West Seattle, Washington
21 Monday
6:02 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Friday, January 10, 2025.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
Today, rain returns, with a high in the upper 40s. Sunrise/sunset – 7:55 am and 4:39 pm.
TRANSIT
Metro buses – Regular schedule – except for this, which is expected to affect service for hours:
On Friday, January 10, a bus and transit vehicle memorial procession for Transit Operator Shawn Yim will be held in downtown Seattle. Expect service disruptions, delays, and canceled trips due to this event.
King County Metro, community members, riders, and transit agencies throughout the region will gather, to celebrate and remember Transit Operator Shawn Yim, who was killed in the line of duty on December 18.
Transit service, the Customer Information and the Lost & Found office services will be temporarily reduced while employees attend the memorial event.
We recommend riders who rely on transit services plan to travel early and allow additional travel time and consider alternatives in the event that your bus trip is temporarily not operating.
Sound Transit Link 1 Line and 2 Line services and Water Taxi routes are expected to operate regular schedules.
Real-time information in trip planning and transit tools, and transit alerts may not be accurate during this period.
We appreciate your understanding as the Metro family takes time to mourn our fallen friend and colleague.
According to this post, which includes a map, the procession starts at 10 am.
Water Taxi – As noted, regular schedule.
Washington State Ferries – From WSF:
the Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route will be on regular, two-boat service starting Friday afternoon through Monday.
Friday, Jan. 10: The 87-vehicle Tillikum will run as the third, unscheduled boat until 1:15 p.m. and then go out of service for U.S. Coast Guard-mandated maintenance, repairs, and inspections.
Saturday, Jan. 11 – Sunday, Jan 12: The route will be on regular, two-boat service.
Monday, Jan. 13: We expect to have a third, unscheduled vessel back on the route. We will send an update when the timing of this boat move is finalized.
Check here for last-minute changes.
ROAD WORK
*SDOT warns you may see work trucks parked on the high bridge while crews wrap up planned work inside – above, the bridge cam showed a truck on Tuesday morning; another one was in that spot on Wednesday.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Spokane Street Viaduct – This view usually looks westward, with eastbound lanes at left and westbound lanes at right:
Low Bridge – Looking west:
1st Avenue South Bridge:
Delridge cameras: Besides 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; West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras are on this WSB page.
See trouble 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!
Back on Tuesday night, we reported briefly on a driver going up onto a sidewalk in Upper Morgan and hitting a home’s streetfront stairs. We’ve learned only one thing about the crash since then: It took out the stairs’ railing (missing in the photo above, taken this morning). That left the home’s longtime resident unable to get to and from the sidewalk safely, explained the neighbors who decided to take action.
Above are Todd and Noah. Another neighbor texted us this morning (thank you!) that they would be working today to “weld a new handrail and repair other damage.” We went over and took the photo just as they were setting up, with plans to go back in the afternoon to get the “after” photo:
Todd and Noah were gone by then, but when we saw them this morning, they were low-key about their good deed – Todd said they’d been neighbors a long time, and just wanted to help.
Two West Seattle coyote sightings reported by readers, both in the Alki area:
TONIGHT: The photo and report were sent by Janna:
This guy trotted down 59th, hung a left on Hinds, and was hanging out on the Alki UCC lawn when I last saw him. I know they’re in Schmitz Park, but I haven’t seen any out in the Alki neighborhood before. Early, too – it was only 7 pm!
MONDAY NIGHT: Mary sent this quick video showing her dog’s reaction to a “pack” sighting near Alki Point:
I saw a pack of 3 across the street from my house as I was walking back to my house. Originally I thought another Husky was loose until I saw another one come up behind. They seemed well-fed and healthy and not too scared of me or my Husky. This was Monday night just before midnight off Admiral Way and 64th across from the baseball field.
As always, we want to note that we share coyote sightings for awareness, not alarm. They and we are best served by keeping a distance apart – flyers like this explain the best ways to encourage that.
By Aspen Anderson
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
34th District State House Rep. Emily Alvarado of West Seattle hosted a coffee hour this afternoon at C & P Coffee to outline priorities for the State Legislature session starting Monday and to answer constituents’ questions.
About 14 people attended the event, organized by Postcards 4 Democracy.
