West Seattle, Washington
23 Thursday
PHOTOS BY OLIVER HAMLIN FOR WSB
As the regular fall-sports season approaches the end, it’s time to celebrate those for whom this is the final season – the seniors. Last night, Chief Sealth International High School‘s girls-soccer team paid tribute to the Class of 2026 – including team support (above) as well as players (below with head coach Mike Rillo) –
Leslie Nunez Castro:
Lucinda Leviton:
Kimberly Ramirez:
Harlee Wahl:
Mariah Rillo:
Nasra:
The match was at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex against Nathan Hale.
The Seahawks led 1-0 after Nunez Castro, #4, scored early in the second half on a shot outside the box that sailed over the keeper’s head.
Then Hale scored two goals in the final five minutes to get the win.
The team’s last regular-season match is tonight at Cleveland, 5 pm.
Earlier this fall, Seattle Parks noted an owl attack in Lincoln Park. We’ve had reader reports of several around the peninsula, Lincoln Park included, over the years. But we hadn’t heard from anyone directly this year until Kevin‘s report arrived a short time ago:
Our 8 year old daughter was scratched on her head by an owl in Lincoln Park during her cross country run practice. Her grandpa exclaimed “what a hoot!” She’s just fine, though, just a little scary. It seems like it’s happened before, and the internet suggests they’re territorial at dusk. We’re going to follow up with her primary care doctor tomorrow to see if there’s anything weird about owls and diseases.
You can learn more about this owl behavior by checking out this Department of Fish and Wildlife fact sheet, choosing “Preventing Conflicts,” and scrolling down to “Dive-Bombing Owls.” As noted there, these incidents are rare.
Thanks to Bethany for tonight’s spotlight Halloween-season decorations – she’s on the hunt for “sincere pumpkin patches” and has found three celebrating the “Great Pumpkin” of “Peanuts” fame!
I’m in search of the most sincere pumpkin patch. So far I have found:
Alaska & 50th: (above)
Belvedere between Hinds and Hanford: (below)
47th between Walker and Hill (with Charlie Brown ghost!): (below)
It is fun for the wonderful neighbors who worked hard on the decorations, fellow Great Pumpkin seekers, and maybe serve as a callout to others on the peninsula who have sincere pumpkin patches I could visit!
You might recognize the third house as one where “Peanuts” is celebrated at Christmastime too!
Got decorations? Seen decorations? We’re showing photos nightly – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
(WSB photos)
Two days after the Mariners‘ postseason ended one win short of a World Series trip, their mascot was in West Seattle tonight spreading consolation cheer. The Mariner Moose visited Ounces, whose proprietor Laurel Trujillo explained, “I figured everyone needs that extra high-five and hug right now.” That’s Laurel, above, with son Asher, 7.
Much of the crowd there tonight for The Moose’s ~45-minute visit was from Asher’s school, Fairmount Park Elementary, whose PTA is getting part of the proceeds from tonight’s beverage/food sales.
By the way, the “pumpkin patch photo booth” in which Laurel, Asher, and The Moose are shown, above, is open for drop-in pics (sorry, no Moose) through month’s end. Ounces is in North Delridge at 3809 Delridge Way SW.
P.S. Mariners’ opening day next year: March 26, 2026.
(Photo by Dave Estep)
When the West Seattle High School Wildcats take the field Thursday night for the game that includes the Senior Night celebration for football, cheer, and band, it won’t be at their home field, Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex. And it won’t be against the originally scheduled opponent, either. They’re now scheduled to play O’Dea at West Seattle Stadium (4470 35th SW) at 7 pm Thursday. Thanks to parent Allison for circulating word of the changes – which also include plans for the football seniors to be recognized with a pre-game ceremony, at 6 pm, and the cheer and band seniors to be recognized at halftime. It’s not only WSHS’s senior night, it’s a “huge game” because it’s also a matchup of the top two teams in the Metro League – West Seattle is undefeated; O’Dea has only one loss, against a non-conference opponent, and this is scheduled as their Senior Night too (WS Stadium is their home field). Allison says they’re hoping to fill the stands for the Wildcats – you can buy your ticket with cash at the stadium or online in advance.
(WSB photos)
Chely Smithgall wants you to know, her Fine Baking Company shop is back open for business and offering a variety of sweet treats.
Less than a year after opening, Chely was hit by one of those crises that can knock a small business down for the count, but she’s battling back. A leg injury made it impossible for her to stand long enough to get the baking done. “I had to close my business for a month,” she laments. But then she got back to three hours a day, and now she’s expanding to five hours a day, all but one weekday afternoon, perfect timing for families going to and from nearby Gatewood Elementary (and other businesses in lower Gatewood/south Morgan Junction).
