on to read Whitman’s work, “Song of Myself.”
11:05 PM: Glass introduces the Russian-immigrant couple, Yuri and Natasha, who she had mentioned when we spoke for a preview. They will reflect on their years in Russia and draw parallels to what’s happening in the U.S. now. They left Russia a decade ago, then spent six years in Lithuania, and have been here for four years. … Yuri spoke of his disbelief upon learning of Russia’s war on Ukraine. … Natasha, born in 1991 in Moscow, spoke of the years of hope for democracy there, and then “how it happened … a dictator was elected by the people.” In her childhood, before then, “there was free speech” – she recalled a TV series where politicians were lampooned, “and that was allowed.” But then people “were pissed off” because they’d been given economic promises that did not come true, or at least, not quickly enough. The “never-ending” war in Chechnya upset people too, she said. She spoke of how Putin emerged as an unpopular unknown – until “one event,” terrorist attacks blamed on Chechnya; Putin promised to protect people “and his rating went up.” The active war ended but attacks did not, she said. She concluded that “when you trade freedom for security, you get neither.”
11:45 PM: Yuri reclaimed the mic and said that in his view, Donald Trump is working from the same playbook that Putin and others before him used. When Natasha picked up the narrative again, she spoke about ways that Putin had taken over institutions and branches of government.
Yuri then showed Russian video of four people getting pulled off the street by police and detained for an anti-war protest – something as simple as holding a piece of paper – and then a clip of a woman taken away for a pro-war demonstration. Yuri also veered into song lyrics he said he’s working on, encompassing the loss of freedom. But, he added, “I don’t want to be right” about what he fears is unfolding here as it did in his homeland. And he showed a song video he’d been working on, about war. With that, at 12:10 am, he and Natasha prepared to leave the podium.
12:10 AM: The number of people here is up to a dozen or so. Glass is showing the video sent by Sen. Booker. He thanked them for “sparking hope.” (We recorded it off the screen and [update] have added it below.)…
She followed it up with the video sent by Gov. Bob Ferguson.
Another live speaker was about to take the podium as we departed.
(Photo by David Hutchinson)
Tomorrow (Sunday, August 24) is Ukrainian Independence Day. Not only has someone draped the Alki Statue of Liberty in the Ukrainian flag, the beach will see two related events tomorrow. A rally supporting Ukraine freedom, as Russian attacks continue, is planned for Alki Statue of Liberty Plaza 10:30 am-noon on Sunday. The organization sponsoring it, according to the announcement we received, is Ukraine Defense Support. Immediately afterward, starting at noon on the beach, the Ukrainian Association of Washington State plans a Ukraine Independence Day Celebration and Picnic, scheduled to continue until sunset.
Unusual news release came in this afternoon from the U.S. Coast Guard in Seattle – reporting the arrest of a cargo-ship captain this week at West Seattle’s Terminal 5:
The Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS) arrested the captain of the motor vessel MSC Jubilee IX for suspicion of operating the vessel while intoxicated following a boarding at Terminal 5 in Seattle, Aug 20, 2025.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound were notified by a Puget Sound Pilot aboard the MSC Jubilee IX, who reported the vessel’s captain was exhibiting signs of intoxication. The pilot and first mate operated the vessel during the transit from an anchorage near Everett, Wash., to Terminal 5 at the Port of Seattle without incident.
Upon mooring at Terminal 5, a Coast Guard boarding team and CGIS agents initiated a boarding and port state control examination. Crews administered a field sobriety and breathalyzer test to the captain, which found that he was impaired more than six times the legal limit for commercial mariners.
The captain was arrested and transported by CGIS to the King County Jail, where charges were referred to the King County Prosecutor for boating under the influence.
The vessel was detained by the Coast Guard until a relief captain was identified and confirmed. The vessel has since been cleared to resume operations.
“The Coast Guard is proud to ensure the safety and security of the maritime transportation system,” said Paul Shultz, Special Agent in Charge, CGIS Northwest Field Office. “The Pilot’s immediate intervention mitigated significant risks and ensured the safe passage of the vessel”.
The MSC Jubilee IX is a 333 meter container ship operating under the Liberian flag.
The incident remains under investigation.
So far as we’ve been able to find via research, the legal blood-alcohol limit for commercial boating is .04. We’re following up to find out the captain’s status. According to VesselFinder, the ship left Seattle early Friday and is heading to Prince Rupert, B.C.
MONDAY UPDATE: From the King County PAO, “This morning, the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office charged that boat captain, Oleh Danylin, with Operation of a Vessel While Under the Influence.” Separate story to come.
10:59 AM: It’s a spectacular late-summer day and we’re on site at this year’s Admiral Block Party, in and along California SW in the block between Admiral and College. Main-stage music is about to start – here’s the schedule:
Justin Kausal-Hayes – 11 am
Sad Dad Autumn – 12:00 pm
School of Rock – 1:15 pm
Michael Pearsall – 2:30 pm
Potholes – 3:45 pm
Baby Crow Flight School – 5:15 pm
Six Killers – 6:30 pm
Sun King – 7:45 pm
We’re right next to the booth for the Admiral Neighborhood Association, which presents the festival – and on the other side, Timeless Kitchen Design (WSB sponsor). Lots of coverage to come! Better yet, come on down and see who’s here!
