West Seattle, Washington

05 Saturday

52℉

Spotlight Stories


  • Closed

    NEW RESTAURANT: What’s replacing Duke’s

  • Sign

    FINALLY A SIGN: One year after our first story!

  • Registration

    WS GARAGE SALE DAY: Registration now open!

YOU CAN HELP: Denny-Sealth Performing Arts fundraiser extended
March 3, 2025 12:30 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   How to help | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools | WS culture/arts

An arts program serving two schools has just extended its fundraiser – here’s the donation invitation we were asked to share with you:

(Photo courtesy Jaeney Hoene)

Support Denny-Sealth Performing Arts!

We are inviting all community members to use the Snapraise links below to support the performing arts at Denny International Middle School and Chief Sealth International High School. Our amazing performing arts programs need your support to provide coaching, instruments, uniforms, maintenance and repair, and performance/competition opportunities for students.

We just passed the $10,000 mark with a goal of $15,000. Help us reach our goal!

Last day to contribute is Tuesday, March 11!

Denny International Middle School – https://raise.snap.app/donate/denny-middle-school-music-booster-2025

Chief Sealth IHS – https://raise.snap.app/donate/chief-sealth-intl-music-booster-2025

If you are a local business or community member wondering how you can support our programs directly, please contact DSPA co-chairs, Mary Wiener (mary_r_wiener@yahoo.com) and Jaeney Hoene (jaeney@me.com)

Share This

From stories to support, here’s the list for your West Seattle Monday
March 3, 2025 9:54 am
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Some daffodils are blooming! Photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)

Here’s what’s happening (and not happening) for the rest of today, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

COURTS CLOSED: Seattle Parks sent an alert this morning that the tennis and pickleball courts at High Point Community Center are closed through Thursday for annual maintenance.

BABY STORY TIME: Noon at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW).

GIRL SCOUT COOKIE BOOTHS: This year’s Girl Scout Cookie in-person sales continue today, after school! Go here to look for a cookie booth near you – multiple troops are selling at various spots, during various time slots, in West Seattle. (Is your troop out selling cookies? Send a pic – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!)

HOMEWORK HELP: Drop-in time for students to work with volunteer homework helpers at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), 4-5:45 pm.

GET CRAFTY: 6-10 pm, Monday is “Crafting and Creativity Night” at The Missing Piece (9456 35th SW), info here.

D&D: Weekly D&D at 6:30 pm at Meeples Games (3727 California SW). All welcome, first-time players included!

LISTENING TO GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP: 6:30 pm with Tamara Kubacki, meeting at Mama Be Well Healing Studio (4034 California SW). “Grief groups are brave and safe spaces where bereaved people can share their stories and speak their loved one’s name without fear of getting advice, platitudes, or being shut out, no matter how long it’s been since their loved one’s passing.” – you can attend once or multiple times. Fee. Preregistration requested – our calendar listing explains how.

MONDAY NIGHT TRIVIA: Three places to play tonight! … 7 pm at The Good Society (California/Lander); 7 and 8 pm Sporcle Pub Quiz at Three 9 Lounge (4505 39th SW); 7:30 pm with QuizFix at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW)

MEDITATION AT ALKI UCC: It’s back, every Monday. Doors open at 6:45, meeting is from 7-8:30. (6115 SW Hinds)

MEDITATION IN FAUNTLEROY: More Monday night meditating – free weekly Zen sitting/meditation in the chapel at Fauntleroy UCC (9140 California SW), 7 pm-8:30 pm.

MUSIC AT THE ALLEY: The Alley features music on Monday nights, jazz with The Westside Trio, 8 pm at The Alley (behind 4509 California SW), 21+, no cover.

MONDAY KARAOKE 9 pm Monday night, sing your heart out during karaoke at Talarico’s Pizzeria (4718 California SW).

Thanks to everyone who contributes listings to our calendar – if you have something to add or cancel (or otherwise update), please send the info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

Share This

Life-saving lessons for parents this Thursday
March 3, 2025 9:00 am
|    Comments Off on Life-saving lessons for parents this Thursday
 |   Health | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

Before we get to what’s happening today/tonight, here’s a note about a chance to learn life-saving lessons this Thursday night at West Seattle High School:

WSHS will be hosting our 8th annual Forefront Suicide Prevention Parent Night, Thursday, March 6th, from 6-8 pm in the WSHS library. This parent night will focus on learning the stats and risk factors for teen suicide, as well as teaching parents active listening skills and how to listen to their teens with empathy. Preventing death by suicide is everyone’s job- from school staff to parents, friends and the community as a whole. WSHS has partnered with Forefront in the Schools to educate our entire West Seattle community on suicide and how we, as a team, play a role in prevention.

