SPORTS: High-school basketball season tips off

Not only is the holiday season here, but so is winter-sports season for local high-school athletes. Basketball began tonight for many teams, including Chief Sealth International High School. The CSIHS girls’ basketball team won their season opener at Evergreen HS in White Center, 35-16; the West Seattle High School girls’ season starts tomorrow (Tuesday) night at home, hosting Franklin, 7:30 pm. As for the boys, Chief Sealth opened with an 84-58 loss tonight at Kennedy Catholic in Burien; the WSHS boys start their season tomorrow night at Edmonds-Woodway, 7:15 pm.

WEST SEATTLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: Early look at a hot spot

Out scouting Christmas lights again tonight, we wandered over to the Charlestown Standpipe (aka “water tower”) vicinity, where you’ll usually find several densely lit homes. A little early, maybe, as the only one we found in full force was this one on the west side of 40th just north of Charlestown.

We’ll visit again later in the season. Meantime, tips welcome if you have, or see, festive lights – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Business burglary; garage break-in on video

Two burglaries in this West Seattle Crime Watch report:

BUSINESS BURGLARY: Thanks for the tip about police at The Whittaker (4755 Fauntleroy Way SW) Sunday morning, The police narrative we obtained today confirms a business burglary at the mixed-use building. 911 was called by security reporting a live video feed showing two people trying to cut a safe door. Here’s what police say happened when they arrived and discovered the break-in was at the T-Mobile store:

… officers noticed that the lock on the front door appeared to be punched out, and the door was not secured. We made entry and cleared the store. There was an office in the back that had a keypad lock with pry marks on the door. The door was locked, and it is unknown if the suspects were able to gain access to the back room. On the desks where the employees work, there were multiple drawers opened, and we found two specialized keys that are used to unlock the cellphones that are on display. It appeared that approximately 10 cellphones were taken from the walls. It is unknown what makes or models of phones were taken. I dusted for fingerprints and was able to lift one print from a metal bracket used to secure one of the missing phones, which I submitted in the Southwest Precinct Evidence Room as evidence.

The report also says the store had interior video cameras, but police couldn’t access them at the time as they were unable to reach a manager.

GARAGE BREAK-IN ON VIDEO: Chris sent the clips of a garage burglary in Admiral this past Monday and believes it’s the same burglar shown in other reports:

Our garage was broken into on Monday morning in North Admiral. We noticed that others have posted at photo of the exact same guy. He’s wearing exactly the same sweater as one of the daylight photos someone has posted of him.

Police report is 2025-345038.

As shown in the video, the burglar stole a bicycle from Chris’s garage.

WEST SEATTLE HOLIDAY SCENE: Preview Rotary Club’s Festival of Mini-Trees before Thursday bidding

Thursday night, 5:30-7:30 pm, you’re invited to Brookdale West Seattle (4611 35th SW) for a holiday event during which more than a dozen decorated mini-trees will be silent-auctioned by the Rotary Club of West Seattle Foundation to raise money for community projects. Daily through then, the Brookdale lobby is open to visitors, 9 am-5 pm, for a preview. Here are just a few – a tree donated by Kelli’s Child Care that’s perfect for Seahawks fans:

Another, donated by Mike and Kate Price, hits it out of the park for Mariners fans:

If you love winter snow, the tree donated by the West Seattle YMCA (WSB sponsor) might be your fave:

And for dog lovers, West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor) unleashed this one:

On Thursday evening, when the mini-trees (and some decorated wreaths) will be silent-auctioned, refreshments including hors d’oeuvres will be provided, and you can park across 35th in the West Seattle Stadium/Golf Course lot and catch a shuttle at 5:30 or 6 pm. This flyer has more info about the event/auction, which raises money for signature Rotary Foundation projects including the West Seattle Grand Parade and Pencil Me In For Kids.

