West Seattle, Washington
22 Friday
By Macey Wurm
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
Last night’s Alki Community Council meeting had an agenda packed with public safety initiatives, briefings, and plans, along with the presentation of awards to three dedicated community members.
CRIME AND PUBLIC SAFETY: Lieutenant Pat Daly from the Southwest Precinct was invited up to give the community an overview of crime trends and plans that the department has as Alki starts the summer season. According to Daly, crime in the precinct jurisdiction – West Seattle and South Park – is down by 12% and down in Alki by 10% compared to 4% citywide. He emphasized, however, that these statistics don’t take into account what the department calls “quality of life issues” including minor traffic issues, noise ordinances, and street racing.
As for plans to address these issues in Alki, Daly recounted three initiatives. First, they are proactively closing the Don Armeni Boat Ramp earlier at night to prevent cars from showing up. The department is also emphasizing that officers carry out “directed patrols” along Alki for quality of life issues also including illegal drinking and parking violations. Lastly, the department is still working to finalize an agreement with Seattle Parks and Recreation to deploy officers on the beach on weekend nights to help “close out” the beach.
The lieutenant reiterated the importance of calling 911 about noise complaints, or at least making an online report or a phone report. Not only does this help the department to immediately address the issue, but these reports create data so that the department knows if they are “effectively and efficiently” deploying their resources.
NEW PUBLIC SAFETY TECHNOLOGY FOR LIME: Stephan Winkler with SDOT provided a presentation on their partnership with Lime eBike and scooters, including plans to update technology and an outline of plans for Alki. Through SDOT’s permit program, vendors pay fees to operate within the city. The program comes with vendor performance expectations, and as of now Lime is the only partner in the program. As of April 1, permit conditions were updated for Lime’s technology to include sidewalk-riding detection, rider-behavior detection, increased parking fines, increased insurance requirements, more than 50% seated devices, and increased equity deployment. Winkler also mentioned efforts to implement technology to detect and prevent tandem riding.
On Alki, riding is currently allowed on the shared-use path next to the beach and vehicles must be parked at corrals. This spring, a geofence was put along the business side of Alki and Harbor.
NEW PEDESTRIAN SAFETY INITIATIVE: Next up was revealing a new safety initiative by SDOT, resulting from collaboration with District 1 City Councilmember Rob Saka. The proposed concept will cost roughly $254,000. The councilmember’s office sent over a statement regarding SDOT’s plans:
We reviewed a request for speed humps/cushions and curb bulbs on Alki Ave SW from 59th Ave SW to 63rd Ave SW to reduce driver speeds and enhanced pedestrian safety near Alki Beach. We recommend installing two new speed cushions between 59th Ave SW and 61st Ave SW and adding a vehicle lane edge line. To discourage drivers form bypassing the speed cushions and enhance safety for people biking and rolling, we recommend adding a hardened bike lane buffer between 59th Ave SW and 63rd Ave SW. We also recommend adding a paint and post curb bulb at both 61st Ave SW and 62nd Ave SW to encourage slower driver speeds and improve visibility for all users.
Plans for traffic calmin on 63rd between Alki and Admiral, as reported here recently, require more data collection this summer.
ALKI EMERGENCY HUB: Amy, the new co-captain of the Alki Emergency Hub, gave a quick briefing about the organization and urged neighbors to get involved. The hub stands as a resource for community members in the event of an emergency – a potential disaster or other loss of communication – to connect with operators who are in touch with emergency management systems. They are looking for more people to get involved, and for neighbors to come together in helping one another. If you’re interested, you can learn more at seattleemergencyhubs.org.
PICKLEBALL UPDATE: Seattle Metro Pickleball Association‘s Don Gouley addressed the council with an update on the organization’s petitioning against Seattle Parks and Recreation’s plan to turn some outdoor public courts throughout the city into tennis-only – including in Alki – resulting in the loss of 36 public courts at 7 locations. SMPA has collected more than 3,200 online signatures, which were sent to city council members as well as Mayor Wilson. The city has since revised their strategy to more equally favor pickleball and tennis in the city, with an update Parks plans to release next week, according to Gouley. He noted that the sport has the power to bring generations and communities together, and that taking away these public facilities is “just not right.”
AWARDS: Possibly the most anticipated agenda item was the presentation of three volunteer awards to longtime Alki Community Council members. These awards were given to Kathy Olson, Tony Fragada, and William Winter.
Olson was granted the Enduring Impact Award to commemorate the fact that the Alki Community Council “would not have made it through some of its toughest years without her.” She has spent more than a decade with the organization, and helped to establish and sustain its 501c3 nonprofit status. Aside from her assumption of multiple board leadership roles, she is known for being welcoming at the door, baking cookies for community members, and generally acting in kindness.
The next award recipient was Tony Fragada, who was granted the Alki Lifetime Service Award. Fragada has been involved in the council since the 1990s, and was the president from 2011-2023 after a stint in the early 2000s. He contributed his “time, positive energy, manual labor, and ideas toward making Alki a better place to work and play.” Tony noted that his focus today is nature – encouraging future generation to live in respect of our ecosystems.
The final recipient was William Winter, who got the Leadership and Service Award. Winter has been serving Alki for 38 years which began with his time at the Alki Community School. He started the fundraising effort for the community bathhouse called the Friends of the Alki Bathhouse, and helped start the Alki Art Fair.
The Alki Community Council typically meets on the third Thursday of every month. The council does not schedule meetings for June, August and December, so will presumably pick back up in July.
By Anne Higuera
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
(reader photo)
Thanks for the tips and photo! A “For Rent” sign is now up in the papered windows of the ex-bakery space most recently occupied by Bel Gatto (9253 45th Ave SW), and the long-time location of The Original Bakery at the Wildwood/Endolyne crossroads.
