UPDATE: Water-rescue response off Harbor Avenue, canceled

2:16 PM: Fire and police personnel are rushing by sea and land to search for a diver who’s been reported missing, reported to have last been seen between Salty’s (1936 Harbor SW) and Marination (1660 Harbor SW).

2:21 PM: Emergency personnel report they’ve made contact with the diver who was feared missing, and the response is being canceled.

PHOTOS: West Seattle Junction FC’s final home match a victorious thriller

PHOTOS BY DAVE GERSHGORN FOR WSB

West Seattle Junction FC, the pre-pro soccer team in its second season, played its final home match of the year last night at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex, and it was a thriller. Team owner Jessica Pierce shares the highlights, to go with our first-half photos from WSB contributing photojournalist Dave Gershgorn:

(Forward Alex Mejia waves as the team is introduced before the match)

Down 0-3 at the half, Coach Oman made some front line change-ups, adding in Joschi Schelb from Rutgers and Mani Diop, defender at UW.

Schelb quickly fueled the fire adding a point to the board! West Seattle fans and the drum line pounding in the stands were all on their feet.

From the 70th minute on, Diop delivered goals 2 & 3 to tie up the game, including a brilliant header off a corner. Schelb with the winning goal with a key assist by Will Maschmedt in the 87th minute, making it 4-3. With 6 minutes of stoppage added, the crowd remained on their feet until that final whistle blew.

West Seattle loves this tenacious team and we love West Seattle! The support you’ve all shown us in year 2 has been incredible! We can’t wait for year 3!

Other game scenes:

Junction FC wraps up the season Friday night on the road vs. FC Olympia. … One more note from the organization, if you have a young player in the household:

The Rhodies & Junction FC host a youth player clinic from 10 am-12 pm on Saturday at Delridge playfields. Visit the Junction FC website to sign up and train with the team & staff!

The clinic is $65 and geared for (updated) U8 through U15 age groups.

FOLLOWUP: What’s ahead for traffic-calming on 16th SW and elsewhere around West Seattle

(WSB photo, Tuesday)

After tips about the speed cushions that have just been installed on 16th Avenue SW in the Cloverdale/Trenton vicinity, we sent inquiries to SDOT regarding why, and regarding what else is ahead, there and anywhere else in West Seattle, for “traffic-calming.” We received a detailed reply, first about the 16th SW additions:

(About the newly installed speed cushions), those will be part of a Safe Routes to School project, and will include 3 speed cushions near Highland Park Elementary School on 16th Ave SW between SW Sullivan St and SW Henderson St.

The project also includes repainting the parking-edge line to narrow travel lanes to 11 feet on 16th Ave SW between SW Holden St and SW Henderson St. Narrowing lanes in combination with the speed cushions should slow down driver speeds and make 16th more comfortable to cross.

You can expect to see 5 more speed cushions on 16th Ave SW as part of the Vision Zero street-calming project between SW Brandon St to SW Roxbury St. That includes:

-4 new speed cushions north of SW Holly St
-1 speed cushion south of SW Othello St

That project also includes safety enhancements to improve visibility for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians at 12 intersections on 16th Ave SW (between SW Findlay St and SW Cambridge St), as well as centerline raised pavement markers (between SW Brandon St and SW Roxbury St).

So that’s what’s ahead for 16th SW. As for the rest of West Seattle:

Additional speed cushions coming to West Seattle:

*On SW Trenton St between 35th Ave SW to Delridge Way SW.

*On 62nd, 61st and 60th Aves SW in Alki.

Some of those streets already have speed cushions, so we’re pursuing details on exact locations. Last but not least, from SDOT’s reply:

Additional Safe Routes to School projects that we expect to build this year in West Seattle include:

Madison Middle School – push button crossing beacon (i.e., RRFB) at California/Hinds and California/Spokane and intersection daylighting (paint/post bulbs that make people crossing easier to see) to improve the Madison School Street crossings [45th SW in front of the school]

Pathfinder K-8 – curb ramps adjacent to the school at 19th Ave SW and SW Genesee St

-West Seattle Elementary – All-way stops adjacent to the school

SDOT’s reply also mentioned one school-safety project for Concord International Elementary in South Park, “curb bulbs adjacent to the school (on 7th/Henderson and 8th/Henderson) and a separate walkway with trees on S Henderson St between 12th and 14th Ave S (currently under construction).

