West Seattle, Washington
11 Tuesday
(SEA photo of members at West Seattle Farmers Market yesterday)
By Anne Higuera
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
You may have wondered about all the people in red shirts. Yesterday it was leafleting at the West Seattle and Capitol Hill farmers’ markets, and tomorrow it’s back to the bargaining table for members of the Seattle Education Association (SEA), as the teachers’ union continues negotiations with Seattle Public Schools ahead of their contract expiration on August 31st.
SEA and SPS started the bargaining process in late June. Just a couple of weeks later, the SPS board had a public hearing on the proposed 2026-27 district budget. At $1.34 billion, it includes cuts that aim to both balance the budget and shore up the district’s reserve funds, which had been projected to be depleted next year. Even though the budget is not yet approved, it is top of mind. “More than anything, we’re bargaining against SPS’ budget challenges and against the calendar,” said SEA Lead Bargainer Davina Diaz in a community update on SEA’s website last week. “SEA has put on the table all 18 of our “small” issues, called that because we believe they’re less expensive and easier to reach agreement on. So far we have reached agreement on two of those.”
(SEA photo)
The teachers’ union has been working under a 3-year contract negotiated in 2022, which was extended for 1 year. The 2022 contract was only reached after a strike that delayed the start of school for the district’s 50,000 students for one week. SEA and SPS have met 14 times already, with another 6 dates set, but SEA has asked for more dates to be added. They have a list of 57 issues to resolve, from class sizes and compensation to professional development and supports for students. “We’re committed to winning more time for supporting students in our days, safer schools, and respectful pay,” said Diaz. SEA’s bargaining team includes two dozen educators, including 3 from West Seattle schools—one each from Sanislo Elementary, Lafayette Elementary and West Seattle High School.
This all comes as SPS’s new Superintendent Ben Shuldiner is finishing his first 6 months on the job. SPS has not yet replied to a request for comment on the negotiations, but Shuldiner’s introduction to the new budget is clearly focused on the bottom line, including maintaining an adequate reserve. “A negative fund balance means the district enters binding conditions, potentially losing local control over how we spend money and make decisions for our students. We cannot let that happen, and that is what compels us to make difficult choices now, in the year ahead, and every following year until we have turned this around,” he wrote. “We have many hard choices ahead. We will address those head on, and we will do it together.”
“We’re doing everything we can to reach an agreement,” SEA spokesperson Julie Popper told WSB this afternoon. They’re also ready for anything, as evidenced by Picket Captain training listed on their website schedule for SEA members later this month. “We’re preparing just in case, but nobody wants to go on strike.”
Would creating a permit program for RV dwellers – with policies and rules to follow to get/keep one – help reduce their prevalence on Seattle streets and get them into shelter/housing? That’s at the heart of a proposal that will be presented to the City Council Public Safety Committee tomorrow (9:30 am Tuesday, August 11). It’s titled the Vehicle Resident Assistance Program. It would have six components – a major one deals with parking rules, and what a special permit would enable eligible RV residents to do:
The proposal is from northwest Seattle Councilmember Dan Strauss, who focused on the “pathway to housing” aspects of the package in this announcement.If you’re wondering who would enforce the rules:
See the full slide deck for tomorrow’s meeting here. This won’t be voted on – it’s just a briefing/discussion; the committee might vote next month. Tomorrow’s agenda, meantime, explains how to watch and/or comment; it also includes links to the draft legislation that would comprise this package of proposals.
If you’re interested in evening whale-watching, here’s your opportunity – Kersti Muul says transient orcas that have been behaving unusually today, even going up toward the Ballard Locks, are currently southbound, passing Constellation Park.
Whether you call it a People Street or a Pedestrian Street, the little section of 18th SW east of Delridge, between two city-owned parcels destined for parkhood, is the site of an SDOT “community design charrette” right now. We stopped by to verify it’s a drop-in event, and indeed it is – no speeches or presentations, just a chance to get creative:
Kids are welcome to be creative too:
Here’s the timeline:
As for this event’s timeline – SDOT reps will be there until 6:30.
