VIDEO: Seattle Chamber Music Society’s Concert Truck visits Alki, with Puget Ridge concert this evening

| West Seattle beaches | West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

Outdoor-music season is on! Good turnout for the first of two West Seattle performances today by the trio traveling with the Seattle Chamber Music Society‘s Concert Truck. The crowd filled much of the green east of Alki Beach Bathhouse under the noontime sunshine.

Here’s the full program played this afternoon and scheduled to be repeated tonight. We recorded a longer clip (apologies that one musician is out of view in it) from a work by Fanny Mendelssohn:

This evening’s concert is at 5 pm at the Seattle Chinese Garden on the north end of the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) on Puget Ridge, 6000 16th SW, also free of charge, lasting about an hour (bring your own chair/blanket).

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Gunfire investigation on SW Thistle (updated Monday)

June 29, 2025 1:37 pm

| 5 COMMENTS

| Crime | West Seattle news

1:37 PM SUNDAY: Police are in the 2100 block of SW Thistle right now investigating a gunfire report. Though they haven’t found casings so far, one witness reported seeing someone firing a gun from a “dark gray sedan,” aiming toward a group of people standing in the area, then heading westbound on Thistle. (That’s one of the criteria for confirming a “possible gunfire” report – someone saying they saw a gun being fired. In this case, officers told dispatch, the witness “described a revolver.”) No report of injuries or property damage. If you have any information, the incident number is 25-180820.

9:22 AM MONDAY: Summary from SPD:

At 1321 hours, officers responded to reports of shots fired in the area of Delridge Way SW / SW Thistle. A homeowner in the area flagged down officers for assistance. During the investigation, it was determined an armed subject had arrived at the victim’s home the previous night looking for a specific person who does not reside at this address. The subject was armed with a revolver and left after checking the home interior (not reported). Today, several renters of the home were inside when they heard shots coming from the street. Officers located bullet hole damage to the home and a vehicle in the driveway.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Stolen Suburban (update: found)

June 29, 2025 1:15 pm

| 0 COMMENTS

| Crime | West Seattle news

Reported via text:

This morning, around 7 AM, my boyfriend’s mother had her beloved truck stolen. The incident took place off 12th Avenue and Holden Street in Highland Park. According to a neighbor, they observed a tan Impala parked next to the truck just before it was taken, and it appeared as though someone was attempting to break in. Once we all woke up and checked outside, the truck was already gone. This truck holds special significance for her, as she purchased it with her inheritance back in 2003, and it has been a cherished part of her life ever since. While it may not seem like the flashiest vehicle, it means the world to her, and we genuinely want it back.

1999 GMC Suburban
AOE7011 – WA
Police report 25-180678

If you find it, call 911 and refer to that report #.

UPDATE: Found, at Roxbury Safeway.

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LAST CALL: Seattle Public Schools survey for superintendent search

June 29, 2025 10:35 am

| 1 COMMENT

| West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

When we reported recently on the Seattle Public Schools board designating Fred Podesta as acting superintendent through the summer, we noted that the district has a survey open, asking questions to assist with the process of hiring the next permanent superintendent. Tomorrow is the last day to participate in the survey, and School Board President Gina Topp (who is the elected board director for West Seattle and most of South Park) asked us to mention it again: “It’s an important opportunity for families and community members to weigh in.” Find the survey here.

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WEST SEATTLE SUNDAY: 25 notes!

June 29, 2025 5:16 am

| 15 COMMENTS

| WS miscellaneous

(Must be dragonfly season! Steve Bender’s photo is one of several we’ve received – thank you!)

Music, cycling, shopping, reading … plenty of in highlights for today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

SEATTLE RADIO FIELD DAY: Wrapping up this morning but you’re still welcome to visit before 11 am, north lot/field of South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) to learn about this annual gathering of ham-radio operators.

WESTIES RUN CLUB: Today’s Sunday Funday run leaves from and returns to Dough Joy Donuts (4310 SW Oregon), 9 am.