Global showcase for 9-year-old West Seattle musician Ashton Hart Wecker

(WSB video of Ashton performing at this year’s West Seattle Summer Fest)

A young singer/keyboardist who often busks at the West Seattle Farmers’ Market wasn’t there this past Sunday.

But there’s a good reason for that.

Nine-year-old Ashton Hart Wecker is getting ready for the biggest show of his young life – thousands of miles from his home in West Seattle. Ashton’s parents Noah and Angie explain:

He has been invited to perform in New York City as part of the global non-profit Kids Rock for Kids. This organization brings together talented young musicians from around the world to put on performances that empower kids while raising money for various charities.

Ashton will be among one of the youngest musicians performing and the only one representing the Pacific Northwest, sharing the stage with kids from across the U.S., the U.K., Ecuador, and Italy.

The show is this Saturday, December 6, at The Bitter End, which Ashton’s parents note is “the oldest rock venue in NYC.”

Ashton was spotlighted on WSB this past January, performing at West Seattle Nursery (WSB sponsor) as WSN presented a gift to Mode Music Studios (WSB sponsor) and Mode Music and Performing Arts, both of which he’s studied at.

FOLLOWUP: How gingerbread can help fix vandalized windows

That’s another view of one of the windows broken at Baked Custom Cakes in The Admiral District by a vandal who also broke windows at Alki Bike and Board next door, as reported here on Thanksgiving Day. The holidays can be a make-or-break time for small businesses, but these two are bearing extra expense because of the vandalism. We mentioned Alki Bike and Board’s sales last weekend; Baked also has something you might want to buy:

Proprietor Kristina tells WSB that she’s selling gingerbread kits – not just houses, but also cookies – that matter a lot to her bottom line “especially this season with having to replace my shop windows; as you can imagine those are not cheap and this is a slower time for me so these really get me through the holidays.” You can order kit(s) online at curbside-store.square.site. (Part of the proceeds also benefit West Seattle Food Bank.)

WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Man arrested after gunfire in Junction building

(Added: Reader photo. Alaska House is building on the left)

11:12 AM: Thanks for the tips. The situation that’s been unfolding this past hour at the Alaska House apartments in The Junction (on 42nd just north of Junction Plaza Park) started with a report of gunfire in an apartment and a man threatening people, in what’s described as a domestic-violence situation. Police have one suspect in custody and found “live rounds” plus at least one bullet hole in an apartment on the 8th floor. A gun was recovered, according to police radio. More info as we get it.

11:23 AM: So far, police have reported finding a shotgun but not the pistol they believe the suspect fired (the rounds that were found were described as .22). No injuries reported but medics were called to check out a pregnant woman who was one of the people allegedly threatened.

Here’s the West Seattle list for your Monday, from our Event Calendar and Holiday Guide!

(One more look at Sunday’s splendor – photo by James Bratsanos, looking at Manchester and The Brothers)

Here’s what’s happening in West Seattle, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and Holiday Guide (got something to add? please send info!):

WINTER CLOTHING DRIVE: Bring donations of warm clothing to the bin at Dave Newman State Farm Insurance Agency (3435 California SW; WSB sponsor), 9 am-5 pm weekdays.

OTHER DONATION DRIVES … are listed in our Holiday Guide, and we’re continuing to add more – whatever you can give, whenever you can give!

ROTARY FESTIVAL OF MINI-TREES: Last week to see the Rotary Club of West Seattle‘s decorated mini-trees at Brookdale West Seattle (4611 35th SW), 9 am-5 pm through Thursday – then Thursday night you can bid on them at a holiday reception!

FAUNTLEROY FESTIVAL OF TREES: The Fauntleroy Church Festival of Trees opens for public drop-in viewing starting this morning, 9 am-noon Mondays through Thursdays. You can vote for your favorite(s) by bringing nonperishable food donation(s) to stack beneath it/them! (9140 California SW)

BABY STORY TIME: At Southwest Library, 12 pm-12:30 pm.

HOMEWORK HELP: Free drop-in homework help at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), 4 pm to 5:45 pm.