This is the fourth year that the nonprofit 1World1Sky is giving away hundreds of backpacks filled with school supplies to local kids who need them – and it’s happening during a free celebration. This year, it’s in South Park – here’s the announcement we were asked to share with you:
1World1Sky is excited to host its 4th annual “Backpack for Kids: Summer Bash” on Friday, August 14, from 3:00–6:00 PM at South Park Community Center.
(2023 photo courtesy 1World1Sky)
The Back-to-School celebration will feature a giveaway of more than 400 backpacks filled with essential school supplies, including supplies for middle and high school students. Families can also enjoy an afternoon of BBQ provided by the Seattle Police Department, games, inflatables, a live DJ, a snow-cone truck, and more!
The event is made possible through the generous support of the Seattle Police Department (SPD), GHB Windows, Operation Engage, and other valued community partners and donors.
Students and families from kindergarten through high school are invited to join us as we celebrate the end of summer and kick off a new school year with fun, community, and support!
The South Park Community Center is at 8319 8th Ave. S.
In addition to the upcoming West Seattle “low bridge” repair closure, WSDOT has just announced the northbound First Avenue South Bridge will close the next two weekends:
All northbound State Route 99 lanes will close across the First Avenue South Bridge in Seattle from 5 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 to 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, and again from 5 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 22 to 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23, for maintenance.
The following ramps will also close for the duration of the closure:
-The First Avenue South on-ramp to northbound State Route 509.
-The Occidental Avenue South on-ramp to northbound SR 509.
-The South Holden Street on-ramp to northbound SR 99.
-Northbound SR 99 off-ramp to South Michigan Street.
-Northbound SR 509/SR 99 traffic will exit at South Cloverdale Street and follow a signed detour during the weekend closures.Washington State Department of Transportation bridge maintenance crews will make bridge deck repairs during the weekend closure.
The second weekend will overlap with SDOT’s closure of the West Seattle “low bridge” Saturday, August 22, to early Monday, August 24. WSDOT has been repairing and replacing panels on the NB bridge deck since cracks were found back in February.
As reported here early this morning, our area’s first homicide victim in more than a year ad a half was a 28-year-old man shot in High Point; our area’s previous homicide victim was a 15-year-old boy shot in High Point. Between those two deadly shootings, there have been not only shootings with physical injuries, but also incidents with damage and/or close calls that have terrified residents. Even before today’s murder, a community event was planned in High Point next week to address gun violence, “It Takes a Village,” hosted by DNDA in collaboration with other organizations – here’s the announcement they sent us today:
It Takes a Village will occur August 18th, 5:00-7:30 pm, at Neighborhood House in High Point.
It Takes a Village is a community seminar presented in collaboration with the Seattle Housing Authority, Seattle Police Department, and Seattle Public Schools. The event will feature a presentation by Fahima Mohamed, DNDA’s High Point Youth Coordinator, highlighting findings from surveys of local youth and parents/caregivers about the impact of gun violence in the neighborhood.
Following the presentation, representatives from participating organizations will take part in a panel discussion, providing an opportunity for community members to ask questions, share concerns, and learn about available resources and support services.
To conclude the evening on a positive note, attendees will be invited to enjoy ice cream and participate in a basketball dunk competition, helping bring the community together after a conversation on an important and challenging topic.
Neighborhood House is at 6400 Sylvan Way SW. To RSVP for this event, go here.
P.S. This is separate from the SPD-hosted “Our City, Our Safety” meeting this Wednesday (August 12), 6 pm at Delridge Community Center (4501 Delridge Way SW), but some of the same issues will likely be discussed there too.
Thanks to Pam Roth for the dahlia photo! Here’s what’s happening today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
WEST SEATTLE GLASS FLOAT HUNT, DAY 4: As noted here pre-hunt, no daily clues this year unless a float remains stubbornly unfound (and there HAVE been some clues as a result) – watch for the hand-blown floats all over West Seattle. As of midmorning today, 49 floats have been released and 30 have been found, according to the official website, which shows status when floats are found (provided the finder has used the special QR code).
SUMMER FOOD DRIVE: If you can help, the food is continuing at West Seattle Nursery (5275 California SW; WSB sponsor) – our story has the list of what is most needed.