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

FREE ADAPTIVE CYCLING TRYOUTS: Mobility-challenged? Outdoors for All is bringing adaptive-cycling options to West Seattle for free tryouts today, 10 am-2 pm at Don Armeni Boat Ramp, all ages. (1222 Harbor SW).

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm, with summer produce (berries! lots of salad greens! asparagus!) plus 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)

MASTER GARDENERS: While at the market, look for Master Gardeners, ready to answer your questions! Sundays throughout the summer, they’re at the market, 10 am-2 pm.

CAPERS SALE: The all-month-long sale (and 40th anniversary celebration) is in its final two days. Capers (WSB sponsor) is open 10 am-4 pm today. (4525 California SW)

FREE NIA CLASS: 10:30 am, first class free if you pre-register. At Inner Alchemy Sanctuary/Studio (3618 SW Alaska)

THE BEER JUNCTION TURNS 15: Wrapping up the anniversary weekend! Open 11 am-11 pm today, stop in to wish them happy 15th. (4511 California SW)

SPRAYPARK SEASON CONTINUES: Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale) is open every day, no matter what the weather, 11 am-8 pm.

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)

WEST SEATTLE RESISTS: Sunday signholding in The Junction (California/Alaska), 11:30 am-1:30 pm.

CONCERT TRUCK! 2 SHOWS, 2 SITES: The Seattle Chamber Music Society‘s Concert Truck brings free live classical music to two West Seattle sites today – noon at Alki Beach Bathhouse (2701 Alki SW), 5 pm at Seattle Chinese Garden (6000 16th SW, north side of South Seattle College campus). The program and musicians are listed here.

COLMAN POOL: The heated salt-water outdoor pool at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW) is open today as its 7-day-a-week season continues after a three-day swim-meet closure, noon-7 pm, with four hour-and-a-half swim sessions, each half lap swimming and half open swim – see the schedule here.

WADING POOLS: Also at Lincoln Park, the wading pool will be open, as will the EC Hughes wading pool (2805 SW Holden) – hours for both today are noon-7 pm.

GET READY! Quick fun way to jump into preparedness – be ready just in case. Alice Kuder‘s last “Ready Freddy” prep-party event until fall, 12:45 pm at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW).

ALKI POINT LIGHTHOUSE TOURS: Weekly free tours! Grounds at 3201 Alki SW open at 1 pm; last tour starts 3:45 pm; more info in our calendar listing.

SOCCER: Westside Pride Match for West Seattle Junction FC vs. Portland Bangers, 2 pm at Nino Cantu SW Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle) – get tickets here.

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)

TEZCON MUSIC SHOWCASE: Day 2 of TezCon features a music showcase in a West Seattle back yard, 2-6 pm – info in our calendar listing.

CLASSIC NOVELS (AND MOVIES) BOOK CLUB: 3 pm at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor) – Ralph Ellison‘s “Invisible Man” is this month’s title.

‘THE EFFECT’ AT ARTSWEST: Today brings an afternoon performance for the curret play at ArtsWest (4711 California SW), 3 pm – check here for tickets.

FREE COMMUNITY MEAL: 5:30 pm at Bethany West Seattle (8600 9th SW), all welcome.

IMPROV MUSICAL: Jet City at ArtsWest tonight! 7:30 pm; check here for tickets.

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

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

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VIDEO: Seafair Pirates arrive at Alki, mingle with fans and royalty, grab keys to city – report #2

June 28, 2025 9:09 pm

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| West Seattle beaches | West Seattle news

With many cannon blasts, the Seafair Pirates approached Alki close to their announced landing time of 1:30 pm.

