West Seattle, Washington
26 Saturday
(August 2024 photo by Stephanie Zimmerman)
That’s local marathon swimmer Chelsea Lee, in a photo we published last August, after she swam from Tacoma to West Seattle’s Lincoln Park. She’s one of two Alki open-water swimmers that Amanda Winans from the Northwest Open Water Swimming Association tells us is about to try major marathon swims, as the peak season for them begins:
Justin Davis are going to be attempting the Amy Hiland Swim (~10.4 mi), from Bremerton to the Alki Lighthouse, this Sunday (July 27), starting at 9 am, with an expected finish at around 12:45-1:30 pm. This is his first official marathon swim. You can track his swim here.
Chelsea Lee, who has completed the Amy Hiland Swim and Bert Thomas Swim (Tacoma to Lincoln Park), is attempting to swim across the Strait of Juan de Fuca (~10.4 mi), on August 1 or 2, depending on the weather. She’ll start at Beechey Head, BC [map], and swim to Tongue Point, WA. As it says on our site, this has been called one of the two “Toughest Swims in the World,” according to “Wind, Waves, and Sunburn, A Brief History of Marathon Swimming.” Currents and weather conditions, as well as very cold water, make this a difficult swim. Her tracker link will be the same as Justin’s.
With NOWSA’s help, we expect to have followups on how these swims go.
If you’re interested in whale-watching, Kersti Muul just told us that transient orcas are in the area, northbound off Blake Island. Let us know if you see them!
(Lined chiton, photographed at low-low tide by Rosalie Miller)
Happy weekend! Here’s our Saturday list – mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
TRAFFIC/TRANSPORTATION NOTES: If you missed this roundup on Friday, click through for info on Avalon/Yancy and Olson/2nd road work, plus Harbor Avenue parking; also, West Seattle Water Taxi runs extra late tonight because of the Seafair Torchlight Parade (on Alaskan Way, 7:30 pm start after 6 pm Torchlight Run) and Morgan Wallen concert at Lumen Field.
OUTRIGGER CANOE RACING: The annual “Da Grind” racing events are set for today at Alki Beach, 7 am-3:30 pm.
GARAGE/YARD SALES: See the newest listings in the WSB Community Forums.
SATURDAY GROUP RUN: West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) resumes Saturday 8 am free group runs today.
HEAVILY MEDITATED: Free 9 am outdoor meditation at Schmitz Preserve Park (5551 SW Admiral Way) – register here.
INTRODUCTORY WALK: First of two sequential weekly walking events – meeting at the same spot, 47th/Fauntleroy, first at 9:30 am for a flat-terrain 1-mile walk.
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: That’s followed immediately by this walk in which you can participate even if you didn’t take the introductory stroll. Meet at 47th/Fauntleroy.
DELRIDGE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm, Saturdays through October, at Hope Academy in South Delridge (9421 18th SW). Fresh produce, cooked-on-site food, body-care products, more!
FISHER SCONE WAGON: Fair-style scones, 10 am-4 pm at West Seattle Thriftway (California/Fauntleroy; WSB sponsor) as part of the Local Taste/Tent Sale (see below) festivities.
KNIFE-SHARPENING POPUP: Kneighborhood Knives is back at Hotwire Coffee (4410 California SW), 10 am-5 pm. $12/knife.
COURTYARD YOGA: 10 am at WEND Jewelry (3278 California SW).
MASTER GARDENERS: Got a garden-related question? They’re ready to answer! Saturdays this summer, they’re at The Home Depot (7345 Delridge Way SW), 10 am-2 pm.
MORNING MUSIC AT C&P COFFEE: Not happening this week.
FREE WRITING GROUP: 10:30 am – free weekly in-person group for writers of all levels. For location info, go here.’
WHITE CENTER LIBRARY GUILD SUMMER SALE: Support library programs by shopping this rummage/book sale (indoors, a change from the original plan), 11 am-4 pm. (1409 SW 107th)
WEST SEATTLE’S ONLY SPRAYPARK: Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale) continues daily operations today, 11 am-8 pm.
FAMILY READING TIME: At Paper Boat Booksellers, 11 am family reading time. (4522 California SW)
WEST SEATTLE THRIFTWAY LOCAL TASTE & TENT SALE: Second of three days to shop the tent sale and taste the wares offered by dozens of vendors, noon-5 pm. (California/Fauntleroy)
WADING POOLS: City-run wading pools scheduled to be open in West Seattle today are Lincoln Park (12 pm-7 pm) and Hiawatha (12 pm-5:30 pm).
COLMAN POOL: 12-7 pm swim sessions at Lincoln Park‘s heated saltwater pool (on the shore, 8011 Fauntleroy Way SW).