SPRAYPARK OPEN: Daily splashing continues at the Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale), whatever the weather, 11 am-8 pm.
WADING POOLS OPEN: With sunshine and a mid-70s high temperature expected, West Seattle’s regular Monday 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 operation continues at the outdoor saltwater swimming pool on the shore at Lincoln Park – see the session schedule here. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)
CITY COUNCIL BRIEFING MEETING: The weekly 2 pm meeting for previews and briefings is happening today – here’s the agenda.
DELRIDGE TRIANGLE ‘PEDESTRIAN STREET’: 4:30-6:30 at 18th SW and Delridge Way SW, SDOT plans a “community design charrette” for concepts of how a section of 18th might work if and when converted to a “pedestrian street.”
‘LISTENING TO GRIEF’ SUPPORT GROUPS: 6:30 pm, weekly group gatherings for people going through grief – you can participate once, weekly, or occasionally. Fee. Before you go, RSVP/register here. (4034 California SW)
D&D: Long-running weekly D&D at 6:30 pm at Meeples Games (3727 California SW). All welcome, first-time players too! $5.
PRACTICE SPEAKING SPANISH: 6:30-8:30 pm, this informal group gathers at Future Primitive Brewing in White Center (9832 14th SW), all welcome – just be ready to speak Spanish while participating!
ALKI MEDITATION: Two places to get centered on Monday nights – there’s meditation at Alki UCC, doors open at 6:45, meditation at 7. (6115 SW Hinds)
MEDITATION IN FAUNTLEROY: Also, free weekly Zen sitting/meditation in the chapel at Fauntleroy UCC (9140 California SW), 7 pm-8:30 pm.
THE MOUNTAIN GOATS AT EASY STREET: 7 pm in-store performance and signing – to get in, you have to pre-order theornew album. (4559 California SW)
MONDAY NIGHT TRIVIA X 2: Two venues on our list with trivia tonight- 7 pm at The Good Society (California/Lander), $2 cash to enter … 7:30 pm with QuizFix at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW).
POOL TOURNAMENT: The Corner Pocket‘s weekly tournament, 7 pm. $10 buy-in. (4302 SW Alaska, entrance on California)
PINBALL TOURNAMENT: Register at 7, play at 7:30, at Admiral Pub (2306 California SW).
JAZZ AT THE ALLEY: Monday night listening with The Westside Jazz Trio, 8 pm at The Alley (behind 4509 California SW), 21+, no cover.
KARAOKE AT TALARICO’S: Monday night singing – karaoke at Talarico’s Pizzeria (4718 California SW).
Huge thanks to everybody who sends info for our calendar, which we update daily; if you have something to add or cancel (or update), please send the info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
Family and friends will gather Thursday as a Funeral Mass is held for Virginia Kord, and they’re sharing this remembrance now:
Virginia Ann Kord
Jan 27, 1935 — Jul 13, 2026
West SeattleVirginia Ann Kord, 91, of Seattle, passed away on July 13, 2026, a sunny day made a lot darker for her family, who cherished her presence in their lives – and every visit in her final weeks.
Virginia was born on Jan. 27, 1935, in Blackduck, Minn., the eighth of John and Elsie Trautmann’s 10 kids. In the 1940s, her family moved to Seattle, where she graduated from Franklin High School in 1953. Five years later, Virginia married Gene Kord, beginning a new life around the Northwest, including Tacoma, Federal Way, Spokane, and Oregon City before settling down with their five kids in West Seattle.
Virginia was a strong, independent woman with a voracious appetite for learning, great sense of humor, inspiring resilience – and quite a sweet tooth right up to her final hours of life. She was a hard-working mom who cared for all five kids and baked the most delicious birthday cakes. She also took up an impressive array of hobbies: oil painting, creative writing, genealogy, sewing, upholstery and – you guessed it – cake decorating.
In another era, Virginia may very well have been a CEO. Instead, she ran a tight ship around the house with the precision of a Swiss watch and the uncanny ability to find anything: socks, wallets, homework, T-shirts. Few things were ever lost for long.