(Photo by Dave Gershgorn for WSB)

As in years past, they were on board the Global Diving landing craft Prudhoe Bay; the colorful cannon smoke, however, was new, and meant the Pirates came ashore in something of a fog:

(Photo by David Hutchinson)

(This photo and next three by Oliver Hamlin for WSB)

It cleared quickly enough for brave beachgoers to try to thwart them:

Most of the crowd welcomed the invaders:

Eventually the Pirates – led by Davy Jones (in green) and Captain Kidd (in red and gold) -made their way to their wheeled “vessel” Moby Duck up on Alki Avenue, where Seafair royalty – Queen Alcyone (former SPD Chief Carmen Best), King Neptune (former TV anchor Eric Johnson), and Community Hero Mercy Hobbes (the Hero program replaces Miss Seafair) awaited for a bit of goofy ceremony:

Pirate leaders were anointed Seafair royalty.

(This photo and next 2 by Oliver Hamlin for WSB)

Every year they also manage to wrestle the key to the city – or county – away from a politician. This year the designated key-yielder was deputy mayor Greg Wong, who first tried valiantly to speak the Pirates’ language.

Eventually the Pirates sailed on – leaving behind aspiring shipmates like this 7-year-old who’s come to see them every year of his life:

But they’ll return to West Seattle three weeks from today for the WS Grand Parade! You might even see them passing through like this (thanks to Val for the video from Admiral Way):

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Hit-run driver destroys signal box, and mural, at 35th/Roxbury

June 28, 2025 7:27 pm

| 9 COMMENTS

| Transportation | West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

Six and a half years after West Seattle muralist Desmond Hansen painted karate master Chojun Miyagi on the signal box at the northwest corner of 35th/Roxbury, a driver has taken it out. The hit-run happened overnight and we have few details except that the driver took out the signal box, and that left the intersection signal in flashing mode for many hours. Our photo is from late morning; we went by again a little while ago and a replacement signal box was in place. Archived radio from overnight suggests the hit-run car might have been found nearby but we won’t be able to follow up until Monday.

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WEEKEND SCENE: Seattle Radio Field Day 2025, in and around a West Seattle field

June 28, 2025 3:56 pm

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| Puget Ridge | West Seattle news

3:56 PM: Thanks to Cindi Barker for the photos! Above are some of the ham-radio operators set up on the north end of South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) for Seattle Radio Field Day, a 24-hour marathon of broadcasting, networking, and educating, among other things. You’re welcome to stop by any time during Field Day and find out how it all works. Various workshops/demonstrations are happening in and near the breezeway shown in the photo, as listed here..

That’s Luke Denuelle “presenting first aid in disasters,” Cindi explaiins. To find Field Day, ust turn into the north SSC parking lot and you’ll see the small village of trailers and towers set up until things start wrapping up late Sunday morning.

6:42 PM: We just visited for a look at what’s happening as the evening begins.

(Photos from here by WSB’s Tracy Record)

If you visit, go beyond where participants are camping, to the field on the west side of the north lot:

There you’ll find tents where operators are exploring and engaging, like this trio:

They were working with digital KT8 radio. And it’s not all about two-way at Field Day. Back in the breezeway, we found a radio collector showing off this 1939 RCA of Canada AM receiver:

It’s battery-powered because it’s from a time when rural farmers didn’t have electricity in their homes. For antique fans, here’s a peek at its tubes:

Lots of good conversation to be had, too; we talked with Jim and Barbara Edwards, who also are longtime West Seattle Grand Parade volunteers (parade communication is heavily reliant on amateur radio) and learned about some of what they’re working on to keep it running well behind the scenes this year. Again, Field Day is on until about 11 tomorrow morning, and if you visit, ask about the GOTA – Get On The Air – tent, where you can find out what it’s like firsthand.

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REPORT #1: Seafair Pirates on Alki

June 28, 2025 1:22 pm

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| Seen around town | Seen at sea | West Seattle news

1:22 PM: Just a note in case you’re hearing the cannon fire: The Seafair Pirates, aboard the landing craft Prudhoe Bay again this year, are on their way to storm Alki Beach. Updates to come.