LOG HOUSE MUSEUM OPEN: Explore the present and past at the home of West Seattle history, open for your visit, noon-2 pm (closing two hours earlier than usual today) – see the new exhibit about Seattle Teriyaki! (61st/Stevens)
VIETNAMESE CULTURAL CENTER: The center is open to visitors noon-3 pm, as explained here, and today brings the Summer Festival celebrating the center’s 28th year. (2236 SW Orchard)
LOW-LOW TIDE: Last day for this round; out to -2.0 feet at 12:34 pm.
SONG CIRCLE: Monthly song circle, 1-3 pm, first-timers welcome. See our calendar listing for details.
VISCON CELLARS TASTING ROOM/WINE BAR: Tasting room open – wine by the glass or bottle – 1-6 pm at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor).
NORTHWEST WINE ACADEMY TASTING ROOM, WINE BAR, STORE: On the north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus:
The Northwest Wine Academy Tasting Room, Wine Bar, and Retail Store are open Thursday-Saturday from 1-6 pm. Come taste and purchase our student-produced wine! The Northwest Wine Academy features a large tasting room and retail store. While tasting one of our current releases, you can request a tour of our barrel room and bottling area. Come support our student winemakers and join us for a student tasting.
HAROLD’S FITNESS CELEBRATION: As noted here Friday, longtime proprietor Harold Calkins has retired and the gym is closing. Potluck celebration at 2 pm today to celebrate the decades of community at Harold’s Fitness. (5908 California SW)
FREE MASSAGE: Walk into Nepenthe (9447 35th SW) 3-5 pm for short, specific free massage.
ALSO AT NEPENTHE: Summer mini-market starting at 3 pm!
OUTDOOR MUSIC & WORSHIP FESTIVAL: “Cross the Street” festival at Grace Church (10323 28th SW), 3-8 pm, food trucks 4:30-6:30 pm.
WINE IN THE WOODS: 4-6 pm fundraiser for DNDA, with a few tickets left as of this morning. Location will be sent to guests.
DUB SEA FISH STICKS: 6:05 pm home game as “the team that almost was,” the Seal Slingers, vs. the Everett Merchants at Steve Cox Memorial Park‘s Mel Olson Stadium. (1321 SW 102nd, White Center). Get tickets here.
LISTENING PARTY: Easy Street Records (4559 California SW) listening party for re-release of Talking Heads‘ “More Songs About Buildings and Food,” 5 pm, free, giveaways.
CONCERT AT ALKI ARTS: 6 pm, Intimate Concert Series: Kelly Hyde & Joey Valentine, performing live in the gallery. (6030 California SW)
LIVE AT THE SKYLARK:8 pm, catch Skylark Presents Kenyon Hall Cabaret drag show, all ages. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
REVELRY ROOM DJ: Saturday spinning starts at 9 pm – tonight it’s DJ Wizdumb at Revelry Room. (4547 California SW).
SATURDAY NIGHT SK8 PARTY: 9 pm-midnight with rotating DJ Josh and DJ NightMere, 21+, at Southgate Roller Rink (9646 17th SW, White Center).
KARAOKE AT TALARICO’S: For Saturday night singers, there’s 10 pm karaoke at Talarico’s Pizzeria. (4718 California SW)
Got a West Seattle event coming up? If community members are welcome, your event is welcome on our calendar! Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
Police are at Zeeks Pizza in Morgan Junction right now, investigating a reported burglary. Officers told dispatch they’ve confirmed broken glass in a back window/door of the restaurant as the apparent site of entry. No other details so far. ADDED: If you have information for police, the incident # is 25-211438.
6:12 PM: Nino Cantu SW Athletic Complex is hosting a huge free concert right now – All-City Band Jam‘s return to West Seattle, where ACB director Dr. Marcus Pimpleton founded it, a showcase for marching/brass bands on the eve of the Seafair Torchlight Parade. It could run until 9 pm.
8:50 PM: Just ended. We’ll add video from all 9 groups when back at HQ.
ADDED: Here’s one of the two sports-team-support bands that performed, Sound Wave (official band of Seattle Sounders FC):
And from the Seahawks, here’s Blue Thunder (which led the crowd in the call-and-response “Sea!” “Hawks!” before they were done):
Tons of drums all night long – including the Seismic Sound drumline:
Two brass bands were on the bill – the Blowout Heavies opened the night:
Chaotic Noise Marching Corps were a crowd favorite – with their description proclaiming them a “renegade marching band” and noting that part of their performance is “havoc”; even their outfits were a bit, well, chaotic:
And of course, marching bands … Kennedy Catholic, seen last weekend in the West Seattle Grand Parade:
Rainbow City, which brought a mashup of four ensembles:
Sumner, a huge band with middle-schoolers as well as high-schoolers:
And of course the hosting All-City Band, grand-prize winners in last weekend’s West Seattle Grand Parade and preparing for tomorrow night’s parade downtown. Their director Dr. Pimpleton confessed to the crowd that he secretly dislikes parades and enjoys Band Jam as a chance to enjoy marching bands without the unnecessary parade trappings! Here’s their full set:
(Compare to our video of the 2009 ACB performing at the very first Band Jam!) The ACB is practicing at NCSWAC this summer, as well as hosting Band Jam there, because Memorial Stadium downtown is off-limits while being overhauled; Dr. Pimpleton said he’s pretty sure that means Band Jam will be in West Seattle next summer too.
