West Seattle, Washington
20 Thursday
Today we’re welcoming West Seattle Cat Care as a new WSB sponsor! When local businesses join the WSB sponsor team, they get an opportunity to tell you about what they offer – so here’s what West Seattle Cat Care would like you to know:
West Seattle Cat Care is owned and operated by native Washingtonian and longtime West Seattle resident Ben Larsen. Although WSCC officially launched in April 2026, Ben and his team have spent years caring for cats throughout the neighborhood, building lasting relationships with both feline clients and the people who love them. Our approach is simple: we want your cats to feel like their favorite auntie or uncle has stopped by while you’re away. Every cat is different, so we take the time to learn what makes each one happiest—whether that’s playtime, quiet companionship, extra treats, or throwing on the harness and going outside for a stroll. We believe the best pet care is personal, attentive, and tailored to each cat’s unique personality.
Every new West Seattle Cat Care client receives a complimentary meet-and-greet, where we’ll visit your home to get to know you and your cat. During this visit, we’ll learn your cat’s routine, preferences, and any special care they need, while answering any questions you may have. Just as importantly, it gives us a chance to begin building a relationship with your cat before our visits officially begin. Then once you’re away, you’ll receive plenty of adorable photos along with a detailed visit report through our easy-to-use app. One of the things our clients tell us most often is how much they appreciate these updates. When you’re missing your cat, seeing their happy face and knowing they’re comfortable and well cared for can make all the difference.
Does your cat need medicine? We’ve got you covered.
Does your little demon enjoy supervised adventures outside? We’re happy to take them out wearing a harness for a chance to nibble some grass.
Does your cat insist on drinking water only from the bathtub? Or a pint glass on the floor of the walk-in closet? Cats have wonderfully unique habits, and we’ve seen just about everything. Whatever your cat’s quirks may be, we’re happy to accommodate them—just let us know what keeps them happiest.
We also care for more than just cats. If your household includes birds, chickens, rabbits, guinea pigs, hedgehogs, turtles, snakes, or bearded dragons, we’d be delighted to help care for them too. Whether that means offering a mealworm to your bearded dragon, refreshing your guinea pig’s hay, or preparing a leafy green salad for your rabbits, we’re comfortable caring for a wide variety of small animals.
Want your cat to become Instagram-famous? Our talented West Seattle Cat Care team member Rachel manages our Instagram account and loves sharing photos of our adorable clients (with your permission, of course!).
We’re currently serving West Seattle and surrounding neighborhoods in ZIP codes 98106, 98116, 98126, 98136, and 98146.
If you’re looking for thoughtful, dependable, and personalized care for your cat—and any furry, feathered, or scaly family members who share your home —we’d love the opportunity to meet you. Schedule your complimentary West Seattle Cat Care meet-and-greet today, and let’s get to know you and your pets. We can’t wait to welcome you!
We thank West Seattle Cat Care for choosing to advertise the studio by sponsoring independent, community-collaborative neighborhood news on WSB. Interested in joining our sponsor team too? Please email WSBAdvertising@wsbsales.com for information – thank you!
(WSB photos)
After SDOT told us Wednesday that crews would be out today making promised changes on SW Wildwood Place, and when we went over to check today, we found that indeed they are.
They’re installing permanent no-parking signage as well as reinforcing the no-parking zones on both sides of the street, which is just southeast of the Fauntleroy ferry dock, with pavement paint.
This comes a little over two months after the death of bicycle rider Maridee Bonadea, and a little over a week after a public forum about bicycling safety in the area; the removal of south-side parking was one of the changes SDOT promised, while they say they’re still studying others, including a possible all-way stop at Fauntleroy and Wildwood.
Three orcas are southbound in the Bainbridge to Seattle ferry lanes, reports Kersti Muul. Let us know if you see them!
(Photographer Rosalie Miller says this is a stink bug!)
Welcome to our daily list of what’s happening around West Seattle, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you’ll find even more – thanks to everyone who sends events for us to share!):
SUMMER FOOD FOR KIDS: Local sites are open – see our story for locations and other information.
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: 10 am-3 pm, plant sales featuring and supporting students’ work. North end of SSC campus (6000 16th SW).