There were certainly rough days, too. But she never showed it, providing strength and stability to the entire family – and dinner served at 6 p.m. sharp without fail.
When the kids grew up, Virginia accepted a job as an administrative assistant at Holy Rosary Church, where she and Gene were active members. She worked there for over a decade, adding bookkeeping and tech duties along the way, and was regaled with a retirement party that filled the hall with well-wishers.
Never one to take her foot off the gas, Virginia enjoyed traveling with Gene to places like Europe and Wyoming’s Grand Tetons, but she loved nothing more than seeing her siblings and their families in California and Minnesota – except for spending time with her grandkids, be it for ballgames, graduations, or an extra scoop of ice cream.
Her beloved Gene passed away in 2016, a pivotal point in Virginia’s life, but she embraced her new-found independence with an open mind. Virginia regularly visited The Center for Active Living, where her lifelong craving to learn was stoked once again. She participated in a current-affairs group that discussed social and political hot topics, practiced tai chi, and got her steps in while line dancing.
Volunteering also played an important role in Virginia’s life. She served as the treasurer of Holy Rosary’s Society of St. Vincent de Paul and a lector at the Pigott Chapel at Mount St. Vincent assisted living facility. Virginia was also a member of the women’s spiritual group at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, where she was appreciated or her insights during discussions about scripture.
Virginia loved meeting new people and making friends but valued her alone time, too, engrossing herself in elaborate puzzles for days, staying up to speed on technology, and reading a wide range of books to keep her mind sharp. Among her favorite reads were “Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life” by Marshall B. Rosenberg and “The Good Rain” by Timothy Egan. She also embraced mindful meditation during the pandemic, which gave her a sense of calm through a tumultuous time.
Virginia spent her last two years in assisted living facilities, endearing herself to her fellow residents and presenting a final show of strength to her family by living out her life with grace and a smile – and one last treat for her sweet tooth.
In addition to her parents, Virginia was preceded in death by her devoted husband Gene, beloved great-grandson Aiden Stubblebine, and cherished siblings John Trautmann, Jim Trautmann, Dorothy Anderson, Rita Trautmann, Rod Trautmann, Mary Margaret Stern, and Tom Trautmann. She is survived by dear siblings: Laura Jean Jacoby and Bob Trautmann; treasured children Cathy Peda (Jeff), Lori Kord Clark (Chris), Mary Ballanger (Barry), Margie McGillis (Bill), Mike Kord (Elaine Abiera); 12 wonderful grandchildren: Jordan McGillis (Cynthia Bell McGillis), Amanda Stubblebine (Andrew), Kristen Behrends (Brian), Taylor McGillis (Krissy), Kelsey Clark (Phil Samuelson), Megan Antush (Alex), Alex Ballanger (Kailey Silverstein), Marissa McGilllis, Molly Ballanger, Will McGillis (Sarah Lane), Ben Kord and Gabby McGillis; and 7 adorable great-grandchildren: Brooklyn and Addison Behrends, Reggie, Blair and George McGillis, Piper McGillis and Jesse Ballanger.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026 at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 7100 35th Ave. SW, Seattle. If you can’t attend, log on to www.olgseattle.org/livestreaming-at-olg for the livestream. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (www.holyrosaryseattle.org/stvincent) or the Center for Active Living (www.wscenter.org/get-involved/donate).
Please share your condolences and memories of Virginia in her guestbook at: www.emmickfunerals.com/obituaries/virginia-kord
Arrangements Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home of West Seattle
(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)
6:01 AM: Good morning. It’s Monday, August 10, 2026.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
The forecast projects sunshine and a high around 75. Sunrise was at 5:58 am today; sunset will be at 8:29 pm.
TRANSIT TODAY
Metro buses – Regular weekday schedule, but a stop closure downtown continuing today affects multiple West Seattle-bound buses – the southbound 3rd/Columbia stop, for Routes 21 56, 57, and 125, plus RapidRide C and H. Details here.
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. Also note, maritime-opening info is available via X (ex-Twitter):
1st Avenue South Bridge:
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!
