West Seattle, Washington
24 Tuesday
(Ferry in Saturday’s murk, photographed by Jerry Simmons)
Mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, here’s what’s happening today:
WESTIES RUN CLUB: Meet for today’s run at 9 am at Top Pot Doughnuts (4709 California SW).
HIGH TIDE: 12.8-foot “king tide” at 9:05 am.
WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: Open 10 am-2 pm, with winter produce (root vegetables! greens! cabbage!), plus beverages, flowers, cheese, fish, meat, prepared food, nuts, candy, condiments, more. (California SW between SW Alaska and SW Oregon)
CANDIDATE FORUM: 10 am online forum organized by the 34th District Democrats as part of the process to fill at least one legislative vacancy – link and participant info here.
WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Need a tool to make your project happen, or to assemble a holiday gift? Borrow it from the Tool Library, open 11 am-4 pm on the northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)
MUSICIANS FOR THE WEST SEATTLE FOOD BANK: Monthly music in support of the WSFB (bring cash and/or nonperishable food to donate), 3-5 pm at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), this month: Misha Yolleck and Michael Partington.
DRIFTWOOD’S 2ND ANNIVERSARY: As previewed here, Driftwood (2722 Alki SW) turns two today, and is celebrating with a 4-8 pm open house-style party – get your ticket(s) here.
ASTRA LUMINA: Celestially inspired light show on the grounds of the Seattle Chinese Garden at the north end of the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus, 5 pm and later admission times. Tickets and info here.
LIVE MUSIC AT THE ALLEY: Sunday night music with 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 – and/or in our Holiday Guide (which runs through New Year’s Day)? Please email us the basic details – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
(Photo by Rosalie Miller – sea star during recent nighttime low tide)
It won’t be a low-low tide but if you’d like to head out on a West Seattle beach with an environmental educator, Seattle Parks is offering the opportunity this Tuesday night (January 7) at Emma Schmitz Memorial Overlook. Their event is set for 7 to 9 pm – meet at Me-Kwa-Mooks (4430 Beach Drive SW), across the street. Registration is required in advance, and there’s a fee – here’s where to sign up.
7:01 PM: Police have told dispatch that SW Alaska is closed both ways at 36th SW because of a collision. A pedestrian is reported to be hurt, described as a head injury, hit by a vehicle estimated to have been going 20 mph, and SFD medics are on scene. Avoid the area for a while.
7:14 PM: The injured pedestrian will be taken to Harborview Medical Center.
10:46 PM: SFD tells WSB that the pedestrian is a 74-year-old man who was in serious condition when transported.
Three Junction-related biznotes tonight:
PAPER BOAT SETS THE DATE: One month ago, we first told you about Paper Boat Booksellers‘ plan to move to a new location, subleasing space that Windermere isn’t using on the north side of 4526 California SW. They’ve now announced that they’ll close January 22nd for a week-plus of moving, reopening in the new space – twice the size of their current north Morgan Junction space – in “early February.”
LADY JAYE ON VACATION: Thanks to Ian for the tip. It’s “winter break” time for Lady Jaye (4523 California SW), closed through January 14th.
HOMESTREET BANK SWITCHES SHOWCASES: A new month means a new local-business showcase at HomeStreet Bank (4022 SW Alaska; WSB sponsor). But first, an important task for the business featured at the West Seattle branch in December:
(WSB photo: Laura Schneider of Meeples between HomeStreet’s August Mears and Sharon Lingbloom)
Laura Schneider, proprietor of Meeples Games, visited HomeStreet this past week to draw the winner of a $100 gift card. Every business showcased at the bank hosts a prize drawing – all you have to do to enter is visit the branch, whether or not you’re a customer! The January local-business showcase features West Seattle Bowl (which, by the way, is hosting a tournament both days this weekend, so no daytime open play).
2:48 PM: Thanks to Chris Frankovich for the photo! That Matson cargo ship (Manulani) is one of the vessels that have sounded horns in the past hour-plus as they navigated through sailboats participating in today’s Duwamish Head Race, organized by the Three Tree Point Yacht Club. While Chris’s photo showed a view from west-facing southwest West Seattle, VesselFinder shows about 20 racers currently off Alki.