Alvarado will start the session in the House but may not finish it there, as she is a candidate to fill Sen. Joe Nguyễn’s State Senate seat following his move to lead the Commerce Department under incoming Gov. Bob Ferguson. She highlighted the opportunity presented by the Democratic majorities in the Legislature.
“We do have in Washington some of the strongest Democratic majorities that we have had in a long time … 30 Democrats in the Senate and 59 Democrats in the House,” she said. “We have an obligation and responsibility to play defense and also to play offense.”
Key priorities for the upcoming session, Alvarado said, include addressing the economy, cost of living, affordability, public safety and education. “My personal priority is making housing more affordable,” she said.
Alvarado introduced HB 1217, a bill designed to enhance housing stability by limiting rent and fee increases, requiring advance notice of changes, capping fees and deposits, creating a landlord resource center, authorizing tenant-lease terminations, ensuring parity between lease types, and enabling attorney general enforcement.
A constituent asked about rent increases, sharing that their rent had risen from $1,100 to $2,700 in 18 months. “Where can you turn to if you think you are getting gouged?” they asked.
“Right now you can’t turn to anyone because they’re doing what is absolutely legal,” she said. “I want us to create more housing. I want landlords to be able to run their business in a way that makes sense, and I think people deserve some reasonable protections on their side.”
Child care is also a top priority, Alvarado noted, citing that 63% of Washingtonians live in child-care deserts. She also called for increased funding for special education and said Washington’s schools are underfunded.
Alvarado said constituents are concerned about potential rollbacks on climate action, referencing the recent initiative that sought to repeal the Climate Commitment Act but did not pass.
“We’re going to continue to push, but we’ll have to play defense there,” she said, referencing the state’s response to climate change.
On immigration, Alvarado warned of “devastating impacts” if laws are not strengthened.
“There’s going to be a lot of conversations about how we make sure that we support immigrants who are part of our community, who are critical to our economy,” she said.
Reproductive rights will also require vigilance, she said, noting that amid the federal switch to the Trump Administration, strengthening Washington law will be a top priority.
“Washington has some of the strongest protections for abortion access and reproductive health care in the country,” Alvarado noted. “But honestly, if Medicaid funding is cut and changes are made at the federal level, the biggest challenge for people here is going to be around access.”
All these priorities are complicated by a $10 billion state budget deficit, Alvarado said, which will require difficult decisions in the coming session.
As for her future, the next step in the potential Senate appointment is a King County Democrats meeting with 34th District precinct-committee officers on January 19th; the King County Council‘s decision on the appointment could come that same week.
Postcards 4 Democracy, the sponsor of today’s event, meets weekly at C&P Coffee to write postcards and register voters. Check their schedule to attend a meeting.
5:21 PM: At venues from North Admiral to Morgan Junction, it’s West Seattle Art Walk night!
(First two WSB photos by Aspen Anderson)
Our first stop – the northernmost venue, West Seattle Grounds (2141 California SW), where members of The Potholes are providing the soundtrack for visitors to look at art by more than 50 West Seattle High School student artists, some of whom are there until 8 pm.
That’s one of tonight’s venues spotlighted on the Art Walk website; you can see a map with all tonight’s participants here. We’re making a few more stops – updates soon!
ADDED 5:53 PM: At Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor), photographer Ashley Harrison is making her West Seattle Art Walk debut:
We asked about her favorite photo(s) as a backdrop – she chose photos from a recent trip to Costa Rica, including colorful toucans. She’s there until 9 pm, and if you don’t get out tonight, Viscon Cellars usually keeps the same artist for a quarter, so her work will be there through March. (PS – If you do get there tonight, tasting fees are waived for Art Walk’ers.)
ADDED 6:30 PM: Watercolorist Gloria Della Vita is showing “Iconic West Seattle” scenes at Verity Credit Union (4505 California SW) until 8 pm. Her Alki Statue of Liberty painting is one of her favorites, she said:
Gloria told us she is “between websites” so you can inquire about her work by emailing gloriadellavitawatercolors@gmail.com.
