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From WS Big Band to crafting to crime stats to dine-out school fundraiser, here’s the list for your West Seattle Tuesday
December 9, 2025 9:58 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Photo by Jerry Simmons)

Here are our daily event reminders, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and Holiday Guide:

TOYS FOR TOTS: Drop off new unwrapped toys for the drive at Highstreet Insurance (5431 California SW; WSB sponsor), 8 am-4:30 pm weekdays.

OTHER DONATION DRIVES AND GIVING OPPORTUNITIES … see the growing list in our Holiday Guide!

FREE PLAYSPACE: Indoor play on (another) gray day! West Seattle Church of the Nazarene is opening its free community playspace, 9 am-noon Tuesdays and Thursdays. (42nd/Juneau)

CRIME STATS @ COUNCIL COMMITTEE: At this morning’s meeting of the City Council’s Public Safety Committee, which started a bit late (at 9:37 am), SPD is presenting crime stats for the year so far. (They’re in public comment now so this won’t happen until after 10 pm.) Here’s the slide deck; here’s the agenda; here’s where to watch via Seattle Channel.

KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY & LEARN: New, free play group for kids 0-5 at Bridge School Cooperative Elementary, 10-11:30 am. (10300 28th SW)

POSTCARDS4DEMOCRACY: New postcard-writers as well as returnees are welcome at this weekly advocacy gathering, 10:30 am-noon at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor). Sign up here before you go, if this is your first time.

SSC FOOD TRUCK: South Seattle College culinary students are selling Italian-inspired food from the truck today, 10:30 am-12:30 pm, near the campus Clock Tower. (6000 16th SW)

ROTARY CLUB OF WEST SEATTLE: Student robotics are the spotlight topic at the lunch meeting today – noon at West Seattle Golf Course (4470 35th SW).

CHESS CLUB: All levels welcome! 1:30-3 pm, at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon). Questions? Email conwell@conwelld.net.

OFFICE HOURS WITH DEPARTMENT OF NEIGHBORHOODS: Meet with a DoN rep at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), drop-in basis, 2-5 pm.

(added) DINE-OUT FUNDRAISER: Dine-in or take-out Mioposto Admiral (2139 California SW; WSB sponsor) 4-9 tonight and 20 percent of the proceeds will benefit Admiral Co-op Preschool!

DROP-IN HOMEWORK HELP: Available for K-12 students at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), 4-5:45 pm.

SIP AND CRAFT: Weekly holiday-season event at Harry’s Beach House (2676 Alki SW), 5 pm, ornament-making workshop – our calendar listing has the registration link.

DROP-IN WINE TASTING: 5-8 pm Tuesdays at Walter’s Wine Shop (4811 California SW) – $15 fee, $5 off with bottle purchases.

DEMONSTRATION FOR BLACK LIVES: Long-running weekly sign-waving demonstration on the corners at 16th/Holden. 5-6 pm. Signs available if you don’t bring your own.

TRACK RUN WITH WEST SEATTLE RUNNER: Meet up by 6:15 pm at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) for WSR’s free weekly track run.

WESTSIDE DANCE WITH DEAN: All-ages dance lessons, no partner necessary, first lesson free! 6:30 pm at Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon)

WEST SEATTLE BIG BAND CHRISTMAS JAZZ CONCERT: Free! At Grace Church, 7 pm, as previewed here. (10323 28th SW)

OPEN MIC: 7 pm at Otter on the Rocks (4210 SW Admiral Way).

SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING: Classes continue, 7 pm at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW). Our calendar listing has details including how to check if they have space for you. Space allowing, newcomers are welcome, and the first class is free.

WOMEN’S MEDITATION CIRCLE: Weekly small-group event at Mama Be Well Healing Studio (4034-A California SW), 7 pm. Our calendar listing has info on registering before you participate.

BINGO: Play free Tuesday night Belle of the Balls Bingo at The Skylark, 7 pm. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

TRIVIA X 5: Five locations for trivia tonight – The Beer Junction (4711 California SW), Sporcle Pub Quiz with David at 7 and 8 pm … 7 pm at Ounces (3803 Delridge Way SW), free and hosted by Beat the Geek Trivia; 7 pm at Zeeks Pizza West Seattle (6459 California SW), hosted by Geeks Who Drink; 7 pm at Admiral Pub, free, prizes. (2306 California SW) … Trivia at Christos on Alki (2508 Alki SW), 7:15 pm.

