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West Seattle, Washington

27 Friday

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Spotlight Stories


  • Sale

    STORE SOLD: Here’s what buyer’s broker says

  • Protest

    RECLAIM THE FLAG: Corner rallies on Saturday

  • Closing

    CLOSURE AHEAD: Plan for dump station shutdown

Lots of updates and issues surface @ Alki Community Council’s June 2025 meeting
June 27, 2025 7:32 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   Neighborhoods | West Seattle news

By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor

Summer has just begun, but winter fun was part of the discussion when the Alki Community Council met last night. The meeting at Alki UCC was facilitated by ACC president Charlotte Starck, and started with a discussion of public-safety issues.

PUBLIC SAFETY: A member of the SPD Community Service Officers team presented crime stats, with major categories down. Of particular note, she said confirmed-gunfire incidents in West Seattle total 50 so far this year, down three from 2024. Alki has had three such incidents so far this year, down from four in the same time period of 2024. (Our archives show four, the most recent one two weeks ago, so she may have been citing stats through the end of May.)

Concerns voiced by attendees included a perceived uptick in reckless driving by motorcyclists, and “takeover” situations – one attendee said she got trapped in one of the latter at Chelan/Spokane on June 13. We took this traffic-camera screenshot taken as it was breaking up:

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The attendee hadn’t seen a police response but we recall officers showing up that night, as shown on the live camera, as the traffic-stopping gathering was dispersing. Others surfaced concerns about reckless driving on Admiral; Starck wondered what it would take to get that street designated as a “racing zone” in hopes that would boost its eligibility for enforcement.

Also, a resident campaigning for speed humps/cushions on 63rd Avenue SW said he’s been videoing speeders to put together an argument for why the raised pavement is needed.

ALKI ‘NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER’ REVIVED? The ACC isn’t advocating any particular position on the Comprehensive Plan changes before the City Council and hasn’t had a discussion on whether to do that, Starck noted. But one attendee brought up a proposal to amend the current legislation by adding more Neighborhood Centers, possibly to be formally introduced by a councilmember later this summer. A walking tour might precede that. The attendee identified herself as pro-housing and said she has lots of family members in this area and would like them to have more housing options. Another attendee noted that the originally proposed heart of a possible Alki Neighborhood Center was 61st/Stevens, right by the Log House Museum (as we first reported when city leaders unveiled the rezoning proposal last October).

ALKI LIGHT POSTS: Starck said these had rusted hangers on them dating back more than a decade – so 16 posts on Alki Avenue between 55th and 59th are getting repainted by the city over the next few weeks, a small move toward “bringing back the vibrancy.” This is a case of “if you see something, say something,” to get something fixed, she reminded attendees.

ALKI BEACH PRIDE: Starck read a message from Alki Beach Pride co-organizer Stacy Bass-Walden seeking people to help with the flag unfurling on August 10 – much like this one we covered last year:

(WSB photo, August 2024)

The date for Alki Beach Pride this year is August 16. The event time is noon-8 pm; Alki Avenue will be closed to vehicle traffic between 57th and 61st, from early morning until late night.

ALKI CHRISTMAS SHIP VISIT: The ACC got early word of this year’s date: On December 18th, off Salty’s at Alki, 5:50 pm-6:10 pm, and then off Alki Beach that same night, 8:40 pm-9 pm. Last year the ACC synergized an event Christmas Ship night with lights and other festive touches on shore, including treats at businesses, which saw hundreds of visitors, so this year the ACC plans something even bigger. They’re working on a grant application right now and will likely call for volunteers when fall gets closer.

More quick items:

ALKI ART FAIR: Briefly mentioned – it’s coming up July 18-20.

BUSES: In going-around-the-room discussion, there was a mention of interest in two Alki bus-service issues – restoring the 37, and moving the bus stop at Alki/61st (possibly around the corner to 61st south of Alki), an issue that surfaced during the mayor’s tour of Alki businesses last month.

SCHMITZ PARK CREEK RESTORE: A rep of the group who was in attendance said they’ve just received their first grant, and it’s for education. Weed pulling is under way, and tours of the park are also in the current plan.

WHAT’S NEXT? Watch alkicommunitycouncil.org for word of the next meeting, tentatively set to be in person only on the third Thursday in July – July 17.