Whenever we get advance word of road work and other things likely to affect traffic, we include them in our morning traffic roundups (published around 6 am weekdays). But the following three bits of information are all new since this morning’s roundup:
THE AVALON/YANCY ‘CLOSURE’: A reader told us about the signboard saying Avalon/Yancy [map] would be closed all day Saturday. We asked SDOT about it; they said it wasn’t their project, so they pointed us to AA Asphalting. A spokesperson there clarified that this is not a full road closure – there will be officers and/or flaggers there to get drivers/riders/walkers/etc. around the work that will be done. SDOT meantime verified that this work will affect the east (Yancy) side of the intersection.
REPAVING ON OLSON: While we were communicating with SDOT, they dug up word of an all-weekend repaving project on Olson Place SW, near Arrowhead Gardens:
Olson Pl SW between 1st Ave S and 2nd Ave SW [map]
Saturday July 26th and Sunday July 27th, 2025
8 AM – 5 PM
*Weather permitting• SDOT will remove and repave the top 2 inches of the street at the location listed above.
o The project will connect to previous SDOT paving projects on 1st Ave S and Myers Way S.
o SDOT constructed new curb ramps at Myers Way S and 2nd Ave SW in support of these paving projects.• Sidewalk access will not be impacted.
• Traffic Impacts:
o The travel lanes on Olson Pl SW will be reduced and shifted during work hours.
o Access between 2nd Ave SW and Olson Pl SW will be closed during work hours.
▪ SDOT will have a flagger at the intersection and will allow access to the extent possible, but only intermittent access will be allowed.
▪ Access between 2nd Ave SW and Myers Way S will not be affected.
o All streets will be fully open during non-work hours.
Here’s the official notice.
HARBOR AVENUE’S TORCHLIGHT PARADE CONNECTION: Thanks to Kathy for sending word that the annual no-parking signs are up along a stretch of Harbor Avenue in advance of Seafair Torchlight Parade entries heading to and from a parking area at the port. We haven’t been by to see the signage yet but the parade is tomorrow night on the newly overhauled downtown waterfront, and in some years past there’s been a convoy across the West Seattle low bridge related to this.
Not to say the proprietor of Harold’s Fitness is going to ignore his advice and quit working out – but Harold Calkins is closing the West Seattle business through which he’s continued to coach others well into his 80s. Longtime member Petra just sent word that the gym at 5908 California SW will be the scene of a community celebration tomorrow (Saturday, July 26) at 2 pm. Harold “has retired and the gym will be shutting down this weekend,” she explains. The party is open to “anyone who is part of that community to come pay respects to Harold Caulkins, visit old friends, and say goodbye to this West Seattle institution.” It’s a potluck, so if you’re going, bring something to share. Harold has been in the fitness business for 65 years!
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
Lucky Sushi is rolling toward North Delridge.
We discovered this thanks to a reader who texted about seeing that window sign somewhere on the east side of a mile-plus stretch. We’ve always loved a good mystery, so we set out to narrow it down. Within 24 hours we were talking by phone with proprietor Mikko Yamaguchi about the plan for the south space at 5216 Delridge Way SW [map].
He already runs Lucky Sushi at 5020 Rainier Avenue S., opened a half-year ago, and says he’s had many orders from West Seattle, so he says the expansion seems natural, observing that the sushi market here doesn’t seem maxed out. This is a relatively small space in a new live/work building, so he’ll offer takeout and delivery (no dine-in), focused on sushi and boba tea.
Yamaguchi expects to keep prices reasonable with relatively low operating costs (for example, he’ll be most of the labor), plus the pickup option will save you what he observes are ever-rising delivery fees. But, capitalizing on another recent trend, he plans to be open late, looking to start with hours noon to 11 pm, seven days a week. (He says all his previous restaurants have been open late, and that’s contributed to their success.)
This is sushi with another twist. He says the inspiration for the name “Lucky Sushi” comes from his background setting up sushi bars in small casinos/card rooms. He plans to have a wheel for customers to spin after orders of a certain level, and they’ll have a chance to “win” something – a discount on their current or future order, for example.
Also in keeping with the theme, the classic paw-up “lucky cat” will be part of the decor (see the photo above), which he says will overall be the “cutest” sushi shop you’ve ever seen.
Back to the food – he promises vegetarian and vegan options, which he says are popular at the Rainier Avenue location. But the most popular menu item at all his previous restaurants has been the “Chef’s Roll,” which he says includes shrimp tempura, crab, seared salmon, spicy mayo, green onion, and more.
