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Spotlight Stories


  • Closure

    LOW-BRIDGE CLOSURE: This weekend’s plan

  • Safety

    VIDEO: Crime Q&A with police, politicians

  • Loop

    LOOP THE ‘LUPE: Are you set for Saturday?

WEST SEATTLE SATURDAY: 33 notes as your weekend begins
April 12, 2025 6:07 am
|    Comments Off on WEST SEATTLE SATURDAY: 33 notes as your weekend begins
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Friday sunbreak, photographed by James Bratsanos)

Second Saturday of April, and if you’re not leaving town for spring break, many options await! First, a transportation reminder:

WATER TAXI SPRING/SUMMER SCHEDULE STARTS: Starting tonight, the West Seattle Water Taxi has later sailings on Saturday (and Friday) nights. Here’s the announcement, including the schedule.

Now, the happening-Saturday highlights, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

RECORD STORE DAY AT EASY STREET: It’s the biggest day of the year at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW), which opens at 7 am for the special day’s special deals – with a free donut for the first 100 people in line (and other freebies) – and hosts a sold-out show by SYML tonight. If you’re there early, you might also get to see the legendary Melvins‘ van.

SATURDAY GROUP RUN, ANNIVERSARY EDITION, AND MORE: 15th anniversary celebration continues at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) at 8 am:

Mizuno and Superfeet group run at 8 am. You can try out Mizuno and Superfeet on your run. We will follow up the run with donuts and chocolate milk afterward.

Mark Bouma, owner of Lake Washington PT West Seattle, will be on site doing 1:1 assessments from 8:40 to 10:30 am. We will have Hawthorne Massage doing chair massage 10-12.

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

TLC FOR PUGET PARK: Meet at 19th/Dawson at 9 am for trailbuilding and blackberry removal. All ages welcome. Details and signup link 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: Then at 10 am, join others for the full weekly walk in Lincoln Park (also meet at 47th/Fauntleroy).

‘WEST SEATTLE RESISTS’: New weekly rally in The Junction, 10 am-noon, all welcome, as explained by organizers here.

BOOK GROUP AT THE MOUNT: As previewed here, all are welcome to come discuss “Don’t Walk Away,” 10 am, at Providence Mount St. Vincent. (4831 35th SW)

MORNING MUSIC AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: Susan Pascal, Jamie Findlay, Chris Symer, 10:30 am-noon at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor).

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

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

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

ALKI HISTORY WALKING TOUR: Second one of the series is sold out! If you did get a spot, 11 am is when to meet at the Log House Museum (61st/Stevens).

FREE TAX HELP: 11 am-3 pm at West Seattle (Admiral) Library (2306 42nd SW) – but if you don’t already have a slot reserved, you’re probably out of luck.

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

UW BEACH VOLLEYBALL AT ALKI: Second and final day of the Huskies’ only tournament at Alki Beach this season. They split a doubleheader on Friday and open today’s play at 11:15 am – more info here.

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

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

PLANT SWAP AT HOSTE: 12 pm-4 pm, a master gardener from West Seattle Nursery (WSB sponsor) will be at Hoste in Admiral (2332 California SW) – drop in with potted plants and/or propagations for the community plant swap.

FAUNTLEROY EGG HUNT: First major egg hunt of the season! 1 pm at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse (9131 California SW), presented by the Fauntleroy Community Association, free. Littlest kids go first, hunting for prize-filled (no candy) eggs.

MAKE CERAMIC BIRD FEEDERS: 1-3 pm at The Clay Cauldron (5214 Delridge Way SW) with Frances – our calendar listing explains how to preregister.

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).

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

LIVE AT C & P: The Tune Tourists, 6-8 pm at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor).

PASSOVER BEGINS: First of eight days/nights for the Jewish festival. (Any community events in West Seattle this year? Please let us know!)

LIVE AT KENYON HALL: Doors 7, show 7:30, pianist Ray Skjelbred at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW).

LIVE AT THE SKYLARK: Doors 7, show 8, The Nightshift, Sinking Dolls, The Commute bring indie rock to The Skylark, $10. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

‘ATHENA’ AT ARTSWEST: Third performance, 7:30 pm at ArtsWest Playhouse (4711 California SW), for the new production “Athena,” by Gracie Gardner – get tickets here.

OUT AT THE BOX: Drag show at Box Bar (5401 California SW), 9:30 pm. No cover. 21+.

REVELRY ROOM DJ: Spinning starts at 9 pm with Soul Focus FM at Revelry Room. (4547 California SW)

MACHINE LEARNING DANCE EVENT: Monthly West Side dance event at Lumber Yard Bar (9630 16th SW, White Center), 9 pm-2 am – this month’s details are here.

