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WEST SEATTLE ART: Help shape project at site of new 1.25 million-gallon overflow-storage tank
December 17, 2023 2:50 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   Environment | West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

(Project rendering)

Another public-art project is in the works for West Seattle, and a survey has just opened to seek your feedback in shaping it. From the King County Wastewater Treatment District‘s announcement:

King County will build a 1.25-million-gallon underground storage tank on the west side of the First Avenue Bridge to reduce sewage and stormwater overflows into the Duwamish River during large storms. Water stored in the West Duwamish Wet Weather Facility will flow to the West Point Treatment Plant for cleaning before it is safely released into the Puget Sound. To learn more about the project, visit the project website.

Fencing Panel Art

Help shape the facility’s public appearance by sharing your perspectives about the Duwamish River valley! Fencing designed by Seattle artist Ann Marie Schneider will ring the new facility. Input from the community will be incorporated into the fence-panels art. We would love to learn how you see this dynamic river valley landscape can be integrated into the facility fencing appearance to reflect our commitment to stewardship in concert with the resiliency of our river.

The project had a separate community survey last year; results were part of a briefing at HPAC‘s meeting last April. To answer the new survey, which is open until January 24, go here. The facility is expected to start construction in 2025.

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WEST SEATTLE SCENE: Holiday Makers’ Market in North Delridge
December 17, 2023 12:46 pm
|    Comments Off on WEST SEATTLE SCENE: Holiday Makers’ Market in North Delridge
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

Inside a vintage commercial building that is currently home to a photography studio, you’ll find the first Sweet Reel Makers’ Market until 4 pm. Your host at 5001 Delridge Way SW is photographer Angie Norwood Browne:

The cozy space is hosting 11 makers and artists – the needle-felted animals by Paula Wittmann caught our eye, including ornaments:

The West Seattle Art Walk‘s former longtime coordinator, artist Reeve Washburn, is there with her work too:

The listing for the market also promised “trinkets” – we noticed vintage china and jewelry:

(The building is vintage too – we mentioned it in 2021, when renovations briefly uncovered a “ghost sign.”) For more info on the market, including the list of artists/makers participating, see our calendar listing.

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Celebration of life planned February 4 for Lane Townsend, 1927-2023
December 17, 2023 10:30 am
|      8 COMMENTS
 |   Obituaries | West Seattle news

Family and friends will gather February 4 to celebrate the life of Lane Townsend. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing with the community:

Margaret Elaine “Lane” (Wise) Townsend

Lane Townsend, 96, passed away peacefully in her sleep on December 13, 2023. She was born in Seattle, Washington on October 27, 1927 to Robert Wise and Beatrice (Bryan) Wise. She was preceded in death by her husband Ivan Townsend and brothers Ken and Gordon “Oly” Wise. She is survived by her children Steve (Kay), Dave (Jan), Carl (Jennine), and Keith (Yvonne) Townsend, nine grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. As matriarch of the family, she was a generous and beloved mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and good friend to all who knew her.

Lane grew up in West Seattle at 1301 Harbor Avenue. As a young girl she rode the street car to Alki Elementary School and later took dance lessons in the ballroom of the Stockade Hotel. After graduating from West Seattle High School (class of ’45) and attending Whitman College in Walla Walla, she graduated with degrees in Political Science and Music from the University of Washington, where she met and fell in love with Ivan. They were married in 1950.

A loving wife and a very involved mother, Lane was always engaged in activities with Ivan and her four boys. Whether she was serving as a Den Mother for Cub Scouts, presiding over the Lafayette Elementary School PTA, or organizing parent groups for James Madison Jr. High and West Seattle High School band and orchestra students, she generously gave the gift of time to her West Seattle community.

Lane inherited her love of music from her father, and it followed her to the end of her life. A benefactor and season ticket holder for Seattle Symphony Orchestra and Seattle Opera for many years, she loved performances of Puccini’s Tosca, Wagner’s Der Ring des Nibelungen, and Verdi’s Aida. In her final days she would listen to classical music and gracefully conduct with her fingers in the air, which brought her peace and tranquility.