We have a standing request with SDOT for the construction notices on projects like all of these, typically just sent to neighbors in the immediate area but often of interest far beyond; we don’t always get them, so your collaboration is appreciated – let us know if you get a notice and/or see pre-construction markings!

Here’s our list for your West Seattle Wednesday!

July 9, 2025 9:54 am
|    Comments Off on Here’s our list for your West Seattle Wednesday!
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Recent sunrise colors from Luna/Anchor Park, photographed by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)

Here’s what’s happening, and not happening, in the hours ahead, mostly as featured on the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

SUMMER FOOD: As reported here, there are multiple sites/times/days in West Seattle where kids can get breakfast, lunch, and/or snacks.

WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: 10 am Wednesday walks leave from 47th/Fauntleroy (this is a last-minute reminder, so set your calendar for next Wednesday morning if interested!).

COAST SALISH CLASS TIME: 10:30 am at West Seattle (Admiral) Library (2306 42nd SW):

Ty Juvinel, Tulalip tribal member, carver, and storyteller, brings local legends and history to life through stories and Pacific Northwest tribal art.

TODDLER READING TIME AT PAPER BOAT: 10:30 am at the bookstore. (4522 California SW)

HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK: Open every day, 11 am-8 pm. (1100 SW Cloverdale)

COLMAN POOL: The open-every-day season continues at Lincoln Park‘s outdoor, heated salt-water pool! Noon-7 pm; see the session schedule here. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

WADING POOLS: Despite this morning’s cloudy weather, the city says the pools WILL open today – Delridge (4501 Delridge Way SW) will be open noon-5:30 pm; Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW) will be open noon-7 pm.

REJUVENATE YOGA: Weekly class at Viva Arts, 1:30 pm. Drop-in. $20. (4421 Fauntleroy Way SW)

AMERICAN MAH JONGG: All levels welcome, 2-4:30 pm at The Missing Piece (35th/Roxbury).

‘WILD ROBOT’ READ-ALOUD CLUB: 1 pm at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW), starting today! Info here.

PICKUP SOCCER FOR KIDS: Free pickup games at Delridge Playfield (4458 Delridge Way SW), ages 9-13, 5:30-7 pm. RSVP to organizer at iamcasanova2024@gmail.com.

FIX-IT WORKSHOP: Got something that’s broken? Fix it instead of discarding it! Weekly event, free (donations appreciated), 5:30-7:30 pm at West Seattle Tool Library (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center).

DRAG BINGO: 6 pm at Pine Lake Cellars (5405 California SW), hosted by Jolene Granby. Find the reservations link in our calendar listing.

CRIBBAGE: New schedule for cribbage at West Seattle Eagles (4426 California SW), including 6 pm tonight.

WEST SEATTLE URBANISM: All are welcome at the group’s weekly happy-hour meetup, 6-8 pm at Great American Diner & Bar. (4752 California SW).

OPEN STUDIO AT POTTERINGS: 6 pm, get creative at the studio! (3400 Harbor SW)

NO 34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS MEETING: This month, the group skips the usual second-Wednesday meeting.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT RUN: 6:15 pm group run with West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) – all welcome.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE LOCOL: 6:30 pm. 21+. Rotating performer lineup. (7902 35th SW)

KUNDALINI YOGA & GONG BATH: 7 pm at Inner Alchemy Studio/Sanctuary (3618 SW Alaska), $35.

MUSIC BINGO: at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7 pm.

REGULAR TRIVIA x 4: Four West Seattle trivia locations on our Wednesday list: Admiral Pub (2306 California SW) at 7 pm … Larry’s Tavern (3405 California SW) hosts Wednesday trivia at 8 pm … Quiz Night also begins at 8 pm at Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW) … and at 8:30 pm, trivia with Phil T at Talarico’s (4718 California SW), all ages until 10 pm.