11:36 AM: Justin Kausal-Hayes is performing mostly classics – in our clip is part of Paul Simon‘s “Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard.” Sad Dad Autumn follows him at noon. … Justin was introduced by ANA president Joanie Jacobs:
She mentioned that at 5 pm today onstage, ANA will present the first annual award named after the late WSB co-founder Patrick Sand. If you’re here at 5, come to the stage and applaud the recipient (secret until then), an amazing community advocate who, like Patrick, does their work without seeking the spotlight. … ANA also is having a raffle during the festival – stop by their booth (in front of West Wings, looks like a little beige house with white-trim windows) to ask!
12:11 PM: No formal kid zone here, but lots to do – games in the street and in some booths, and a face painter right across from our booth:
Face painting is on the east side of the street, in front of Head to Toe, between the booths where you’ll find the Community Emergency Communication Hubs (stop by and find out where your nearest one is, in case of catastrophe!) and Emerald City Threads (motto, “local gear that doesn’t suck”).
12:58 PM: The music schedule has slid a bit so Sad Dad Autumn is still onstage as 1 pm approaches. Above is a a sample of their acoustic-accompanied harmonies, a fitting soundtrack for late summer. After a stop by the stage, we checked out the north end of the festival, where you’ll find a booth with two truly hot tickets you might want to get in on fast:
The West Seattle Food Bank booth still has some $5 tickets left for their “win tickets to the Taste of West Seattle” drawing, and this is your last chance to buy them – the drawing is on Monday. And of course you also can buy tickets to the Taste (September 25) directly – online too! WSFB is by the extended Arthur’s outdoor café today, west side of the street.
1:18 PM: Next to WSFB, this booth is a don’t miss:
Tired of bad news, doomscrolling, hearing about what’s wrong and never hearing about what’s right? For six years, Matthew Lee Johnston has published PMA magazine, celebrating good people and good things that are happening. So go step into the Positivity Portal here at the Admiral Block Party and be inspired.
2:40 PM: School of Rock is wrapping up onstage; Michael Pearsall is up next. Meantime, another activity option – bowling!
West Seattle Bowl, up from The Junction, is presenting the activity, promoting learning how to bowl.
3:33 PM: Another drawing you might consider getting in on while you’re here – look for this display at the Admiral Neighborhood Association booth:
$25 – to support ANA events like this one – gets you a ticket in the drawing for one of two gift boxes worth more than $500 each. The drawing will be held at 6:15, so you still have two and a half hours to buy a ticket. … Michael Pearsall is onstage; we recorded one of the songs he performed at his recent Admiral Music in the Parks concert (AMP is another ANA presentation), “These American Dreams“:
Another local favorite, The Potholes, will follow him.
4:50 PM: The Potholes have wrapped up as the vendors/activities part of the festival approaches its final hour – those of us with booths are staying at least until 6 pm (after that, it’s up to individual participants). Music will continue until about 9 pm; this block of California SW will remain closed until everything is fully cleared out overnight. But there’s still a steady stream of people, and we’re presenting the first ANA award in Patrick’s honor in a few minutes, so the Block Party goes on!
5:24 PM: The first recipient is Stu Hennessey, of Alki Bike and Board and more (Sustainable West Seattle and Puget Ridge Edible Park come to mind, as well as his Walkable Admiral) proposal. Separate story later! Meantime, Baby Crow Flight School is onstage. …
7 PM: We left the festival at 6, so we’re not there to cover its final hours. But ANA leadership was heard expressing joy in how it turned out – especially the weather, compared to last year’s soggy, chilly day. ANA’s president Joanie Jacobs also took the mic multiple times today to thank both sponsors and the corps of volunteers who helped keep it running smoothly.
(At least one person wore both hats – Paula Kennedy of Timeless Kitchen Design not only was a sponsor with a booth there all day, when pack-up time arrived at 6, she grabbed equipment left by A Cleaner Alki‘s Block Drop cleanup program and started patrolling for litter!)
9:54 PM: WSB contributing photojournalist Dave Gershgorn was there for the evening bands!
We’re now a week away from Labor Day weekend, and most students return to school right after that. As we’ve been mentioning, that means sports start up, too, and that’s not just the traditional sports … here’s another announcement we were asked to share – note that it’s for ALL local high-school students:
High Schoolers: Looking for a new fall sport?
Join Westside Ultimate Frisbee!Westside is a no cut team for high schoolers in West Seattle that welcomes all genders across our JV, Varsity, and Club teams.
Join in the official start of season practices and varsity tryouts Aug 25-29.
Monday-Friday, 4-6 p.m. at Lincoln Park Baseball Fields.If you have any questions or would like more info, contact WSHSfrisbee@gmail.com
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