West Seattle, Washington
21 Wednesday
Here are our toplines from another of this week’s community-organization meetings – this time, the Admiral Neighborhood Association gathering Tuesday night at Admiral HUB, facilitated by ANA president Joanie Jacobs.
SEATTLE POLICE: The night’s main guest was Crime Prevention Coordinator Matt Brown representing SPD. He first presented 2025 stats for the precinct’s coverage area, West Seattle plus South Park:
-3,718 reported crimes
down 19 percent from year before
-415 reported crimes in Admiral last year
down 17 percent from year before
Typical of most if not all areas city-wide, Brown said, also noting, “The majority of crime is property crime.” Violent crime in Admiral held steady – 44 last year, 41 a year earlier. Confirmed gunfire for the entire precinct area – 91 total instances, 6 involved injuries, no deaths; 9 of the gunfire incidents were in Admiral, most recently in October. Brown said the department continues to closely track this. If you think you hear gunshots, even if you’re not sure, call 911. In all cases, even if you’re not 100 percent sure something’s an emergency, if it’s happening now or just happened, better to call 911 than not to – they’ll redirect you if needed.
Regarding personal safety, Brown offered some advice, having just taught a class earlier in the day. Be aware of everything. happening around you, was his top tip. But “if you’re constantly on high alert, you’re going to be exhausted.” Also: “Trust your feelings … trust yourself if you have a gut feeling about something, someone,” or some situation. Have a plan for what you might do in a specific situation. Evaluate your home’s security characteristics – you can replace a window with safety glass, for example, that resists breakage for longer. How bright are your lights? President Jacobs, who manages the coffee shop West Seattle Grounds, talked about reporting problems. What about if you’re not comfortable in a situation? Don’t jump in – but on the other hand, don’t ignore the impulse to try to help, like calling 911. He talked about alternate responders and their roles. “Go ahead and talk to them” if you see them at a scene or event.
There was also discussion of the 988 hotline, as well as the CARE Team – for dispatch of the latter, it all starts with a call to 911, Brown reiterated. And in response to a question from Jacobs, Brown said there are resources for businesses to work on crime, safety, and damage repairs.
ANA board member Ryan Crompton asked about police hiring. Despite the “huge hiring” success last year, the department still has a lot of ground to gain to get back to what’s considered full staffing. SPD remains “very optimistic about the numbers.”
Have we had any ICE activity in West Seattle? another attendee asked. While cautioning that he may not be the best authority, Brown said, not that he’s heard of. And in general, he said that if you see someone looking as if they’re being kidnapped, call 911, officers will respond and will sort it out if it turns out to be federal law enforcers.
MEMBERSHIP: New levels are available to support the ANA and its community work and events, ANA board member Dan Jacobs said. One businessperson who got a shoutout for offering major “All in for Admiral” support is Paula Kennedy from Timeless Kitchen Design (also a WSB sponsor), for example. Community support via membership is a huge reason why the ANA has been able to expand the size and number of events offered. There was talk of how to increase residential membership too – if you sign up for a $40 membership, what does that money do? They’re working on clear communication of the answer to that question. One attendee suggested that even features at events – like portable toilets! – could feature signage saying “Your membership dollars helped pay for this!” Also noted: A mistaken assumption that Admiral is, like The Junction, a “business improvement area” (BIA) with dues and funding. In short – it’s not. Some residents may in fact have the assumption that ANA is just a business group, Kennedy suggested – but it isn’t, at all (in fact, business involvement has been relatively recent, after a few attempts at creating an Admiral business group ebbed). Brainstorming ensued, including ways to network with other Admiral residents – dog walking? crafting? gardening? microneighborhood activities?
2026 EVENTS: Less than six months till this year’s Fourth of July Kids’ Parade! Joanie Jacobs said volunteer power aplenty is needed, as always, to make it work. “And it’s a great way to connect and meet people!” she enthused. This year’s Admiral Music in the Parks – last three Thursdays of July – will again be at three different parks (even though Hiawatha, the longtime venue will finally have reopened by then), and that needs volunteer help too. The Admiral Block Party also needs “lots of volunteers” – fourth Saturday of August. Then there’ll be a neighborhood cleanup too, maybe even two.
