West Seattle, Washington
14 Thursday
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.”
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!
We’ve shown many coyotes over the years but seldom the littlest ones. A reader texted these images of coyotes at West Seattle Golf Course, including pups.
According to this info about coyote reproduction, the average litter is four to seven pups, and gestation is only two months.
If you can donate blood, you can sign up for a West Seattle slot as soon as tomorrow and get a chance at a travel giveaway too – here’s the announcement we were asked to share with you:
Imagine the warm Hawaiian sand between your toes as a thank you for saving lives here in the PNW! In gratitude for your blood donation in April and May, you and a guest could win roundtrip airfare and a 3-night stay in a lush ocean-view room at Oahu’s beautiful Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort. Do something good, go somewhere incredible! More information here!
Help is needed at upcoming West Seattle blood drives! Please sign up and attend if you can!
-Thurs May 14 at Alki Masonic Lodge, bus drive (4736 40th Ave SW)
-Fri May 15 at West Seattle YMCA (3622 SW Snoqualmie St)
-Sun May 17 at West Seattle Junction – bus parked in Key Bank parking lot
-Mon May 25 at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (4001 44th Ave SW)If you can’t make a drive in May, please try and attend a West Seattle drive in JUNE!
Here is the link to sign up for any of the West Seattle drives!
If you need helping booking an appointment, please call Bloodworks DONOR CARE TEAM at 800-398-7888 or e-mail schedule@bloodworksnw.org
Friendly reminders to hydrate well and eat a meal prior to giving blood and bring photo ID. Please consider eating foods rich in iron leading up to blood donation day.
(Glassyard Commons ‘site plan’ from city permit filings)
When site operator LIHI officially announced the plan for Glassyard Commons – three weeks after we broke the news of the planned site of 72 RVs and 20 tiny houses in southeast West Seattle – the target date for opening was in time for Seattle’s World Cup matches. But construction at 7201 2nd SW has yet to start, so we’ve been asking LIHI for an updated timeline, and spokesperson Marta Kidane confirmed today that Glassyard Commons won’t be open until after the World Cup:
We are currently working on permits and expect to start construction in the next month with completion in late summer. In the meantime, tiny homes are built and ready to be staged, design is complete, CPTED review is complete, and subcontractors have been onboarded. The construction permit, water service application, and electrical service application have preliminary approval and will be issued soon.
Since announcing Glassyard Commons, LIHI has also started the process of creating a new site in South Park with 90 tiny houses, to be called Cloverleaf Village; they’ve just announced a community informational meeting about it for 5:30 pm Thursday, May 21, at South Park Community Center (8319 8th Ave. S.).
Sent by Teri (we’ve redacted/cropped the package recipient’s full name):
These items were left on the lawn at California SW and SW Dakota. Nothing of real value left except an empty fabric bag marked REI which probably contained something nice. Two Amazon packages addressed to Lois D——-, 13xx Alki Ave SW. I’d just like Lois to know that her packages were indeed stolen. These few pieces are in the office at First Lutheran Church of West Seattle at 4105 California Ave SW, if she wants them.
Tomorrow (Thursday, May 14) is another pivotal day for Sound Transit decisionmaking regarding West Seattle light rail (and other projects). The ST Board’s Executive Committee is having a special meeting one week after it was presented with a proposal to revise the ST3 plan, given its huge financial shortfall. The list of what would proceed if this proposal goes forward includes the West Seattle Link Extension minus the Avalon station – here’s the “fully funded” list from tomorrow’s proposed resolution:
Fully funded projects
Tacoma Dome Access Improvements
West Seattle Link (no Avalon Station)
Tacoma Dome Link
Everett Link, phase 1
Ballard Link initial segment (Seattle Center)
Everett Link, phase 2
T Line to Tacoma Community College (now 2043)*
South Kirkland to Issaquah Link (now 2050)*
Link Operations and Maintenance Facility South
Link Operations and Maintenance Facility North
Sounder Maintenance Base
The other ST3 projects wouldn’t necessarily be dead, but some are proposed to move forward “partially” while others would be indefinitely “deferred” and yet others would be labeled “not currently affordable.” The Executive Committee may vote tomorrow to move the proposal to the full board, which meets May 28; it’s taking public comment at the start of the 1:30 pm meeting, in person and online, as explained on the agenda. The only Seattle rep on this committee, by the way, is Mayor Katie Wilson.