Last year at this time, the Pilates studio in the same building, Lagom Studios (4507 SW Wildwood Place), planned to expand into the bakery area, adding group classes and saunas. In the interim, Lagom Studios took over the space to the west of their studio, adding enough Pilates equipment for group classes.
“It ended up being perfect,” Lagom owner Melina Moore told us this morning. Moore says she realized it was also enough space for her business, particularly when the permitting process and requirements for the ex-bakery went well beyond what she had expected. She withdrew her permit request in late March.
That’s where leasing agent Kirsten DeWitt came into the picture. “We’re now looking for a fresh, new tenant. It could be office space, retail, anything that would be successful.” DeWitt says the 2,000 square foot space is empty of all the restaurant equipment and freshly drywalled, with one restroom. “It’s a blank slate.” The lease will be a base rate plus triple net. “Five years would be ideal,” she says. So far she says she’s received calls from people looking for spaces for coffee shops or restaurants, but they are “trying to stay away from that,” in deference to Endolyne Joe’s next door.
The owner of Joe’s, CHOW Foods, ran Bel Gatto for less than a year, blaming newly mandated wage and payroll costs for making the cafe and bakery unprofitable when it closed in early 2025. That leaves the open question about how to make a business like a bakery pencil out there. Still, the Original Bakery closed in 2023 as a successful neighborhood staple after more than 80 years in business, when owner Bernie Alonzo retired.
Moore of Lagom is excited to continue having her business on a thriving corner, even though giving up the bakery space means she will not be able to offer saunas, as she had planned. She says things worked out as well as they could have. “It’s already connected to my original space.” Moore says the exposed brick walls and tall ceilings have a more expansive feel, which is perfect for what she offers: Pilates, Reiki, sound baths, tea ceremonies and other special events. “Clients love this space too, it’s super airy.”
The West Seattle Junction Association has just announced the music lineup for this year’s festival, which starts Friday, July 10:
FRIDAY, JULY 10
4:00 Ghost Fetish
5:00 Chico Detour
6:00 Thee Deception
7:00 Zookraught
8:00 Blackie
9:00 Caitlin & Brent w/ the Passenger String Quartet
10:00 Alien Crime SyndicateSATURDAY, JULY 11
12:00 Mode Music
12:45 School of Rock
2:00 Beautiful Freaks
3:00 Black Whales
4:00 Massy Ferguson
5:00 Butch Bastard
6:00 ToXic MaX-Q-Linity
7:00 Bog Ore
8:00 Bexley
9:00 Dark Chisme
10:00 True Loves
Again this year, there won’t be mainstage music on Sunday, as that’s the day the Farmers’ Market will be set up on California SW north of SW Oregon. You can preview any or all of the bands’ music via links on this page of the Summer Fest website.
(Photo by Bob Burns)
Here’s what’s happening today/tonight – mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you can preview events days/weeks ahead 24/7):
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE MEMORIAL DAY 5K/10K: As previewed here, 10 am run/walk on campus this morning.
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER Spring is garden time! See what’s new at the center, open today, 10 am-3 pm at north end of South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus (6000 16th SW).
STAY ‘N’ PLAY … weekly indoor playtime for preschool-age kids, 10-11:30 am at Arbor Heights Community Church (4113 SW 102nd). FYI, May 29 is the last one until fall.
FISHER SCONE TRUCK: Thanks to Margaret for the tip – it’s back at Metropolitan Market (41st/42nd/Admiral) 11:30 am-5 pm today with those famous state-fair scones.
NO STORY TIME TODAY … canceled @ Delridge Library again this week.
LOG HOUSE MUSEUM OPEN: Visit the home of West Seattle’s history, noon-4 pm. (61st SW and SW Stevens)
ENGLISH CONVERSATION CIRCLE: For adult English-language learners, 12:30 pm-2 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).
WORLD GOTH DAY AT EASY STREET RECORDS: 3-5 pm, World Goth Day is observed at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW), with an “Unhappy Hour” featuring DJ Al spinning.
TASTING ROOM AND WINE BAR: Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor) is open 5-9 pm Fridays. Stop in to sip, or buy a bottle.
COFFEEHOUSE MUSIC: At C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), the Greg Glatzer Jazz Quartet performs 6-8 pm.
DENNY DRAMA MUSICAL: Doors open at 6:30 pm at the Chief Sealth IHS Auditorium for the free presentation of Denny Drama‘s “School of Rock: The Musical.” Free admission.
MUSIC AT KENYON HALL: “Summer Night Sonata” at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW) with Abrahamson & Phelps, 7 pm doors, 7:30 pm performance.
LIVE MUSIC AT MR. B’S: The She-Shandies, 7-9 pm at Mr. B’s Mead Center (9444 Delridge Way SW), no cover, all ages.
PUN SLAM AT THE SKYLARK: It’s the periodic Pun Slam
at The Skylark. Doors at 7, puns at 8. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
SPINNING: Revelry Room is open tonight (4547 California SW), spinning tonight with DJ Buttnaked, 9 pm.
‘MAKE IT LOUD’ SKATING WITH MUSIC: Tonight, skate to music with Yellfire, So Pitted, 9 pm at Southgate Roller Rink (9646 17th SW). 21+. $20 cover/$5 skates.
If you have something to showcase on our event lists or ongoing calendar, please email what/when/where/etc. info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
As announced last month, tonight’s the official start of beach-fire season at Alki. Here are the rules published by Seattle Parks:
Starting Friday, May 22, 2026, beach fires will be permitted at designated fire pits at Alki Beach and Golden Gardens seven days a week on a first come, first served basis. Bringing your own fire pit is not allowed, and no propane fire pits/rings are allowed.
