West Seattle, Washington

27 Wednesday

67℉

Spotlight Stories


  • Art

    DEMOLITION: What’s up after this comes down

  • Block Party

    ADMIRAL BLOCK PARTY: Video, photos

  • Hiawatha

    SEE INSIDE: Long-closed Hiawatha CC

Video: School Board fires Goodloe-Johnson, appoints Enfield
March 2, 2011 6:07 pm
|      40 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

(ADDED, 11:02 PM – clip of new interim superintendent’s full speech, plus the entire :15 of cheering that followed the Goodloe-Johnson-firing vote, and board president Steve Sundquist’s remarks before the vote)

(WSB iPhone photo showing half of the standing-room-only crowd)
6:07 PM: We’re at Seattle Public Schools HQ in SODO along with a full complement of regional media and a full house of spectators as the semimonthly meeting of the Seattle School Board – led by West Seattle-residing board president Steve Sundquist – begins. As noted this morning, the board will vote tonight on whether to fire Superintendent Dr. Maria Goodloe-Johnson after almost four years, amid a money-mismanagement scandal. The meetings always begin with about an hour of public comment, and it is likely to cover other topics; we’ll publish live updates as the meeting (which is likely to last at least three hours) continues.

(READ THE REST OF THE WSB AS-IT-HAPPENED COVERAGE, AND SEE VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS, AFTER THE JUMP)Read More

Share This

West Seattle Weather Watch: Scenes from a wild day
March 2, 2011 5:53 pm
|    Comments Off on West Seattle Weather Watch: Scenes from a wild day
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle weather

Hail, rain, wind, rainbows, sunshine, we’ve seen (and felt) it all today. Above, JayDee shared a view from Upper Alki, looking at one of the cells that moved through; below, our iPhone photo from Constellation Park south of Alki Point less than an hour after the 3 pm high tide, as wind-fueled waves hit the seawall:

What’s next, you ask? The forecast suggests things are calming down.

Share This

West Seattle Crime Watch: Catalytic-converter victim gets help
March 2, 2011 3:19 pm
|      15 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news | West Seattle police

First of two followups to the report two weeks ago of an “active” suspect arrested for car prowling: We learned that the “active” suspect is 28-year-old Joel Lund, arrested for allegedly cutting and stealing the catalytic converter from a Junction-area vehicle described in court documents as belonging to someone “elderly.” While Lund was out of jail within a day and a half of that February 13th arrest, he was arrested again just a day later, and remains in jail today (bail set at $20,000), charged with malicious mischief in that incident, under investigation for others. We’ve been working on a longer story about the case, but in the short run, we just learned from Southwest Precinct Lt. Pierre Davis that the victim in the February 13th case got some extra help – here’s how Lt. Davis told the story:

The victim in this case was a 78 year old resident of West Seattle who depends on her vehicle as she is still completely self-sufficient. However, the damage done to her vehicle disabled her sole mode of transportation. Our West Seattle Community Police Team officers located an automotive repair shop, The Muffler Shoppe, located at 10009 16th Ave SW. that upon learning of the circumstances, volunteered to do the necessary repairs at cost. Obviously we were excited only because we knew that we could get our victim her vehicle back without her incurring significant costs. And then the scenario got better. Upon our West Seattle Citizens learning of this issue, (they) volunteered to pay for the entire cost of repair to our victim’s vehicle and get her back on the road. Although your West Seattle officers apprehended our criminal, our WS citizens really put the icing on the cake!! Way to go West Seattle!!!!

P.S. On a related note, Lt. Davis also wanted to get the word out about a special one-day Citizens’ Police Academy – a mega-condensed version of training that is usually spread out over 2-plus months. It’s set for 9 am-5:30 pm on April 9th, location TBA. It’s not listed on the CPA’s official webpage yet – but that page DOES have contact info for the program, if you’d like to call or e-mail ASAP to sign up!

Share This

Two invitations from the new West Seattle Preschool Association
March 2, 2011 1:56 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

Several of West Seattle’s many preschools have joined forces to start the first-ever West Seattle Preschool Association, and they’re getting out the word in hopes other preschools will join in. That’s one invitation; the second – as part of the WSPA’s launch, they’re presenting the next West Seattle Preschool Fair in April.

