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COUNTDOWN: One sure sign that it’s just three days until West Seattle Grand Parade and Float Dodger 5K!
July 15, 2026 1:21 pm
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 |   West Seattle Grand Parade | West Seattle news

Thanks to Al for the photo of a truck bearing “no parking” signs arriving this morning in The Admiral District, start of the route for Saturday’s West Seattle Grand Parade and Float Dodger 5K. Both start in Admiral and head southbound on California (the parade disperses after reaching SW Edmunds, but the 5K is round trip). The parking restrictions will take effect early Saturday morning, and they are enforced – tow trucks are unfortunately usually busy that morning – so if you would usually be parking along the parade route on California, watch for the signs and don’t ignore them! The street closure on California starts at 8 am.

If you’re not familiar with the Float Dodger 5K, it’s a pre-parade run/walk in the spirit of the Seafair Torchlight Run preceding the Torchlight Parade. West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor) presents it as a fundraiser for the West Seattle Food Bank, so participants are doing good while having a good time. (Costumes encouraged!) Go here to register. There’s also a free “kids dash” to get the morning going at 8:45 am.

Afterward, settle into your spot to watch the Grand Parade, official start time at California/Lander 11 am but the SPD Motorcycle Drill Team is usually a bit earlier, ~10:45 am. Next parade-entry preview later today/tonight!

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Arson damage on Madison Middle School turf
July 15, 2026 11:52 am
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 |   West Seattle fires | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

Malia sent that photo Monday night after noticing the burned chair and fire damage on the turf at Madison Middle School‘s playfield. It was long out by the time she happened onto it. When she called it to our attention, we looked for an SFD call and couldn’t find one. So we pursued inquiries with the school district and she contacted SFD, which said they would give the information to investigators, and asked that anyone with information contact SPD.

Meantime, a district spokesperson replied to us today regarding repairs and whether the damage would limit use of the field:

Damage is located outside the playing lines of the field so the field can be used while we wait on the vendor. A vendor has been contacted to provide a quote and then schedule a crew to come a repair the scorched area that is roughly a five-foot circle. Once vendor reaches back and (purchase order) is generated, the vendor will perform the repairs and access for any damage below the fibers at that time … and repair as needed. A police report was filed about the damage.

We don’t (yet) have the incident number but if you have information for investigators (via the SPD non-emergency line at 206-625-5011), the official address for Madison to which you can refer is 3429 45th Avenue SW. Madison’s turf is relatively new, and levy-funded; we covered the dedication two years ago.

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Morgan Community Association, free yoga for 12-step recovery, crafting, trivia, more for your West Seattle Wednesday
July 15, 2026 9:59 am
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 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Sunrise photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)

Here’s our list for today/tonight, with highlights mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar – which you can preview any time:

SUMMER FOOD FOR KIDS: Some local sites are now open – see our story for locations and other information.

strong>TODDLER READING TIME: 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.

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) and Lincoln Park, 12-7 pm (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW).

LOW-LOW TIDE: Today at 12:08 pm, it’s out to -3.6 feet. Tread lightly!

PLAY AMERICAN MAH JONGG: 2-4 pm, join players at Missing Piece (4707 California SW).

SUMMER QUEST: Today, 3-4:30 pm at Delridge Library (5423 Delridge Way SW), Xochimilco mixed media:

In this workshop led by Amaranta Sandys, you will learn how to draw and illustrate an Ajolote, an incredible salamander from Lake Xochimiloco, that regrows its limbs and organs – a process that fascinates scientists.

FREE YOGA FOR 12-STEP RECOVERY: New listing! Wednesdays for next month and a half, 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 at Elliott Bay Brewing (4720 California SW).

STAFF DJ NIGHT AT EASY STREET: 6-8 pm at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW), tonight’s staff DJ is Wyatt, and “every song is guaranteed to be a surprise.”

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.

PRACTICE YOUR SPANISH SPEAKING: New local group of Spanish-language learners, dedicated to practicing it, 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)

MORGAN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION: Live, work, shop, and/or study in the Morgan Junction area? Come see and hear what’s up in your community! 7 pm at Alki Arts (6030 California SW) or online – attendance link is in the agenda document.