Please RSVP at the following link: Forefront Parent Night RSVP

RSVP is recommended, not required. Questions? Contact School Counselor Mallory Neuman at mlneuman@seattleschools.org

Share This

TRAFFIC, WEATHER, ROAD WORK, TRANSIT: First Monday in March
March 3, 2025 6:00 am
|    Comments Off on TRAFFIC, WEATHER, ROAD WORK, TRANSIT: First Monday in March
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:00 AM: Good morning! It’s Monday, March 3, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES + TIME-CHANGE COUNTDOWN

Forecast toplines – cloudy, showers expected, high in the low 50s. Today’s sunrise/sunset – 6:45 am and 5:57 pm. First 6 pm sunset of the year will be Wednesday, but don’t get used to the 6 pm times, because this Saturday night/Sunday morning is when we “spring forward” an hour, and suddenly sunsets will be after 7 pm.

(Weekend sunset, photographed by Chris Frankovich)

ROAD WORK UPDATES

-The Admiral Way Bridge remains in flux.

-The 35th/Edmunds sinkhole has been patched.

-Weekend work replaced a concrete panel (photo above) at the southeast corner of Fauntleroy/Alaska.

-In White Center, work starts today on SW 104th east of 16th SW. By mid-month, that intersection will be closed for work

TRANSIT TODAY

Metro buses – Regular schedule. Note that the NB California/Fauntleroy stop is scheduled to be closed this week because of “construction,” with riders told to use a temporary California/Graham stop instead.

Water Taxi – Regular schedule.

Washington State Ferries – Regular service on the Triangle Route, with M/V Kittitas and M/V Cathlamet, plus M/V serving as the “bonus boat.”

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

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

Spokane Street Viaduct – This view usually looks westward, with eastbound lanes at left and westbound lanes at right:

Low Bridge – Looking west:

1st Avenue South Bridge:

Delridge cameras: Besides 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!

Share This

WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Harbor Avenue assault (updated Monday night); Highland Park double-impact hit-run
March 2, 2025 8:45 pm
|      8 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Two more West Seattle Crime Watch reports, both involving drivers:

HARBOR AVENUE ASSAULT: This was dispatched as a crash (“motor vehicle incident” as logged by SFD) shortly before 11 pm last night, but a summary released by police says it turned out to be more:

At 2248 hours, the suspect randomly confronted the victims at the 1000 BLK of Harbor Ave SW. The suspect got in a disturbance with two unknown victims. The suspect made a threat to the victims. The victims drove away from the suspect to prevent further confrontation. The suspect was inside his vehicle and accelerated toward the victims’ vehicle. The suspect’s vehicle struck the back of the victims’ vehicle. The victims had injuries, and SFD responded to the scene. AMR transported the victim to the hospital. The suspect was placed in custody for Assault 2, DUI, and Obstructing. The suspect will be booked for Assault 2, and charges will be requested for the DUI and Obstructing.

The SPD case # is 25-56778. (Monday night update: Bail was set at $20,000 for the suspect. We haven’t seen case documents yet, though, so we don’t know if there’s more to the story, yet.)

DOUBLE-IMPACT HIT-RUN: The report and images were sent tonight by Tom:

On Sunday 3/2/2025 at 9:25 am, a white Cadillac Escalade driven by what appears to be a white male pulled out into the street from where he was parked and drove into my Subaru Crosstrek parked in front of my house on the 7500 blk of 15th Ave SW.

He hit it twice with enough force to move my car 6 inches until it hit the curb. The white Cadillac Escalade is a 2002-2006 model year with scrape marks on the front bumper driver side and probably damage to the right front bumper area. Front license plate appears to be missing and the rear license plate is covered or blacked out. Any additional information on this character would be greatly appreciated. SPD report # 25-57165.