ORIGINAL REPORT, 12:26 AM: Police are investigating a report that a person was shot in High Point – and was driven away before authorities arrived. The victim’s friend(s) are reported to have driven them across the eastbound bridge and stopped in SODO, where Seattle Fire is now sending a “scenes of violence” response. Dispatch says the victim’s friend said it was a “drive-by” at High Point Commons Park.
12:30 AM: The victim is reported to be getting CPR. … SFD medics are transporting the victim to Harborview.
12:48 AM: Now police are investigating a report that the victim was shot near his home.
3:06 AM: No further info so far. We hope to have an update from SPD within a few hours.
6 AM UPDATE: Police say the victim did not survive … which means this is the first Southwest Precinct-area homicide in more than a year and a half. Here’s what they just posted to SPD Blotter:
Homicide detectives are investigating a shooting that left a 28-year-old man deceased early Monday morning in the High Point neighborhood.
At 12:17 a.m., dispatch received reports of a gunshot victim being driven to the 2700 block of 1st Avenue South. Officers arrived and found a man suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest.
Officers provided aid until Seattle Fire Department medics arrived. The victim was transported to Harborview Medical Center in critical condition. Despite lifesaving efforts, he died at the hospital.
Witnesses told police the shooting occurred in the 3100 block of Southwest Graham Street. A friend then drove the victim to the 2700 block of 1st Avenue South where officers contacted him.
Detectives from the Homicide Unit will work to determine the circumstances that led up to the shooting.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Seattle Police Department Violent Crimes Tip Line at (206) 233-5000.
The last SW Precinct-area homicide before this one was also in High Point, where a 15-year-old was shot dead in December 2024.
3:59 PM: The King County Medical Examiner’s Office identifies the victim as 28-year-old Omar Z. Tebad and says he died of a gunshot wound “to the torso” suffered in a vehicle.
8:25 PM: Another chapter in the saga of the repeatedly beached boat that’s been at Constellation Park in recent days, and then was joined by another boat reportedly there as part of a plan to get Boat #1 off the rocky shore. Both were still there when we checked late this morning; then this afternoon, a commenter reported both had sailed away after taking advantage of some advice. Before we got back to the park south of Alki Point to verify that both were gone, 911 dispatched SFD and SPD boats to a report of a boat reporting trouble while towing another boat. We went to the park to check on that, but all the action is offshore and even with binoculars we can’t tell exactly what’s going on, nor have we heard an emergency-radio update yet.
8:36 PM: The SFD/SPD/USCG boats have all left, and the two boats involved have headed further south.
9:06 PM: Commenter MJ offers details.
ADDED: An anonymous reader notes the boat’s history here goes back at least two weeks:
I saw the captain of boat #1 (Far Far Away) leave the boat near Weather Watch Park on 7/26. I notified 911 because the captain was screaming and appeared in distress. 911 sent out fire and police and the captain declined help and left the boat. I let the Coast Guard and SPD know the boat was drifting all day and there was no action. It later washed up by Constellation. A little bit ago, I saw SFD pulling the boat #2, which was pulling boat #1. Boat #3 pulled up (captain appeared to be the same captain from boat #1) and they tied all three boats together and they’re currently in front of Weather Watch Park, seemingly anchored.
11:06 AM MONDAY: Thanks to everyone who has sent photos of the three boats on the beach at Weather Watch Park during this morning’s low tide – this one is from Peggy:
Next high tide peaks just before 5:30 pm.
1:52 PM: SFD has a boat out assisting them, again. … And on police radio a few minutes after we added that, an officer just told dispatch, “Looks like SFD just passed the boat off to the Coast Guard.”
We haven’t heard from The Wash Dog since their move from West Seattle to White Center six years ago, but now there’s big news: The canine-cleanliness facility has just sent word of an ownership change – here’s their announcement:
The Wash Dog, a beloved neighborhood dog grooming shop that has served Southwest Seattle since 2001, is celebrating a new chapter as second-generation owners Shawn and his wife Katie Myers take the reins of the family business.
The shop invites the community to a free open house, “Clips for Tips,” on August 18th, to meet the new owners and celebrate the transition. The event will feature hot dogs, chips, water, and complimentary tip-based dog nail trims for neighborhood pups.