She had a fierce love for family and was brokenhearted when her father died. Through the years she remained very close to her mother, spending every Friday with her. Giving the gift of time, they would go grocery shopping, run errands, go somewhere fun… and she always had Gramma at our home for Friday night dinner.

After her father’s passing, Lane inherited his forest land, where she and Ivan learned how to be tree farmers. They built a cabin in the woods and acquired her father’s love of trees. Successful at forest management, they were recognized as Washington State’s Tree Farmers of the Year in 1977. Together, they shared their experience and knowledge of forestry with other members of the Washington Farm Forestry Association. The Tree Farm was one of Mom’s happy places and the forest and cabin have been the location of our annual family reunion (and Uncle Kenny’s salmon bake) for more than 55 years.

Playing competitive tennis, bowling with West Seattle bowling leagues, and water aerobics at the YMCA kept Lane physically active all of her life. Reading the local newspaper daily held her finger on the pulse of local and national information and politics. Combining fitness with her mental acumen and zeal for life surely contributed to her longevity. She loved to travel and loved sharing her travel experiences with others. Some of her adventures took her to Mexico, Europe, Australia, China, Russia, and Egypt. Hiking to the tops of pyramids, walking the Great Wall of China, and riding camels were all parts of her adventures!

A few years after Ivan’s passing, Lane sold her home of 44 years and bought a condominium across the street from Don Armeni Park. Located at 1301 Harbor Avenue, it was the exact same address as where she grew up, but on the 4th floor of a beautiful building with a sweeping view of the Space Needle and downtown Seattle. And there was always a ferry boat sailing through Elliott Bay! Watching people walk, jog, ride bicycles, and roller skate along the waterfront was a favorite pastime. Always the adventurer, sometimes she would walk down the street to the biker bar for a cold beer.

Convalescing after a broken hip in 2015 prompted a move to an adult care home, where she enjoyed culture in Bellevue for the past 8 years. Lane and her brother, Oly, her partner and coach in her hip rehabilitation, would take invigorating walks together, often climbing several flights of stairs. Just as she did with her mother, it was Lane’s children and grandchildren who continued sharing their gifts of time. Attending local theatre productions, concerts, street fairs, and summer picnics in the park were all cherished outings. And of course dining at her favorite Mexican restaurant, El Tapatio!

In her twilight days, Lane was at peace with herself. She had seen everything she wanted to see, done everything she wanted to do, and traveled everywhere she wanted to go. Satisfied that everything in her life was good, she would say, “I’ve have had a good life. But, for cryin’ out loud, I’m 96 years old. The party is over and it’s time to go home.”

A Celebration of Life will be held at noon, February 4, 2024 in Bellevue, Washington. Contact Columbia Funeral Home at 206-722-1100 or a family member for details.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Southwest Seattle Historical Society, Seattle Symphony, or Washington Tree Farm Program.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)

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‘Polar Express,’ ‘Wonderful Life,’ markets, Pathfinder wreaths, concerts, Christmas Light Run, more for your West Seattle Sunday
December 17, 2023 6:12 am
|    Comments Off on ‘Polar Express,’ ‘Wonderful Life,’ markets, Pathfinder wreaths, concerts, Christmas Light Run, more for your West Seattle Sunday
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Reader photo)

Again today, the daily preview is in two sections – starting with listings from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide:

HOLIDAY FUN PHOTOS WITH GAIL ANN: 8:30 am-noon sessions at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse – Santa will be there! – book your time here.

DUWAMISH LONGHOUSE NATIVE ART MARKET: One more chance to see and buy the creations of Native artists, 10 am-5:30 pm at the Duwamish Tribe Longhouse (4705 W. Marginal Way SW).

(Photo courtesy Pathfinder K-8 PTSA)

PATHFINDER WREATH SALES DURING FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm on the southwest corner of California/Alaska, look for Pathfinder K-8‘s famous handmade wreaths and other “door decor”! And if you can’t get to the market, you can still buy wreaths online – pathfinderk8ptsa.org/shop.” Fundraiser for outdoor education.