INTRO TO ZEN: Quarterly free event at 5:30 pm, preceding weekly meditation at Fauntleroy Church, as featured below. (9140 California SW)

D&D: Long-running weekly D&D at 6:30 pm at Meeples Games (3727 California SW). All welcome, first-time players included!

‘LISTENING TO GRIEF’ SUPPORT GROUP: 6:30 pm, ongoing weekly group for people experiencing grief – participate once, occasionally, or every week. Fee; book a spot here. (4034 California SW)

MONDAY NIGHT TRIVIA X 4: Four places to play tonight! Every-other-week Monday music quiz at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW), 6:30 and 7:30 pm sessions … 7 pm at The Good Society (California/Lander) … 7 and 8 pm Sporcle Pub Quiz at Three 9 Lounge (4505 39th SW), 21+ … 7:30 pm with QuizFix at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW)

ALKI MEDITATION: Doors open at 6:45 for 7 pm Monday night meditation at Alki UCC (6115 SW Hinds).

POOL TOURNAMENT: Pool players are welcome to enter The Corner Pocket‘s weekly tournament starting at 7 pm. $10 buy-in. (4302 SW Alaska)

FAUNTLEROY MEDITATION: South-end Monday night meditation – free weekly Zen sitting/meditation in the chapel at Fauntleroy UCC (9140 California SW), 7 pm-8:30 pm.

JAZZ AT THE ALLEY: Live music with The Westside Jazz Trio, 8 pm at The Alley (behind 4509 California SW), 21+, no cover.

MONDAY KARAOKE 9 pm Mondays, sing karaoke at Talarico’s Pizzeria (4718 California SW).

Thanks to EVERYONE who sends info for our calendar and Holiday Guide; if you have something to add or cancel (or otherwise update), please send the info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

YOU CAN HELP: Volunteer so adult English-language learners can practice conversation

Now that December has begun, January is in view, and it’s not too soon to think about resolutions for 2026. If you’re thinking about volunteering, here’s an option: Volunteer to talk with adult English-language learners who want to practice conversation skills.

A new conversation circle is starting up at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), Friday afternoons, 12:30 pm to 2 pm, January 9 through March 13, in partnership with Literacy Source. If you’re interested in volunteering, email carolines@literacysource.org (and if you’re a beginning/intermediate English-language learner interested in participating, just show up on January 9).

TRAFFIC, WEATHER, TRANSIT, CLOSURES: Monday info, as December begins

6:01 AM: Good morning! Back to work and school – it’s Monday, December 1, 2025!

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET

The forecast for today: Mostly cloudy, chance of rain, high in the mid-40s. Sunrise will be at 7:37 am; sunset will be at 4:19 pm.

CLOSURES

South Park Bridge closed overnight tonight and Tuesday night.

-The Highway 99 tunnel will have lane closures tonight, Tuesday night, and Wednesday night:

Monday night: From 9 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1, to 5 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, the right lane of the northbound SR 99 tunnel will close. The Royal Brougham Way on-ramp to northbound SR 99 and the northbound SR 99 off-ramp to Republican Street will close at the same time.

Tuesday night: From 9 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, to 5 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, the two left lanes of southbound SR 99 will close north of the tunnel. The southbound SR 99 off-ramp to Harrison Street will close at the same time.

Wednesday night: From 9 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, to 5 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, the Sixth Avenue North on-ramp to southbound SR 99 will close.

Washington State Department of Transportation maintenance crews will use this closure to remove existing vegetation for later replanting.

TRANSIT TODAY AND TOMORROW

Washington State Ferries – The Triangle Route is on the three-boat schedule, with M/V Cathlamet, M/V Kittitas, and M/V Sealth. Vessel Watch will show you which boat is where; ferry alerts will update with any changes. Regular schedule today.

Metro buses – Back to regular weekday schedule and routes.