(WSB photo, roadblock near standoff on Saturday night)
10:39 AM: The 42-year-old man arrested after a relatively short SWAT standoff in Morgan Junction last Saturday remains in jail this morning, and we’ve finally obtained more information on the case. The King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office provided the probable-cause document used at his bail hearing Monday, with this summary based on the police report:
On 5-9-2026 officers were dispatched to xxxx 41 Ave SW to investigate a male throwing things around inside of his residence with his 4-month-old inside. The male was going through severe mental crisis due to fentanyl withdrawals. The male was identified as (suspect, who) began screaming uncontrollably inside of the home and began rubbing lotion on his girlfriend’s head, which she did not want. This caused her discomfort. Police were called about (suspect) multiple times between the hours of 1500-1700. (He) was reportedly swinging a stick around and jumping on top of vehicles. (He) was not located at this time. (He) was also chasing neighbors in the neighborhood.
At about 1928 hrs., officers were called by the mobile crisis team, who were at (suspect’s) home, and were notified that (he) was still screaming inside of the home and kicked all of his family members out of the home and refused to let them enter. (He) was inside of the home with his 4-month-old baby and refused to allow anyone inside to assist in caring for the child. (XXX) also reported that (suspect) was on a new medication that was causing him to act irrational and unlike his normal self. (XXX) also reported that (suspect) was inside of the residence throwing furniture and other items around against the walls near his baby. (Suspect) began barricading the entry points to the home while screaming incoherently. Due to the safety of the child, this incident produced a large police response of over 25 officers, including the SWAT team. Entry was forced into the home by officers for the safety of the child(, who) was turned over to CPS.
At Monday’s hearing, prosecutors asked that bail be set at $100,000; the judge set it at $25,000. Today is the deadline for rush-filing charges; as of early this morning, police had not yet referred the case to the KCPAO for consideration of that. A King County Superior Court file search shows no felony history but he spent two days in jail last month for a non-felony DUI case on which he is awaiting trial.
8:24 PM: The jail roster notes indicate he was released this evening, apparently not rush-charged in the case. This doesn’t mean he’ll never be charged but it does mean he couldn’t be held any longer without charges.
(Pileated Woodpecker, photographed by Patricia Hahler in Fauntleroy)
Here’s our Wednesday list, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar – which you can preview any time – here’s what’s happening today/tonight:
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: 10 am Wednesday walks start from 47th/Fontanelle.
TODDLER READING TIME: 10:30 am at Paper Boat Booksellers (4522 California SW; WSB sponsor).
FREE FIT4MOM MOM CLUB WALK: Meet 2 pm at the Lincoln Park South Parking Lot (Fauntleroy and Cloverdale):
FIT4MOM West Seattle’s Mom Walk Club is a free community walk that brings moms together to connect and move their bodies – one step at a time. Walking supports your physical and mental well-being, and meets you exactly where you are in your motherhood journey. Always stroller-friendly; our walks are open to pregnant moms and moms at every stage of motherhood…because one walk can turn into a friendship, a routine, and a whole village.
PLAY AMERICAN MAH JONGG: 2-4 pm, join players at Missing Piece (4707 California SW).
ART WITH REC’N THE STREETS: 3-4:30 pm, free art activities at Delridge Library (5423 Delridge Way SW).
DROP-IN HOMEWORK HELP: 4-5:45 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).
ROCK BAND GAMING AT MR. B’S MEAD CENTER: 5-10 pm, weekly gaming event in South Delridge! (9444 Delridge Way SW)
FIX-IT WORKSHOP: The free (donations appreciated), 5:30-7:30 pm workshop is back at West Seattle Tool Library (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center), and the library is open for borrowing.