LESSONS & CAROLS #1: 10 am at West Side Presbyterian Church (3601 California SW): “We will combine for one special service of Lessons and Carols. This service of timeless carols will include WSPC’s choir, instrumentalists and musicians from the NW Symphony Orchestra.”

SMALL BUSINESS POP-UP MARKET: 10 am-2 pm at Jet City Labs (4547 California SW).

HOLIDAY MAKERS’ MARKET: 11 am-4 pm (5001 Delridge Way SW) – see the participants’ list here.

LAUREN’S JEWELRY OPEN FOR SHOPPING: Shop local, shop indie! Bonus day for holiday shopping at WSB sponsor Lauren’s Jewelry in Westwood Village, open today 11 am-4 pm.

‘THE MAGICAL DOLLMAKER’: “Dance! West Seattle is celebrating its 40th year in West Seattle with their annual performance of ‘The Magical Doll Maker.’ The show is at 1:30 pm at Highline Performing Arts Center (401 S. 152nd, Burien). Tickets will be available for purchase at the theater the day of the performance.”

‘THE POLAR EXPRESS’: Classic movie (trailer above)! Free screening at Admiral Church (4320 SW Hill), 2 pm. Popcorn and cookies!

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’: The radio-play edition of Twelfth Night Productions‘ beloved show at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW), last show at 3 pm today – get tickets and details on the Brown Paper Tickets website.

‘SNOWED IN’ SOLD OUT: ArtsWest (4711 California SW; WSB sponsor) presents its holiday production, “a journey of song, dance, friendship, family, and the true meaning of the holidays.” 3 pm today, but no online tickets are available – you can doublecheck with the box office.

FAUNTLEROY CONCERT: Christmas concert at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW), 4 pm, all welcome.

CHRISTMAS LIGHT RUN: Gather at 5 pm at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) and jingle on out along a route passing festively lit homes. Hang out at the shop afterward for nog, cider, hot chocolate, and cookies. (Here’s the map.)

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, opening at 5 pm. Tickets and info here.

LESSONS & CAROLS #2: Northwest Boychoir‘s annual “Festival of Lessons and Carols” at Holy Rosary Church, 7 pm. Check for tickets here. (42nd SW/SW Genesee)

Now, your non-holiday options, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

WESTIES RUN CLUB: Meet at 9 am at rotating locations – today it’s Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW).

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm, the market is open as usual between SW Alaska and SW Oregon on California, offering late-fall fruit and vegetables as well as cheese, fish, meat, baked goods, condiments, fresh-cooked food, beverages (from cider to kombucha to beer/wine), nuts, candy, more – even Christmas trees (last chance to get yours from Three Tree Farms)! Here’s today’s vendor list.

TEA AND SCI-FI SOCIAL MEETUP: 1 pm, online, explained in our calendar listing.

CLASSIC NOVELS (AND MOVIES) BOOK CLUB: 3 pm gathering at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), discussing “Snow Country” by Yasunari Kawabata.

SUNDAY NIGHT JAZZ: Triangular Jazztet at The Alley (4509 California SW), 8 pm and 9 pm sets.

Something for our calendar – one-time or recurring? Or for the West Seattle Holiday Guide? Please email us the info – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Window of ‘old Subaru’ smashed
December 16, 2023 10:46 pm
|      16 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

One West Seattle Crime Watch reader report today, from Eric:

Went out to the car this afternoon to do some Christmas things around West Seattle, and discovered that the driver’s side of my old Subie had been vandalized. There was nothing in the car except a small dog bed, which was still in the car when I discovered the damage. Police report has been filed and there are plenty cameras around here, so maybe something will turn up. This probably happened in the early hours of this morning, Dec. 16th.

Eric says this happened “just south of Jefferson Square on 41st Ave SW, close to the Hudson Steps” and that a neighbor reported a similar incident recently.

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SUNDAY: West Seattle Runner’s Christmas Light Run (updated with route)
December 16, 2023 9:19 pm
|    Comments Off on SUNDAY: West Seattle Runner’s Christmas Light Run (updated with route)
 |   Holidays | West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

(WSB photo)(WSB photo – 2022’s Christmas Light Run participants. Will you be in this year’s photo?)