HIGH-SCHOOL BASKETBALL: One varsity home game tonight – West Seattle High School boys host Garfield at 7:30 pm (3000 California SW).

If you are organizing an event, class, performance, gathering, etc., tell your West Seattle neighbors via our event calendar and (if it’s seasonal) Holiday Guide, from which we draw our daily lists too – just email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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‘Noche de Gala’ on December 19 to support Fauntleroy YMCA’s Active Older Adult programming
December 9, 2025 9:07 am
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 |   Fauntleroy | How to help | West Seattle news

One week from Friday, you’re invited to support the Active Older Adult community at the Fauntleroy YMCA at the “Noche de Gala” event. Here’s the announcement we were asked to share:

This is an event celebrating our Active Older Adult community for a night of dressing up, good eats, and remembering the year we had together:

Friday 12/19, 5:30-7:30 pm
Fauntleroy YMCA Chapel Hall
9140 California Ave SW

$25/person. Registration link is here.

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TRAFFIC CAMS, WEATHER, TRANSIT: Tuesday info
December 9, 2025 6:01 am
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 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:01 AM: Good morning! It’s Tuesday, December 9, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET

The forecast for today: More rain. Breezy tonight. High in the low 50s. Sunrise will be at 7:46 am; sunset, at 4:17 pm (as early as it gets, staying there until this weekend, when the sun starts setting later).

TRAFFIC NOTES

If you’re driving or riding on California SW, be prepared for possible delays – Monday, utility-pole work was crowding the outside northbound side at Stevens (by WSHS), and the mobile crane was back at the project north of Oregon, also on the NB side.

TRANSIT TODAY

Washington State Ferries – The Triangle Route is expected to be down to two boats all week. 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.

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

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

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

Low Bridge – Here’s the view looking west. Also note, maritime-opening info is again available via X (ex-Twitter):

1st Avenue South Bridge:

Delridge cameras: In addition to the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.

MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.

See a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Arrest inside Junction business (updated Tuesday)
December 8, 2025 11:56 pm
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 |   Crime | West Seattle news | West Seattle police

11:56 PM: Police arrested a woman found inside a West Seattle Junction business to which they responded tonight when a possible burglary was reported. According to police radio, 911 got a call that someone was seen on live video inside Top Pot Doughnuts around 10 pm, five hours after closing time. Officers told dispatch they found a 21-year-old woman inside the store who had apparently fallen asleep in a restroom while the shop was still open. Whether any evidence of a burglary was actually found is unclear, but they arrested the woman after finding she was the subject of two misdemeanor warrants from Tukwila, and took her to the SCORE jail in Des Moines. We’ll follow up with SPD in the morning.

ADDED 11:34 AM: Here’s the narrative we obtained from SPD:

At approximately 2217 hours, I was dispatched to Top Pot Donuts located at 4709 California Av Sw for a burglary that was being reported by their alarm company. Initial remarks on the call stated “BURG ALARM, FRONT DOOR MOTION/REGISTER MOTION, XXXX TRIP/2203, UNK MALE SEEN ON CAMERA STANDING BY THE REGISTER, UNK WEAPONS.’

At approximately 2225 hours, I arrived in the area with Officers XXXX (3-William-12), XXXX and XXXX (3-William-31), XXXX and XXXX (3-Frank-2). A female, identified herself as XXXX, was found to be locked inside the business and was unable to exit.

The business owner, XXXX XXXX, arrived at the location and was able to unlock the main entrance to allow Officers inside. I contacted XXXX and advised that Officers were audio/video recording prior to her explaining the following.

(She) was unaware of the current time but stated she had arrived at the location and was able to walk in through the front door. Once inside, she entered the single-use bathroom, where she proceeded to use the toilet and then washed her hair in the sink. (She) estimates that she was inside of the bathroom for about an hour.