Renee Metty of The Cove School, president of the new association, says its mission is to “bring together preschool children, their parents and their educators in order to celebrate and promote quality preschool programs, parent education and school collaboration.” They’ve sent a letter this week to as many preschools in the area whose e-mail contact information they could find; it explains that the association was inspired by a group of preschool owners/directors who started meeting in the area last summer. The group meets monthly, third Mondays at 7 pm, and there are no membership fees during the first year (unless a school wants to be a “founding member,” in which case a $25 fee is due by June 1st, and they’re planning $35 annual fees after that).

Metty says that any West Seattle preschool educators who didn’t get the WSPA’s introductory letter are invited to contact them to be added to the list – e-mail Stephanie at office@neighborhoodpreschool.com. Meantime, the West Seattle Preschool Fair is planned for 5:30 pm-7:30 pm April 4th at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, 3050 California SW. They’re still signing up schools interested in participating – first-come, first-serve; deadline is March 31st, with a discount before 3/15; call 206-923-COVE or e-mail hello@thecoveschool.com. For families visiting the fair, admission will be free. (In future years, they plan to have the fair in January, recognizing that most school decisionmaking happens early in the year.)

Share This

P-Patch progress: 4 designs shown at 34th/Barton’s 2nd meeting
March 2, 2011 11:56 am
|      31 COMMENTS
 |   Gardening | West Seattle news | Westwood

Of the four potential designs shown at last night’s second community design meeting for the new 34th/Barton P-Patch, that one won an informal vote, double the support of the second-most popular. Another informal poll indicated support for preserving the big birch tree that’s on the sprawling site (a hot topic of discussion at the first meeting, as noted in our report from last month). After the jump – the three other designs, plus toplines from last night’s meeting:Read More

Share This

West Seattle Weather Watch: Wind advisory; power outages
March 2, 2011 9:56 am
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle weather

9:56 AM: If you’re reading this in West Seattle (as opposed to, say, an off-peninsula workplace), you might have noticed a big blast of wind a few minutes ago – we’re under an official “wind advisory” right now, so not surprising we just got word of a power outage in Arbor Heights. At the moment, the Seattle City Light map shows two outages in West Seattle – one in Arbor Heights blamed on a tree – thanks to Zachary for the tip – and a smaller one in east Genesee.) The advisory is in effect till 2 pm and says we may see gusts up to 50 mph.

3:15 PM UPDATE: The advisory expired, and none are in effect for our area right now, but the wild weather has continued, including brief bursts of hail (punctuated by sunshine!).

Share This

West Seattle scene: Flamingo flock @ Alki Mail and Dispatch
March 2, 2011 9:25 am
|      6 COMMENTS
 |   Seen around town | West Seattle news

Increasing bird sightings are yet another sign of impending spring … This morning, in fact, we heard robins and Steller’s jays pre-dawn, and then we saw … pink flamingos. Thanks to the WSB’er who tipped us to the flamingo flock outside Alki Mail and Dispatch; when we went over for a photo, Alki Mail staff pointed us to the flyer saying the flock was placed by the Admiral Congregational Church youth group, who were in the flamingo-flocking-fundraiser business last year (WSB coverage here) and apparently are at it again (here’s the page on the church website).

Share This

West Seattle Crime Watch: Stolen vehicle; vandalism encore
March 2, 2011 7:55 am
|      11 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Two West Seattle Crime Watch reports to share this morning – auto theft and car vandalism, again. Both after the jump:Read More

Share This

Also tonight: Seattle School Board vote on firing the superintendent
March 2, 2011 7:29 am
|      21 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

Not in West Seattle, but affecting every Seattle Public Schools family (and taxpayer) – tonight’s Seattle School Board meeting will include a vote on whether to fire Superintendent Dr. Maria Goodloe-Johnson. The items added to the board agenda (screengrab above) tell the story, as do our partners at the Seattle Times, who have been extensively covering the newest revelations about district financial mismanagement. The Times says a closed-door board session last night was followed by a statement from board president Steve Sundquist of West Seattle, promising “swift and decisive action.” You can read his statement on the district website (PDF); the Times coverage includes links to other documents of note. For even more details and background, the district-watchdog website saveseattleschools.blogspot.com has been covering the situation closely. (Here’s what their writers and commenters hope the next superintendent will do, and be.) Though money-mismanagement reports seem to be the proverbial last straw, discontent has been simmering a while – you might recall the no-confidence votes by teachers at schools (including at least two in West Seattle) toward the end of last year. It’s been almost four years since Goodloe-Johnson was hired. Tonight’s board meeting, by the way, is open to the public, 6 pm at district HQ in SODO. (Or you can watch live on cable channel 26.)