Now, the big question – how soon will Lucky Sushi open? As with all new businesses, that depends in large part on inspections and permits. Yamaguchi is hoping for mid-September.
Perhaps the timeline will work out; he says he’s long been “lucky in life.”
SIDE NOTE: The space next door to the future Lucky Sushi is still available for lease; contact broker Susi Musi if you’re in the market (she’s also representing office and café spaces in the new Keystone development in South Delridge).
(Blue Angels and West Seattle, photographed from Queen Anne last year by Monica Zaborac)
Yes, it’s that time of year, already. The Blue Angels are based at nearby Boeing Field while in Seattle for the Seafair Air Show, so we usually publish info about their schedule for those who want to be forewarned, whatever the reason. Usually one jet arrives early for media and dignitary ride-alongs, but the main group arrival has been announced by Seafair as around 1:30-2 pm on Wednesday (July 30). Their practice shows will be Thursday and Friday (July 31-August 1), and their official shows as part of Seafair’s big weekend will be Saturday and Sunday, August 2-3. This year they’ll be the airshow finale both days so they’re not scheduled to fly until around 3:35 pm. The Museum of Flight is having its annual Jet Blast Bash both days (admission is charged unless you’re a member) and that will include a view of the runway as they take off, but they’re not parking the jets out in the open south of the museum any more – they’ll be elsewhere at Boeing Field, where Seafair is selling tickets to their famous “walkdown” ceremonies Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
(Thursday’s Alki sunset, photo by Mike Burns)
Here’s what’s happening, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: The center is open for plant-shopping Thursdays-Saturdays 10 am-3 pm, north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus.
KNIFE-SHARPENING POPUP: Kneighborhood Knives is back at Hotwire Coffee (4410 California SW), 10 am-5 pm. Tomorrow too! $12/knife.
HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK: The spraypark is open every day 11 am-8 pm. Free. (1100 SW Cloverdale)
WHITE CENTER LIBRARY GUILD SIDEWALK SALE: Support library programs by shopping this rummage/book sale 11 am-4 pm. Tomorrow too! (1409 SW 107th)
LOW-LOW TIDE: -2.6 feet at 11:52 am.
WEST SEATTLE THRIFTWAY LOCAL TASTE & TENT SALE: First of three days to come shop the tent sale and taste the wares offered by dozens of vendors, noon-5 pm. (California/Fauntleroy)
WADING POOLS: Lincoln Park (noon-7 pm), Delridge, and Hiawatha (both noon-5:30 pm) will be open today, because the city expects some sunshine and warmer temps this afternoon.
COLMAN POOL: The heated salt-water pool is open to the public today, noon-7 pm.
SEATTLE TERIYAKI HISTORY & MORE: See this new exhibit at the Log House Museum (61st/Stevens) while the museum is open noon-4 pm today.
QI GONG AT VIVA ARTS: Fridays at 12:15 pm – info in our calendar listing. (4421 Fauntleroy Way SW)
ALL-CITY BAND JAM: Marching-band performances at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle), 6 pm, showcase in preparation for the Seafair Torchlight Parade (among other things). Free. Update from All-City Band:
The lineup will feature performances by:
– Seattle All-City Band
– Seattle Sounders Sound Wave
– Seahawks Blue Thunder Drumline
– Kennedy Catholic High School Marching Band
– Sumner High School Spartan Marching Band,
– Chaotic Noise Marching Corps
– Rainbow City
– Seismic Sound Drumline
– The Blowout HeaviesCome hungry as we will have several food trucks selling concessions beginning when doors open at 5.
DUBSEA FISH STICKS: 6:35 pm home game vs. the Gumberoos is sold out!
AT THE SKYLARK: 6:30 pm, All Hype “3D” West Coast Tour w/ Everything’s Fine, Swim Down, The Rat Utopia Experiment at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW). $10/door, all ages.
COFFIN BREAK AT EASY STREET: Live revival release record party for Coffin Break at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW), 7 pm, free, all ages.
FULL LIFE CRISIS: West Seattle band plays Tim’s Tavern (16th/98th, in White Center) at 8 pm.
FREE OUTDOOR MOVIE: 8:30-ish pm at Maarten Park (42nd SW/SW Juneau), “Wall-E” is the free movie, popcorn provided!
REVELRY ROOM DJ: 9 pm, DJ Sessions spins tonight! (4547 California SW)
MAKE IT LOUD: Skating with live music – tonight, sing and skate! Skateraoke with Baby Ketten Karaoke – 9 pm at Southgate Roller Rink (9646 17th SW). 21+. $18 cover/$5 skates.
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!
Earlier this week, Public Health – Seattle & King County announced that paralytic shellfish poison had been detected on Vashon Island shores. Now it’s expanded further north to West Seattle beaches, so the department sent this warning:
Paralytic shellfish poison has been detected at unsafe levels from Alki Beach south to Dash Point State Park, as well as along all of the beaches on the eastern shores of Vashon-Maury Island, including Quartermaster Harbor. As a result, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has closed these areas to recreational shellfish harvesting. People should always check the DOH shellfish safety website before harvesting shellfish.