UNCORKED: Real-estate info and community networking, 5:30 pm at Wolfpack Cellars in White Center (9617 16th SW; WSB sponsor).
HIGH-SCHOOL SPORTS: One local game on the Metro League schedule today: One softball postseason game, Chief Sealth IHS at 6 pm at Nino Cantu SW Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle), vs. Nathan Hale.
CRIBBAGE NIGHT: Play at the West Seattle Eagles‘ HQ (4426 California SW), starting at 6 pm.
MORGAN JUNCTION SKATE DOT MEETING: At The Kenney (7125 Fauntleroy Way SW), 6 pm meeting tonight to look at the current design for an all-wheels feature (“skate dot”) as part of the Morgan Junction Park Addition project.
POETRY AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: 6-8 pm at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), it’s the monthly PoetryBridge gathering.
OPEN STUDIO AT POTTERINGS: Midweek creativity! 6 pm, details in our calendar listing. (3400 Harbor Ave., east side of building)
34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS: Monthly meeting, this time at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW), with a 6 pm pre-program on ranked-choice voting.
WEST SEATTLE URBANISM: Discuss our city’s growth, present and future, at the weekly 6 pm meetup at Great American Diner/Bar (4752 California SW).
KUNDALINI YOGA: Weekly at 6 pm at Inner Alchemy Studio/Sanctuary (3618 SW Alaska). $35.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT RUN: Join the weekly 6:15 pm group run with West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) tonight – all welcome, all paces!
HUM-IN PROTEST: Tried [rotesting via sound vibration? Gather 6:30-7 pm Wednesdays at Junction Plaza Park (42nd SW and SW Alaska).
LIVE MUSIC AT THE LOCOL: 6:30 pm. 21+. Rotating performer lineup. (7902 35th SW)
MAD CRAFTY: Bring your project to Revelry Room (4547 California SW), 7-9 pm.
MUSIC BINGO: Weekly music bingo at at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7 pm.
TRIVIA x 3: Three West Seattle trivia venues – Larry’s Tavern (3405 California SW) has Wednesday trivia at 7:30 pm … Quiz Night at 8 pm at Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW) … And trivia starts at 8:30 pm at Talarico’s (4718 California SW).
SKYLARK OPEN MIC: West Seattle’s longest-running open-mic night! 7:30 pm signups for the weekly event at The Skylark. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
SWING IT! Swing dancing and live music at 8:15 pm at South Park Hall (1253 S. Cloverdale).
KARAOKE AT ADMIRAL PUB: Sing at the pub starting at 9. (2306 California SW)
Planning something that’s open to community participation/observation? Please send us info so we can add it to West Seattle’s only comprehensive event calendar! westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
6:06 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Wednesday, May 13, 2026.
BIKE EVERYWHERE DAY
It’s the annual observance of what used to be “Bike to Work Day.” Here’s what’s happening:
West Seattle Bike Connections and friends welcome you once again to Bike Everywhere Day at the west end of the Spokane Low Bridge from 6 to 9 AM. Homemade baked goods, coffee and information on bicycling routes and planned improvements will be available, and local enthusiasts can answer questions about commuting, recreational cycling and other biking issues. Local bike repair shops will provide simple, on-the-spot bike repairs.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
More rain expected, high in the low 60s. Sunrise was at 5:34 am; sunset will be at 8:37 pm.
CLOSURE ALERTS
–WSDOT now says the northbound 1st Avenue South Bridge will close all weekend again this weekend. 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!
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
In a time when Seattle Public Schools enrollment isn’t exactly booming, West Seattle High School enrollment is.
Nearly 1,500 students fill the school now, principal Brian Vance told the Rotary Club of West Seattle today – up from 900 when he took over nine years ago. They’ve had to add portables.
The size of the student body isn’t the only number he brought to tell a success story. He had other numbers, like a 93 percent four-year graduation rate.
And he had some personal points of success, too – dad to two WSHS graduates now in college, president of the districtwide Principals Association of Seattle Schools.