Share This

West Seattle Wednesday: SW District Council; WSHS meeting…
March 2, 2011 6:26 am
|    Comments Off on West Seattle Wednesday: SW District Council; WSHS meeting…
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(WSB photo from Seattle Summer Streets “car-free day” on Alki last year, 5/23/2010)
Short list from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar for today/tonight: The Southwest District Council, which includes reps from community councils and other major organizations around western West Seattle, meets at 7 pm, board room at South Seattle Community College (6000 16th SW). The agenda includes a briefing on this year’s Alki “car-free day” (aka Seattle Summer Streets), coming up May 22nd (as first noted here a month ago when West Seattle 5K registration began) … Also tonight at 7, the meeting at West Seattle High School for feedback on interim principal Ruth Medsker, as previewed here … 7 pm is also the starting time for the “project knitting” class at C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor), 5612 California SW ($10) … Up early? Run your own small business? The Westside Professionals business-networking group (WSB sponsor) welcome you, 8 am, The Kenney, 7125 Fauntleroy Way (or find out about them any time on Facebook).

P.S. (added 7:17 am) – It’s an early-dismissal (2 hours) day for Seattle Public Schools students.

Share This

4 days to pre-spring cleaning for West Seattle’s longest stairway
March 1, 2011 8:23 pm
|      9 COMMENTS
 |   How to help | West Seattle news

It’s West Seattle’s longest stairway, and we’d venture to say its best-known, as a result. Seattle Stairway Walks has featured it; runners and walkers express begrudging appreciation for its 359 steps (or so – this site cites different numbers!). The Thistle Street Stairway, running between Lincoln Park and the Upper Fauntleroy/Gatewood line, is getting some TLC this Saturday, and you are invited to be part of it. Stairway fans are gathering at the bottom, 46th and Thistle (map), at 10 am Saturday for two hours of intensive cleanup. Here’s the Facebook event page, which you can use to RSVP if you choose, and organizers would love to know “if you are able to bring any of the following: scraping tools, brooms, flat shovels, or other implements of moss destruction” – yes, they mean MOSS destruction. They’re promising to “bring the yard waste bags, drinks, and a plan.” This is the second-longest stairway in the city, one of 480 stairways that are part of the public right-of-way. (Photo by Wesley Sauer)

Share This

White Center/North Highline annexation vote? Council’s next step
March 1, 2011 7:20 pm
|      10 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle politics | White Center

Following up on last week’s City Council briefing on the potential costs of White Center/North Highline annexation, the Regional Development and Sustainability Committee took a closer look today. It was the first step toward deciding whether to seek an annexation vote this fall – to ask the 20,000 residents of the potential annexation area whether they want to become part of Seattle or not. The state Growth Management Act says urban services need to be delivered by cities, so unincorporated urban areas like this one have to either become part of a city, or create their own; the latter is considered unlikely, so the decision for WC is ultimately: Seattle or Burien? Under terms of a never-finalized agreement that both cities are nonetheless currently honoring, Seattle has dibs till the end of this year. For an annexation to happen this fall, a process including the state/county Boundary Review Board has to be triggered this spring, so the big decision for this committee will come at its next meeting March 18th. You can watch Seattle Channel video of this afternoon’s meeting (public comment 2:30 in, the full agenda item at 42:30, with an unrelated urban-forestry report inbetween) by going here; we also live-chronicled meeting highlights on partner site White Center Now. (Screen-grab images: Above left, Seattle annexation supporter Kathi Wheeler; above right, Burien annexation supporter Gill Loring.)

P.S. A commenter asks about the boundaries of the proposed annexation area; here’s a King County map showing the zone under discussion, known as “Area Y.”