SKYLARK OPEN MIC: Your turn at centerstage – 7:30 pm signups for West Seattle’s longest-running open mic. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

Something coming up that’s open to community participation/observation? Please send us info so we can add it to West Seattle’s only comprehensive event calendar! westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

Remembering Arlene H. Emel, 1938-2025

Family and friends are remembering Arlene Emel, and sharing this remembrance with the community:

Arlene Hazel (Harrington) Emel lost her battle with Lewy Body dementia on June 27, 2025.

Born June 29, 1938 at Fort Jay on Governor’s Island, New York, Arlene spent her childhood as an Army brat crisscrossing the country at least 3 times by train. After her family settled in Seattle, she attended Ballard High School, graduating in 1956.

In August 1959, Arlene married Harold Emel, which began a 66-year-long loving marriage that produced 4 children (Michele, Kathleen, Jessica, and Thomas). When those children were grown, Arlene and Harold adopted Jessica Nicole for a grand total of 5 children, followed by 4 grandchildren (Cory, Xavier, Haley, and Josh) and 3 great-grandchildren (Litha, Thomas, and Elodie).

Arlene and Harold lived in West Seattle from 1960-1978.

Arlene loved roller-skate dancing and even dabbled in roller derby. She spent 50 years in Girl Scouts and over 20 years as a foster parent along with her husband Harold. Arlene’s Catholic faith played a huge role in her life of service to family, friends, community and Church. Arlene’s service touched many lives and we are better for knowing her.

Eternal rest grant unto her soul and may perpetual light shine upon her.

In Arlene’s honor, please send donations to the Silver Sage Girl Scout Council: girlscouts-ssc.org

(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)

TRAFFIC, WEATHER, ROAD WORK, TRANSIT: Wednesday watch

6:02 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Wednesday, July 9, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Very different forecast today! Cloudy, likely showery, breezy, high in the upper 60s. Today’s sunrise was at 5:21 am; sunset will be at 9:07 pm.

TRANSIT TODAY

Metro busesRegular schedule 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 TaxiRegular West Seattle service; summer schedule, with later runs on Friday and Saturday nights, and on weeknights with Mariners home games (and certain special events).

ROAD WORK

-Again today, “potholing” work is planned for the Fauntleroy Way ferry-dock intersection, as previewed here.

-16th SW speed cushions have been installed near Cloverdale and near Trenton; watch for our story later today on more in the works elsewhere.

SUMMER FEST IS ALMOST HERE!

-The street closures for West Seattle Summer Fest start rolling out tomorrow (Thursday) afternoon (see that day’s timeline here), and from Thursday night through late Sunday night, California will be closed north (to Genesee) and south (to Edmunds) of SW Oregon, and SW Alaska will be closed between 44th on the west side and 42nd on the east side.

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!

CRIME WATCH FOLLOWUP: Woman arrested after West Seattle bank robbery, suspected in 9 holdups around the city (updated Wednesday)

11:21 PM: We’ve just learned that a suspect is in jail on suspicion of Monday’s West Seattle bank robbery and four other robberies. We requested followup information on the case this morning and when police sent it to us a short time ago, it included the information that a 24-year-old woman had been arrested, as well as report narrative from the holdup at WaFd Bank north of The Junction.

The report says the robber who held up the bank just after 4 pm Monday “entered the bank and approached (a worker who) was not initially at his teller desk, so he walked over to it as (the robber) followed. He stated that (the robber) then pulled out a … wallet …, opened it up to reveal a note stating that she had a gun, to not provide “prop” money, and to not call the police. (The robber) then pulled out a black handgun and placed it on the counter all while apologizing. (The employee) did not have any cash inside his drawer, so he called over his manager … to assist him…. (the robber) wanted her to open the vault and … asked that she go get her keys from her desk. (The robber) went with (the manager) to her desk and watched as she removed the key.”

Redactions make the narrative difficult to follow from there until “(the robber) then approached (a worker’s) desk holding the handgun low at her waist and he stated it appeared she was struggling to keep ahold of it. (The robber) then pulled up her sling bag and set the gun down on the desk. Once XXXX handed over the cash, (the robber) struggled to put it inside her sling bag because she already had cash inside. (The robber) placed the gun and the cash inside her bag and then left the bank in an unknown direction.”