Share This

WEEK AHEAD: Free food @ West Seattle/Fauntleroy YMCA’s Annual Fund Drive Kickoff this Wednesday
March 2, 2025 6:33 pm
|    Comments Off on WEEK AHEAD: Free food @ West Seattle/Fauntleroy YMCA’s Annual Fund Drive Kickoff this Wednesday
 |   Fauntleroy | How to help | West Seattle news

Looking ahead to one of this week’s big events, here’s a reminder that the West Seattle/Fauntleroy YMCA (WSB sponsor) invites you to the annual fund-drive kickoff on Wednesday (March 5):

We are days away from the West Seattle and Fauntleroy Annual Fund Drive Kick-off event! Come join us at the Fauntleroy YMCA for an evening of food and drinks, and to learn more about the amazing work being done at the Y, along with what is possible with your support.

This is a free event for the community, RSVPs are required.

When: March 5th, 6:00 pm-7:30 pm
Where: Fauntleroy YMCA Fellowship Hall, 9140 California Ave SW
Who: Everyone in our community
Perks: Meet your neighbors, learn more about the YMCA, Free food!

RSVP here: linktr.ee/WestSeattleYMCA

If you are unable to attend, you can still give to the West Seattle and Fauntleroy YMCA here: seattleymca.org/give/donate/west-seattle-fauntleroy-ymca

This flyer explains the Y’s goals and plans for the annual fundraising campaign.

Share This

WEST SEATTLE SCENE: Third day of in-person sales for Girl Scout Cookies
March 2, 2025 4:14 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle people

(WSB photo)

During today’s West Seattle Farmers’ Market, we found members of Girl Scout Troop 40622 selling cookies outside Easy Street Records – one of many spots you can buy them in-person for the next two weeks. Many troops are at supermarkets – Troop 41268 sent this photo and report from Admiral Safeway during their first cookie-booth shift on Friday afternoon:

Our Brownie troop 41268 got a special customer who happened to be shopping at Safeway Admiral!

You can use this lookup to find your nearest cookie booths. Scouts are listed as selling cookies until 8 tonight, for example, at many local grocery stores, including West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor), both QFCs, all three Safeways, and Trader Joe’s; a cookie booth is also on the schedule at Marination ma kai on Seacrest Pier until 5:30 pm. This year’s cookies are $6/box and Scouts are using their proceeds for a variety of projects – Troop 40622, for example, is mostly interested in “helping animals,” we were told.

(We welcome photos from troops and customers during cookie season – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!)

Share This

WHALES: Orcas in Elliott Bay again – close to shore (video, photos added)
March 2, 2025 3:34 pm
|      12 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | Whales

3:34 PM: Transient killer whales have been in this area for the better part of four weeks now, notes Kersti Muul, in telling us a moment ago that they’re in Elliott Bay again – north side of the bay, heading southbound quickly. Let us know if you see them (and thanks to those who sent photos on Saturday!).

7:10 PM: Added photos above and below, sent by Bob Spears (thank you!).

7:52 PM: And here’s video by Vineta Jackson showing the orcas so close to shore, they were practically in touching distance (don’t try that, ever, though!):

That was at Don Armeni Boat Ramp (added – Eilene Hutchinson‘s photo below shows the context:)

ADDED: David Hutchinson sent these photos from that same sighting:

Share This

WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Kids’ bike stolen outside church (update: found!)
March 2, 2025 2:00 pm
|      5 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

2 PM: Sent by Katie:

Our 5-year-old’s bike was stolen this morning from outside our church at 39th and Thistle, in case anyone happens to see it around. It’s a bronze-colored Woom bike (20” OFF 4 mountain bike).

6:34 PM: Katie’s family has the bicycle back. Here’s how it happened (as partly explained in a comment below, and fully explained to us in email):

I spotted a woman riding the bike while leaving the Roxbury Safeway around 4:30 p.m.. I followed her until she reached a small homeless encampment near Westwood Village, at 22nd Ave SW and Barton. She parked the bike and walked away from it at that point. I was on the phone with police throughout all this. I then drove home, thinking the bike would be there until the police arrived, but even though they arrived quite quickly, the bike was gone. The officers, Sean and Sean, continued to be in touch with me and look for the bike, and they found it after about an hour. My son is very happy to have it back home. We’re really thankful to the SPD officers for going the extra mile to track it down.

Share This

Beach naturalist program will be back, Seattle Aquarium says, but with changes
March 2, 2025 12:33 pm
|      18 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle beaches | West Seattle news

(File photo)

By Anne Higuera
Reporting for West Seattle Blog

“It’s not cancelled.”