SPRAYPARK SEASON CONTINUES: Daily splashing season continues at the Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale), 11 am-8 pm.
SWIMMING POOL’S OPEN: Daily operations also continue at Colman Pool on the shore at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW), noon-7 pm.
WADING POOLS: The regular three Thursday pools will be open today – Lincoln Park (noon-7 pm, 8011 Fauntleroy Way SW), Delridge (4501 Delridge Way SW, final week) and Hiawatha (noon-5:30 pm, 2700 California SW).
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 be there to listen!)
NOURISHING MINDS: 1 pm service-learning opportunity at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW).
PARTY AT THE KENNEY: RSVP deadline is past but here’s how to check to see if there’s room at The Kenney’s “Paradise Party.” (7125 Fauntleroy Way SW)
DROP-IN CHESS: The regular High Point Library Thursday event is scheduled today – youth under 18 can drop in 4-5:30 pm to play. (3411 SW Raymond)
LISTENING PARTY AT EASY STREET: 4 pm, hear Interpol’s new album a week before its release! Free, all ages. (4559 California SW)
HPCS FOOD-TRUCK VISIT: First of two Thursday night events at HPCS – this week and every Thursday, 4-8 pm, Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) hosts a food truck. Tonight it’s Where Ya At Matt.
WINE TASTING WITH CLARK: Another regular Thursday event at HPCS, 5-7:30 pm – info here.
‘BEYOND ALKI’ GRAND OPENING: Tonight’s the night – the Log House Museum welcomes you 5-7:30 pm to see its brand-new exhibit! Open house format, with refreshments, and speakers at 6 pm. Admission free. (61st/Stevens)
RAT CITY ART WALK: Third Thursdays, throughout White Center and South Delridge – find the artists, venues, map here. 5-8 pm.
HELP HARVEST FOOD: Puget Ridge Edible Park (18th/Brandon) needs volunteers weekly to help harvest fresh food that will be donated to food banks – 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. Also visit for the ongoing West Seattle Art Tour preview!
POSTCARDING PARTY: 6-8 pm at Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW), gathering to fill out postcards to encourage recipients to vote.
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, with a track-workout alternative.
DUSTY THURSDAYS AT TIM’S: 6-9 pm, The Dusty 45s preceded by The Ramblin’ Years, outdoors, all ages, no cover, donations accepted for the musicians. (16th SW and SW 98th, White Center)
TRIVIA AT ADMIRAL PUB: 7 pm trivia at Admiral Pub. (2306 California SW)
LIVE AT EASY STREET: 7 pm, the new release by Champagne Bubblebath performs, free, all ages. (4559 California SW)
‘RENT’ AT VASHON CENTER FOR THE ARTS: Take a ferry to see the second night of this production of the classic musical! (19600 Vashon Highway)
AT REVELRY ROOM: Tonight, DJ Havingsex at Revelry Room (4547 California SW), starting at 8 pm.
KARAOKE AT MAX’S TRIANGLE PUB: 9 pm to closing time, time to sing! (9454 Delridge Way SW)
Planning an event that should be on our calendar and in our daily highlight list? Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
DNDA – Delridge Neighborhoods Development Association – does a lot of community work – from environmental restoration to housing – and you can help support that by participating in its Wine in the Woods fundraiser this Saturday. Registration remains open. Here’s what it’s about:
DNDA is having our 30th annual Wine in the Woods event on August 22nd, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Set in the beautiful private garden surrounding the historic West Seattle home of longtime DNDA supporter Maryanne Tagney, this special evening brings together nature, community, and purpose.
Wine in the Woods is one of DNDA’s most important annual fundraisers, supporting programs that connect people with nature, restore local ecosystems, and create meaningful outdoor experiences for youth, families, and volunteers across West Seattle. Guests will enjoy wine and refreshments while learning about DNDA’s environmental justice work, current projects, and vision for the future. Attendees will be invited to make a donation in support of these programs.As DNDA celebrates its 30th anniversary, we’re proud of the impact we’ve made together. In the past year alone, our nature programs engaged more than 1,000 youth, mobilized over 2,200 volunteers, restored habitat throughout the Delridge corridor, and planted nearly 2,500 native plants.
