🎇 Found in a Bus Near the Highway
A property owner near the Richardson Highway in Alaska made a startling discovery: 50 pounds of old dynamite inside an abandoned school bus. While it's far from Seattle, it's a good reminder for folks in the Snoqualmie Valley or rural Pierce County—if you find something suspicious while exploring property or old outbuildings, call the pros. The FBI handled the Alaskan find with a robot, chemicals, and a controlled burn. Safety first, even here in the PNW.
💇 Blonde is Fading—Literally
Stylists from Ballard to Bellevue are seeing signs: the platinum look is giving way to what they’re calling "recession blonde." Clients are spacing out appointments, blending their natural roots, or skipping full coloring. With prices rising around Capitol Hill salons, stylists are offering free trims with color or tips on DIY styling at home. It’s giving "natural and thrifty" all over King County.
💼 Washington's Health Care Rank
A new WalletHub report ranked states by health care quality, and Washington came in at #9 overall. We scored high in access and outcomes, though we’re still working on cost. Compare that to Oregon at #18 and Idaho way down at #42. In Seattle, where tech and health care often intersect, it’s good to know we’re still ahead of the curve.
🏖️ PNW’s Peaceful Beaches
You don’t have to hop a plane to get calm coastal vibes. The list of quietest beaches in the U.S. includes Whidbey Island’s Double Bluff Beach, praised for its space and scenery without the chaos. Ocean Shores and Ruby Beach on the Olympic Peninsula also make great local options for a mellow day on the water.
🔥 Bear Gulch Fire Update
The Bear Gulch Fire burning in Mason County near Lake Cushman continues to spread. It’s reached 1,000 acres, climbing up Mount Rose, and is just 10% contained. If you’re planning a hike or camping trip from Hoodsport, stay updated—trails and campgrounds are closed until further notice.
🏀 Seahawks Hit: McIntosh Out
Seahawks rookie Kenny McIntosh tore his ACL during training camp in Renton, and he’s now out for the season. Coach Macdonald says surgery is on deck. It’s a blow for the depth chart, and fans in Tacoma and Everett who’ve followed McIntosh’s potential will have to wait another year.
⚾ Mariners Cool the A's
Over at T-Mobile Park, the Mariners beat the Oakland A’s 3-1, with Josh Naylor hitting his first homer since arriving. Luis Castillo threw heat for seven innings, while Andrés Muñoz picked up his 24th save. Great night in SoDo.
✈️ Threat on SEA-DEN Flight
A Frontier flight from Sea-Tac to Denver landed safely after two threatening notes were found mid-flight. FBI says the threat wasn’t credible. No injuries, no bomb found—just a big sigh of relief from everyone flying out of Sea-Tac that day.
🚴 RAMROD Rolls Thursday
RAMROD—Ride Around Mount Rainier in One Day—kicks off Thursday, starting in Enumclaw. It’s a massive 150-mile trek through Cayuse Pass, Packwood, and Ashford. Even if you’re not cycling, watch for increased traffic in those areas. And good luck to the PNW pedal warriors!
🛳 Fleet Week on the Waterfront
Fleet Week returns to the Seattle Waterfront, with the Navy, Coast Guard, and even Seattle Fire boats arriving in Elliott Bay. Catch the ships docked at Pier 46, take a tour, or just enjoy the view from Alki or Gas Works Park.
🍌 Seafair Weekend Incoming
This weekend, Seafair brings its full spectacle to Lake Washington: Blue Angels, hydroplanes, food trucks, and big crowds. Friday through Sunday, heads up for road closures around South Lake Union, Genesee Park, and I-90 floating bridge closures during Blue Angels flyovers. Plan accordingly.
💍 Marriage Licenses Cost More
As of this week, King County marriage licenses went up from $69 to $169. The extra money supports domestic violence intervention programs. If you’re planning a wedding in Redmond or Renton, budget accordingly—and consider it an investment in public safety services.
📱 Seattle's 10-Hour Digital Day
Seattleites spend an average of 10+ hours a day online, according to a new national survey. About half of that is on social media, emails, and shopping; the rest is streaming. With fiber in places like Kirkland and gig-speed Wi-Fi in South Seattle, it’s easier than ever to get glued to a screen. Maybe it’s time for a Green Lake walk?
🤖 Before You Date—Don’t Over-Google
Seattle dating coaches say it’s smart to look someone up before meeting, but don’t go too deep. LinkedIn? Okay. Their third cousin’s tagged photos from 2016? Too far. Belltown bars and Capitol Hill cafés are great spots to meet—but real chemistry happens offline.
🚗 Used Cars? Skip June, Try January
Thinking of buying a used car in Northgate or Auburn? June is the worst time to shop—prices peak and dealers rarely offer deals. Best time? January, or even Black Friday if you can wait.
🧠 PNW Parents Feel the Pressure
A new survey found the average parent feels like a “bad parent” three times a week. Between commutes from Bothell, screen time guilt, and rising grocery costs in West Seattle, it’s no surprise. Just know—you’re doing better than you think.