9:19 PM: One more Christmas-lights note … tomorrow’s the night you can join West Seattle neighbors and friends on a casual run to go see some brightly lit West Seattle homes: West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor) presents its annual Christmas Light Run! Gather at the shop (2743 California SW) by 5 pm Sunday (December 17). If you haven’t already seen it in our Event Calendar and Holiday Guide, here’s what it’s all about:

Come for our fun annual tradition! We will map out a 2.5-to 3=mile route that is lit! Wear your reflective gear, head lamps, strands of lights, and festive gear!! Elves, Santas, dogs, kids, walkers and runners welcome. This is an easypaced group run to look at the festive lights. We will gather at the shop afterward for nog, cider, hot chocolate, and cookies. We are hoping someone will lead carols this year finally? We look forward to seeing you. Merry Merry!

11:25 PM: Here’s the route.

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WEST SEATTLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: On the fence
December 16, 2023 6:30 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle Christmas lights | West Seattle news

Tonight’s lights are at 18th/Trenton, shown on video sent by AC. If you don’t recognize what’s on the fence, it’s this Marvel character. But AC says the theme changes often – it’s programmable; here are some examples:

Going out to look at lights? Let us know if you have recommendations – westseattleblog@gmail.com; scroll through this archive to see what we’ve shown already!

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WEST SEATTLE WEATHER: Fall’s sixth-to-last sunset
December 16, 2023 4:55 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle weather

Still some color left on the horizon after this spectacular sunset, sixth-to-last of fall before the winter solsticr (post-sunset on Thursday). Thanks to James Bratsanos for the first two photos, above and below:

ADDED: From Jamie Kinney:

Lot of people out sunset-watching at Constellation Park, as Tony Tschanz shows us:

And the pink clouds lingered – here’s a later view from Chris Frankovich:

Another partly sunny day expected tomorrow!

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SPORTS: New soccer club West Seattle Junction FC to debut next year. Here’s one simple way to assist
December 16, 2023 1:23 pm
|      35 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS & Sports

Love soccer? Get ready to support the newly formed West Seattle Junction FC. Here’s the announcement about the team, which starts play next spring, but needs a show of community support right now:

West Seattle Junction FC, a pre-pro U-23 soccer club, is forming in our community and will debut in a series of 14 home/away matches and friendlies starting in mid-May 2024. Formed by a team of soccer enthusiasts that have supported our youth soccer community for over 25 years, this venture will bring a much needed platform for our most talented athletes to showcase their skills. The Club’s men’s team is planned for 2024 and the women’s team in 2025, competing in the USL W league.

The club aims to foster a strong connection to a hyper-local fanbase and create a memorable experience for fans, players, and everyone involved. They also intend to have a positive impact both on and off the field. Ticket sales will begin in early February with their schedule announcements and will be priced between $13.00 – $15.00 per ticket with a block of tickets set aside at no cost to provide accessibility to the entire fan base.

The team has already begun preparations for the upcoming season and will announce early January tryouts at Delridge Playfield within the next week through their social media pages. The coaching staff is currently being assembled, and they promise to bring a wealth of experience and expertise, ensuring that West Seattle Junction FC is well-prepared for the challenges and triumphs of USL2 competition. Competitors will include Ballard FC, the 2023 National Champions, OlyTown FC, PDX FC, and many more Northwest Division teams.

West Seattle Junction FC invites the community to join them on this exciting journey. Stay tuned for upcoming announcements, events, and opportunities to get involved. Follow the team on social media for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses as they prepare to make their mark in USL2.

Special note: Formation is not without its challenges. Their desired home field, Southwest Athletic Complex, a perfect location to host the West Seattle community and a soccer match, requires an application process through Parks and SPS.

Questions and concerns related to the Club’s use of the field persist and they have been unable to properly secure the 7 field reservations needed to host their home matches. The club would greatly appreciate a community show of support by providing written support in the Blog comments and/or an email that can be forwarded by the Club to the parties reviewing their application with your vote of support. Highline Soccer Association and its board members have all rendered full letters of support to the decision makers and now it’s time for the community to weigh in.