NEXT MEETING: March 10, also at the Admiral HUB. (And before then, Dan Jacobs reminded everyone, and as was announced here in mid-December, Hiawatha Community Center‘s grand reopening celebration is set for February 21st – the city is organizing that, so details are yet to come.)
-Tracy Record, WSB editor
1:53 PM: Reported by Sebastian: A friend’s car was stolen this morning in the Pelly Place ravine area north of Lincoln Park. It’s an olive green 1994 right-hand-drive Toyota RAV4. We’re awaiting the license-plate and police-report numbers, but in the meantime, if you find it, call 911.
5:04 PM: Just heard from the vehicle’s owner – it’s been found.
(WSB photos by Torin Record-Sand)
Before the three-day weekend that ends with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, at least one local school honored his memory with an assembly followed by a march.
Students and staff at Louisa Boren STEM K-8 marched around their campus along the 5900 block of Delridge Way SW this morning.
They carried handmade signs with messages of peace and justice.
Some signs highlighted quotes from Dr. King.
Thanks to the STEM K-8 PTA for letting us know about this!
(Olympics’ appearance Thursday afternoon – courtesy JCV)
Here’s what’s happening today/tonight – mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
FREE STROLLER STRIDES CLASS: 9:30 am at West Seattle VFW Hall with FIT4MOM – info in our calendar listing. (3601 SW Alaska)
ONLINE-ORDERING FOOD FUNDRAISER: Order pickup or delivery online today from Panda Express using this information, and part of the proceeds will benefit The Bridge School Cooperative Elementary.
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER It’s open again today, 10 am-3 pm at north end of South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus (6000 16th SW).
STAY ‘N’ PLAY: Free indoor playtime for little ones and their caregivers, 10 am-11:30 am at Arbor Heights Community Church (4113 SW 102nd).
BABY STORY TIME: 11 am-11:30 am at Delridge Library (5423 Delridge Way SW).
LOG HOUSE MUSEUM: Visit the Log House Museum (61st/Stevens) to learn about local history – open noon-4 pm today.
ENGLISH CONVERSATION CIRCLE: New session continues at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), 12:30 pm-2 pm Fridays, no registration required.
TASTING ROOM AND WINE BAR: Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor) is open 5-9 pm Fridays. Stop in to sip, or buy by the bottle.
TEEN ART JAM: From ArtsCorps:
Join Arts Corps for art making in the first Teen Art Jam of 2026 Friday, January 16, 5-7pm.
Whether your new year’s resolutions include more art making, or if you just want a place to hang out with some friends, we welcome all teens ages 14-19 to attend this open studio time. Teen Art Jam is free, with dinner and supplies provided. It takes place at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, 4408 Delridge Way SW, Suite 110.
You can RSVP here: tfaforms.com/5104910
HIGH-SCHOOL BASKETBALL: No home games tonight.
COFFEEHOUSE MUSIC: 6-8 pm, Singer-songwriter Phil Parsons at C & P Coffee. (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), all ages, no cover.
ADMIRAL PUB BINGO: 7 pm, classic bingo! (2306 California SW)
LIVE AT THE SKYLAEK: Cheap Fun, SULK, Supreme Masters of Relaxed Living perform at 8 pm (doors at 7), all ages, $10. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
LIVE AT TIM’S: 8 pm, 3 local singer-songwriters. (16th/98th, White Center)
SPINNING: Revelry Room is open tonight (4547 California SW), with DJ Ryan Fresh, 9 pm.
‘MAKE IT LOUD’ SKATING WITH MUSIC: Tonight, skate to Forest Ray & Billy and the Dreamboats, 9 pm at Southgate Roller Rink (9646 17th SW). 21+. $20 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!
(Added: Video by Mark Bauschke)
8:04 AM: Killer whales are in Elliott Bay this morning, off Duwamish Head, Kersti Muul tells us. She says they are headed toward Alki Point.
8:24 AM: She says three transient orcas are almost to the Vashon ferry lanes.
8:41 AM: A second group, she says, is still north of Alki Point, headed southbound.
