­

West Seattle, Washington

04 Sunday

50℉

Spotlight Stories


  • Map

    GARAGE SALE DAY MAP: Here are the 5/10 sales!

  • Tide

    LOW-LOW TIDE: See what we saw onshore

  • Water polo

    WINNING SEASON: 2 ways to back this team

Celebration of life planned May 18 for Dawn Leverett, 1968-2025
May 4, 2025 10:53 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   Obituaries | West Seattle news

Friends, family, and others whose lives were touched by Dawn Leverett will gather May 18 to celebrate her life. Here’s the remembrance being shared with her community now:

Dawn Leverett, age 57, was released from her earthly burdens on May 3rd, following a courageous journey with Multiple System Atrophy (MSA). She was at home in West Seattle, surrounded by family, friends, and her beloved terrier, Milo.

Born in San Angelo, Texas, Dawn grew up in the town of Grand Prairie, where she was raised by a loving extended family that included her parents, stepparents, and maternal grandparents. Kind, adventurous, and deeply empathetic, Dawn formed lasting bonds early in life — especially with her cousins Carla and Cori, who became like sisters. A spirited and involved student, Dawn was a Girl Scout, pianist, dancer, and active member of her church youth group. In junior high, she received the DAR Citizenship Award and was elected student council president. In 1988, she earned the cherished title of Miss Grand Prairie.

Professionally, Dawn lived two vibrant careers. She spent 14 years at American Airlines as a flight attendant, instructor, and leader. She loved the pace and purpose of flying, especially working the front of the plane, “where you were busy the whole time.” She relished the opportunity to travel the world and form lifelong friendships. She developed the people skills, resilience, and grace under pressure that became hallmarks of her life, and she received many well-earned awards for her contributions. Dawn’s time at American shaped her deeply, and it was there she met several of her dearest friends, including her best friend of 35 years, Danny Perez.

After flying, Dawn transitioned into real estate, where she thrived as a respected and successful broker for over two decades, first with Windermere in the West Seattle Junction and ultimately at Ensemble. She cherished the rhythm and variation of the work: every day was a new day and a new opportunity. Her passion was fueled by the value she felt in her roles as both guide and protector. She took pride in helping people find the right home, in every sense of the word, and she loved that real estate allowed her to define her own version of success.

Dawn gave freely of her time, energy, and resources —not for recognition, but because generosity was simply part of who she was.

She engaged with the community through the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce, ArtsWest (where she was a longtime board member, board chair, and recipient of the Alhadeff-Consguard Volunteer Award), the Westside Professionals BNI Chapter (which she founded), and the Center for Active Living. She was also honored with the West Seattle Chamber Lifetime Achievement Award. Sunday afternoons were reserved for her Sit and Cackle social clutch.

Dawn lived with unmistakable style, deep integrity, and a demonstrated love for beauty, nature, and connection. Her travels took her all over the world and she delighted in visiting new places. In September, 18 friends joined her on a cruise to Alaska, leaving quite the impact on the small ship.

Life in the Pacific Northwest turned her into an outdoors enthusiast. She embraced cycling, golfing, scooting, running, paddleboarding, and exploring every corner of the region. Dawn savored good food and good company. She was famous for her dinner parties, Pride celebrations, and impeccable taste. Life, she often said, was too short to drink bad wine or bad coffee.

Dawn had many loves throughout her life, and she took commitment seriously. When she loved, she loved big — with her whole heart. Her capacity for connection was profound, and she brought intentionality and grace to every relationship she entered.

Dawn was loyal, quick-witted, and always there to support others through hard times. She had a gift for making people feel seen and accepted, and her sense of humor and compassion never left her — even in the most challenging stages of her illness. She still loved to laugh, play Skip-Bo, and maintain the perfect “buzz.”

And she never met a dog she didn’t like! Dawn had many of her own over the years, but Milo and Maddie held a special place in her heart. She once took selfies with 92 different dogs before deciding to stop — out of loyalty to Milo, who was the last and best of them all.

Dawn faced her MSA diagnosis with extraordinary courage. She was not interested in victimhood, and she never let the illness define her. Instead, she became even more intentional — turning anxiety into purpose, and limitation into clarity. Dawn never stopped worrying about the comfort of the people around her. She lived with elegance, presence, and joy, even when her body began to fail. She transformed the lives of those who loved her — not just in how she lived, but in how she let go.

She is survived by her parents, Jean Wilson Meyer (Jim Meyer) and Gary Leverett (Tanya Leverett); her extended family Mike Meyer (Nancy), Lisa Meyer, Lynda Leverett, June Leverett, Dan Carey, June and Glenn Zauber, Carla Brand (Barry), Cori Dossett; her chosen “framily” and Milo.

Dawn didn’t subscribe to that idea that things needed to be complicated to be special. She believed that life was best lived with a good book, a warm dog, and a full table.

In her final moments, she offered one salient piece of advice on living well:

“Be nice to each other.”