As we first reported last month, 45th SW in front of Madison Middle School will become a “School Street” – closed to through traffic – 7 am-5 pm on school days starting Monday (January 13). Today, Madison principal Dr. Robert Gary Jr. sent the following reminder to Madison families, several of whom forwarded it to us with the suggestion that the wider community be reminded too:
Dear Madison Parents, and Guardians,
I hope this message finds you all well in the New Year. I am writing to you today to share more about the safety street closure on 45th Avenue SW between Hinds and Spokane that will begin next week. This street closure will reduce the likelihood of accidents and encourage alternative forms of transportation. As a school principal, the safety and well-being of our students are always my top priority, and I believe this closure will help foster a safer, healthier, and more sustainable environment for everyone in our community.
Traffic congestion around school zones is a major concern, particularly during the busy drop-off and pick-up times. Unfortunately, this heavy traffic can increase the likelihood of accidents, particularly involving pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users. By temporarily closing off certain streets during peak hours, we can reduce congestion and provide a safer, less stressful space for our students to walk, bike, or scooter to and from school. There have been too many “near misses” in crosswalks, illegal U-turns, and high-speed drivers around the school in recent months and we are grateful to the City of Seattle for taking this proactive step with us.
Additionally, we hope this will encourage families to explore alternative forms of transportation. Walking, biking, public transit, or carpooling can not only reduce traffic but also promote physical activity and environmental responsibility. These options offer great benefits to both the health of our students and the overall well-being of our community. Please remember we have the covered bicycle and scooter parking off the North parking lot for student and staff use. If driving is the only option for you, we encourage dropping students off at least one block from the school to alleviate congestion during this transition on neighboring streets. Any students or families needing ADA accessibility can be accommodated in the safety zone.
This safety street closure is not just about reducing risk; it’s about fostering a culture of safety, wellness, and sustainability. By taking proactive steps now, we can create a safer and more positive school environment for our children and set an example for other communities to follow.
I understand that change can sometimes be challenging, but I truly believe this is an important step toward a safer future for our students. I encourage you to support this initiative, and I am available to answer any questions or discuss any concerns you may have.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to making our school and community a better place.
Here’s the official SDOT flyer about the change. When we asked SDOT last month about the process for approving School Streets, they replied, “School Streets are requested by schools and reviewed and approved by SDOT as long as they meet the criteria (more detail on the criteria on the webpage).
Camp West in The Junction (4539 California SW) asked us to share this with you:
No Price Increases in 2025 – Increased cost of dining out is affecting everyone. We know that dining out should be enjoyable and affordable. That’s why we’re keeping our prices steady for at least the first part of the year. We’ll do our best to extend this as long as possible. This is our way of thanking you for your support and making sure you can continue to enjoy what makes Camp West special.
The 21+ restaurant/bar also wants you to know it’s expanded its non-alcoholic-beverage menu, with “craft beer and refreshing mocktails.”
2 PM: Officers have just told dispatch they’re blocking northbound Delridge at Kenyon because of a two-vehicle crash. Avoid the area for a while.
4 PM: No major injuries – the one SFD unit assigned to this was on scene for only four minutes before departing.
(WSB photo, basket arrival day, April 2024)
It’s always a sign that spring is here and summer’s approaching when the West Seattle Junction Association‘s flower baskets arrive. Again this year, they’re offering you the chance to “adopt” one – helping defray the costs of keeping them up and maintained throughout the warm months. 93 baskets are available, at $199 each, which includes plaques displaying your (or your business/organization’s) name and a message. You can sign up here while they last. (This year’s baskets are again coming from Van Wingerden Nursery, which WSJA executive director Chris Mackay reports “has already put the little flower seeds in starter soil to give them a head start.”)
Today we welcome one of our newest sponsors, Harbor Flats, the new apartment building at 3417 Harbor Avenue SW. New sponsors get the opportunity to tell you about themselves – so here’s the Harbor Flats story:
Nestled in the heart of West Seattle, Harbor Flats is the perfect place to call home. With modern amenities, thoughtfully designed spaces, and an unbeatable location, our boutique apartment community is ideal for those seeking comfort and convenience. Situated just steps from a scenic bike trail and only five minutes from Alki Beach, Harbor Flats combines the best of city living with the tranquility of the outdoors.
We offer a variety of layouts to fit your needs, including affordable one-bedroom units starting at $1,464 and spacious two-bedroom apartments starting at $2,019. For those who qualify, our MFTE program provides even more affordable options with income-restricted units designed to make high-quality living accessible to everyone. Each apartment features contemporary finishes, modern appliances, and plenty of natural light to make your space feel like home.