ADDED 4:36 PM: Thanks to David Hutchinson for this closeup view of one of the participating boats:
We’ve been reporting on the process of filling the State Senate seat that Sen. Joe Nguyễn will be leaving to become state Commerce Director this month, and the potential State House seat that would result if Rep. Emily Alvarado is appointed to that seat. As previously noted, the 34th District Democrats are having an online candidate forum Sunday morning (January 5th), 10 am, as part of the candidate-vetting process, and have just sent the list of qualified candidates who have come forward so far (we’ve noted the [updated] five who currently hold elected office):
34TH DISTRICT STATE SENATE
Emily Alvarado (current 34th District State House Rep., Position 1)
John “Skip” Crowley
STATE HOUSE, 34TH DISTRICT POSITION 1 (open if Rep. Alvarado is appointed to Senate)
Ben Carr
Brianna Thomas
(added 6:12 pm) Csenka Favorini-Csorba (current King Conservation District Board Supervisor)
Geoffrey Wukelic
Gina Topp (current Seattle School Board president, director from District 6)
John “Skip” Crowley
Sarah Moore (Burien City Councilmember)
Stephanie Tidholm (Highline School Board vice president)
34th DD chair Graham Murphy adds, “12 candidates initially shared their intent to be nominated. Three candidates subsequently removed themselves from the process. We could not verify the eligibility of one candidate, who did not return email and voicemail messages for additional information about their eligibility.”
Though tomorrow’s forum is primarily for 34th DD Precinct Committee Officers to get information before three potential finalists are nominated per vacancy (for which forum participation is not mandatory), the public is welcome to watch as capacity allows – here’s the link; here are the rules and questions. Then on January 19, the King County Democrats will meet to choose candidates for the King County Council to consider to fill the vacancy/vacancies (we’re working to get more information on that); that’s the deadline for possible candidates to express their interest. The county council’s decision is expected January 21.
Three events at which you can view or make art in the next six days:
RECEPTION TONIGHT: Painter Christine Sharp of C Sharp Art just sent word of a reception tonight, 5-7 pm, at Alki Arts (6030 California SW) for a new exhibition that’ll be up throughout the month.
MAKE AN EGG HOLDER: Monday night, 6-9 pm, WSB team member Lora Radford has a few spots open in her Potterings class to make a ceramic egg holder. It’s explained here. The class is at The Clay Cauldron (5214 Delridge Way SW) and you can register here.
ART WALK THURSDAY: Again this year, WSB is a community co-sponsor of the West Seattle Art Walk, so we’re reminding you today that the first Art Walk of the year is just a few days away – this month’s second Thursday is January 9th. You can start previewing venues (including those offering food and drink specials) via the map/list you’ll find here.
(Friday evening photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)
A semi-placid weekend has begun, just before everything gets back to normal post-holidays – here’s the list for today/tonight from our West Seattle Event Calendar:
SATURDAY GROUP RUN: Meet at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) at 8 am for the regular Saturday morning run.
HEAVILY MEDITATED: Free community meditation, 9 am at Inner Alchemy‘s sanctuary/studio (3618 SW Alaska)
MORNING MUSIC: 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.
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 READING TIME: Every Saturday at 11 am at Paper Boat Booksellers (6040 California SW).
LOG HOUSE MUSEUM OPEN: The home of West Seattle history is 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 also open to visitors noon-3 pm, as explained here. (2236 SW Orchard)
POSTCARDS 4 DEMOCRACY: While weekly Tuesday meetups continue, the group will also meet monthly on first Saturdays, noon, C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), for long-distance, handwritten advocacy.
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).
THE SEATTLE THAW: Join this friend-making group for special takeover event at Till Dawn, 5-7 pm – RSVP here. (5048 California SW)
ASTRA LUMINA: The illuminated walk at Seattle Chinese Garden on Puget Ridge continues. 5 pm and later entry times; ticket cost varies. (6000 16th SW)
LIVE AT THE SKYLARK: LiquorJacket, Chop Chop, Panic Fancy, doors 6 pm, music 7 pm, $10 cover. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
EVENING MUSIC AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: Jim Page, 6-8 pm at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor).
ALL-AGES OPEN MIC: 7-10 pm at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way)
REVELRY ROOM DJ: 9 pm, DJ Shonuph. (4547 California SW)
KARAOKE AT TALARICO’S: 10 pm start time for Saturday singing at Talarico’s Pizzeria. (4718 California SW)
West Seattle event coming up? If the community’s welcome, your event is welcome to a spot on our calendar! Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
10:37 PM: SFD and SPD are headed for what’s been dispatched as a reported “four or five vehicle” crash on the westbound West Seattle Bridge near the Delridge exit, with one car “rolled over” and possibly on fire. Updates to come.
10:43 PM: Responders are arriving and telling dispatch this is closer to the Fauntleroy end. They’re also going to block westbound traffic until the fire is out, diverting drivers onto the Delridge exit. And they’re describing the burning car as on its side rather than totally flipped.
10:52 PM: Police now tell dispatch they’re not able to divert traffic off at Delridge, but hope to reopen 1 westbound lane past the crash scene in 10 minutes or so, “once SFD clears.”