The Wash Dog has been a fixture of southwest Seattle for over two decades, most recently under the ownership of Shawn’s moms. One of them recently passed and the other is taking a much-deserved retirement.
Shawn first moved to West Seattle as an adolescent in the mid-’80s. He knows the community and is happy to be contributing to it by carrying on his moms’ legacy of caring for area dogs.
“We’re so proud to carry on what my moms built here,” said Shawn Myers. “This open house is our way of saying thank you to the neighborhood and inviting everyone to be part of the next chapter.”
Event Details:
• What: Clips for Tips Open House
• When: August 18th
• Where: The Wash Dog, 10623 16th SW
• Cost: Free — hot dogs, chips, water, and tip-based nail trims
(WSB photo, June 15)
Though this is usually the quiet time in summer’s final weeks, not this year. Major events this week will include the community forum Tuesday night (August 11) on making Fauntleroy safer for bicycle riding, after two deaths in a little over two years, most recently Maridee Bonadea on Wildwood Place, uphill from the ferry dock, in June. All are invited to participate Tuesday night, 6-8 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy (south end of the historic schoolhouse, 9131 California SW). We published first word of the forum plan on July 31st; the Fauntleroy Community Association and Ms. Bonadea’s family finalized the plan a few days later. They expect elected officials and representatives of SDOT and WSDOT to be in attendance. They also have drafted a suggested message to all of the above to express support for safety improvements (find it added to our original report about the forum date).
The last major West Seattle street party of summer is now just 12 days away – the Admiral Block Party, presented by the Admiral Neighborhood Association, spans two days this year, starting with afternoon and evening live music on Friday, August 21, once the streets close for setup. And “streets” is a reference to the other way in which the Admiral Block Party has expanded – not only will the party be on California between Admiral Way and SW College, it’ll also be on College between California and 42nd. Music and outdoor dining starts at 3 pm August 21, when the focus is on acoustic sound as well as DJs; vendors and nonprofits will be in their booths starting at 10 am August 22, and the main-stage music starts that day at 11 am. You can see the latest lists of all of the above on the official Admiral Block Party webpage. WSB is the festival’s media sponsor – we’ll see you there!
That photo is from Lauren, who reoorts brown water in Admiral, as does Jennifer. No emergencies on the Seattle Public Utilities water-trouble map; it is often caused by SFD testing hydrants, but it’s always a good idea to report discolored water to SPU at 206-386-1800 – and don’t do laundry until it clears up, as the discoloration is usually sediment/rust that can leave stains.
P.S. Reminder – (corrected) Tuesday and Wednesday of this week will bring some testing related to the almost-complete Spokane Pump Station project, and that could mean discolored water in parts of Admiral – here’s the alert we’ve published.
SUNDAY 12:24 PM: The image is from Kevin Freitas, who first sounded the alarm about a hornet nest on the north side of 40th/Alaska last Wednesday. By Thursday he said he’d spoken to a Puget Sound Beekeepers Association member who indicated they’d likely “take care of it” at some point. But it’s still there, according to other readers, who also suggested a wider warning, so we’re mentioning it now.
P.S. Hornets and wasps may be worrisome but if you see or have a bee swarm, it’s not, and a PSBA member would likely be interested in relocating those.
MONDAY 12:13 PM: By multiple accounts, including OP Kevin, the nest has been killed and removed.
(Lily of the Nile, photographed by Barb Newell)
Lots of ways to spend your Sunday – here’s our highlight list for today/tonight, mostly from our West Seattle Event Calendar:
WEST SEATTLE GLASS FLOAT HUNT, DAY 3: As previewed here, no daily clues this time unless a float remains unfound – so watch for them all over West Seattle. As of right now (6:39 am), 25 floats have been released and 13 have been found, according to the official website, which shows status when floats are found (provided the finder has used the special QR code).
WEST SEATTLE RUNNING CLUB: 8:30 am, meet at Alki Statue of Liberty (61st/Alki) to run with friends old and new.
SUNDAY FUNDAY RUNDAY: The Westies Run Club is running from Upwell Coffee (4811 California SW) today, 9 am.
AMERICAN MAH JONGG: In The Junction, weekly Sunday morning games are happening at The Missing Piece (4707 California SW), 9:30 am.
WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: Now in summer produce-and-products season, 10 am-2 pm, California SW between SW Oregon and SW Alaska.
SUNDAYS IN THE ALLEY: While you’re in The Junction, check out the returning weekly summertime party behind Carmilia’s (enter through 4528 California SW)! 10 am-3 pm. Food, vendors, music.
MASTER GARDENERS CLINIC: Also in The Junction – get your gardening questions answered at the West Seattle Farmers’ Market, 10 am-2 pm.
FREE NIA CLASS: Begins at 10:15 am; first class free if you pre-register. At Inner Alchemy Studio/Sanctuary. (3618 SW Alaska)
LIBRARY CLOSURE: Today is the first day of the West Seattle (Admiral) Library‘s three-month closure for HVAC work.
SPRAYPARK SEASON: Daily splashing at the Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale), 11 am-8 pm.
WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Open today! Need a tool but don’t need/want to, or can’t, buy it? You’ll probably be able to find it at, and borrow it from, the Tool Library, open 11 am-4 pm on the northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)
WEST SEATTLE RESIST: 11:30 am-1:30 pm, weekly action in The Junction.
COLMAN POOL: Noon-7 pm, daily public sessions at the outdoor pool on the shore at Lincoln Park – see the schedule here. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)
WADING POOLS OPEN TODAY: Forecast is sunny and 70+, so these two city-run wading pools should be open, both noon-7 pm: Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW) and EC Hughes (2805 SW Holden).
READING AND BOOK SIGNING: Meet and hear from Linda Hornberg as West Seattle Nursery (5275 California SW; WSB sponsor) spotlights her and her book “Picture a Garden,” 1-2:30 pm.
WELCOME ROAD WINERY: You’re welcome Sunday afternoons at this West Seattle tasting room (with a patio!) open 2-5 pm, kids and dogs welcome. (3804 California SW; WSB sponsor)
KAKINDOBIE SCHOOL BENEFIT CONCERT: 2-5 pm at C & P Coffee, 10 musicians’ annual benefit concert for students in Sierra Leone, explained here. (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor)
CABI FALL FASHION SHOWCASE: Local Cabi stylists present this event at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse (9131 California SW), 2 pm.
‘EVERYONE PLAYS’ GAME CAFE: 2-4 pm at Mr. B’s Mead Center (9444 Delridge Way SW), all ages, no cover, bring your own game if you want. Snacks provided; beverages available for purchase.
RETURN OF DEADGRASS: 2 pm matinee show at Tim’s in White Center (98th and 16th).
‘MUSIC FOR OUR TIMES’: EUROPA Ensemble in concert, 3 pm at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church (3050 California SW).
MAKE A BOOMBOX PRINT: Summer Quest free print-making workshop at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW), 3 pm.
ICE CREAM SUNDAY WITH AURORA AVE: 4-6 pm, members of the band Aurora Ave will be at the Husky Deli (4721 California SW) ice-cream window with free mini-scoops for the first 50 people who show up that buy or have bought tickets to their upcoming show – all explained here.
BACHATA DANCING AT ALKI: Special Sunday event, 4:30 pm at Statue of Liberty Plaza. (61st SW & Alki SW
TRIBUTE SCREENING OF ‘ONCE’: 7 pm at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW), classic 2000s film “Once” to be shown – free, all ages – as tribute to the late musician Glen Hansard.
BLACK TEA AT REVELRY ROOM: 7 pm-midnight, nighttime tea service with host Jack Sanders, info and RSVP here. (4547 California SW)
UNDERGROUND TRIVIA AT CORNER POCKET: Trivia starts at 7:30 pm – free to play, and you can win prizes. (4302 SW Alaska)
LIVE JAZZ AT THE ALLEY: 8-10 pm, music to wrap up your weekend – jazz with the Triangular Jazztet at The Alley (behind 4509 California SW).