Email address is info@junctionfc.org – website (as linked above) is junctionfc.org.

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READER REPORTS: Downed light poles along stairway; trailer blocking path
December 16, 2023 12:58 pm
|      6 COMMENTS
 |   Safety | West Seattle news

Two reader reports that are FYIs if you’re out on foot:

DOWNED LIGHT POLES: The photo shows one of three that John noticed:

3 of the new light poles have been knocked down/damaged on the steps between Delridge and 20th on Holden.

John believes it happened during the past 48 hours.

TRAILER BLOCKING PATH: Ryan wonders if this trailer blocking a path at 47th/Stevens is abandoned/stolen:

In addition to reporting issues like these via Find It Fix It, you can also contact SDOT’s after-hours regarding right-of-way issues (stairways and paths as well as streets) at 206-386-1218.

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WEST SEATTLE WEEKEND SCENE: C & P Coffee’s Holiday Craft Fair
December 16, 2023 10:53 am
|    Comments Off on WEST SEATTLE WEEKEND SCENE: C & P Coffee’s Holiday Craft Fair
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

Every holiday season, C & P Coffee (5612 California; WSB sponsor) opens its doors to local artists and crafters to sell their work, and today’s the day. Among this year’s participants is local artist Jennifer Carrasco, participating in the C & P fair one last time:

She’s scaling down what’s been a prolific painting career. Other sights include these wood figures by Josh and Jim from Vashon Island:

And nature-inspired art by Alma from A Wild Braid:

See what treasures you find by visiting the C & P fair before 2 pm.

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WEST SEATTLE SATURDAY: 26 notes!
December 16, 2023 6:16 am
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Friday night’s sunset – now a bit later every day! – photographed by Brian Michel)

Welcome to Saturday! Here’s what’s happening in West Seattle – first, the holiday-related lineup, from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide:

C & P HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR: 8 am-2 pm, shop local at C & P Coffee Company (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor) with local makers there to show and sell their creations.

DUWAMISH LONGHOUSE NATIVE ART MARKET: Missed the one after Thanksgiving? Here’s another chance to see and buy the creations of Native artists, 10 am-5:30 pm each day at the Duwamish Tribe Longhouse (4705 W. Marginal Way SW).

SANTA AT MY THREE LITTLE BIRDS: At 4736 California SW in The Junction:

Santa is making his annual visit to Three Little Birds: 10 am-1 pm. Families can sign in and then will be called when their turn comes. They CAN take their own photos, or have us take them as well, tell Santa what their Christmas wish is, and then get a treat to go. The cost is $5 per family.

ART UNWRAPPED!: Noon-5 pm at Jet City Labs (4547 California SW), “artist community meetup and pop-up market.”

ALEX BAIRD AT THRIFTWAY: Live holiday music at West Seattle Thriftway (4201 SW Morgan; WSB sponsor) with Alex Baird, noon-3 pm.

MARKET AND ANNIVERSARY: From Allison at Cascadia Wicks, one of the vendors: 1-5 pm market – with Santa at 4 pm – at Future Primitive’s White Center location, where FP is celebrating its 5th anniversary. Cascadia Wicks will be donating 10% of candle sales to White Center Food Bank. (9832 14th SW)

SEATTLE METROPOLITAN SINGERS: “A Ceremony of Winter Carols,” 3 pm, St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church (3050 California SW).

SANTA PUB CRAWL: Wear your Santa suit and join neighbors roaming between Junction bars and pubs. 5 pm-11 pm (locations here). Raising money for Furry Faces Foundation.

SANTA AT MENASHE FAMILY LIGHTS: St. Nick is scheduled to appear at West Seattle’s favorite Christmas-lights display (5605 Beach Drive SW) with two of his reindeer, 5-9 pm – hot cocoa will be served; and donations will b collected:

Donation Collections for WestSide Baby and West Seattle Food Bank. Donation bins will be set up at the Menashe home 5 – 9 pm. Most needed items for WestSide Baby: winter coats, hats and gloves, pajamas, rain books, blankets, books and toys, Pull Ups (sizes 2T – 5T) and diapers (sizes 3 – 6). Most needed items for the West Seattle Food Bank: non-perishable food (not opened, in good condition), shelf stable milk, healthy snacks, low-sodium and no-sugar foods, and pet food and kitty litter for their Pet Pantry.