When (she) exited the bathroom, she was unable to leave the premise because all of the doors, including the front door that she had entered, was locked. (Her) cellphone was dead but she located a landline that she used to call security. Security arrived at the location with Officers and confirmed that they had received a phone call from the business.

(she) stated she only walked around the premise to look for a way to exit, and did not take any items. (she) eventually admitted to eating a donut off of a speed tray and drinking some bottled juice. When asked about the merchandise on her person, she also admitted to taking them. Two beanies and a reusable bag were returned to the owner, who stated he wanted her to be trespassed from the location.

Officer XXXX spoke with the owner, XXXX, who confirmed that the business had closed hours prior at 1700 hours. The business is generally closed at 1700 hours with employees usually leaving at 1830 hours. XXXX stated that it was possible that (the woman) had entered the premise during business hours and that employees had not checked the bathroom prior to locking the doors. XXXX also stated that (she) may have entered at 2030 hours when the delivery man entered to drop donuts.

While locating (her) DOL information, a valid misdemeanor warrant for theft 3 was located out of Tukwila . The warrant was issued 04/26/2024 for $1,000.

Officer XXXX verified the warrant with Data. (she) was taken into custody and advised that she was under arrest for the warrant. I searched (her) incident to arrest at the hood of Officer XXXX’s patrol vehicle. Officer XXXX read her Miranda. Officer XXXX transported (her) from the scene to SCORE jail where she was booked without incident.

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‘We need the dates!’ Parent’s plea to Seattle Public Schools as graduation week collides with FIFA World Cup
December 8, 2025 9:41 pm
|      12 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools | WS & Sports

(WSB photo by Oliver Hamlin, Chief Sealth IHS graduation last June)

No graduations in the shadow of the Space Needle this year, since Memorial Stadium is getting rebuilt. But that’s not why Class of 2026 parents have a plea for Seattle Public Schools now, with a half-year to go. The district has announced only that graduation ceremonies will be held June 10-12 and June 15-17. That means graduation travelers – grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc. coming here from afar – are competing with FIFA World Cup travelers, since the first of the six Seattle matches is June 15. Arin, parent of a Chief Sealth IHS senior, is asking other Seattle seniors’ parents to implore the district to publicize specific dates ASAP – here’s what Arin wrote:

Email principals, SPS executives, and school board directors to demand they release 2026 graduation dates!

Families are now competing with World Cup for hotels and travel accommodations. WE NEED DATES!! Feel free to copy and paste:

I am writing to express serious concern about the continued delay in releasing the Class of 2026 school specific graduation dates. With Seattle hosting the World Cup, hotel and travel costs during this period are skyrocketing. Every week that passes without confirmed dates makes it significantly harder — and in many cases financially impossible — for families to plan to attend their students’ graduation ceremonies.

This issue goes beyond inconvenience. It raises real equity and inclusivity concerns. Families with limited financial flexibility are disproportionately affected by the district’s lack of timely communication.

Graduation is meant to be a unifying, inclusive celebration for all students and their loved ones — not an event that only those who can afford last-minute travel arrangements are able to experience. Hotels are now requiring a minimum of 3 nights stay at inflated rates.

Other districts have already published their graduation calendars. Seattle Public Schools should not be putting its own families at a disadvantage.

I respectfully urge the district to release the Class of 2026 graduation dates immediately. The delay is creating unnecessary hardship and undermining the district’s stated commitments to equity and inclusion.

It is NOT at all helpful to finally tell families that is will be sometime between June 10-17 but not June 13-14. You’re letting your students and families down.

The neighboring Highline district, for example, announced its schedule in October.

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Another West Seattle meeting with SPD announced: ‘Our City, Our Safety’ series due here in March
December 8, 2025 9:16 pm
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 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle police

For the second time today, SPD has announced a West Seattle community meeting. This time, it’s part of a series called “Our City, Our Safety 2026,” with one meeting per month for 10 months, in 10 neighborhoods around the city; the third will be held at Alki Bathhouse (2701 Alki SW), 6 pm Wednesday, March 11. From the announcement:

… What differentiates this series is how the information will be used and, eventually, shared back with stakeholders. At the first of two annual meetings in each Seattle precinct, police officials – including Chief Shon Barnes and each precinct captain – will present information and gather feedback and ideas from attendees. And at the second meeting, they will share results, lessons learned, unexpected impacts, and other updates to continuously improve and create accountability. …

What can you expect?