Share This

‘Harry Potter’ super-fan? The Admiral’s the place to be on Sunday
March 1, 2011 5:21 pm
|      7 COMMENTS
 |   Admiral Theater | Fun stuff to do | West Seattle news

The latest “Harry Potter” movie continues at the Admiral Theater this weekend, and the theater plans a special event: Fans who come to the theater in costume for the 3:40 pm matinee on Sunday will get a chance to win prizes courtesy of a super-fan who’s also bringing along her HP-themed car (which isn’t among the prizes, but IS for sale). The car belongs to Alexia Johnson, a custom-made Mini Cooper convertible that was custom-ordered from Oxford, England, in the 2006 model year. According to The Admiral’s announcement, Johnson explained, ““I have been a longtime Harry Potter fan and I wanted my British car to reflect my favorite British story. I went to the Mini dealership in 2005 and choose everything that I wanted to have on my car. It has a supercharged engine and it is manual. I love the color purple and at that time they came out with a new color, Purple Haze. That color is now discontinued but that makes my car even more special and unique.” She says an artist “took the clear coat off of the car, painted “HP” on the doors, golden snitch on the gas tank cover, Hogwarts crest (which has a lot of detail) on the hood between the stripes which are hand-painted not decals like they normally are. Finally, he put a metallic coat on the car and under street lights and in the sun light it sparkles like magic!” (52,000 miles on the odometer and she’s asking $20,000 or best offer.) The Admiral says that Johnson’s collected HP memorabilia through the years and “will be giving out some great prizes to the best costumed attendees.” Doors open at 3 pm.

(Also of note for those who haven’t seen the Oscar-nominated movie “The Social Network,” it opens Friday at the Admiral. Plus, Saturday night at midnight, it’s the monthly “Rocky Horror Picture Show” extravaganza. More details in this update e-mail from The Admiral.)

Share This

West Seattle development updates: Shoremont; Trader Joe’s
March 1, 2011 1:57 pm
|      24 COMMENTS
 |   Development | West Seattle news | West Seattle Trader Joe's

Two updates this afternoon on sites from the WSB watch list:

SHOREMONT APARTMENTS: Thanks to Patricia for sending the photo after spotting the land-use sign that went up in the past day or so outside the once-targeted-for-demolition Shoremont (2464 Alki SW). We reported back in December that a Mercer Island investor’s deal to buy it had closed; that purchase followed a period of bank (and even federal) ownership, which in turn followed a proposal 3 years ago to demolish it and put up an ultramodern complex. The new proposal is described on the sign and on the DPD website as adding one unit to each of two three-unit buildings, for eight units total. To find out what exactly that entails, we’ll likely have to check the files downtown (which we had done a few weeks ago, knowing a proposal was in the works, but nothing had been filed yet). The DPD website says a formal comment period will open with this Thursday’s Land Use Information Bulletin.

TRADER JOE’S SITE: It’s been three whole weeks since our last update, so if you’re among those starved for incremental info, here’s the latest bit of news: The DPD officially “accepted the application” last Thursday for the main part of the project to turn the old Huling Brothers Buick showroom site (4545 Fauntleroy Way) into a new Trader Joe’s store (rendering at right). As we had written last month, there had been some back-and-forth about parking on the site and other details, but “application accepted” is one milestone toward the permit being granted. As we noted while reviewing the file last month, TJ’s thinks construction will take about six months, so assuming a permit’s granted before long, the current realistic timetable for opening is probably fall.

Share This

Challenge time! West Seattle/White Center Food Bank donations count extra, starting now
March 1, 2011 11:14 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   How to help | West Seattle news

March means the start of the annual two-month Feinstein Challenge – and that means your donation, in money or material, to West Seattle Food Bank or White Center Food Bank (which also serves southernmost WS) counts for more than its face value, if you designate it as part of the challenge. Here’s the official announcement from your two local food banks:

The White Center Food Bank and West Seattle Food Bank are seeing a record number of families come to their doors for assistance. During March and April your donations to help neighbors in need can go farther.

For the 14th consecutive year, Allan Shawn Feinstein will divide $1,000,000 among hunger relief agencies nationwide through his Feinstein Challenge. All donations made between March 1 and April 30th, 2011, and that are specifically designated “Feinstein Challenge,” will count towards the challenge total and help these agencies receive a larger percentage of the million dollars.