1:38 PM: The Pirates have arrived. Lots of cannon fire preceded. We’re told they’ll seize the key to the city from a deputy mayor.

2:06 PM: Still awaiting that.

2:49 PM: All the antics and ceremony aboard Moby Duck – with Queen Alcyone (former SPD Chief Carmen Best), King Neptune (former TV news anchor Eric Johnson), and Deputy Mayor Greg Wong – has concluded. Separate report later with pics and video! (Update: See all that here.)

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WEEKEND SCENE: Taste of White Center is about more than food

June 28, 2025 12:36 pm

| 8 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | White Center

Even if you’re not hungry – yet – you should be at the Taste of White Center! It’s a street party that, yes, is primarily to raise money for the White Center Food Bank, but there’s a lot of entertainment and information to be had too!

Mariachi musicians played outside Pho Tai, next to the new Whateke Sports Bar …

Dancers are in the Tim’s Tavern lot … and there’s a kid zone just north of 100th:

Families were also drawn to the visiting North Highline Fire Station crews parked on SW 98th:

But back to the food. Maps show all 35 participating venues – including WSB sponsors Alpine Diner and Big Mario’s Pizza:

Big Mario’s is serving up big slices of cheese pizza for your $5 ticket (buy tickets at the WCFB booth at 16th SW/SW 98th – each one gets you one of the designated dishes or drinks at participating businesses):

Desserts are available too – Puffy Pandy has ice-cream puffys:

Participants are on White Center’s side streets too – even north of Roxbury in South Delridge, Young’s Restaurant, Max’s Triangle Pub, Can Bar, Nacho Mama, and Meat the Live Butcher. You can get a map/list, but not tickets, at the WCFB table on 16th right off Roxbury if you want to decide. All the ticket revenue goes to the WCFB; the participants are being compensated with sponsor funding. This continues until 3 pm!

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VIDEO: Junction Ace Hardware celebrates what’s new – and what’s not

June 28, 2025 11:18 am

| 0 COMMENTS

| West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

(Ribboncutting, emceed by West Seattle Chamber of Commerce executive director Rachel Porter)
The ceremonial ribboncutting outside Junction Ace Hardware about an hour ago was a celebration of what’s new – the Ace affiliation, and some new merchandise – and what’s not – the continuing legacy of almost three-quarters of a century of family ownership. Bruce Davis – with whom we talked about all this in February – spoke briefly:

Until 2 pm, you are invited to go join the party. Much of it is outdoors, in front of the store, like the grilling station where you can get a free hot dog and see some of the store’s expanded Weber product line:

If you’re in the market for new yard equipment, check out the booth featuring battery-powered EGO equipment, a brand-new brand for the store – EGO’s Jed says the weed-whacker is their best seller and is particularly appealing because it’s easy to thread:

Outside the store you can also donate to the West Seattle Food Bank and/or buy one of their Summer Raffle tickets:

Junction Hardware is also supporting the West Seattle and Fauntleroy YMCA (WSB sponsor) by offering rounding-up opportunities to shoppers – Stephanie from the Y is helping at the kids’-activities tent outside, where young visitors can plant seeds:

If you haven’t been inside the store for a while, check out new additions there too:

The party’s on until 2 pm, but store hours today continue until 6 pm.

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38 notes for your West Seattle Saturday!

June 28, 2025 6:07 am

| 4 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(One more low-tide fan with wings – photographed by Curry Gibson)

On summer’s second weekend, here’s what we have for today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

SATURDAY GROUP RUN: Meet at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) at 8 am for the free weekly group run.

HEAVILY MEDITATED: Free 9 am meditation at Inner Alchemy Sanctuary/Studio (3618 SW Alaska) – register here.

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

WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: That’s followed immediately by this walk in which you can participate regardless of whether you were on the introductory stroll. Meet at 47th/Fauntleroy.