11:09 PM: Just added a reader-texted photo (thank you!). The texter also says it was a one-car collision, with the other vehicles initially reported as involved actually having stopped to help. Meantime, firefighters have just told dispatch that the fire is out and one lane will, as promised, reopen momentarily.
11:36 PM: There may be another temporary delay in the area as the center barriers have to be reset after getting knocked out of alignment in the crash. Meantime, this video of what the car fire looked like from the north end of Delridge was posted by Cami MacNamara:
Took this video leaving Skylark tonight, Tracy. pic.twitter.com/Ns6pZPotBF
— Cami MacNamara (@WebCami) January 4, 2025
No injuries were reported.
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
More than a year after we first told you about the Washington State Black Legacy Institute moving into the city-landmark former church/events venue at 2656 42nd SW, they’ve bought the building and are ramping up its public accessibility.
They’re planning a February 1st ribboncutting to launch the Institute’s next big event – an art exhibit for Black History Month.
First, about the purchase: On behalf of WSBLI, Urban Black Community Development bought the property from 20+-year owner Dahli Strayer a little over a month ago, for $2.75 million. Strayer had bought it in 2003, not long after its remaining Christian Science congregation merged with others in the area; in 2009, it became a city landmark, and it was operated as an event venue for some years after that.
“We have an interesting symbiosis (with the purchasing entity),” explains WSBLI curator Roger Evans. “The Seattle Griot Project is reimbursing them as a joint partner – we have a mortgage,” which he says WSBLI hopes to pay off within a year, if fundraising goes well.
On the front burner, though, “lots of programming” – starting in earnest with next month’s art exhibit, in the building’s basement.
The displays will include historical portraits and other artifacts from other history-focused groups and organizations, highlighting regional figures from music, churches, even the Black Masonic Order. Along with the exhibit at the WSBLI’s Admiral building, they also will have an exhibit on the road.
Preparing for this, WSBLI has new assistance from a group of interns who’ve been working there for more than two months, working on digitizing many of the historical materials so they’ll be available beyond in-person viewin. Education overall is a major mission of the institute, says Evans, who notes they’re doing a lot of virtual-reality work so that people can experience interviews “like you’re sitting right there with people – an eyewitness, not just watching video – you learn something new when you’re tuned into body language,” for example. VR assistance includes a Tacoma-based organization called Black Muse that’s provided some of the interns working at WSBLI. In addition to digitizing, they’re also “helping me streamline how folks engage with the headsets, how we can make these interfaces work better.”
That’s all going on behind the scenes. Otherwise, Evans says, they’ve received a warm welcome from the neighborhood – “lots of people come by to (offer) support.” Up until now, they’ve been open “basically by appointment,” but the February art exhibit will be the first time they’ve been open regular hours “so that people can be in the space” with staffing. Support from 4Culture and the Seattle Office of Arts and Culture is assisting with this. You might recall WSBLI also had a major event a year ago, the Business Festival During Kwanzaa.
Black business history comprises a lot of the material with which WSBLI is working, but not all. Evans says that in addition to the Tacoma directory he told us about last year, they’ve found others from the early 20th century, from California and Texas. Delilah Beasley chronicled much of the history. Evans recounts a 1919 book in which she “talks about Black Americans who served in the Spanish-American War … during this framework in time, Black communities were trying to create some kind of historic structure, to preserve history …” So they’ve found “great representations of what was going on during the early 1900s – we’re finding consistencies that give us an idea there was a sophistication when people establish community – once people create a community they establish a church and then a Masonic Order for business sense and some camaraderie among the men.” That was the case with a historical figure spotlighted at WSBLI, James Sheppardson, who “brought miners into Roslyn (WA), then with those 50 minors established Masons. Then William Grose came into Seattle, (and) established the Masons three years later – they had a lodge in Seattle and started to create the structure for the communities.”
Speaking of structure, WSBLI is part of a “three-tier alliance” with organizations tied to Kitsap and Pierce Counties: “We’re going to assist them in digitizing their collections too,” and they’re loaning archival materials to WSBLI.
The institute, meantime, continues working on its collection of banners telling historical figures’ stories – “we’re building toward having 21 of them; we have 15 now.” They plan to take some of these materials to schools this year. The digitizing and VR work feeds into that as well: “We’re taking it really seriously,” Evans stresses. “In February, we’ll have a prototype of our VR presentation,” a 360-degree view where you could read old books or watch old videos – “a memory attic,” for memories already collected as part of The Griot Project. “The fourth component will be a game, tentatively A Visit to Mama B’s, where an AI-influenced avatar will talk about … stuff that’ll be historically relevant to our community. … I want this thing to be not limited so much to the building – we’re open to share with the whole planet as much as possible.” He muses that “although (the new headquarters) is an old building,” they’ll be showcasing historical materials in “the most advanced ways.”
