4+ years post-fire, it’s 4 phases down, 3 to go for Highland Park Improvement Club rebuild

December 15, 2025 12:46 pm

| Comments Off on 4+ years post-fire, it’s 4 phases down, 3 to go for Highland Park Improvement Club rebuild

| Highland Park | West Seattle news

(Photo by Kay Kirkpatrick, May 2025 ‘First Friday’)

By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor

“This past summer, a thousand people came to an empty lot.”

Amy Durgin, president of the Highland Park Improvement Club board, still marvels at that – the number of people who showed up for First Fridays at the once-and-future HPIC building site on the northeast corner of 12th SW and SW Holden.

It’s an “empty lot” because of the fire that gutted the century-old HPIC building four and a half years ago.

(Photo by Dina Johnson, June 2021)

Less than a year after the fire, HPIC was hoping to rebuild quickly and reopen in 2023. Now we’re on the doorstep of 2026, and reopening is still in the distance. But next year’s city budget includes a much-needed boost for the project, so we asked for a little of Amy’s time to get an explanation of where exactly things stand, at what she declares is “a really exciting time for HPIC.”

First, a quick recap of what HPIC is and isn’t. It’s a nonprofit community organization that happens to own its own site for community-centered activities and events, It’s not government-owned, operated, or funded – except for occasional grants, most notably the $500,000 that District 1 City Councilmember Rob Saka managed to get added to next year’s city budget, which has been signed into law by outgoing Mayor Bruce Harrell.

What the HPIC building lost to fire – its remains subsequently demolished – was: An old building originally meant as a social hall. What it’s become over the years, and is intended to support with the rebuild: The community’s beating heart.

(Rendering of future HPIC HQ, by Wittman Estes)

What’s gotten in the way along these many months is the need for money. And it’s not just because the new building can’t be as bare-bones as the old one; it’s everything that’s happened along the way, even in the early stage, Amy explains: “We’ve found little anomalies as we dug into the ground .. we’re going to need a little more concrete .. the cost continues to grow.” But “we’re trying to be as thoughtful and strategic as possible.”

Not only does what they find at the scene continue to change, so does the landscape of the grant world. Right now, that’s what they’re focused on, large grants to cobble together the cost, rather than hoping thousands of small contributions will somehow get them over the finish line. Yes, grant-seeking is harder now because of all the federal changes; at all levels, Durgin says, “There’s much more competition for funding, especially for arts and culture groups”- even a fight to keep money, not just to get new funding. “We’ve never had to fight for funds like this before.” And that fight has ups and downs – recently, while the half-million-dollar city contribution was finalized (the largest they’ve ever got for the rebuilding project), they also got word they were turned down for another source of city funding, an Equitable Development Initiative grant.

All the while, the HPIC board is also working on programming for both before and after the new building’s opening, “anything that brings the community together.” Demonstrating how HPIC has done, can do, and will do that is a vital way to show potential funders why they’re worth investing in: “The board is thinking about what’s happening after the build, how are we going to be sustainable?”

On one hand, that’s not difficult – “people are thirsty for HPIC,” Durgin says, as evidenced not only in what they’ve done (the aforementioned First Friday events, most recently) but also in how they’re forging new relationships, with organizations such as African Community Housing and Development, which also got a slide of budgeted city funding for its planned International Public Market at the other end of Highland Park (8850 9th SW).

On the other hand, they need more people power. Volunteers, for example; they can strategize and make plans all they want, but the board can’t also take all the action to turn strategy and plans into reality. “We need more volunteers to do the work,” Amy stresses. They are hopeful that partnerships and affiliations will help with that too, helping HPIC “reach different segment of our community … there’s a big community out there.”

And there’s one simple action people can take: Become a member. Membership has grown exponentially but there’s infinite room (and you don’t even have to live and/or work in Highland Park). The more members HPIC has, for one, the more they’ll be taken seriously by potential funders. Members “are saying this is important to me – that shows grant funders how important this asset is to the community.” So important that HPIC exists even without its building; while First Fridays happened on the site, HPIC also gathers with the community at other spots – this year’s Not-So-Silent Night Parade on New Year’s Eve, for example, will again start at Highland Park Corner Store.