-Fires must be extinguished by 10 p.m.
-Fires allowed 7 days a week starting Friday, May 22 through Tuesday, September 7.
-Staff will be on-site to manage and assist with putting out fires at 10 p.m.
-Parking lot gates will be locked and the park will close at 10:30 p.m. for summer hours.
-Please only burn clean (natural, bare, dry cord-wood) wood and douse your fire completely before leaving.
-Light a fire ONLY in one of the installed fire containers
-Use only clean, dry firewood
-Please douse your fire with water, not sand
-Fires are not allowed during air pollution alerts; we will post sign
-Please don’t remove any materials from the park, beach or dunes
-Please dispose of trash and ashes in the containers provided for each. (SMC 18.12.260)
-Be considerate of others–please, no loud or amplified music! (SMC 18.12.170)
-Remember, no alcohol or smoking are allowed, and parks are drug-free zones.
-Beach fire rules are outlined in detail in the Seattle Municipal Code section 18.12.270 and in our Beach Fires Policy.If you see an illegal fire, call 911. For current burn ban and air quality questions, contact Puget Sound Clean Air Agency.
Fire pits at Golden Gardens and Alki are unlocked by 5:30 p.m. Please extinguish all beach fires (using water, not sand) by 10 p.m. in order to ensure that all fires are completely extinguished in ample time before the park’s closure.
6:01 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Friday, May 22, 2026.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
Mostly sunny, low-70s high. Sunrise was at 5:23 am; sunset will be at 8:49 pm.
TRANSIT TODAY
Metro buses – Regular schedules today; Sunday schedule on Memorial Day.
Washington State Ferries – Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route is on the regular three-boat schedule today, holiday schedule for Memorial Day. Check the alert page for any last-minute changes.
West Seattle Water Taxi – Now on “summer” schedule, with extra Friday/Saturday/Sunday runs including later-night schedules Fridays and Saturdays. The Water Taxi WILL sail on Memorial Day.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Here’s the westward view. Also note, maritime-opening info is available via X (ex-Twitter):
1st Avenue South Bridge (25 mph speed limit):
Delridge cameras: In addition to the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.
MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.
See trouble on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!
If you have electronics you’d like to recycle, but don’t want to wait until the next Fauntleroy Church Recycle Roundup on October 3, you have an opportunity to do it next week! Here’s the announcement:
The Southwest Library will be hosting a free device-dropoff event with PCs for People (formerly known as InterConnection) on Wednesday, May 27 from 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm. PCs for People will be on-site to accept donations of used electronic devices such as laptops, phones, desktop computers, speakers, and more. PCs for People will wipe all data from donated items, sell and/or refurbish them, and make the devices available to underserved communities.
The full list of accepted items is here.
Southwest Library is at 9010 35th SW.
(2025 WSB photo by Dave Gershgorn)
If you’re looking for a ceremonial way to observe Memorial Day on Monday, Forest Lawn in West Seattle has announced its annual ceremony:
Join us in person to honor and remember at our Annual Memorial Day Celebration (2 pm at Forest Lawn Cemetery & Funeral Home)! Pay tribute to those who have served our country with an event of music, speeches and a flag ceremony. Share stories and connect with the community. Whether you come with friends or family, there’s a warm welcome waiting for you. Don’t miss out on a meaningful way to spend the day outdoors.
Forest Lawn’s official address is 6701 30th SW but the ceremony is toward the south side of the cemetery – look for the canopy and flagpole.
By Anne Higuera
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
Short on funds and running out of time, cooperative preschool program advocates at South Seattle and other colleges are asking for help from everyone from politicians to school administrators to intervene so that the programs don’t close permanently at the end of the school year in early June. As we reported last month, changes in the statewide funding model for community colleges ruled out funding most, if not all parent education programs at community colleges, of which the coop preschools are an integral part.
“Everyone agrees that our programs are important and they should be saved/preserved. And no one is doing anything,” says Jen Giomi, South’s preschool faculty coordinator and a parent educator. In recent weeks, Giomi says more than 100 people joined a call with Governor Bob Ferguson’s office, letters have been sent to U.S. Senator Patty Murray, and a variety of meetings attended, with no commitment so far to keep the 80-year-old program open at 16 colleges statewide.
Organizers have also asked for a deferral from the State Board of Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC), which is the group that approved the funding model change. When asked this week if the board is actively considering that request, the SBCTC’s Communications Director Rachelle Alongi replied, “We are working closely with colleges to determine next steps,” though she also confirmed that parent education programs are not on the agenda for the board’s next meetings on June 3rd and 4th. “We are meeting with legislators to discuss the Parent Education Program and how we can support colleges.” She added, “Ultimately, the decision to offer or not offer this program is up to the college.”
While this is true, for colleges to offer it and use state funds to pay for it, the program must meet criteria around credentialing and workforce development that are part of the new funding model. That goes back to SBCTC, which reviews and makes a decision about which programs meet the criteria. Alongi says they have received requests from 5 schools so far. Of those, 3 have been denied and 2 are still under review. Six schools statewide already had certificate programs when the funding model change happened, but their future is not yet clear. “We’re continuing to iron this out,” said Alongi.
(WSB file photo)
Giomi says South Seattle’s Program Approval Request is one of the three that was denied. “It appears that will not be a way to save programs.” She says the reasons given for rejection focused around whether parent education would be required as a credential for jobs, other educational programs or with the state agency Department of Children, Youth, and Families. “We’ve all been told that that parent education certificates are not needed for any jobs. Almost all parent educators got their jobs through their programs. Additionally, 95% of what we explore with parents is that same content as a person studying to get an ECE [Early Childhood Education] degree. For some reason, if parents do the work, it’s not considered workforce, but anyone who studies it, is considered workforce.”