ASTRA LUMINA: Celestially inspired light show starts at 5 pm on the grounds of the Seattle Chinese Garden at the north end of the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus, times and admission prices vary. Tickets and info here.

FESTIVAL OF TREES: At Fauntleroy UCC Fellowship Hall (9140 California SW): “Come see artistically decorated trees in a variety of themes. Bring non-perishable food items to ‘vote’ for your favorites.” 6-7 pm.

FAUNTLEROY CHURCH CONCERT: Come for the trees, then stay for the Christmas concert at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW), 7 pm.

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’: The radio-play edition of Twelfth Night Productions‘ beloved show continues at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW), 7:30 pm – ticket info and other details on the Brown Paper Tickets website.

‘SNOWED IN’ SOLD OUT: ArtsWest (4711 California SW; WSB sponsor) presents its holiday production, described as a “a journey of song, dance, friendship, family, and the true meaning of the holidays.” 7:30 pm. No tickets available online – but you can doublecheck with the box office.

COOKIE’S FESTIVE MIRACLES: Holiday drag show at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW), 9 pm. 21+.

OUT AT THE BOX HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR: Holiday drag show at Box Bar (5401 California SW), 9:30 pm. 21+. Plus: “Box Bar will also be making $5 vegan Jell-O shots, with proceeds being donated to West Seattle Food Bank.”

*************Here are the non-holiday happenings, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

FREE GROUP RUN: Start your Saturday with this weekly West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW) group run! All levels welcome. Meet at the shop by 8 am.

HEAVILY MEDITATED: Arrive by 8:50 am for community meditation at Move2Center (3618 SW Alaska). Free event.

FREE WRITING GROUP: 10:30 am in West Seattle, registration required – see full details in our calendar listing.

FAMILY READING TIME: Every Saturday at 11 am at Paper Boat Booksellers (6040 California SW).

VIETNAMESE CULTURAL CENTER: The center is open to visitors noon-3 pm, as explained here. (2234 SW Orchard)

CELEBRATION OF LIFE FOR CHAS REDMOND: The longtime community advocate will be celebrated 1-4 pm at the Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon). RSVP here. At 2 pm, when a short program begins, a live stream is planned for those who can’t be there in person – here’s the link.

VISCON CELLARS: Tasting room open – wine by the glass or bottle – 1-6 pm at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor). Try the fall-release red wines!

BURGERS & BEATS: Saturday night food and music at Revelry Room – burgers start at 6, DJs at 9. (4547 California SW, alley side)

ALL-AGES OPEN MIC: 7-10 pm at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way)

‘GREAT NIGHT’: Saturday night program for young adults 18+ to hang out 7 pm-midnight, at Southwest Teen Life Center (2801 SW Thistle).

Planning a concert, open house, show, sale, event, meeting, seminar, reading, field trip, fundraiser, class, game, or holiday-season happening, or ? If the community’s welcome, get your event on our calendar! Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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UPDATE: No Christmas tree yet? Two things to know
December 16, 2023 3:35 am
|    Comments Off on UPDATE: No Christmas tree yet? Two things to know
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

If you’re planning to tree-shop this weekend, two updates to the lot list in our West Seattle Holiday Guide:

(WSB photo, Holy Rosary lot last month)

HOLY ROSARY TREE LOT: Today (Saturday, December 16) is your last chance to shop this lot on the north side of the Holy Rosary campus (42nd SW between Dakota and Genesee):

Last day for the Holy Rosary tree lot. Still a good selection of fresh trees, wreaths, garland, and Hope Lutheran’s poinsettias. Opens 9 AM and closes when all items have sold. Stop on in and support the West Seattle Food Bank by bringing 5 cans of food and getting $5 off.