The Seattle Police Department and Department of Neighborhoods designed a 90-minute meeting that combines the best of a town hall with the best of a neighborhood watch program. Participants will have the chance to hear directly from police officials and each other. The meeting also features a roundtable portion where they can have more in-depth conversations about urgent concerns to try to co-develop solutions or examine the department’s past efforts.

… The concept is grounded in research that indicates that when residents come together with police to discuss their concerns, solutions, and ideas, they can create collaborative safety strategies that truly reflect the unique needs of each neighborhood. The series is designed to complement the Seattle Police Department’s current efforts, including its active advisory councils such as the West Seattle Advisory Council, the LGBTQ Advisory Council, and the Belltown Advisory Council and local business engagements such as Coffee with a Cop. …

You can see the full announcement here.

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WEST SEATTLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: On 34th Avenue, with 34th Street spirit
December 8, 2025 8:09 pm
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 |   West Seattle Christmas lights | West Seattle news

Tonight’s Christmas lights spotlight: Eric‘s display at 5629 34th Avenue SW, which has become a tradition … evoking Christmas spirit a la “Miracle on 34th Street” even though here in West Seattle the numbered streets are Avenue. He also added the greeting to the image he’s sharing this year. Thanks to everyone who’s sending photos and/or tips – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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BIZNOTES: ‘Pray for Snow’; Baked Alaska; new clinic; national award
December 8, 2025 6:07 pm
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 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

Four biznotes this afternoon!

‘PRAY FOR SNOW’ PARTY: Lots of rain down here doesn’t necessarily translate into lots of rain up there – yet – as our 4 pm screengrab from the Stevens Pass summit traffic cam shows. But West Seattle’s winter-sports shop Mountain to Sound Outfitters (3602 SW Alaska; WSB sponsor) is keeping the faith with a “Pray for Snow” party this Thursday night, writes Lauren from M2SO:

We are throwing a party this Thursday, December 11th, starting at 6 pm. The event will be at our shop, ski parking lot style. We will be giving away a pair of skis, have a free hot-wax table set up, and a fire pit outside. We’d love to see people there.

Mountain to Sound Outfitters recently celebrated its 16th anniversary – opening on Black Friday in 2009.

BAKED ALASKA: Shug’s Mini at California SW and SW Charlestown has a wintry dessert special for you to preorder and bake and serve at home:

We are offering the community an opportunity to experience one of the best ice cream desserts around! Shug’s Soda Fountain & Ice Cream is selling Baked Alaska’s. This holiday cake is layered with peppermint and chocolate ice cream, chocolate cake, and insulating meringue. The cakes will be baked at home when the time is right! We are accepting pre-orders for the season, with pickup available on December 21-23. The cost is $65.

Shug’s says one Baked Alaska will serve 6 to 8 people. You can pre-order at the shop or online at shugssodafountain.com.

UPWARD OPENS: In October, we mentioned that Upward PT was taking over the Morgan Junction space that held Paper Boat Booksellers (WSB sponsor) before their move to 4522 California SW in The Junction. Now they’re officially open, according to this anouncement we received from Dr. Linn Zhang:

I wanted to let West Seattle residents know that there’s a new PT clinic at 6040 California Ave SW. It just opened this week, and we are so excited to be serving this neighborhood. We specialize in rehabbing and prepping runners, hikers, swimmers and outdoor enthusiasts of all levels! Find us at upwardptseattle.com or on Instagram

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RAMBO TOTAL PEST CONTROL INDUSTRY AWARD: Rambo Total Pest Control (WSB sponsor), whose founder has generations of West Seattle roots, is proud that a longtime staffer has received a national award:

Rambo Total Pest Control proudly announces that Christopher Somers earns ACE Professional Award, a national recognition presented by the Entomological Society of America for excellence in structural pest management. This national recognition honors an outstanding Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) who demonstrates exceptional contributions to the field of structural pest management and serves as a leader within the industry.
Christopher Somers joined Rambo Total Pest Control in 2013 and has steadily grown into a leadership role marked by technical knowledge, commitment to quality, and dedication to professional growth. The ACE Professional Award is presented annually to a single individual who exemplifies excellence in pest management industry participation, internal organizational development, community impact, and mentorship of future professionals. Somers’ recognition reflects his exceptional contributions across all these criteria over the past decade. The Entomological Society of America selects one ACE each year for this distinction, making it one of the most competitive awards in the pest control field.