Life at Harbor Flats comes with a host of community perks. Enjoy easy access to the waterfront for kayaking, paddleboarding, or a leisurely stroll along Alki Beach. The nearby bike trail offers a great way to stay active or commute sustainably, and West Seattle’s vibrant shops, cafes, and restaurants are just minutes away. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Harbor Flats puts it all within reach.
Don’t miss your chance to live in one of Seattle’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Schedule a tour today to find your perfect home at Harbor Flats!
Thanks to Harbor Flats for sponsoring community-collaborative news on WSB. Is your business/organization interested in becoming a sponsor too? Please call 206-293-6302.
Biggest event on the schedule for the hours ahead is the first West Seattle Art Walk of the year – here again is the list of venues, both those showcasing art, and those with food/drink specials:
Here’s the updated preview of specific receptions and specials for tonight, and our preview of several highlights. Most – but not all! – start around 5 pm.
Also happening today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: The center reopens today ad is open Thursdays-Saturdays 10 am-3 pm, north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus.
CITY COUNCILMEMBER AT CHAMBER: As previewed last night (follow that link for RSVP info), City Councilmember Rob Saka speaks to the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce during their 11:30 am lunch meeting at West Seattle Golf Course (4470 35th SW).
STATE REPRESENTATIVE AT C&P: As noted in that same preview, State House Rep. Emily Alvarado will be at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor) for a coffee chat at 1 pm
WEST SEATTLE UKULELE PLAYERS: All levels welcome to this weekly 1 pm gathering. Email westseattleukuleleplayerswsup@gmail.com for info on where they’re playing today.
STRONG BODIES, STRONG BONES: 2:30 pm yoga class at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon).
HPCS FOOD-TRUCK VISIT: First of three events tonight at this venue – 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: A regular Thursday feature at HPCS, 5-7:30 pm – details here.
HIGHLAND PARK RUN CLUB: And then, run or walk the neighborhood with the Run Club, leaving from HPCS at 6:30 pm – info here.
VISCON CELLARS: The West Seattle winery’s cozy tasting room/wine bar is open 5-9 pm (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor). Stop in for wine by the glass or bottle – and art, as Viscon Cellars is an Art Walk venue!
MUSIC HISTORY: As previewed here (follow that link for RSVP info), this month’s Words, Writers, Southwest Stories online presentation tells the “Untold Story of Northwest Rock ‘n’ Roll,” starting at 6 pm.
WESTIES RUN CLUB: The 6 pm weekly run is now departing from Future Primitive on Alki (2536 Alki SW).
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fauntleroy – details in our calendar listing.
DORIS BROWN HERITAGE DOCUMENTARY: As previewed here, a West Seattle directory’s film “Last Lap,” about former longtime West Seattleite with an incredible running career Doris Brown Heritage, has its Seattle premiere at 7 pm tonight on Queen Anne, with Heritage herself scheduled to attend.
TRIVIA: 7 pm at Burger Planet (9614 14th SW).
DJ NIGHT: The weekend starts early at Revelry Room (4547 California SW), with DJ Supreme La Rock starting at 8 pm.
COMEDY: Jokes at The Junction comedy show, 8 pm at Great American Diner and Bar (4752 California SW) – go here for ticket(s)!
Planning an event that should be on our calendar and in our daily preview lists? Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
P,S. As pointed out by a commenter, today is the National Day of Mourning for former president Jimmy Carter, and most USPS services are suspended for the day, among other things.
It’s still prime time for school shoppers, so another wave of open houses is happening between now and the end of January. Tilden School (4105 California SW; WSB sponsor) is ready to welcome prospective families to visit this Saturday (January 11), 10 am-noon. Here’s what the independent K-5 school says they’re all about:
“Tilden offers an exceptional preparatory education in literacy, math, science, and the arts, ensuring students build a strong foundation for future success. With a student-to-teacher ratio below 9:1, we deeply understand each child’s skills and character, adapting experiences, content, and challenges to support their growth. We also provide a content-rich educational experience, with specialist instruction in subjects ranging from computer science to vocal music to art history. By blending the innate joy and curiosity of children with exceptional and modern teaching practices, we foster a community of learners who are excited about their education and well-prepared for a seamless transition to middle school and beyond.”
Questions before the event (or afterward)? Call 206-938-4628 or email info@tildenschool.org.