That “old building” does need some updates for which they’ll be fundraising too, Evans notes: a new roof, interior accessibility (the ex-church has rooms on multiple levels requiring stepping up and stepping down), landscape tidying, and a security system. “Our primary mission is to be part of the community and contribute something to the community, maybe even to the whole Northwest … we’re figuring out what’s going to work for us,” and that, he believes, will help them in grant-writing, as they explain their mission – “not stuffy,” he smiles.
In addition to the February art for Black History Month, WSBLI is planning a film festival for Juneteenth. “We haven’t figured out yet what it’s going to look like … We’re trying different things and they’re blessing us, which gives us opportunities to have the young people come into the space. A lot of them are supercharged, because they never heard of the (history), until now.”
They plan to have the building open six days a week starting with the art exhibit’s opening day. Here’s the formal announcement of the event that will kick it off:
The Washington State Black Legacy Institute (WSBLI) proudly announces the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony & Black History Art Exhibition and Business Festival, a day-long celebration of culture, creativity, and community empowerment. The event will occur on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at the Washington State Black Legacy Institute, 2656 42nd Ave SW, and is open to the public.
The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony & Black History Art Exhibition and Business Festival is more than an event — it’s a celebration of the past, present, and future. The new WSBLI space symbolizes a commitment to cultural preservation, community empowerment, and economic development. By joining us, attendees can take part in meaningful conversations, celebrate Black excellence, and contribute to a shared vision for a thriving and inclusive future.
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: This momentous occasion marks the grand opening of WSBLI’s new space, designed to serve as a community hub for fostering education, dialogue, and inclusivity. Local dignitaries and WSBLI leadership will be present to commemorate the opening.
Black History Art Exhibition: Immerse yourself in the stories of resilience, heritage, and innovation as told through the works of talented Black artists. This curated exhibition promises to inspire and educate attendees of all ages.
Meet & Greet: Connect with local community leaders and members, explore a vibrant marketplace, and participate in interactive workshops. This festival is an excellent opportunity to support entrepreneurs and discover valuable community resources.
The event is planned for 11 am-2:30 pm on Saturday, February 1.
(‘Live’ photo from WSF dock cam)
3:51 PM: There’s a chance of more traffic backups awaiting the ferry at Fauntleroy tonight because of a temporary downsize in vessels. Here’s the Washington State Ferries announcement:
For Friday, January 3, the 87-car Tillikum will replace the 124-car Issaquah as the #1 vessel beginning with the 4:45 p.m. departure from Vashon to Fauntleroy. Later in the evening, (10:05 pm), the 124-car Cathlamet will continue in service to maintain a larger vessel on the route.
We’re checking on why M/V Issaquah is going out of Triangle Route service.
4:08 PM: WSF spokesperson Dana Warr tells WSB, “Repairs. The davit which helps raise and lower the rescue boat needs repairs. This is a USCG requirement.”
4:15 PM: And now word is in from King County Metro that Vashon’s foot ferry is out of service for the rest of today/tonight:
The Vashon Island Water Taxi is not operating tonight due to mechanical problems.
Riders can use the King County Metro RapidRide C Line – which connects downtown Seattle – close to the Pier 50 passenger-only facility located at Alaskan Way and Columbia Street to West Seattle and the Washington State Ferry Fauntleroy Terminal, which serves Vashon Island.
Affected trips to Vashon:
to Vashon scheduled at 4:30 PM from Vashon service at Pier 50 (SB)
to Vashon scheduled at 5:30 PM from Vashon service at Pier 50 (SB)
to Vashon scheduled at 6:30 PM from Vashon service at Pier 50 (SB)Affected trips to Seattle:
to Seattle scheduled at 4:58 PM from Vashon Water Taxi Terminal (SB)
to Seattle scheduled at 5:58 PM from Vashon Water Taxi Terminal (SB)
to Seattle scheduled at 6:58 PM from Vashon Water Taxi Terminal (SB)
(SDOT camera image: Trucks lined up for West Seattle low bridge on Dec. 17)
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
If you follow the Northwest Seaport Alliance‘s frequently updated ship-call schedule, you might have noticed a change: No cargo calls listed at Terminal 30 on the south downtown waterfront.
We received tips about the then-impending change after the topic of cargo-truck traffic came up last month, but hadn’t confirmed it until today.