Anyone interested can RSVP at the Eventbrite page linked here.
6:21 AM: Good morning! It’s Thursday, August 20, 2026.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
The forecast is for sunshine, high in the mid-to-upper 70s. Sunrise was at 6:12 am today; sunset will be at 8:12 pm.
CLOSURE PREVIEWS
Admiral District closure – Friday 10 am through late Saturday night – Admiral Block Party setup and festival will close California SW between Admiral and College, plus College east of California
West Seattle low bridge, NB 1st Ave.S. Bridge: Both scheduled to close all weekend
TRANSIT TODAY
Metro buses – Regular weekday schedule.
West Seattle Water Taxi – Regular summer schedule, with extra Friday/Saturday/Sunday runs including later-night schedule Fridays and Saturdays.
Washington State Ferries – Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route is on the regular three-boat schedule; check the alert page for last-minute changes.
BRIDGE TRAFFIC CAMERAS
Here are four bridge views from the SDOT map:
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Here’s the westward view (closing this weekend):
1st Avenue South Bridge (NB closing again this weekend):
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!
10 PM: Avoid 35th in the Camp Long vicinity – it’s blocked because of a crash at 35th/Brandon that is reported to involve a motorcyclist. The rider is reported to be seriously injured and being rushed to Harborview.
10:08 PM: Our crew reports that the south end of the closure is at 35th/Findlay. North end is Dawson.
10:15 PM: We talked by phone with Robert, who says he was one of three people who were on scene before emergency responders and had medic training so they worked to try to stabilize the rider, who he said apparently was thrown about 15 feet. There’s also a pickup truck at the scene, as our photo shows:
10:36 PM: Police confirmed to our crew at the scene that the Traffic Collision Investigation Squad detectives are coming, so that means the street’s likely to be closed a few hours. They also confirmed to us that the pickup truck is the only other vehicle involved. Its driver remains on scene.
10:56 PM: Robert sent photos from early in the response, added above and below. We’re asking SFD about the rider’s condition.
11:47 PM: SFD says the motorcyclist, a man in his mid-20s, was in critical condition when transported.
1:53 AM: Detectives have told dispatch they’re clearing the scene and having the pickup towed to SPD’s evidence room. So the street likely won’t be closed much longer.
11:44 AM: Per SPD Blotter, the 21-year-old motorcyclist has died. … This is the third crash in our area to kill a motorcycle rider in the past year and a half; the other two were on West Seattle Bridge offramps (our reports were here and here).
The Southwest Seattle Historical Society hopes to see you at the Log House Museum tomorrow night (Thursday, August 20) for the official grand opening of its new exhibit “Beyond Alki“:
About Beyond Alki
Alki was first called sbaqʷabqs. It means prairie in Lushootseed, the language of Coast Salish people. It describes how Alki looked—grassy plains and scattered stands of fir trees.
Settlers who accessed federal land grants arrived in 1851 and called it “Alki,” which translates to “by and by” in Chinook Jargon, a trade language of the era. These settlers envisioned a major city from this shore.
As Seattle grew, so did the Duwamish Peninsula – industry developed, waterways changed, and forests disappeared (almost). Newcomers arrived in waves and built homes, schools, businesses, and neighborhoods – each leaving an imprint on the community.
Beyond Alki highlights the significance of Alki Beach, shares stories from communities
across the Duwamish Peninsula, incorporates new interactive experiences – visitors can listen to music from West Seattle’s past including a song Pete Seeger and Woody Guthrie recorded at Ivar Haglund‘s Alki home– and highlights unique artifacts, including the recently acquired Rolf Neslund Memorial Shrine bust.
The museum is on the southwest corner of 61st SW and SW Stevens.
Two Seattle Public Library notes:
ADMIRAL BRANCH HVAC PROGRESS: Thanks to Clay Eals for the photo, taken at midday today. It’s visible evidence from outside of the work that’s going on inside the West Seattle (Admiral) branch’s second week of an expected three-month closure to install new HVAC equipment. The 116-year-old Carnegie Library will finally be air-conditioned, thanks to a federal grant.