The narrative provided to us does not say how police identified and tracked the suspect who they arrested, but says she was found “in the 4700 block of 20th Ave NE”; when searched, the report says, officers “located a pellet gun and cash from the robbery. (The suspect) was wearing the same clothing as seen in surveillance videos of the bank robbery.” According to the jail roster, she is being held for investigation of five robberies, with bail set at half a million dollars. We hope to find out more from prosecutors tomorrow.

ADDED 11 AM WEDNESDAY: And indeed we have. We have obtained the very long probable-cause document from the suspect’s bail hearing. Here’s what it boils down to:

This suspect was on police radar since a tip to CrimeStoppers in April. They say they didn’t have enough evidence to arrest her until this week’s West Seattle WaFd holdup.

It’s one of nine robberies around Seattle in which she is suspected, police say, dating back to June 28, 2024, a Wells Fargo on Queen Anne. The amount of money taken in the robberies is reported to be at least $13,000. The other robberies listed in the document:

*September 7, 2024 – US Bank in a north Seattle QFC

*October 31, 2024 – US Bank in north Seattle

*November 21, 2024 – KeyBank in north Seattle

*January 13, 2025 – the US Bank in West Seattle ($1,000 reportedly taken)

*March 18, 2025 – HomeStreet Bank on East Madison

*May 8, 2025 – WaFd Bank in South Seattle

*May 12, 2025 – US Bank in Magnolia

*This past Monday’s robbery in West Seattle

The documents go into much detail about how detectives compared clothing and accessories in video/photos from the robberies and from surveillance of the suspect once they knew her name and address, thanks to the CrimeStoppers tipster, who said the suspect boasted about the robberies and that she had been described in the FBI bulletin as a “serial” robber. The arrest on Monday happened because police were waiting at her U-District building, to which she returned about an hour after the West Seattle holdup, and the documents say she was in possession of various items linked to the robbery spree. The apparent gun shown on Monday – something not done in the previous robberies – was found and described by police as a “hyper-realistic airsoft gun.” They also say they found a “pink wallet with embroidered animals” that contained a piece of paper that could be construed as a holdup note.

The probable-cause documents are not the same as charging documents; she is not yet formally charged, and the deadline for “rush-filing” is later this week.

UPDATE: Another Westcrest Park fire

8:04 PM: Multiple texters are reporting another fire at Westcrest Park, again off 8th SW, again with fireworks blamed by neighbors, and one sent the photo above. Highland Park’s Engine 11 is logged to the call – this time categorized as “rubbish fire” – right now.

9:44 PM: Checking the log again, the call finally closed around 9 pm, after an hour and a quarter.

Seeing the smoke from the Olympic Peninsula?

(Photo sent by Ian)

Thanks for the tips. The plume of smoke to the west is very visible right now – so far as we can tell, this is the Bear Gulch Fire near Lake Cushman, burning across hundreds of acres. The fire is described as “human-caused” and was first reported on Sunday. You can see it on this wildfire dashboard.

ADDED: Comment discussion below suggests this might instead be from a newer fire.

CAMP SECOND CHANCE: Community Advisory Committee relaunches, gets newest stats

The Community Advisory Committee for West Seattle’s only sanctioned tiny-house encampment, Camp Second Chance (9701 Myers Way S.) has relaunched and is open to anyone interested, whether to be a committee member, or just to attend its meetings, currently held online. The latest happened Monday afternoon. The numbers are often the most interesting information that emerges, and this time, they were:

-69 tiny houses (more than most comparable “villages,” operator LIHI says, which tend to have about 40)
-4 units vacant
-81 people sheltered in them currently (1 had arrived just yesterday)
-33 people “abandoned” their units – typically after being there from a night to a week – most citing the location, that it’s not near services, and has deficient public transportation
-Housing found for 14 people so far this year, a “higher rate than last year” per CSC staff

Activities at CSC right now include preparing for Fire Marshal inspections – the units’ fire extinguishers have to be replaced each year. The nonprofit Weed Warriors has been leading removal of invasives, particularly blackberry vines, around the camp.

Major donation needs right now: Food. They get dinners from Operation Sack Lunch on weeknights, but that’s it; they’re working on other partnerships, but donated food would really help. Shoes and clothes too – here’s a list.