KARAOKE AT TALARICO’S: Want to sing on your Saturday night? 10 pm at Talarico’s Pizzeria. (4718 California SW)

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

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DEVELOPMENT FOLLOWUP: Sign of life for long-shelved West Seattle project
April 11, 2025 11:02 pm
|      17 COMMENTS
 |   Development | West Seattle news

New hope that redevelopment might finally happen at the long-vacant strip-mall/restaurant sites in the 5200 block of California SW. The demolition permit was renewed back in February; now two expired construction permits are being reviewed for renewal, and the city permit system has the explanatory notation “Ownership is working to obtain funds to move forward with the project.” The project as first proposed back in 2017 was for 18 rowhouse-style townhouses. Then in 2023, a senior-living complex was proposed instead, but that was scrapped. It’s been almost nine years since the strip mall’s previous major tenant moved further north into The Junction; as for the two ex-restaurants, the former Papa John’s closed in 2017, and Thaitan (on the corner) closed in 2019. Records indicate the combined redevelopment site hasn’t changed ownership since around the time of most of the closures.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Police report robbery arrest, saying the weapon was hot coffee
April 11, 2025 8:27 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

From SPD Blotter, an arrest last night in the 5400 block of Delridge. Police say they arrested a 33-year-old woman and booked her into the King County Jail for investigation of robbery “after she reportedly stole hot coffee … and then threw (it) at a clerk when she was asked to pay.” They say the 45-year-old clerk suffered “severe pain” and had a “bright red face, neck, and chest.” SFD treated him but he declined a trip to the hospital. The suspect is accused of filling two cups wth hot coffee and leaving with one around 9 pm; the clerk said he followed her outside and asked her to pay – then, he said, she threw the coffee at his face and chest. Police found her nearby and arrested her. We don’t have her name, but checking the jail roster, we see a 33-year-old woman booked late last night who is still behind bars, bail set at $3,000.

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WEST SEATTLE SCENE: Rock Walk in The Junction, to raise money for Summer Fest music
April 11, 2025 5:46 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   Fun stuff to do | How to help | West Seattle news

That’s the scene inside Jet City Labs, one of the two epicenters for tonight’s Rock Walk – check-in spot as well as a place you can still get a ticket if you didn’t buy one in advance for the sip-and-stroll event raising money to maximize music at West Seattle Summer Fest. At the door of JCL (4547 California SW), say hi to a man who knows a thing or two about music, proprietor Derek Moon:

His venue also is hosting one of tonight’s beverage providers, Offset Ciderworks. While briefly in The Junction, we also stopped in at another participating venue, Easy Street Records, where you’ll find Brennan and Paige from Sleight of Hand Cellars on the café stage:

Easy Street is gearing up for a huge day tomorrow – open at 7 am Saturday for Record Store Day. But in the meantime, if you’re not already on the Rock Walk, go get a ticket at Jet City or at John L. Scott (4445 California SW), and enjoy your 12 choices from among 30+ adult-beverage providers at 30 venues – listed here – and know you’re giving a lift to Summer Fest, now just three months away! Rock Walk is on until 9 tonight.

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WEST SEATTLE WILDLIFE: Daytime coyote sightings
April 11, 2025 3:53 pm
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   Coyotes | West Seattle news | Wildlife

Two more sighting reports sent to us, first one just after 1 pm today:

Big coyote spotted on 31st and Thistle. It just tried to follow a friend who was walking a small dog.

That one came in anonymously via text. The next one was via email, reported by Tim Van Liew on Thursday:

Taking a walk through Camp Long … and as I approached the golf course access road, I observed 3 coyotes out on the greens.

As always, our standard reminder: We publish coyote sightings for awareness, not alarm; expert advice on avoiding conflicts includes “never run from a coyote” and don’t enable their access to food – from unsecured garbage to unattended small pets. Read more here.

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VIDEO: West Seattle High School celebrates national recognition for Unified Sports program
April 11, 2025 2:18 pm
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools | WS & Sports

That photo wrapped up a celebration today at West Seattle High School – and at the heart of it is what’s directly over the athletes, school staffers, and sports mascots who gathered for the group shot: A newly unveiled banner in honor of national recognition for WSHS’s Unified Sports program:

As shown in the close-up photo, it now hangs in the WSHS gym next to a banner recognizing the program’s achievements in recent years. Special Olympics of Washington explains it in this excerpt from their announcement of today’s banner unveiling:

For its work in empowering students to be agents of change in their school and community, West Seattle High School (received) a Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools National Banner …

West Seattle is one of two schools in Washington to achieve National Banner status in 2025 and is the first school in the Seattle school district to receive this recognition. To add even more kudos, West Seattle also made the ESPN Honor Roll, which is a national list of schools recognized by ESPN and Special Olympics for their efforts in creating inclusive environments for students with and without intellectual disabilities. Only one high school is selected from each state and West Seattle was recognized for Washington.

A Unified Champion Schools National Banner is a major achievement for the entire school for meeting 10 standards of excellence. These national standards revolve around inclusion, advocacy and respect; they include implementing sustainable programs around Special Olympics Unified Sports (where students with and without intellectual disabilities train and compete as teammates), inclusive youth leadership and engagement throughout the whole school.