SYSTEMWIDE TECH DISRUPTION/UPGRADE: Today SPL announced a major tech switchover/upgrade planned in September, with some temporary service disruptions to result. From the announcement:
In September, The Seattle Public Library will transition to a new integrated library system (ILS), the behind-the-scenes system that manages collections, circulation, and patron accounts. The Library will replace its current ILS, which has been in use for over 20 years and is no longer supported by its vendor, with a new and more reliable, secure, and efficient system.
This major IT infrastructure project will begin at 6 p.m. on Sunday, September 6 and conclude in early October, with most service impacts occurring through mid-September. All Library locations are closed on Monday, Sept. 7 for Labor Day.
During this project, Library buildings will be open as scheduled, programs will continue, and patrons will be able to browse our collections, check out materials from Library staff, and use meeting rooms, study rooms, public computers, Wi-Fi, printers, and scanners. Patrons can continue to check out e-books and e-audiobooks without interruption through the Libby app.
However, due to the scope and complexity of this project, some Library services will be temporarily disrupted, including access to patron accounts, the ability to place holds on physical materials, some online services, self-checkout stations, and pick-up lockers. Patrons will also need to bring their physical or digital library card when checking out materials during this time.
Full details of what’s going to happen and what it means for library users can be found here.
2:01 PM: Also happening right now: A big SFD response in the 7200 block of West Marginal Way SW, reported to be a commercial building.
2:04 PM: SFD says the fire does NOT involve a structure – it involves “materials in a recycling facility.” Still, big response, avoid the area. (Added above, video sent by Kersti Muul, smoke from the fire as seen from 1st Avenue South Bridge.)
(WSB photos by Torin Record-Sand)
2:14 PM: It’s at the Waste Management facility, according to what our crew is seeing at the scene (adding photo above). SFD says they’re working on ventilation.
2:19 PM: SFD says the fire is out.
3:59 PM: Added a few more photos. We’re following up with SFD on whether there’s any more info about the cause or what specifically burned.
4:09 PM: According to SFD spokesperson David Cuerpo, it was a unique firefighting situation, which started with a call reporting “piles of recycling materials on fire”:
As crews put water on the fire, additional firefighters operated heavy tractor loaders to spread the pile out to help dissipate the heat.
At 2:10 p.m., we sent an AlertSeattle notification within a half-mile radius of the facility advising residents and businesses to close their windows and doors to avoid smoke.
The fire did not extend to the building or vehicles. Our Mobile Ventilation Unit (MVU) was dispatched to the scene to help clear smoke from the facility. The fire was extinguished by 3:41 p.m. No injuries were reported.
The cause remains under investigation.
1:48 PM: SPD and SFD are converging on Roxhill Park after a person was reported shot. Updates to come.
1:55 PM: Police report that several people “scattered” after a gunshot was heard/seen. Our crew is just arriving at the park.
(WSB photos by Torin Record-Sand)
1:58 PM: Police report finding two casings so far. The victim is being taken to the hospital.
2:38 PM: Our crew is back at the park and reports police have taped off the trails leading to the bog area. They report detectives on scene include at least one with a “GANG UNIT” vest.
As mentioned by a commenter, neighbors have been complaining about a growing encampment in the park – in the area where detectives are working right now, though we don’t know yet whether the shooting was at the encampment or not.
2:50 PM: SFD tells us the victim is a 40-year-old man, assessed as being in serious condition when taken to Harborview.
3:26 PM: Added our video above of the media briefing at the park with SPD’s Det. Shane Weatherford (besides us, the only other media crews there were two from TV). A few new details: The victim had multiple gunshot wounds; he was found in the park’s “wooded area.” He so far has been unable to give police any description information about the shooter; they’re asking anyone in the area who might have a security camera to check video in the 12:30 pm-1:30 pm vicinity and let police know if they have anything of note. You can contact the SPD violent-crime tipline at 206-233-5000.
3:42 PM: Police have removed much of the crime-scene tape. We’ve added a few more of our photos above.