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Drive the Highway 99 tunnel? It’ll cost you a bit more starting Tuesday
June 27, 2025 6:34 pm
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 |   Highway 99 tunnel | West Seattle news

As explained by the state Transportation Commission, which sets rates for charges such as ferry fares and highway tolls, you’ll pay a bit more to use the Highway 99 tunnel starting Tuesday:

When toll rates were initially set on the SR 99 tunnel in 2018, the Commission included a plan for 3% toll rate increases to take effect every three years, subject to review and possible adjustment by the Commission (WAC 468-270-073 & WAC 468-270-040). The purpose of these planned toll rate increases is to manage ongoing cost inflation and ensure the facility generated the necessary revenue to meet legal requirements.

On May 13, 2025, the Commission approved the next 3% toll rate increase, which will take effect on July 1, 2025.

As summarized here, “Tolls will increase by 5 cents during off-peak and morning hours. Toll rates will increase by 10 cents during evening peak hours.” You can see the current and new rates in tables on this page. Again, the changes kick in on Tuesday (July 1).

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Gunfire on the bridge; shoplifting crackdown
June 27, 2025 2:58 pm
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Two newly released police reports in West Seattle Crime Watch this afternoon:

BRIDGE GUNFIRE: This happened night before last but we just got confirmation by procuring the police-report narrative today. Police found casings near the crest of the West Seattle Bridge after a westbound driver late Wednesday night reported seeing someone “hanging out the window” of an eastbound vehicle, firing a handgun into the air. The car was described as a gold Ford sedan. Police did not get word of any injuries or damage.

SHOPLIFTING CRACKDOWN: Police have mentioned “emphasis” operations at Westwood Village previously. This SPD summary says officers from two precincts did it again this past Tuesday:

At 1200 hours, South patrol, and Southwest patrol participated in a multi-store retail theft operation at Westwood Village. Officers teamed with loss prevention representatives from Marshalls and Target to identify and then apprehend shoplifters. Six arrests were made between the two stores and the recovery of stolen merchandise. One of the six arrestees was also booked for a felony warrant. This was a team effort by GIU detectives, patrol, and partnership with the loss prevention employees at the two businesses.

We’re pursuing further information to see who was booked and/or charged.

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SEEN OFF WEST SEATTLE: USS Gabrielle Giffords, headed for Vigor
June 27, 2025 1:54 pm
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 |   Seen at sea | West Seattle news

Thanks to Steven Rice for the photos as the littoral combat ship USS Gabrielle Giffords arrived in Elliott Bay today.

Vigor has a $55+ million contract to work on the Gabrielle Giffords, named for the former Arizona U.S. House member who survived an assassination attempt 14 years ago. She visited the ship at the Harbor Island shipyard when it was previously here for work four years ago.

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WEST SEATTLE SCENE: Pokémon-card entrepreneurs
June 27, 2025 1:21 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   Fauntleroy | Seen around town | West Seattle news

It’s not quite lemonade-stand weather. So this enterprising trio has set up a Pokémon-card stand instead! One participant’s parent sent us the photo, noting you can find them until 3 or so by the 38th SW/SW Barton standpipe in Upper Fauntleroy.

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NEW EVENT! The West Seattle Saunter, set for July 12
June 27, 2025 12:29 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Fun stuff to do | West Seattle news

Love to walk? You’re invited to be part of a new event, The West Seattle Saunter, on Saturday, July 12. Organizer Holden coordinated The Seattle Super Saunter last month and tells WSB, “We got about 200-300 people to walk the whole city in the pouring rain for our first event and I felt bad we did not get to include West Seattle on the day.” So this one is devoted to the peninsula: “The West Seattle Saunter is about a 12-mile walk which will begin at the West Seattle Water Taxi pier and then go along Alki, head to Lincoln Park, go up to Myrtle Reservoir Park, and then finish at Alaska Junction for Summer Fest,” which will be on Day 2 by then. This is a free community-building event, and you can register by going here and/or here.

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BIZNOTE: Why Metropolitan Market’s service counters are closed this morning
June 27, 2025 11:10 am
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 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

Thanks to Yma for telling us about this: We subsequently checked and learned a broken hot-water tank is to blame for a temporary shutdown of all of the service counters at the Admiral Metropolitan Market this morning. We reached the bakery counter by phone and were told the tank should be repaired within the hour, but it will take some time for the service counters to ramp back up, depending on what they sell.

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Music, art, theater, history, more for your West Seattle Friday!
June 27, 2025 9:58 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Photo by Steve Bender)

Here’s our list for your Friday, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: The center is open for plant-shopping Thursdays-Saturdays 10 am-3 pm, north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus.