(WSB photo)

Back to the rebuilding project: They’ve completed four of its seven phases, including utilities and other ground work. Phase 5 includes framing the building and weatherizing it. Fundraising is about halfway to this phase’s $1;7 million cost. And optimism is running high: “We can do this. It’s very possible.”

HOLIDAY GUIDE: Send Christmas/New Year info! Plus, half-price trees

December 15, 2025 11:53 am

| 1 COMMENT

| Holidays | West Seattle news

Two West Seattle Holiday Guide notes:

SEND CHRISTMAS/NEW YEAR INFO: With Christmas Eve/Day barely a week and a half away, and New Year’s Eve/Day just a week later, we’re now collecting the last round of information for all those dates. We really appreciate everyone who’s sent information – holiday religious services, restaurant/coffee shop hours, etc. – and there’s still time to send info about your church, business, event, etc. – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

HALF-PRICE CHRISTMAS TREES: Most recent info we’ve received is an announcement that Holy Rosary School‘s tree lot is down to its last two days, and selling trees and wreaths at half price:

Holy Rosary School’s Tree Lot, located behind the school (42nd/Dakota), closes on Tuesday, December 16th. Hours for remaining days are 4-8 pm. Plenty of beautiful Douglas, Fraser, Noble and Nordmann trees available. ALL TREES & WREATHS ARE NOW 50% OFF!

Thank you West Seattle for all your support this season. We will be able to provide a meaningful cash donation to the West Seattle Food Bank and Salvation Army Hickman House as well as provide over 50 coats to Union Gospel Mission!

Updates on other tree sellers are welcome too – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

Comedy, concert, crosstown basketball, more for your West Seattle Monday

December 15, 2025 9:54 am

| Comments Off on Comedy, concert, crosstown basketball, more for your West Seattle Monday

| West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Squirrel standoff! Photo sent by Philip P)

While we watch the weather, with two wind alerts for our area, here’s what’s on the schedule in West Seattle today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and Holiday Guide (got something to add? please send info!):

LAST DAY FOR ADMIRAL CHURCH WARM CLOTHING DRIVE: One donation site remains popen for this:

The Admiral Church Annual Warm Clothing Drive has a dropoff point in front of the Admiral HUB (at 4320 SW Hill St) for community donations. There is a deep need for warm children’s clothing this year, so if you have neighbors with school age children who have outgrown their winter clothes from last year, encourage them to donate to this great cause. The children’s clothing will be distributed at WIN’s Saturday Feeding Program in White Center to those who need the clothing the most. Adult clothing will be sorted through and divided between the Westside Neighborhood Emergency Shelter and WIN’s Saturday Feeding Program. Larger sizes for both men and women are needed by WIN. Smaller sizes by Westside along with warm coats, hats, and gloves.

WINTER CLOTHING DRIVE: Bring donations of warm clothing to the bin at Dave Newman State Farm Insurance Agency (3435 California SW; WSB sponsor), 9 am-5 pm weekdays.

OTHER DONATION DRIVES … are listed in our Holiday Guide.

FAUNTLEROY FESTIVAL OF TREES: The Fauntleroy Church Festival of Trees is open for public drop-in viewing, 9 am-noon Mondays through Thursdays all month and into early January. You can vote for your favorite(s) by bringing nonperishable food donation(s) to stack beneath it/them! (9140 California SW)

BABY STORY TIME: At Southwest Library, 12 pm-12:30 pm.

HOMEWORK HELP: Free drop-in homework help at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), 4 pm to 5:45 pm.

SPORTS: Crosstown counterparts Chief Sealth IHS and West Seattle HS meet for basketball tonight at WSHS – 5:45 pm girls’ varsity, 7:30 pm boys’ varsity. (3000 California SW)

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRAS: Tonight brings the first of two WSCO fall/winter concerts, both free admission (“donations gratefully accepted”) – Debut Orchestra and Concert Orchestra at 6 pm tonight, Wind Symphony and Symphony Orchestra at 7 pm Wednesday. Both concerts are at Chief Sealth International High School (2600 SW Thistle).