Chely hopes you’ll pop in to try (or re-try!) her cake pops, cupcakes, cookies, and more (empanadas were also on the menu when we stopped in) – she’s at 6971 California SW, open noon-5 pm Tuesdays through Fridays, 10 am-3 pm Saturdays.
2:14 PM: This arrest was just announced via SPD Blotter:
Seattle police narcotics detectives and SPD’s SWAT team arrested a 51-year-old prolific drug trafficker in West Seattle last week following a monthslong narcotics investigation stemming from a previous arrest.
Detectives started their investigation looking for a suspected drug supplier after they arrested a man in the 2600 block of Southwest Cambridge Street on July 16, for selling Fentanyl and Methamphetamine from his RV.
Their investigation into the supplier identified the man, living in SeaTac, WA. Detectives found him to be a convicted felon with extensive criminal history, including violations for selling controlled substances and many other crimes.
While surveilling him, detectives found that he frequently traveled from SeaTac, spending several hours selling narcotics in the South Park, White Center, and Westwood Village neighborhoods. His actions contribute to drug overdoses, retail theft, car prowls, and car thefts in the area, according to detectives.
SPD investigators developed probable cause to arrest him for a Violation of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act for Possession with Intent to Deliver Fentanyl.
On Oct. 15, at about 10:30 p.m., detectives surveilled the suspect as he drove with his wife and children to the shopping center in Westwood Village.
While his family shopped, he walked across the street into Roxhill Park, to sell narcotics. Almost immediately, suspected narcotic users, who appeared to be waiting for him for drugs, began approaching him.
Shortly thereafter, the SWAT team arrested the 51-year-old without incident.
Roxhill Park is less than a mile from Chief Sealth International High School. Its trails are an opportunistic location for drug users, drug dealing, and selling stolen items, providing a veil of protection from the public eye, according to narcotics detectives.
Oftentimes, the suspect would access an electric scooter from his vehicle and ride around on it, selling narcotics, making it easy for him to maneuver through the park.
During the arrest, detectives recovered:
•178.6g powdered Fentanyl
•42.2g Methamphetamine
•41.5g white powdery substance
•$291 Cash
• Drug paraphernalia, scale, packaging baggies
Police booked the suspect into the King County Jail for multiple drug crimes. His bail is set at $250,000.
Incident Number: 2025-200398
We are checking with prosecutors regarding the case’s status.
3:53 PM: The suspect, 51-year-old Antonio J. Kent, has been charged with two drug felonies and pleaded not guilty this morning. A judge rejected his request for reduced bail and he remains in the King County Jail, bail set at a quarter-million dollars. We’re reading the charging documents now and will add any additional information of note.
4 PM: Kent is described in the documents as having a record of 39 convictions, 11 of which were felonies, dating back into the ’90s and ending in 2019, for crimes including robbery, theft, assault, DUI, trespass, stolen-car possession. He also is reported to have had 54 warrants issued over the years and was labeled in a national database as a “career criminal.”
4:47 PM: We sent a photo request to the state Department of Corrections, which can provide photos to media if the person was ever in their system. The photo added above and to the right is the newest one they had, from 2016.
12:31 PM: Sent by Providence Mount St. Vincent:
A patient from Providence Mount St. Vincent’s Transitional Care Unit left the facility this morning and has not returned.
The police have been notified, and our team is on the streets doing a search – but we need your help!
His name is Kristian, 51 years old, 6’1” tall.
He is wearing hospital gown pants, a dark sweatshirt (with front zipper) and dark color beanie.
Last time he was seen, he was carrying a cane and a hospital plastic bag.
3:30 PM UPDATE: A Mount spokesperson says, “We have been recently informed that there is a warrant for his arrest. If someone sees him, they should call 911.”
(WSB video of Rep. Jayapal’s Town Hall)
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal wanted to know who was in the audience at her West Seattle town-hall meeting last night, so she began with a few questions for the full-house crowd at The Hall at Fauntleroy.
Any federal employees furloughed or fearing furloughs, or fired since the White House changed occupants? About a half dozen people stood up.
Any researchers, health care workers, others affected by cuts and policy changes? “Stand and let us give you some love.” Even more people stood up.
Any immigrants, or people who know an immigrant affected by “this administration’s horrific anti-immigrant policies?” Several stood.
Finally, she invited anyone who considered themselves “a concerned citizen … ready to do whatever it takes to take back our democracy” to rise – and the whole room stood.
Jayapal, in her fifth two-year term as U.S. House Representative for Washington’s 7th District, which includes our area, is a West Seattle resident. She noted, however, that while she’s held 125 town halls, she hasn’t had one in her home neighborhood in a while, so they arranged it: “We are in community together and we will get through this.”