Not everything was rosy. Despite the strong enrollment, they’ve had to make staff cuts for next year because of the district’s finances. Vance mentioned that in response to a question about his biggest current concerns; he also cited students’ mental health, and substance abuse.
He also was asked about cell-phone use in schools, subject of a recently announced district policy. He said WSHS has had a policy since the start of the school year and it’s “going fine.” Elsewhere on the technology front, they’re working with both students and teachers to ensure that AI is used as a support, not a “replacement.”
Vance’s appearance was relatively brief; he said he’d been summoned to a meeting with new district superintendent Ben Shuldiner, whose leadership so far – just hitting the 100-day milestone – led Vance to suggest “there’s going to be some big changes coming.” He did not elaborate.
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
Admiral Neighborhood Association president Joanie Jacobs announced tonight’s gathering as “the last meeting before summer craziness begins.” That’s a reference to the intense slate of summer events that ANA presents. Here are the meeting’s main points:
SEATTLE POLICE: Crime-prevention coordinator Matt Brown and Community Service Officer Jamie (both civilian employees of SPD) were at the meeting. Brown had the latest stats – first urging people to report incidents, since otherwise it won’t appear in the data at all – SW Precinct (West Seattle and South Park) area crimeis down 9 percent year to year, Admiral is down 21 percent. Confirmed gunfire calls are down 12 percent, 30 total, precinct-wide, and none of those were in Admiral; four of the incidents resulted in injury, no deaths. Brown was asked how SPD is preparing for the FIFA World Cup matches and related events; every precinct will be involved in deployment.
EX-CHURCH SITE REDEVELOPMENT: Two Admiral Church congregants gave an update on the church’s Homestead Community Land Trust partnership – the church is donating its site for an affordable-homeownership project that also will include a new home for the church. Current plan is for 21 units, 13 will be townhomes, 8 will be single=floor ADA-compliant flats in a building over the church’s new space. They just met with the architects today. For the last couple years, Homestead has been working to secure added public funding needed even though the church had donated the land. “They’re at a point in this process that our current expectation is that they’ll be able to start construction in September of this year.” Laura added, “The affordable-housing piece will allow folks to be able to buy and own the townhouses.” Mike elaborate, “For folks who make less than 80 percent of the area median income. … The people we depend on in this neighborhood can’t afford to live in this neighborhood,” and this project will address that. He also recapped that the units will have to “stay affordable.” Once construction starts, it’ll likely take about a year and a half. Laura noted that this also will allow Admiral Church to stay in the neighborhood – they voted to do this rather than selling the land for “a lot” to whomever wanted to do whatever. – and, they noted, the site is zoned for much-denser redevelopment than this will be.
HIAWATHA PLAY AREA: ANA’s main communicator Dan Jacobs said the Parks Department just hasn’t been able to send anyone to the ANA meetings but has given him some info on the play-area project. Construction is supposed to start “by late summer/early fall” this year; bids were opened two months ago. The long-pending play area project has kept ANA from bringing even one of the summer concerts back to Hiawatha, but maybe next year. He also noted that ANA would like to meet at newly remodeled hiawatha Community Center but it’s not staffed evenings so they’d have to pay – for staff, for the space, etc. They’re also looking for community suggestions on programming.
SUMMER EVENTS: Joanie Jacobs talked about what they have to do to cover the costs of the neighborhood cleanup (9 am June 6, starting location TBA, just show up) West Seattle 4th of July Kids’ Parade, the Admiral Music in the Parks three-concert series (July 16-23-30), and the Admiral Block Party (August 22). Monetary donations – no matter how small – help them pay for the events, and they are staffed with volunteer power. Next Tuesday (May 19) at 7 pm prospective volunteers are invited to a gathering at the West Seattle Realty event space (2715 California SW; WSBs sponsor).She exhorted the ~20 people in the room to come and bring a friend/neighborhood. On July 2, a screening of the Earl Robinson documentary by local filmmaker BJ Bullert will raise money for the summer concert series, ANA’s Meagan Loftin announced. She also said Admiral history walking tours will be back this summer.