Also, CSC is in management transition – the site’s current manager is moving to another role with LIHI, and while seeking their replacement, they’re about to bring on a new case manager too.

If you’re interested in being on the CAC email list, either for notification of meetings or for possible CAC participatiohn, you can contact Marta at marta.kidane@lihi.org.

SIDE NOTE: It’s been almost exactly nine years since Camp Second Chance moved from a Tukwila church to Myers Way in July 2016, originally on an unsanctioned encampment, then eventually on city land for which it eventually was given permission.

WEST SEATTLE SUMMER FEST: Another way to go green

That’s the official map for West Seattle Summer Fest, this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (July 11-13), the peninsula’s biggest party of the year. Organizers are reminding you today that the push to keep the festival as green as possible – including zero-waste food and beverage service – also includes transportation. The map shows dedicated bicycle and e-scooter/e-bike/e-glider parking areas. The latter are in partnership with Lime, with a discount for rentals too; the former is in partnership with West Seattle Bike Connections. Get full details on the West Seattle Junction Association‘s website!

BIZNOTE FOLLOWUP: Wondering when Panda Express is opening in Westwood Village? Finally an official estimate

That’s a Panda Express-provided image of what the chain calls its “Panda Home” interior concept, and that’s what they say you’ll find when their Westwood Village location opens. The image was part of a reply we received from a company spokesperson today, after our latest inquiry about their opening timeline. It’s going on two years since we first reported Panda Express was going into the former Pet Pros space, and that in turn was 10 years after a different Westwood Village proposal that was ultimately scrapped. The company spokesperson tells us today, regarding when they’ll open, “We’re currently looking at the first week of August (pending any construction delays of course). Once open, this location will employ nearly 40 people and boast the latest Panda Home design. Inside, customers will find a distinctly American Chinese design that bridges the East and the West with red lanterns, a moon gate portal and vibrant Chinatown signs.” The spokesperson notes that this is one of three stores they’re opening in Western Washington in the next few months; the other two are in Silverdale and Lake Stevens. The nearest one to West Seattle is in Burien.

CONGRATULATIONS! West Seattle Grand Parade 2025 to honor Lou Cutler as Grand Marshal, Joanie and Dan Jacobs as Orville Rummel Trophy winners

(Lou Cutler with Pathfinder students during 2019 ‘Laps With Lou’)

Retired teacher and Make-A-Wish volunteer Lou Cutler says it’s the “honor of a lifetime” to be chosen Grand Marshal for this year’s West Seattle Grand Parade, coming up in just a week and a half, on Saturday, July 19th. Parade organizers have just officially announced the honorees who you’ll be able to cheer toward the start of the parade – Lou as Grand Marshal, and longtime local community advocates Joanie Jacobs and Dan Jacobs as winners of the Orville Rummel Trophy for Community Service. Here’s the announcement sent to us by the parade team:

The West Seattle Grand Parade is thrilled to announce its 2025 honorees — community champions whose dedication, heart, and service have made a lasting impact on our neighborhood and beyond.

Lou Cutler Named Grand Marshal

Longtime West Seattle educator and beloved Make-A-Wish volunteer Lou Cutler has been named the Grand Marshal of the 2025 West Seattle Grand Parade. Lou is a former physical education teacher at Pathfinder K-8, best known for creating “Laps with Lou” — an annual birthday tradition that became a powerful fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Alaska and Washington.

Since 2003, Lou has walked or run one lap for every year of his age, raising more than $100,000 to grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. (Editor’s note: The past two years, he’s walked variations of his tradition – here’s WSB coverage of his most-recent fundraiser-on-foot.) With more than 275 wishes granted as a volunteer, Lou’s commitment has touched hundreds of lives and inspired an entire community.

“It is the honor of a lifetime to be selected as Grand Marshal,” Lou shared. “For many years, my Pathfinder Unicycle team rode in this Parade — we always loved the energy of the crowd. Nothing beats the community spirit and pride that West Seattle residents display. Being Grand Marshal makes my millennium!”

Lou will lead the parade down California Avenue SW on Saturday, July 19th, 2025, beginning at 11 am from California Ave SW and SW Lander Street.