For the White Center Food Bank, donations may be mailed to 10829 8th Avenue SW, Seattle, WA 98146. To make a donation online or for information about the White Center Food Bank’s programs benefited by the $1 Million Challenge, visit www.whitecenterfoodbank.org or contact Rick Jump at (206) 762-2848, or e-mail rick@whitecenterfoodbank.org.

For the West Seattle Food Bank, donations may be mailed to 3419 SW Morgan, Seattle, WA 98126. To make a donation online or for information about the West Seattle Food Bank’s programs benefited by the $1 Million Challenge, visit www.westseattlefoodbank.org or contact Fran Yeatts at (206) 932-9023, or e-mail fran@westseattlefoodbank.org.

For information about the Feinstein Foundation and the $1 Million Challenge, visit www.feinsteinfoundation.org

As the need for our services continues to increase significantly, your donations are now more important than ever.

The Feinstein Foundation says its annual Challenge is “the most successful ongoing effort ever to fight hunger” – so your donation makes you part of that.

Share This

West Seattle Tuesday: Digging into the first day of March
March 1, 2011 9:50 am
|    Comments Off on West Seattle Tuesday: Digging into the first day of March
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

We have traffic alerts large and small, to start the day … reminder in case you missed our update last week, the Fairmount/Forest intersection continues to be a major digging zone, and Craig – who shared those shots from Monday – says they’re down about 25 feet. The emergency work to replace a broken sewer main (blamed for this sinkhole) is expected to continue at least another week. … On a larger scale, SDOT says the westbound Spokane Street Viaduct will be CLOSED AGAIN TONIGHT for the fourth time in the past week as part of the ongoing widening project – 10 pm-5 am, that’s the section of the bridge between I-5 and Highway 99. The Harbor Island offramp from the bridge will be closed those same hours tonight, tomorrow night, and Thursday night.

Also tonight:

SECOND P-PATCH DESIGN MEETING: Bigger plots? Smaller plots? Keep the tree? Remove the tree? Much still to be decided as the planning of the 34th/Barton P-Patch design continues – but this is the last community meeting at which it’s all still on the table. 6:30 pm, Southwest Community Center (2801 SW Thistle; here’s our coverage of the first meeting).

FAMILY STORY TIME AT DELRIDGE LIBRARY: Tonight, children’s librarian Amy leads Story Time at the Delridge/Brandon library branch, 7 pm.

‘TASTE OF DREAM DINNERS’ OPEN HOUSE: Sample the March menu at Dream Dinners-West Seattle (WSB sponsor) and see what it’s like to assemble a dinner – drop in at 5:30, 6 or 6:30 pm (call 206-938-5999 if you have questions ahead of time), 4701 41st SW on the east side of outer Jefferson Square.

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL TRIVIA: Tuesday nights mean rock trivia with cash prizes at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 6451 California SW, 8 pm.

More on the calendar!

Share This

West Seattle youth sports: New bicycling club; WS Soccer reminder
March 1, 2011 8:36 am
|    Comments Off on West Seattle youth sports: New bicycling club; WS Soccer reminder
 |   West Seattle news | WS & Sports

Two youth-sports notes this morning:

NEW CROSS-COUNTRY MOUNTAIN-BIKE-RACING LEAGUE: The Washington High School Cycling League is forming statewide, with a “composite club” being set up in this area for high-school students (public, private, or homeschool – it’s not affiliated with any specific school or program). Prerequisites are “a working mountain bike and a bike helmet,” but experience not required, say organizers – league events will include riding-skills clinics, safety guidelines, and equipment awareness. The first race is in early April; if you are interested in joining as a rider or as a ride leader/volunteer, e-mail West Seattle club director Nikole Rock, nkrck@yahoo.com.

LAST DAY FOR WEST SEATTLE SOCCER CLUB SPRING SIGNUPS: Today is the final day of registration for the West Seattle Soccer Club‘s spring season; as of tomorrow, players will only be accepted on a “space-available basis.” Games are played at eight fields around West Seattle; this year’s theme is “Champion’s League,” after a major European competition – each team represents one of the clubs in that league (and gets to keep her/his jersey). For signup info, go to this WSSC webpage.