We were invited to cover the student-organized all-school spring pep assembly this morning during which the banner was unveiled following cheers led by former Seahawks player turned Special Olympics ambassador Ray Roberts:

As shown in the clip, WSHS’s Unified Sports coordinator Rachel Myers was honored too. We also recorded a longer version starting with students talking about the program before the assembly heard from Special Olympics of Washington president/CEO Mary Do, who reminded the school community, “You made this happen” (she speaks starting 5:20 into the clip):

The National Banner status was first announced last fall, at which time the school noted the banner itself would arrive in spring.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Stolen red Sportage
April 11, 2025 12:22 pm
|    Comments Off on WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Stolen red Sportage
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Sent by Danny:

My 2019 red Kia Sportage was stolen off of Fauntleroy and Juneau yesterday, License plate # CKT6250. Front driver’s handle is missing. 25-96523 is the incident number.

Call 911 if you find it.

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FOLLOWUP: Parks Board approves fewer summer hours for Alki Beach & Don Armeni, fewer year-round hours for Hamilton Viewpoint
April 11, 2025 11:20 am
|      24 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle beaches | West Seattle news | West Seattle parks

Story by Jason Grotelueschen
Reporting for West Seattle Blog 

Summer visitors to some of West Seattle’s most popular parks will likely have slightly fewer hours to enjoy them. 

As we’ve been reporting (including last week, and a couple of weeks before that), Seattle Parks had been considering “permanent seasonal” reductions (Memorial Day to Labor Day, for all upcoming summers) to the hours during which several parks across the city are open, including our own Alki Beach Park and Don Armeni Boat Ramp, as well as a permanent reduction in hours for Hamilton Viewpoint Park.

On Thursday night, the city’s advisory Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners held a public hearing and vote, and the board unanimously approved the proposal, which now goes to the Parks superintendent Anthony-Paul (“AP”) Diaz (who was in attendance on Thursday night) to issue a final decision, which would be followed by necessary city clerk filings and then updates to parks signage and websites. 

Of the impacted Seattle parks that are specifically in the West Seattle area, the now-approved proposal calls for:

  • Alki Beach closing one hour earlier at 10:30 pm rather than 11:30 pm (just like last summer) and being open 4am-1030pm daily in the summer
  • Don Armeni boat ramp shifting away from 24hrs/day to instead match the Alki hours of 4am-1030pm daily in the summer
  • Hamilton Viewpoint Park would have a permanent year-round change, shifting from the current 4am-11:30 pm timeframe to a new reduced timeframe of 6am-10pm (this is based on the results of a pilot program dating back to 2015).  

The meeting on Thursday was a “hybrid” forum, with the board and a handful of in-person attendees gathering downtown at Seattle Parks HQ, while others joined online via Zoom. Public participation was light, with two “general commenters” who signed up and offered thoughts about overall parks concerns, but zero commenters signed up or in attendance to speak specifically about the proposed hourly changes. However, commission members did make reference to some emailed comments from West Seattle residents, as well as “comments on the West Seattle Blog,” summarized as such:

  • Via email: Two heartfelt thanks from WS residents in favor of the change, and one question about parking on Harbor Ave which, in some areas, is a “no parking” zone from 11 pm-5 pm, which means there is one hour of misalignment in the morning when nearby Don Armeni and Alki Beach will be open (at 4 am) but no parking is allowed on Harbor Ave until 5am.  Attendees at the meeting said they’d look into that. 
  • WSB comments: At least two commissioners made note of comments here on WSB stories regarding the proposal, describing them as a “mixed reaction,” but noting that many commenters do understand and agree “that the changes are being made to help make things safer.”

From last month’s meeting slides, here are two tables showing the city-wide changes that were proposed and now approved:

Commissioners noted that the rationale for the changes included fire safety (particularly for Alki and Golden Gardens), managing late-night noise and problematic “non-boating activity” on the boat ramps, and aligning hours and resources with SPD and other resources.  Commissioners added that although public commentary on the issue was minimal, the department had done the best it could to get the word out via their web and social channels, and in local news and blogs and social media. Two commissioners suggested the need for a future “comprehensive approach” to park hours, noting that numerous parks (such as Ravenna) have late-night hours but minimal/no lighting, which probably should be evaluated, and others agreed. 

In Thursday’s meeting, commissioners discussed the general positive sentiment about the proposal among board members, and among the (admittedly small) number of comments gathered online and via email (again, there was nobody signed up to comment at Thursday’s meeting). Based on that, they agreed to call for a vote rather than to delay a vote to a later meeting (the board meets again on April 24), and the motion then passed unanimously. 

Aside from the park-hours discussion, there were a handful of other West Seattle mentions during other portions of the meeting agenda:

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College beach volleyball, Rock Walk, anniversary run, theater, music, more for your West Seattle Friday!
April 11, 2025 9:58 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Photo sent by Betty – the art is a gift that appeared in her Little Free Library)

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

STAY ‘N’ PLAY: Arbor Heights event canceled today and next Friday, for spring break.

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

BEACH VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT: Two days of play begin today at 11 am for the University of Washington team’s only home tournament of the year at Alki Beach. Here’s a preview with info on the schedule, home and visiting teams, and more.

FREE TAX HELP: Free help at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW), 11 am-4 pm, but appointments were reported to be all booked up, so check with the branch before visiting.

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

ROCK WALK: Tonight’s the night for Rock Walk, a sip-and-stroll event around The Junction to raise money for West Seattle Summer Fest music, with dozens of participating businesses and beverage providers paired up (see the list here). Online ticket sales are closed but you can still get tickets at the two check-in locations after 5 pm, Jet City Labs (4547 California SW) or John L. Scott (4445 California SW).