JUNCTION ACE HARDWARE ‘GRAND REOPENING’: The locally owned hardware store in The Junction is throwing a party today to celebrate its affiliation change, starting with a 10 am ribboncutting and continuing with other festivities until 2 pm. Details in our calendar listing – including a donation drive for the West Seattle Food Bank. (44th SW/SW Edmunds)

DELRIDGE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm, Saturdays through October, at Hope Academy in South Delridge (9421 18th SW). Fresh produce, cooked-on-site food, body-care products, more.

MASTER GARDENERS: They’re ready to answer your questions! Saturdays this summer, they’re at The Home Depot (7345 Delridge Way SW), 10 am-2 pm.

FREE PLAY DATE: 10-11:30 am at Little Trailblazers (3003 SW Roxbury) – sign up here.

FASHION AT FAUNTLEROY SCHOOLHOUSE: 5+ cabi stylists are joining for a sample sale 10:30 am-1:30 pm at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse – “A curated collection from multiple sellers — more styles, more sizes, more deals!” (9131 California SW)

MORNING MUSIC AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: 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.

FREE WRITING GROUP: 10:30 am – free weekly in-person group for writers of all levels. For location info, go here.

TASTE OF WHITE CENTER: 11 am-3 pm, bring your money and your appetite to support the White Center Food Bank, which will be at 16th SW/SW 98th to sell $5 tickets for small plates, drinks, desserts, etc., offered up by more than 30 participating restaurants/bars! (Note that 16th SW is closed to vehicle traffic between Roxbury and SW 100th.)

SEATTLE RADIO FIELD DAY: 11 am today to 11 am Sunday, local ham-radio operators are set up on the north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) for networking, knowledge-sharing, talking to other radio operators around the world, and more, and you’re invited to stop by any time – it’s all also intended as one big open house.

SPRAYPARK SEASON CONTINUES: Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale) continues daily operations today, 11 am-8 pm.

FAMILY READING TIME: At Paper Boat Booksellers, 11 am family reading time. (4522 California SW)

LOW-LOW TIDE WITH BEACH NATURALISTS: Seattle Aquarium beach naturalists will be out at Constellation and Lincoln Parks 11:30 am-2:30 pm today, with the low tide out to -2.3 feet at 1:37 pm.

‘RECLAIM THE FLAG’: West Seattle Indivisible is organizing streetcorner rallies along California SW between Admiral Junction and Morgan Junction, noon-2:30 pm.

WADING POOLS: City-run wading pools expected to be open in West Seattle today are Lincoln Park (12 pm-7 pm) and Hiawatha (12 pm-5:30 pm).

COLMAN POOL SWIM MEET: No public swim sessions today for the heated salt-water outdoor pool at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW) – but they’ll resume tomorrow.

LOG HOUSE MUSEUM OPEN: Explore the present and past at the home of West Seattle history, open for your visit, noon-4 pm – see the new exhibit about Seattle Teriyaki! (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).

NORTHWEST WINE ACADEMY TASTING ROOM, WINE BAR, STORE: On the north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus:

The Northwest Wine Academy Tasting Room, Wine Bar, and Retail Store are open Thursday-Saturday from 1-6 pm. Come taste and purchase our student-produced wine! The Northwest Wine Academy features a large tasting room and retail store. While tasting one of our current releases, you can request a tour of our barrel room and bottling area. Come support our student winemakers and join us for a student tasting.

SEAFAIR PIRATES LANDING ON ALKI: Around 1:30 pm, the “Pirate Kings of the Northwest” are expected to storm ashore at Alki Beach near the Bathhouse- time approximate, could be sooner, could be later, listen for the cannon fire as they approach! They’ll mingle with onlookers as they make their way toward an eventual shoreside escape, usually aboard their landlubbing “vessel” Moby Duck.

FOR GARDENERS! 1:30-3 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), “Garden Hotline Presents: Basics of Seed Saving From Your Garden.” Details here. Free.