With South Seattle’s Cooperative Preschools parent education program application rejected, and a deferral unknown, finding a way to fund the program, even temporarily, is now even higher priority for organizers. A $2 million fundraising effort launched in April by parent educators to keep just the programs at South Seattle and North Seattle open next year has raised 40% of the needed funds so far. Independent fundraising could be a path forward for the preschools, since they run as individual non-profits. A key thing they will lack if they lose status as part of a college program is insurance, but that can be arranged. It’s that or the other option, as the final two weeks of the school year conclude. “There is no firm deadline, but many Co-ops are already putting plans in place to close or try to go independent,” says Giomi.
Looking ahead past the holiday weekend: The next Southwest Precinct Advisory Council meeting – the community’s chance to hear from and talk with local police – is one week from tonight. Here’s the agenda announcement:
Location: 4501 Delridge Way SW (Delridge Community Center)
Date and Time: 5/28/2026 from 5 pm to 6:30 pm
Purpose: To meet with the SW Precinct Community and discuss current needs of West Seattle and South Park. The focus will be on FIFA World Cup preparation and safety.Speakers:
Dan Nelson – SPD Captain and Head of FIFA Preparation
Cindy Wong – SPD Deputy Chief of Staff
Krista Bair – SW Precinct CaptainAgenda:
Introductions of Speakers and Community Leads – Matt Brown and Jennifer Satterwhite
Precinct Updates – Captain Bair
Overview of the Role of the Deputy Chief of Staff – Cindy Wong
FIFA Preparation – Captain Nelson
Community Feedback and Needs – SW Community Leads
Open Q&A – Facilitated by Jennifer Satterwhite
The advisory council has community leads but otherwise consists of everyone who shows up.
By Macey Wurm
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
Looking to expand your creative hobbies without the barrier of purchasing all new materials? CraftLab Seattle, opening this fall in West Seattle, will provide a space for prospective creatives to get a taste, and potentially pick up a new craft.
CraftLab has existed since 2022 as a mobile crafting service, founded in a West Seattle home, collaborating with local elementary schools, corporations, or hired for birthday and company parties. CraftLab founders Laura Duris and Kathleen Sande started the company in 2022, when Duris transitioned from the architecture field after 25 years.
“I decided that I really loved art and crafts and doing things with my hands. I noticed that a lot of other people were really enjoying doing that too during the COVID lockdown,” she said.
Currently, CraftLab is in around 12-15 afterschool programs all over Seattle – but they cater crafts to different audiences and age groups. Duris recalled throwing events ranging from creating a homemade Pokémon catapult and magic mirror, to introducing adults to the worlds of weaving, macrame, painting, and beading. Duris collaborates with her clients – getting a sense of their overall theme before suggesting a few craft ideas.
The new space at 4411 California SW brings to fruition Duris’s longtime desire to create a community hub for crafting. Now not only will she be continuing with mobile services, but offering in-house classes for adults, children, and families. Duris plans to have a year-round schedule, with 2-3 workshops offered per week. Initially, she wants to teach the majority of these, but plans to bring in guests and local artists depending on the activity.
“One of the things I really love to do is teach… and see people’s faces light up when they realize they can do something that they didn’t know they could do.”
Duris hopes CraftLab will be open to the public around September 15. As for any initial events planned, she mentioned wanting to teach a weaving class – where attendees make their own loom and weave – and is especially drawn toward jelly printing and linoleum printing. Recently, she attended Seattle’s Zero Landfill event, where she picked up plenty of leather scraps with which she is planning a leather wallet-making class.
CraftLab mainly sources materials secondhand – accepting donations, upcycling, and thrifting “as much as possible” depending on the craft. Duris plans to host community garage sales out of the new space– selling some donations to keep raising money for after school programs.
Until CraftLab moves into its new home in West Seattle, the company will be hosting its youth summer camp out of their current location in the International District. Crafters are invited to explore their creativity there in anticipation of the West Seattle based crafting hub opening in the fall.
(Low tide even brought out bunnies at Lincoln Park. Photo by Erin Jackson)
Here are the rest of our highlights for today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you’ll find even more – thanks to everyone who sends events for us to share!):
(Added plant-sale photo courtesy Hope School)
HOPE SCHOOL GARDEN CLUB PLANT SALE: As previewed last night, come buy plants until 4 pm today at the Hope School North Campus (4100 SW Genesee).
FREE PLAYSPACE: Church of the Nazarene‘s free drop-in space is open until noon. (42nd SW and SW Juneau)
THURSDAY KAYAK CLUB: 10 am with Alki Kayak Tours at Seacrest (1660 Harbor SW) – details here if you want to set a reminder to join up next week!
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: Whether you’re planting or planning – the center is open Thursdays-Saturdays 10 am-3 pm – north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus.
PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: 10:30 am at West Seattle (Admiral) Library (2306 42nd SW).
TODDLER STORY TIME: 10:30 am at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW).
OUTSMART THE SCAMMERS: Free 10:30 am presentation at The Kenney (7125 Fauntleroy Way SW).
UNDERSTANDING POTS: Online health information for patients and families, with Dr. Megan Taylor, ND, FABNG, from Neighborhood Naturopathic (WSB sponsor), 12:30 pm live lunch-and-learn – here’s how to get the link.