9:23 AM: Update from Kersti, first group has passed Lincoln Park, SB, and the other is off Duwamish Head “on a kill.” Meantime, she adds that Southern Residents from K-Pod are in the Tacoma area: “Whales everywhere!”
1:04 PM: Thanks to Mark Bauschke for the video – added above.
5:22 PM: Thanks to everyone else who’s since shared photos and video too – we’ve been away from the desk much of the afternoon but are adding now. First, Trileigh Tucker caught a breach on video:
She also sent photos:
These next two photos are by Daniel Walsh:
ADDED: Video by Mark Rhea:
Check comments too!
6:00 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Friday, January 16, 2026.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
The forecast predicts a sunny day, high around 50, north breeze. Sunrise at 7:52 am; sunset at 4:46 pm.
(Thursday sunset, photographed by Bob Burns)
TRANSIT TODAY
West Seattle Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle service, fall/winter schedule. The WT *will* run on. Monday.
Washington State Ferries – According to WSF’s alerts page, the Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth route is back to three boats but will be on two-boat service Monday because of boat moves; also, some trips will be canceled tonight.
Metro buses – Regular weekday schedule and routes today (as well as Monday).
ROAD WORK
*In White Center, the final phase of work on 16th SW between 100th and 107th is under way.
3-DAY REV. DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY WEEKEND
*Saturday, Seahawks postseason home game – 5 pm vs. 49ers at Lumen Field
*Monday, closures – including schools – and other changes will mark MLK Day.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Here’s the westward view. Also note, maritime-opening info is available via X (ex-Twitter):
1st Avenue South Bridge:
Delridge cameras: In addition to the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.
MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.
See a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!
As previously reported. Seattle Police postponed the next quarterly-ish Southwest Precinct Advisory Council from its originally scheduled date this week – and now there’s a new date, so you can set your calendar if you’re interested in attending. This meeting is an opportunity for people in the area to hear from and talk with local police. Crime Prevention Coordinator Matt Brown says the official time/date is now 6:30 pm Tuesday, February 17, at the precinct’s community room, 2300 SW Webster – all welcome.
Two months after the King County budget process put Harbor Island Studios‘ future into question, the county’s Film Advisory Board led a meeting there tonight. Joe Follansbee sent photos and a short summary:
I attended the informational meeting tonight at Harbor Island Studios held by the KCFAB.
Big turnout. No real news. The future of the facility is still in doubt. But there’s plenty of community support.
The KCFAB promises status reports in a newsletter you can subscribe to here.
One week from tonight, Chief Sealth International High School opens its doors to prospective students and their families for an open house. School administrators asked us to share the reminder. The open house starts at 5:45 pm Thursday, January 22. Here’s a brief preview on the school website. A student panel will be there to answer questions, along with staff. Food will be provided in the Galleria, and interpretation will be available in Spanish, Somali, and Oromo. CSIHS is at 2600 SW Thistle.
A 60-year-old man is charged with three felony counts of organized retail theft for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars in merchandise from Ulta Beauty stores all over King County, including the one in Westwood Village.
(Images from charging documents, showing Gama at WWV Ulta store)
David J. Gama is charged in 24 thefts over 55 days from November to early January, with stolen merchandise estimated to total well into five figures, including an almost-thousand-dollar theft from the Westwood store on December 1, a $400+ theft there five days later, a $1,600+ theft there the net day, a $500+ theft three on December 18, a $300+ theft there on New Year’s Day, and a $200+ theft there on January 4. The charging documents provided by the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office describe most of the stolen merchandise as “fragrance.”
The documents also say Gama has been the subject of 75 arrest warrants dating back to 1980, and that his record includes five felony convictions, 19 gross misdemeanors, and 11 misdemeanors. He’s been in jail since last Friday, in lieu of $50,000 bail. He pleaded not guilty at arraignment this morning. KCPAO spokesperson Casey McNerthney explains that felony charges are not common in shoplifting cases: “The overwhelming majority of shoplifting cases are misdemeanor offenses under the law, meaning that they are handled at the city level and do not come to King County prosecutors. When you have evidence to show organized retail theft allegations in cases such as this one, a case are referred by police investigators as a felony referral.”