Two followups on safety measures discussed at last week’s Fauntleroy bicycling-safety forum (WSB coverage here), spurred by the death of Maridee Bonadea on SW Wildwood Place in June:
NO-PARKING ZONE: As we reported, the temporary no-parking signs went up on the south side of Wildwood – where Ms. Bonadea died – the day after the forum. We asked SDOT when the permanent signage would be installed, and today they tell us it’s happening tomorrow:
We can confirm that on Thursday, SDOT plans to make the temporary no-parking restrictions on the south side of SW Wildwood Place permanent. The work will include permanent no-parking signs and interim paint hatching with plastic delineators.
We are continuing to evaluate a potential all-way STOP at Fauntleroy Way SW and SW Wildwood Place, including additional data and operational considerations. We’re also continuing work on other safety improvements in the area and expect to have more information to share soon.
TRUCK SAFETY: Also discussed at the forum: Side guards for trucks. Legislation to require them on trucks used by city contractors is under development, according to a slide in this deck prepared for tomorrow morning’s meeting of the City Council Transportation, Waterfront, and Seattle Center Committee, which is chaired by District 1 Councilmember Rob Saka. The committee also is scheduled to discuss a package of other transportation-safety legislation Saka is proposing, according to this announcement.
Westwood Village remains on the Southwest Precinct list of hotspots proactively patrolled when possible – as reiterated at last week’s “Our City, Our Safety” meeting – and one of those patrols led to the arrest of someone wanted for vehicle theft early today. We heard radio communication about the arrest, which followed a short foot pursuit, just after 2 am, and obtained the report narrative from SPD this morning:
(The suspect) was contacted for trespassing in the alcove to MOD Pizza, at 2600 SW Barton, which the shopping center has clearly posted and legible, SPD Conditions of Entry signage. He was congregated in the alcove with others, and the business was not open at 0200 hours, leading us to believe he was not a patron of the business and therefore trespassing.
We announced ourselves as Seattle Police to the group and advised they were detained for Trespassing. XXXX started to walk away and was given clear commands to stop. A short foot pursuit ensued, and XXXX was subsequently taken into custody.
Upon verifying his name and date of birth, which was provided verbally, SPD records systems came back with a warrant out of King County Sheriff’s Office for Possession of Stolen Vehicle. SPD dispatch verified the warrant. XXXX was arrested for his outstanding warrant, obstructing a law enforcement officer, and trespassing.
A check of jail records confirms that the warrant was for two 2024 cases in which the suspect is charged, so we’re identifying him. 29-year-old Lorenzo Smith is held in lieu of $10,000 bail.
(River otter, photographed by Jerry Simmons)
Here’s our list for the rest of today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar – which you can preview any time:
SUMMER FOOD FOR KIDS: Local sites are open for kids and teens under 18 to access food – see our story for locations, times, and other information.
READING WITH TODDLERS: 10:30 am at Paper Boat Booksellers (4522 California SW; WSB sponsor).
SPRAYPARK’S OPEN: Daily-splashing season at the Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale), 11 am-8 pm.
ART & SOL CELEBRATION: Free arts activities for all at this 12-2 pm community celebration with Arts Corps at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW).
SWIMMING POOL’S OPEN: Daily operations also continue at Colman Pool on the shore at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW), noon-7 pm.
WADING POOLS: Two are scheduled today in West Seattle – Delridge, 12-5:30 pm (4501 Delridge Way SW, final week) and Lincoln Park, 12-7 pm (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW, daily through Labor Day).
PLAY AMERICAN MAH JONGG: Play indoors this afternoon! 2-4 pm, join players at Missing Piece (4707 California SW)
WINE & WILLS: 4 pm, free event at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon) – info in our calendar listing. (UPDATE: The center tells us this is fully booked with a long waitlist, so no drop-ins!)
CLIMB AT CAMP LONG: Again this week – two special climbing sessions, 5 and 6:30 pm! Our calendar listing has details. (5200 35th SW)
FREE YOGA FOR 12-STEP RECOVERY: Wednesdays this summer, 5-6:30 pm at Inner Alchemy Studio and Sanctuary (3618 SW Alaska), no registration but MUST arrive no later than 4:55 pm.
FIX-IT WORKSHOP: The free (donations appreciated), 5:30-7:30 pm workshop is happening at West Seattle Tool Library (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center), and the library is open for borrowing.