Orville Rummel Community Service Award: Dan and Joanie Jacobs

This year’s Orville Rummel Community Service Award honors Dan and Joanie Jacobs, a dynamic duo known for their lifelong dedication to community-building in West Seattle. Describing themselves as “neighborhood people at the core of our being,” the Jacobs are tireless volunteers, event organizers, and connectors.

From their early years supporting West Seattle Christian Church and launching the Ginomai artist space and West Seattle Art Walk, to their more recent roles with the Admiral Neighborhood Association, the Jacobs have helped shepherd countless neighborhood events including the AMP summer concert series, Admiral Block Party, Fourth of July Kids Parade, Halloween Trick-or-Treating, and Winter Wonderland. Their leadership, creativity, and compassion have shaped West Seattle’s civic and cultural identity for more than two decades.

Dan & Joanie Jacobs are fond of this quote by Mother Teresa: “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.”

Join us on Saturday, July 19th to celebrate all three of these extraordinary West Seattle leaders and to watch the 2025 West Seattle Grand Parade, which kicks off at 11:00 am from California Ave SW and SW Lander Street.

At last report, the parade had more than 70 entries. You can watch it from anywhere along California, southward to The Junction, where it ends at SW Edmunds.

Update – SEEN OFF WEST SEATTLE: US Coast Guard tall ship Eagle

12:10 PM: That’s a U.S. Coast Guard file photo of the Eagle, a tall ship the USCG uses for training. It’s on the way to visit the USCG station on the downtown waterfront, so you’ll see it in Elliott Bay later today (we just checked Vessel Finder, and it’s in the North Sound, about to turn southward along Whidbey Island, traveling at 11 knots right now so likely a few hours out).

P.S. Checking the WSB archives, we covered a visit by the Eagle in 2008.

3:18 PM: And that was the last time it visited here, according to this USCG news release which includes info about public tours the next two days. Meantime, VesselFinder shows that the Eagle is just passing West Point right now, so it should be in Elliott Bay soon.

4:42 PM: Thanks to Steven Rice for the photo as Eagle sailed into the bay:

FOLLOWUP: New speed cushions installed on 16th Avenue SW

If you travel 16th SW in the Cloverdale-to-Trenton vicinity, you’ll note the new speed cushions are now in place. One of them is close to the site of Sunday night’s 16th/Sullivan crash, but the installation already was planned (we’ve been trying to get official info from SDOT since a reader tip last Thursday) before that. Our photo is from a short time ago; WSB contributor Anne Higuera notes the crew was just packing up when she stopped for the photo. Our questions for SDOT include whether anywhere else in West Seattle is getting new speed cushions any time soon; we’ll add anything we find out. Meantime, if you see the telltale rectangular markings on your street, and/or get a notice, please let us know, as in most cases people need to know beyond those who live/work nearby.

Play Along in the Park, Fauntleroy Community Association, group run, more for your West Seattle Tuesday

July 8, 2025 10:21 am
|    Comments Off on Play Along in the Park, Fauntleroy Community Association, group run, more for your West Seattle Tuesday
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Photo by Ken Williford)

Here’s our (later than usual, apologies) list for your Tuesday, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

SUMMER FOOD: As reported here, there are multiple sites in West Seattle where kids can get breakfast, lunch, and/or snacks.

POSTCARDS4DEMOCRACY: You’re welcome to join this weekly advocacy gathering, until noon at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor). Sign up here before you go, if you’re a first-time participant.

HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK: Open every day, 11 am-8 pm. Free. (1100 SW Cloverdale)

COLMAN POOL: The outdoor salt-water pool at Lincoln Park is open every day, with sessions between noon and 7 pm. Fee.

WADING POOLS: Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW) and EC Hughes (2805 SW Holden) are open today, noon-7 pm. Free.

ROTARY CLUB OF WEST SEATTLE: Noon lunch at West Seattle Golf Course. (4470 35th SW).

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

CITY COUNCIL MEETING: 2 pm, weekly meeting, open to public comment in person or online. The agenda explains how to watch/participate.

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

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

PLAY ALONG IN THE PARK: First of four Tuesday nights in which you can play along with West Seattle Community Orchestras musicians at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW), or just watch/listen. Our preview has details.

FAUNTLEROY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION: Monthly board meeting, community members welcome, 6 pm at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse conference room near front door (9131 California SW).