HISTORICAL SOCIETY GALA: 6 pm dinner and auction at Salty’s on Alki (1936 Harbor SW) to support the Southwest Seattle Historical Society. Online registration is closed but check with SWSHS if registration will be available at the door.

SONGWRITERS AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: This month’s Songwriters’ Showcase tonight at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), 6-8 pm, all ages, no cover.

ANNIVERSARY RUN: Help West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) kick off its 15th-anniversary celebration with a 6:15 pm New Balance tryout run, followed by treats.

KENYON HALL CABARET: 6:30 pm monthly drag showcase at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW).

SPORTS: One local game – baseball at 7 pm, West Seattle HS vs. Seattle Prep at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex. (2801 SW Thistle)

LIVE AT THE SKYLARK: Doors 7, music 8 – Caudal Peduncle, Margo Adrift, B.E.L.. $10. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

‘ATHENA’ AT ARTSWEST: Second performance, 7:30 pm at ArtsWest Playhouse (4711 California SW), for the new production “Athena,” by Gracie Gardner – get tickets here.

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

MAKE IT LOUD: Skating to live music at Southgate Roller Rink (9646 17th SW), doors at 9 pm, $18 cover, $5 skates, 21+. Tonight’s slate: dj big peach, Dr. Wam & The Tone Zone, Schmutz​.

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: Puget Park weekend work party
April 11, 2025 8:59 am
|    Comments Off on YOU CAN HELP: Puget Park weekend work party
 |   How to help | West Seattle news | West Seattle parks

(File photo – trail in Puget Park)

If your Saturday isn’t all booked up … volunteer slots remain for a work party at Puget Park, 9 am-noon tomorrow (Saturday, April 12). From the invitation:

Excited to host you all at Puget Park for a little park volunteer fun. Appreciate you all coming out. We will be re-constructing a bit of trail and removing some invasive blackberries. All ages OK.

What to Bring
Gloves, water, snack & proper attire (may get muddy). I have gloves if needed and plenty of tools. Also please note there is no bathroom on site.

Where to Meet
19th Ave SW & SW Dawson

If you can go, please register here ASAP!

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TRAFFIC, WEATHER, ROAD WORK, TRANSIT: Pre-spring-break Friday
April 11, 2025 6:00 am
|    Comments Off on TRAFFIC, WEATHER, ROAD WORK, TRANSIT: Pre-spring-break Friday
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:00 AM: Good morning! It’s Friday, April 11, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Your Friday forecast has a slight chance of morning rain, then sunshine this afternoon, mid-50s high. Today’s sunrise/sunset – 6:27 am and 7:54 pm. (Wednesday brings the first 8+ pm sunset!)

TRANSIT TODAY

Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle servicen; spring/summer schedule, with later-in-the-evening sailings two nights a week, starts Saturday (April 12).

Metro buses – Regular schedule.

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

ROAD WORK

-The Admiral Way Bridge’s outside lane on the eastbound/southbound side remains closed.

-The daily SW 100th closure in White Center, 15th to 16th, has been extended through the 18th, according to King County Roads. (Thanks to Gill for the heads-up.)

BUSY AT THE BEACH

–UW beach volleyball hosts a tournament at Alki today and tomorrow. Play starts at 11 am.

SPRING BREAK

–Seattle Public Schools are out on spring break next week.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

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

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

Low Bridge – Looking west:

1st Avenue South Bridge:

Delridge cameras: 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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FRIDAY PREVIEW: Waiting till last minute to decide about Rock Walk?
April 10, 2025 11:11 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Fun stuff to do | How to help | West Seattle news | WS beverages

Friday’s the night that you can sip, stroll, and help the West Seattle Junction Association raise money to raise the bar on West Seattle Summer Fest music. And the weather looks fairly promising for the first-ever Rock Walk, described by WSJA as “a night of different tastes from wineries, breweries, cideries and distilleries – with all proceeds supporting live music at Summer Fest.” If you didn’t already buy tickets, online sales are closed BUT WSJA tells us you can still get in on it – buy your ticket at one of the check-in locations:

Jet City Labs – 4547 California Ave SW
John L. Scott Realty – 4445 California Ave SW

Rock Walk (and last-minute in-person ticketing) starts at 5 pm Friday. (Summer Fest is just three months away, BTW, July 11-13!).

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Alki scenes from first West Seattle Art Walk of spring!
April 10, 2025 5:15 pm
|    Comments Off on Alki scenes from first West Seattle Art Walk of spring!
 |   West Seattle Art Walk | West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

(WSB photos)

5:15 PM: It’s West Seattle Art Walk night in dozens of places around the peninsula, either hosting artist receptions or offering food/drink specials to people out enjoying art! Tonight’s biggest spotlight is shining on Alki Beach (and the sun is too, just as we arrived), where businesses have rejoined the Art Walk lineup for an incentive to invite people to the beach. Tonight five venues are participating, coordinated by the Alki Community Council, and they’re showing work by student artists from Alki Elementary. Above is from our first stop, Blue Moon Burgers; also participating at the beach tonight, West Seattle Arcade, Gary’s Place, Alki Hair Design, and the Log House Museum – our second stop:

You can see the list and map of tonight’s venues all over West Seattle here, and browse info about tonight’s artists and receptions – most of which are continuing until at least 8 pm – by going here.