(File photo, WCFB HQ)
The White Center Food Bank – which also serves south West Seattle – is halfway to its “end of year” (and start of new one) fundraising goal, so they can keep up with an ever-growing need. They’re grateful for the nearly $50,000 contributed so far, and looking for help to get closer to the finish line. From the request for support:
This milestone comes during a year of extraordinary growth and achievement for White Center Food Bank. In 2025, we successfully sunset our Capital Campaign after raising $1.5 million above its $8.6 million goal, paid off ourare debt-free owners of our new building. We also sold out the 4th annual Taste of White Center, expanded gleaning programs at the West Seattle and Burien Farmers Markets, resulting in more than 45,000 pounds of donated produce while also strengthening community connections through artist collaborations, donor appreciation events, and community partner meetings.
If you can support WCFB, all you have to do is go here.
In the spirit of the Wine Walk, the West Seattle Junction Association has announced its first-ever Sweet Stroll, and your ticket awaits!
Grab your sweet tooth and your walking shoes! The West Seattle Sweet Stroll is your chance to spend a cozy Sunday afternoon sampling desserts from some of the Junction’s most-loved spots — all for just $20.
From pies and doughnuts to ice cream and pastries, you’ll stroll at your own pace, collect stamps in your Sweet Stroll passport, and enjoy exclusive samples from A la Mode Pies, Molly Moon’s, Top Pot Doughnuts, Bakery Nouveau, and Panterelli.
It’s fun, it’s delicious, and it’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself (and maybe a friend). Tickets are limited — don’t miss this sweetest walk of the winter!
The Sweet Stroll is set for 2-5 pm Sunday, February 1st, and ticket(s) are available here while they last.
SDOT sent that photo as part of a reply to our question about the status of the additions it promised at “the curve” toward the southwest end of the westbound West Seattle Bridge, a location that’s seen more than a few crashes. The department says its crews have finished installing what it told us about two weeks ago – “curve warning signs, and raised pavement markers to enhance visibility for approaching drivers.” SDOT says they’re still evaluating additional action, including “reflective markings on the existing guardrail” and “either grinding the top layer of pavement or installing a high-friction surface treatment.” We’ll continue following up.
12:25 PM: Mayor Katie Wilson has announced her first two executive orders. One is regarding homelessness. Here’s how the city announcement summarizes it:
Mayor Wilson is ordering immediate action to bring people inside by expediting the expansion of shelter and affordable housing.
Her executive order to accelerate the expansion of emergency shelter and affordable housing will:
-Rapidly expand and expedite the provision of new shelter and affordable housing by immediately launching an interdepartmental team to identify options for financial incentives, permitting changes, and other policy changes.
-Identify and prioritize city-owned public land and other public lands which could be used to temporarily or permanently site new emergency shelter and housing.
-Coordinate with regional partners to identify shelter programs that have capacity to add units to existing programs.
-Identify best practices working with organizations with expertise in behavioral health to support substance use disorder treatment and mental health counseling for housing and shelter programs.
You can see the actual order text here. We’re asking some followup questions, including the timeline. The other executive order involves a bus lane on Denny Way downtown; read that order here.
ADDED 3:28 PM: We received answers to our followup questions via mayoral spokesperson Sage Wilson.
-We asked about a timeline – “rapid” could mean many things. His reply: “The literal reality of ‘rapidly’ is one of the early outcomes of the EO – need to hear from the departments what is possible. The mayor is determined to move quickly, however, and spoke today about FIFA this spring as a time to take stock. (Her full remarks are available on Seattle Channel.)”
-We also asked if encampment resolutions (sweeps) were being suspended until more shelter is available. The reply: “Resolutions of encampments are not suspended and the Unified Care Team certainly still exists and is still at work. For example, I believe an RV site near the stadiums was just cleared recently. The mayor is assessing how we can do better than the current procedures, and her visit in Ballard yesterday was part of that to really see for herself. But resolutions are continuing to proceed – city reporting shows 101 resolutions of encampments & RV sites since 1/4. And as the mayor said in her statement yesterday, clearing encampments and managing public space will continue to be part of the city’s approach.”