Share This

WS Crime Watch: 41st/Edmunds drug suspect charged, sought
February 28, 2011 10:56 pm
|      33 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

(February 8th photo by Christopher Boffoli for WSB)
Ever since the police operation at 41st/Edmunds three weeks ago, we’ve been watching for charges to be filed against the man arrested that night, 40-year-old James Monroe Flowers, Jr. (At right is a photo of him that we obtained from the state Department of Corrections.) Those charges finally have been filed, and there’s a $100,000 warrant out for his arrest – he was out of jail within 24 hours of the bust. Prosecutors have filed two drug charges and one count of unlawful firearms possession. The first drug charge alleges that he “delivered [crack] cocaine” and the second alleges that he possessed cocaine with intent to manufacture or deliver it. The charging documents list a criminal history going back to 1990 and say he is a member of a known “street gang,” while also revealing more about what led up to the arrest and charges – read on:Read More

Share This

West Seattle biznotes: From demolition, to moving, to changes, to new yoga studio
February 28, 2011 7:39 pm
|      8 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

Six West Seattle business notes to share this evening (and more in the works!) …

(Photo by Deanie Schwarz for WSB)
SOUTH DELRIDGE DEMOLITION: The former Circle K/gas-station property at 9061 Delridge Way (map), idle for several years, is undergoing digging/demolition work; the gas tanks will be taken out this Thursday, reports WSB contributor Deanie Schwarz, who spoke with the crew, apparently in preparation for potential sale. (County records show Circle K still owns the site.)

ON SAFARI MOVES ON: We’ve received a few notes from people who’ve noticed that catering company On Safari Foods has cleared out of its longtime kitchen location on 35th just south of Henderson. Our inquiry to its owner hasn’t been answered yet, but according to On Safari’s Facebook page, it’s just moved to a new HQ on 3rd Avenue South in SODO. That makes it the second catering company, after Herban Feast, to move to SODO from WS. (More on the former HF location later in this roundup … ) UPDATE: Minutes after we published this, On Safari’s Teresa Carew replied:

There were a few reasons for our move: we had outgrown our space, as our Google account and general business expanded; we also felt that for the sake of our customers and our business, we had to move before Hwy 99 came down.

I have been searching for a kitchen for a couple of years now, and this one became available. It is the old Organics to Go kitchen. We have moved from 2200 sq. ft. to 5000 sq. ft! Our cooks are in heaven.

At On Safari Foods, our main focus is on creating the type of experience that makes our customers come back time and time again. Our food is lovingly prepared, with fine, fresh, all natural and wherever possible, organic ingredients.

We are going to miss our old location. I really wanted to put a lovely gastro-pub in our location, but do not have the means to do so at the moment – there is not much in the way of a cool neighborhood pub in that area – any investors around?

May I brag on behalf of all our fabulous cooks? Every year Google does a survey of all its cafes to determine how the employees find their cafe operators. There are about 85 Google cafes around the world. Our cafe in Fremont ranked among the top four in the world for satisfaction with quality of food and service!

BIRD ON A WIRE CHANGE: On Safari’s now-former location included the original home of Bird on a Wire Espresso, whose Westwood location is currently around the corner on SW Henderson. Bird’s latest e-mail newsletter notes that they plan to cease beer/wine sales at that location, to focus on coffee. They also have a new initiative at the new-ish 2nd location in Admiral (2604 California SW) – “Bring a same-day receipt from any Admiral business and get a free sweet (with coffee purchase)!”

MEANDER’S: The cozy eatery that opened in the ex-Jade West space last month (6032 California SW) has received rave reviews and is starting to add lunch items, as well as looking at expanding into adjacent space – here’s the latest from its proprietor Miranda Krone.

COASTAL TO REOPEN: After closing for a winter hiatus, the boutique Coastal on Alki is reopening this weekend, first for weekend-only hours, then fulltime starting in April.

SPIRA POWER YOGA ON THE WAY: The former Herban Feast location across from Admiral Theater has a new tenant on the way – Spira Power Yoga. After a WSB’er noticed a sign in the empty storefront and pointed us to this website, we contacted proprietor Dora Gyarmati for more information. She tells WSB she’s hoping to open May 15th, and explains why she chose West Seattle for her studio:

I love the energy in West Seattle. It has a very loving, relaxed, vibe. Also, people tend to be very active, walking, biking. All of these make it a perfect audience for the type of yoga I will be offering. I have a lot of friends that live in West Seattle, and a lot of my students drive from West Seattle to Bellevue or downtown Seattle just to take my classes….They have been begging, it is time! West Seattle needs a Power Flow studio!