WEST SEATTLE UKULELE PLAYERS: From newbie to pro, all levels welcome at this weekly 1 pm gathering. Email westseattleukuleleplayerswsup@gmail.com to see where they’re playing today. (Even if you just want to know so you can go listen!) Often C & P Coffee, we’re told (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor)
LOW-LOW TIDE: Not mega-low but still a good day for sights on the beach, -2.0 feet at 3:11 pm.
DROP-IN CHESS: For young players, 4 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).
HPCS FOOD-TRUCK VISIT: First of two Thursday night events at HPCS this week – every Thursday, 4-8 pm, Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) gets a food-truck visit. Tonight it’s Soul Fusion.
WINE TASTING WITH CLARK: Another regular Thursday event at HPCS, 5-7:30 pm, with a special guest tonight – info here.
HELP HARVEST FOOD: Puget Ridge Edible Park (18th/Brandon) needs volunteers to help harvest fresh food that will be donated to food banks (and you can take some home too). Just be there 5-7 pm!
WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Open 5-8 pm for your tool-borrowing needs. (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center)
VISCON CELLARS: This West Seattle winery’s friendly tasting room/wine bar is open Thursdays, 5-9 pm (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor), for wine by the glass or bottle!
RAT CITY ART WALK: South Delridge and White Center venues are participating in the monthly extravaganza, most starting at 5 pm. See the list and map here.
BOOK SWAP WITH WINE: The theme is “New Beginnings: at tonight’s Paper Boat Booksellers (4522 California SW; WSB sponsor) monthly book swap, 5:30-7 pm – free to swap, optional $10 wine pours with West Seattle’s own Darby Winery in the house.
SOUTH PARK TINY-HOUSE VILLAGE MEETING: LIHI is holding a community meeting at South Park Community Center (8319 8th Ave. S.) at 5:30 pm tonight to present information and answer questions about the planned 90-tiny-house village in SP to be called Cloverleaf Village.
POKEMON LEAGUE: 6 pm Thursdays at Fourth Emerald Games (4517 California SW, upstairs) – bring your own console.
WESTIES RUN CLUB: 6 pm, starting from Good Society (California SW and SW Lander), you’re welcome to join the Westies Run Club‘s Thursday night community run!
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Or – you can walk! Meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fontanelle for tonight’s group walk – details in our calendar listing.
DUSTY THURSDAYS AT TIM’S: 6-9 pm, The Dusty 45s preceded by The Evanstones, outdoors, all ages, no cover, donations accepted for the musicians. (16th SW and SW 98th, White Center)
ALKI COMMUNITY COUNCIL: Three longtime leaders will be honored during tonight’s 7 pm ACC meeting at Alki UCC (6115 SW Hinds) – all welcome.
TRIVIA AT ADMIRAL PUB: 7:10 pm at Admiral Pub (2306 California SW).
CONSCIOUS CONNECTIONS: The world doesn’t have to be quite so lonely. See for yourself at 7:15 pm at Revitalize Spa (8142 15th Avenue SW).
WHITE CENTER CELEBRATION: Toward the end of the Art Walk, King County will gather people at 16th/98th to celebrate new lighting and traffic improvements, all welcome.
TRIVIA AT THE VOID: One of the newest West Seattle trivia nights! 7:30 pm, with prizes, at The Void (5048 California SW).
AT REVELRY ROOM: Tonight’s musical event at Revelry Room (4547 California SW) features DJ B Max starting at 8 pm. 21+.
Are you planning an event that should be on our calendar and in our daily preview lists? Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
You’re invited to start the holiday weekend early with the South Seattle College Memorial Day 5K/10K Run & Walk, tomorrow morning. Here’s the announcement:
Friday, May 22, 2026, at 10:00 AM
Location: South Seattle College’s West Seattle Campus at 6000 16th Ave SW. On-campus parking will be free for this event. Visit our campus map for additional details. Participants will meet at the flagpole in front of the RSB Building (near the “Visitor Parking Only” lot on the map).
The Veterans Student Center and Veterans Student Services invite the community to participate in their annual (and free) Memorial Day 5K/10K Run & Walk.
Memorial Day is a time to reflect, remember, and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to the United States. This event offers students, faculty, staff, veterans, and community members an opportunity to come together in support and remembrance.
Participants of all fitness levels are welcome, whether you are a veteran, have a personal connection to military service, or simply wish to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
T-shirts (while supplies last), refreshments, and light snacks will be provided.
Who Can Attend:
Open to students, staff, faculty, and the general public. This is a free event!Registration:
Please RSVP to Paul.vonNahme@Seattlecolleges.edu to reserve your spot and receive additional information.
6:02 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Thursday, May 21, 2026.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
Mostly sunny, low-70s high. Sunrise was at 5:24 am; sunset will be at 8:47 pm.
TRANSIT TODAY
Metro buses – Regular schedules.
Washington State Ferries – Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route is on the regular three-boat schedule. Check the alert page for any last-minute changes.
West Seattle Water Taxi – Now on “summer” schedule, with extra Friday/Saturday/Sunday runs including later-night schedules Fridays and Saturdays.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Here’s the westward view. Also note, maritime-opening info is available via X (ex-Twitter):
1st Avenue South Bridge (25 mph speed limit):
Delridge cameras: In addition to the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.
MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.
See trouble on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!
(WSF file photo)
After a nine-month trial, Washington State Ferries‘ revised pet policy is about to be finalized. WSF announced the details and timeline today:
Updated pet policy
Just ahead of the holiday weekend, WSF will begin a six-week education and transition period to help people learn the new rules before they take effect on July 1. By that date, onboard signs will be installed showing where pets are allowed and not allowed. Pet waste stations also will be added, as owners are responsible for cleaning up after their animals.