FIREFIGHTER STORY TIME: 11 am at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), geared toward teaching fire safety to very young children in a fun way, usually with a chance to see the firefighters’ gear and engine.

HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK: The spraypark is open every day 11 am-8 pm. Free. (1100 SW Cloverdale)

WADING POOLS: The city says this afternoon’s cloudy, cooler forecast means the wading pools will stay closed today.

COLMAN POOL: Closed to the public for a swim meet; back to regular schedule Sunday.

SEATTLE TERIYAKI HISTORY: See this brand-new exhibit at the Log House Museum (61st/Stevens) while it’s open noon-4 pm today.

LOW-LOW TIDE: Out to -3.1 feet at (updated) 12:51 pm.

THE BEER JUNCTION’S 15TH ANNIVERSARY: Celebrating all weekend with a new beer release among other things. (4511 California SW)

QI GONG AT VIVA ARTS: Fridays at 12:15 pm – info in our calendar listing. (4421 Fauntleroy Way SW)

(added) U-GOD SIGNING AT EASY STREET: 4 pm at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW):

We welcome U-God from The Wu-Tang Clan, for a signing, meet & greet, a day before the Wu takes over Climate Pledge Arena! on Saturday (ft. Run The Jewels, tickets still available!) …
ALL AGES SIGNING. 21+ to drink. No purchase necessary

JAZZ/BLUES JAM AT KENYON HALL: By and for student musicians and young pros, 6 pm doors, 6:30 pm music during the last edition of Kenyon Hall‘s monthly jam before the venue’s summer repair/maintenance break! Free.(7904 35th SW)

MAKE A MUG AT RAIN CITY CLAY: 6 pm – signup link is in our calendar listing. (4208 SW 100th)

POTTERS’ BOOK CLUB: Create with clay while discussing a book! 6:30 pm at The Clay Cauldron (5214 Delridge Way SW).

‘THE EFFECT’ AT ARTSWEST: Second week for the new play directed by Mathew Wright, 7:30 pm. Our calendar listing has the ticket link.

DRAG KINGS AT THE SKYLARK: 8 pm, Emerald City Kings Ball Pride at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW), advance tickets sold out, check availability at the door.

REVELRY ROOM DJ: 9 pm, DJ Peg tonight! (4547 California SW)

PRIDE COCKTAIL FUNDRAISER: All month long, through Monday, Mioposto (2139 California SW; WSB sponsor) offers a special cocktail, The Sylvia River-ita, with half the proceeds supporting Lambert House.

If you have something to showcase on our event lists or calendar, please email what/when/where/etc. info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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YOU CAN HELP: Three ways to get in on the Taste of West Seattle 2025 – one with a deadline today
June 27, 2025 9:00 am
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 |   How to help | West Seattle news | West Seattle restaurants

The West Seattle Food Bank‘s Taste of West Seattle is three months away but there are three ways to become part of it now – including one, if you’re a food/beverage purveyor, with a deadline today! Here’s the announcement:

Now Signing Up Restaurants for the 2025 Taste of West Seattle!

Early Bird Perk Deadline: June 27 (today!)

West Seattle’s most beloved neighborhood food festival, The Taste of West Seattle, returns on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at The Hall at Fauntleroy — and restaurant sign-ups are now open!

This annual community event brings together hundreds of food lovers to celebrate the local flavors that make West Seattle shine — all while raising critical funds for the West Seattle Food Bank.

This year, restaurants that sign up by June 27 (today!) will receive a special early-bird perk:
– Placement on the official event poster
– Extra promotion in advance press, email campaigns, and social media

“When local restaurants join The Taste of West Seattle, they’re not just showing off what makes their food special — they’re stepping up for their neighbors,” said Robbin Peterson, Development Director. “This event raises critical funds to help West Seattle families stay nourished, clothed, and housed. It’s a delicious way to do real good, right here at home.”

Why Participate?

-No booth fee to participate & you’ll get to meet hundreds of potential customers
-You like winning! “Best Taste” trophies will be awarded in 5 categories
-Your support directly fights hunger and homelessness in our community

Support the Cause as a Community Sponsor

The Taste of West Seattle is also seeking community sponsors to help bring this beloved event to life. Sponsorships are a great way to show your company’s local pride, gain visibility, and make a direct impact on West Seattle families. Opportunities start at just $300, making it accessible to small businesses, teams, and organizations that want to give back. Email robbin@westseattlefoodbank.org or visit the WSFB website to learn more.

Tickets On Sale Now!

Tickets for the event are now available to the public here.