Her primary topic was the federal-government shutdown, now entering its fourth week, though she added that it was “Day 32 of (House Speaker) Mike Johnson sending us home instead of taking votes.” She insisted the Democratic members of Congress are holding their ground on their primary demand for breaking the impasse, restoration of health-insurance tax credits. She also threw in a big dig at what she called the “Big Bad Betrayal Bill … that stripped (money) from Medicaid and supercharged ICE … since that bill we have only been in session for 20 days … while the country is suffering, instead of doing the work of Congress, we are not in session.”
While each party blames the other for the impasse, Jayapal insisted that if one party controls the government, it’s their job to negotiate with the other party to reach an agreement. And she said people in Republican-controlled states will be hurt by the loss of the tax credits too: “80 percent of (people who use them) are in states Donald Trump won … 60 percent of births in (Speaker Johnson’s) state are covered by Medicaid … it’s difficult to understand how Republicans continue to vote for things that are going to deeply hurt their constituents.” Although, she added, there’s the occasional outlier – currently U.S. House Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Georgia).
For the Republicans who are trying to say they don’t have to address the health-insurance situation now, they’ll fix it later, too late, Jayapal declared – people are getting notices right now about the rising premiums. She also took on what she says is another lie that Republicans are telling, that Democrats are seeking funding for health care for undocumented immigrants: “Let me be clear, that is not on the table, it’s never been a proposal that’s on the table.”
Then there’s the faction contending they just have to approve a “clean continuing resolution.” Jayapal said that means “non-partisan” and that what’s on the table right now “is a continuation of the partisan budget” approved earlier. She ticked through a list of other concerns, from nutrition-program cuts – “this is the richest country in the world and people are going hungry” – to energy-grant cancellations – to Project 2025 (“this is what we’re seeing in action .. the people he installed are all the people who wrote it”) – to the U.S. Supreme Court (“MAGA-corrupted justices”) – to Speaker Johnson’s refusal to swear in Arizona’s recently elected U.S. House member, a Democrat.
Moving on to address the president sending troops and/or National Guardsmen into cities such as Portland, she noted that some judges have ruled against it, and cited what she said were quotes from rulings, such as:
-Judge in Portland: “This is a nation of constitutional law, not martial law.”
-Judge in Chicago: “Oolitical opposition is not rebellion”
The recent rappeling raid of a Chicago apartment complex is “beyond anything I ever could have imagined,” she said, especially as “one of only two dozen naturalized citizens to serve in the US Congress … this is not the couhtry that America is supposed to be … not the country that we are.” She said a majority of those detained do not have criminal records, adding, “in the US, it is not a crime to be undocumented,” it’s a civil violation.
Jayapal said that “if we take back the House” she will chair the committee dealing with immigration, and she is having “shadow hearings” in Illinois in a few days.
Ultimately, she said, “The most important check and balance the founders built in (when setting up the nation) is you… (the first check) Congress failed … (the second check) the courts are teetering … the only remaining check is the people. What you do matters.”
After speaking for 36 minutes, Jayapal moved on to Q&A, getting through 16 open-mic questions/comments in the ensuing hour:
-A federal employee worried about potential furlough
-Someone overwhelmed by daily “outrageous proposals” emanating from the White House (“pick a few things to work on,” Jayapal advised)
-Are our electeds really ready for possible federal troops? Yes, said Jayapal
-A DACA recipient brought here as a baby, worried about removal
-A mental-health counselor who can’t afford health insurance for their own employees
-Someone wondering why no nationwide protests against corporations “who folded”? (Jayapal said she thought “Tesla Takedowns” were “effective)
-Why is president cutting education, nutrition $? (Jayapal said education should be seen as “an investment.”)
-Concern about treaties with indigenous nations being at risk
-Renters’ rights (Jayapal said one solution is for more federal investment in building housing)
-Frustration with “how ineffective the Democratic Party has been … we are where we are because the Republican Party is horrendous but also because the Democratic Party has been so ineffective” … Jayapal said she didn’t disagree but that it’s time to work for change, not to just “throw up our hands.”
-Concern that staffing cuts in programs helping disadvantaged people are rendering those programs impossible to administer
-Medication is too expensive
-Ongoing concern about Gaza (Jayapal said “the genocide is continuing” because not enough aid trucks can get in)
-Gratitude for Jayapal’s “Resistance Lab” program
-Medicare Advantage shouldn’t be allowed to have “Medicare” in its name (Jayapal, a longtime MA critic, said she agreed)
-For the Democrats to hold the line is “defense” when “we need offense” – how can local organizations be better partners? (Jayapal said she agrees and that “structural changes” are necessary “when we take back the House and Senate and White House,” such as Supreme Court expansion and getting rid of the filibuster).