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 5: Five West Seattle trivia venues – Seaside Grill (2820 Alki SW) has 7 pm trivia on Wednesdays, tonight’s Hollywood Blockbuster Night … Admiral Pub has trivia at 7:10 pm (2306 California SW) … 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 WEDNESDAY! Swing dancing and live music at 8:15 pm at South Park Hall (1253 S. Cloverdale, South Park).

KARAOKE X 2: Megastar Karaoke with KDJ Mythikal at Max’s Triangle Pub (9454 Delridge Way SW), pm … Or, sing at Admiral Pub starting at 9, after trivia. (2306 California 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!

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Remembering John A. Kosmach, 1955-2026
July 15, 2026 9:00 am
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 |   Obituaries | West Seattle news

Family and friends are remembering John Kosmach, and sharing this remembrance with his community:

It is with a sad heart that we announce the passing of our dear brother and father.

John August Kosmach, born August 19, 1955 in Seattle, passed away July 2, 2026, at the age of 70, in Kirkland, at Evergreen Hospice Care, of complications due to pulmonary fibrosis. He was the first son of Mary and August (Kossy) Kosmach.

John lived in West Seattle from when he was born to the day of his death. He was baptized at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in West Seattle. He graduated from West Seattle High School.

An avid sports fan, he liked watching all sports but had a passion for the Seattle Seahawks. Through the years he enjoyed gambling, old cars, golf, pizza, and beer. He also liked to lie out in the sun and get a tan. Sometimes at Alki Beach, which he loved. In later years of our parents’ lives, John also helped out with the yard work, making it easier for them.

As a young boy, a few anecdotes happened that are remembered. One is when he was playing in the trees and got his foot caught in the “V” of a tree branch. He yelled, “Go get my Mom!”

Another event had to do with shrimp. As a boy he did not like it. One evening the family had shrimp for dinner so, not wanting to eat it, he stuffed the shrimp into his shirt and went outside walking along the sidewalk and the shrimp was falling out of his shirt. Needless to say, dad caught him.

John was not known for his culinary attributes. It was mentioned that he never used the stove in his apartment. Always preferring the quick cooking of the microwave. A chef shudders somewhere.

During his work years he enjoyed several jobs. He worked for Rainier Brewery, Shasta Beverage, and Roadway Express as a forklift driver. Also, Boeing, Stovers food truck, and Sysco warehouse.

Early in his years he signed up to be a tissue donor. Part of tissue donation is taking eye tissue. So, someone may be able to see again because of his thoughtfulness.

John is survived by many relatives. He was number four in a family of eight children.

John is also survived by his daughter Julissa Kosmach, sisters – Kathleen Kosmach-Omero, Janet Picinich (Jim), Sharon Scherer (Steve), Carol Deutsch (Gordon), Chris VanderHeyden (Mike), and Mary Theresa Kosmach. Brother – David (Kimberly) Kosmach. Nieces – Krista Zeissel (Colin), Jessica Scherer, Stephanie Scherer, Jennifer VanderHeyen, Allison VanderHeyen (Peter). Nephews – Jason Tyo, Nathan Tyo (Heather), Seth Kosmach, Nick VanderHeyen (Angelica), Joseph VanderHeyden. Also, grand-nieces and -nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents Mary (Griffin) and August Kosmach, and his nephew Jimmy Picinich (Kelli).
John chose to be cremated. A private memorial will be held for him by his family. Prayers for John are gratefully welcomed.

If anyone would like to make a donation in John’s name, they can be made to Evergreen Hospice Care in Kirkland, WA.

Thank you to all who had an impact on our father’s and brother’s life.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)

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TRAFFIC, WEATHER, TRANSIT: Wednesday watch
July 15, 2026 6:01 am
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 |   West Seattle news

6:01 AM: Good morning! It’s Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET

Today’s forecast is for more sunshine, high near 80. Sunrise was at 5:26 am today; sunset will be at 9:03 pm.

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.

STREET NOTES

*If you travel to/through Georgetown, be aware that a huge wee-hours fire response [map] may still be affecting traffic.

*Up to seven weeks of work on West Marginal Way SW – here’s the announcement.