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TRAFFIC, WEATHER, TRANSIT: Friday + weekend info
June 27, 2025 6:03 am
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:03 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Friday, June 27, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Cloudy, chance of showers, high in the mid-60s. Today’s sunrise was at 5:13 am; sunset will be at 9:11 pm.

TRANSIT TODAY

Metro buses – Regular schedule today.

Washington State Ferries – Regular service on the Triangle Route, with M/V Kittitas and M/V Cathlamet. M/V Salish serves as the “bonus boat”. Three-boat service is expected to relaunch early Monday morning – here’s a preview with info we requested from WSF.

Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle service; spring/summer schedule, with later runs on Friday (tonight!) and Saturday nights, plus weeknights with Mariners home games (and some other events) …

WEEKEND NOTES

16th SW in downtown White Center will be closed to traffic Saturday for the Taste of White Center … Alki might be a little congested on Saturday, with the Seafair Pirates Landing in early afternoon … Huge event downtown on Sunday, the Pride Parade, starting 11 am down 4th from Union to Denny ,..

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:

Low Bridge – Looking west:

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!

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WEEKEND PREVIEW: Seattle Chamber Music Society’s Concert Truck here for two performances Sunday
June 26, 2025 10:21 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

This summer, like last summer, the Seattle Chamber Music Society‘s Concert Truck will bring live classical music to two West Seattle spots, the S-Seattle Chinese Garden and Alki Beach Bathhouse. This year, however, both performances are on the same day – and that day is this Sunday (June 29). You can enjoy the free concert at noon Sunday on Alki (2701 Alki SW) and/or at 5 pm at the garden (north end of South Seattle College [WSB sponsor] campus, 6000 16th SW). Both performances are scheduled for the same music and instrumentalists – see the program here. These are free concerts – just bring your own chair/blanket to sit on!

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YOU CAN HELP: Support West Seattle Grand Parade by wearing this T-shirt!
June 26, 2025 7:37 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   How to help | West Seattle Grand Parade | West Seattle news

The West Seattle Grand Parade is just a little more than three weeks away, and starting now, you have a new way to support it: A fundraising T-shirt! Here’s the announcement we received tonight:

The West Seattle Grand Parade Committee and Emerald City Threads are proud to announce the launch of the official West Seattle Grand Parade Fundraiser Tee, available now! Every purchase helps support the 91st Annual West Seattle Grand Parade, returning Saturday, July 19, 2025.

Since 1935, this iconic, volunteer-run event has brought neighbors together with pirates, marching bands, and vibrant community pride. Now, you can support this beloved tradition with a tee that looks great—and gives back.

About the Tee:

● Designed by Hanson Graphic Design
● Printed locally by Emerald City Threads
● Ultra-soft cotton blend
● Sizes: Unisex S–3XL, Kids 2T–Youth L
● Special sizes available upon request

Wear it to the parade. Wear it all year.

Buy here now!

A portion of the proceeds from each shirt sold will help cover parade production and permitting — ensuring the event remains free and family-friendly for years to come.

Founded in West Seattle by Stephanie Blair, Emerald City Threads is local Pacific Northwest gear that doesn’t suck.

Hanson Graphic Design is a women-owned, Seattle-based studio delivering bold, creative solutions for businesses of all sizes and industries.

The T-shirt has three color options – heather, light blue, and the dark blue shown in the example above.

P.S. The parade starts at 11 am Saturday, July 19, at California/Lander, and heads south on California to The Junction.

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PHOTOS: See the other West Seattle wildlife enjoying low-low tide
June 26, 2025 5:56 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle beaches | West Seattle news | Wildlife

Thanks to Gary Jones for the photos from Constellation Park during today’s low-low tide (as noted in our daily highlight list, it was out to -3.7 feet at 12:05 pm. Birds were enjoying it – that’s a Great Blue Heron above, a Gull below:

Also an Osprey:

And a Caspian Tern:

He shared one non-avian wildlife sighting too – a River Otter:

Tomorrow’s lowest tide falls into the low-low category too – -3.1 feet at 12:51 pm Friday.

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FOLLOWUP: Where the Admiral Way Bridge project stands, after sign change
June 26, 2025 3:59 pm
|      9 COMMENTS
 |   Transportation | West Seattle news

(WSB photo of bridge’s topside, last night)

Earlier this week, a reader pointed out that the crudely lettered/numbered “road closed” sign at the north end of Fairmount Avenue had been amended again to show 8/28 as the projected end date of the closure. Has the Admiral Way Bridge project been delayed again? they wondered. We asked SDOT; a spokesperson confirmed their crews changed the sign, but said that’s just in what they’ve been saying for some months now, that the project will be complete “this summer”:

Yes, I can confirm that the sign is ours. The project is expected to be completed this summer. Closures under the bridge remain in place to keep everyone safe while work continues both on the bridge deck and underneath.

