Your trusted source for local Seattle, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
This week in Capitol Hill history recalls significant events, including the transformation of East Pike Street into a pedestrian-only zone, a tragic murder at Cal Anderson basketball court, and the memory of renowned chef Tamara Murphy. These stories highlight the evolving landscape and community impact of the Capitol Hill neighborhood.
The Bear Gulch Fire in Olympic National Forest has grown to 5,556 acres with only 3% containment as of August 9, 2025. Firefighters are preparing for hotter, drier weather that could worsen conditions while they continue to protect structures and evacuate affected areas. Evacuation orders are in effect, particularly near the Dry Creek Trail and Staircase Campground.
Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell declared August 9 as "Ichiro Day" to honor baseball legend Ichiro Suzuki, coinciding with his induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Suzuki is celebrated for his groundbreaking achievements in baseball, including over 3,000 MLB hits and a combined hit total of 4,367 across his Japanese and MLB careers. The proclamation emphasizes his role as a cultural ambassador and inspiration for generations.
Spokane County Sheriff's Office Sergeant Kenneth Salas, 59, was killed while clearing a traffic hazard on I-90 when a motorcyclist struck him. Salas had a distinguished 34-year law enforcement career and is survived by his family. The Washington State Patrol is investigating the incident.
Western Washington faces another heat wave with temperatures reaching the 90s this weekend, while the region grapples with moderate to extreme drought conditions. NOAA forecasts indicate a 33 to 40 percent chance of below-normal temperatures and up to a 40 percent chance of above-normal rainfall in the coming weeks.
Cal Anderson Park in Seattle will host a vegan street fair this weekend, highlighting the growing popularity of plant-based diets. The event aims to attract both locals and visitors, featuring a variety of vegan food vendors and activities. This initiative reflects the city's commitment to promoting sustainable and healthy eating options.
Haunted Burrow Books, Capitol Hill's new horror and dark fantasy bookstore, recently opened on 15th Ave E amidst a temporary retail experiment. Owner Roxanne Guiney, who previously sold through online platforms and flea markets, hosts various events like book clubs and art showings while navigating a neighborhood facing redevelopment challenges. The store aims to provide a unique literary experience as construction plans for the area evolve.
Major construction projects are set to begin in Seattle, impacting the Portage Bay Bridge and Roanoke Lid areas. These initiatives aim to relocate critical utilities to improve infrastructure. The construction is expected to affect local traffic and accessibility.
Seattle's SR 520 Portage Bay Bridge and Roanoke Lid project will undergo significant utility relocation this summer, impacting traffic and local access. Construction crews will work on major utilities, including a 12-inch water main and a 26-kilovolt power line, with the project expected to continue into 2026. The Boyer Stairs will remain closed until 2030 due to ongoing construction efforts.
The Capitol Hill Garage Sale returns on Sunday, August 17, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cal Anderson Park, featuring over 100 vendors. Organized by the Cal Anderson Park Alliance, the event promotes community engagement and recycling while allowing residents to sell their items.