WEST SEATTLE URBANISM: Talk about Seattle’s growth – current and future – at the weekly 6 pm meetup – again this week at The Good Society (2701 California SW).
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.
INFO SESSIONS FOR FREE TRAINING PROGRAMS: Also: Get ready for future runs with West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor)’s free training programs – two have info sessions tonight, 6:30 and 7 pm, as previewed here.
PRACTICE YOUR SPANISH LANGUAGE SKILLS: A local group of Spanish-language learners, dedicated to practicing, gathers 6:30-8:30 pm at Mission Cantina (2325 California SW) – details in our calendar listing.
LIVE MUSIC AT THE LOCOL: 6:30 pm. 21+. Rotating performer lineup. (7902 35th SW)
MAD CRAFTY: Bring your craft project to Revelry Room (4547 California SW) for a crafty night, 7-9 pm.
MUSIC BINGO: Weekly music bingo at at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7 pm.
TRIVIA x 5: Five West Seattle trivia venues – Seaside Grill (2820 Alki SW) at 7 pm … Admiral Pub also has trivia at 7 pm (2306 California SW) … Larry’s Tavern (3405 California SW) has Wednesday trivia at 7:30 pm … It’s 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! 7:30 pm signups for the weekly event at The Skylark. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
‘RENT’ AT VASHON CENTER FOR THE ARTS: Take a ferry to enjoy opening night of this production of the classic musical! (19600 Vashon Highway)
SALSA DANCING: 8 pm lessons with BALORICO at Viva Arts (4421 Fauntleroy Way SW).
SWING IT WEDNESDAY! Swing dancing and live music at 8:15 pm at South Park Hall (1253 S. Cloverdale, South Park).
KARAOKE X 2: In the south end, Megastar Karaoke with KDJ Mythikal at Max’s Triangle Pub (9454 Delridge Way SW), 9 pm … In the north end, sing at Admiral Pub also starting at 9, after trivia. (2306 California SW)
DANCE WITH BALORICO: Lessons at 8 pm and at 9 pm at Viva Arts (4421 Fauntleroy Way SW).
Planning an event, class, workshop, etc., that’s open to community participation/observation/visitation? Please send us info so we can add it to West Seattle’s only comprehensive event calendar! westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
Just two weeks until the first day of school for thousands of local students, including most at Roxhill Elementary, who you can support with this fundraiser we were asked to tell you about – here’s the announcement from Friends of Roxhill Elementary:
Did you know that teachers at Roxhill spend their own money on classroom supplies, snacks for hungry students, and even field trips? Help provide equitable experiences for all students by giving to the 2026 Roxhill back-to-school fundraiser!
With support from our West Seattle neighbors, Friends of Roxhill provides each teacher at our school with classroom support to provide a rich learning environment for every student.
Last year, donations helped provide multiple trips to Seattle Children’s Theater, the end-of-year field day celebration, and countless classroom supplies such as materials for science projects, new books, and headphones to help students focus.
Our teachers shouldn’t have to spend their own money to provide basic materials and experiences for their classrooms. Your donation directly goes to our teachers to invest in student learning.
• $25: Covers one student
• $100: Covers a table group
• $450: Covers one whole class!
The donation link is here.
6:02 AM: Good morning! It’s Wednesday, August 19, 2026.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
The forecast is the same as most recent days, again – cloudy start, sunny later, high in the mid-to-upper 70s. Sunrise will be at 6:10 am today; sunset will be at 8:14 pm.
(Tuesday night sunset, by James Bratsanos)
(Monday night moonset, anonymous reader photo)
CLOSURE PREVIEWS
Admiral District closure – Friday 10 am through late Saturday night – Admiral Block Party setup and festival will close California SW between Admiral and College, plus College east of California
West Seattle low bridge, NB 1st Ave.S. Bridge: Both scheduled to close all weekend
TRANSIT TODAY
Metro buses – Regular weekday schedule.
West Seattle Water Taxi – Regular summer schedule, with extra Friday/Saturday/Sunday runs including later-night schedule Fridays and Saturdays.
Washington State Ferries – Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route is on the regular three-boat schedule; check the alert page for last-minute changes.