Right now, crews are repairing sections of cracked or broken concrete under the bridge. We’ve also started the final phase of the project by working on the bridge’s railing updates.

We understand closures can be inconvenient and appreciate everyone’s patience as we work to reinforce the bridges to better withstand the potential impacts of earthquakes.

It’s been almost exactly a year since work began (here’s our update from this date last year). It wasn’t supposed to last its long, but SDOT says adding painting to the project scope stretched the timeline.

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BIZNOTE: California firm sells Admiral Safeway site to Chicago firm
June 26, 2025 1:52 pm
|      16 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

(Google Maps image)

1:52 PM: Another major chunk of Admiral District commercial property has a new owner. Nine months after Wells Fargo sold its building on the northeast corner of California/Admiral after closing its branch there, the Admiral Safeway site – including the neighboring strip mall – has a new owner too. You might recall that the rebuilt store opened in 2011; one year later, Safeway sold it to a Southern California investment firm for $30 million. Now, after 13 years, that firm has sold it to a Chicago firm for $35.4 million. The sale was first reported by regional business publications this week, and while it’s not yet reflected in the King County Assessor’s Parcel Viewer lookup, we confirmed it via documents elsewhere in the King County online system. The new owner is SSV Admiral Junction LLC, and the name on the documents is Patrick Zilis, co-CEO of Chicago-based Hometown America, which specializes in residential developments, particularly those with manufactured homes on leased land (aka mobile-home parks). We’re of course inquiring about the company’s plan for the property; no proposals are in the city system so far, but the site has long been zoned for mixed-use development up to 7 stories. The Admiral Safeway property had been on the market for at least three months.

3:35 PM: We have since obtained the news release from the company that represented the buyer, after a representative posted a comment below saying that it was purchased by Patrick Zilis’s firm Silver Star Ventures, not Hometown America. For those interested, here’s the news release in its entirety:

JLL Capital Markets announced today that it has arranged the $35.4 million sale of Admiral Junction, a rare infill Seattle grocery-anchored retail center located in West Seattle’s affluent Admiral submarket.

JLL worked on behalf of the buyer, Silver Star Ventures.

Admiral Junction is strategically positioned at 2620 California Ave. SW at the intersection of Admiral Wy. and California Ave., West Seattle’s primary commercial arterial. This prime location offers excellent visibility in one of Seattle’s most desirable neighborhoods, known for its convenient access to downtown employment centers, stunning water views and neighborhood charm.

The 67,992-square-foot retail center is 100% leased and includes a 60,876-square-foot Safeway store and a 7,116-square-foot retail shoppes building. The property features a strong tenant mix with Safeway representing 82% of the property. The Safeway store reports impressive sales ranking as the #1 grocer in West Seattle based on foot traffic.

JLL Capital Market’s Investment Sales and Advisory team was led by Managing Director Daniel Tyner and Senior Managing Directors Geoff Tranchina, Gleb Lvovich, and Zach Koucos.

“Admiral Junction represented a rare opportunity to acquire an infill core grocery-anchored asset in West Seattle with a strong performing grocer,” said Tyner. “The property’s exceptional location, strong demographics and stability made it an attractive opportunity for the buyer.”

“We are grateful to be a part of Silver Star Ventures’ first retail acquisition,” added Koucos. “With high barriers to entry and limited development opportunity in West Seattle, Admiral Junction presents a great opportunity for Silver Star in the years to come.” …

About Silver Star Ventures

Silver Star Ventures was created in 2024 to implement the Zilis family real estate investment strategy. The business plan centers on the acquisition of core assets in the grocer-anchored shopping center and multifamily sectors. Ancillary investments include land acquisition and speculative single-family development. The entity is 100% self-funded by the Zilis family.

Regarding the center being referred to as “Admiral Junction” (a la “Westwood Village,” “Jefferson Square,” etc.), we had never really heard that in common use, but did happen onto this unfinished website that seems to have been from a template used by the previous owner.