Under the updated policy, pets are allowed in three areas:
-On vehicle decks
-In outdoor passenger areas
-In marked areas inside cabins on the opposite end from the galleyPets are not allowed in the galley or on passenger seating and tables. They also cannot stay inside the cabin on the galley end of the vessel. Pet owners may pass through this restricted area but must take the most direct route and not stop.
If a pet is not under control or is not cleaned up after, a crew member may ask the owner to move the pet to the vehicle deck or an outdoor area. Service animals are allowed in all areas, as required by law. Livestock must stay in proper enclosures at all times.
“Our updated pet policy builds on a trial that began last summer, when pets were allowed in most passenger areas except galleys and on indoor seats,” said WSDOT Deputy Secretary for WSF Steve Nevey. “We heard from employees and customers. Some supported the trial, while others had concerns about cleanliness, safety and enforcement. This updated policy strikes a balance by allowing pets in certain areas while addressing those concerns.”
Got questions? The systemwide online community meetings next Tuesday would be a good time to ask.
Two theft reports in West Seattle Crime Watch:
STOLEN CLUSTER MAILBOX: Amy reports this happened Monday night: “Our cluster mailbox was ripped off its base and stolen. It was at the corner of Puget Way SW and West Marginal Way SW. I don’t know if any mail got stolen. Hopefully this is not part of a crime wave … We’ve contacted the postal inspector and gotten a case number.”
GAS THEFT: Nevin reports gas-tank drilling for fuel theft in the 3300 block of Admiral Way. Two vehicles were hit early Monday: “Thieves used an 11/16 drill bit.”
(Photo courtesy Hope School)
Need plants? You can help the Hope School Garden Club grow by shopping at their plant sale tomorrow (Thursday, May 21). Hope’s Sally Heit explains, “I and a teacher, Ms. Visser, have been leading a garden club after school once week (Thursdays) and teaching students from 14 2nd grade to middle school about seeds, planting techniques, water conservation (we have a rain barrel), worm composting (we have a worm bin) and planting seeds (we have a greenhouse) and so many other fun things. We did our first sale last year, so this will be our second sale which we will host on May 21st for our Grandparent and Special Person school event, as well as the West Seattle community.” The sale will run 9 am to 4 pm Thursday on the patio of Hope’s north campus (4100 SW Genesee), with “assorted veggie starts and flowers.” Proceeds will ” support the purchase of supplies for the club, activities, tools and the purchase of a raised bed container.” Adult volunteers will handle the sales until 11:30 am, then students will take over (it’s an early-dismissal day for Hope).
One more set of honors to tell you about. From the Alki Community Council:
A very special Alki Community Council meeting is coming up Thursday.
Three exceptional leaders who are all currently involved with their community will be honored.
Will Winter, current board trustee and past ACC president, Tony Fragada, current board trustee and past ACC president, and Kathy Olson, past ACC secretary/treasurer, will be honored.
Collective contributions range from helping to design the Alki Trail, helping to launch the Alki Art Fair and keep it going, launching Alki Emergency Preparedness, and keeping the ACC operating to get us to where we are today.
This will become a yearly tradition. We hope you all can join us!
Lots of other big items on the agenda too – see it here. All are welcome at the meeting, which starts at 7 pm Thursday at Alki UCC (6115 SW Hinds).
By Anne Higuera
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
The West Seattle Chamber of Commerce feted 2026’s Westside Awards recipients early this morning in a bustling banquet room. While each one has a different story and mission, they share a core value. “They are not just award winners,” said Chamber Board Secretary Jordan Crawley. “They are examples of what happens when people care deeply about their work and their community around them.”
That makes it no surprise that the dozens of nominees for the Westside Awards come from not just chamber members, but the larger community. Annually, the awards honor an established business, an emerging business, a not-for-profit organization, and an individual, the Westsider of the Year, all chosen from nominations detailing how they make a difference in West Seattle.
This year’s awards, presented by Nucor Steel Seattle (WSB sponsor) and a dozen-plus sponsors, were held at the The Hall at Fauntleroy, with colorful awards in the shape of a cresting wave created by Jen Austin with Green Fern Studio.
Chamber Executive Director Rachel Porter set the stage by pointing to West Seattle’s importance within the city – the oldest neighborhood, with 1/5 of the city population living on the peninsula — and chamber members within the context of the larger business landscape, where small businesses provide half of American jobs. “The work of building a community is too important to do alone,” she said. “You make West Seattle what it is.”
Next, it was award time. Chamber Vice Board Chair and emcee Brian Callanan provided introductions, along with a video featuring the award winner, followed by a few words from those accepting the awards.
The Center for Active Living was up first, with its Not-For-Profit of the Year award, and District 1 Councilmember Rob Saka introduced the video, mentioning funds he helped secure in the last round of budgeting to support senior centers citywide. “They do terrific work,” Saka said. “The center has been truly a cornerstone of this West Seattle community for decades.”
The center’s executive director Amy Lee Derenthal was featured in the video, talking about the ways The Center for Active Living, formerly the Senior Center of West Seattle, is working to make sure older community members don’t feel alone where they live. “Isolation is super real. … but we have something we can do about it here at The Center.” That includes more than 40 weekly classes, meals at Margie’s Cafe and special events. “It shows all the work the board and staff has done.”
Board Chair Kristine Milkovich accepted the award for the board and staff. “On behalf of the center, we are so grateful,“ she said. “I’m 55 years old and I’m the target audience. It doesn’t start at 85 to 90 or 100. It starts today.”