That’s the word from the Seattle Aquarium, which confirmed to WSB that its popular Beach Naturalist program will be back at select Puget Sound waterfront parks this summer, albeit with changes. Staff that worked on the program were among a dozen Aquarium employees laid off last month to address a budget shortfall, and the program has been on “pause” since then, spurring fears from volunteers and others that the program would be shuttered. Some contacted WSB with their concerns, so we looked into it.

For 20+ years, the naturalist program has trained hundreds of volunteers to meet park users at the tideline to safely observe and learn about starfish, sea slugs, and other aquatic life that becomes visible as the tide recedes. Lincoln Park and Constellation Park in West Seattle have been among the consistent locations over the years, with school field trips and other groups joining the throngs of park visitors to see the lowest tides of the year and on other selected days.

Aquarium spokesperson Tim Kuniholm describes the program as a “beloved tradition” that is valued for its connections to the community, but also one that will benefit from some changes that are “long overdue.” He says the Aquarium team assessing the program is, among other things, looking at new connections “working with community partners in more diverse communities.” Specifics are not yet available, though Kuniholm confirmed, “It will look different.”

(File photo)

Typically, volunteer training starts in March, but that is also on pause until the program details are finalized. The Aquarium is expecting to have more to share soon about how the program will operate in 2025. The beach naturalists have traditionally been out during the lowest daytime tides of the warm months (last year, the events started in May), with a few nighttime low-tide events too.

If you have comments about the program, the Seattle Aquarium is a nonprofit, overseen by a board of directors whose membership and contact info is here.

Share This

Remembering Georgia the Wonder Dog, 2020-2024
March 2, 2025 10:57 am
|      10 COMMENTS
 |   Obituaries | Pets | West Seattle news

We have long published West Seattle obituaries free of charge. Every so often, we receive one for a beloved pet. (We published one of our own a few years ago.) Today, the family of Georgia the Wonder Dog wants to tell her story:

Blessed with a beautiful black shaggy tuxedo coat and a good-natured demeanor, all kids – and most adults – loved her personality passionately. They could see the connection and affection deep in her brown, human-like eyes.

Georgia was big with huge paws and could have easily been mistaken for a giant muppet or a small child stuck in a black bear costume.

She was large on loyalty and ripe with a unique canine-level of FOMO. She loved her family fiercely and always wanted them together. She was a consummate herder; if the kids ran ahead on the way to the West Seattle Sunday Farmers Market, or zipped past her on their wheels, she would pull the leash like an Iditarod champion — yelping and whining to get to them.

She was legitimately scared of the dark and only liked going around half the block late at night. She was spooked by the wind and flags flapping in it befuddled her. A Great Dane charged its fence once looking to play but she skirted away so fast, she knocked me flat on my back instead.

You might have heard Georgia barking at your dog from our deck or saw her carrying too-big-of-sticks in a lopsided fashion around the blocks near Olympia Coffee.

Whatever it was, it was all personality with Georgia. She would come to my side of the bed to give me kisses and wake me up. Because she was too big to turn around she had to back out past the wall and the edge of the bed slowly like one of those trucks that beeps in reverse.

She loved ball toss, lying in tall grass, snuggling the kids, lying on her back on the couch, playing in the snow, eating Zuks salmon treats from Next to Nature (and perhaps stealing a treat or two from the bulk bins … shhh), and running free with her dog walker Sue and her Tuesday off-leash pals.

She chased blackbirds and squirrels but her true obsession was bunny rabbits. She never did get one.

Sadly, Georgia passed away from an infection she couldn’t beat on December 9th, 2024.

We tried so hard to save her. She was our BFF (Best Fur Friend) and will be missed forever and ever.

We love you, Georgia dog!

—

Special thanks to Drs. Wolfe and Wood and staff at Lien Vet Clinic as well as Dr. Ravi and dog whisperer-extraordinaire Adrienne at Animal Medical Center of Seattle for all their efforts and professionalism. Please consider donating any amount to an Emergency Vet Assistance program like redrover.org

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

Share This

WEST SEATTLE SUNDAY: 18 notes!
March 2, 2025 6:07 am
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(‘Fogbow’ photographed from Lincoln Park by Barbara Spector)

From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, here’s info for your Sunday:

TRAFFIC ALERT: As noted here, the Hot Chocolate Run downtown will close part of Highway 99 this morning.