SIGNMAKING: 6 pm to 8:30 pm at Admiral HUB (4320 SW Hill), help make signs for January’s “We’re Still Standing” demonstrations.

D&D: Long-running 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, ongoing weekly group for people experiencing grief – participate once, weekly, or occasionally. Fee; RSVP here. (4034 California SW)

MONDAY NIGHT TRIVIA X 4: Four venues for trivia tonight! 6:30 and 7:30 pm sessions of Music Quiz at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW) … 7 pm at The Good Society (California/Lander) … 7 and 8 pm Sporcle Pub Quiz at Three 9 Lounge (4505 39th SW), 21+ … 7:30 pm with QuizFix at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW).

ALKI MEDITATION: Doors open at 6:45 for 7 pm Monday night meditation at Alki UCC (6115 SW Hinds).

‘ROUTINE KILLERS’ COMEDY: 7 pm at Otter on the Rocks (4210 SW Admiral Way), featuring Sam Miller.

POOL TOURNAMENT: Pool players – enter The Corner Pocket‘s weekly tournament starting at 7 pm. $10 buy-in. (4302 SW Alaska)

FAUNTLEROY MEDITATION: Free weekly Zen sitting/meditation in the chapel at Fauntleroy UCC (9140 California SW), 7 pm-8:30 pm.

JAZZ AT THE ALLEY: Monday night music with The Westside Jazz Trio, 8 pm at The Alley (behind 4509 California SW), 21+, no cover.

MONDAY KARAOKE 9 pm Mondays, sing karaoke at Talarico’s Pizzeria (4718 California SW).

Thanks as always to everybody who sends info for our calendar and Holiday Guide; if you have something to add or cancel (or otherwise update), please send the info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

TRAFFIC CAMS, WEATHER, TRANSIT: Monday info, with two wind alerts

December 15, 2025 6:00 am

| 2 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts | West Seattle weather

6:13 AM: Texter warns of much water in eastbound WS Bridge outside lane to 99 ramp.

6:30 AM: Another texter reports police with a possible stalled car blocking the ramp to NB 99.

6:38 AM: SDOT says the ramp has reopened.

Earlier:

6:00 AM: Good morning! It’s Monday, December 15, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET, WITH TWO WIND ALERTS

The National Weather Service now has two wind alerts for our area:

*Wind Advisory still in effect until 10 pm tonight, with a chance of sustained 20-30 mph southwest wind, gusting to 55 mph

*High Wind Watch for 7 pm Tuesday through 10 am Wednesday, with possible sustained southwest wind 25 to 45 mph, gusting as high as 65 mph

*Meantime, in the forecast – rainy with a chance of pm thunderstorms, windy, high in the upper 50s.

Sunrise will be at 7:51 am; sunset at 4:18 pm.

TRANSIT TODAY

Washington State Ferries – WSF says the Triangle Route will continue on two boats for up to two more weeks. WSF’s alerts page has the details; Vessel Watch will show you which boat is where.

Metro buses – They’re on the regular weekday schedule and routes in our area.

West Seattle Water Taxi – regular West Seattle service, fall/winter schedule.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS (Note – SDOT’s system is having trouble as of 6 am)

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!

WEEK AHEAD: Sound Transit Board, with new member from West Seattle, meets early

December 14, 2025 10:22 pm

| 14 COMMENTS

| Sound Transit | West Seattle news

Another of our quick-look previews of the week ahead: The Sound Transit Board usually meets on fourth Thursdays, but this month, that’s Christmas Day, so it’s meeting on the third Thursday instead – December 18, 1:30 to 4 pm. The board members will include a new representative from West Seattle – King County Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda, a North Delridge resident, just appointed by new King County Executive Girmay Zahilay, who is also a board member. It will be the last meeting for outgoing Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell; his successor, Katie Wilson, will be on the board starting next month. Here’s the agenda for Thursday’s meeting. It includes a report on the proposed downtown tunnel, which some have suggested could be dropped as a way to cut costs. Also, board members are expected to give a performance rating of “outstanding” to first-year CEO Dow Constantine while deferring a potential raise and bonus “at (his) request,” according to this document. The meeting at Union Station downtown (401 S. Jackson) includes a public-comment period; find out here how to watch/comment in person or online