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

MAKE POTTERY: Weekly 6:30-9 pm “girls’ night” at pottery studio The Clay Cauldron (5214 Delridge Way SW), sign up in advance to work on your project(s).

WS JUNCTION FC’S LAST HOME MATCH: 7 pm at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle), as previewed here.

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

BINGO X 2: Play free Tuesday night Belle of the Balls Bingo at The Skylark, 7 pm. (3803 Delridge Way SW) … Talarico’s Pizzeria also offers 8 pm bingo (4718 California SW).

TRIVIA X 4: Wondering where to play trivia in West Seattle Tuesday nights? Four options – The Beer Junction (4711 California SW), Sporcle Pub Quiz with David at 7 and 8 pm … 7 pm at Ounces (3803 Delridge Way SW), free and hosted by Beat the Geek Trivia; 7 pm at Zeeks Pizza West Seattle (6459 California SW), hosted by Geeks Who Drink; 7:10 pm at Admiral Pub. (2306 California SW).

If you are organizing an event, class, performance, gathering, etc., tell your West Seattle neighbors via our event calendar, from which we draw our daily lists too – just email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

SOCCER: Last West Seattle Junction FC home match of the season tonight

Before we get to what else is happening today/tonight, a reminder from West Seattle Junction FC owner Jessica Pierce – last chance this year to see them at home!

Come out to WS Junction FC’s final match of the season. It’s more than just a game – it’s a celebration of community, commitment, and the incredible support from every corner of West Seattle. Let’s pack the stands, make some noise, and remind our players why the Westside is the Bestside!

Location: Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex, 2801 SW Thistle St.

Kickoff: Tonight 7:00 PM sharp, gates open at 6:15

Admission: $15.00, 3 & under free. Tickets available online or at the gate.

Fan Appreciation Night – We’re celebrating YOU, the fans who’ve stood by us thru the highs and lows. Enjoy great food, live DJ, giveaways, 30% off all merch, and much more!

See you under the lights one last time in 2025!

TRAFFIC CAMS, WEATHER, TRANSIT, ROAD WORK: Tuesday info

6:03 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Tuesday, July 8, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Sunny, high in the low 80s (it hit 85 on Monday). Today’s sunrise was at 5:21 am; sunset will be at 9:07 pm.

TRANSIT TODAY

Metro busesRegular schedule 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 TaxiRegular West Seattle service; summer schedule, with later runs on Friday and Saturday nights, plus weeknights with Mariners home games (and certain special events).

ROAD WORK

-Today and tomorrow, “potholing” work is planned for the Fauntleroy Way intersection with the ferry dock, as previewed here.

-16th SW is set for speed-cushion installation near Cloverdale and near Trenton; the no-parking signs are in effect all week but the work had not yet started by end-of-day Monday. (9:26 am update – crews are there now.)

SUMMER FEST LATER THIS WEEK

-The street closures for West Seattle Summer Fest start rolling out Thursday afternoon (see that day’s timeline here), and from Thursday night through Sunday night, California will be closed north (to Genesee) and south (to Edmunds) of SW Oregon, and SW Alaska will be closed between 44th on the west side and 42nd on the east side.

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!

Music and memories as West Seattleite Rosa Facciuto celebrates 107th birthday, with advice for what not to do if you want longevity too

Story and photos by Hayden Yu Andersen
Reporting for West Seattle Blog

The lunch room at Brookdale West Seattle was alive with celebration today, as neighbors and friends alike gathered to celebrate resident Rosa Facciuto’s 107th birthday. Partygoers enjoyed lunch and sang along to “Moonglow,” “Sweet Caroline,” and a favorite of Rosa’s, “Hey Good Lookin’” by Hank Williams.

Rosa was born on July 7th, 1918, in Seattle. In her life, she’s seen two world wars, the space race, the civil-rights movement, as well as the rise of the telephone, and later the internet. Today was more than just a birthday celebration; it was a chance to reflect and appreciate the life she’s had so far, including jobs as an Alaska Airlines flight attendant and Seattle Police secretary.