Water Taxiregular West Seattle service, fall/winter schedule.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

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

Low Bridge – Here’s the view looking west. Also note, maritime-opening info is again available via X (ex-Twitter):

1st Avenue South Bridge:

Delridge cameras: In addition to the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.

MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.

See a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!

WEEK AHEAD: December’s first ‘king tides’

(WSB photo: Sandbagged Alki Statue of Liberty Plaza before November ‘king tides’)

The fall/winter high tides known as “king tides” will peak in December and January, and the next round is coming up at the end of this week. Keeping in mind that tides can be increased by certain atmospheric conditions, these are the times and peaks as currently projected by tide charts:

Friday, December 5 – 12.6 feet at 5:49 am
Saturday, December 6 – 12.9 feet at 6:40 am
Sunday, December 7 – 12.9 feet at 7:29 am
Monday, December 8 – 12.7 feet at 8:18 am

All but that last one will be before sunrise. Same for the five highest-tide days in January:

Saturday, January 3 – 12.8 feet at 5:51 am
Sunday, January 4 – 12.9 feet at 6:30 am
Monday, January 5 – 13.0 feet at 7:08 am
Tuesday, January 6 – 12.9 feet at 7:43 am
Wednesday, January 7 – 12.8 feet at 8:17 am

(There are other dates with 12+-foot high tides, but these are the highest in the next two months.) If you need sandbags, the city’s current West Seattle distribution spot is Southwest Pool (2801 SW Thistle).

WEST SEATTLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: Happiness on 42nd

Feliz Navidad – Happy Christmas – says one of the illuminated decorations at this house on the west side of 42nd SW, north of SW Graham. We noticed the yard’s many holiday characters all lit up earlier this week, before weather like today’s sunshine gave more people a chance to decorate. At this house, both sides of the front yard are filled with happiness:

We’re featuring local lights every night through Christmas – so if you have a display the community should see, and/or when you notice one, please let us know – photos appreciated but not necessary – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

WEST SEATTLE WEATHER: Colorful start and end to sunny Sunday

This sunny Sunday was bookended by beautiful color – deep pink at sunset, as shown in James Bratsanos‘s photo above and Carol Ann Joyce‘s photo below:

(added) Note the pink-tinged water off Alki in Sara Walsh‘s photo:

And the sunrise put on a show too, accompanied by fog – Theresa Arbow-O’Connor was there to photograph it:

The more typical Northwest autumn gray may be back for Monday – the National Weather Service says rain could resume as soon as tomorrow morning.

WEST SEATTLE BIRDS: Seven views of our winged neighbors

Time for one of our periodic Sunday afternoon bird galleries, thanks to the photographers who’ve sent pics! We start with three from the prolific Jerry Simmons – above, an Anna’s Hummingbird; below, Canada Geese, and a quizzical Bushtit:

Tom Trulin photographed this Mallard at Cove Park in Fauntleroy:

Steve Bender found this Heron in South Park:

Julia Schroeder photographed this Bald Eagle outside her home:

And Mark Carroll sent this sighting from North Shorewood:

Between galleries, we also publish bird photos with our daily lists on occasion, along with other types of West Seattle photos – thanks again to everyone who shares theirs, so we can in turn share with you – westseattleblog@gmail.com any time!

CLOSURE ALERT: South Park Bridge, two nights

As Duwamish River cleanup work continues, the South Park Bridge has two more overnight closures coming up, Monday night into Tuesday morning (December 1-2) and Tuesday night into Wednesday morning (December 2-3). Here are the announcement details:

The South Park Bridge will be fully closed to all vehicles and pedestrians on the nights of Monday, December 1, and Tuesday, December 2, from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m., while crews place clean material under the bridge. It will reopen at 6 a.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday, with closures ending the morning of Wednesday, December 3.

During this time, the bridge will be in a raised position. This allows crews to place clean material under the bridge in locations where they dredged earlier in the construction season. Unlike during daytime construction, recreational vessels will not be permitted to pass beneath the South Park Bridge during this nighttime work. …

King County Metro Route 60, which travels over the South Park Bridge, will be rerouted during the hours of the bridge closures. King County Metro will provide Route 60 reroute information on the Metro Services Advisories page: kingcounty.gov/metro/alerts.