WEEK AHEAD: Christmas Ship stops + Alki Holiday Lights on Thursday

December 14, 2025 8:17 pm

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| Holidays | Neighborhoods | West Seattle news

(WSB file photo)

Previewing major events planned for the week ahead – Thursday (December 18) is the next big West Seattle night on the holiday calendar. The Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship makes both of its 2025 West Seattle stops (with Choir of the Sound performing) on that night, 5:50-6:10 pm off Salty’s (1936 Harbor SW), 8:35-8:55 pm in the vicinity of the Alki Bathhouse (2701 Alki SW). The second stop will be the heart of the Alki Community Council‘s Alki Holiday Lights celebration, coordinated by the Alki Community Council with beach businesses plus the Log House Museum. See the dozen-plus participating locations – and the treats/freebies they’re offering – by going here. And be at Alki Bathhouse for free Santa photos 7-8:15 pm!

P.S. As mentioned here last week, boaters are encouraged to join the Christmas Ship off Alki on Thursday night too!

WEST SEATTLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: The 4040 House is back!

December 14, 2025 7:02 pm

| 1 COMMENT

| West Seattle Christmas lights | West Seattle news

Going out looking at lights tonight while the weather’s relatively calm? Another West Seattle must-see is on! Thanks to Ryan and Kent, the “4040 House Crew,” for sending word that their popular display is up and running, and delighting visitors:

We’re glad to share that the Winter Holiday Light Display at 4040 House is back, doing our part to make the season a little more merry and bright.

The display is located at 4040 47th Ave SW and is open:

•Sunday–Thursday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

•Friday & Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Santa’s Jukebox will be up and running later this week, giving visitors the chance to select songs and interact with the show.

During your visit if you have questions, look for Kent or Ryan wearing the “4040 House Light Crew” jackets. We will be out most nights enjoying the show with our guests.

Please note that 47th Ave SW is a busy street and primary residential parking area. If you are driving, we kindly ask that you be respectful of our neighbors. Parking is typically easier along Dakota Street or Andover Street, with plenty of sidewalk space for a short walk over. Benches are also available for those who would like to sit and enjoy the display.

A huge thank you to our neighbors for their continued support, patience, and kindness throughout the season — these displays truly wouldn’t be possible without you.

We’d also like to give a special shout-out to the Menashes and to Derick at Seattle Light Show for helping make West Seattle THE Christmas light destination of the Pacific Northwest. We’re proud to be part of such a creative and generous community.

We hope you’ll come by and celebrate the season with us. For more information, visit 4040house.com.

Got lights? Seen lights? westseattleblog@gmail.com for tips and/or photos – and scroll here to see what we’ve shown so far!

PHOTOS: West Seattle HS girls’ second basketball win

December 14, 2025 3:31 pm

| 4 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | WS & Sports

PHOTOS BY OLIVER HAMLIN FOR WSB

(#4, Ayla Moore; #33, Dagny Hendershott)

West Seattle High School girls basketball has a young varsity team this year – half freshmen, only one senior – but they’ve won two games by large margins, including this one last night.

The Wildcats defeated Peninsula HS 55-30 at home. Photojournalist Oliver Hamlin was there for WSB. #10, junior Seneca Lucas, led scoring with 20 points:

Most of that came from five 3-pointers.

Next-highest point total was contributed by #4, sophomore Ayla Moore, with 19:

#15, freshman Ella Brown, added 8 points.

#24, freshman Jackie Sutcliffe, had 6:

The Wildcats’ head coach is Darnell Taylor.

(#3, senior Lucy Parker)

Next up for the team: Both they and the boys’ varsity squad host their crosstown counterparts from Chief Sealth IHS on Monday night.

(#23, freshman Edna Tito)

The girls play at 5:45 pm; the boys, at 7:30 pm.

WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Stolen white Lexus

December 14, 2025 1:02 pm

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| Crime | West Seattle news

Anna sent the photos with word her 2021 white Lexus IS 350 has been stolen, near 44th and Dakota, sometime since Friday. It has Florida plate MIFFFY and a bunny sticker in the rear window. Call 911 if you find it. (We’ll add the police-report number when we get it. UPDATE: 25-365577.)

Another crash near southwest end of West Seattle Bridge

December 14, 2025 12:43 pm

| 69 COMMENTS

| Safety | West Seattle news

We heard a bit of the radio exchanges about this around 10 this morning but not enough description to write about – until this photo came in just now, literally completing the picture. (Thanks to CJ for sending it.) Another crash in the area where some think the pavement is the problem, and others blame speed. The driver of this 4Runner wound up in the grass by the “Welcome to West Seattle” sign; no other vehicle was reported involved, and the initial SFD dispatch to check out the driver was quickly downsized.

WEEKEND SCENE: West Seattle Junction Hometown Holidays’ 2025 Coat Drive – with rewards

December 14, 2025 10:59 am

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| Holidays | How to help | Kiwanis Club of West Seattle | West Seattle news

Bring a new/lightly used coat and/or other warm clothing to the south end of the West Seattle Farmers’ Market today, and your reward will be a cup of cocoa, plus of course the knowledge you’ve done a good deed! It’s the annual West Seattle Junction Hometown Holidays “Cocoa and Coat Drive,” gathering up bundles and bins full of warm clothing for the West Seattle Food Bank‘s clothing bank Clothesline. Volunteers from the Kiwanis Club of West Seattle are here to help. (above are Whit, Robbin, Sawyer, Denis from WSFB and the Kiwanis – look for the Food Bank van!) The market is on until 2 pm.

West Seattle Junction Cocoa and Coat Drive, Hanukkah’s first night, more on the list for your Sunday

December 14, 2025 6:30 am

| 6 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Photo by Jon Anderson – holiday mode for Highland Park’s Steller’s Jay)

Today again brings a two-part event list – first part, the holiday-related highlights, from both our West Seattle Event Calendar and Holiday Guide:

SELFIES WITH SANTA: 8:30 am-11 am Saturday and Sunday mornings in December, DIY photos with Santa at CAPERS Home (4525 California SW; WSB sponsor), donation requested for West Seattle Food Bank.

SANTA BRUNCH AT HARRY’S BEACH HOUSE: 9 am-1 pm, reservations required, link and info here. (2676 Alki SW)

HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS COCOA & COAT DRIVE: At the south end of the Farmers’ Market with the Kiwanis Club of West Seattle, 10 am-2 pm – bring new or gently used coats, hats, gloves, scarves, and – “Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa courtesy of Husky Deli.” Donations go to the West Seattle Food Bank clothing bank Clothesline.

206 MAKERS’ MARKET AT JET CITY LABS: Find multiple creators/vendors at Jet City Labs (4547 California SW), vendors with ceramics, textiles, baked goods, more. 10 am-2 pm.

VIVA STUDIO TOUR ON VASHON: 10 am-5 pm again today, final day for a self-guided tour of Vashon Islaand artists’ studios, just a ferry ride away. Info and locations at vivartists.com. (WSB sponsor)

WESTWOOD ART STUDIO HOLIDAY ART SHOW & SALE: Final day for this group show and sale, 12 pm-5 pm today, more info here. (9042 31st SW)

CHRISTMAS TREES: Final weekend day for Holy Rosary Tree Lot (42nd/Dakota, 9 am-8 pm today). List of all vendors is in our Holiday Guide.

(Saturday sunset photographed by Chris Frankovich – sunsets start getting later tonight – 4:18 pm – and beyond!)

HANUKKAH: Begins at sundown tonight (4:18 pm). Two public events next weekend – see the list in our Holiday Guide.

ASTRA LUMINA: Celestially inspired light show on the grounds of the Seattle Chinese Garden at the north end of the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus, 4:45 pm and onward tonight. Tickets and info here.

NORTHWEST BOYCHOIR: Northwest Boychoir‘s second performance of “Festival of Lessons and Carols” at Holy Rosary Church, 7 pm. Tickets here. (42nd SW and SW Genesee)

Now today’s other highlights, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you’ll find more listings!) and inbox:

AMERICAN MAH JONGG: Weekly games are back at the new location of The Missing Piece (4707 California SW), 9:30 am.