6:03 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Thursday, January 9, 2025.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
Today, the forecast again says “partly sunny,” with a high in the upper 40s. Sunrise/sunset – 7:55 am and 4:37 pm.
TRANSIT
Water Taxi – Regular schedule.
Washington State Ferries – 2-boat service on the Triangle Route with M/V Issaquah and M/V Cathlamet, plus M/V Tillikum as the “ghost boat.” Check here for last-minute changes.
Metro buses – Regular schedule. Here’s an alert for tomorrow:
On Friday, January 10, a bus and transit vehicle memorial procession for Transit Operator Shawn Yim will be held in downtown Seattle. Expect service disruptions, delays and canceled trips due to this event.
King County Metro, community members, riders and transit agencies throughout the region will gather, to celebrate and remember Transit Operator Shawn Yim, who was killed in the line of duty on December 18.
Transit service, the Customer Information and the Lost & Found office services will be temporarily reduced while employees attend the memorial event.
We recommend riders who rely on transit services plan to travel early and allow additional travel time and consider alternatives in the event that your bus trip is temporarily not operating.
Sound Transit Link 1 Line and 2 Line services and Water Taxi routes are expected to operate regular schedules.
Real-time information in trip planning and transit tools, and transit alerts may not be accurate during this period.
We appreciate your understanding as the Metro family takes time to mourn our fallen friend and colleague.
According to this post, which includes a map, the procession starts at 10 am Friday.
ROAD WORK
*SDOT warns you may see work trucks parked on the high bridge while crews wrap up planned work inside – above, the bridge cam showed a truck on Tuesday morning; another one was in that spot on Wednesday.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Spokane Street Viaduct – This view usually looks westward, with eastbound lanes at left and westbound lanes at right:
Low Bridge – Looking west:
1st Avenue South Bridge:
Delridge cameras: Besides 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; West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras are on this WSB page.
See trouble 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!
That red warning sign should be down now, because the King County Wastewater Treatment District says the water’s safe again in the Cove Park vicinity north of the Fauntleroy ferry dock. As we reported on Monday, an estimated 3,500 gallons of stormwater and sewage went into Puget Sound because of an “electrical issue” at the Barton Pump Station. Signs were posted by the beach to tell people to stay out of the water Now, with water testing showing no problems, the county has lifted the warnings. But the question remains, what went wrong? The pump station was upgraded a decade ago. KCWTD spokesperson Akiko Oda told WSB today that they “know there was a power sag” but are “still investigating how that affected the pump station.” The last notable overflow at the station, 101,000 gallons almost two years ago, was explained as an event where the station didn’t have a “complete” power outage, so the backup system wasn’t triggered
A UPS delivery driver who lives in West Seattle is recovering from injuries after getting attacked on the job.
(Photos from GoFundMe.com page)
This happened three weeks ago in Belltown; we just learned about it this week when we got a note about a crowdfunding campaign to cover some of his expenses.
The driver, Jason Yates, has lived in West Seattle for 15 years, Arbor Heights for the past 10. His partner Sara Currie says he spent more than four years delivering a West Seattle route. He’s worked for UPS for 17 years.
We requested the police narrative for the incident after hearing from Sara. The narrative says Jason told police he parked his UPS truck in an alley in the 300 block of Lenora to make deliveries. The attacker’s vehicle, a dark SUV, was behind him, and another vehicle pulled behind that one, “trapping” the attacker, who asked Jason to move his truck so he could get out of the alley. According to the report, Jason said he had to make a delivery first. The attacker then is reported to have thrown a glass bottle at Jason, and then pinned him against a garage gate; Jason pulled out his phone to try to get a photo of the attacker, who then punched him in the head several times. A witness who saw this from a nearby building also confirmed seeing the attacker get out of his vehicle and punch Jason repeatedly, before backing out to leave the alley. Someone nearby got his license-plate number and gave it to police, who wrote in the report that it checked to an address in Federal Way, but said nothing more about the investigation status.
Sara says Jason spent more than a week in the hospital, and has more treatment and therapy ahead for head and body injuries; the crowdfunding campaign is meant to help cover those expenses as well as lost wages since he can’t work, and any costs incurred in pursuing justice in the case.