NWSA spokesperson Melanie Stambaugh confirms to WSB that T-30 tenant SSA Marine “did announce toward the end of 2024 that they would be suspending operations at Terminal 30 due to their concern over increasingly unproven, over restrictive and costly water quality regulations. The existing cargo services will remain in the Seattle Harbor and be shifted to Terminal 18 and Terminal 5 for the foreseeable future.”
For T-5, for example, that means more ships and more shipping lines – the calls at both berths (the south berth opened last spring) had been mostly MSC, but now the schedule includes others, such as COSCO and OOCL. And Stambaugh says that as of this week, terminal operations have increased from four days a week to five days a week:
While the NWSA and SSA remain in disagreement over the respective contractual and legal obligations regarding Terminal 30, the two parties are entering into a short-term (approximately two month) agreement aimed at increasing the efficiency of North Harbor operations at Terminal 5 and Terminal 18. This short period will allow time to explore operational alternatives that will support the future success of SSA in Seattle while appropriately compensating the NWSA and ensuring the NWSA’s existing customer base continues to be well served.
The five-day per week gate operations should assist in reducing traffic impacts and began on the first of this month.
Though the schedule might change again before then, it currently shows both T-5 berths occupied next Tuesday and Wednesday, for example.
In the meantime, Stambaugh adds, “Terminal 30 remains functional and available for business. The Northwest Seaport Alliance is exploring options for continued cargo use at the terminal.” Back in the early ’00s, T-30 was a cruise-ship terminal.
We have a request out to SSA Marine for comment, looking for more information on why they chose to suspend cargo operations at T-30, and will add anything we find out.
(WSB file photo)
One month after the announcement at the Fauntleroy YMCA “town hall” update (WSB coverage here), the expanded schedule has launched. Branch executive Cleveland King confirms that the Fauntleroy Y (co-housed with Fauntleroy UCC at 9140 California SW) now has this schedule:
Monday-Saturday 8 am – 12 noon
Monday -Thursday 4 pm-8 pm
Closed on Sunday
As also announced at last month’s town hall, the Fauntleroy branch is expanding programming too.
(Photo by Jerry Simmons, who says this is a rarely seen Summer Tanager)
Here’s what’s happening and NOT happening today/tonight, as holiday closures wrap up, from the West Seattle Event Calendar:
GIVE BLOOD: Bloodworks Northwest is popping up again at the West Seattle LDS Church (4001 44th SW), with appointments from now through 3:25 pm, at last check – go here.
DUWAMISH TRIBE LONGHOUSE AND CULTURAL CENTER: Reopening to visitors today after holiday closure, 10 am-5 pm. (4705 W. Marginal Way SW)
SSC GARDEN CENTER: Closed until next Thursday.
LOG HOUSE MUSEUM: Visit the home of West Seattle’s history to see what’s new as well as what’s old, noon-4 pm. (61st SW & SW Stevens)
QI GONG AT VIVA ARTS: 12:15 pm-12:45 pm Fridays. More info in our calendar listing – check with venue on today’s status. (4421 Fauntleroy Way SW)
VISCON CELLARS: The chilly season’s just right for the warm ambience of this tasting room/wine bar, open for wine by the glass or bottle – 5-9 pm – at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor).
AT THE SPOT: Fridays are Live Artist Showcase nights at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way), 7-10 pm.
REVELRY ROOM DJ: 9 pm, DJ Ryan Fresh tonight! (4547 California SW)
MAKE IT LOUD: Skating to live music at Southgate Roller Rink (9646 17th SW) returns next Friday.
Are we missing anything? If you have something else to add to our event lists and calendar, please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
(2023 photo courtesy FIRST Robotics)
Tomorrow starts the 2025 “build” season for Skunk Works Robotics, a regional club (shown above when they went to the world championships in 2023). They’re looking for support – here’s the explanation:
Looking for a way to give back to our community this holiday season? Skunk Works Robotics, a local FIRST Robotics team comprised of students in grades 8-12 from the Burien and West Seattle communities, is asking for help in raising funds for this season’s robot-build season that starts January 4. The team is currently running a fundraising campaign that is being matched by a very generous supporter up to $5,000, and although they have raised over $4,000, they have extended their goal deadline and need our help in getting to the $5,000 mark by January 15. This match is especially critical, as they have come up against unexpected and unbudgeted monthly building rental costs starting in January. These unexpected costs could hinder their ability to provide scholarships and fully fund their build and travel season, which involves designing and building a 125 lb. competition robot in 8 weeks, and traveling to two local competitions, the regional competition in Cheney, WA, and hopefully with your support, the FIRST Robotics Worlds competition in Houston, Texas, which they last attended in 2023.