Paralytic shellfish poison (PSP) has been detected at unsafe levels from the north point of Alki Beach in Seattle south to Dash Point State Park in Federal Way, as well as along all of the beaches on the eastern shores of Vashon-Maury Island, including Quartermaster Harbor.
As a result, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has closed these shores to recreational shellfish harvesting. For beaches in these affected areas that are already closed year-round to shellfish harvesting, this notice serves as an added health warning. This closure is an expansion of the PSP recreational shellfish harvesting restriction announced on July 23, which included Quartermaster Harbor only. People should always check the DOH shellfish safety website before harvesting shellfish.
Working with partners, Public Health – Seattle & King County is posting advisory signs at beaches warning people to not collect shellfish. This announcement applies only to recreational shellfish. Commercial shellfish harvesting sites are monitored and regulated separately. Commercial shellfish harvesters should check the advisory status on DOH’s Commercial Shellfish Map Viewer.
Species of shellfish affected
The closure includes all species of shellfish including clams, geoduck, scallops, mussels, oysters, snails and other invertebrates; the closure does not include crab or shrimp. Crabmeat is not known to contain the PSP toxin, but the guts can contain unsafe levels. To be safe, clean crab thoroughly and discard the guts (“butter”).
What’s the risk?
Anyone who eats PSP-contaminated shellfish is at risk for illness and death. PSP poisoning is caused by eating shellfish containing this potent neurotoxin. A naturally occurring marine organism produces the toxin. The toxin is not destroyed by cooking or freezing.
A person cannot determine if PSP toxin is present by visual inspection of the water or shellfish. For this reason, the term “red tide” is misleading and inaccurate. PSP can only be detected by laboratory testing.
Symptoms of PSP
Symptoms of PSP usually begin 30-60 minutes after eating the contaminated shellfish but may take several hours. Symptoms are generally mild, and begin with numbness or tingling of the face, arms, and legs. This is followed by headache, dizziness, nausea, and loss of muscle coordination. Sometimes a floating sensation occurs. In cases of severe poisoning, muscle paralysis and respiratory failure occur, and in these cases, death may occur in 2 to 25 hours.
If symptoms are mild, call your health care provider or Washington Poison Center (800-222-1222), and Public Health (206-296-4774). If symptoms are severe, call 911 or have someone take you to the emergency room immediately.
Always check before harvesting shellfish
Recreational shellfish harvesting can be closed at any time for multiple reasons, including rising levels of PSP or pollution. Therefore, harvesters are advised to call the DOH Biotoxin Hotline at 800-562-5632 or visit DOH’s shellfish safety website before harvesting shellfish anywhere in Puget Sound.
6:00 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Friday, July 25, 2025.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
Mostly cloudy, high near 70. Today’s sunrise was at 5:38 am; sunset will be at 8:52 pm.
ROAD WORK, TODAY + WEEKEND
-Repaving continues today on California SW between Holly and Frontenac; SDOT tells us this is phase 1, with phase 2 scheduled to start next Thursday.
-Crews are working on curb ramps for all four corners of 60th/Admiral, and that’s closing 60th during work hours as well as affecting bike lanes near work crews.
-The major nighttime work ahead on and around 16th SW in White Center continues – details here.
-Admiral Bridge work continues, with both directions now carried on the south side.
-One weekend note – a reader pointed out the illuminated signboard regarding a closure at Avalon/Yancy tomorrow (Saturday, July 26). We have an inquiry out to SDOT.
TRANSIT TODAY
Metro buses – On regular schedule and routes today.
Washington State Ferries – WSF is back to three-boat service on the Triangle Route, with M/V Kittitas, M/V Cathlamet, and M/V Issaquah. Vessel Watch will show you which boat is where.
Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle service; summer schedule, with later runs on Friday and Saturday nights, and on weeknights with Mariners home games (and certain special events).
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Looking west:
1st Avenue South Bridge:
Delridge cameras: In addition to the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.
MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.
See a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
The Morgan Junction Park expansion site, bought by the city 11 years ago, remains a fenced hole in the ground. And the matter of what will ultimately be built on it still isn’t settled.
The “all-wheels area” that seemed like a promising addition for so long is up in the air, since Seattle Parks now insists there’s not enough funding to include it in the project. Community supporters, who coalesced as MJAWA (Morgan Junction All-Wheels Area), just got word this week that their part of the project didn’t receive a $250,000 King County grant they were hoping would help cover the cost, so they say this means Parks will tell them to raise “$700,000 for a 1,500-sf skateable area.” They’re now looking ahead to conversations with Parks in the coming weeks.