HELP ANA COVER THE COSTS … of all those events, by donating here.
NEW BUSINESS MEMBER: The owner of a new record label The Big Dark Records spoke briefly – they’re new ANA business members. If your business would like to join, find info on the ANA website!
BE A HOUSEHOLD MEMBER: ANA would love to have more of those too! Go here to find out how.
EMERGENCY HUB: Admiral still needs a volunteer to lead theirs – a place people would go for information in case o catastrophe.
NEXT MEETING – isn’t until September, so in the meantime, find your community group out at all the aforementioned events (details on connecttoadmiral.org).
When WSDOT announced Monday that it would close the northbound 1st Avenue South Bridge all weekend again, starting this Friday night, though one area bridge – the West Seattle low bridge – already had an all-weekend closure planned, we asked SDOT if the latter was still on. We had already asked what time the low-bridge closure would start, as the original announcement was just “May 16-17.” Here’s the statement we got this afternoon with answers to both questions:
The Spokane St Swing Bridge (also know as the West Seattle Low Bridge) will be closed to all vehicles starting at 7 a.m. Saturday, May 16 and reopen by the morning of Monday, May 18. People on bicycles and walking will still be able to use the bridge, although there may be more bridge openings than usual due to the maintenance work.
We have been working closely with WSDOT to coordinate around their planned construction on the First Ave S Bridge. The work on Spokane St Swing Bridge will continue as planned because it is not a detour route for the First Ave S Bridge and the West Seattle High-Rise Bridge has enough capacity to carry the increased traffic volumes of people affected by both closures.
SDOT says it’s closing the low bridge to drivers so it can “replace the tail lock cylinder, motor, and hydraulic pump.”
Now until 8:15 pm, you can take your chances on fun gift baskets as part of the Fauntleroy Fall Festival fundraiser at Endolyne Joe’s (9261 45th SW) – including a Mariners-themed Game Day basket:
And baskets for beer fans:
Just look for Ben, Reed, and their young assistant:
You can get in on the drawing until 8:15, and you can dine at the restaurant until 9, with part of the proceeds benefiting the festival, which is set for October 18 this year.
One of two speakers of note at today’s weekly Rotary Club of West Seattle meeting was Keith Hughes, who chairs the West Seattle Grand Parade for the Rotary Service Foundation, which presents it.
This year’s parade is a little more than two months away – Saturday, July 18. The parade is almost a century old, founded in 1934 – as the Grand Parade, not the Hi-Yu Parade, Hughes noted, though it carried that name colloquially for some years. He said it’s the longest-running and largest community parade in the Puget Sound area. It’s a Seafair-sanctioned event. And – it’s increasingly expensive to present. Even with an all-volunteer parade team, it still cost $11,000 last year, more than half of that going to barricades for street closures along the California Avenue SW parade route (from Admiral Way to SW Edmunds), which the city stopped providing more than a decade ago. Now the city charges permit fees that keep going up, he added, saying last year’s permit cost $2,600. So they accept sponsorships to help cover the costs, and Hughes said there’s room for more this year. Sponsorship levels go from $250 to $5,000, and you can contact parade organizers to sign up – WestSeattleParade@gmail.com – if you’re interested in being part of the parade (which only carries a fee for commercial and political entries), you can inquire at that same email address.
With the school year ending in a little more than a month, many families – but not all – have summer plans locked in. If you’re still looking for summer-camp options, the West Seattle YMCA (WSB sponsor) has an announcement that might interest you:
The YMCA of Greater Seattle is expanding summer camp options in West Seattle to help serve more families and provide additional opportunities for kids to experience camp close to home.
In past years, many West Seattle families have joined waitlists due to limited summer camp space. This year, the Y has expanded Discovery Camp to four West Seattle locations, and added capacity at Outdoor Day Camp, Trek Camp, and Peak Camp at Lincoln Park.