She ended by telling the crowd, “Don’t give up, we can do this!” and then stayed a while for photo ops with attendees.
(Photo by Robin Sinner)
Here’s what’s on our Wednesday list, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (and if we’re missing something – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thanks!):
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: 10 am Wednesday walks leave from 47th/Fauntleroy (this is our weekly last-minute reminder, so would-be walkers can set their calendars for next Wednesday morning!).
TODDLER READING TIME AT PAPER BOAT: 10:30 am at the bookstore. (4522 California SW)
SOUTHWEST ARTIST SHOWCASE: The show continues, with art on display all around Southwest Library (9010 35th SW), so you can visit any time during regular hours, 12 pm-8 pm today.
PUMPKIN JUNCTION: Open at noon today for first day of The Beer Junction‘s annual pumpkin-beer celebration. (4511 California SW)
FREE KIDS’ ART WORKSHOP: With Rec’N The Streets at Delridge Library (5423 Delridge Way SW), 3 pm.
DROP-IN HOMEWORK HELP: Volunteers are ready to help K-12 students 4-7:30 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).
ROCK BAND GAMING AT MR. B’S MEAD CENTER: 5-10 pm, new weekly event in South Delridge! (9444 Delridge Way SW)
FIX-IT WORKSHOP: Fix your broken item instead of throwing it out! Weekly event, free (donations appreciated), 5:30-7:30 pm at West Seattle Tool Library (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center).
MARINER MOOSE AT OUNCES: Just got word this am, two days after the Mariners’ Game 7 loss in the American League Championship Series:
Mariner Moose at Ounces tonight 5:45-6:30 pm
For those still reeling from the M’s loss, come give a hug to the Mariner Moose! The Moose will be at Ounces tonight, 10/22 from 5:45-6:30 pm for a special appearance benefiting Fairmount Park Elementary. Grab a drink and some dinner while you’re there –– a percentage of all sales will be donated back to the school! Plus, special activities for kids all night! All ages welcome!
POTTERINGS OPEN STUDIO: 6-8 pm, drop in and create! If you want some inspiration, this month’s spotlight project is a seasonal pumpkin luminary. (3400 Harbor SW)
PLAY CRIBBAGE: 6 pm at West Seattle Eagles (4426 California SW), membership not required.
FREE ART CLASS: 6-8 pm, pay what you can, all levels invited to explore watercolors at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW).
EARLY HALLOWEEN PARTY: Seaside Grill (2820 Alki SW) is hosting early Halloween fun 6-9 pm.
WEST SEATTLE URBANISM: All are welcome at the group’s weekly happy-hour meetup, 6-8 pm at Great American Diner & Bar. (4752 California SW).
WEDNESDAY NIGHT RUN: Get moving in the middle of the week – the weekly 6:15 pm group run with West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) is tonight – all welcome, regardless of pace!
LIVE MUSIC AT THE LOCOL: 6:30 pm. 21+. Rotating performer lineup. (7902 35th SW)
HIGH-SCHOOL SPORTS: Both of these are at 7 pm: In volleyball, Chief Sealth IHS hosts Cleveland (2600 SW Thistle) and West Seattle HS hosts Eastside Catholic (3000 California SW) …
MUSIC BINGO: Weekly music bingo at at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7 pm.
KUNDALINI YOGA: 7 pm at Inner Alchemy Studio/Sanctuary (3618 SW Alaska). $35.
TRIVIA x 4: Four West Seattle trivia spots on our Wednesday list: 7 pm at Admiral Pub (2306 California SW), free to play … Larry’s Tavern (3405 California SW) has Wednesday trivia at 8 pm … Quiz Night also starts at 8 pm at Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW) … and it’s an 8:30 pm start for trivia with Phil T at Talarico’s (4718 California SW), all ages until 10 pm.
SKYLARK OPEN MIC: West Seattle’s longest-running open mic! 7:30 pm signups for the weekly event at The Skylark. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
KARAOKE AT ADMIRAL PUB: You can sing at the pub starting at 8:45 pm. (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!
The West Seattle Junior Wildcats organization wants families to know that it’s registration time for winter skills training – and they’re looking for volunteers too. Here’s their announcement:
Winter Football Skills Training is here!
We’re building a strong foundation for our athletes with year-round football and athletic training. This winter program is designed for our future 7v7 two-hand touch Jr Wildcats competition team, launching in the Spring under Coach Brooks.
Who can join?
5th–8th graders
With or without football experience — everyone is welcome!Led by an Experienced Coach:
Coach Brooks is a staff member and coach at Kennedy Catholic High School, bringing proven expertise and a passion for developing young athletes in both high school and collegiate environments.Why join? Benefits for your kids:
Skill Development: Learn advanced football techniques and improve athletic performance.