More on her new studio after the jump:Read More

Share This

The other transportation agreement councilmembers voted on today: South Park Bridge $
February 28, 2011 4:37 pm
|      6 COMMENTS
 |   South Park | Transportation | West Seattle news

(King County rendering of new South Park Bridge design)
You’ve heard a lot about the Highway 99 tunnel today (we’ve added more to our ongoing coverage, with still more to come). But that’s not all the City Council did today – they also finalized agreements related to the new South Park Bridge, for which they’re forking over $15 million. Here’s their announcement. As reported here last month, the bridge-replacement project has gone out to bid; one week from tomorrow, on March 8th, the resulting bids are to be opened – construction then could start as soon as May, per the county’s website for the project.

Share This

Feedback meeting for West Seattle High School’s interim principal
February 28, 2011 2:46 pm
|      10 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

Courtesy of the West Seattle High School PTSA mailing list, a chance to offer feedback before the district decides whether to make WSHS’s interim principal permanent:

Parents and community members are invited to meet with Aurora Lora, Executive Director of West Seattle Schools, to provide feedback on how the school year is going under the leadership of interim principal, Ruth Medsker. Ms. Lora will use feedback from a variety of sources to make a recommendation to the superintendent about whether to make Ms. Medsker’s role as principal at West Seattle High School permanent.

The meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 2nd, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the West Seattle High School Library. If you are unable to attend this meeting, you may provide your feedback directly to Aurora Lora at aalora@seattleschools.org. Ms. Lora will be making her recommendation to the superintendent on Friday, March 4th.

As we reported when her appointment was announced last June, Medsker’s previous experience in Seattle Public Schools included working in central administration as middle-school director after serving as principal of Mercer Middle School. WSHS’s previous principal Bruce Bivins left after last school year for a job in California; the school’s two assistant principals departed as well, so WSHS has been running this year with all-new leadership at the top.

Share This

Birth of a P-Patch: Last chance to have a say on 34th/Barton design
February 28, 2011 12:50 pm
|      8 COMMENTS
 |   Gardening | West Seattle news | Westwood

(WSB photo from February 13th)
Tomorrow (Tuesday) night is the second and final community meeting for the design of the new 34th/Barton P-Patch – the public meeting after that will unveil the design that results – so the volunteers who are working on the project are hoping to see you tomorrow night, regardless of whether you were at meeting #1 (which drew a sizable turnout, as we reported two weeks ago). 6:30 pm tomorrow, Southwest Community Center.

Share This

Tunnel tussle: City Council votes 8-1 to override mayor’s veto
February 28, 2011 9:38 am
|      90 COMMENTS
 |   Alaskan Way Viaduct | West Seattle news

(EDITOR’S NOTE: Story now includes video of mayor’s reaction post-override, as well as other updates including the new referendum effort)

(Council meeting video from Seattle Channel updated 4:08 pm)
9:38 AM: Live now on the Seattle Channel (cable 21, online at www.seattlechannel.org), the City Council’s special meeting to consider overriding the mayor’s veto of tunnel-related bills. It’s starting with 30 minutes of public comments. First up: West Seattle Chamber of Commerce CEO Patti Mullen. The Chamber is on the record as supporting the tunnel, which she called “the best solution for Seattle … and for West Seattle.” Second up, also from West Seattle, Vlad Oustimovitch, presenting the letter you first read here 2 weeks ago, signed by him and other Stakeholders Advisory Group members from the original process that ended with the tunnel being announced as the “preferred alternative.” More to come; we’ll add notes of interest along the way, along with the vote when it happens.

9:49 AM: Council President Richard Conlin had noted that they had double the number of signups from tunnel opponents wanting to speak than from tunnel supporters, so supporters got 10 minutes, and tunnel opponents are now starting their 20 minutes. They include both elevated and surface supporters, as well as those who favor retrofitting the existing viaduct.