6:10 PM: We stopped at the other Alki venues and discovered an adult artist at Gary’s Place:

Sibling West Seattle Arcade is featuring student art plus Naomi Benson‘s work:

And Alki Hair Design is also featuring the photography of Dené Miles:

Next month, after its late-April opening, Alki Coffee Company plans to join the Alki participants for Art Walk too.

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BIZNOTE: New place to get creative – Potterings opens May 1
April 10, 2025 3:15 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

After leading classes elsewhere to help more people discover the joy of making pottery, West Seattle artist/entrepreneur Lora Radford is opening a studio, offering memberships and workshops/classes. Potterings will be at ActivSpace (3400 Harbor Avenue SW, #132), and Lora describes it as “a new creative space for beginners,” elaborating in the grand-opening announcement:

Potterings is the perfect place for you if you’ve ever wanted to try pottery but didn’t know where to start! Whether you’ve never touched clay or are looking for a fun, hands-on experience, our studio is designed to be welcoming, stress-free, and full of creative possibilities. We officially open on May 1, 2025, and we’re celebrating with a Grand Opening on May 2 & 3 — featuring free mini try-it workshops, chances to win a free workshop, add your creative touch to the Potterings ceramic sign, and free bubble glazing (you’ve got to try it to believe it!)

Friday, May 2, 6-8 pm – Open House with snacks and refreshments. Chance to win a free workshop! Learn about the Potterings membership.

Saturday, May 3, 12-5 pm – Free mini workshops including trinket dish, coat hook, plant holder, bubble glazing, chance to win a free workshop. Learn about the Potterings membership.

Both days, you’ll have a chance to add your creative touch to the community-created Potterings sign that will be displayed in the studio!

You can also find out about memberships by going here, and see the open studio and workshop/class schedule via the Potterings calendar.

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One month until West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day 2025, as registration continues
April 10, 2025 1:30 pm
|    Comments Off on One month until West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day 2025, as registration continues
 |   Community Garage Sale Day | West Seattle news

After nine days of registration, more than 220 sales are signed up for West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day 2025 – the 20th-anniversary edition of the annual day for what we call “person-to-person recycling,” all over the peninsula. This year’s WSCGSD is on May 10, the second Saturday in May as usual, 9 am-3 pm (you can start earlier and/or end later if you choose to). In addition to all the individual sales signed up, we have school groups, nonprofits, businesses, block sales … and watch for an update tomorrow on multi-seller sites, if you’re looking for someplace to sell YOUR stuff. Registration will continue for two more weeks, through April 24; if you are ready to register your sale, draft your up-to-25-words listing and go here to register! (Also as usual, the WSCGSD map will be available online – in interactive and printable-list formats – one week before sale day.)

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(TO BE) SEEN OFF WEST SEATTLE: Cruise season starts Saturday. Here’s what’s different
April 10, 2025 12:19 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Port of Seattle | Seen at sea | West Seattle news

(Norwegian Bliss arriving in April 2024 – photo by Lynn Hall)

The Port of Seattle sent a reminder today that cruise-ship season starts this Saturday (April 12) – here’s the full-season schedule, with the last scheduled cruise-ship call to be on October 19th. The port says it’s expecting 298 sailings with 1.9 million “revenue passengers, which comes out to more than 900,000 unique passengers.” The headline for today’s announcement (which you can read in full here) is that this is the first season with shore power available at all three of Seattle’s cruise-ship berths. (Update: We followed up to ask how many of the visiting ships are expected to use it. Port spokesperson Chris Guizlo told us 71 percent of the calls are shore-power-capable.) The berth closest to West Seattle is Pier 66 downtown, and that will host mostly Norwegian Cruise Line ships this season, including the one that starts the season on Saturday, Norwegian Bliss (also the first ship last year, as shown above). Among them will be a Seattle first-timer – the port notes, “This June, Cunard Line’s Queen Elizabeth will spend its first home port season in Seattle. The vessel will offer eleven sailings this season, with 7- to 11-day itineraries from June to September.”

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Holy Week/Easter services? Send your list for our list
April 10, 2025 11:18 am
|    Comments Off on Holy Week/Easter services? Send your list for our list
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news | West Seattle religion

With Easter just 10 days away, local churches are sending info for our seasonal list of services – including Holy Week – and other special events. If yours hasn’t, there’s still time; send the dates/times/brief descriptions to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you! (Here’s what we have so far. Several plan egg hunts, which we’ll be cross-referencing in a separate list before this weekend.)

P.S. Passover starts this weekend and we’ll list any community events we get word of, too.