Two local elected officials have public appearances in West Seattle on Thursday:
STATE HOUSE REP. EMILY ALVARADO: The second-term 34th District State House representative, currently hoping to be appointed to the State Senate seat that Joe Nguyễn is leaving to become Commerce Director, will be at C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor) at 1 pm Thursday. West Seattle’s Postcards4Democracy group is sponsoring this coffee chat as a look ahead to the State Legislature’s 2025 session, which starts next week, and asked us to let you know about Rep. Alvarado’s appearance.
CITY COUNCILMEMBER ROB SAKA: As he announced during this week’s council briefing meeting Monday afternoon, Councilmember Saka is speaking to the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce during their 11:30 am lunch meeting Thursday. It’s billed as a “State of District 1” speech, in the banquet room at the West Seattle Golf Course (4470 35th SW). If you’re a Chamber member, lunch is $25; for non-members, $35 – go here to register.
Not only did the sun make a grand appearance today, it exited in style, about half an hour ago. Thanks for the photos! Above is from Beth Jackson; below, from Carol Ann Joyce:
And this one’s from John-Michael Bennett III:
The peak splash of pink was just before 5 pm, though the official sunset time was 4:36 pm. (It’ll be 5 pm on January 25!)
This abandoned bike has been seen in upper Lincoln Park for at least three days.
That photo is from Mike, the fourth person to send us a photo. He also sent a wider view of where he saw it:
If you need more help in finding it – Mike sent these coordinates too.
(WSB file photo from last year)
Less than two weeks into the new year, with an extensive recruiting campaign continuing, the city has totaled up how Seattle Police staffing ended the year. A news release from Mayor Bruce Harrell‘s office says 84 officers were hired, and 83 officers left – the first year since 2019 that hires outnumbered departures. Here’s their chart for the past six years – note the number of deployable officers is up too:
(Corrected table added 4:05 pm after receiving from mayor’s office – adds ‘total number’ column)
The mayor’s office also says the number of applicants last year more than doubled from the year before – 4,115 compared to 1,998 in 2023.
We asked how many of the departures were retirements and how many were resignations. Mayoral spokesperson Callie Craighead replied, “In 2024 there were 36 retirements and 24 resignations. In 2023 there were 39 retirements and 24 resignations. So retirements were down slightly from 2023, and resignations remained consistent.”
Sent by Charleson Charlestown Hill:
I had my 2021 Subaru Crosstrek parked on street at my residence last night. With alarm on and Starlight security, it didn’t matter. Someone gained access and scattered CDs and papers from console and glove box. No damage.
This happened in the 3800 block of 54th SW.
Since tomorrow will be the second Thursday of the month, it brings 2025’s first West Seattle Art Walk.
That’s the list of venues where you’ll find art and/or food-and-drink specials on Art Walk nights this quarter (see a larger version here). Artist receptions are spotlighted here, including these four don’t-miss spots:
WEST SEATTLE HS @ WEST SEATTLE GROUNDS: The northernmost Art Walk stop, West Seattle Grounds (2141 California SW), is featuring more than 50 West Seattle High School students’ work on Thursday night, with “a diverse collection of paintings, photography, sculpture, ceramics, and mixed media works” – plus the WSHS-rooted band The Potholes. 5-8 pm.
ART WALK DEBUT PHOTOGRAPHER @ VISCON CELLARS: 5-9 pm, Ashley Harrison will be the featured artist at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor), her first time as an Art Walk participant. From the preview:
Ashley Harrison takes photos around the Puget Sound region. This show focuses on birds of the PNW, especially herons and hummingbirds, and of Costa Rica. Ashley’s overall work includes wildlife photos, event photos, and portraits of families and meaningful relationships.
If you visit Viscon on Art Walk night, tasting fees are waived.
DEPECHE MIKE @ EASY STREET RECORDS: Easy Street (4559 California SW) usually incorporates music into its monthly Art Walk offerings, and Depeche Mike is spinning vinyl this time around – an art form all its own:
Drop in to the shop/café 6-9 pm.
‘ICONIC WEST SEATTLE’: At Verity CU (4505 California SW), watercolor artist Gloria Carmignani-Breslin will be showing work including scenes featuring West Seattle icons (Alki Statue of Liberty, Bruun Idun the troll, among others). She’ll be there 5-8 pm.
Those are just a few possibilities for tomorrow night – check the list again before you go!
(WSB is a community co-sponsor of the West Seattle Art Walk.)