GIRL SCOUT COOKIE BOOTHS: This year’s Girl Scout Cookie in-person sales continue today! Go here to look for a cookie booth near you – multiple troops are selling at various spots, during various time slots, in West Seattle. (Is your troop out selling cookies? Send a pic – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!)

WESTIES RUN CLUB: For today’s run, meet at 9 am at Caffe Ladro. (7011 California SW)

AMERICAN MAH JONGG: Meet up with other players – all levels – 9:30-11:30 am at The Missing Piece. (35th/Roxbury)

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: Open 10 am-2 pm, with winter produce (root vegetables! greens! cabbage! apples!) and beverages, flowers, cheese, yogurt, fish, meat, prepared hot food, baked goods, nuts, dried peppers, garlic, candy, condiments, more. (California SW between SW Alaska and SW Oregon)

ORGANIST HONORED: As previewed here, this morning’s 10 am service at Tibbetts United Methodist Church (3940 41st SW) will include a celebration of its long-serving organist John Van Lierop Jr.

BEE GARDEN WORK PARTY: 10 am-noon, first West Seattle Bee Garden work party of the year!

Our jobs:
General garden cleanup

What to bring/wear:
Your gardening spirit (no experience necessary)
Water bottle
Close-toed shoes
Dress for the weather
We have a selection of gardening tools and gloves available, but if you have a favorite from home, please bring it, we love learning about folks’ favorite tools.

So many thanks for your support of our community garden!

(Graham/Lanham)

DUWAMISH TRIBE LONGHOUSE & CULTURAL CENTER: The Longhouse is open for visitors, 10 am-5 pm. (4705 W. Marginal Way SW)

WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Need a tool to get your project going, or to finish assembling a holiday gift? Borrow it from the Tool Library, open 11 am-4 pm on the northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

COMMUNITY CLOG-DANCING LESSONS: First of three Sundays with 1 pm lessons at Alki UCC (6115 SW Hinds).

FAT SUNDAY WITH JAMBALAYA AND JAZZ: Everybody welcome! 1 pm at Admiral Church, lunch and music. (4320 SW Hill)

SUNDAY CRIBBAGE: At the West Seattle Eagles‘ HQ, 2 pm, tournament play for more advanced players. Non-members welcome too. (4426 California SW)

WELCOME ROAD WINERY: West Seattle tasting room open 2-5 pm, kids and dogs welcome. (3804 California SW; WSB sponsor)

MENDING WITH WEST SEATTLE TIMEBANK: Bring your own small projects and supplies to Elizabeth House (3201 SW Graham), 3-6 pm – details in our calendar listing.

MUSICIANS FOR THE WEST SEATTLE FOOD BANK: Bring money and/or nonperishable food donations to C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor) in honor of today’s 3-5 pm performance by Christy McWilson and Jasper Tollefson.

‘COVENANT’ CLOSES: Closing performance for ArtsWest‘s play, 3 pm, is sold out per playhouse website.

ASTRA LUMINA: Three more weeks to catch the celestially inspired light show on the grounds of the Seattle Chinese Garden at the north end of the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus. Tonight, 6 pm and later admission times. Tickets and info here.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE ALLEY: Sunday nights feature music with the Triangular Jazztet at The Alley (behind 4509 California SW) – 8-10 pm.

Are you planning, organizing, and/or publicizing something that should be on our community event calendar – one-time or recurring? Please email us the basic details – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

Share This

VIDEO: Overflow crowd for poetry! Madison MS students’ salon hosted at West Seattle Realty
March 1, 2025 9:46 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

(Photo courtesy West Seattle Realty’s Kevin Broveleit)

That was just part of the crowd filling the West Seattle Realty (WSB sponsor) front-room event space last night, as Madison Middle School presented the first of two “community poetry salons.” Dozens of students presented poems they’d memorized. Educator Robin Russell described it as “a celebration of both poetry and the tenacity it takes to excel at the skill of memorization and the art of recitation.” We were there for part of the salon and recorded a sampling of student readings, with poems both contemporary and classic:

If you weren’t part of last night’s overflow crowd, good news – they’re doing it again in two weeks, at 2 pm Sunday, March 16. West Seattle Realty is on the ground floor of the Admiral Station Apartments, across from Hiawatha, at 2715 California SW.