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West Seattle Art Walk, Racoma at Easy Street, Words/Writers/SW Stories, park-hours hearing, ‘Athena’ opens, more for your Thursday
April 10, 2025 9:58 am
|    Comments Off on West Seattle Art Walk, Racoma at Easy Street, Words/Writers/SW Stories, park-hours hearing, ‘Athena’ opens, more for your Thursday
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

Big day and night around the peninsula! First, it’s West Seattle Art Walk night – here again is the venue list for both art exhibits and food/drink specials:

Our preview is here – don’t miss the Alki student-art displays – and this month’s guide to receptions and featured artists is here. Most events are 5-8 pm; scroll through this month’s guide for specifics. (WSB is an Art Walk sponsor.)

Now, here’s what else is happening, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

ONLINE AUCTION’S LAST DAY: In advance of Friday night’s Southwest Seattle Historical Society spring gala, the online auction concludes today and is open to all for bidding – go here!

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

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

SPORTS: – One local high-school game today – West Seattle HS fastpitch softball vs. Lincoln at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle) at 4 pm.

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

WINE TASTING WITH CLARK: This is also an every-Thursday event at HPCS, 5-7:30 pm – info here.

HIGHLAND PARK RUN CLUB: HPCS is also starting point tonight for running 3 miles, or walking a shorter path, in the neighborhood near HPCS with the Run Club, leaving from the store at 6:30 pm – info here.

VISCON CELLARS: This West Seattle winery’s friendly tasting room/wine bar is open Thursdays, 5-9 pm (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor). Stop in for wine by the glass or bottle! And tonight – enjoy this quarter’s artist, as part of the West Seattle Art Walk.

WORDS, WRITERS, SOUTHWEST STORIES: 6 pm online, the Southwest Seattle Historical Society‘s monthly speaker series focuses on the history of photography this time – info, including how to get the link, is in our calendar listing.

WESTIES RUN CLUB: This group’s 6 pm weekly Thursday run now departs from The Good Society in Admiral (California/Lander).

ALL-AGES OPEN MIC: Signups for young musicians is at 5, music at 6, during this monthly event at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW)

WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Another way to get out on your feet tonight – meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fauntleroy for tonight’s group walk – details in our calendar listing.

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

ALKI BEACH HOURS: As we’ve been reporting, Seattle Parks is looking at hours changes for Alki Beach Park, Don Armeni Boat Ramp, and Hamilton Viewpoint. Tonight is the Parks Board public hearing, 6:30 pm meeting – the agenda includes info on how to participate, either online or in-person (downtown)

Update: Canceled LIVE AT EASY STREET RECORDS: Racoma‘s album-release show is at 7 pm at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW)! Free, all ages.

TRIVIA: 7 pm at Burger Planet, hosted by Good Old-Fashioned Local Trivia (9614 14th SW).

DJ NIGHT: The weekend starts early at Revelry Room (4547 California SW), with DJ Supreme La Rock, starting at 7 pm.

‘ATHENA’ AT ARTSWEST: Opening-night performance, 7:30 pm at ArtsWest Playhouse (4711 California SW), for the new production “Athena,” by Gracie Gardner – get tickets here.

Are you planning an event that should be on our calendar and in our daily preview lists? Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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Remembering Richard ‘Rick’ Cocker, 1952-2025
April 10, 2025 9:00 am
|      5 COMMENTS
 |   Obituaries | West Seattle news

Family and friends are remembering Rick Cocker, and sharing this with his community:

Richard “Rick” LeRoy Cocker, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and respected public-relations professional, passed away peacefully at home in West Seattle on April 3, 2025, at the age of 72.

Rick was born in Elgin, Illinois, to Myron and Marge Cocker, both of whom preceded him in death. He was raised in the Pacific Northwest and graduated from the University of Washington.

Rick’s career reflected both his sharp intellect and his steady, thoughtful nature. In high school, he spent summers in North Bend working on a forest fire crew for the Department of Natural Resources. During college, he worked as a copy aide at the Seattle Post-Intelligencer. After graduation, he took a reporting job at the Bellingham Herald. In 1977, Rick and his wife Pam embarked on one of their greatest adventures — moving to Washington, D.C., where Rick briefly worked for Congressman Lloyd Meeds and later served as Press Secretary to Senator Henry “Scoop” Jackson.

Following Senator Jackson’s passing, Rick and Pam returned to Seattle, where he led communications for the Port of Seattle. He later founded his own public-relations firm, The Cocker Company, which became Cocker Fennessy when he partnered with Anne Fennessy. Over the years, Rick took pride in representing a wide range of clients and industries — from aviation and maritime to education, Native American tribes, and all levels of government. He believed deeply in the power of clear, ethical communication and in doing work that made a difference.

Rick was also a strong advocate for supporting women in the workplace, a value rooted in admiration for his mother, Marge Cocker — one of the first female pilots in the Pacific Northwest and a former editor of Pacific Northwest Magazine at the Seattle Post-Intelligencer. Her trailblazing example shaped Rick’s deep respect for women’s leadership and voices throughout his life and career.

Rick married the love of his life, Pamela (Pam) Palmer, on June 23, 1973. They were married for over 50 years and built a beautiful life together. Rick is survived by Pam; their daughters, Sarah (Adam) Sherman and Claire (Matthew) O’Connell; and seven beloved grandchildren: Jane Sherman, Mae Sherman, Theodore Sherman, Harrison O’Connell, Eleanor O’Connell, Ford O’Connell, and Ruth O’Connell.

