Legends of Vashon By Marc J. Elzenbeck Navy submarines are designed to not be seen, so the recent upswing in surface sightings off West Seattle is noteworthy. In 2025 alone, West Seattle Blog readers reported at least four submarine sightings off Alki, and reports have continued in 2026. These may be shakedown cruises, mild test runs from…
By Mike Ivaska Last week I was diagnosed with high blood pressure. This is due, in part I’m sure, to the stresses of life. It also likely stems from genetics. It also doesn’t help, I imagine, that I’m a middle-aged fat guy who likes Doritos. I’ve been thinking a lot lately about being middle-aged. The…
Illustration by Cynthia Sadurni By Cynthia Sadurni What comes to mind when we encounter the image of a panther, be it a leopard or jaguar? We feel awe, admiration, or maybe wonderment. We may think it majestic, mysterious, strong. So, I wonder, why should our feelings be different when we encounter a black cat? Is…
By Andy Valencia Reality TV has been with us for almost 35 years. Networks loved it because people – for free – would line up to behave shamelessly for the cameras. Viewers loved it because, well, really I have no idea. But it contributed to decades of an entertainment wasteland. Every cloud has its silver…
By Rich Osborne Like every other Islander, I have endured the Judd Creek bridge closure. And yes, it added five minutes and 20 seconds to my commute. Every time. But I noticed something. Somehow, it increased my toleration of other drivers. I found myself channeling Bobby McFerrin. “Don’t worry, be happy.” My friend John said,…
By Amri Valencia Dragons of Vashon: New Ferry – Comic by Amri Valencia
By Caitlin Rothermel In our August 2026 issue, The Loop published an opinion article, “Should We Talk About Trans Issues? Yes, and Here’s Why …” that referenced Initiative 638 (I-638), being voted on in Washington state this November. This article was controversial. Online discussions were very critical. The Loop also received private input that was both constructive and…
By Kim von Henkle, Chuck Weinstock, Bailey de Iongh, and Jay Williamson The No Hate in WA State campaign is working to defeat two initiatives on the November ballot, I-001 and I-638. These harmful initiatives challenge the safety and well-being of Vashon and Washington’s K-12 kids, particularly those who are LGBTQ+. Our comments center on I-638, which would…
By Brian Anderson I-638 will restore fairness and dignity to girls’ sports in Washington State by restricting girls’ sports to biological girls (i.e., females). Here are two of examples of how Washington State’s transgender sports policy undermines safety and fairness for female athletes. Kallie Keeler is a 15-year-old wrestler who claims she was sexually assaulted by a transgender girl…