A portion of the lot’s proceeds go to nonprofits including WSFB. AFTERNOON UPDATE: As of noon, everything is half-price!

TREES BY THE SEA: The tree lot on Alki sold out earlier this week and is now closed for the season.

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GRATITUDE: Providence Mount St. Vincent gets pre-Christmas gift delivery
December 15, 2023 10:33 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

The photo is from Providence Mount St. Vincent, which welcomed a special pre-Christmas gift delivery today:

The Nucor team is hereby decreed to be THE best Santa’s elves this side of the North Pole as they deliver once again carloads of gifts and support to help make Christmas bright for the residents and caregivers of Providence Mount St. Vincent! This annual tradition yet again showcases the tremendous generosity of Nucor as they help so many in need throughout West Seattle.

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CRIME WATCH FOLLOWUP: New charge filed against 16-year-old suspect in carjackings, robberies
December 15, 2023 8:31 pm
|      30 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Back on December 4th, we reported on the case against a West Seattle 16-year-old charged in five October crimes including two West Seattle carjackings and one robbery. Thursday was the date set for a review of whether he’d continue to be held in juvenile detention while awaiting trial, so we checked the online files, and found out another robbery charge was filed against him three days after our previous report. This one is for an armed robbery at a 7-11 in Kent in early November. We’ve also learned that another teenage suspect has been charged in related King County cases, though not – so far – in any West Seattle cases. First, the status of the West Seattle 16-year-old: He continues to be held in juvenile detention, with his status to be considered again next week – on Thursday, December 21st – when he is arraigned on the new charge filed against him. It’s one count of first-degree robbery with display of a deadly weapon. The charging documents say that, as in the other cases, the suspect was linked to this one through cell-phone records and security-camera images showing a distinctive sweatshirt.

They also reveal a little more information about his arrest near his home at 12th/Roxbury, saying he was carrying a backpack that held a loaded handgun, camo face mask, and black gloves, and that a search of his home subsequently yielded some of the apparel matching what security-camera images showed. As for the other suspect, we looked into his files too – he’s a 17-year-old Kent resident, charged with three counts of first-degree robbery and two counts of attempted first-degree robbery, all related to incidents in Kent and elsewhere in South King County. He was arrested at his home November 13th and has been in juvenile detention since then; his next hearing is in mid-January. No mention of other arrests, but we’ll keep watching court files.

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READER REPORT: Corner hole hazard at 48th/Hinds
December 15, 2023 6:34 pm
|      8 COMMENTS
 |   Safety | West Seattle news

Thanks to Ryan for the report and photos of a safety hazard at 48th/Hinds [map]:

Avoid NE corner of 48th and Hinds!!! 10-15 foot hole underneath a piece of thin form!!

I put cones on it but it will be a tragic accident.

I called 911 as well.

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WEEKEND PREVIEW: ‘Festival of Trees,’ with themes from humor to hope
December 15, 2023 3:35 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Fauntleroy | Holidays | West Seattle news

What if Rudolph had the night off? That’s the theme of this tree we admired while visiting the Fauntleroy UCC Festival of Trees on its first public-display night earlier this week.

Another tree that might make you smile … the one with a Costco theme:

And then there’s the tree decked with hopes for peace, in many languages:

The festival doubles as a food drive – bring nonperishable food to donate and leave it under your favorite tree to “vote” for it. During our visit, this tree was the front-runner:

We learned that’s because it’s the entry from Alki UCC and that apparently brought a concentrated voting effort! In addition to the food drive, you can also have fun with a scavenger hunt while you’re there – check the 13 trees in the church Fellowship Hall for certain words or items. It’s open to viewing Saturday night, 6-7 pm, at 9140 California SW – right before the church’s free Christmas concert.

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VIDEO: District 1 City Councilmember-elect Rob Saka and counterparts get mayoral welcome
December 15, 2023 1:08 pm
|      31 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

(WSB photo: District 1 Councilmember-elect Rob Saka with Mayor Bruce Harrell)

By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor

Two and a half weeks after election results were finalized, the five newly elected Seattle City Councilmembers-to-be – including District 1’s Rob Saka – answered media questions this morning after a mayoral welcome.