Skunk Works Robotics is a 4-H community team and has served Highline and Seattle students for over 18 years. The team’s volunteer coaches and mentors, some of whom have been with the team since its inception in 2006, provide an invaluable, hands-on STEM education to any local student, regardless of financial situation, and have helped the team boast a 100% college acceptance rate and access to successful careers in STEM fields.
You can learn more at their website https://www.skunkworks1983.com/. Donations can be made online at their Donate page or by mailing a check made out to Skunk Works Robotics Booster Club, P.O. Box 81062, Seattle, WA 98108 – just note your donation is for the Matching Campaign, which ends January 15. Follow along on their 2025 season here.
6:01 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Friay, January 3rd, 2025.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
The forecast suggests rain for much of the day and night,high in the mid-40s. Sunrise/sunset – 7:57 am and 4:31 pm.
TRANSIT
Water Taxi – Regular schedule.
Metro buses – 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.
ROAD WORK
*SDOT warns you may see work trucks parked on the high bridge while crews wrap up some planned work inside.
*The Admiral Way Bridge seismic project shifted traffic flow to the outside lanes on Tuesday as planned, and removed the temporary crosswalk at 39th.
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!
Two reader reports:
PACKAGE TAKEN, ANOTHER LEFT BEHIND: From A:
At 10:37 this morning this person stole three packages from our porch (and left someone’s opened package). We are on 21st Ave SW between Myrtle and Holly. Pictures of person and their vehicle attached.
If anyone finds packages for Hallmon dumped somewhere, please let me know. I think they are things my daughter ordered with her Christmas money.
Also, if anyone knows a person at 30xx SW Bradford St. Apt. 222, we have what’s left of their package.
APPARENTLY ABANDONED BICYCLE: A texter sent this photo of a bike that’s been at the Southwest Teen Life Center building for three days:
The texter notes, “It’s an 18-speed Hyper Shocker 2G.”
(Reader photo, December 2023)
We showed you dozens of Christmas-light displays this year, but one was missing – the “4040 House” was out of commission after major damage in the “bomb cyclone” storm; the photo above is from its 2023 show. The 4040 House’s owners asked us to share this message:
A heartfelt update from 4040 House:
We’ve been truly humbled by the amazing support from everyone in the community. Your kind words and offers of help have helped us cope with the shock and sadness caused by the bomb cyclone’s damage.
To everyone who donated to our GoFundMe — thank you! We’ve already reached over 50% of our goal and will officially close the campaign on January 2 (today – closed now).
Your generosity is making a real difference, allowing us to lock in discounts from our vendors and start rebuilding for 2025. Some of the replacement equipment has already arrived!
We can’t wait to return in October 2025 with our much-loved Halloween display, bigger and greater than ever.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you again, and here’s to a wonderful 2025 for us all!
(Photos courtesy West Duwamish Greenbelt Trails Group)
One month ago, we told you about a new website for the West Duwamish Greenbelt Trails. Now, there’s word of a newly updated map to help you safely and knowledgeably get out into the forest! Here’s the announcement:
The West Duwamish Greenbelt Trails Group (WDGT) has updated an extensive map of trails in the West Duwamish Greenbelt as part of its mission to activate the park and draw people to the vast green space.
The West Duwamish Greenbelt is Seattle’s largest forest, covering more than 500 acres spanning more than four miles north to south. There are two distinct networks of trails. The northern network is between Highland Park Way SW and the West Seattle Bridge and includes the Duwamish Longhouse, South Seattle College, the Seattle Chinese Garden, Riverview Playfield, Puget Park, and Pigeon Point Park. The southern network includes Westcrest Park. WDGT would ultimately like to see the northern and southern trail networks connected, but it has been challenging to maintain a viable trail in the section of greenbelt between Highland Park Way SW and Westcrest Park.
The updated map includes additional trails, trailheads, landscape features and points of interest. Trails on the map are color-coded as improved; partially improved (soft surface); rough, steep and adventurous; pedestrian path, and paved public trail. To help guide you in real-time in the greenbelt, download the map to a phone using the Avenza Maps app. You can also create a route or track a route.
Throughout the map, users will find names of different areas in both English and Lushootseed, the language of the Coast Salish, such as Seven Cedars — c̕úʔkʷs x̌payʔ.
The updated trail maps are posted at various trailheads throughout the greenbelt and are also available as a downloadable PDF at wdgtrails.org/trails. The QR code to download the map to your phone is also available on the map.
Trail conditions and quality vary throughout the year. The soft trails are often muddy and slick during periods of heavy rain. Avoid hiking in the forest when wind speeds are high. Because there is currently little to no signage in the forest, the trail map is a helpful navigation tool for hikers new to the area.