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BIZNOTES: Paddling (with or without pirates), fashion, fast food
June 26, 2025 12:57 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

Three biznotes so far today:

(Photo courtesy Alki Kayak Tours)

ALKI KAYAK PADDLE CLUB + PIRATE PADDLING: Alki Kayak Tours (WSB sponsor) has two announcements:

Alki Kayak Tours just launched the Paddle Club, which includes:

1. Your choice between 3 tours or specialty classes, Mix and match system
2. 50% off Rentals
3. Exclusive Paddle Events and Special Discounts for Paddle Club Members.

Adult (13+): $299
Child (12 and younger): $250

Here’s how to join. In addition to the Paddle Club, we will be hosting an event for the Seafair Pirates Landing this Saturday on Alki – info and registration here.

Alki Kayak Tours offers rentals and tours from its headquarters at Seacrest (1660 Harbor SW).

FASHION POP-UP: West Seattle has few options for clothes shopping so you might be interested in this planned pop-up. Fauntleroy Schoolhouse (9131 California SW) will host a Cabi pop-up on Saturday (June 26), 10:30 am-1:30 pm, described as a curated sale by multiple Cabi stylists. Our calendar listing has full details.

FAST-FOOD FOLLOWUP: Last week we reported that the ex-KFC/A&W at 10050 16th SW in White Center is becoming a Wendy’s. We asked the company for more info and have finally heard back. They forwarded a statement from the franchisee:

WTC Ventures is excited to open our first Wendy’s restaurant at this location in White Center early this fall, bringing our fresh, famous food to more people in the community. This restaurant will be designed to meet the needs of our customers’ digital ordering preferences complete with kiosks, dedicated mobile and delivery pick-up points, and an enhanced drive-thru experience.

According to the franchisee’s website, WTC Ventures runs more than 90 Wendy’s in North America.

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FERRIES: Here’s exactly how and when the upcoming Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth 3-boat service restoration will happen
June 26, 2025 11:14 am
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   Fauntleroy | Transportation | West Seattle news

(‘Live’ camera image from Fauntleroy dock)

In four days, Washington State Ferries plans to restore the Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth route to a full three-boat schedule, after years of reduced service. We asked WSF spokesperson Justin Fujioka exactly how the transition will be made. First, the boats – all three will be Issaquah class for starters, optimal for the schedule: “Issaquah is scheduled to replace Salish this weekend so Salish can go up to Port Townsend and prepare to enter service as that route’s second boat on July 4. We are planning to have that boat, plus Kittitas and Cathlamet, for most of our summer sailing season. The one exception is, Sealth is scheduled to replace Cathlamet for about a month starting in mid-August so Cathlamet can go in for some scheduled maintenance.” M/V Issaquah’s capacity – 124 cars – is almost double that of M/V Salish (which has been the “bonus boat” on the run for a while now), 64 cars. We also asked when the schedule change would take effect: “The new three-boat schedule will begin with the start of the sailing day on Monday, June 30. We will operate the entire sailing day Sunday, June 29, on the current two-boat weekend schedule, even departures after midnight.” Fujioka says that while they had some hoopla for the recent Bremerton service restoration, including a media event featuring the governor, that will NOT be happening for this restoration – WSF will just send out a reminder on Friday, including “details about the new updated backup two-boat schedule.” Comments about that schedule were requested back in April, as we reported with first word of the three-boat-service-restoration date.

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Here’s our list for your West Seattle Thursday!
June 26, 2025 9:58 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Orca seen from Duwamish Head at 8 pm Wednesday, photo by Robin Sinner)

Here’s what’s on the list for your West Seattle Thursday, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: Gardening season continues! The center is open Thursdays-Saturdays 10 am-3 pm, north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus.

HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK: Open today and every day through Labor Day, 11 am-8 pm. Free. (1100 SW Cloverdale)

NO WADING POOLS: The city says it’s keeping the wading pools closed today because cool, showery weather is likely this afternoon.

COLMAN POOL CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC: No public swimming at Colman Pool today because of a swim meet, first of three days. Public swimming is scheduled to resume Sunday (June 29).

CAR WASH FUNDRAISER: As previewed here, the Hope Lutheran youth group is raising money for upcoming travel by washing cars – free, donations accepted – noon to 5 pm today. (41st/Oregon)

LOW-LOW TIDE: Out to -3.7 feet at 12:05 pm!

WEST SEATTLE UKULELE PLAYERS: All levels welcome at this weekly 1 pm gathering. Email westseattleukuleleplayerswsup@gmail.com to get the details of where they’re playing today.

HPCS FOOD-TRUCK VISIT: First of three regular Thursday night events here – every Thursday, 4-8 pm, Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) gets a food-truck visit. Tonight it’s C. Davis Texas BBQ.