SUNDAY MORNING MEDITATION: Small-group class at 9:30 am at Mama Be Well (4034-A California SW); preregistration info is in our calendar listing.

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: Open as usual in its regular spot on California between Oregon and Alaska, 10 am-2 pm, now in almost-winter produce season – roots, greens, peppers, mushrooms, beans, garlic, apples, more – plus lots of baked goods, cheeses, meats, fish, prepared foods, condiments, pasta, more. (Note that our state’s flooding may have affected some of the growers you usually see.)

(added) BENEFIT BAKE SALE: We happened onto Amelia and Thomas on the southeast corner of California/Alaska, outside the Farmers’ Market, having a bake sale to benefit the West Seattle High School Class of 2029. They said they’ll be there until 2 pm.

FREE NIA CLASS: Now starting at 10:15 am, first class free if you pre-register. At Inner Alchemy Studio/Sanctuary. (3618 SW Alaska)

WESTIES RUN CLUB: Sunday run – 10:30 am this week, combined with a holiday party, leaving from Ounces. (3809 Delridge Way SW)

WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Need a tool but don’t need to, or can’t, buy it? You’ll probably be able to borrow it from the Tool Library, open 11 am-4 pm on the northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

‘SUNDAY SOLIDARITY ACTION’: West Seattle Resist‘s Sunday 11:30 am-1:30 pm sign-holding event, also including a drop-off food drive through the end of the year. South of Farmers’ Market. (California SW and SW Alaska)

BLOCK PRINTING WORKSHOP: 1 pm at Nurture Wellbeing (6307 California SW).

WELCOME ROAD WINERY: Enjoy your Sunday afternoon at this West Seattle tasting room (with a patio!) open 2-5 pm, kids and dogs welcome. (3804 California SW; WSB sponsor)

‘PENELOPE’ MATINEE AT ARTSWEST: West Seattle’s playhouse is presenting the folk-pop musical “Penelope,” with a 3 pm matinée today; get tickets here. (4711 California SW)

WEST SEATTLE INDIVISIBLE: Monthly meeting features guest speaker Shasti Conrad, vice chair of the Democratic National Committee, 3:30 pm at Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon).

LIVE AT EASY STREET: Packaging performs in-store at Easy Street Records at 5 pm, all ages, no cover. (4559 California SW)

UNDERGROUND TRIVIA AT CORNER POCKET: 7:30 pm, free to play. (4302 SW Alaska)

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

Are you planning, organizing, and/or publicizing something that we could add to the WSB community event calendar – one-time or recurring? Or maybe you have a listing for our West Seattle Holiday Guide? Please email us the basic details – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

WEST SEATTLE WEATHER: Wind Advisory alert for tonight through Monday night

December 14, 2025 6:25 am

| 3 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle weather

Another Wind Advisory alert from the National Weather Service – this time, for 10 pm tonight (Sunday, December 14) through 10 pm Monday. The NWS alert advises expecting south winds 20 to 25 mph with gusts 45 to 50 mph. And it adds, “Given the very saturated ground, expect that impacts may be more widespread than normally associated with these particular wind speeds.” Charge everything!

SIDE NOTE: Tonight marks the 19th anniversary of the 2006 Hanukkah Eve Windstorm – which threw thousands of West Seattleites out of power for days, us included.

WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Car-window shooting

December 13, 2025 11:51 pm

| 9 COMMENTS

| Crime | West Seattle news

Stacie reports someone shattered her car’s window by firing a BB gun at it, and she says others along her street were hit too:

Our car’s driver-side window was shot at by BB gun sometime overnight 12-12 or early morning 12-13. Wanted to warn the community. We are on 16th Ave SW just south of the college. There were other vehicles hit on 16th Sze that we noticed earlier tonight.

We’ll add the SPD report # when we get it.