Though Rambo’s HQ is in Puyallup, founder Luke Rambo has deep West Seattle roots and has many clients in this area.

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80% of voters approved it. Now, how to spend it? West Seattle conversation Thursday
December 8, 2025 4:15 pm
|      15 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

80 percent of Seattle voters said “yes” last month to Proposition 1, the six-year, $1.2 billion renewal/expansion of the Families, Education, Preschool, Promise levy. Now – how will the money be spent? We just got this announcement of a Thursday “community conversation” in West Seattle:

The Seattle Department of Education & Early Learning is hosting a series of community conversations, designed for families, youth, and community to learn about the planned Families, Education, Preschool, & Promise Levy (FEPP) investments in child care and education and share what matters most to them! We’d love to invite community members to join upcoming sessions:

Thursday, December 11, 5:30–7:30 PM
Denny International Middle School, 2601 SW Kenyon

This event will offer a brief overview of planned FEPP Levy investments in child care and education, along with time for community members to share their input. Free dinner, interpretation services, and children’s activities will be provided. Space is limited, so we encourage RSVPs: bit.ly/FEPPCommunityConversations

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UPDATE: Crash at California/Findlay
December 8, 2025 2:38 pm
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 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

2:38 PM: No major injuries reported, but a two-vehicle crash at California/Findlay – where the intersection has a pedestrian island – is reported to be blocking part of the street, so if you have to get through that area, you might want to take an alternate north/south route – like Fauntleroy – for a while.

2:41 PM: Police just told dispatch that the northbound side is blocked.

(WSB photo)

3:01 PM: Just went down for a look. Police are routing some traffic around it. The scene is south of the intersection.

3:34 PM: Officers just told dispatch they’re reopening all lanes. We’re checking with SFD re: injuries.

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Question/concern for police? Next Southwest Precinct community meeting set for January 13
December 8, 2025 1:21 pm
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 |   Southwest Precinct Crime Prevention Council | West Seattle news | West Seattle police

Every few months, the Southwest Precinct Advisory Council – local police and community-group reps, plus whoever else shows up – meets to talk and hear about West Seattle/South Park crime/safety concerns. The date has just been announced for the next one: Tuesday, January 13, 6:30 pm, at the precinct (2300 SW Webster). No official agenda yet, but if you’re interested in going, set your calendar now. (Here’s our coverage of the previous SWPAC meeting in October.)

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HOLIDAY MUSIC: Two places to see and hear the West Seattle Big Band this week
December 8, 2025 11:45 am
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 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

These two performances this week just might be the brassiest, jazziest, liveliest you’ll see and hear all holiday season long! The preview is from West Seattle Big Band director Jim Edwards:

The West Seattle Big Band will be presenting a free Holiday Concert in cooperation with North Shorewood’s Grace Church Tuesday, December 9th at 7:00 PM. The Concert will feature Christmas favorites with that classic big band sound. Rumor is there will be a cookie intermission too. Grace Church is located at 10323 28th Ave SW. Just south of SW Roxbury St.

WSBB will also be the featured Saturday night dance band at the West Seattle Eagles on December 13th. A dinner of Baked Ziti will be available for purchase at $15 prior to the show at 5:30 PM. First come, first served. All proceeds of the dinner will go to the Music Boosters at James Madison Middle School. Space is limited. No reservations will be taken for the meal. The evening of music starts at 7:00 PM with 3 sets concluding at 10:00 PM. Music will include some Christmas favorites as well as big band swing and jazz. There is no cover charge for the event, but a tip jar will be available with 100% of the proceeds of the evening going to the Madison instrumental music program. The event entrance is off the alley behind the Eagles Building at 4426 California Ave SW.

West Seattle Big Band is a working big band with a community mindset. They are an all-volunteer group formed in 1996, dedicated to supporting instrumental music education in our community’s public schools.