*On Saturday (July 18), California Avenue SW will be closed to traffic between Admiral and The Junction, from 8 am on (with parking restrictions kicking in earlier), until early afternoon, for the Float Dodger 5K and West Seattle Grand Parade.

BRIDGE TRAFFIC CAMERAS

A few from the SDOT map:

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:

See trouble on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!

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VIDEO, PHOTOS: West Seattle Big Band’s 2026 Concert in the Park celebrates anniversaries
July 15, 2026 1:44 am
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 |   West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

In front of a sun-dappled field full of people, Jim Edwards celebrated two anniversaries Tuesday night – 30 years for the West Seattle Big Band, which he founded and directs, and 42 years with his wife Barbara.

He even dedicated one of the songs at the band’s annual Concert in the Park to her:

“Someone to Watch Over Me,” featuring vocalist Jenaige Lane, was one of 23 songs the band performed in their no-intermission hour-and-three-quarters set, played in a new setting – the field at Grace Church. The playlist was eclectic – classics like “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head,” featuring vocalist Sam Henry:

As Jim said, it’s all but mandatory to have something by Glenn Miller:

And from the pop-music vein, two classics by the group Chicago – an instrumental version of “25 or 6 to 4”:

And a duet on “Saturday in the Park”:

After telling an abbreviated version of the West Seattle Big Band’s origin story (eatured here a few days ago), Jim launched the band into another anniversary commemoration – “Stars and Stripes Forever” in honor of the USA’s recent 250th:

On the eclectic side was “UFO”:

And the big-band big-sound continued wth “Mack the Knife”:

Balancing that out was summer-night serenading like “Georgia on My Mind”:

Jim also noted along the way that the timing of this concert is always a little wacky – it’s sponsored by, and a prelude to, the West Seattle Grand Parade, which he coordinated for many years, now leading its safety operation. His daughter Michelle Edwards, who took over as parade coordinator several years ago, was front and center with the band tonight as its longtime keyboardist.

Barbara Edwards is integral to the parade operation too, as its judge coordinator. But the parade is still a few days away, and Tuesday night was a time to make and enjoy music in the warm summer air.

The West Seattle Big Band’s biggest mission is to raise money for school music programs, so watch for their appearance at fundraisers as well as annual events like this and the Fauntleroy Fall Festival.

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WEST SEATTLE SCENE: Low-low tide sights
July 14, 2026 9:35 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle beaches | West Seattle news | Wildlife

Thanks for the photos from this afternoon’s low-low tide! One more low-low tide tomorrow. Above, Bob Burns photographed Luna/Anchor Park, where the tide was out enough to expose the pilings; the next three are from Rainer Klett, first two colorful creatures, a sea pen and jellyfish:

And then a Killdeer among kelp camouflage:

Tomorrow’s lowest tide is out to -3.6 feet at 12:08 pm. It’s the last -3-feet-or-lower tide this summer.

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SURVEY: What do you want to tell the West Seattle Junction Association about Summer Fest 2026?
July 14, 2026 8:22 pm
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 |   West Seattle festivals | West Seattle news

(Part of the Saturday night crowd – aerial photo by Paul Weatherman)

West Seattle’s biggest party of the year is over – and it won’t be long until the planning for next year’s Summer Fest begins. First, the West Seattle Junction Association – which presents the festival (and so many other events!) – wants your feedback on this year’s festival, so it’s launched a survey – you can answer it here

One more look at our as-it-happened coverage, with video and photos, from our 24 total hours (and then some):

Day 1, first report (Friday afternoon)
Day 1, second report (Friday evening)
Day 2, first report (Saturday morning/afternoon)
Day 2, second report (Saturday afternoon/evening)
Day 3 (Sunday morning/afternoon)

P.S. The Junction Association also is offering Summer Fest 2026 merch at a discount, so if you regret not buying some, you have another chance!