UPDATE: Death investigation at Rotary Viewpoint Park (more information added Monday)

ORIGINAL SUNDAY REPORT: Several texters asked about an emergency response at Rotary Viewpoint Park (35th SW and SW Alaska) this morning. According to SFD and SPD radio recordings and logs, 911 got a call around 8:15 this morning about a person who had died in a tent. Upon arrival, responderd confirmed the death. That’s all we know so far; the King County Medical Examiner’s Office has removed the body, and we’re checking with police about the case.

MONDAY UPDATE: Police responded to our inquiry today. While we’re still awaiting information from the Medical Examiner – which could come as soon as today’s weekday update around 3 pm – the police report says the man who died was 37 years old; likely overdosed, based on drug paraphernalia around his body; and had probably been dead two or three days. Police added, “(Name redacted) does not appear to have any next of kin to notify of his passing.”

MONDAY UPDATE #2: He does not appear to be on today’s ME list.

WEST SEATTLE SUNDAY: Here’s what’s up as holiday weekend wraps up

During the holiday season, we’re publishing two-part event lists most days, especially on weekends – first part today is from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide:

DUWAMISH LONGHOUSE NATIVE ART MARKET, DAY 3: Final day to shop the work of Native artists and crafters, 10 am-5 pm. Food vendors too. And parking on both sides of WMW. Here’s our coverage from earlier in the weekend. (4705 West Marginal Way SW)

206 MAKERS’ MARKET AT JET CITY LABS: Another place to find multiple creators/vendors! At Jet City Labs (4547 California SW), vendors with ceramics, textiles, baked goods, more. Plus a pop-up with customizable gear! 10 am-2 pm

MOON ROOM SHOP & WELLNESS SALE: The “sweet little gift shop in the universe” at 5902 California SW (WSB sponsor) is “having a 15% off sale in-store and online again today. Moon Room is open 11 am-5 pm today.

MOUNTAIN TO SOUND OUTFITTERS SALE: At the Triangle shop (3602 SW Alaska, WSB sponsor), “Happy Holidays! To help you get ready this holiday season, and to celebrate our 16th year as a shop, we’re offering 16% off a full purchase of 3 items or more all. weekend. long. ”

THUNDER ROAD GUITARS SALE: Thunder Road Guitars (6400 California SW; WSB sponsor) has a mega-sale and guitar drawing all weekend – details here (drawing tonight).

WEST SEATTLE ROTARY FESTIVAL OF MINI-TREES: Drop in at Brookdale West Seattle (4611 35th SW) any day through December 4 to see the decorated mini-trees, donated by Rotarians and businesses, between now and Thursday (December 4); on Thursday evening, 5:30-7:30 pm, the trees will be silent-auctioned, with refreshments provided by Brookdale.

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 onward tonight. Tickets and info here.

Now today’s non-holiday highlights, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you’ll find even more listings!) and inbox:

WESTIES RUN CLUB: No Sunday run this week – but you’re welcome to join the Westies cheering for the Seattle Marathon and Half runners.

AMERICAN MAH JONGG: Weekly games are back at the new location of The Missing Piece (4707 California SW), 9:30 am.

SUNDAY MORNING MEDITATION: Small-group class at 9:30 am at Mama Be Well (4034-A California SW); preregistration info is in our calendar listing.

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: Open as usual in its regular spot on California between Oregon and Alaska, 10 am-2 pm, now in late-fall produce season – roots, greens, peppers, mushrooms, beans, garlic, apples, more – plus lots of baked goods, cheeses, meats, fish, prepared foods, condiments, pasta, more.

FREE NIA CLASS: Now starting at 10:15 am, first class free if you pre-register. At Inner Alchemy Studio/Sanctuary (3618 SW Alaska).

WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Need a tool but don’t need to, or can’t, buy it? You’ll probably be able to borrow it from the Tool Library, open 11 am-4 pm on the northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

FOOD DRIVE & SIGN-HOLDING: West Seattle Resist‘s Sunday 11:30 am-1:30 pm sign-holding events also include a drop-off food drive through the rest of the year. South of Farmers’ Market. (California SW and SW Alaska)

WELCOME ROAD WINERY: Relax and 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)

LIVE MUSIC AT C & P COFFEE: Seabyrd Trio iperforms 3-5 pm. All ages, no cover. (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor)

PENELOPE’ MATINEE AT ARTSWEST: West Seattle’s playhouse has just opened the folk-pop musical “Penelope,” with a 3 pm matinée today; get tickets here. (4711 California SW)

FREE COMMUNITY YOGA: 4 pm class at Dragonflyc (3270 California SW).

UNDERGROUND TRIVIA AT CORNER POCKET: 7:30 pm, free to play. (4302 SW Alaska)

LIVE MUSIC AT THE ALLEY: 8-10 pm, Sundays feature live music with the Triangular Jazztet at The Alley (behind 4509 California SW).

Are you planning, organizing, and/or publicizing something that we could add to the WSB community event calendar – one-time or recurring? Please email us the basic details – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

WEST SEATTLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: First weekend for Menashe Family’s legendary display

(WSB photos)

From the Nativity, to Santa and his reindeer …

… to a cheery family of snowmen …

… to holiday trains …

… many a Christmas story is told in the Menashe Family‘s front yard at 5605 Beach Drive SW, which at this time of year offers up West Seattle’s brightest Christmas lights, from the tree tops to the sidewalk:

They’ve been switching to LEDs over the years so it’s not as energy-consuming as you might suspect. But it’s still enough to widen the eyes of kids – and grownups – who stop by to look. One particularly special night to visit will be Saturday, December 13, when Santa and reindeer will be there, starting at 6 pm. … In the meantime, we’ll be featuring holiday lights nightly through Christmas, so if you have one to recommend, please let us know – with or without pics – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
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SOCCER UPDATES: West Seattle Junction and Rhodies FC season tickets, ‘Open Goal,’ World Cup clinic, more

Soccer season is in sight – as is a huge year for the sport in Seattle – and West Seattle’s own FCs have news! Here are updates West Seattle Junction and Rhodies FCs’ ownership asked us to share with you:

WS Junction & Rhodies FC: Season Tickets, The Open Goal Initiative, & Season 2 Rhodies Launch Party!

WS Junction FC has several updates for local soccer supporters, including 2026 season-ticket sales, the launch of their new community-impact program, and the popular Rhodies Season Launch Party!

2026 Season Tickets Available Starting Now – Season tickets for the 2026 Junction & Rhodies FC season went on sale today on the Club Ticket website. Early purchasing is encouraged, as demand has continued to increase and preferred sections may sell out. Special pricing for youth tickets (50% off) with the purchase of an Adult ticket (children 3 and under are free).

New Community Initiative: “Open Goal” – The Club is introducing “Open Goal”, a program aimed at expanding access to soccer across West Seattle and the broader Southwest area. The initiative goals for 2026 will begin by providing no-cost single-match tickets for families and individuals in need at their non-profit partners including the West Seattle YMCA and the West Seattle Food Bank. Several free soccer clinics are planned for spring/summer 2026 as well. The Club would like to offer a very special thanks to Special thanks to the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, city councilmember Rob Saka, King County Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda, and Seattle Public Schools board president Gina Topp, for supporting this initiative so our entire community can enjoy the excitement of professional soccer that will embrace Seattle in 2026!

Free World Cup Youth Soccer Clinic – Saturday, Dec 13th – 10-12pm Steve Cox Memorial Park – This free clinic is Powered by a “Game Ready Activation Grant” provided by the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, the Community Business Connector network, and the Game Ready Business Ready initiative. Free registration is available on the Northwest Soccer Foundation website.