Teamwork & Leadership: Build confidence and strong social connections through team play.
Year-Round Fitness: Stay active and healthy during the off-season.
Path to Competition: Prepare for the exciting Spring 7v7 two-hand touch Jr Wildcats team and/or our Fall tackle season.
Positive Coaching: Focused on growth, sportsmanship, and fun.
💰 Register now for discounted pricing through October 31!We need YOU!
To make this program a success, we need 10+ more athletes to add to our roster. This is a pure volunteer effort, and your support matters.✅ Register today
✅ Reach out with any questions
✅ Volunteer to help us growLet’s give our boys the training they deserve and build something amazing together!
📩 Contact us now to get involved or if you have any questions!
Alison Mitchell (acavenee@yahoo.com) or Laura Close (laura.close@gmail.com)
6:03 AM: Good morning! It’s Wednesday, October 22, 2025.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
The forecast for today says clouds will increase, chance of rain, high in the low 60s, breezy. Sunrise will be at 7:37 am; sunset, at 6:07 pm. (We “fall back” one hour in 11 days.)
(Tuesday sunset, photographed by Tom Trulin)
ROAD WORK
-SDOT expects to work on the added 60th/61st/62nd speed bumps between Alki Avenue and Admiral Way this week.
-A median curb is in place on Sylvan Way, near the cemetery. We’re stillwaiting for SDOT answers to our questions about the project.
WEEKEND ALERT
-Sunday (October 26), the West Seattle Junction Harvest Fest will take over an extra block (California south of Alaska) of the heart of The Junction, while the Farmers’ Market occupies its usual block. SW Alaska also will be closed from 42nd to 44th.
TRANSIT TODAY
Washington State Ferries – WSF has three boats on the Triangle Route, with M/V Kittitas, M/V Cathlamet, and M/V Sealth. Vessel Watch will show you which boat is where; ferry alerts will update with any changes.
Metro buses – On regular schedule and routes.
Water Taxi – Now on regular West Seattle service, fall/winter schedule.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Here’s the view looking west. Also note, maritime-opening info is again available via X (ex-Twitter):
1st Avenue South Bridge:
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 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!
Sent by Riley on Genesee Hill:
I wanted to share this incident with the wider community as I just finished filing a police report and thought someone else might have some intel or have had a similar experience.
Yesterday we had a Murphy bed delivered to our house, and as it was massively heavy, on a large wooden pallet, and attached with metal cables; we were unable to move it in initially and were trying to get ahold of some bolt cutters. We were out of the house this morning for a few hours, and realized upon our return that the whole pallet was missing and there were marks leading across the yard and up the driveway where it had been dragged. After reaching out to our neighbors, several responded saying they saw someone loading it into an unmarked sprinter van. Amazingly, one of someone even caught them on camera. They had on reflective vests, had a dolly with them, and were carrying paperwork in an attempt to look legitimate.
We live at the bottom of a steep driveway and our house is quite tucked in, so we think this may have been a bit more sophisticated than the average package theft.
We’ll add the SPD report # when we get it.
Two Seaview sights from a texter:
A garden near 49th and Juneau appears to be growing a skeleton, while in the 6000 block of 49th SW, two giraffes are working on costumes:
Ten more nights until Halloween, and our decoration spotlights continue – more photos welcome via westseattleblog@gmail.com, or text 206-293-6302 – thank you! (And see our archived Halloween coverage, decorations and more, by scrolling through westseattleblog.com/category/halloween …)
Six months after our most recent update on a townhouse/live-work project planned for 5617 California SW [map], the site’s just been cleared. Going by today, we stopped after noting the 113-year-old house that’s held small businesses on the site had been demolished. City records say nine units – with the three live-works facing California – and four offstreet-parking spaces are planned – here’s a rendering:
If you’re interested in full design details, see the design packet here. Side note from city files: Under the Mandatory Housing Affordability policy, the developer will have to pay a quarter-million dollar fee since none of the units will be officially “affordable.”
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
State Attorney General Nick Brown got a standing ovation even before he spoke to the Rotary Club of West Seattle this afternoon at the WS Golf Course.
Brown, a West Seattle resident, said the past 10 months – since his election – “have felt more like 10 years” – only half-jokingly. But “despite all the chaos of the past 10 months … I love being in this position.” Here’s our video of his speech in its entirety, starting after the four-minute introduction by West Seattle Rotary president Ron Palmer:
Before talking about the work that’s put him in the headlines – more than 40 lawsuits against the Trump Administration – Brown said it’s important to acknowledge the hard work of his staff, “at this time when public service is denigrated” and worse. His department has “about 830 lawyers who work for me, on behalf of you,” and 900 more professional staffers, all spread across 13 offices in the state. “Part of the reason we’re so big” is that they represent every single part of the state government, rather than various agencies and departments (and universities, and more) rather than those entities each having their own legal staff. “All the way down to the state Potato Commission!” All in all, “I get to come to work and do something that matters, every single day.”