Organizing, or assisting with, an event that should be on the WSB community Event Calendar – whether one-time or recurring? Please email us the basic details – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
11:41 PM: Police are investigating another crash, this one in south Admiral. A driver is reported to have hit a building at California and Manning, and then fled the scene with at least two passengers. All were described as teenagers, one white in white clothing, another white in dark clothing, another white or Hispanic in dark clothing. A second SFD crew has been dispatched to the scene to help deal with what’s described as damage including two broken windows.
1 AM: By the time we got to the scene, the car was being towed. We did note that the address on the SFD log was not where it happened, as is sometimes the case (and that’s why we don’t usually cite exact logged addresses) – this was at the commercial building on the northeast corner of California/Manning.
11:08 PM: SPD and SFD are on their way to Delridge and Barton for a reported two-vehicle crash with one vehicle “on its roof,” according to dispatch.
11:19 PM: Delridge is blocked both ways. Above, we’ve added a screenshot from the nearest traffic cam. Officers have told dispatch they’re investigating the possibility of DUI.
11:58 PM: Police just told dispatch that they’re reopening the street because SDOT has moved the car while they’re awaiting a tow truck. The driver is in custody.
(WSB photo: Last Saturday’s flag event in advanceof Alki Beach Pride)
One week from today – on Saturday, August 15 – Alki Beach Pride returns, with a street party and more! Alki residents Stacy and Jolie Bass-Walden created Alki Beach Pride more than a decade ago to boost LGBTQIA+ visibility beyond June, and it’s been a smashing success, bigger every year, collaborating with local businesses. Even if you’re not attending, you should be aware that Alki Beach Pride is in part a street party again this year, with Alki Avenue SW closed from 7 am to 10 pm between 57th and 61st. The official festival hours are noon to 8 pm, with:
Live entertainment
Health and wellness zone
Local LGBTQ vendors
Food trucks
Social group gatherings at local participating businesses
Mew family-friendly kids’ zone
and more….
The entertainment lineup rolled out so far includes comedy, DJs, and drag – including the kings.
(WSB video, photos)
The Aztec dancers of Tlalokan were the first performers at this afternoon’s Duwamish River Festival in South Park:
This year’s festival is happening in collaboration with the South Park Summer Party (SOPASUPA) for the first time; festival events are centered at Duwamish River People’s Park (8700 Dallas Ave. S.). In the first hour, the main stage also held emcees from the Duwamish River Youth Corps, festival-presenting Duwamish River Community Coalition leader Paulina López …
… Also, Duwamish Tribe representative Kristina Pearson …
… and two city councilmembers – citywide Councilmember Dionne Foster …
… and District 1 Councilmember Rob Saka.
And the river itself is of course part of the festival, with free kayak tours offered:
The festival also includes the traditional info booths from city departments and regional environmental nonprofits:
The festival and SOPASUPA are spread across four venues – the Kids Zone, with free bouncing, is at South Park Plaza, right by the west end of the South Park Bridge.
At South Park’s main intersection a block south of there, 14th Avenue S. and S. Cloverdale, you’ll find the main SOPASUPA stage behind the businesses on the southwest corner (The Scene, Uncle Eddie’s, Loretta’s). Lucha Libre Volcanica (with Mexican-style masked wrestling) is about to get going there, and we have much more coverage to add! The festival’s on until 6 pm; SOPASUPA continues until 9. (See the performance schedule for all venues here.)
3 PM: The luchadores have just spent an hour in the ring, and battled wildly as always:
Lucha Libre has devoted fans young and old:
And plenty of moves:
If you missed the first round, get here for the second round – three more matches at 6 pm, the emcee just confirmed.
P.S. There are street closures east of 14th Ave. S. because of the festival – but there are lots where you can park and take a free shuttle – they’re listed between the maps here.
10:56 AM: Through 2 pm today, the Rotary Club of West Seattle has volunteers at KeyBank Plaza – southwest corner of California/Alaska – to accept and acknowledge musical instruments donated for Music4Life, to get new lives with students. Band- and orchestra-type instruments, and guitars, are what they’re most interested in. Details are in our preview. We stopped by a few minutes ago and learned that more than half a dozen donations already had been dropped off. And every one has a story, which they love hearing!
6:40 PM: One of today’s Rotary volunteers, Brian, says in a comment below that today’s donations totaled even more than last year!
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