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Our list for your blustery West Seattle Monday
December 8, 2025 9:58 am
|      10 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Perfect weather for this Reticulate Taildropper slug photographed at Schmitz Park by Rosalie Miller)

While we watch the weather, with a Wind Advisory remaining in effect all day and into the evening, here’s what’s on the schedule in West Seattle, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and Holiday Guide (got something to add? please send info!):

TOY DRIVE FOR SALVATION ARMY FAMILIES: Three dropoff spots through Friday, including Kinetic Physical Therapy in West Seattle (4828 California SW)l

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, and we’re continuing to add more – whatever you can give, whenever you can give!

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.

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 3: Three venues for trivia tonight! 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).

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!

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PHOTOS: Visiting Fauntleroy Church’s Festival of Trees
December 8, 2025 9:00 am
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 |   Fauntleroy | Holidays | How to help | West Seattle news

Many holiday happenings are scheduled for nights and weekends. Here’s one you can visit on a weekend morning, if you’re free at this time of day … the Fauntleroy Church Festival of Trees is open for drop-in visits, 9 am to noon Mondays through Thursdays, all month long, plus two weekend windows we’ll mention at the end of this story.16 trees are placed around the Fellowship Hall, and no two are alike.

The Peanut Butter Tree, by the church’s Caring Ministry, is in the spirit of the event, which is also a food drive – bring a can or jar or package and place it under your favorite to “vote”! Then there’s the tree that fuses two holidays:

“Boos and Sparkles” was created by the Fulford Family. Another tree offers a quiz of sorts:

Students of Low Tide Arts (in the same building as the church and Y) ask whether you recognize any of these famous artworks! On the other side of the room, the theme is Seattle sports:

“A Fellowship Group” created the sports tree. At another tree, you can learn “The Legend of the Christmas Spider“:

That was entered by the Tucker/Dwyer Family. Sixteen trees in all (thanks to Judy Pickens for this list) are set up, so we’ve barely shown you a third – go stop by the Fellowship Hall at the church (9140 California SW) and bring a food donation if you can. If you can’t get there on a weekday morning, you can also visit the trees during a 6 pm reception before the church’s 7 pm Christmas concert on Saturday, December 20, and during the reception after the 4 pm concert on Sunday, December 21.

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TRAFFIC CAMS, WEATHER, TRANSIT: Monday begins
December 8, 2025 6:00 am
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 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:00 AM: Good morning! It’s Monday, December 8, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET

The forecast for today: Wind Advisory in effect most of today/tonight, more rain, high in the upper 50s. Sunrise will be at 7:45 am; sunset, at 4:17 pm (as early as it gets, and it starts getting later this weekend).

TRANSIT TODAY

Washington State Ferries – The Triangle Route is expected to be down to two boats for about a week starting today. 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.

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

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

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

Low Bridge – Here’s the view looking west. Also note, maritime-opening info is again available via X (ex-Twitter):

1st Avenue South Bridge:

Delridge cameras: In addition to the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.

MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.

See a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!

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WEEK AHEAD: Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth down to two ferries starting tomorrow
December 7, 2025 8:53 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   Fauntleroy | Transportation | West Seattle news

Early tomorrow, Washington State Ferries‘ M/V Chelan “will go out of service for maintenance, repairs, and inspections,” WSF says. They don’t have a boat to replace it on the Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth run, so the Triangle Route will be down to two boats for a week or so. (The two-boat schedules are linked from the WSF Alerts page.)

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WEST SEATTLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: Brightest balcony
December 7, 2025 6:56 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle Christmas lights | West Seattle news

Returning to our Christmas-light spotlights tonight after a weekend of tree lightings, the brightest balcony in West Seattle is aglow again! We’ve shown this North Admiral balcony on the west side of California near SW Atlantic before, but the decorators change things up, so it’s not a rerun (here’s another reader’s 2022 photo, for example, and a sparser-but-merry look in 2019). Thanks to Cindi for the photo; through Christmas, photos and/or tips are appreciated at westseattleblog@gmail.com, or texted to 206-293-6302 – thank you! (See past spotlights by scrolling through this WSB archive.)