A Toast to a Life Well-Lived

You are invited to join us in a celebration of Dawn’s life and legacy on May 18th, 2025 at The Hall at Fauntleroy in West Seattle. Due to the magnitude of Dawn’s impact on her many communities, we kindly request that you indicate your intention to attend by confirming at this link: dawnleverett.com

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

Share This

WEST SEATTLE SUNDAY: Your 25 options!
May 4, 2025 6:07 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Fringecup, photographed by Rosalie Miller, who’s having a plant sale today – see below)

Here are options for your Sunday, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and previously published previews:

WESTIES RUN CLUB: Today’s Sunday Funday run leaves from Alki Coffee Co. (2742 Alki SW), 9 am.

MORNING MOVIE WITH WSHS BASEBALL: Step up to the plate for a special 10 am screening of “The Sandlot” at Admiral Theater (2343 California SW) to benefit West Seattle High School Baseball (current reigning state champions!).

AMERICAN MAH JONGG: Meet up with other players – all levels – 9:30-11:30 am at The Missing Piece. (35th/Roxbury)

CINCO DE MAYO BRUNCH FIESTA: La Chingona Taqueria (2940 SW Avalon Way; WSB sponsor) invites you to celebrate again today with 10 am-2 pm brunch featuring food, drinks, and live music.

VASHON ISLAND SPRING STUDIO TOUR: Visit artists’ studios around the island 10 am-5 pm again today, and next weekend! Tour organizers are sponsoring WSB right now to amplify the free tour. Details in our calendar listing!

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm, with spring produce (lots of greens! asparagus too) plus beverages, flowers, cheese, yogurt, fish, meat, prepared hot food, baked goods, nuts, dried peppers, garlic, candy, condiments, more. (California SW between SW Alaska and SW Oregon)

MASTER GARDENERS: While you’re at the market, look for Master Gardeners, ready to answer your questions! Sundays this spring and summer, they’re back at the market, 10 am-2 pm.

KINDIE WEST: Brian Vogan and His Good Buddies perform in today’s installment of the family-music concert series at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse (9131 California SW), 10:30 am.

FREE NIA CLASS: 10:30 am Sundays, first class free if you pre-register. At Inner Alchemy Sanctuary/Studio (3618 SW Alaska)

POP-UP PLANT SALE FUNDRAISER: 11 am-2 pm, Rosalie‘s selling a variety of plants, to benefit the West Seattle Food Bank. (4004 SW Stevens)

WEST SEATTLE BOAT SWAP, DAY 2: Shop for human-powered watercraft, 11 am-4 pm at Mountain to Sound Outfitters (3602 SW Alaska; WSB sponsor).

WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Need a tool to get your project going? Borrow it from the Tool Library, open 11 am-4 pm on the northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

WEST SEATTLE RESISTS: Sunday signholding in The Junction (California/Alaska), 11:30 am-1:30 pm.

CINCO DE MAYO WEEKEND AT MISSION: Noon-2 pm, Brunch & Beats with Patriff. Also, 20 percent of today’s proceeds go to the Admiral Neighborhood Association. (2325 California SW)

‘THE IDOLATRY OF WHITENESS’: Six-week class begins at Admiral Church (4320 SW Hill), noon-1:15 pm. Details in our calendar listing.

BE READY! Free “Ready Freddy Prep Party“ to get you going on the road to preparedness.12:45 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), walk-ins welcome.

POETRY POTLUCK: At West Seattle (Admiral) Library, 2-3 pm:

Join an informal gathering to listen to and read poetry aloud. Inspired by this year’s Seattle Reads selection “You Are Here,” select two or three favorite poems related to the natural world and share them out loud with the group. This is a feast of words, rather than food.

WELCOME ROAD WINERY: Enjoy your Sunday afternoon at this West Seattle tasting room (with a patio!) open 2-5 pm, kids and dogs welcome. (3804 California SW; WSB sponsor)

‘YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN’ AT CHIEF SEALTH: Your last chance to enjoy this student production! 2 pm curtain at Chief Sealth International HS (2600 SW Thistle). Ticket info is in our calendar listing.

CRIBBAGE AT WEST SEATTLE EAGLES: 2 pm, for advanced players. You don’t have to be an Eagles member to come play. More info in our calendar listing. (4426 California SW)

HAND-BUILD A MUG: Workshop at The Clay Cauldron (5214 Delridge Way SW), 2-4 pm, $50. “Create a mug and add color with slip.” Text Frances at 206-330-7027 to sign up or for more information.

LIVE MUSIC AT C & P: Musicians for the West Seattle Food Bank at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), 3-5 pm. Possibly the last of the series, as explained here.

‘ATHENA’ CLOSING: Final performance at ArtsWest (4711 California SW) for its production “Athena“; our calendar listing has play info plus the ticket link for today’s 3 pm performance.

DINING DEAD AT EASY STREET: Album-release show, 5 pm. (4559 California SW)

LIVE MUSIC AT THE ALLEY: End your weekend with Sunday night music provided by the Triangular Jazztet at The Alley (behind 4509 California SW) – 8-10 pm.