West Seattle Discovery Camp locations (Grades 1-5):
Arbor Heights Elementary (NEW)
3701 SW 104th St, SeattleConcord International (South Park)
723 S Concord St, SeattleFairmount Park Elementary (NEW)
3800 SW Findlay St, SeattleLouisa Boren STEM K-8
5950 Delridge Way SW, SeattleOutdoor Day Camp (Grades 1-4), Trek Camp (Grades 5-6), Peak Camp (Grades 7-9):
Lincoln Park
8011 Fauntleroy Way SW, SeattleAt YMCA summer camp, kids discover something new every day through enrichment activities, physical games, outdoor play, and weekly themes woven into the camp experience. Campers have opportunities to make new friends, build confidence, stay active, explore new interests, and enjoy a summer full of fun in a welcoming environment.
Families are encouraged to register early as summer approaches. To learn more about all Y camps in West Seattle or to register, visit the YMCA of Greater Seattle summer camp website.
Financial Assistance Available: We believe everyone should have the opportunity to participate — regardless of financial circumstances. That’s why we offer income-based financial assistance for memberships and programs as funding allows. Learn more about financial assistance here.
Continuing our sea theme this afternoon thanks to Keri Watson for sending the video! That’s a sea lion “sailing” – often mistaken for an orca – off Lowman Beach. We’ve featured and explained this over the years – here, for example.
(Lincoln Park beach at low-low tide, 2024 photo by Tom Trulin)
Plan your beach visits now – low-low tides are on the way. This Saturday (May 16) at 11:06 am, the tide is out to -3.1 feet; on Sunday, -3.8 feet at 11:50 am; next Monday, the lowest one, -4.1 feet at 12:36 pm; Tuesday (May 19), -3.8 feet at 1:25 pm, and Wednesday (May 20), -3.1 feet at 2:17 pm.
As this prime time for shore exploration approaches, the Seattle Aquarium has announced its beach-naturalist dates for this summer – including three in West Seattle, all at Lincoln Park beach:
May 18, 11 am-2 pm (with the aforementioned -4.1-foot low-low tide)
June 14, 9:30 am-12:30 pm (with a -3.9-foot low-low tide at 10:45 am)
July 13, 9:30 am-noon (with a -3.7-foot low-low tide at 10:30 am)
Some days on the chart have even lower tides – June 15 and 16, for example, both bottom out at -4.3 feet, which we’d call “mega-low.” Whenever and wherever you go exploring, tread lightly!
First orca report in a while! Kersti Muul says orcas are northbound in central Puget Sound right now, seen off south Blake Island. Let us know if you see them.
(Today’s sunrise, photographed by Stewart L.)
Here are event notes/reminders/listings for today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
FAUNTLEROY FALL FESTIVAL DINE-OUT FUNDRAISER: Until 9 pm tonight, dine at Endolyne Joe’s (9261 45th SW) and part of the proceeds will help the Fauntleroy Fall Festival stay free! After 5 pm, you can also bid for a benefit gift basket – look for the festival team at the restaurant.
FREE PLAYSPACE AT CHURCH OF NAZARENE … open today, now through noon, drop in with your little one(s). (42nd SW and SW Juneau)
KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY & LEARN: 10 am-11:30 am drop-in program for ages 0-5 and their caregivers at The Bridge School Cooperative Elementary (10300 28th SW; WSB sponsor).
POSTCARDS4DEMOCRACY: New postcard-writers as well as returnees are welcome at this weekly advocacy gathering, 10:30 am-noon at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor). Sign up here before you go, if this is your first time.
ROTARY CLUB OF WEST SEATTLE: Noon Tuesdays, lunch meetings at West Seattle Golf Course, today’s guest speaker: longtime West Seattle High School principal Brian Vance. (4470 35th SW)
CHESS CLUB: All levels welcome to play! 1:30-3 pm, at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon). Questions? Email conwell@conwelld.net.
OTHER EVENTS AT THE CENTER: Dozens every week! Go here for the full Center for Active Living calendar.
CITY COUNCIL: At City Hall, at 2 pm, the council holds its main weekly meeting. Today’s agenda explains how to comment and/or watch.