The Attorney General often works with the public on consumer-protection issues; he mentioned cases such as the rent-fixing allegations against RealPage. “We do so many things that touch people’s lives … And every now and then we sue the President of the United States.”
Brown said he doesn’t take joy in that “so much of our work is focused on protecting people from their president.” He explained that he started his career (here’s his bio) as an Army JAG lawyer and has other veterans and service members in his family. “I really love our country and believe in it … I believe we ar facing a torrent of illegal activity from the presidency … harming Washingtonians.” And when he sees that, “I feel an obligation to step in.” Right now, his office is involved in 41 cases against the federal government, out of about 55 filed by him and other state officials nationwide. Some of the cases are led by other states; some are joined by other states.
In talking about them, he singled out two categories:
The fourth Wednesday of the month – tomorrow – usually would be HPAC meeting night, but the community coalition for Highland Park, Riverview, and South Delridge is skipping this month:
We hope everyone has been making the most of this beautiful autumn season. HPAC’s October gathering won’t be taking place as originally scheduled. However, we’re hoping to reconvene in November or December for a special session where we’ll dive into the revised design for the Highland Park Way SW hill project with SDOT.
SDOT announced last March that it was proceeding with the project to replace a downhill driving lane with biking/walking/rolling infrastructure
(Thanks to City Councilmember Dan Strauss’s newsletter for the image)
That’s the tall ship Statsraad Lehmkuhl, and while we can’t say whether all those sails will be up, if you have a view of Elliott Bay on Wednesday morning, you might see it sail in for a 9 am arrival at Pier 66 downtown. It’s headed here as part of One Ocean Week, during a year-long voyage across Europe, North America, Central America, and South America (see the map here), promoting ocean sustainability. One Ocean Week, “catalyzing the Blue Economy,” includes a slate of local events, including a waterfront festival this Friday and Saturday; see the schedule here. That includes tours of the tall ship, 2-5 pm Friday, but you have to pre-register – here’s how.
It’s salmon season in West Seattle creeks!
LONGFELLOW CREEK: Thanks to Manuel Valdes for sending that video of a Monday sighting: “Saw about a half dozen (Monday) afternoon just south of the health club, already trying to get over the first beaver dams.”
FAUNTLEROY CREEK: No official word of sightings here yet but this Sunday (October 26) is the day you’re invited to join in the annual singing and drumming gathering to welcome the coho. 4 pm, show up where SW Director meets upper Fauntleroy Way, across the street and upslope from the ferry dock. Bring something to drum with if you want, but not required. All ages!
(Sorrel tree – photo by Susan Romanenghi)
Here’s our Tuesday list, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
FREE PLAYSPACE: West Seattle Church of the Nazarene is opening its free community playspace, 9 am-noon Tuesdays and Thursdays. (42nd/Juneau)
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.
SOUTHWEST ARTIST SHOWCASE: Art is on display all around Southwest Library (9010 35th SW), and you can visit any time this month during regular hours, which are 12 pm-8 pm today.
ROTARY CLUB OF WEST SEATTLE: Noon lunch meeting at West Seattle Golf Course. Guest speaker: State Attorney General Nick Brown. (4470 35th SW).
CHESS CLUB: All levels welcome! 1:30-3 pm, at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon). Questions? Email conwell@conwelld.net.
HOMEWORK HELP: Students can get free drop-in homework help at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), 4 pm to 5:45 pm.
HIGH-SCHOOL SPORTS: Chief Sealth IHS girls’ soccer Senior Night vs. Nathan Hale at 5 pm, Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle).
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 bring your own.
UKULELE PLAYERS EVENING MEETUP: 6 pm at The Good Society (California/Lander).
REP. JAYAPAL’S TOWN HALL: 6 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy (9131 California SW), our area’s U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal will hold a town hall about the government shutdown. RSVP required; link’s in our calendar listing.
MUSIC AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: 6-8 pm, C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor) hosts “Unplugged: A Musical Gathering“ for acoustic music-making, All ages, no cover.
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.
CREATE POTTERY: Second-to-last weekly 6:30-9 pm “girls’ night” at closing-soon pottery studio The Clay Cauldron (5214 Delridge Way SW), register in advance to work on your project(s).