He is also survived by siblings Scott Compton, Robin Ihli, and Debbie Ahlers, and was preceded in death by his brother, Gary Cocker.

In retirement, Rick found joy in gardening, woodworking, photography, and daily walks on his treadmill — he took his Fitbit step count seriously. More than anything, he cherished time with Pam, his children, and his grandchildren. Rick was known for his kindness, calm presence, and quiet devotion. He lived by the words: “Always take the high road — it’s far less traveled.”

The family will celebrate Rick’s life privately.

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

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER, ROAD WORK: Thursday info
April 10, 2025 6:03 am
|    Comments Off on TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER, ROAD WORK: Thursday info
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:03 AM: Good morning! It’s Thursday, April 10, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Your Thursday forecast is for clouds this morning, showers and breeziness this afternoon, high around 65. Today’s sunrise/sunset – 6:29 am and 7:52 pm. (Next Wednesday brings the first 8+ pm sunset!)

TRANSIT TODAY

Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle servicen; spring/summer schedule, with later-in-the-evening sailings two nights a week, starts Saturday (April 12).

Metro buses – Regular schedule.

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

ROAD WORK

-The Admiral Way Bridge’s outside lane on the east/southbound side remains closed.

-The daily SW 100th closure in White Center, 15th to 16th, has been extended through the 18th, according to King County Roads. (Thanks to Gill for the heads-up.)

NEXT WEEK

–Seattle Public Schools are out on spring break next week.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

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

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

Low Bridge – Looking west:

1st Avenue South Bridge:

Delridge cameras: 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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Saturday’s egg-hunt plan, plus other Fauntleroy Community Association toplines
April 9, 2025 8:22 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Fauntleroy | Neighborhoods | West Seattle news

By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor

The next big Fauntleroy Community Association-organized event, this year’s Egg Hunt, is just three days away. It was one of the major topics at last night’s FCA board meeting, led by FCA president Frank Immel. FCA’s annual membership meeting was just three weeks ago; its board meets most months on the second Tuesday, but community members are always welcome at those meetings too.

EGG HUNT: Candace Blue coordinates it for FCA andprovided an update. It’s at 1 pm this Saturday (April 12) at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse (9131 California SW). She said there were so many returned and donated plastic eggs that they have 600 to hide this year, up dramatically from the 359 last year; if you’re participating, look for the bins to use to recycle your eggs afterward. The littlest kids will get a head start right at 1, before the older kids get their turn; last year, Candace said, the hunt began with 60 kids. Another number she’s happy about – a dozen-plus volunteers have signed up to help hide eggs before the hunt. The eggs will be filled with non-candy treats, and there will be 10 “special prizes” (only one per family, please). If you’re going, look for wayfinding signs that will point you to where it’s happening on the Fauntleroy Schoolhouse grounds.

Other major topics last night:

Read More

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WEST SEATTLE SCHOOLS: Principal sends families note saying ‘ICE vehicle was seen’ in district-owned lot nearby; Seattle Police say the vehicle was theirs; principal sends follow-up note saying ‘was not aware SPD was using unmarked patrol units’
April 9, 2025 6:03 pm
|      67 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

ORIGINAL REPORT, 6:03 PM WEDNESDAY: Earlier today, a parent asked us about a secondhand report of an ICE sighting at or near Denny International Middle School today. We were unable to confirm it, and didn’t hear any other reports, but families have since received this note from Denny principal Mary Ingraham:

It was brought to our attention that a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) vehicle was seen in the Southwest Athletic Center parking lot today.

The recent announcement regarding the removal of protected areas from immigration enforcement and the possibility of ICE entering schools to deport students is deeply troubling to our district and community.

Our school and the SPS Safety and Security team responded immediately and effectively, and our school remains entirely safe. We also followed district procedures regarding immigration. Because our 8th grade students were outdoors on the field during lunch, we brought them inside early.

Please know at no point were our students or staff at any risk. We acted proactively to ensure safety. It is confirmed that the vehicle has left the area.

I spoke directly with 8th grade students because we believe in being transparent in our leadership and with our students. I explained to them that their safety is our priority, and we acted out of an abundance of caution.

As a reminder, Seattle Public Schools (SPS) remains steadfast in our commitment to providing safe, welcoming, and inclusive learning environments for every student, regardless of race, religion, national origin, immigration status, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

We are deeply committed to the well-being of every student, family, and person in our care. Thank you for trusting us to look after your children each day.

Warmly,

Principal Mary Ingraham
Denny International Middle School

The Southwest Athletic Complex, owned by SPS, is across SW Thistle from the campus shared by Denny IMS and Chief Sealth IHS. District policy “limiting immigration enforcement” can be read here and here. Meantime, SPS has two more days of classes before schools close for spring-break week.

ADDED 2:07 PM THURSDAY: One of the agencies to which we’d sent followup inquiries, Seattle Police, responded by sending a link to this new post on their SPD Blotter website:

The Seattle Police Department would like to clear the air regarding recent rumors and false media reports that have understandably fueled community concerns about alleged U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity near a school on Wednesday, April 9.