Share This

Those are fireworks, not gunshots
March 1, 2025 8:49 pm
|      14 COMMENTS
 |   Fauntleroy | Gatewood | West Seattle news | Westwood

If you’ve heard the booms from Gatewood, Upper Fauntleroy, Westwood, etc., those are fireworks, not gunshots. We’ve heard them all, and police in the area have seen them. We’re just mentioning it because we’ve gotten a few texts and dispatchers/calltakers say they’re getting deluged.

Share This

BIZNOTE FOLLOWUP: Ex-Bel Gatto equipment to be auctioned off
March 1, 2025 6:54 pm
|      10 COMMENTS
 |   Fauntleroy | West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

The future of the Fauntleroy space that was briefly Bel Gatto and long The Original Bakery remains a question mark. Andrea sent us the link to an online auction of the space’s bakery and café equipment, to be held March 11-18 by veteran auctioneers James G. Murphy Co. After closing Bel Gatto in January, less than a year after opening the bakery/café next to his company’s restaurant Endolyne Joe’s, Peter Levy of Chow Foods told WSB, “There is no decision yet as to what we will be doing with the space that housed the bakery.” That sounded as if he and his company would decide its future, but when we contacted him after learning about the auction, he replied, “I am not sure of what the future use of the space will be. The Landlord will be making that determination.” We’re working to reach the building’s owners to find out if they plan to offer the space for lease. The online auction, meantime, is offering almost 60 items/groups of items, from “assorted plates” to a donut fryer to pizza ovens to bakery display cases/shelving.

Share This

SUNDAY TRAFFIC ALERT: Part of Highway 99 closing for Hot Chocolate Run
March 1, 2025 5:30 pm
|    Comments Off on SUNDAY TRAFFIC ALERT: Part of Highway 99 closing for Hot Chocolate Run
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

If you’re headed to North Seattle or beyond via Highway 99 on Sunday, this alert is for you:

Northbound State Route 99 in Seattle between Republican Street and North 50th Street will close from 6 to 11 a.m. Sunday, March 2 for the Hot Chocolate Run event. People using the SR 99 tunnel will have to exit at Republican Street.

Additionally, the southbound SR 99 exit to eastbound Harrison Street will close. People can still exit to westbound Harrison Street.

People traveling through Seattle Sunday morning should use alternate routes or expect delays and detours.

The race is affecting some downtown surface streets too.

Share This

COUNTDOWN: One week until Special Olympics of Washington Polar Plunge party @ Alki
March 1, 2025 3:23 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Fun stuff to do | How to help | West Seattle news

(WSB photo, 2020 Polar Plunge)

Next Saturday (March 8), around Alki Bathhouse, you can expect a lively celebration as the Special Olympics of Washington‘s fundraising Polar Plunge returns. The only thing this has in common with the New Year’s Day Polar Bear Swim is that if you participate, you go into the chilly waters of Elliott Bay – but this one happens in waves, not in one giant group. And even if you’re not plunging, you’re invited to enjoy food trucks and a beer garden (details on that are here). It’ll be an all-day party at the beach (starting around 11 am), including a costume contest for plungers (12:15 pm). Here’s where to sign up (individuals or teams) to be part of the Plunging (which starts at 1 pm).

Share This

WEEKEND WHALE-WATCHING: Orcas off West Seattle (photos added)
March 1, 2025 12:29 pm
|      11 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | Whales

12:29 PM: Just in from Kersti Muul, a report of “orcas close to shore northbound, heading toward Me-Kwa-Mooks” (Emma Schmitz Memorial Overlook, 4500 block Beach Drive). Let us know if you see them!

1:15 PM: Now approaching Constellation Park, per Kersti.

5:14 PM: Thanks to David Hutchinson for the photo above, taken today as the orcas left Elliott Bay.

6:57 PM: And thanks to Robin Sinner for sending this photo, also taken today:

Share This

TRAFFIC ALERT: Fauntleroy/Alaska work
March 1, 2025 12:25 pm
|      8 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

You might want to avoid Fauntleroy/Alaska this afternoon, particularly if you’re heading toward the intersection from eastbound Alaska – the work crew that’s currently at the southeast corner has narrowed the lanes, so there’s a backup. Here’s a surface-level look at what they’re doing right now:

Some buses are rerouted off that stretch of Alaska because of the work, too, and the Metro advisory says that could last all weekend.