BIRDS AND BEES TALK: Every parent of a young child needs to know how to tackle this topic, and West Seattle Cooperative Preschools is bringing in expert educator Amy Lang for a presentation with advice at 7 pm tonight, South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) – more info in our calendar listing.
SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING: New classes continue, 7 pm at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW). Our calendar listing has details including how to check if they have space. Newcomers are always welcome, and the first class is free. (WSB sponsor)
WOMEN’S MEDITATION CIRCLE: Weekly small-group event at Mama Be Well Healing Studio (4034 California SW), 7 pm. Our calendar listing has info on registering before you participate.
BINGO: Play free Tuesday night Belle of the Balls Bingo at The Skylark, 7 pm. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
WEST SEATTLE PFLAG: 7 pm monthly gathering at Admiral HUB (4320 SW Hill).
TRIVIA X 4: Four locations for trivia tonight – The Beer Junction (4711 California SW), Sporcle Pub Quiz with David at 7 and 8 pm … 7 pm at Ounces (3803 Delridge Way SW), free and hosted by Beat the Geek Trivia; 7 pm at Zeeks Pizza West Seattle (6459 California SW), hosted by Geeks Who Drink; 7 pm at Admiral Pub, free, prizes. (2306 California SW).
If you are organizing an event, class, performance, gathering, etc., tell your West Seattle neighbors via our event calendar, from which we draw our daily lists too – just email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
If you have expired or no-longer-needed medicine to get rid of, and aren’t sure where to do that with all the local drugstore changes, here’s an opportunity: This Saturday is the fall Drug Take-Back Day event. Again this time, the Southwest Precinct (2300 SW Webster) is one of two SPD precincts in the city participating. Take your items there 10 am-2 pm Saturday (October 25), no questions asked.
6:02 AM: Good morning! It’s Tuesday, October 21, 2025.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
The forecast for today says sunshine and a high around 60. Sunrise will be at 7:37 am; sunset, at 6:09 pm. (We “fall back” one hour in 12 days.)
ROAD WORK
-SDOT says work on the added 60th/61st/62nd speed bumps between Alki Avenue and Admiral Way could start this week.
-A reader reports work to install a median curb was happening Sunday on Sylvan Way, near the cemetery. We’re waiting for SDOT answers to our questions about the project.
WEEKEND EARLY ALERT
-Sunday (October 26), the West Seattle Junction Harvest Fest will take over an extra block (California south of Alaska) of the heart of The Junction, while the Farmers’ Market occupies its usual block.
TRANSIT TODAY
Washington State Ferries – WSF has three boats service on the Triangle Route, with M/V Kittitas, M/V Cathlamet, and M/V Sealth. Vessel Watch will show you which boat is where; ferry alerts will update with any changes.
Metro buses – On regular schedule and routes.
Water Taxi – Now on regular West Seattle service, fall/winter schedule.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Here’s the view looking west. Also note, maritime-opening info is again available via X (ex-Twitter):
1st Avenue South Bridge:
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 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!
(IBIE photo: William Leaman, left, and team after 2nd-place continental finish)
By Anne Higuera
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
William Leaman’s suitcase is packed again.
As his wife and business partner Heather Leaman predicted, the chef’s schedule this fall is also packed, but he is energized and full of new ideas, and his enthusiasm is infectious. Bakery Nouveau’s West Seattle founder is headed to an unglamorous Chicago warehouse for the weekend, and every other weekend until January, coaching an American team that aims to bring home the same international baking award he and his team won 20 years ago. It’s a bit of déjà vu and 20-20 hindsight all at once.
“If I‘d known I would have ended up coaching, I would have sat there all three days,” he says, thinking back to the Coupe du Monde de la Boulangerie in Paris in 2005, where he spent a single day baking with his team to win the championship. Leaman was captain of the Bread Baker’s Guild Team representing the United States then, an achievement he says was life-changing. “It really kind of pushed me into having a competition every day,” which led to opening the flagship Bakery Nouveau store on California Avenue SW in 2006, and two more, on Capitol Hill and in Burien.
Though his 2005 Coupe du Monde trophy is displayed proudly on the wall of his West Seattle location, he wasn’t expecting the invitation to return to the competition as a coach all these years later. “Your name came up,” is what Leaman was told, to be one of the working bakers asked to mentor a team. It did give him pause. “How can we get back up to the top of the mountain? I did it before, can I do it again as a coach?” The introspection did not last long. Despite the time commitment of traveling to numerous practices in the Midwest, he was all in. “I’ve never really given up on continuing to learn,” he says. Besides, sharing his expertise with the next generation of bakers moving up in the industry is de rigueur for a baker devoted to constantly improving his craft while encouraging others along the way.