“I’m on top of the world,” Rosa remarked while opening one of the many cards stacked in front of her. The party was in high spirits, and the community showed up with an outpouring of appreciation and support. Many of her friends took the time to write down comments, which were read at the party. “She’s an inspiration to all of us,” one friend wrote. “She is beautiful and intelligent,” snother friend wrote – “But she doesn’t have good eyesight.” Rosa interjected.

“Don’t sit at home and mope, get out and keep active. If you don’t have a job, volunteer.” Facciuto said, when asked if she had any advice for the younger generations. “Don’t abuse yourself either, you’ve got to take care of your body. And choose your friends well. You’ll be all right if you run around with the right people.”

Performing the music today was local musician and community member C.C. Engel. She’s played piano and sang at Rosa’s last three birthday celebrations, and says she’ll keep performing at them for as long as she can. Previously, Engel has worked across Seattle, from New Luck Toy to the Chelan Café. “As long as she’s here, I’ll be here,” Engel promised.

These days, Rosa keeps active as a member of Brookdale’s poetry club and goes to bingo three nights a week. She says she’s grateful for the people she has around her today. “I love everybody here, and I’ll never ever regret that I’ve been here this long.”

UPDATE: Fire on west edge of Westcrest Park

(WSB photos unless otherwise credited)

7:06 PM: Firefighters are at 8th SW/SW Trenton right now, working to put out a “brush fire” on the west edge of Westcrest Park. The smoke was visible for miles as we headed there to check it out. Flames charred the slope at the Trenton street end too, west of a park retaining wall, close to apartment buildings.

Fireworks? 911 callers were reporting “booms.” Police are there investigating, too.

(Reader photo)

8:02 PM: An hour and a half after the first SFD crew arrived, the last one just left. Thanks to D for photo we’ve added above, showing why the smoke was visible from afar -leaping flames at one point.

Man dies at Rotary Viewpoint Park

A nearby resident asked today about an SPD, SFD, and King County Medical Examiner’s Office response last night at Rotary Viewpoint Park (35th SW/SW Alaska). First SFD told us they had responded to a report of a person who had died before medics arrived. SPD said they had no details because officers were still drafting a report. Then the ME’s daily list of investigated deaths arrived, and this case was already on it. They list the 47-year-old man’s cause of death as an accidental overdose of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine. There’s no information about whether he had been living at the park, which as we’ve reported has been the site of encampments. According to the ME’s report, which comes out on regular business days, his was one of 11 overdose deaths in King County investigated in the past three days; seven were listed as occurring in residences (addresses are not listed in those cases), two in vehicles, one in a parking lot, and this one in a park.

WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Police search for bank robber

4:23 PM: If you’re noticing the police north of The Junction, they’re looking for a bank robber after a holdup was reported at the WaFd Bank in the 4100 block of California SW. A K-9 team is part of the search. The robber is described as female, Asian, 18-20 years old, light bandanna, light clothing, last seen eastbound on SW Dakota from the bank (which is at California/Dakota).

5:32 PM: No further updates and the search has downsized. If you have any information, the SPD incident # is 25-190224.

WEST SEATTLE SUMMER FEST: Farmers Market on the move

July 7, 2025 3:32 pm
|    Comments Off on WEST SEATTLE SUMMER FEST: Farmers Market on the move
 |   West Seattle Farmers' Market | West Seattle festivals | West Seattle news

Before the week gets busy, here’s our annual reminder that the West Seattle Farmers’ Market will NOT be in its usual place next Sunday, because pf West Seattle Summer Fest. It’ll be on California north of Oregon (the stretch you can see in our photo above, looking northwestward over the back of the “road closed” sign in place for yesterday’s mega-busy market). Regular time – 10 am-2 pm Sunday – and many of your favorite vendors, but one block north. (That stretch of street holds the main stage for the first two days of the festival, but that’ll be broken down and removed overnight after Saturday night’s shows; there’ll still be music on Sunday, but just on the West Side Stage, off SW Alaska west of California). Lots more festival info all week, and we look forward to seeing you at Summer Fest – brought to you by the West Seattle Junction Association (with community co-sponsors including WSB) – 1 pm-8 pm (music till 11) on Friday, 10 am-8 pm (music till 11) on Saturday, 10 am-5 pm (with the Farmers’ Market!) on Sunday.