10:12 AM: Public comment’s over. Councilmembers are commenting, starting with President Conlin. “I understand some people don’t like the tunnel. It wasn’t my choice, for a long time,” he begins, going on to note that the contracts the mayor has vetoed “are in the best interest of the people of Seattle” and should be supported even by tunnel opponents because “they provide legal protections for the people of Seattle.” Councilmember Sally Clark says for her, it’s also about “protecting” the citizens, even as she acknowledges the city remains split on the subject of the tunnel itself. Councilmember Mike O’Brien is next to speak: “On this project, I am still baffled as to why all of you still support this.” He says the project itself will lead to increased “greenhouse-gas emissions,” even as a state law requires they be reduced in the years ahead. He then addresses the topic of jobs, which many speakers on both sides brought up: “This project isn’t the answer … 480 jobs for a $2 billion project.” He says money would be better spent on other projects including I-5 work. He then says he’s disturbed by a “lack of outrage” over “priorities on what we are spending our money on” and mentions state cuts in education and health-care funding. And he calls for a public vote, saying that it would cost $50,000-$100,000 to add a tunnel question onto the August ballot. He plans to introduce a measure later today asking for that vote and pleads for the five votes he says he needs for it to move on.

10:24 AM: Now, West Seattle-residing Councilmember Tom Rasmussen, who says he appreciates that Councilmember O’Brien has been against the tunnel from the start, and clear about it; he then pokes at the mayor for allegedly not being consistent. For some, it’s jobs, says Rasmussen, but “on this 10th anniversary of the earthquake, it’s about lives … we have a responsibility to protect people’s lives,” regarding replacing the viaduct. He mentions the new automated-closure gates on viaduct entries, saying, “This viaduct is fragile and we can only prop it up for so long.” After him, Councilmember Nick Licata, saying that those who support the surface option “don’t have any leaders” and accusing them of subterfuge for not being clear that’s what they’re backing. “Yeah, (the tunnel) may go over, we don’t know, but we do have $2.2 billion (for it) … but we have zero (state dollars) for the surface and transit option. … It’s easy to be against this. It’s hard to be FOR something.” (He is the most fiery speaker we’ve seen yet.) He concludes, “If you think cutting off our nose to spite our face is a good strategy … it is a stupid strategy!” (PHOTO CREDIT: Erika Schultz/Seattle Times) The gallery gets heated, and then Councilmember Bruce Harrell stands up and chides, “Look at us with our signs disrespecting one another … This is not Seattle at its best.” He insists the city “is not liable” for overruns. “I would never support anything that would put us on the hook for cost overruns.” Harrell restates that he respects those who oppose the tunnel, but hopes they will know that regarding the council’s vote, “We’re doing it with conviction, integrity, and a (belief) that long after we are dust, we’re leaving something better for our children and grandchildren.”

10:38 AM: Councilmember Jean Godden says, after noting the longrunning debate, “Now we have had the Seattle Process and it’s time to make a decision.” Council President Conlin follows with the stats on that “process” – 700 public meetings, 15,000 public comments (after showing photos of the collapsed elevated freeway from the 1989 Bay Area quake, and AWV damage after the 2001 Nisqually quake). “The region has been engaged in a passionate debate … for 10 years. … We have come to a common solution, and the (city) has crafted a set of agreements that protect our residents and work for our state and regional partners. … As the anniversary of the Nisqually quake reminds us, this is not just a transportation project, this is about safety. … We were elected to make decisions … as stewards (of the city).”

10:46 AM: Veto overridden, 8-1 (O’Brien the dissenter). To read the full legislation – go here.

3:11 PM: The mayor is speaking with reporters now – watch it live here. He insists the public should be able to vote on the tunnel – either through the proposal that Councilmember Mike O’Brien is introducing this afternoon, or through the referendum announced to gather signatures to put today’s council vote on the ballot. (We’ll add video of the mayor’s Q/A event here when it’s available for embedding. Added – here’s the video:)

3:48 PM: The new “Protect Seattle” coalition of anti-tunnel groups that wants to put the council-approved agreements on the ballot as a referendum have posted their announcement online, here.

4:54 PM: West Seattle tunnel supporters Vlad Oustimovitch, who was the 2nd speaker before the council this morning (as noted above), and Pete Spalding co-wrote a pro-override editorial in today’s Seattle Times (WSB partner) – here’s the link. Also, here’s a written copy of Oustimovitch’s testimony for the meeting.

Share This