WINE TASTING WITH CLARK: Another regular Thursday event at HPCS, 5-7:30 pm – info here.

HIGHLAND PARK RUN CLUB: Last but never least, HPCS is the starting point for running 3 miles, or walking a shorter path, in the neighborhood near HPCS with the Run Club, leaving from the store at 6:30 pm, returning for beverages – info here.

VISCON CELLARS: This West Seattle winery’s friendly tasting room/wine bar is open Thursdays, 5-9 pm (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor). Stop in for wine by the glass or bottle!

LADIES STRONG! AT OUNCES: 5-8 pm celebration of local women in business, at Ounces (3809 Delridge Way SW), with DJ (6 pm), giveaways, more.

PRIDE NIGHT OUT BLOCK PARTIES: 5-8 pm, tonight’s the night, all over the city.

FREE MENDING WORKSHOP: 5 pm at KAVU (9064 Delridge Way SW) – details and RSVP by going here.

WESTIES RUN CLUB, + SHOPPING: This group’s 6 pm weekly Thursday run starts at The Good Society in Admiral (California/Lander). Tonight: A special extra:

West Seattle Runner will be opening their shop to us after our run. They are giving us a 10% discount, a shoe fitting clinic, raffle drawing, snacks, La Croix, and beers from Good Society.

WSR is just down the block at 2743 California SW.

WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Prefer to walk? Meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fauntleroy for tonight’s group walk – details in our calendar listing.

INFODUMP OPEN-MIC NIGHT: 6 pm:

Don’t Get Me Started: Infodump Open Mic Night

June 26th, 6:00-7:30 at Delridge Branch of Seattle Public Library, 5423 Delridge Way SW

An event for Autistic and ADHD folks of all ages! Infodumping is a beloved part of neurodivergent culture. We want to celebrate one of our favorite ways to communicate!

More details in our calendar listing.

LIVE MUSIC IN THE JUNCTION: 6-9 pm, Patrick Rifflin performs Thursdays at Pegasus Pizza in The Junction (4520 California SW).

ALKI COMMUNITY COUNCIL: 7 pm, in-person only this month, at Alki UCC (6115 SW Hinds). Agenda items include public safety and community events.

(added) BETTER AS BRASS REHEARSAL: 7-9 pm, Jack Block Park (near first parking lot): Come hear Better As Brass as we rehearse outside during the summer months!

MORBIDLY CURIOUS BOOK CLUB: This month’s book is “Trail of the Lost“; club meets at 7 pm at Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW).

‘THE EFFECT’ AT ARTSWEST: Second week begins for new ArtsWest production “The Effect“ at 7:30 pm. Check here for tickets. (4711 California SW)

DJ NIGHT: The weekend spinning starts early at Revelry Room (4547 California SW), with DJ Kingblind & Teenage Rampage, 8 pm.

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!

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WEEKEND PREVIEW: Outdoors for All brings adaptive-cycling options to West Seattle this Sunday
June 26, 2025 9:00 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Transportation | West Seattle news

(WSB photo, June 2024)

Before we get to today’s event list, we wanted to mention one of this weekend’s unique happenings: For the third consecutive summer, Outdoors for All is bringing adaptive-cycling alternatives to West Seattle. Different location this time – Don Armeni Boat Ramp (1222 Harbor SW). The event is set for 10 am-2 pm on Sunday (June 29), with options including tandem trikes, therapy trikes, recumbent bikes, and hand cycles; no RSVP needed, just show up. Here’s the event flyer.

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER: Thursday info
June 26, 2025 6:03 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:03 AM: Good morning! Welcome to the first Thursday of summer, June 26, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Cloudy, chance of showers, high near 65. Today’s sunrise was at 5:13 am; sunset will be at 9:11 pm, as late as it gets (and there through Saturday).

TRANSIT TODAY

Metro buses – Regular schedule today.

Washington State Ferries – Regular service on the Triangle Route, with M/V Kittitas and M/V Cathlamet. M/V Salish serves as the “bonus boat”. Four days until three-boat service is expected to relaunch (next Monday, June 30).

Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle service; spring/summer schedule, with later runs on Friday and Saturday nights, plus weeknights with Mariners home games (and some other events) …

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:

Low Bridge – Looking west:

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!