Share This

WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Home-invasion burglary
March 1, 2025 10:43 am
|      24 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

10:43 AM: Reader report from a resident on 26th SW north of Roxbury who called this in to 911 around 4 pm Friday:

I was not feeling well and was asleep when I was awakened by a woman with a flashlight coming into my room. I chased her down stairs and caught her as she was fleeing out my front door. This is when a male accomplice came back and pushed me while demanding I let her go.

The police did not see a point of entry. Since, the doors were open and undamaged I decided to check my back yard and discovered they had removed a glass panel from a bedroom window as a point of entry. The person that installed my security doors told me that they would never get through one of their doors and it would be more likely that an intruder would come through a window instead.

I immediately noticed that all my keys were gone. This has resulted in my spending a considerable amount of money trying to remedy the situation.

The case number is 25-55434.

The victim did not include descriptive information, so we’re asking on followup.

2:46 PM: Here’s their reply regarding descriptions:

Both of them were in their late 20s to 30 with dark complexions; he was about 5’10” with short black hair and a medium build, dressed in all-black clothing, and he was carrying a paper bag with unknown items.

She was also in her late 20s to 30, about 5’8″ with a dark complexion and black shoulder-length hair and had a medium build and spoke with a slight accent. She was also dressed in all-black clothing. She dropped her flashlight and pair of tin snips while I was chasing her out. The items were turned over to SPD.

Share This

WEST SEATTLE SATURDAY: 28 options!
March 1, 2025 6:07 am
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(The Brothers on Friday, with some receding fog – photo by David Hutchinson)

Here’s what’s happening on your Saturday, mostly from our West Seattle Event Calendar:

GIRL SCOUT COOKIE BOOTHS: This year’s Girl Scout Cookie in-person sales continue today! Go here to look for a cookie booth near you – multiple troops are selling at various spots, during various time slots, in West Seattle. (Is your troop out selling cookies? We’re going to try to get some pics but we welcome yours too – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!)

SATURDAY GROUP RUN: Meet at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) at 8 am for the regular Saturday morning run.

HEAVILY MEDITATED: Free community meditation, 9 am at Inner Alchemy‘s sanctuary/studio (3618 SW Alaska).

VOLUNTEER AT NORTH SHOREWOOD PARK: Give some TLC to this nearby neighborhood gem, 9 am-noon. Info here. (10044 24th SW)

WEST SEATTLE TAE KWON DO CLUB: 9:30 am, this month’s first class at High Point Community Center (6920 34th SW) – info in our calendar listing.

INTRODUCTORY WALK: First of two sequential weekly walking events – meeting at the same spot, 47th/Fauntleroy, 9:30 am, for a flat-terrain 1-mile walk.

WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Then at 10 am, you’re invited to join others for the full weekly walk in Lincoln Park (also meet at 47th/Fauntleroy).

MORNING MUSIC: 10:30 am-noon at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), Marco de Carvalho and Friends perform. Info about Marco’s music is here.

GRIEFSHARE: If you have lost someone close to you, this is for you. Third week of 13-week series today, 10:30 am, Grace Church (10323 28th SW).

FREE WRITING GROUP: 10:30 am – “This is a free, weekly, in-person active writing group grounded in the Amherst Writers and Artists method. It is a safe, critique-free space. Writers of all levels welcome, 16 and up.” Our calendar listing has location and RSVP info.

FAMILY STORY TIME: 10:30-11 am at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), meant for kids 0-5.

.FREE TAX HELP: 11 am-3 pm at West Seattle (Admiral) Library (2306 42nd SW).

FAMILY READING TIME: 11 am family reading time returns at new home of Paper Boat Booksellers (4522 California SW).

LOG HOUSE MUSEUM OPEN: The home of West Seattle history is open for your visit, noon-4 pm – see the newest exhibit, about the West Duwamish Greenbelt! (61st/Stevens)

VIETNAMESE CULTURAL CENTER OPEN: The center is open to visitors noon-3 pm, as explained here. (2236 SW Orchard)

VISCON CELLARS TASTING ROOM/WINE BAR: Tasting room open – wine by the glass or bottle – 1-6 pm at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor).

BASKETBALL TRYOUTS: 1-7:30 pm, multiple sessions for boys and girls by age group, for No Limits Academy at Greenbridge (9800 8th SW) – details here.