Fourth Emerald Games, which Callanan correctly guessed is a reference to the Shadow the Hedgehog game, opened in 2025 above Rush Hour (4517 California Ave SW, Suite D). A “retro video game lounge,” Fourth Emerald is place to buy, trade and play a wide variety of games in lounge areas, along with an event calendar that includes competitions.
In accepting the award, Joshua and Tiara Silas said they have felt warmly welcomed. “One way I always found to connect with people was through video games,” said Joshua. “West Seattle responded in kind.” He said the enthusiasm has been gratifying, and he sees Fourth Emerald filling a need in the community. “One of the hardest things to get now, and that’s a good time … a novel experience. Thanks to the best side of Seattle.”
The Westsider of the Year for 2026 is Jessica Pierce. If you don’t know her name right off, you likely do know West Seattle Junction FC and West Seattle Rhodies FC, the two semi-professional club soccer teams that call Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex their home pitch, thanks to team founder Pierce. “Two teams in two years,” Callanan exclaimed. “Amazing! She believes in professional soccer.”
In accepting the award, Pierce had news. “The Rhodies are # 1 in the entire country right now.” The loudest applause of the event followed. She also had enticements. “They play again this Sunday. They play the Ballard FC team, Salmon Bay. I hope that you can help join and break our attendance record. It was 1,600 last year.” Nino Cantu has a capacity of 3,500. “We have Ben with Viscon [Cellars] pouring wine, the (DubSea) Fish Sticks food truck. If you don’t love soccer, you will.” Pierce also might get an attendance boost from some free tickets being given out through the West Seattle/Fauntleroy YMCA (WSB sponsor) and West Seattle Food Bank. “I wanted to make sure that anyone can walk into our stadium on a Sunday afternoon.”
In the video, Pierce said she is grateful for the honor and the support. “We’re very fortunate to be in a community that embraces us. So many key people through the community; the connections have been incredible.” Pierce said she loves to sit in the stands, “and turn my head side to side, seeing my new friends and family.” Rhodies FC games run through the end of June, while Junction FC goes through the middle of July. “West Seattle can have its own little mini-FIFA,” Pierce smiled.
The final award of the morning went to Business of the Year West Seattle Bowl. Co-owner Jeff Swanson couldn’t resist the dad joke, despite the early hour. “We were bowled over,” he laughed. Swanson accepted the award on behalf of himself and the other two owners, Mike Gubsch and Andy Carl. Swanson has been there for 27 years, which is still just a fraction of the bowling alley’s history, which started in 1948. “We’re one of only two centers left in Seattle city limits,” he said. “There used to be 50. We continue to be independently owned. We’d like to thank the community for supporting us.”
Swanson says their family-friendly approach (offering birthday parties, fundraisers, and other celebrations) plus making the alley a “second home” to league bowlers has been a key to their continued success, along with a number of long-term employees. But he also says the sport provides a unique opportunity in a busy world. “Bowling is face-to-face, in person, no phone or distractions. You experience memories with family and friends right there.”
Swanson recounted that the West Seattle Bowl owners branched out last year to purchase Secoma Lanes in Federal Way when it went up for sale (as we reported here), noting that it could have been lost to redevelopment. Swanson says they’re encouraging the next generation of bowlers to get involved by participating in the Kids Bowl Free program again this summer, good for 2 free games a day for kids 17 and younger.
The West Seattle Chamber of Commerce started their Business of the Year award in 2007, added the Westsider of the Year in 2010 and the other two awards in 2011. Past winners are listed on the chamber’s website.
Story by Jason Grotelueschen
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
The Alki Masonic Lodge held their 47th annual School Awards Night on Monday, and 16 juniors from Chief Sealth International High School and West Seattle High School were honored for their achievements.
Each year, the lodge’s Education Council works with school counselors from WSHS and CSIHS to collect nominations for outstanding junior-class members from each school, as part of the Freemasons’ mission “to recognize and thus encourage participation in public-school education,” as its parent organization “has long supported the public-school system as one of the basic necessities in maintaining the American ideal of democracy.” Selection criteria for the award winners includes a holistic review beyond GPA, emphasizing character, leadership, community service, dedication to athletics/arts, and personal integrity.
The 2026 award winners are, from Sealth:
And from West Seattle:
All 16 students selected for 2026 awards were actually in attendance on Monday, which lodge leaders noted was a rare occurrence due to schedules, and they commended students and their families for making the time. Here’s the whole group, pictured after the ceremony:
Photo by Jason Grotelueschen:
Front Row: Takumi Momma, Phillip Nguyen, James DiPaolo, Brandon Hu, Ada Rutman, Stella Springwalter, Maninte Teshome, Katherine Ackers
Back Row: Jamesia Henderson, Nia King, Christiano Solis, Sofia Bertelli, Keira Collins, Brigham Stowell, Octavio Sanchez Seger, Kazune Hansell
Students on Monday night were presented with certificates and monetary gifts, and faculty members in attendance from each school were given an updated “perpetual plaque” containing names of annual honorees. Eight students from each school were selected, with two students from each school receiving special recognition as “top students.”
Martin Monk was emcee for the evening, and he noted that he was also recipient of one of the lodge’s student awards in 1979 which was the very first year of the 47-year-old program. He added that 2026 marks the group’s 120th year in West Seattle – founded in 1906 on California Avenue in the Admiral District, and moved in 1952 to the current building on 40th/Edmunds. The lodge’s leader, Worshipful Master Michael Riley, also provided remarks for attendees, thanking students and families for their dedication and hard work.
Pictured above (photo by WSB’s Jason Grotelueschen) from left to right are, from WSHS, assistant principal Tia Yarbrough and school counselor Christine Nutters, lodge leader Michael Riley and (at the podium) Martin Monk, and Chief Sealth school counselor Krista Rillo.