Are you planning, organizing, and/or publicizing something that should be on our community event calendar – one-time or recurring? Please email us the basic details – we*************@***il.com – thank you!

Share This

FOLLOWUP: Don Armeni Boat Ramp gets new signage as well as float fixes
May 3, 2025 7:33 pm
|      7 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle parks

Thanks to Stewart L. for the three photos of signs sighted at Don Armeni Boat Ramp shortly after its repaired floating docks reopened this week. The one above doesn’t seem to convey anything particularly new, but then there are these:

And these …

As for the docks, they’ve indeed fully reopened – we took these photos on Friday:

The floating docks were removed last November, pronounced unsafe because of damage just months after they had been installed in a years-in-the-works project

Share This

PHOTOS: White Center 5K returns after 6 years
May 3, 2025 5:16 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | White Center

West Seattle Blog/White Center Now photos by Dave Gershgorn

More than 150 runners and walkers were on the move this morning as part of the comeback edition of the White Center 5K, benefiting three nonprofits and returning after a pandemic-and-then-some hiatus. The participants – some costumed – started and finished at Steve Cox Memorial Park, traveling along White Center streets along the way:

Results are now browsable online; 42-year-old Joe Creighton was first finisher, chip time 17:59:

Rounding out the top ten finishers was 36-year-old Abby Polley, chip time 21:29:

Other finish-line sights included an entire family:

And more costumes:

Speaking of costumes, the DubSea Fish Sticks‘ mascot was there cheering finishers across the line:

Before the race, Tiltshift CrossFit from Top Hat led a warmup:

Race proceeds will benefit the White Center Food Bank, White Center Community Development Association, and the YES Foundation of White Center.

P.S. Another big benefit run/walk in our area is just two weeks away – the West Seattle 5K, presented by and benefiting the WSHS PTSA, is Sunday, May 18, on Alki; you can register here right now!

Share This

Free Comic Book Day big draw at West Seattle’s only comic-book store, Tails to Astonish
May 3, 2025 2:02 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

(WSB photos)

Though Nicole and Shaun Duff have been running West Seattle’s only comic-book store, Tails to Astonish, for almost four years, today brings a first – it’s the first nationwide Free Comic Book Day since they moved to 5633 California SW last June. They told us it’s going well – along with the freebies, they made dozens of sales in the first few hours!

Everybody who visits is welcome to one free comic book from the table shown in our photo above – and they have options for all ages. Spend at least $10 and you can get two more! If you’ve never been to Tails to Astonish, this is a great day to visit and see what they have to offer.

They also have a few classic video game and pinball machines! They’re open today until 5 pm.

Share This

ALSO TODAY: Visit your local fire station for Neighbor Day
May 3, 2025 12:25 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   Neighborhoods | West Seattle news

thechief(WSB file photo from a past Station 37 open house

Thanks for the tip! A caller reminds us this is Neighbor Day in Seattle, and that means you’re welcome to visit your local fire station during a short window in which they’re offering tours, provided everyone’s not out on a call. The window is 1-3 pm today. West Seattle’s neighborhood fire stations, south to north, are Station 37 (35th/Holden), Station 11 (16th/Holden), Station 32 (37th/Alaska), and Station 29 (2139 Ferry SW). West Seattle is also home to Station 36 alongside the north end of Delridge under the bridge, but that one hasn’t tended to open for tours because it’s harder to access.

Share This

WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Police rescue children
May 3, 2025 11:40 am
|      9 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Police have just rescued three children who were reportedly kidnapped in West Seattle by a man against whom their mom had a protection order. We were just writing about the search for them when police told dispatch they had tracked the man, and the mother’s vehicle, to a gas station in Boulevard Park; they safely recovered the children but the suspect took off running. Moments ago, they told dispatch they have taken him into custody. This started, police were told, when the woman’s car, with her three children inside – 1, 3, and 4 – inside, was stolen at California/Dakota; she told police the man broke a window, took her out of the car, and left with it, and the children. A short time ago, her vehicle was spotted at the aforementioned gas station, where the man had gotten out of the car, and then ran from police, who reportedly used a Taser while taking him into custody. Officers tell dispatch the kids are OK and their mom is being taken to them.

Share This

CONTINUING SUNDAY: West Seattle Boat Swap 2025
May 3, 2025 11:20 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

Ready to get out on the water and go paddling or rowing? Your next watercraft awaits you at this weekend’s West Seattle Boat Swap, just under way at Mountain to Sound Outfitters (3602 SW Alaska; WSB sponsor), whose proprietor Greg Whittaker sent the photo. He says, “Lotta great boats to get people out on Puget Sound.” You can shop the Boat Swap until 4 pm today and again 11 am-4 pm Sunday.