(Tuesday photo by J. Whitaker)
Here’s our list of what’s happening on your Wednesday, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
CLOTHING DONATION DRIVE: As previewed here, today is the second of two days you can take clothing donations – all ages/sizes – to Chief Sealth International High School‘s office until 4 pm for their collection to help families. (2600 SW Thistle)
TODDLER READING TIME AT PAPER BOAT: 10:30 am at Paper Boat Booksellers (6040 California SW).
REJUVENATE YOGA: Weekly class at Viva Arts, 1:30 pm. Drop-in. $20. (4421 Fauntleroy Way SW)
TODDLER STORY TIME AT SW LIBRARY: At Southwest Library, 3 pm, for kids ages 1-3. (9010 35th SW)
HOMEWORK HELP: Volunteer helpers are available 4-7:30 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).
FIX-IT WORKSHOP: Fix it, don’t toss 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). You can learn more about the WS Tool Library in our recent West Seattle Giving Spirit spotlight!
KIWANIS CLUB OF WEST SEATTLE: Visitors are always welcome at the Kiwanis dinner meeting, 6 pm at Great American Diner and Bar (4752 California SW), with a guest speaker talking about his work in Ukraine and elsewhere in Europe.
CRIBBAGE NIGHT: 6 pm at West Seattle Eagles (4426 California SW), monthly cribbage night, all welcome – all ages, membership NOT required. Coincides with the Eagles’ Taco Night, so you can buy tacos if interested.
FREE GROUP RUN: All year ’round! All runners, all levels, are welcome to join the weekly West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) group run – meet at the shop by 6:15 pm.
ALSO AT WS RUNNER – INFO NIGHT FOR ‘GOT FIT’: 6:30 pm at the shop, Info Night for free group-training program for intermediate-level runners who want to get ready for a half-marathon.
34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS: The group’s every-other-year reorganization meeting is online tonight at 6:30 pm – register here for the link. Agenda and candidates (so far) can be found here.
CLASSIC SF BOOK CLUB: Second meeting for this new book club, 6:30 pm at Delridge Library (5423 Delridge Way SW) – this month’s book is “Starship Troopers.”
LIVE MUSIC AT THE LOCOL: 6:30 pm. 21+. Rotating performer slate. (7902 35th SW)
YOGA/MEDITATION/GONG BATH: 7-8:30 pm at Inner Alchemy Sanctuary/Studio (3618 SW Alaska), $35, tickets here.
TRIVIA x 3: Three Wednesday trivia locations: Larry’s Tavern (3405 California SW) hosts Wednesday-night trivia starting at 7:30 pm … Quiz Night 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.
MUSIC BINGO X 2: Two places to play on Wednesdays! Play at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7 pm … Or, at Three 9 Lounge (39th/Oregon), you can play MINGO music bingo, hosted by Mingo Maniac, at 7:30 pm Wednesdays.
HIGH-SCHOOL BASKETBALL: Two girls’ varsity home games tonight. Chief Sealth IHS hosts Seattle Academy (2600 SW Thistle); West Seattle HS hosts Garfield (3000 California SW), both at 7:30 pm.
SKYLARK OPEN MIC: The mic is yours! 7:30 pm signups for West Seattle’s longest-running open mic. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
Planning an open house, reading, tour, fundraiser, sale, discussion, show, meeting, presentation, etc., that’s open to the community? Please send us info so we can add it to West Seattle’s only comprehensive event calendar! westseattleblog@gmail.com – and if it’s a holiday event, send it for the Holiday Guide – thank you!
Get help making dinner, while helping students! Dream Dinners West Seattle (longtime WSB sponsor) is again raising money for the Madison Middle School WEB program (Where Everybody Belongs), where 8th graders help new 6th graders “feel connected.” Here’s how it works:
Anyone participating in the fundraiser just needs to order a minimum of 3 dinners off our regular menu. All orders must be placed by Friday, January 24th and picked up by January 28th.
Orders can be placed at dreamdinners.com/westseattle. Anyone can order – current customers or new customers! They can place as many orders as they want. The most important thing is that anyone that orders needs to put MADWEB in the special instructions so we can keep track of money! We will donate 10% of all the sales with MADWEB on the order, up to $500.
Dream Dinners West Seattle’s headquarters is on the east side of outer Jefferson Square, at 41st/Alaska.
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