One question Wilson is checking on further – and we’ll add the answer when it arrives – is whether private shelters like the one in West Seattle have a role in the planned pursuit of more space.
ADDED 3:41 PM: The answer to that: “Yes, expanding privately operated shelters is one strategy that would help meet the goals in the Executive Order on expanding shelter.”
(Photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)
From the Event Calendar (where you’ll find even more):
FREE PLAYSPACE: West Seattle Church of the Nazarene is opening its free community playspace two mornings a week, 9 am-noon Tuesdays and Thursdays. (42nd/Juneau)
GATHERING AT THE VOID: Get out of the home office for a few hours! “Work, Game, Craft, or Chat! At The Void” hangout at The Void, 10 am-noon Thursdays. (5048 California SW)
WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY RUN/WALK: New free, fun gathering, 10 am, starting from Lincoln Park parking lot #2. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: The ground still hasn’t frozen, so this remains a good time to plant – and/or plan! Explore the possibilities – the center is back open Thursdays-Saturdays 10 am-3 pm – north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus.
TODDLER STORY TIME IN WESTWOOD: Southwest Library story time (9010 35th SW), 10:30 am.
PRESCHOOL STORY TIME IN ADMIRAL: West Seattle Library story time (2306 42nd SW), 10:30 am.
FREE MIDDAY JAZZ CONCERT: Noon at Alki UCC (6115 SW Hinds), live music, all welcome!
WEST SEATTLE UKULELE PLAYERS: All levels welcome at this weekly 1 pm gathering. Email westseattleukuleleplayerswsup@gmail.com to see where they’re playing today. (Even if you just want to know so you can go listen!)
DROP-IN CHESS: High Point Library‘s weekly event is on today, 4-5:30 pm for players under 18. (3411 SW Raymond)
HPCS FOOD-TRUCK VISIT: First of two regular Thursday night events at HPCS – every Thursday, 4-8 pm, Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) gets a food-truck visit. Tonight it’s The Original Philly.
WINE TASTING WITH CLARK: Another regular Thursday event at HPCS, 5-7:30 pm – info here.
POSTCARDS 4 DEMOCRACY, EVENING EDITION: 5 pm gathering at Great American Diner and Bar (4752 California SW) for long-distance advocacy.
WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Open 5-8 pm for your tool-borrowing needs. (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center)
VISCON CELLARS: This West Seattle winery’s friendly tasting room/wine bar is open Thursdays, 5-9 pm (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor), for wine by the glass or bottle!
RAT CITY ART WALK ON HIATUS: The third-Thursday art-and-food walk in White Center is taking a few months off, back on April 16.
WESTIES RUN CLUB: 6 pm, starting from Future Primitive Beach Bar (2536 Alki SW), you’re welcome to join the Westies Run Club‘s Thursday night community run!
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: If you’d rather walk, there’s an option for you too! Meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fauntleroy for tonight’s group walk – details in our calendar listing.
ALKI COMMUNITY COUNCIL: 7 pm at Alki UCC (6115 SW Hinds), all welcome, with topics including community safety and the new banners.
TRIVIA AT ADMIRAL PUB: 7 pm, prizes, 21+. (2306 California SW)
CONSCIOUS CONNECTION: 7:15 pm at Revitalize Spa (8142 15th SW), a time and place to connect, reflect, meditate, more. Our calendar listing has more info.
TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE VOID: New West Seattle trivia night! 7:30 pm, with prizes, at The Void (5048 California SW).
DJ NIGHT: Spinning happens tonight at Revelry Room (4547 California SW), with DJ Slow at 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!
Family and friends are remembering Loren D. Milliman and sharing this remembrance with the community now:
Loren approached life with an open mind, a playful sense of humor, and an unshakable curiosity about how things worked—and where the next road might lead.
Loren Delong Milliman, born on June 27, 1937, passed away on August 4th, 2025, at the age of 88. Born to Loren Holcombe Milliman and Delia Grace Milliman (née Delong), Loren was raised in Portland, Oregon, and was a beloved member of his family and community.