Share This

MEET THE MAP: Here’s where you’ll find the 570+ West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day sellers!
May 3, 2025 10:53 am
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   Community Garage Sale Day | West Seattle news

We are now just one week away from West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day 2025 – on Saturday, May 10 – and as promised, we have finished the map and sale list so you can preview who’s selling what, where. If you haven’t already found it via our site menu or main-page Spotlight Stories, here’s the link for the interactive online version, and here’s the link for the printable guide (37 pages this year!), with all 570+ sale listings in numerical order. Official sale hours are 9 am-3 pm on Saturday, but some sellers have chosen to start early and/or end late, while some have chosen to add extra days (Sunday is the most popular extra day). Throughout the week, we’ll be spotlighting some mini-lists – nonprofit benefits, for example – among other previews. WSCGSD, coordinated by WSB, celebrates its 20th anniversary this year – thanks to thousands of sellers and shoppers for making it a fun day of “person-to-person recycling”!

Share This

Orcas off West Seattle
May 3, 2025 8:49 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news

Thanks to Kersti Muul for the news that orcas are off West Seattle again today – most recently reported southbound off Lowman Beach.

Share This

WEST SEATTLE (and beyond) SATURDAY: 40 things to know about!
May 3, 2025 6:00 am
|      8 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Photo from Christy in Sunrise Heights, who wrote, “I don’t know which neighborhood kid left this, but I found it cute.”)

Spring Saturdays are full of fun – check out our list of West Seattle happenings – with guest appearances by White Center, Vashon Island, and Georgetown – mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

SATURDAY GROUP RUN: Meet at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) at 8 am for the free weekly group run.

WHITE CENTER 5K: Run/walk to benefit three White Center nonprofits, starting at 9 am at Steve Cox Memorial Park (1321 SW 102nd). Registration info here. No road closures planned; see the road map in our preview.

COMPOST GIVEAWAY: Bring your own shovel and container for up to half a yard of free compost at the Westcrest Park garden (9000 8th SW), 9 am-1 pm (or until it runs out) – more info here.

WEST SEATTLE GARDEN CLUB SALE: Need plants? The West Seattle Garden Club sale has plenty! 9 am-3 pm. (6353 50th SW)

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

SAMPLE OUTDOOR EDUCATION CLASS: The Bridge School invites families to Seahurst Park (1600 SW Seahurst Park Drive) at 9 am for this free introduction to outdoor education.

INTRODUCTORY WALK: First of two sequential weekly walking events – meeting at the same spot, 47th/Fauntleroy, first at 9:30 am for a flat-terrain 1-mile walk.

WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Then at 10 am, join others for the full weekly walk in Lincoln Park (also meet at 47th/Fauntleroy).

FREE COMIC BOOK DAY! It’s the first Free Comic Book Day since Tails to Astonish moved into their new location at 5633 California SW. Everybody gets at least one free comic book. The shop’s open 10 am-5 pm today.

CINCO DE MAYO BRUNCH FIESTA: La Chingona Taqueria (2940 SW Avalon Way; WSB sponsor) invites you to celebrate both days this weekend with 10 am-2 pm brunch featuring food, drinks, and live music.

WEST SEATTLE MERCANTILE GRAND OPENING: Four shops under one roof, with one big grand-opening party today, 10 am-5:30 pm. (3270 California SW)

MASTER GARDENERS: They’re out again in the community, ready to answer your questions! Saturdays this spring and summer, they’re at The Home Depot (7345 Delridge Way SW), 10 am-2 pm.

VASHON ISLAND SPRING STUDIO TOUR: Visit artists’ studios around the island 10 am-5 pm today, tomorrow, and next weekend! Tour organizers are sponsoring WSB right now to amplify the free tour. Details in our calendar listing!

MORNING MUSIC AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: 10:30 am-noon at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), Marco de Carvalho and Friends perform. Info about Marco’s music is here.

GRIEFSHARE: If you have lost someone close to you, this might help. The series continues today, 10:30 am, Grace Church (10323 28th SW).

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

FAMILY STORY TIME: 10:30 am at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), stories and songs for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.

WEST SEATTLE BOAT SWAP: Got human-powered watercraft to sell? And/or in the market for something new? This event is for you, 11 am-4 pm at Mountain to Sound Outfitters (3602 SW Alaska; WSB sponsor) – tomorrow too. Sellers’ dropoff is 9 am-11 am, but register here first.

FAMILY READING TIME: At Paper Boat Booksellers, 11 am family reading time.

STREET CLOSURE ALERT – WHITE CENTER BLOCK PARTY: The “Spring Fling” celebration presented by the White Center Business Alliance is set to take over 16th SW between Roxbury and 100th, noon-7 pm, with food, drink, and music.

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

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

POTTERINGS GRAND OPENING, DAY 2: Noon-5 pm on the east side of ActivSpace, visit the new creativity-celebrating space for free mini-workshops and more; here’s our Friday night coverage. (3400 Harbor SW)

POSTCARDS4DEMOCRACY: Along with the weekly gatherings, you’re invited to join in every month on the first Saturday, for long-distance advocacy, noon at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor).

‘YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN’ AFTERNOON PERFORMANCE First of two Saturday shows! 2 pm curtain at Chief Sealth International HS (2600 SW Thistle). Ticket info is in our calendar listing.