Coach Leaman and Team USA have already made it past the first hurdle during the initial competition at the International Baking Industry Exposition in Las Vegas last month, coming in 2nd behind Canada for teams in North and South America. Both teams will advance to the January finals, where there will be two teams from each continent, plus a couple of wildcards.
Académie Culinaire de France organizes this competition every 2-3 years to “Defend, Improve, Transmit French Culinary Art in the world.” Teams are composed of three members, each specializing on one aspect of artisan baking. This year’s American team includes bakers from across the country: Ambrose Erkenswick from Chicago, Miami-based Sandy Rodriguez (who was born in Cuba), and Nicolas Nayener, who is originally from France. “This is a true all-American team and I love that international aspect,” says Leaman, who sees them as underdogs because they had a much shorter timeline to practice together for the Las Vegas preliminaries than countries like Japan and South Korea, whose teams formed earlier. “It was really good to have a practice under conditions very similar to what they will have in Paris.”
The conditions in Paris can be both intimidating and grueling, with a jury of 10 watching your every move, along with hundreds in the audience and the occasional camera crew taking up space in the work area. Before last month, Leaman said the members of the US team had never competed in front of people. “It’s a little nerve-wracking, and you’re lucky if you sleep the night before.” Throw in other challenges, like a working space that starts out at 50F in the morning and can easily warm to 80F+ with all the ovens going, and the fact that no one knows exactly what kind of flour they’ll be using. The only ingredient bakers can walk in the door with is the starter they bring for sourdough.
All those variables come into play as the team works to meet strict criteria about finished size and weight of what they bake. Erkenswick will be in charge of baking 25 traditional baguettes that must measure a precise length and weight, within 2 grams. Nayener will take on artistic breads – standards like a sourdough levain, and others, including a random bread literally chosen from a hat. That could be a German pretzel, a European rye, or something else entirely. Rodriguez will produce all of the viennoiserie, which are pastries made from yeasted, laminated dough. That means croissants and their like, totaling 16 pastries at 60 grams each, 4 at 300-500 grams, laminated brioche at 80 grams, and some brioche à tête, which has a little ball of dough topping it off. “The most basic things are hardest to make,” says Leaman.
The standards are also not necessarily so standard. Croissants that might be a gentle crescent shape in previous years are now required to have their ends tucked in (see the photo above, on the left), something that Leaman says used to be a sign that croissant was made with margarine rather than butter. They’re still absorbing all of what they need to accomplish on January 20th, their assigned day to compete. “This is an R&D weekend — we just got the rules last week,” he says. There’s also a category of “snacks” —little sandwiches — to plan for the team to produce. It’s just four varieties, but 120 total to make.
This is part of where Leaman’s expertise will benefit the team. Having run the three Bakery Nouveau locations, he and his staff have baked and assembled hundreds of thousands of sandwiches over the years. He’s been poring over ideas for unique sandwiches that fit his formula for a great bite that isn’t muddled by too many elements—just two flavors and a texture. Right now he’s thinking about a brioche sandwich that would feature black cod marinated in shiso, mirin, and sake. “Flavor is #1 what I want them to focus on, but also maintaining authenticity.”
Aside from the food itself, Leaman says he’s coaching his team about the value of how comfortable team members are with each other and those observing them. “Talk to the judge if they come up. They’re bakers too.” He encourages explaining what they’re doing and why, but also arriving looking their best — clothes pressed, clean shoes, fresh haircuts. “Be a showman,” he says, “but don’t let them see everything.” The flourish of a big reveal at the end is worth a little bit of concealment along the way. Leaman was chosen to be team captain in 2005 because he spoke some French, which is required for the captain’s presentation to the jury. It certainly won’t hurt that this year’s team captain is fluent. “I’m really impressed with the chemistry,” he says. “My team [in 2005] had that same chemistry.” On competition day, Leaman will not be allowed inside the working area, but he can give the team advice, as well as being an extra eye on what’s cooking on the stove, or needs to come out of the oven.
As much as the team will learn from Leaman’s experience, he says the benefit is reciprocal. “It’s great to sort of relive my own experience and help a team, but it’s also so enriching for myself as a business owner. I get to bring new and cool ideas back to the neighborhood.” He says he’s ready to look at revamping some of the menu in the new year, with inspiration stirred up in the process of the competition. “Covid took a lot of the fun stuff out. This is forcing me to relook at things that I’ve gotten comfortable with.” He’s also looking ahead not just to the next 20 years, but well beyond. “I want to keep going for another 50,” he says, and continue to focus on quality over quantity. “I don’t want to be the most. I just want to be the best.”
The Coupe du Monde de la Boulangerie competition will be held January 20-21, 2026. Team USA will compete on the same day as France, Senegal, Japan, and Brazil.
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