BRIDGE TRAFFIC CAMERAS
Here are four bridge views from the SDOT map:
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Here’s the westward view (closing this weekend):
1st Avenue South Bridge (NB closing again this weekend):
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!
(File photo, courtesy Bull Stewart Alki Beach Classic)
This Saturday marks the 30th anniversary of a sports tradition – the AAU Bull Stewart Alki Beach Classic, which organizers describe as “Seattle’s longest-running outdoor strength-sports event.” Featured sports include push-pull powerlifting, a team double-deadlift event, tire flip, ammo-box carry, and farmer’s walk, starting at 9 am Saturday (August 22) on the beach near the Bathhouse (2701 Alki Avenue SW). Here’s the announcement from organizers:
This milestone 30th anniversary event welcomes competitors of all ages and abilities — from first-time novice lifters to AAU World Champions. The event is drug-tested and sanctioned by the AAU (Amateur Athletic Union).
Hosted by Andrew “Bull” Stewart — AAU Washington State Strength Chairman & Director, 15-year National and World drug-free powerlifting champion, and co-owner of Columbia City Fitness Center in Seattle. Bull has hosted this beloved West Seattle beach event every year for 30 years, and it remains one of the most unique and inclusive strength sports competitions in the Pacific Northwest.
If you’re interested in competing, go here. Interested in supporting/sponsoring the event, including via donating prizes and gift certificates? BullStewart@hotmail.com or 206.854.2678. If you’re a prospective spectator, admission is free – just visit the beach on Saturday.
Thanks to Al for the tip. Endolyne Joe’s in Fauntleroy is closed until Thursday (August 20) for floor refinishing. The sign posted at the restaurant says they expect to reopen at 4 pm Thursday, in time for dinner service.
The holder of that $2.5 million Lotto ticket sold at Admiral Safeway hasn’t claimed it yet, a spokesperson for Washington’s Lottery told us today. But thanks to a reader tip, we’ve learned of a multimillion-dollar coincidence – this isn’t the first Lotto jackpot ticket sold in West Seattle this summer! The July 5th $3.8 million jackpot was won by a player who bought their ticket at the California/Andover mini-mart. And the market’s owners got a $38,000 because of the big win.
2:42 PM: Orcas are headed northbound, currently off Lincoln Park, reports Kersti Muul, who tells us, “Some just passed by (Colman) Pool!) And they’re close to this side of the Sound.
3:47 PM: Photos added, thanks to a reader.
This happened around 9:17 pm last night, and we obtained the report narrative from Seattle Police today: They say a man reported that he was robbed at gunpoint at an ATM at the BECU branch in The Whittaker (4755 Fauntleroy Way SW). Here’s the narrative, as redacted by SPD:
XXXX had arrived at the BECU and parked his vehicle on the street. He entered the BECU where there are two ATM machines in a vestibule area. He had $1,200 in 20-dollar bills that he wanted to deposit into his account. The ATM only allows for 30 bills at a time so he deposited $600 and was waiting for the machine to process the amount when he heard someone shouting behind him. (The victim) turned around and saw the suspect standing in the doorway pointing a black handgun at him.
XXXX believed the gun to be real and realized the suspect was shouting at him and demanding his cash. XXXX handed over the remaining $600 cash but the suspect demanded that he take out more cash. XXXX told the suspect that he couldn’t access more cash because the ATM was still processing his deposit. The suspect continued to demand more cash so XXXX stepped to the side to show the suspect the ATM screen.
The suspect fled from the doorway and ran to a dark-colored mid-size sedan that was parked in front of the entrance. The suspect entered through the driver’s-side door and was last seen driving away southbound on Fauntleroy. XXXX was unable to see if there was anyone else inside the vehicle.
XXXX confirmed the suspect description, stating the suspect was shorter than him at approximately 5’7″ to 5’8″ with a thin build. Although the suspect’s face was mostly covered by a face mask, XXXX believes the suspect to be in his late teens to early 20’s and possibly East African [also black long-sleeved hoodie, black “slouched” pants, black shoes] … XXXX also confirmed that there was a witness to the robbery, who briefly followed the suspect vehicle before returning to BECU. …
The witness called also had called 911, and spoke with police during their investigation. The witness told them the robber’s car had “rear-end bumper damage that was covered in tape”; the report says it also had a burned out tail light and no plates. If you have any information, the SPD incident # is 26-243984.