DROP-IN HOMEWORK HELP: Free assistance for students, 4-5:45 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).
HIGH-SCHOOL SPORTS: No playoff games on the local schedule tonight.
DROP-IN WINE TASTING: 5-8 pm Tuesdays at Walter’s Wine Shop (4811 California SW) – $15 fee, $5 off with bottle purchases.
DEMONSTRATION FOR BLACK LIVES: Long-running weekly sign-waving demonstration on the corners at 16th/Holden. 5-6 pm. Signs available if you don’t have your own.
MODE MUSIC STUDIOS OPEN MIC AT TIM’S: 5 pm signup, 6 pm music at all-ages open mic hosted by Mode Music Studios at Tim’s (16th SW and SW 98th) in White Center.
TUESDAY NIGHT SUPPER CLUB: Alki Kayak Tours and Mountain to Sound Outfitters (WSB sponsor) have launched this Tuesday night event for stand-up paddleboarders – details here – 5:30 pm. (1660 Harbor SW)
INTERFAITH FREEDOM VIGIL: Weekly, 5:30-6:30 pm at Alki Statue of Liberty Plaza candlelight vigil open to all. (61st SW and Alki SW)
WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRAS: First of two concerts in their “Our Beautiful World” series, 6 pm at Chief Sealth IHS Auditorium (2600 SW Thistle), free (but donations always appreciated).
FAUNTLEROY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION: 6 pm board meeting, community members welcome, Fauntleroy Schoolhouse (9131 California SW).
TRACK RUN WITH WEST SEATTLE RUNNER: Meet up by 6:15 pm at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) for WSR’s free weekly track run.
OPEN CHOIR REHEARSALS: 6:30 pm Tuesdays at Tibbetts United Methodist Church (3940 41st SW), come sing with the Boeing Employees Choir, even if you aren’t a Boeing employee – email to RSVP.
ADMIRAL NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION: 7 pm at the Admiral HUB (4320 SW Hill), last general gathering before summer-event season will include an update on the affordable-homeownership project planned for the HUB site. All welcome.
PAST, PRESENT, & ELSEWHERE: Album-listening sessions at Revelry Room (4547 California SW), every Tuesday night, 7-9 pm.
SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING: Weekly lessons continue, 7 pm at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW), details in our calendar listing.
WOMEN’S MEDITATION CIRCLE: Weekly small-group meditation at Mama Be Well Healing Studio (4034-A California SW), 7 pm. Our calendar listing has info on registering before you go.
BINGO: Play free Tuesday night Belle of the Balls Bingo at The Skylark, 7 pm. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
TRIVIA X 4: Four places to play trivia tonight – The Beer Junction (4711 California SW), Sporcle Pub Quiz with David at 7 pm and 8 pm … 7 pm at Ounces (3803 Delridge Way SW), free, hosted by Beat the Geek Trivia; 7 pm at Zeeks Pizza West Seattle (6459 California SW), hosted by Geeks Who Drink; 7 pm at Admiral Pub, free, prizes. (2306 California SW).
If you are organizing an event, class, performance, gathering, etc., tell your West Seattle neighbors via our event calendar – just email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
PHOTOS BY OLIVER HAMLIN FOR WEST SEATTLE BLOG
Jubilation for the Wildcats, dejection for the Lions, after West Seattle HS took a must-win Metro League 3A Tournament game last night at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex, 3-2 over Lakeside. They won in a walkoff – Samuel Kraynek hit a single for the winning RBI:
That brought in Owen Fahy:
One of WSHS’s two other RBIs was hit by Sacha Ninburg:
Cole Williamson got the other RBI. Others with hits included Blue Cheha:
Starting pitcher was Brady Sternberg:
He was pulled in the fourth inning and Cameron Fitterer followed:
After giving up two walks, Fitterer was replaced on the mound by Ninburg for the final inning. WSHS’s next game is tomorrow (Wednesday, May 13), vs. Garfield, 7 pm at Eastside Catholic.
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