FREE FAMILY FUN TO CELEBRATE STEM: You’ll find two ways of celebrating STEM at this free family-fun(draising) event at Ounces (3809 Delridge Way SW), 3-6 pm – STEM activities, and a benefit for/celebration of Boren STEM K-8 school.

CELEBRATING WILLOW: 5-8 pm, celebrate the transition of Fleurt to Willow in The Junction’s retail scene! (4536 California SW)

VISCON CELLARS TASTING ROOM/WINE BAR: Tasting room open – wine by the glass or bottle – 1-6 pm at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor).

FREE MASSAGE: Walk into Nepenthe (9447 35th SW) 3-5 pm for short, specific free massage.

NOURISH & FLOURISH: This dinner/auction to support the West Seattle Food Bank is sold out! 6 pm at the 4105 Airport Way S. event space.

LIVE AT C & P COFFEE: 6-8 pm, the monthly unplugged Circle of Songs at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), all ages, no cover.

‘THE SHAPE OF THE NIGHT’: This “immersive experience” has two shows a night at the historic Georgetown Steam Plant (6605 1st Ave. S.), 6:30 and 8:30 pm. Synopsis and ticket info in our calendar listing.

MIKEY MOO LIVE AT EASY STREET: Vinyl-release celebration! 7 pm at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW), free, all ages.

LIVE AT KENYON HALL: Doors 7, show 7:30, Cyd Smith ft. Kristina Olsen at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW). All ages; tickets here.

LIVE AT THE SKYLARK: S. Trojan, Denny Way, Side Hustle perform, doors at 6, music at 7, all ages. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

‘YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN’ EVENING PERFORMANCE 7:30 pm curtain at Chief Sealth International HS (2600 SW Thistle). Ticket info is in our calendar listing.

‘ATHENA’ AT ARTSWEST: Final weekend continues, 7:30 pm at ArtsWest Playhouse (4711 California SW), for “Athena,” by Gracie Gardner – get tickets here.

REVELRY ROOM DJ: Saturday spinning starts at 9 pm – tonight it’s the Mikey Moo Afterparty at Revelry Room. (4547 California SW), following the Easy Street show.

CINCO DE MAYO WEEKEND DJ: The all-weekend celebration continues at Mission (2325 California SW) with a DJ spinning after the Sounders match.

KARAOKE AT TALARICO’S: Saturday night singing, 10 pm at Talarico’s Pizzeria. (4718 California SW)

Got a West Seattle event coming up? If community members are welcome, your event is welcome on our calendar! Please email info to we*************@***il.com – thank you!

Share This

UPDATE: Flipped-car crash on SW Dawson
May 3, 2025 3:08 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS breaking news

3:08 AM: It’s not a huge response because those in the vehicle are reported to have gotten out safely, but a “rollover” crash is reported in the 1900 block of SW Dawson [vicinity map], the precarious section of road where it bends along a ravine. No other details.

3:16 AM: SFD is already leaving the scene, after its crew reported finding a “partial rollover” and that no one was there to treat – “everyone left.”

3:42 AM: Officers just told dispatch they’re blocking both lanes of Dawson as they prepare to get the vehicle towed, and that there’s a fluid spill SDOT should clean up.

4:02 AM: The street has reopened both ways.

Share This

Sounds of the night (update: and day)
May 2, 2025 11:52 pm
|      11 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

From the “in case you wondered too” department:

-No, those weren’t gunshots in southwest West Seattle this past hour or so. Speeding cars’ exhaust.

-Tracker says the low, loud plane that just went by, same area, was a C-17A Globemaster, Air Force cargo jet from JBLM.

ADDED 11:42 AM SATURDAY: Another C-17A just flew over West Seattle, headed northeast.

Share This

WEST SEATTLE SCENE: Grand-opening night for Potterings
May 2, 2025 10:31 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

(WSB photo)

You might know Lora Radford from her years running Hotwire Coffee (when she was one of WSB’s original sponsors), or her years as executive director of the West Seattle Junction Association. Tonight she celebrated the grand opening of her latest West Seattle business – Potterings, headquartered in a 117-square-foot studio in ActivSpace (3400 Harbor Avenue SW, just north of the West Seattle Bridge’s northwest end). It’s a place where beginners can explore pottery, which is increasingly popular here on the peninsula, including the reopening of the Alki Bathhouse studio (where Lora has been teaching classes too). Among other things, Potterings offers memberships, as explained here. If you missed tonight’s grand-opening open house, you can stop by tomorrow (Saturday, May 3) 12-5 pm for mini-workshops or even just fact-finding. It’s on the ground floor of the main building’s east side.