A school administrator emailed parents and community members stating an ICE vehicle had been seen near the school. This was false. The vehicle was from the Seattle Police Department as part of a commitment to prevent crime and protect students near schools where violence has become a concern.

Parents, students, and teachers can expect to see marked and unmarked police vehicles near these schools. As staffing allows, officers will be in these areas before and after school as well as around lunchtime. Officers may be wearing either the standard navy blue or a grey uniform. It is not our goal to alarm anyone with our presence as this is an effort to intervene in any issues before they escalate.

The Seattle Police Department is committed to a safe and supportive community for all people and supports the rights of undocumented people, who are often victimized and exploited. These members of our community may not feel safe coming forward when they are victims of crime. It remains the intent and commitment of the Seattle Police Department to foster trust and cooperation with all who live, work, and visit Seattle and to do all within our ability to preserve the safety and sanctity of our community.

We follow State law RCW 10.93.160 and Seattle Municipal Code 4.18.015:

The Seattle Police Department will not enforce civil federal immigration laws. The Seattle Police Department does not ask about an individual’s immigration status unless directly connected to a criminal investigation (eg. human trafficking).

You are a part of the Community:
The City is committed to helping its employees and communities, including immigrant communities, understand laws to avoid confusion and uncertainty.

You have rights:
The Seattle Office for Civil Rights (SOCR) enforces laws against illegal discrimination in housing, employment, public accommodations, and contracting.

SOCR will continue providing outreach and trainings, including know your rights workshops to educate individuals and renters, and educate businesses and housing providers about their obligations under the law. This includes information about immigration and citizenship status as a protected class.

We will protect you:
The Seattle Police Department Bias Crime Unit will continue investigating hate crimes, act as a resource to patrol and other follow-up units, engage in officer training, and maintain hate crime and incident data.

New SPD Chief Shon Barnes issued this statement in February about department policy regarding immigration-related matters.

ADDED 4:28 PM: In response to our followup inquiries with them, SPS sent us this note that Principal Ingraham sent today to the Denny community:

This message is being sent as a follow up to my letter sent about a report that a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) vehicle was spotted near our campus yesterday.

It has been confirmed it was Seattle Police Department (SPD) officers on patrol in the vehicle.

Given the sensitive time we are in, I sincerely apologize for the distress and confusion caused by sharing incorrect information.

These patrols are at the request of Seattle Public Schools (SPS), and SPD has made a commitment to the district to conduct additional patrols around some of our campuses before and after school and during lunch periods.

These patrols are not to monitor students, but to provide extra visibility into the surrounding neighborhoods.

The police are using all available resources – including unmarked vehicles with government plates – for these directed patrols. The district was not aware SPD was using unmarked patrol units until this incident.

SPD will continue to direct these patrols to schools focusing primarily on middle and high schools based on incidents and need.

SPS remains steadfast in its commitment to providing safe, welcoming, and inclusive learning environments for every student. Our school will continue to follow district protocols and procedures regarding the safety and security of our students and staff.

Please be assured I am taking steps to ensure accurate communication is shared in the future. I want to express my deep appreciation for our community—your care, support, and grace means a lot.

Sincerely,

Principal Mary Ingraham
Denny International Middle School

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HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! West Seattle Runner turns 15 – you’re invited to special demo runs and more
April 9, 2025 4:28 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

(WSB photo, Tim and Lori McConnell, just before store opened in April 2010)

Independent, locally owned West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor), the peninsula’s only runner-focused store, is about to mark a milestone – 15 years in business! The store opened (in its original location) on April 10, 2010. They’re inviting you to special events starting this Friday – here’s the lineup, from WSR proprietors Lori and Tim McConnell, who explain, “This is a thank you for doing the last 15 years with West Seattle Runner. We are so grateful to you for your support”:

Friday 11th 6:15 pm:
–New Balance Demo Group Run. You can try out a pair of New Balance to run in at no charge. We will serve cupcakes afterwards=.

Saturday, April 12th
–Mizuno and Superfeet Group Run at 8 am. You can try out Mizuno and Superfeet on your run. We will follow up the run with donuts and chocolate milk.
– Mark Bouma, owner of Lake Washington Physical Therapy-West Seattle, will be onsite doing 1:1 assessments from 8:40 to 10:30 am.
-We will have Hawthorne Massage doing chair massage 10 am-12 noon.

Sunday the 13th
-We have a Brooks Demo Group Run at 10 am with a warm-up with Seattle Sports & Performance. We will serve beverages afterward.
–Hawthorne chair massage that day 11 am-1 pm.

Also: We will have raffle prizes drawing at the end of the weekend … Tim’s sister, Kelly, will be here for you to demo Bemer all weekend, pulsed electromagnetic field, which always restores my energy and cuts down on injury healing time, thankfully!

Additional events for April will include Biojunction PT injury assessments on the 14th, 4:30-6 pm; a Seattle Sports & Performance workout at the shop at 6:15 pm on the 24th; the April “birthday run” will be Tuesday, April 29, 6:15 pm, with a trip to Good Society afterward (walkers also welcome); and the month concludes with Sound PT visiting 6-7 pm April 30 for individual injury assessments. Haven’t been to West Seattle Runner? The shop is across from the west side of Hiawatha, 2743 California SW.

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