WEST SEATTLE RHODIES FC: Westside Pride Match vs. Bigfoot FC, last home match of the Rhodies’ first season, (updated) 2 pm at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle) – go here for tickets.

(ArtsWest photo by John McLellan, from ‘The Effect’)

2 PERFORMANCES OF ‘THE EFFECT’ AT ARTSWEST: Second weekend for the new play directed by Mathew Wright, 3 pm and 7:30 pm performances today/tonight. (4711 California SW)

FREE MASSAGE: Walk into Nepenthe (9447 35th SW) 3-5 pm for short, specific free massage.

ALSO AT NEPENTHE – SUMMER MINI-MARKET: 3 pm to “whenever,” vendors and more!

P-PATCH PIZZA PARTY: The Barton P-Patch has a pizza oven and will use it during a 4-6 pm fun(draiser) today – come see the garden, too. (34th SW/SW Barton)

TEZCON: Day 1, 4-10 pm at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW), tickets and details here.

THE BEER JUNCTION’S 15TH ANNIVERSARY: 5 pm smash-burger pop-up today, plus special anniversary beer. (4511 California SW)

EVENING MUSIC AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: Roo Forrest and Friends, 6-8 pm at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor). No cover, all ages.

DUB SEA FISH STICKS: 6:05 pm home game vs. the Redmond Dudes at Steve Cox Memorial Park‘s Mel Olson Stadium. (1321 SW 102nd, White Center). Go here for tickets.

PRIDE AT THE SKYLARK: Pride 2025 edition of West End Girls brings back Cookie Couture, co-hosting with Fraya Love, check for advance tickets, doors 7 pm, show 8 pm. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

REVELRY ROOM DJ: Saturday spinning starts at 9 pm – tonight it’s DJ Topspin at Revelry Room. (4547 California SW).

SATURDAY NIGHT SK8 PARTY: 9 pm-midnight with DJ Josh, 21+, at Southgate Roller Rink (9646 17th SW, White Center).

KARAOKE AT TALARICO’S: For Saturday night singers, 10 pm karaoke awaits you at Talarico’s Pizzeria. (4718 California SW)

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

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Longtime Fauntleroy Church music director passing the baton to successor

June 27, 2025 10:41 pm

| 1 COMMENT

| Fauntleroy | West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

This weekend marks the end of an era at Fauntleroy Church – Bronwyn Edwards is ending nearly two decades as the church’s music director. Her successor starts next week, as Judy Pickens tells us:

After a nationwide search, Fauntleroy Church, United Church of Christ, has found its new music director close to home. On July 1, Zachary Fitzgerald, a doctoral candidate at the University of Washington, will take the baton from retiring director Bronwyn Edwards.

Zachary earned master’s degrees in choral conducting and vocal performance from Kent State University and is nearing completion of his doctoral degree in vocal performance. His career has included church music director, vocalist, teacher, and instrumentalist (oboe, English horn, and saxophone). Along the way, he deepened his passion for opera and musical theater.

In addition to coordinating music for Sunday services, Zachary will devote the summer to getting better acquainted with the 439-member congregation’s existing choirs and ensembles and plan new performance opportunities, including for children, to start introducing in the fall.

Edwards, meantime, also is retiring from her role with the Boeing Employees Choir, but plans to continue composing and teaching.

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Lots of updates and issues surface @ Alki Community Council’s June 2025 meeting

June 27, 2025 7:32 pm

| 11 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:

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 on 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. (Side note: The date chosen by Argosy for the Christmas Ship visit is considered good news because last year, you might recall, it happened before Thanksgiving!)

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

| 27 COMMENTS

| 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

| 28 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

| 3 COMMENTS

| 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

| 2 COMMENTS

| 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)

MAKE IT LOUD: Skating with live music – tonight, LORBO, Anthers, Spanghew – 9 pm at Southgate Roller Rink (9646 17th SW). 21+. $18 cover/$5 skates.

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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