Share This

WEST SEATTLE SCENE: HPIC revives First Fridays while awaiting rebuilding
May 2, 2025 8:06 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Highland Park | West Seattle news

(WSB photos unless otherwise credited)

Before the fire that gutted the Highland Park Improvement Club‘s historic building at 12th/Holden almost four years ago, the group hosted popular social events on the first Friday of most months – neighborhood gatherings with food, drinks, and music. Now, while HPIC prepares to rebuild, First Fridays are back! With the retained section of foundation safely fenced off, Highland Park’ers of all ages gathered on the site tonight to chat, sip, and snack:

Early in the evening, the sun shone:

(Photo courtesy Kay Kirkpatrick)

Then things got a little cloudy and chilly, so this helped minglers warm up:

DJ Evan played classics:

It was also a chance to celebrate new leadership for HPIC, which added new board members recently, though some longtime members continue their service too, like Kay Kirkpatrick, who tells WSB they’re hoping to have the next phase of pre-construction activity as soon as next month, including utility work. They’re still fundraising for the new building, too. Meantime, set your calendar for the next First Friday, on June 6th!

Share This

WEST SEATTLE FOOD BANK: Benefit dinner sold out, but benefit music series needs help
May 2, 2025 5:31 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   How to help | West Seattle news

News x 2 from the West Seattle Food Bank. First, we asked development director Robbin Peterson about Saturday night’s Nourish & Flourish dinner and auction at the 4105 event space – she tells us it’s sold out!

For everyone who does have a ticket and is wondering what to wear, the theme is spring festive community party – “Come as you blossom.” Wear what makes you happy, we’re just excited to see everyone!

It’s gearing up to be an amazing night, with fun and interesting auction items, amazing food from Tuxedos and Tennis Shoes, as well as some special farm-to-table treats from Mom’s Micro Garden.

Also this weekend, you can support WSFB by donating during a musical performance at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor) 3-5 pm Sunday – but the longrunning series’s future is in question. Robbin explains:

For those who are looking for a different way to support their neighbors; C & P Coffee’s Sunday Music for the West Seattle Food Bank, as organized by Steve Norris is ending for the season – and perhaps permanently. May 4th will be the last one until Steve can find someone to pass the torch to.

This week’s lineup is Judy Kaplan, Deb Seymour, and Cynthia Ashley doing songs you know, originals and wonderful group creations.

The show starts at 3:00 pm and as usual, cash and or nonperishable donations are appreciated.

WSFB is so grateful to Steve, all the musicians who’ve participated over the years, and C & P Coffee for hosting.

Share This

BIZNOTE: Grand opening Saturday for four-in-one West Seattle Mercantile
May 2, 2025 3:32 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

Tomorrow is grand opening day for four businesses that are now under roof: Alair, Dylan, Three Little Birds, and Kid Friendly Footwear, now co-housed as West Seattle Mercantile. Here’s what proprietor Jennifer Young is promising for the 10 am-5:30 pm party on Saturday:

Join us for:

Raffles
Gifts with Purchase
Treats from some beloved local companies
Face Painting
Giveaways
Tours of our event space + color wall

Bring the whole fam and help us kick off this exciting new chapter.

West Seattle Mercantile is at 3270 California SW.

Share This

IN THE JUNCTION: Flower baskets about to appear; you can help West Seattle Summer Fest get shadier
May 2, 2025 2:35 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   Gardening | How to help | West Seattle festivals | West Seattle news

Two notes from the West Seattle Junction Association:

(WSB file photo)

FLOWER BASKET TIME: The famous hanging baskets that adorn The Junction every spring/summer are almost here! WSJA tells WSB that installation is planned for Monday. Once again this year, WSJA – a nonprofit – helped cover the cost of the baskets by offering the opportunity to “adopt” them; look for plaques later this month to show who is sponsoring this year’s baskets. (WSB is participating again this year, this time dedicating our basket to the memory of co-founder Patrick Sand.) The baskets are grown by Van Wingerden Greenhouses in the North Sound, who’ve been tending them since December to get them ready for their debut! (SATURDAY UPDATE: WSJA executive director Chris Mackay just told us the installation date has moved back a week, to May 12.)

SUMMER FEST SHADE AND SEATING: West Seattle’s biggest party is a little more than two months away! West Seattle Summer Fest Eve starts it all off on July 10, and then the festival days are July 11-13. Every year, festivalgoers voice the wish for more seating and shade, so WSJA is crowdfunding to make that possible. Presenting the festival costs a big chunk of change, including permits and security, and it goes up every year, so adding these literally cool new features means this need for donations Go here to get the donation link.

Share This

WEEKEND PREVIEW: White Center 5K returns on Saturday
May 2, 2025 12:24 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Fun stuff to do | How to help | West Seattle news | White Center

(WSB file photo from one of the first WC5Ks)

One of this weekend’s biggest events will be the White Center 5K, starting from Steve Cox Memorial Park (1321 SW 102nd) at 9 tomorrow morning. That’s where runners and walkers will finish, too. It’s a benefit for three local nonprofits – White Center Food Bank, YES Foundation of White Center, and the White Center Community Development Association – and this is the first time the White Center 5K has been presented since the pre-pandemic 2019 5K. Costumes are encouraged, particularly superheroes. No road closures are expected; here’s the course:

Not registered yet? Here’s how!