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BIZNOTE: Here’s who’s moving into prime 35th/Roxbury spot
July 14, 2026 5:18 pm
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 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

Less than a year after The Missing Piece moved from 35th/Roxbury to California/Alaska, its old home has a new tenant on the way. We heard from Joey Shevelson, who says he’s opening a music school in the space, as a local franchisee of Bach to Rock. Joey, a West Seattle resident, says he’s a “lifelong musician” but has memories of music lessons that weren’t very fun. He says Bach to Rock – which teaches all ages, not just kids – is “focused on the joy of music.” He told us he doesn’t have a timeline yet as he’s just started the permit process with the city

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FOLLOWUP: ‘We’re nearing the finish line’ for SW Barton project, SDOT says
July 14, 2026 3:10 pm
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 |   West Seattle news | Westwood

A milestone for the project to rebuild eastbound SW Barton in the bus-layover zone along Roxhill Park – three and a half months after work began, it’s almost over, according to this update from project spokesperson Matt Howard:

The concrete work on SW Barton St is complete, and the roadway has fully cured. Crews are now preparing for the striping and repainting phase. Starting tomorrow, Wednesday, July 15, crews will begin removing the existing roadway striping. By Friday, July 17, they will begin laying out and applying the final striping.

During this work, traffic cones and other safety devices will remain in place to protect crews and keep the roadway clear. We’re nearing the finish line, and we truly appreciate your patience throughout this project.

Once we wrap up the remaining items on our task list, we’ll coordinate with King County Metro to restore bus service.

No timeline yet for exactly when that will happen. SDOT had originally said the road-rebuilding work would last until fall. Buses have been using SW Trenton instead of Barton in the meantime.

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COUNTDOWN: 4 reasons to watch Saturday’s West Seattle Grand Parade, 4 days away
July 14, 2026 1:00 pm
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 |   West Seattle Grand Parade | West Seattle news

(WSB file photo of Seattle Chinese Community Girls Drill Team, expected to return to the WS parade this year)

The next big event of this West Seattle summer is just four days away – Saturday (July 18) the 2026 West Seattle Grand Parade, which rolls down California Avenue SW from SW Lander in The Admiral District, presented by the West Seattle Rotary Service Foundation and supported by volunteers and sponsors. You can watch from anywhere along the route.

We sat in on organizers’ lineup review last night, led by parade coordinator Michelle Edwards, to get the toplines on what you can expect. So far, about 85 entries are registered – this is a community parade, so participants are not charged (unlike some parades) except for commercial and political entries, which pay a nominal fee. This year’s topline sponsor is STS Construction (which is also a WSB sponsor), which along with 8 other sponsors will be thanked with banners toward the parade’s start. We’ll roll out multiple parade previews in the next few days. But first, 5 reasons to watch:

#1 – GRAND MARSHAL MATT VAUGHAN: Fan of Easy Street Records and Café? Parade organizers have chosen proprietor Matt Vaughan is this year’s grand marshal. More on that in an upcoming preview!

#2 – ORVILLE RUMMEL TROPHY WINNER DENIS SAPIRO – In case you missed it, here’s our report on this honoree!

#3 – FOUR ANNOUNCING STANDS – Ever gone to the parade but felt like you wanted to know a little more about the entries than what the banners and signs might say? This year for the first time, four announcing stands are planned along the route – Brian and Christa Callanan hold down the main one at California/Alaska; the other three will be at the West Seattle Eagles (California north of SW Oregon), California/Charlestown (with the Kiwanis Club of West Seattle), and near the start of the parade route on California between Lander and Stevens (with the Admiral Neighborhood Association)

#4 – THEY’RE BACK! One of Seattle’s most revered parade participants, the Seattle Chinese Community Girls’ Drill Team, is expected to return to the West Seattle Grand Parade this year.

More parade previews to come! The parade starts just before 11 am this Saturday; streets will close to traffic at 8.

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BIZNOTE: Bastille Day at Circa – food, drink, soccer!
July 14, 2026 11:44 am
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 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle restaurants

As noted briefly in today’s event list, it’s Bastille Day, and that’s always a big occasion at Circa (2605 California SW; WSB sponsor). Today, with France playing in the FIFA Men’s World Cup semifinals, it’s even bigger. Here’s the Circa plan:

Circa Celebrates Bastille Day!