WEST SEATTLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: As seen from two wheels

December 13, 2025 11:31 pm

| 2 COMMENTS

| West Seattle Christmas lights | West Seattle news

Tonight’s spotlight lights are courtesy of Al, who sent this photo from a stop during The Beer Junction‘s wassail ride tonight – he says it’s in North Admiral, SW Atlantic between California SW and 44th SW. As for the ride, Al reports 17 people pedaled about six miles:

Wherever and however you find lights worth sharing, westseattleblog@gmail.com – with or without a pic! (To see what we’ve shown already, scroll through this WSB archive!)

WEST SEATTLE WEEKEND SCENE: Santa Pub Crawl, second decade!

December 13, 2025 10:40 pm

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| Holidays | West Seattle news

(WSB photos)

Santa Claus was coming to town. And so was Santa. Santa, too. And Kris Kringle. And did we mention Santa? If you were in The Junction late this afternoon and/or early this evening, you might have noticed an abundance of Santas. It was the 11th year for the West Seattle Santa Pub Crawl, which started at Shadowland (above) at 4 pm and ended at Poggie Tavern (below) at 8:

The pub crawl also takes advantage of Santa’s giving spirit with fundraising raffles benefiting a local nonprofit – today that was Furry faces Foundation.

SCHOOLS: Denny IMS hosts community conversation about Families, Education, Preschool, Promise Levy just passed by voters

December 13, 2025 7:42 pm

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| West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

Story and photos by Jason Grotelueschen
Reporting for West Seattle Blog

Local school families, parents, students and education advocates gathered on Thursday night at Denny International Middle School (2601 SW Kenyon) to learn and share ideas about positive impacts made possible by the Families, Education, Preschool and Promise (FEPP) levy, which Seattle voters approved for renewal/expansion in the November election.

The 6-year $1.3 billion levy was overwhelmingly approved by 80% of voters (the highest margin in the 35-year history of Seattle education levies) and is now in “implementation planning” mode through next summer (the Seattle City Council will vote on the plan in June 2026), followed by “year one” implementation beginning in fall 2026 and running through 2032. For more details, see this PDF fact sheet about the levy renewal and the “Every Child Ready” initiative (announced in April).

Organizers on Thursday night expressed gratitude to voters and described the levy as “the biggest education levy in the history of the city and the state,” noting that Seattle is the only city in Washington that provides this type of supplemental funding for the local public school system.

Back in June, we reported about mayor Bruce Harrell (who is in office until the end of this year, before incoming mayor Katie Wilson takes office) signing the bill to send the FEPP levy (aka Proposition 1) to the November ballot. As we reported when Harrell proposed the levy in April, it’s projected to cost the median-assessed-value Seattle homeowner $654 each year. The expiring 2018 version of the levy was described as costing the median-value homeowner $249 each year. Later in June, the City Council considered the FEPP levy proposal and voted to approve the ballot measure, which was then approved by voters in November.

The event on Thursday, held in the “galleria” area that Denny shares with Chief Sealth International High School, was the third of four public meetings about FEPP that were organized by the Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL), whose director Dr. Dwane Chappelle welcomed attendees:

Two members of the Seattle City Council were in attendance at Denny on Thursday night and were also invited to give opening remarks. First up was District 1’s own Rob Saka:

As well as Maritza Rivera from District 4 (northeast Seattle) who serves as chair of the council’s Libraries, Education & Neighborhoods Committee and worked closely with Harrell as part of the select committee for the FEPP levy:

The evening’s emcee was longtime local educator and advocate Manuela Slye, who is also a member of the levy oversight committee:

Also in attendance was Seattle School Board member Vivian Song, who formerly served on the levy oversight committee and said she welcomed the opportunity to listen and learn from the community:

After the opening remarks and overviews of the levy, attendees divided into discussion groups to dive deeper into the three key areas that the levy funding is intended to support in 2026-2032. Per the DEEL website and information sheets, these three areas (and their respective “share” of the levy funding) are:

Ready to Start: ($658M) High-quality preschool for three- and four-year olds, with free tuition for low- and middle- income families, child care co-pay support, supports for families with children prenatal to age three, and direct payments to childcare workers.
Ready to Learn: ($510M) Free expanded learning supports for Seattle youth including school-day, afterschool, and summer academic, enrichment, and mentorship programs; funding for five new School Based Health Centers bringing the total citywide to 34; and expanded school safety and student mental health services.
Ready to Launch: ($84M) Tuition-free college at Seattle Colleges accessible for all Seattle public high school graduates through the Seattle Promise program, supported transfer pathway to University of Washington-Seattle, and scholarships to grow a diverse workforce in high-demand careers such as education, trades, and the public sector.