In advance of that, MJAWA and the Morgan Community Association got a somewhat convoluted update last week from two Seattle Parks managers who came to MoCA’s quarterly meeting to provide a status update. MoCA has since sent the city a list of questions to be answered.
First – here’s what they did hear about the status of the site, where a jurisdictional conflict between Parks and SDOT has idled the soil-cleanup process – required because of contaminated soil from the site’s history (including time as a dry cleaner) – for many months. Parks’ Olivia Reed told MoCA that the cleanup should finally be complete “late this fall” – now that SDOT and Parks have reached an agreement about transferring some of the property – and they’re still planning to open the expansion site as a grassy public area after that.
(Schematic for ‘skate dot’ that MJAWA got Grindline to design for Morgan Junction Park site)
Will the final version of the site have an all-wheels area, aka “skate dot”? That would require added community funding, Reed reiterated, though MJAWA already has brought a lot of contributions to the project, from volunteer expertise to a grant. During the MoCA discussion, the project’s funding and price tag reained unclear, with the Parks reps saying the “total budget” is $1.2 million, as well as saying that amount had been “added” to the project this year. But, Parks’ Andy Sheffler insisted, “We have a commitment to get the project done” and he insisted they are “moving forward diligently now.”
That “moving forward” includes taking the plan back to a committee of the city Design Commission – the plan for what the site will look like when Phase 1, remediation and hydroseeding, is complete this fall. MoCA president Deb Barker expressed disappointment that the committee will end up seeing that plan before the community.
This was all largely a continuation of a similarly disappointing discussion with a different Parks official at the previous MoCA meeting in April, at which the $1.2 million budget and skate-dot skepticism were cited, while MJAWA pointed out that the budget seemed to be “missing a million” after previous citations of a $2.2 million budget. The $1.2 million apparently is only expected to cover some pathways and seating on the expansion site. Community fundraising could put the “all-wheels area” into the plan, but otherwise it would be “decoupled” for some possible future phase. Parks is focused on finishing the cleanup and settling the right-of-way issue with SDOT, which won’t be finalized until the City Council approves transferring SW Eddy Street right-of-way to Parks.
After the MoCA meeting, these questions were sent to the Parks reps, taking them up on a suggestion they made during the meeting:Read More
(WSB photo from last year’s Duwamish canoe family launch)
Earlier this week, when we noted that a tribal-canoe landing on Alki was not part of the plan for regional canoe families’ Paddle to Elwha, we also noted that the Duwamish Tribe planned to depart Sunday morning to join the journey. Today, we received an open invitation to share, saying everyone is welcoe to be there for the sendoff from Don Armeni Boat Ramp:
This Sunday, July 27 at 7:30 AM, the Duwamish Canoe Family will launch from Don Armeni Boat Ramp in West Seattle as they begin their journey to Suquamish for the 2025 Intertribal Canoe Journey – Paddle to Elwha.
This powerful tradition honors the ancestral highways of the Coast Salish peoples and brings together Indigenous canoe families from across the region in a celebration of culture, resilience, and community.
All are welcome to come see them off, offer well-wishes, and witness this moving moment of tradition and strength.
Bring your hearts, your voices, and your respect. Let’s lift them up as they begin their journey.
Location: Don Armeni Boat Ramp, Alki
Time: 7:30 AM sharp – Sunday, July 27
Destination: Suquamish, continuing on to the host nation, Lower Elwha Klallam
6:47 PM: California Place Park is a relatively small triangle of land, but “we’re going to make it sound like a stadium,” promised Michael Pearsall before launching into his first song (“Awake and Alive”) as tonight’s Admiral Music in the Parks concert began. Concertgoers of all ages are here enjoying the evening.
Michael “and friends” will be performing until at least 8 pm. The concert is free – presented by the Admiral Neighborhood Association – just bring your own blanket/chair, food/drink, and enjoy.
8:28 PM: The concert just concluded. We’ll add video and more photos later; the third and final AMP concert this year is at Hamilton Viewpoint, 6:30 next Thursday (July 31), with The Flaming Pies presenting a tribute to The Beatles.
ADDED: Songs from the concert! Michael Pearsall began solo:
Then he made way for solo turns by the “Friends” on the bill – including Troy Aylesworth:
And Camille Watson:
And finally he fronted a full band that rocked its way through the rest of the almost-two-hour show:
Scenes from the concert, photographed by Jason Grotelueschen for WSB:
Above, the crowd was estimated at 350 people, according to ANA president Joanie Jacobs (below with husband Dan Jacobs):
As you probably noticed in our video clips, the lawn in front of the performers became an exuberant toddler/preschooler dance floor again this week:
On the less-frenetic side of spectating were people participating in the Seattle Yarn knitting (etc.) circle:
Series sponsors on hand included PCC (which is a WSB sponsor too):
Speaking of food – if you’re coming next week, bring a nonperishable food donation if you can!
Volunteers from A Cleaner Alki handled cleanup as the crowd packed up.