Breakfast – Crepes
Lunch – Croque Monsieur
Dinner – Bouillabaisse and Coq au Vin
Dessert – Mille-Feuille

French-Inspired Cocktail Specials

France World Cup Semi at noon with audio

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CRIME WATCH: South Delridge man charged in ‘skip-scanning’ shoplifting from local Safeway stores
July 14, 2026 11:11 am
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 |   Crime | West Seattle news

A 41-year-old South Delridge resident has pleaded not guilty to a felony charge of second-degree organized retail theft involving grocery stores. According to case documents, Mauricio Garofalo is accused of shoplifting nearly $4,000 from Safeway stores, including Admiral and Roxbury Safeway, between last December and last March, via what’s known as “skip-scanning.” The documents explain that this involves the thief filling their cart with similar item of both high and low prices – bottles of wine, for example – and using the self-checkout to only scan the cheaper items. Prosecutors say Garofalo was identified through an extensive investigation including a Safeway asset-protection specialist and copious amounts of in-store video, as well as loyalty-card numbers; he was arrested last March when she happened to be working at Roxbury Safeway and recognized a shopper as the man she’d been investigating. She called 911; Garofalo was arrested. He was not charged immediately but the investigation continued and the charge has now been filed. According to the court documents, he has no criminal record and works in the financial-services industry. According to court documents provided by the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, Garofalo was arraigned Monday before King County Superior Court Judge Nelson Lee and remains free on personal recognizance.

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WS Big Band Concert in the Park, Mode Music’s all-ages Open Mic, Fauntleroy Community Association, World Cup semifinals, much more for your Tuesday
July 14, 2026 10:00 am
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 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Colman Pool photo by Janelle Otterholt)

Here’s our list of event notes/reminders/listings for today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

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: Noon at West Seattle Golf Course (4470 35th SW; WSB sponsor); today’s speaker is Greg MacKenzie, reporting back on the Guatemala Water Project.

BEGINNING A NATURE JOURNAL: Today’s Summer Quest project is at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), noon.

WADING POOLS OPEN: With sunshine and 70+-degree weather expected, 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).

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)

WATCH THE WORLD CUP AT CIRCA: It’s Bastille Day and that’s big at Circa (2605 California SW), including a sound-up chance to watch France vs. Spain in the FIFA Men’s World Cup semifinals, with special food and drinks (including Croque Monsieur at lunch)!

WORLD CUP WATCH PARTY AT THE LIBRARY: Noon at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW) – another way to watch France vs. Spain in the FIFA Men’s World Cup semifinals!

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.

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.

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)

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)

FAUNTLEROY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION: Monthly board meeting, 6 pm, community members welcome; tonight’s agenda includes the recent crash that killed bicyclist Maridee Bonadea. Conference room at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse (9131 California SW).

STORY TIME IN THE GARDEN: 6 pm at Delridge P-Patch (5078 25th SW), story time followed by a garden activity.

PLAY ALONG IN THE PARK: 6 pm, second of four Tuesday nights during which you are invited to play with the West Seattle Community Orchestras at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW) – see our calendar listing for specific groups and times. Audience welcome too!

MODE MUSIC ALL-AGES OPEN MIC: 5 pm signups – musicians/singers of any age! – 6 pm music at the monthly open mic hosted at Tim’s (16th SW and SW 98th) in White Center by Mode Music Studios (WSB sponsor).

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 – the link explains how to RSVP.

WS BIG BAND CONCERT IN THE PARK: As noted here, the West Seattle Big Band is celebrating its 30th anniversary, and you’re invited to this year’s free WSBB Concert in the Park at 7 pm tonight at the “field” at Grace Church West Seattle (10323 28th SW) – bring your own chair/blanket, picnic dinner/snacks, family/friends/neighbors, and enjoy great music!

PAST, PRESENT, & ELSEWHERE: Album-listening sessions at Revelry Room (4547 California SW), every Tuesday night, 7-9 pm.

SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING: Weekly lessons continue at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW), 7 pm – lots of info 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 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; 7:10 pm at Admiral Pub, free, prizes. (2306 California SW).

KARAOKE AT POGGIE TAVERN: 9 pm Tuesdays, until 1:30 am, your turn to sing! (4717 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!