Attendees interested in these topics on Thursday gathered for about 45 minutes of discussion, then shared notes back with the larger group, which we’ll summarize below.

The Ready to Start group talked about issues and opportunities for our youngest scholars:

The group shared family and provider experiences with childcare programs and after-school programs including CCAP (Child Care Assistance Program) and preschool. Some families said they felt they had access to the financial support they need for childcare, but improvements are needed to expand subsidies for middle income families who may not qualify yet and are cost burdened; need to “broaden access overall. Also discussed was the idea of earlier workforce opportunities for high school students to support the child-care workforce by assisting experienced adults, and overall to help providers get certified to offer childcare and preschool services.

Family priorities when choosing child care and thinking about key logistics included:

Core priorities across ages: Quality, trust in providers, cultural and linguistic match (especially for infant and toddler care), reliability, and safety.
School-age priorities: After-school programs that actively engage students in learning.
Logistics and flexibility: Need for flexible hours (including before-school and after-school care, sometimes as early as 5 AM), and provision of food and transportation where needed.

The largest discussion group on Thursday night was Ready to Learn, focusing on K-12 experiences and needs:

Participants talked about the need to support students and families both academically and with a “whole-child” approach, to ensure that needs are met, including:

Academic and enrichment support: After school and outside-of-school enrichment that boosts academics, offers hands-on learning, culturally relevant programming outside the school-day curriculum, and opportunities for youth to learn new skills and try new things.
Whole-child mental health: Holistic mental health that is integrated into daily school experiences and other activities, not solely reliant on youth seeking standalone services. Doing this right requires a range of caring adults who build relationships to reach and re-engage youth.
Meeting community needs and family engagement: Services reflecting whole-community needs, including workforce support and multi-generational involvement (including grandparents and older extended family. Making this work requires explicit, clear invitations for parents and family members to be involved, treating parents as true partners in youth well-being and education.
Community partnerships: Sustained, consistent partnerships bridging in-school and out-of-school supports to provide a stable set of adults ready to respond to academic, social learning, and other needs. This also requires schools and partners that are connected to each other, and to youth and their families.

One of the participants in this group was Denny Middle School principal Mary Ingraham, who talked about the importance of “needs assessments” to identify ways that student and family support can have the most impact.

The final group was Ready to Launch, focusing on preparation and paths to careers and college opportunities after high school:

The group included several high school students who shared their stories and experiences, as well as Councilmember Saka and Chief Sealth principal Hope Perry.

Insights and discussion points from the group included:

Financial assistance navigation and access: Desire for clearer support through applications and access to higher funding amounts, and to involve more people to make processes easier for youth.
Program experiences that shape careers: Group members shared personal experiences and observations with program services (such as school-based health centers) influencing interests in a positive way, including driving artistic careers and sparking interest in fields like psychology (through working with a therapist).
Exposure to careers and education pathways: Need for more exposure in schools to diverse careers and colleges to help youth identify their interests.
Information access challenges: Limited, hard-to-find online information for scholarships, funding for business needs, and internships. One participant noted it is hard to identify the best opportunities online because “the internet is so big,” and others strongly agreed.
Career exploration: More job shadow opportunities and real-world exposure to see what jobs look like “in the real world.”

As the evening at Denny wrapped up, organizers encouraged attendees to stay involved and stay in touch. DEEL also hosted meetings last week in Magnuson Park and Ballard, and are in Columbia City next week on December 16 (details here) to wrap up the 4-meeting series.

Also, if you’re interesting in diving deeper and getting involved with the levy oversight process, the team is now accepting applications for the levy oversight committee which will help with the implementation evaluation plan and review and advise on legislation and related work for the next levee. Applications can be submitted here.