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WEST SEATTLE SKY: Sunset milestone for those lamenting the loss of light
December 7, 2025 5:53 pm
|      11 COMMENTS
 |   Skies Over West Seattle | West Seattle news

(Constellation Park photo by Victoria Gnatoka)

Even before the mentioned-earlier Wind Advisory kicks in, it’s still blustery enough for wave action against Beach Drive seawalls. But the big news was what happened once the sun slipped behind the cloudbank to the west – tonight’s official sunset time, 4:17 pm, is the earliest it will get; that’ll remain the sunset time through next Saturday (December 13), and then next Sunday, it’ll be 4:18 pm. Even as the sunset starts getting later, the sunrise will too, hitting its latest point -7:57 am – on December 27, and staying there through January 5 (by which time the sunset will be at 4:33 pm).

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WEST SEATTLE WEATHER: Wind Advisory alert for Monday
December 7, 2025 3:40 pm
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle weather

(Friday evening photo sent by Greg Snyder – downed madrona limb on Charlestown Hill west of 46th)

Check your trees for loose limbs and charge your devices – another windstorm might be on the way, this time with advance notice. The National Weather Service has announced a Wind Advisory alert for our area for 7 am to 10 pm tomorrow (Monday, December 8). The NWS prediction is for sustained “south winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 45 mph.”

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WEEK AHEAD: If Southern Resident Killer Whales are in local waters, Mark and Maya Sears likely are too. Hear from them at The Whale Trail’s winter gathering Thursday
December 7, 2025 1:47 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | Whales

If you care about Puget Sound’s resident orcas, The Whale Trail‘s winter gathering is the place to be this Thursday night, Here are updated details:

(J pod in Puget Sound. Front to back: J40 [Suttles], her daughter J63 [as yet unnamed], her brother J45 [Se-Yi’-Chn’. J63 is the newest calf in the southern resident population, currently 74 individuals [Maya Sears, Permit 27052])

The Whale Trail Winter Gathering 2025
Celebrating 50 Years of Puget Sound Orca Research
with Mark Sears and Maya Sears

Please join us for our Winter Gathering as we celebrate orca researcher Mark Sears and his 50 years of contributions to our understanding of orcas and other whales in central Puget Sound.

Mark has been a participant in and witness to the history and evolution of orca research in this region. His career as an orca researcher began in 1976, when he participated in the first Orca Survey following the last capture of orcas in Puget Sound. Over the past five decades he’s documented the presence and behaviors of whales in central Puget Sound, often assisted by his daughter Maya. In 1998, Mark was the first researcher to spot Tahlequah (J35) shortly after she was born, and given the opportunity to name her.

In 2002, Mark confirmed the sighting of a young orca near Vashon Island. She was soon identified as Springer (A73), an orphaned orca who was 300 miles away from home. While NOAA considered her fate, Mark monitored her behaviors – and discovered she liked to play with sticks! Later that summer Springer was rescued, rehabilitated and returned to her pod on the north end of Vancouver Island. Today she is thriving, with three calves of her own.

Animal behaviorist Maya joined her father as a NOAA-permitted orca researcher in 2018. Their work has been critical to broadening our knowledge of the diets, behaviors and life histories of the endangered southern resident orcas. Mark and Maya will share photos and findings from recent encounters with southern residents, including two superpods.

What: The Whale Trail Winter Gathering
Celebrating 50 Years of Puget Sound Orca Research with Mark Sears and Maya Sears.
When: Thursday December 11, 7 PM to 8:30
Doors open at 6:15
Where: C&P Coffee Company, 5612 California Ave SW
Tickets: $10 suggested donation, kids under 12 free.
Advance tickets: brownpapertickets.com

Join us to celebrate the season and the remarkable work of local orca heroes. Get tickets now, this will likely sell out!

Also, it’s not too late to help Welcome the Orcas! You have until December 15th to submit a poem or story for The Whale Trail’s Writing Contest, or participate in the community Pod Passport game. Learn more at The Whale Trail website.