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CONGRATULATIONS! Southside Revolution Junior Roller Derby returns from nationals with silver
July 14, 2026 9:05 am
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS & Sports

Southside Revolution Junior Roller Derby is one of dozens of community organizations you’ll see in Saturday’s West Seattle Grand Parade – and when they roll by, you can applaud them for one of their team’s success at nationals! Here’s an update from the SSR:

(Photo by Lydia Brewer Photography)
—
Southside Revolution Junior Roller Derby’s Rebels come back from Chicago with silver medals after winning second place at the Junior Roller Derby Championships this past weekend (July 11-12). The finale game was tied in the last few seconds before 1st place Des Moines Derby Brats pulled ahead to win by just three points, 139-136.

What’s next? SSR skaters from all teams will skate in the West Seattle Grand Parade to help recruit the next generation of players for New Skater Clinics this September (Sign up link here). And tryouts for next season’s Rebels and Rivals teams are coming in late September/early October.

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TRAFFIC, WEATHER, TRANSIT: Tuesday info
July 14, 2026 6:03 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:03 AM: Good morning! It’s Tuesday, July 14, 2026.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET

Today’s forecast is for more sunshine, high in the upper 70s. Sunrise was at 5:26 am today; sunset will be at 9:03 pm.

(Monday sunset – photo by Samantha)

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.

STREET NOTES

*Up to seven weeks of work on West Marginal Way SW – here’s the announcement.

*On Saturday (July 18), California Avenue SW will be closed to traffic between Admiral and The Junction, from 8 am on (with parking restrictions kicking in earlier), until early afternoon, for the Float Dodger 5K and West Seattle Grand Parade.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

A few from the SDOT map:

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:

See trouble on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!

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Thousands of gallons of diesel from Navy ship at Vigor spill into Elliott Bay
July 13, 2026 11:45 pm
|      8 COMMENTS
 |   Environment | Seen at sea | West Seattle news

(Washington Ecology Department photo)
Cleanup work continues tonight at Vigor Shipyard on Harbor Island, where the state Department of Ecology says up to 5,000 gallons of diesel spilled into Elliott Bay.

According to Ecology’s announcement, it happened this afternoon while the USS Sampson was having fuel removed, and a hose failed, sending thousands of gallons into the bay, in an area that had been “pre-boomed” before the removal. Ecology says it’s working with the Navy, Coast Guard, and “response contractors” on the cleanup.

We happened to photograph the Everett-based Sampson (DDG 102) as it was headed toward Vigor last Monday.

(WSB photo, July 6)

Vigor has a quarter-billion-dollar contract for repairs, maintenance, and modernization work on the Sampson.

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Man dies in The Triangle
July 13, 2026 9:40 pm
|      25 COMMENTS
 |   Triangle | West Seattle news

Thanks for the tip. Police on the scene at the Fauntleroy/Alaska Shell station confirm that a man died there tonight. Just before 8:30 pm, SFD and SPD were called there for a report of “an adult male” overdosing. When they got there, they confirmed the person, found on the Alaska side of the station, had died. When we went over to ask about it, officers said they were waiting for the Medical Examiner’s Office to arrive; they’ll determine the cause of death.

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FOLLOWUP: One month after Westside Neighbors Shelter’s indefinite closure, rumors debunked
July 13, 2026 6:39 pm
|      7 COMMENTS
 |   Triangle | West Seattle news

(WSB file photo of shelter/American Legion building at 3618 SW Alaska)

More than a month has passed since the announcement that Westside Neighbors Shelter in The Triangle would close indefinitely. A timeline for its future has not yet been determined. But shelter operator Keith Hughes published an update today announcing what’s not in its future: Permanent closure. His update is on the shelter’s website. “I have had several people stop by the Hall in the last week or so to tell me that they had heard that the Westside Neighbors Shelter had closed and that the building was being sold,” Hughes wrote, recapping backstory and concluding, “… yes, the Shelter is closed right now, as it is summer. We have every intent to reopen when winter comes back around. We still have lots of concerns about to both the financial and procedural guidelines under which the Shelter will reopen, and we are working on those issues during this downtime.” West Seattle has no building-based shelter in the meantime, only the Camp Second Chance tiny-house village on Myers Way; the planned Glassyard Commons RV-and-tiny-house site has yet to start construction.