Graduating from Grant High School in 1954, Loren’s academic journey took him to Stanford University, Portland State College, and the University of Washington. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from UW in 1963 and explored electrical engineering and physics as a UW graduate student along the way. While working in a UW physics lab, Loren helped develop electronic circuitry that ultimately became part of a Seattle World’s Fair exhibit — an early sign of the meaningful and fascinating work that would define his career.
While a student at UW, Loren met Norma and they were married on March 19, 1962. Shortly after, they moved to Huntsville, Alabama, where Loren spent a year contributing to the NASA space program through his work with the Chrysler Corporation. He played a role in the ambitious efforts of the space race before returning to the Pacific Northwest to begin a long career at Boeing in October 1963. Over more than two decades at the Boeing Radiation Effects Laboratory, Loren worked on advanced projects including designing and implementing control systems for the Free Electron Laser. Before retiring from Boeing he worked on test code development and computer program verification for the Boeing 777. He was widely respected for his precision, creativity, and commitment to quality — and for his memorable saying, “If you can’t do it in Excel, why bother?”
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Loren found joy in his family, in the outdoors and the arts. He loved camping and hiking with his family — exploring new places, taking photographs, sailing, biking, and embracing moments of silliness. Music was a constant companion throughout his life. He played saxophone in high school and college, performed with the All City Band in Portland, played piano, sang in the church choir, and rang handbells with Bells of the Sound, Beaus and Bells, and the Valley Ringers, even arranging handbell music for the groups. When his grandchildren arrived, they brought even more joy to his life.
Loren often volunteered his time to help others with anything computer related; he served as the webmaster for the Snoqualmie Falls Theater, as well as being a member of the Green Valley Computer Club. His early years as a Boy Scout helped instill a lifelong love of learning, exploration, and service. He also served as a precinct committeeman for our neighborhood in the North Admiral district, was active in the Mountaineers, and spent many years as a soccer referee for youth teams.
During the early 2000s Norma and Loren became snowbirds with a second home in Green Valley, Arizona. Their home base was in West Seattle for over 50 years, where they created many memorable moments, before moving in 2023 to Wesley Des Moines.
Loren is survived by his sister-in-law, Patt Cranage; his daughter, Elizabeth (Ernie); his son, Loren M. (Janice); and four of the greatest joys of his life — his grandchildren, Delia, Loren A., Norman, and Patrick. He was preceded in death by his sister Grace and by the love of his life, his wife Norma Milliman, who passed away in February 2025.
Loren will be remembered as a man of intelligence, kindness, humor, and wonder — someone who never stopped asking questions, making music, or discovering what might be just down the road.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your favorite Alzheimer’s charity.
(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, January 15, 2026.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
The forecast predicts a partly sunny day, high around 50, north breeze. Sunrise at 7:52 am; sunset at 4:45 pm.
TRANSIT TODAY
West Seattle Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle service, fall/winter schedule.
Washington State Ferries – According to WSF’s alerts page, the Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth route is back to three boats, with M/V Sealth as #3.
Metro buses – Regular weekday schedule and routes today.
ROAD WORK
*In White Center, the final phase of work on 16th SW between 100th and 107th is under way.
UPCOMING HOLIDAY
*Monday, closures – including schools – and other changes will mark Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Here’s the westward view. Also note, maritime-opening info is available via X (ex-Twitter):
1st Avenue South Bridge:
Delridge cameras: In addition to the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.
MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.
See a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!
11:21 PM: Police and fire are on their way to the 6500 block of High Point Drive, where at least one shooting victim is reported after word of gunfire. The shots may have been fired from a “dark SUV.” Updates to come.
11:27 PM: Updated location is the 6500 block of Sylvan Way, where the westbound lanes are being blocked for the investigation. Initial assessment of the person shot is that their wound(s) are serious but not life-threatening.
(Reader photo, from comments)
11:35 PM: Officers told dispatch that witnesses say the vehicle might have been a Highlander, with five people inside, teens to early 20s, black clothing, black face masks. Meantime, officers are finding some bullet damage to parked vehicles.
1 AM: Sylvan Way has reopened.
ADDED 8:56 AM: Here’s what SPD has released:
Seattle police detectives are investigating a shooting that injured a 42-year-old woman in the High Point neighborhood last night.