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HOLIDAY GIVING: Pathfinder K-8 wreath sales in The Junction (next two Sundays too)
December 7, 2025 12:37 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

Many West Seattle Farmers Market booths have holiday greenery today, but if you venture just a few steps south of the market, you can buy a handmade wreath that helps students. Pathfinder K-8’s famous wreaths and other “door decor” are available at a booth on the SW corner of California/Alaska, raising money for outdoor education. Above, Cienna and Kyra are there today; you’ll find volunteers there during market hours the next two Sundays too.

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WEST SEATTLE SCENE: Holiday bazaar at West Seattle Eagles
December 7, 2025 10:56 am
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 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

Thanks to Anne for the photos. If you’re heading to The Junction for the Farmers’ Market (or another destination!) today, you can browse and buy at a holiday bazaar too – the West Seattle Eagles’ bazaar. More than 18 vendors with items from preserves to art!

As featured on today’s event list and in our Holiday Guide, they’re planning to be open until 3 pm, at 4426 California SW (next to the. post office).

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WEST SEATTLE SUNDAY: 33 holiday and non-holiday options!
December 7, 2025 6:03 am
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 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Seen on Beach Drive – photo sent by Cindi)

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.

WEST SEATTLE EAGLES BAZAAR: 18 local vendors, 9 am-3 pm. (4426 California SW)

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, self-guided tour of Vashon Islaand artists’ studios, just a ferry ride away. Info and locations at vivartists.com. (WSB sponsor)

DIY PHOTOS WITH SANTA & ELVES: $25, benefit for animal rescue, at The Hydrant, 10 am-2 pm. (4541 California SW)

‘MESSIAH’ AT WEST SIDE PRESBYTERIAN: Handel’s classic, with choir, soloists, and the Northwest Symphony Orchestra, 10 am. (3601 California SW)

SWEET REEL HOLIDAY MAKERS’ MARKET: 11 am-4 pm, homemade goodies to eat and drink too. (5001 Delridge Way SW)

RAIN CITY CLAY HOLIDAY ART SHOW & SALE: Rain City Clay in Arbor Heights is hosting a holiday show & sale again today, featuring dozens of artists who work with clay.

(WSB photo from show’s opening reception)

Hours today are 11 am-5 pm. (4208 SW 100th)

WESTWOOD ART STUDIO HOLIDAY ART SHOW & SALE: Two-weekend group show and sale, 12 pm-5 pm today, more info here.

(WSB photo from show’s opening reception – artist Elena Ruhieh)

(9042 31st SW)

MAKERS ART MARKET: Noon-5 pm at Alki Bathhouse (2701 Alki SW), more than 20 artists/makers are participating.

BARRE 3 SIP AND SHOP: 1-4 pm, local vendors, plus wine! (3218 California SW)

CHAMPAGNE EVENT: West Seattle Wine Cellars (6026 California SW) hosts a champagne event at 2 pm – details and registration link here.

REVITALIZE SPA HOLIDAY PARTY WITH SHOPPING: 4-8 pm event. (8142 15th SW)

CHRISTMAS TREES: As noted here, every place that sells them in West Seattle is up and running! Scroll through the Holiday Guide any time for the list.

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, 5 pm and onward tonight. Tickets and info here.

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

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

WESTIES RUN CLUB: Sunday run is back this week – 9 am, leaving from C & P Coffee. (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor)

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.

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

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)

FOOD DRIVE & SIGN-HOLDING: West Seattle Resist‘s Sunday 11:30 am-1:30 pm sign-holding events also include a drop-off food drive through the rest of the year. South of Farmers’ Market. (California SW and SW Alaska)

LEARN ABOUT EVERGREENS: Garden Hotline presentation at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond, 1:30 pm. Registration required.

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)

GUIDED BREATHWORK JOURNEY: 2-5 pm – RSVP for location.

WEST SEATTLE MODERN CLASSIC BOOK CLUB: 3 pm, Paper Boat Booksellers (4522 California SW; WSB sponsor) – this month’s book is “Ceremony” by Leslie Marmon Silko.

LIVE MUSIC AT C & P COFFEE: Monthly Circle of Songs, 3-5 pm. All ages, no cover. (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor)

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

SCREAM CLUB SEATTLE: 3:30 pm gathering at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW) to scream away your stress, grief, etc.

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!

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