11:43 AM: Police checking out multiple 911 calls about possible gunfire south of The Junction have just confirmed it. Officers report finding casings in an alley west of California SW, near California SW and SW Brandon. No reports of injuries. 911 callers said a small black car might have been associated with this.
11:58 AM: The possibly involved vehicle is also described as having “heavily tinted windows” and might have been spotted “driving erratically” near Fauntleroy and California, so police are on the lookout.
(WSB photos)
12:09 PM: Our photographer found police in the alley north of Brandon, with casing-marker cards in the grass:
If you have any information, the SPD case # is 26-244528.
(Recent photo of two Bald Eagles, sent by Samantha)
Here’s our list of event notes/reminders/listings for today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
SUMMER FOOD DRIVE: The food drive is continuing daily at West Seattle Nursery (5275 California SW; WSB sponsor) – our story has the list of what is most needed.
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.
SPRAYPARK SEASON: Daily operations continue at the Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale) – free, scheduled 11 am-8 pm daily.
ROTARY CLUB OF WEST SEATTLE: No lunch meeting this week – annual membership picnic.
WADING POOLS OPEN: With sunshine and warm weather expected this afternoon, West Seattle’s regular wading-pool lineup will be open – noon to 7 pm at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way, upper park near the north lot) and at EC Hughes (2805 SW Holden, last week of the season).
COLMAN POOL: Noon-7 pm, daily sessions continue at the outdoor saltwater pool on the shore at Lincoln Park – see the schedule here. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)
CHESS CLUB: All levels! 1:30-3 pm, at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon).
OTHER EVENTS AT THE CENTER: Dozens every week! Go here for the full Center for Active Living calendar.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING: Regular weekly 2 pm meeting; here’s the agenda, which explains how to participate, in person or remotely.
RESTAURANT POP-UP: The Neighborhood (6503 California SW) hosts Mariscos Panda again today, 3-8 pm.
CREATIVE SKILLSHARE NIGHT: 4:30-7:30 pm at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW).
‘IT TAKES A VILLAGE’: Community conversation about safety and gun violence in High Point, 5-7:30 pm at Neighborhood House (6400 Sylvan Way SW), details in our calendar listing.
DROP-IN WINE TASTING: 5-7 pm Tuesdays at Walter’s Wine Shop (4811 California SW) – $15 fee, $5 off with bottle purchases. “Wine wars” in the spotlight tonight – Northwest vs. France.
DEMONSTRATION FOR BLACK LIVES: Long-running weekly sign-waving on the corners at 16th/Holden. 5-6 pm. Signs available if you don’t have your own.
TUESDAY NIGHT SUPPER CLUB: Alki Kayak Tours and Mountain to Sound Outfitters (WSB sponsor) are presenting this weekly event for stand-up paddleboarders – details here – 5:30 pm. (1660 Harbor SW)
NO INTERFAITH FREEDOM VIGIL THIS WEEK: But organizers say they’ll be back after a few weeks off.
STORY TIME IN THE GARDEN: 6 pm at Delridge P-Patch (5078 25th SW), weekly story time for kids, followed by a garden activity.
MUSIC AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: 6-8 pm, “Unplugged: A Musical Gathering” is for acoustic musicians and singers of all genres! At C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor).
OPEN MIC: 6:30 pm signups, 7 pm music – weekly open mic hosted by Levi Said at Tim’s (16th SW and SW 98th) in White Center.
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.
PAST, PRESENT, ELSEHERE: Listen to full albums at Revelry Room (4547 California SW), 7 pm.
SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING: Weekly lessons at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW), 7 pm – lots of info in our ongoing 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 weekly Belle of the Balls Bingo at The Skylark, 7 pm. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
TRIVIA X 4: Four Tuesday trivia venues – 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 to play, prizes. (2306 California SW).
KARAOKE AT POGGIE TAVERN: 9 pm until 1:30 am, your turn to sing! (4717 California SW)
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!
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