On Jan. 14 about 11:15 p.m., patrol officers responded to a shooting in the 6500 block of Sylvan Way Southwest. There, officers found a victim shot in her arm. Police and firefighters treated the woman and medics took her to the Harborview Medical Center in stable condition.
Detectives in the Gun Violence Reduction Unit (GVRU) responded to process the scene and interview the victim. Police determined that multiple suspects shot at the victim’s vehicle, striking her inside of it. Multiple vehicles and at least one occupied home were also struck by gunfire. Approximately 60 rounds were fired.
The circumstances leading up to the shooting are under investigation. The suspects fled the area in a vehicle before police arrived and officers did not make any arrests.
This is an open and active case assigned to GVRU. Anyone with information is asked to call the SPD Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000. Anonymous tips are accepted. Incident Number: 2026-13556
By Jason Grotelueschen
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
The Fauntleroy Community Association met on Tuesday night at the Fauntleroy Schoolhouse for their January meeting, to kick off the new year.
One important “save the date” for neighbors to make note of, which was discussed and decided in the meeting: The group’s annual meeting and popular “Food Fest” will be held Tuesday, March 24, from 6-8 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy (9131 California SW). More details below, and in our coverage of last year’s event.
Additional notes and toplines from the meeting, which was led by president Frank Immel:
SPD UPDATE: Jamie Heslin from Southwest Precinct was on hand to provide some updates and crime statistics, focusing on “year over year” comparisons for 2025 vs 2024:
One attendee asked about the ambiguity between hearing gunshots and fireworks, and Heslin emphasized “when in doubt, just call it in,” and 911 is the preferred number. For anything considerably less urgent, the non-emergency number is 206-625-5011. Although many Ring cameras are associated with neighbor-provided crime reports, Heslin said “Ring posts are not police reports” and encouraged people to always call 911 to report it, rather than just posting online.
Attendees asked about the Jan 6 evening helicopter/ground search in and near Fauntleroy Park (see WSB coverage here) involving a stolen and abandoned car. Heslin didn’t have any additional details, because SPD CSOs (Community Service Officers) such as herself typically work until 10 pm, and this incident occurred after that. SPD and KCSO officers responded, and the search involved quite a large area.
Heslin then excused herself from the meeting, explaining that SPD was “in four different places tonight,” providing community updates to various groups.
FINANCIAL UPDATE AND BUDGET: Treasurer Alan Grainger presented a year-end overview of the group’s 2025 finances, and led a discussion about items planned for the 2026 budget. The group’s finances were better than budget in 2025, and Grainger presented a balanced budget for 2026. As discussed in last month’s FCA meeting, the group is still planning to do some sort of neighborhood survey in 2026 (see the 2023 results here) and is budgeting for that. FCA is the area’s only community council that regularly surveys its residents and businesses. Fundraising efforts for the Fauntleroy Fall Festival were particularly strong.
Other budget items discussed included maintenance of neighborhood plantings, crossing flags (the group places these in the neighborhood but their current supply is depleted), website and administrative costs and potential savings, and various fundraising ideas (including sponsored flower baskets similar to those in the Alaska Junction). Grainger will make revisions to the budget based on the group’s discussion, and they’ll vote on approval of the budget in their February meeting.
ANNUAL MEETING AND FOOD FEST: As mentioned above, the date and time is set for Tuesday, March 24, 6-8 pm. Board members David and Reed Haggerty attended Tuesday’s meeting via phone, to talk about preliminary plans and to get feedback from the board. The group will start promoting the event via email and their newsletter. They want to consider doing some different fundraising ideas and displays this year, and as usual they’ll need lots of volunteer support. More to come in the near future.
501c3 vs 501c4 STATUS: Vice president Catherine Bailey led a brief discussion regarding her research into the group’s non-profit status. FCA currently has 501c4 status, and there has been some discussion about considering 501c3 status to potentially unlock broader funding and tax-deductible donations. There are pros/cons and things to consider for both options, Bailey said, including potential limitations on community advocacy and endorsements. Next steps: More research into the options, and consulting legal/tax counsel before making any decisions.
TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE:
The Fauntleroy Community Association board meets on the second Tuesday of most months at 6 pm, usually in-person and online – go here for info. The group will meet again in February, on Tuesday the 10th.
King County Metro is increasing service, and is now hiring for drivers to make sure they can keep up with an influx of tourists this summer and beyond. Part of the increase is for the World Cup, but there are longer-term increases in service too, including additional RapidRide lines. Metro plans to hire 375 part-time and 150 full-time drivers this year.
(King County Metro photo)
When hired, drivers go through up to 2 months of paid training, including getting the license that allows them to drive busses. There is also a bonus available and a starting wage of $31.39 after training.
The deadline for applications for part-time positions is next Friday, January 23rd. More information can be found on Metro’s website.
A West Seattleite is the incumbent in the race for King County Prosecuting Attorney this year. In a news release today, Leesa Manion said she will seek a second 4-year term after making some significant changes in the Prosecuting Attorney’s office during her first term. So far, campaign finance records show she is the only candidate.
Manion started her last term by adding new units within the office for gun violence prevention, gender-based violence and prevention, an economic crimes and wage theft division, and a felony traffic unit. Last October, she modified case review policy in the office so that all charges referred by law enforcement would have a decision about whether they would be filed within 30 days.
In announcing her candidacy for re-election, Manion pointed to progress made, from juvenile justice to increased focus on retail theft and more. “I’m proud of our accomplishments, from reducing the pandemic-era backlog of unfiled cases in our courts to proactively addressing public safety priorities,” said Manion. “We made our office more responsive to the needs of our diverse communities and more effective at balancing accountability, crime prevention, and victim support.” She also points to work still to be done around hate crimes and federal overreach.
Manion won the election in 2022 with 58% of the vote. She succeeded Dan Satterberg, for whom she was chief of staff.
(photo by Charlotte Starck)
New flags are being installed today on light poles along a portion of the Alki Beach sidewalk/path as an eye-catching part of a beautification effort by Alki Community Council. They’re expected to stay up through the World Cup this summer and beyond.
When the install is complete, there will be 16 colorful flags total, on every other light pole between 54th and 63rd Avenue SW. There are two flag designs, with graphics of the Olympics, Orca whales, and ferries, all nestled along Alki Beach. Design work was donated by Rupert, a marketing and design firm.
Alki Community Council started work on planning the flags following a request they made for maintenance by City Light on the light poles, which had become rusty. After those were spruced up, volunteer members of the non-profit council got to work on securing funding, and planning to make and install the flags. A Seattle Department of Neighborhoods grant helped fund the effort.
There have been flags installed on the light poles in the past, with one of the last during Seafair in 2009. Community Council President Charlotte Starck says that makes it high time for these improvements. “This project goes beyond aesthetics. It’s about restoring vitality, signaling care, and reminding residents and visitors alike that Alki Beach is a place worth protecting and nurturing.” The flags are designed to stay up for several years.
(Photos taken at Roxhill Elementary with classes of Kyoko Giedeman and Margaret Gamache)
Story by Judy Pickens
Photos by Torin Record-Sand
For West Seattle Blog
Since 1991, West Seattle schools in the Salmon in the Schools program have received their coho salmon eggs in early January, but not this year.
Students returned from winter break to find their tanks already populated by tiny alevin (the first stage of growth).
“Temperature affects the pace at which salmon eggs mature and our mild fall weather caused them to mature much faster than usual,” explained Phil Sweetland with the Fauntleroy Watershed Council. “On very short notice, teachers had their tanks ready for eggs two weeks early.”
In the quiet of hallways across West Seattle, those eggs started hatching into more than 2,000 alevin on December 24. Because they come equipped with a food sac, the alevin took care of themselves until classes resumed. As they watch their alevin grow and change into fry, students will be learning about biology, habitat, and stewardship until release season in May.
Fauntleroy volunteers will assist with an expected 17 release field trips.
Because of construction to replace the Fauntleroy Creek culvert under 45th Ave. SW, preschool and other small groups will release into the lower creek and elementary groups will release into Longfellow Creek.
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