That’s a King County TV clip about “Captain Dan,” whose last day with the King County Water Taxi is tomorrow. Capt. Dan (Krehbiel) had a big moment in the spotlight in November 2023, when he – while at the helm of M/V Doc Maynard – maneuvered the Water Taxi to keep a runaway barge from crashing into the downtown waterfront (WSB coverage here). Most recently he’s been on the Vashon Island run with M/V Sally Fox. But his true claim to fame is as the Water Taxi system’s first captain, 16 years ago; it’s grown in a big way since then, but now he’s sailing off into retirement. Read his full story on the Metro Matters website.
Related to West Seattle’s light-rail plan, here are two notes from the Sound Transit Board meeting that just concluded:
PROPERTY ACQUISITIONS: Board members gave unanimous approval to staff’s plan to pursue acquisition of three parcels, after hearing that these were all special cases and that the bulk of acquisitions will await further decisions on how (or whether) to proceed with the project. One – as noted in our preview – is a Port of Seattle parcel in the 1000 block of SW Klickitat that the board was told is needed for “load testing” that could assist in the staff review of potential cost savings; the other two are residential parcels in the 3200 block of SW Genesee whose owners need to sell and move due to personal circumstances but, with the project pending, can’t find any non-ST buyers. Board members, particularly Seattle City Councilmember Dan Strauss, expressed concerns about what would happen to the residences once vacated; he was told that ST will look into finding “quality tenants.” He was also told a meeting next Monday will take a closer look at ST policies regarding acquired properties.
‘ENTERPRISE INITIATIVE’: The board also got a briefing on the status of this review that’s been in the works a while now, figuring out ways to bring the ST3 plan into line with ST’s financial resources. This has its roots in alarm over the revised $7 billion cost projection for the West Seattle extension, but its determinations will be applied to other projects, ST staff says – saying today that in essence it will eventually bring a “realignment” of the future plan, but in a different way than ST’s done “realignments” before. Here’s the slide deck that was presented; it acknowledges that changes in scope, or even “reconsideration” of some projects, are options, as are “potential revenue enhancements.” Ultimately, they hope to have a new plan by the middle of next year.
2 PM: Thanks to Mike Munson for the photo and tip! Crews are repaving California Avenue SW between SW Holly and SW Frontenac [map], with work scheduled at least through tomorrow, so take note if you’re headed that way. We’re checking with SDOT about the extent of the work and what’s next on the paving schedule for West Seattle.
ADDED THURSDAY EVENING: Here’s what SDOT says: “The California Ave SW project is a mill and overlay from SW Holly St to SW Frontenac St. The project will be completed in two phases. Phase 1 is expected to be finished tomorrow, 7/25. Phase 2 is currently scheduled for 7/31 – 8/1; but the schedule could shift. SDOT constructed pedestrian improvements at the SW Willow St & SW Mills St intersections in advance of the paving project.”
11:20 AM: A 39-year-old Olympia man is in the King County Jail for investigation of hate crime and robbery after an attack reported at Seacrest Pier. According to case documents we obtained this morning, a group of people was fishing at Seacrest just after 12:40 am Tuesday when the man approached them and said they should be speaking English (the police report says they were speaking Chinese). He also told them, the report says, they needed to “assimilate because this is America.” The police summary adds:
The suspect told the victims that they need to go back to their country, and that he is done with them. The suspect threatened to throw them in the water. The victims were scared, and another victim heard the threats and cursing. The fourth victim pulled out his phone to call 911, and the suspect forcefully took the victim’s new cell phone and threw it in the water. The suspect then pushed the victim and attempted to punch him.
Court documents say members of the group then held the man down while police were called. One witness had recorded video and showed it to police, who arrested the man and booked him into jail, where he remains, with bail set at $75,000, and another hearing scheduled this afternoon.
9:30 PM: Charges are now filed and we obtained the charging documents tonight. The suspect, Joshua C. Bucklin, now listed as a Lake Forest Park resident, is charged with two counts of hate crime and one count of theft. The documents say he has a “minor criminal record,” described as “a felony conviction from California for evading a peace officer: disregard safety (2015), and a misdemeanor conviction from California for DUI (2015).” The charging documents elaborate on the summary we cited earlier, including verbatims from what prosecutors describe as a ‘racist tirade” and noting that his alleged targets were teenagers. They tried repeatedly to de-escalate the situation, prosecutors say, but – as shown on the video given to police, the documents say – he just kept ramping up, though even a bystander urged him to “chill.” That bystander was the person who eventually held the suspect down until police arrived, and the owner of the phone Bucklin is accused of grabbing and tossing into the water. Bucklin remains in jail, bail set at $75,000, and will be arraigned in two weeks.