The updated map was supported by a Community Partnership Fund grant from the city of Seattle. (The grant also supported an update of the West Duwamish Greenbelt Trails website and creation of an exhibit at the Log House Museum.) Matt Dressler, Cartographer and GIS Analyst at Mountains to Sound GIS in West Seattle, who created the map in 2022, updated the map from sources of available GIS data along with GPS tracks recorded by WDGT members.
WDGT is a collection of neighbors who promote walking and hiking trails in the greenbelt in partnership with the Duwamish Tribe. WDGT has been offering seasonal (April- November) free guided hikes in the greenbelt for nearly a decade. Find more info and opportunities to get involved at the new website.
(Photo courtesy NOAA Fisheries, taken under NMFS Permit #27052 on January 1)
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
When researchers got a look at the endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales’ newest calves on New Year’s Day, they were off West Seattle.
One of those calves, J61, has died and is being carried by her mom, J35 “Tahlequah,” as shown in the NOAA photo above, the same orca who carried a dead calf for 17 days in 2018. The other new calf, J62, seems “robust” so far, according to the researchers and other experts who just spent an hour talking with journalists on a conference call in which we participated.
(Monday photo of J62, by Tisa Annette, from land near Point No Point)
The federal researcher who was out with the whales on Wednesday was NOAA’s Brad Hanson (who has spoken in West Seattle at The Whale Trail‘s gatherings).
Though researchers weren’t able to get out on the water between December 23 – when J61 was newly born – and December 31, they believe she lived just a handful of days and had died by the New Year’s Eve sighting, at which J35 (who had a still-alive calf between the two who died) was “pushing something around.” They might not get many more chances to observe the whales, as this is the time of year when they depart for fishing grounds elsewhere.
In response to our question about the sighting locations yesterday, Hanson said they first saw J35, with J61 on her head, north of Alki, and left her south of Alki Point – ee explained that they try not to stay with the whales too long, for fear of disrupting them. That’s another reason they won’t be trying to recover J61 for a necropsy – J35 is very attached to her, and by the time she abandons the calf, it will be too late in the decomposition process – even if her carcass was recoverable – for it to be of value.
What’s the difference between the behaviors of the two calves, comparing the original live sighting of J61 and the new sighting of J62? Even before J61 died, J35 seemed to be pushing her around, Hanson said, while J62 appears to be swimming and surfacing “normally.” That calf was seen Wednesday near the Vashon/Fauntleroy ferry lanes. (That’s the second part of this two-part NOAA video package.)
(Video courtesy NOAA Fisheries, taken under NMFS Permit #27052 – view fullscreen here)
They’re not sure yet who its mom is; West Seattle-based researcher Maya Sears reported that it’s “still most closely associating with J19 and J41,” and NOAA’s Candice Emmons says “Most likely J41 is the mother and J19 is the grandmother, given their ages,” and there also was an indication in September that J41 was pregnant.
J61 and J62 were the first J-Pod calves since 2022, when J59 – who is still alive – was born. The first year is the biggest hurdle for calves, researchers say, but the endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales – now numbering 73 – have more hurdles than other orcas; the Northern Residents and Transients are both reproducing far more successfully and prolifically, according to the researchers. They don’t know the exact survival rate of Southern Residents, because they believe some calves are being born and dying without researchers ever having seen or learned of them.
(Photo courtesy NOAA Fisheries, taken under NMFS Permit #27052 on January 1)
So what exactly is the carrying-dead-calf behavior about?
The researchers say “grieving, or mourning” is a fair assessment – “we do see this behavior in other long-lived, socially cohesive animals.” It’s probably “social” behavior, they added, as “calves become central to the social nature of the pod.” But it’s not without risks to the bereaved mom – what she’s doing is likely taking a lot more energy, and researchers aren’t certain whether she’s able to forage for food while doing this.
To grow the population, said NOAA’s acting recovery coordinator Grace Ferrara, they are trying a “multi-pronged approach.” Increasing the salmon supply for the Southern Residents is important. So is noise reduction – as part of that, our state’s new rules for boaters took effect – 1,000 yards away from the whales.
They are also working on better ways to monitor the Southern Residents’ health; another participant in today’s briefing was Joe Gaydos of the SeaDoc Society, who was described as taking a lead on developing better tools to assess the whales’ health, while another participant, Michael Weiss from the Center for Whale Research, is working on a database with health information for individual whales.
MORE ABOUT THE SOUTHERN RESIDENTS: Recommended during the briefing was this Orca Network page with information about specific whales and pod-population info.
(Reader photo, December 27)
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
About a week ago, the CLOSED FOR BUSINESS sign went up at Funky Janes Consignment at California/Oregon in The Junction.