Share This

ROAD/UTILITY WORK ALERT: What’s ahead for drivers, riders, walkers south of Alki Point
May 2, 2025 11:30 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

South of Alki Point, work affecting street and sidewalk users is about to get going, related to the Alki Standby Generator Project to increase power reliability for nearby wastewater facilities. The King County Wastewater Treatment Division has outlined what you will need to know – here are key excerpts from its bulletin:

Temporary lane change on Beach Drive SW between 63rd Avenue Southwest and Southwest Spokane Street begins as early as Monday, May 5

Crews will demolish and then replace three concrete panels on Beach Drive Southwest between 63rd Avenue Southwest and Southwest Spokane Street.

Vehicular and pedestrian traffic will be maintained … Several street parking spots on Beach Drive SW will be temporarily unavailable
WHEN: As early as Monday, May 5. Work will take place over approximately seven weekdays.

This work is necessary to better align the roadway with surrounding concrete panels.

Limited roadway access on Beach Drive Southwest between 63rd Avenue Southwest and 64th Avenue Southwest begins as early as Monday, May 5

Crews will begin work to relocate a waterline and excavate the roadway to install electrical conduit:

Waterline relocation
WHAT: Roadway digging and waterline relocation.

This work includes a temporary Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) water service shutoff for some nearby homes. SPU will notify specific homes affected by this service shutoff at least 48 hours in advance. Please contact SPU at (206) 684-3000 if you have questions.

Westbound Beach Drive Southwest will be closed at intersection with 64th Avenue Southwest.
-Pedestrian traffic will be maintained.
-Some street parking spots on Beach Drive Southwest and 64th Avenue Southwest near the work area will be temporarily unavailable.
WHEN: As early as Monday, May 5. Work will take place over approximately five weekdays. Some weekend work is possible.

Roadway excavation and electrical conduit install
WHAT: Roadway digging and temporary repaving.
Beach Drive Southwest will be closed between 63rd Avenue Southwest and 64th Avenue Southwest. Crews will direct local access as necessary for residences on this block. … Some street parking spots along Beach Drive Southwest along the work area will be temporarily unavailable.
WHEN: As early as Monday, May 12.

Work in this area will take place through approximately mid-July. Some weekend work is possible.
WHERE: Beach Drive Southwest between 63rd Avenue Southwest and 64th Avenue Southwest.

CHANGES FOR SIDEWALK USERS
Alternating sidewalk closures on Beach Drive Southwest between 63rd Avenue Southwest and 64th Avenue Southwest
There will be multiple periods of sidewalk closures associated with the roadwork noted above. As crews move around the work area, they will direct sidewalk users as necessary to either the north side or south side of Beach Drive Southwest.

Full details and aerial maps can be seen here. This is all in preparation for the generator project, which itself is still months away.

Share This

HPIC’s first ‘First Friday,’ Potterings grand opening, ‘Charlie Brown’ and ‘Athena,’ more for your West Seattle Friday
May 2, 2025 9:58 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

Can’t resist another sunset photo – that one from last night was sent by Ian. Now, here’s our Friday highlights list, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

STAY ‘N’ PLAY: 10 am-11:30 am open gym for little kids is back at Arbor Heights Community Church (4113 SW 102nd).

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

BABY STORY TIME: Noon at Delridge Library, free! (5423 Delridge Way SW)

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

SPORTS: Two high-school games/matches at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle): At 4 pm, West Seattle HS plays softball against Holy Names; at 4:30, Chief Sealth IHS boys’ soccer plays Cleveland.

ERIC CHURCH LISTENING EVENT: Easy Street Records (4559 California SW) is a hot place to hear new music first, and today it’s by Eric Church. Freebies while they last! 4 pm.

FIRST ‘FIRST FRIDAY’ AT HPIC: Highland Park Improvement Club is bringing back First Friday gatherings at its headquarters site, all summer long, starting tonight! 5:30-8:30 pm, hang out with your neighbors. (1116 SW Holden)

POTTERINGS GRAND OPENING: 6-8 pm, open house to celebrate the grand opening of this new place to explore creativity! Snacks, refreshments, prize drawing. (3400 Harbor SW)

OPEN MIC AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: 6-8 pm, open mic for all genres at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW). Free, all ages.

CAR SEAT HEADREST SIGNING AT EASY STREET: Meet the band at 7 pm Easy Street Records signing event! Purchase required – link in our calendar listing. (4559 California SW)

LIVE AT THE SKYLARK: Two West Seattle bands and a special guest! Not Dead Yet, North Beach Gritty, Fairground, doors 7 pm, show 8, at The Skylark. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

‘YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN’ Second night for the classic play at Chief Sealth International HS (2600 SW Thistle), 7:30 pm. Ticket info is in our calendar listing.

BELLS OF THE SOUND IN CONCERT: The handbell choir presents “Sounds of Nature,” 7:30 pm at Tibbetts United Methodist Church (3940 41st SW). Suggested donation $15/$10 students and seniors.

‘ATHENA’ AT ARTSWEST: Final weekend! Curtain time tonight is 7:30 pm at ArtsWest Playhouse (4711 California SW), for “Athena,” by Gracie Gardner – get tickets here.