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READER REPORT: Suspected stalking
July 13, 2026 4:57 pm
|      7 COMMENTS
 |   Safety | West Seattle news

This report is from Patricia:

This person was stalking two women who were unaware at 9:15 AM this morning. (Leering and pacing their movements, Example, they stopped, he stops, they go faster, he walks faster.) They were alerted and he became agitated. He got on the bus at Admiral in California heading south. Just want folks to be aware, especially women and young girls. Please be aware of your surroundings.

She sent a photo of the person, which you can see here if you choose to click (note that he is making a lewd geature, so view at your own risk). SPD report # is 26-204268.

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BIZNOTE: Happy third anniversary, West Seattle Arcade! Here’s their gift for you
July 13, 2026 3:27 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

(2023 photo courtesy West Seattle Arcade)

Above are Elyssa Cichy and Matt Cichy, photographed in 2023 as they were opening West Seattle Arcade on Alki. Flash forward to 2026, and they’re about to celebrate the third anniversary of opening what’s now the first of their two (with Gary’s Place nearby) arcades on Alki. Tomorrow (Tuesday), they’re inviting you over to celebrate at West Seattle Arcade, and you get the gift – buy 100 credits, get 20 free! And that’s not all, Elyssa told us: “As a thank you to the community who has supported us since we opened, we’ll be offering a great deal on Play Credits as well as some treats at the prize counter!” Hours tomorrow will be 10 am to 10 pm.

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CAN YOU HELP? Center for Active Living is looking for more volunteers
July 13, 2026 2:20 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   How to help | West Seattle news

If you have time, the Center for Active Living could use some of it! Here’s the announcement we were asked to share with you:

The Center for Active Living is a vibrant community center serving adults age 55+ in West Seattle’s Alaska Junction. Through meals, wellness programs, educational opportunities, social activities, and outreach services, The Center helps older adults stay active, connected, and engaged.

Volunteering at The Center is a rewarding way to make a difference while building meaningful connections. Whether you’re serving meals, assisting in the café or thrift store, helping in the kitchen, or providing companionship through our outreach program, you’ll be part of a welcoming team dedicated to supporting older adults in our community. Many volunteers say they leave each shift feeling energized, connected, and fulfilled.

Current Volunteer Needs
-(Critical need) Kitchen Dishwasher operator: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays 12:00–2:30 p.m., Thursdays 10-12:30 plus substitute shifts.
–Dining Room Servers: Tuesdays, 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., plus substitute opportunities.
–Café Attendant: Monday mornings (8:30–11:30 a.m.) and substitute shifts. Morning shifts are 8:30–11:30 a.m.; afternoon shifts are 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
–Chef Prep Assistant: Weekday substitute opportunities helping staff chef prepare scratch-made meals.
–Thrift Store Volunteers: Customer service, cashiering, sorting donations, and pricing merchandise on various days and times.
–Westside Friends Outreach: Volunteers to provide companionship and light errands for homebound older adults throughout West Seattle.

If you’re looking for a rewarding way to give back while meeting new people and supporting your community, we’d love to hear from you. Training provided and flexible options are available.

-To apply, complete a volunteer application at wscenter.org/volunteer or email dannyp@wscenter.org for more information.

The Center is at 4217 SW Oregon in the West Seattle Junction.

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TRAFFIC ALERT: Work on West Marginal Way SW
July 13, 2026 1:17 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

The ongoing King County Wastewater Treatment District project to reduce overflows into the Duwamish River will require work “to learn about conditions below ground,” and part of it means work on and near West Marginal Way SW (areas shown on map above) starting this week, per this alert just circulated:

-Expect temporary lane closures with at least one lane open for vehicles. Crews will clean sites and reopen lanes once work is complete.

-Daytime work will start as early as (today) and continue for up to seven weeks. Work hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

-Crews will work for one night along West Marginal Way Southwest, between Southwest Spokane Street and Southwest Idaho Street. Work will start at 6 p.m. and end at 6 a.m. the next day.

-Work will take place on West Marginal Way Southwest between Chelan Avenue Southwest and Southwest Idaho Street. Crews may work at one to three sites at a time, for up to two days per site.

Overall project details are here.

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