Why does the group honor juniors each year, in particular? Lodge leaders joked that “seniors already get lots of attention” and said that the organization has historically recognized that the junior year is particularly crucial for high schoolers, and thus is the ideal time to recognize high achievement and excellence.
Following the ceremony in the lodge’s upstairs room, attendees and their families enjoyed sandwiches and refreshments downstairs, courtesy of the lodge.
Four and a half months after announcing the new home of Thunder Road Guitars and co-housed The Bass Shop (both WSB sponsors), TRG proprietor Frank Gross has revealed the opening date – and he’s inviting you to the celebration:
We’re having a party and you’re all invited!
I am thrilled to announce the grand opening of the new Seattle Thunder Road Guitars. This new location is almost a year in the making and we are over the moon with how it has turned out. Join us for a weekend to remember and help us break in the new store the right way.
Lots of exciting details to come, so stay tuned!
Saturday June 6th & Sunday June 7th. Doors open at 10am. Store ribbon cutting at 9:45am
2611 California Ave SW
Thunder Road Guitars and The Bass Shop are currently at 6400 California SW; TRG was in The Junction and South Admiral before that. The new location was previously the home of Mud Bay, which moved kitty-corner to the northeast corner of the Admiral/California intersection.
The photo was sent by a resident at Maris (4722 Fauntleroy Way SW) showing damage done last night by what SPD says today was a fired shot and thrown rock. Here’s their summary:
At 1819 hours, witnesses heard glass breaking and then heard a gunshot in the area of 4700 block Fauntleroy Way SW, prompting several 911 calls. Officers responded and witnesses pointed out a broken second-story window of an apartment building. Officers also located a single cartridge casing and building bullet damage near the broken window. The occupant of the damaged apartment confirmed a rock had been thrown through the window but denied shots being fired. Evidence was collected and photos taken showing both a large rock and gun were used. Private video shows the suspect in the area just prior to the shot being fired and window damage.
Though the police summary does not include any descriptive information (we’re requesting the longer narrative), the resident who sent the photo describes the associated vehicle as “black, older-model Lexus.” If you have any information, the SPD incident number for this is 26-140365.
(Photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor from this week’s mega-low tides)
Here’s our Wednesday list, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar – which you can preview any time – here’s what’s happening today/tonight:
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: 10 am Wednesday walks start from 47th/Fontanelle – consider this your reminder for next week!
TODDLER READING TIME: 10:30 am at Paper Boat Booksellers (4522 California SW; WSB sponsor).
WESTSIDE SCHOOL ONLINE INFO SESSION: Want to know more about Westside School (WSB sponsor)? Connect at 11:15 am – here’s how.
MEET BUNNIES AT THE CENTER: 1-3 pm, Special Bunny brings rescue rabbits to the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon), all welcome to meet them.
PLAY AMERICAN MAH JONGG: 2-4 pm, join players at Missing Piece (4707 California SW).
LOW-LOW TIDE: 2:17 pm, out to -3.1 feet.
FREE MOVIE AT THE LIBRARY: “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” 2:30 pm at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW).
ART WITH REC’N THE STREETS: 3-4:30 pm, free art activities at Delridge Library (5423 Delridge Way SW).
DROP-IN HOMEWORK HELP: 4-5:45 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).
ROCK BAND GAMING AT MR. B’S MEAD CENTER: 5-10 pm, weekly gaming event in South Delridge! (9444 Delridge Way SW)
FIX-IT WORKSHOP: The free (donations appreciated), 5:30-7:30 pm workshop is back at West Seattle Tool Library (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center), and the library is open for borrowing.
CHIEF SEALTH IHS PTSA: Find out what’s up at the school! 6 pm, High Point Community Center (6920 34th SW) or online, details in our calendar listing.
WEST SEATTLE URBANISM: Discuss our city’s growth, present and future, at the weekly 6 pm meetup at Great American Diner/Bar (4752 California SW).
WEDNESDAY NIGHT RUN: Join the weekly 6:15 pm group run with West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) tonight – all welcome, all paces!
HUM-IN PROTEST: Tried [rotesting via sound vibration? Gather 6:30-7 pm Wednesdays at Junction Plaza Park (42nd SW and SW Alaska).
LIVE MUSIC AT THE LOCOL: 6:30 pm. 21+. Rotating performer lineup. (7902 35th SW)
MAD CRAFTY: Bring your project to Revelry Room (4547 California SW), 7-9 pm.
LISTENING PARTY AT EASY STREET: Hear Kurt Vile‘s new music early, free, all ages. 7 pm. (4559 California SW)
MUSIC BINGO: Weekly music bingo at at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7 pm.
PIANO NIGHT AT OTTER ON THE ROCKS: All requests! 7 pm. (2820 SW Admiral Way)
TRIVIA x 4: Four West Seattle trivia venues – Seaside Grill (2820 Alki SW) now has 7 pm trivia on Wednesdays … Larry’s Tavern (3405 California SW) has Wednesday trivia at 7:30 pm … Quiz Night at 8 pm at Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW) … And trivia starts at 8:30 pm at Talarico’s (4718 California SW).
SKYLARK OPEN MIC: West Seattle’s longest-running open-mic night! 7:30 pm signups for the weekly event at The Skylark. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
SWING IT! Swing dancing and live music at 8:15 pm at South Park Hall (1253 S. Cloverdale).
KARAOKE AT ADMIRAL PUB: Sing at the pub starting at 9. (2306 California SW)
Planning something that’s open to community participation/observation? Please send us info so we can add it to West Seattle’s only comprehensive event calendar! westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
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