A bank lobby probably isn’t a place you’d think of as a party venue. But that’s what the HomeStreet Bank West Seattle branch (4022 SW Alaska; WSB sponsor) lobby was last night, hosting the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce‘s monthly After-Hours celebration, with this highlight:
At left is HomeStreet’s Bob Livingston; at right, Whitney Moore-Adams of Electric Butter Marketing. Hers was the West Seattle small business spotlighted this month at the bank, which means branch visitors in the past few weeks had the option to enter a drawing. The prize is provided by the spotlight business, and she in turn supported another local business by giving away locally crafted butter from A Butter Place. The August spotlight business is in the photo too – M & M Balloon Co., which created the island-themed balloon backdrop for the Chamber festivities.
(Wednesday’s sunset, photographed by Jan Pendergrass)
Here’s what’s happening for the rest of today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: Whatever you’re growing, it’s the heart of gardening season! The center is open Thursdays-Saturdays 10 am-3 pm, north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus.
PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: Stories, songs, learning activities geared toward 3- to 5-year-olds, 10:30 am at West Seattle (Admiral) Library (2306 42nd SW).
HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK: Open today and every day through Labor Day, 11 am-8 pm. Free. (1100 SW Cloverdale)
LOW-LOW TIDE: 11:07 am, it’s out to -3.0 feet. (Seattle Aquarium beach naturalists are scheduled to be at Constellation Park 9 am-noon.)
WADING POOLS: Three of the city’s West Seattle wading pools are operating today – Lincoln Park will be open noon-7 pm and Delridge and Hiawatha will be open noon-5:30 pm. Free.
COLMAN POOL: The heated salt-water pool on the shore at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW) is open noon-7 pm – see the schedule here. Fee.
WEST SEATTLE UKULELE PLAYERS: All levels welcome at this weekly 1 pm gathering. Email westseattleukuleleplayerswsup@gmail.com to get info about where they’re playing today.
SOUND TRANSIT BOARD: 1:30 pm monthly meeting includes West Seattle property acquisitions, as previewed here; public comment is accepted in person or online, and the agenda explains how.
WHERE DOES IT GO? High Point Library hosts Sustainability Stewards to teach you about waste reduction, 2-4 pm. (3411 SW Raymond)
DROP-IN CHESS: Teens are invited to come play at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), 4-5:30 pm.
HPCS FOOD-TRUCK VISIT: First of two regular Thursday night events 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: Another regular Thursday event at HPCS, 5-7:30 pm – info here.
MENDING WORKSHOP: 5-8 pm at KAVU in South Delridge – mending mentors will be there to help. RSVP here. (9064 Delridge Way SW)
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!
WESTIES RUN CLUB: 6 pm at The Good Society (California/Lander), the Westies Run Club‘s Thursday night community run.
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Rather walk instead of run? Meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fauntleroy for tonight’s group walk – details in our calendar listing.
ADMIRAL MUSIC IN THE PARKS: Second of three free Thursday night concerts presented by the Admiral Neighborhood Association, 6:30 pm, featuring Michael Pearsall & Friends at California Place Park (California & Hill). BYO chair, blanket, etc. And if you knit, join the Seattle Yarn knitting circle during the concert!
MORBIDLY CURIOUS BOOK CLUB: 6:30 pm at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW), with “The Butchering Art” the book this month.
LIVE MUSIC AT EASY STREET: Ollella live performance and record signing at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW), 7 pm, free, all ages.
DJ NIGHT: Extended-weekend spinning starts tonight at Revelry Room (4547 California SW), with DJ Kingblind & Teenage Rampage, 8 pm.
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!
When we published the remembrance for Rev. Dr. Stephen Ross two months ago, plans were not yet finalized for his Celebration of Life. Now they are:
A service celebrating the life of Rev. Dr. Stephen E. Ross will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 1 pm (PDT) at Saltwater Unitarian Universalist Church in Des Moines, Washington, and via Zoom for those who are unable to join in person. All who loved him or his family are welcome and encouraged to attend. The physical address and link to the live-stream can be found at saltwaterchurch.org/celebration-of-life-stephen-e-ross
(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)
6:03 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Thursday, July 24, 2025.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
Clouds making way for sun, high in the mid-70s. Today’s sunrise was at 5:37 am; sunset will be at 8:53 pm.
ROAD WORK
-Crews are working on curb ramps for all four corners of 60th/Admiral, and that’s closing 60th during work hours as well as affecting bike lanes near work crews.
-The major nighttime work ahead on and around 16th SW in White Center continues – details here.
-Admiral Bridge work continues, with both directions now carried on the south side.
TRANSIT TODAY
Metro buses – On regular schedule and routes today.
Washington State Ferries – WSF has resumed three-boat service on the Triangle Route, with M/V Kittitas, M/V Cathlamet, and M/V Issaquah. Vessel Watch will show you which boat is where.
Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle service; summer schedule, with later runs on Friday and Saturday nights, and on weeknights with Mariners home games (and certain special events).
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Looking west:
1st Avenue South Bridge:
Delridge cameras: In addition to the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.
MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.
See a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!
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