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

MAKE IT LOUD: Skating to live music at Southgate Roller Rink (9646 17th SW), doors at 9 pm, $18 cover, $5 skates, 21+. Tonight: LipStitch & Tongues.

CINCO DE MAYO WEEKEND DJ: 10 pm-midnight late-night DJ as Cinco de Mayo weekend continues at Mission (2325 California SW).

If you have something to showcase on our event lists or calendar, please email what/when/where/etc. info to we*************@***il.com – thank you!

Share This

Remembering Don Stark, 1944-2025
May 2, 2025 9:00 am
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   Obituaries | West Seattle news

The family of Don Stark will gather privately today to remember him, and is sharing this with his community:

Don Stark, a Pacific Northwest pioneer in the field of public affairs and adviser to many successful civic, corporate and nonprofit endeavors, passed away Tuesday, April 29, 2025 of Acute Myeloid Leukemia. He was 81. Don is survived by his wife, five children, and nine grandchildren.

Donald Everett Stark was born in Seattle on January 22, 1944 to Everett and Mary Stark. Raised in the Bryant neighborhood, he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, graduated from Roosevelt High School, and earned a Bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Washington. He served in the U.S. Air Force and earned a Master’s in business from the University of Oklahoma.

Returning to Seattle, Don joined the Wes Uhlman administration, rising to City Budget Director. He next served as Deputy Mayor of Renton. In 1978, Don co-founded Gogerty Stark Marriott, one of the Northwest’s first and most respected public affairs consulting firms. In 2009 he co-founded another regional public affairs firm, Smith & Stark, which he continued until his passing.

Across his nearly half-century of consulting, Don advised many of the region’s top companies, non-profits, and civic causes. While known for his mastery of complex public opinion research, a hallmark of Don’s work was his ability to assemble coalitions of “unlikely allies.” For example, Don assembled the coalition of Eastern Washington agriculture and Western Washington labor and businesses that moved the state Legislature to approve funding for the SR99 tunnel that enabled the transformation of Seattle’s waterfront.

Giving back to others was a huge part of Don’s life, especially to increase opportunities for young people. He served as board chair of both the Foundation for Early Learning and Thrive Washington, and served as board chair of the Wallingford Boys and Girls Club, as well as on the board of the Boys and Girls Clubs of King County.

Don also served for more than 20 years on the board and executive committee of the Seattle Chamber of Commerce and was board chair of Leadership Tomorrow, the Seattle Chamber’s business leaders development program.

A long-time advocate for civil and human rights, Don served on the Pacific Northwest Advisory Board for the Anti-Defamation League and also chaired the board of Temple De Hirsch Sinai.

Don was sought after for advice and often mentored people coming into the profession of public affairs or civic life, or anyone who was lucky enough to know him. He also was a steady, supportive presence for many people working through recovery.

Don Stark was warm, friendly, compassionate, funny, optimistic, generous, spiritual, principled, athletic, and wise. Above all, Don knew joy as a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and whenever afloat on Puget Sound. Growing up, Don spent family summers on Hat Island, located between Everett and Whidbey Island, and it anchored him throughout his life.

An expert boatman and fisherman, Don and his wife Karen often motored to the San Juans or Desolation Sound. He took salmon fishing trips to Sitka or Vancouver Island with friends, but above all he loved building beach forts with his grandchildren or teaching them to crab and salmon fish, walking around the island, and making s’mores at the campfire.

Don also applied his expertise in service to his Hat Island neighbors. He served on the private island’s governing board and was its incoming president.

Don is survived by his wife Karen Hudesman Stark, son Robert Stark, daughters Anne Stark Nielsen (Clay), Jamie Wilsie (Alex), Andrea Lott (Jordan), Amanda Wolf (Ian Gillingham), and nine grandchildren: William Everett Nielsen, Henry Nielsen, Jacob Wilsie, Henry Wilsie, Shaina Starnicky, Zachary Starnicky, Audrey Lott, Sabrina Lott and Kai Gillingham King.

In lieu of flowers, Don’s family encourages donations to Temple De Hirsch Sinai or the Anti-Defamation League Pacific Northwest.

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

Share This

TRAFFIC, WEATHER, ROAD WORK, TRANSIT: May’s first Friday
May 2, 2025 6:02 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:02 AM: Good morning! It’s Friday, May 2, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Sunny and warm again today, high near 70, showers possible tonight. Today’s sunrise was at 5:49 am; sunset will be at 8:23 pm.

(Thursday sunset, photographed by Hana Alishio)

ROAD WORK

-Street work for the Alki Standby Generator Project could start as soon as Monday (May 5) on Beach Drive SW just south of 63rd – details and map here.

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

TRANSIT TODAY

Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle service; spring/summer schedule, with later-evening sailings Fridays (tonight!) and Saturdays.

Metro buses – Regular schedule.

Washington State Ferries – Regular service on the Triangle Route, with M/V Kittitas and M/V Cathlamet, plus M/V Salish is serving as the “bonus boat”. P.S. Next round of community meetings – online, systemwide – have been announced for later this month.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

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

Spokane Street Viaduct:

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!

Share This