We’ve been working since then to speak with owner Panida Vilaythong, who bought Funky Jane’s in spring 2019 from 20-year owner Angela Nichols, and were finally able to talk with her this morning.
Our first question was simple: What happened?
“COVID happened,” Panida replied. “It’s been a long, slow bleed since 2020.” She had been running the store for less than a year when the pandemic closures began. Sales have never been the same; people’s shopping habits have changed permanently. “Since 2021, I’ve been floating the store.” She had hoped that within a year of buying the store, she’d be able to quit her “day job” in the insurance industry and focus on the store full time, but that never happened. “My job was keeping the store afloat.”
In 2021, “I wasn’t willing to admit defeat. I wanted to hunker down and see if I could make it through. I didn’t. I probably should have thrown in the towel two years ago.” She says she was likely “too proud” to let people see just how endangered the shop was, until it was too late. But looking back, she noticed that the changes in shoppers’ habits were also changes in consigners’ habits – “we got a lot of new consigners but they were not shoppers – they would buy stuff online and (consign in rather than return it) – if people aren’t also shopping (as well as consigning), that doesn’t pay all the bills.” And those bills have continued to increase, Panida says – operating expenses, employee pay, rent.
Realizing this fall that it was time to “throw in the towel” was compounded by dealing with a family tragedy – her father was diagnosed with a terminal illness, and lived in another state; he died recently and she just got back to West Seattle in time to deal with the closure.
She hopes she might be able to try running a consignment shop again someday – “This is not the end of the book, but the end of the chapter!” – but first she has to rebuild the savings (even her retirement fund) she depleted trying to keep Funky Janes going. And she has words of gratitude, for the West Seattle Junction Association and its merchants, and for her former staff, all West Seattleites: “I’m proud of them!” And she remains “proud of the community for coming together during the pandemic.” But, she warns, now that “life is back to normal … don’t forget about the merchants. Shop small! Every bit counts!”
SIDE NOTE: She says she closed with few remaining consigners – she had her last consignment appointments in October, and those agreements expired in December; for the handful that “came in” after that, she is contacting them all directly. Meantime, the 1,250-square-foot space is now empty and for rent (contact info is on the door).
If you see work vehicles parked atop the West Seattle Bridge, here’s why – the explanation is from SDOT spokesperson Ethan Bergerson:
We want to let you know that over the next few weeks there will be work vehicles parked on the shoulder of the West Seattle Bridge as our contractor Kraemer North America works on the inspection platforms inside the bridge. This is the final checklist item to finish before we close out their contract.
We would like to reassure the public that there is no cause for concern and the bridge’s structural health monitoring system indicates that the repairs completed in 2022 continue to be holding strong.
Here’s the followup we published last September 17, the two-year anniversary of the bridge’s reopening following a two-and-a-half-year closure.
We start today’s list with a holiday holdover …
(WSB photo by Jason Grotelueschen)
FAUNTLEROY FESTIVAL OF TREES: This morning is your last chance to see the Fauntleroy Church Festival of Trees – some heartwarming, some humorous – and “vote” for your fave(s) with nonperishable food donations. (See the stack on the tree in our photo above, as an example.) Visit the Fellowship Hall before noon today. (9140 California SW)
PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: rel=”noopener” target=”_blank”>10:30 am at West Seattle Library (2306 42nd SW).
WEST SEATTLE UKULELE PLAYERS: All levels welcome to this weekly 1 pm gathering. Email westseattleukuleleplayerswsup@gmail.com for info on where (and if!) 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 Llama Fusion.
WINE TASTING WITH CLARK: A regular Thursday feature at HPCS, 5-7:30 pm – details here.
HIGHLAND PARK RUN CLUB: You also can 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 – including sparkling wine!
WESTIES RUN CLUB: The 6 pm weekly run departs from Future Primitive on Alki (2536 Alki SW).
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fauntleroy for a walk in the park.
FREE FITNESS PROGRAMS – INFO NIGHT: At West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor), it’s Info Night for two free fitness programs – 6:30 pm, Get Fit, half-marathon training program for beginners, and 7 pm, Full Fit, novice/intermediate group training for full marathon.
LIVE AT THE SKYLARK: Doors 6, music 7, for Static, Raved by the River, Blue Light, Femmes Eat Fruit. $10. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
WEST SEATTLE BOOK CLUB: Your chance to drop in and read at multiple locations, some with food/drink specials! 7 pm – see the venues in our calendar listing.
TRIVIA: 7 pm at Burger Planet (9614 14th SW).
DJ NIGHT: The weekend starts early at Revelry Room (4547 California SW), with DJ Marc Muller at 8:30 pm.
Planning an event that should be on our calendar and in our daily preview lists? Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
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