LIVE AT KENYON HALL: Mac Potts performs, doors at 2, show at 2:30, all ages; get ticket(s) here. (7904 35th SW)

FREE MASSAGE: Walk-in clinic at Nepenthe (9447 35th SW), 3-5 pm.

FOR FAMILIES WITH BABIES: 3-4:30 pm at Viva Arts (4421 Fauntleroy Way SW) – today, Early Speech Skills and Baby Sign Play Group.

(Crescent moon setting behind Mt. Washington – photo by Dan Ciske)

ASTRA LUMINA: The illuminated walk at Seattle Chinese Garden on Puget Ridge continues. 5:45 pm and later entry times; ticket cost varies. (6000 16th SW)

EVENING MUSIC AT C & P COFFEE: Circle of Songs, acoustic event hosted by David Guilbault, 6-8 pm at the coffeehouse (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), no cover, all ages.

LIVE AT EASY STREET RECORDS: 7 pm, Asterhouse album-release party, hosted by KEXP’s Troy Nelson. No cover, all ages. (4559 California SW)

FINAL WEEKEND FOR ‘COVENANT’: See the play at ArtsWest (4711 California SW) at 7:30 pm; get tickets online here.

LIVE AT THE SKYLARK: Tonight – Festival of Friends presents Bandmixers!

Bandmixers-Discography events feature curated cover​ bands showcasing select tracks from some of rock music’s most iconic albums​. Performing bands are made up of musicians from within the Festival of Friends Events musician community. Our Volume 15 installment includes the music of Queens of the Stone Age, The Cure, Pretenders and The Ramones. ​Join us for a great night of community live performances!

Doors 7, music 8, 21+, $10 cover. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

LIVE MUSIC AT SPRUCE HILL WINERY: 7:30 pm, singer-songwriter Angela Adams performs. 1 drink minimum, no cover. Our calendar listing explains how to reserve a table. (2960 4th Ave. S., SODO; WSB sph

REVELRY ROOM DJ: Spinning starts 9 pm at Revelry Room – check here to see who. (4547 California SW)

KARAOKE AT TALARICO’S: Saturday night singing! 10 pm at Talarico’s Pizzeria. (4718 California SW)

West Seattle event coming up? If community members are welcome, your event is welcome to be listed on our calendar! Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

Share This

Another Nisqually Earthquake anniversary. Two simple ways to get ready for future quake
February 28, 2025 9:22 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Earthquake | Preparedness | West Seattle news

24 years ago today, the 6.8-magnitude Nisqually Earthquake rocked West Seattle and the rest of the region. Another big quake could be years away – or minutes away. Before the anniversary ends, we want to remind you about two simple ways to prepare for possible future quakes:

#1 – Know the location of your nearest Emergency Communication Hub. If an earthquake or other disaster interrupts normal communication, this is where you’ll be able to go to connect with neighborhood volunteers who in turn are communicating with authorities. (And if there’s not one close to you, volunteer to start one!)

#2 – Get going on your own “flee bag” – and learn other preparedness tactics – at a free “Ready Freddy” party with West Seattle preparedness coach Alice Kuder. She has two more scheduled in March – you can register here.

Share This

Want a behind-the-scenes look into Transportation Levy spending? Apply to help oversee it
February 28, 2025 7:07 pm
|    Comments Off on Want a behind-the-scenes look into Transportation Levy spending? Apply to help oversee it
 |   Transportation | West Seattle news

Today was going to be the deadline for applying to be on the advisory committee overseeing the Transportation Levy approved by voters in November. The city is looking for more applicants and has extended the deadline to Monday morning. Here’s the announcement:

We are recruiting members for the new Seattle Transportation Levy Oversight Committee (LOC). Apply by 8 am on Monday, March 3, 2025!

Apply here.

Serving on the LOC is a unique opportunity to contribute to the future of Seattle’s transportation system and to ensure transparency and accountability as SDOT builds and delivers on levy commitments. As a committee member, you’ll help keep Seattle moving by overseeing how levy funds are spent. Your role is to monitor budgets, track progress on projects, and make sure the funds are used as promised to Seattle voters. You’ll work with the Mayor’s Office, City Council, and SDOT staff to ensure transparency and accountability. Join us in being a steward of this public investment and help make a real difference in Seattle’s transportation future.

Read more about it on this SDOT website. (Previous transportation levies have had committees like this too.)

Share This