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FOLLOWUP: See inside opening-soon Southgate Arcade, and see how the building’s history factors in
June 25, 2025 10:57 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | White Center

Story and photos by Hayden Yu Andersen
for West Seattle Blog

As we first reported last week, the Southgate Arcade will open July 11, offering vintage games, rare pinball machines and a greatly expanded private room for birthdays and events. With opening day just two weeks away, we got a sneak peek today inside the upcoming arcade, built inside the former Bank of America just north of Southgate Roller Rink.

Owner Josh Rhoads says it’s been a unique challenge to turn the building, which they had previously used for storage, into a functioning arcade.

“It spent four years as just a storage space, so we focused on trying to make it less sterile and bank-like,” Rhoads said, as he showed off the two-inch thick bulletproof glass protecting the teller’s station, which has since been repurposed into a storage room.

Something he won’t be covering up is the vault. Located to the right of the entrance, the steel vault will be repurposed to hold a rotating cast of more exclusive arcade machines, which visitors will be able to play while inside.

Currently the arcade has almost 30 machines, split between pinball and vintage arcade machines, with a few more on the way before their opening. The machines, much like the music, have been tailored to fit an ’80s and ’90s vibe.

A large portion of the space has been given to the 30-person private room, which is still waiting on finishing touches, including a wall-sized screen projector for games and karaoke. Previously we wrote about how this will expand on the 10-person private room in the Southgate Roller Rink. In addition to the 2-hour rentals, and the option of alcohol from the Southgate Roller Rink’s bar for 21+ events, Rhoads says that on days the room isn’t being used arcade-goers will be able to rent out the room for short, 30-minute intervals to figure out if they’d like to host a party or rent it for longer.

While it’s been a challenge, Rhoads says he’s excited to finally see it come together. Southgate Arcade will be open for all-ages play on Fridays from 5-11 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 7 pm.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Stolen white Honda Passport
June 25, 2025 6:21 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Reported by Nathan:

Wanted to report a stolen 1998 white Honda Passport in North Admiral on Massachusetts St. last night.

SPD incident # 25-176396
License: WA Plates ANH6353

This isn’t the exact car but looks just like (it).

If you find it, call 911, and refer to the incident number above.

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BIZNOTE: Lake Washington Physical Therapy West Seattle expanding, celebrating 4th anniversary
June 25, 2025 5:28 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   Health | West Seattle news

Longtime WSB sponsor Lake Washington Physical Therapy West Seattle has updates including an added location and added services! Here are the details, from LWPTWS proprietor Mark Bouma:

Celebrating Four Years in West Seattle!

(Lake Washington Physical Therapy West Seattle photos)

Lake Washington Physical Therapy West Seattle is celebrating its four-year anniversary! To show our appreciation, we hosted Patient Appreciation Week, recognizing the incredible community that has supported us since day one. Thank you!

New Fauntleroy Clinic Opening Soon!

We’re expanding! On July 8th, 2025, we’ll open our new Fauntleroy Clinic inside The Kenney (7125 Fauntleroy Ave SW, 3rd Floor), bringing specialized care closer to you. Alison Read (above with LWPT’s Mark Bouma), PT DPT CEEAA Cert-MMOA, will serve as the clinic director, focusing on older adults, individuals with balance impairments, and those experiencing mobility limitations. We offer 1:1 care and 55-minute appointments. Medicare and most insurances accepted. You can book an appointment HERE or call us at 206-906-9207. Click HERE to watch an intro video with Alison!

New Specialized Services

We are proud to introduce new specialized treatments at our clinics, including:

–Dry Needling with Amanda Ford, PT DPT FDNS to improve functionality and relieve pain and tension.

–Musculoskeletal Diagnostic Ultrasound & Biofeedback with Maxwell Ngo, PT DPT, for quick and readily available imaging results and enhanced, informed care.

–Professional Bike Fitting with Erin Heald, PT DPT, ensuring optimal cycling performance.

Supporting Local Soccer Teams

We’re passionate about keeping athletes healthy and in top form! Our clinical team is working alongside Junction FC and Rhodies FC, providing expert care during training and games. Find out why our team of clinicians are trusted by these athletes to keep them playing at their best! Keep an eye out for our tent at upcoming matches — we’d love to see you there!

Expanding Availability at Our Alki Location

To better serve the West Seattle community, we are expanding our hours and adding new clinicians at our Alki location later this Summer. Need an early morning or weekend appointment? We’ve got you covered! Join us in welcoming Jordan Samford, PT DPT MS, Ben Clark, PT DPT, and Olivia Dominguez, PT DPT to our Alki team!

The main location of LWPTWS remains at 1309 Harbor SW.

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