Rhodies Season 2 Launch Party – Thursday, December 18th, 6-8:30 pm, Viscon Cellars – The season 2 Rhodies Launch party, which features a Club-branded Viscon Cellars Sparkling wine, Hors D’oeuvres, exclusive fan merchandise, and a sneak peek at 2026 jerseys. Tickets are available on the Team Square Shop.

Lastly, there is more excitement “brewing” (pun intended) as the Club continues to make big strides in expanded use of the Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex stadium. Seattle Parks Department and Seattle Public Schools are considering expanded use to provide a beer garden and food trucks for next season’s events. If approved, a portion of the proceeds would provide additional free soccer clinics and game-day tickets for West Seattle SPS students.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup matches in Seattle are scheduled between June 15 and July 6. The Junction and Rhodies FCs’ 2026 season schedules are expected to be announced in January.

Registered for West Seattle’s holiday scavenger hunt Winter Wander yet?

Maybe you’ve seen that sign but didn’t have time to stop and investigate. It’s for Winter Wander, which organizer Alice Kuder has turned into a holiday-season tradition. It’s free, fun, and starts in less than a week – here’s the announcement, if you’re not signed up already:

The Winter Wander Scavenger Hunt is a free, 10-day community event designed to bring friends and families together for holiday fun. Wanderers download instructions, a Bingo-style clue sheet, and a map, then scour West Seattle to identify the locations that solve the clues, and upload selfies in front of those locations to qualify for prize drawings. Open to everyone of all ages! Winter Wander starts at 5 PM Fri., Dec. 5h, and concludes at 7 PM, Sun., Dec. 14th, 2025. Sign up anytime between those dates by registering at wondersinaliceland.com.

CONTINUING SUNDAY: Duwamish Longhouse Native Art Market in West Seattle

(WSB photos)

The Duwamish Tribe Longhouse and Cultural Center (4705 West Marginal Way SW) is midway through its annual three-day Native Art Market. We visited toward the end of day 1 to see some of the creations that artists and crafters are selling both in the main hall and in the year-round exhibit space. Some are from Northwest tribes, like Denise of the Skokomish:

Jonny is selling items primarily from Ecuador and Peru, including beaded leather bands:

These are made with alpaca wool:

Shelly is there with ceramic miniature holiday trees:

And at other tables you can find creations from Native-themed art to quirky stocking stuffers including these keychains made of letters from old license plates:

The longhouse market continues until 5 pm today and again 10 am-5 pm on Sunday; they’re also planning a one-day market those same hours on Friday, December 19.

UPDATE: Crews replace Morgan Junction utility pole after early-morning crash; driver arrested

ORIGINAL SATURDAY REPORT: Thanks to the reader who texted the photo and report of crews replacing this utility pole in the 6600 block of Fauntleroy Way SW [vicinity map]. It was reported hit by a driver at 2:30 am; we heard the dispatch but the pole was not initially reported compromised, the street was not reported blocked, and the driver was reported unhurt. Reviewing subsequent radio exchanges, police were investigating the driver for possible DUI.

ADDED MONDAY: We confirmed with police that the 27-year-old man driving the car that hit the pole, a 2025 Audi, was arrested on suspicion of DUI. According to the police-report narrative, he was alone in the car and unable to tell them where he had been coming from and where he was living or staying; he had a Washington, D.C. driver license and gave what appears to be a South Park addressed when also asked where he was going, though he was driving in the opposite direction. The officer writing the report also noted he “had no shirt on.”

UPDATE: Water trouble on Puget Ridge

10:48 AM: Two readers have reported water trouble on 16th SW, though nothing is listed on the Seattle Public Utilities map as either a current or restored outage. One says their water’s out; another reports crews working near Myrtle. We’ll be heading over for a look.

(Added: WSB photo)

12:06 PM: No crew on 16th now, but fresh-looking patches and water on the street are in view just north of Myrtle.