We were there for the event on the mayor’s floor atop City Hall. Mayor Bruce Harrell started his welcome speech by explaining staffers have been meeting with the “new cast of characters” for the past week. (In addition to Saka, the “new cast” is District 3’s Joy Hollingsworth, succeeding Kshama Sawant; District 4’s Maritza Rivera, succeeding Alex Pedersen; District 5’s Cathy Moore, succeeding Debora Juarez; , and District 7’s Bob Kettle, the only one to take office by defeating an incumbent, Andrew Lewis. There will be a sixth new councilmember next month, when the council appoints someone to fill the citywide seat Teresa Mosqueda is leaving to join the King County Council.) Here are the mayor’s opening remarks:

Harrell suggested the new councilmembers can’t be put in a “binary box” of political ideology, but instead are “committed to get stuff done.” He also noted their range of “lived experience” with a list of attributes major and minor, from “two veterans” (Saka and Kettle) to “two dog owners.” He also insisted that he and the departing councilmembers “did some marvelous work together,” ticking off more stats, such as the council passing all 344 bills he sent them and that he only vetoed one council bill. “I want to dispel the notion that things were so bad we got nothing done … we got a lot done.”
So what do the newly elected councilmembers-elecct want to do? Each got a turn at the microphone before the floor was opened to questions. Here’s what Councilmember-elect Saka said:

He promised he would “be a servant to the residents of District 1” and assessed the changes as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity to usher in a new culture at City Hall,” promising he and his new colleagues could “disagree without being disagreeable.” When Q&A time came, we noted that he had campaigned on “public safety, public safety, public safety” and asked what he planned to do first to try to improve it:

(It should be noted here that the mayor said a bit later in response to a reporter question that crime rates are going down.) In short, Saka didn’t mention a specific propodal but said he’d “work collaboratively with the mayor” and that more officers had to be hired – the hiring incentives don’t seem to be working – plus the alternative CARE Team must “grow and scale.”

Harrell had more to say about public safety in answering questions about his goals for the year ahead, mentioning “new ideas” – referring to the budgeted gunshot-locator technology as one of those, along with “CCTV cameras” (we’re checking on which cameras he was referring to). He also declared that “crime rates are going down.”

To see what the other councilmembers-elect said, the entire event was streamed by Seattle Channel; we’ll link their recording when it’s available. Councilmember-elect Hollingsworth had a notable observation – “We didn’t just want the job title, we want to do the job.” That will formally start when they’re sworn in January 2nd.

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WATER TAXI ALERT: Extra evening service for Monday’s Seahawks game
December 15, 2023 12:31 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   King County Water Taxi | West Seattle news

Going to Monday night’s Seahawks game? Metro invites you to travel by water:

On December 18, 2023, the West Seattle Water Taxi will be running extended service for the Seahawks game against Philadelphia. In addition to the regular service, the following departures have been added:

Departs Pier 50 to West Seattle/Departs West Seattle to Pier 50
7:30 p.m./8:00 p.m.
8:30 p.m./9:00 p.m.
9:30 p.m./10:00 p.m.
10:45 p.m./11:00 p.m.

The Water Taxi Shuttle (Routes 773 and 775) will be in service for the added sailings to get you from the dock to the West Seattle Junction and the Admiral District after the game.

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Future preschooler in the family? Save the date for West Seattle Preschool Fair
December 15, 2023 11:11 am
|    Comments Off on Future preschooler in the family? Save the date for West Seattle Preschool Fair
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

The West Seattle Preschool Fair is back! If you’re interested in exploring options for a young family member, this will be the place and time to do it – at least 14 local preschool providers are expected to be there. It’s after the holidays, but we thought a heads-up now might be helpful before the holiday season hits its crescendo so you can mark your calendar before too many distractions rush in. The West Seattle Preschool Fair is set for 5:30-7 pm Monday, January 8th, in the Menashe Gym at Hope Lutheran North (4100 SW Genesee). Hope Lutheran and Westside School (WSB sponsor) are coordinating it and are two of the participants; if you have questions before the event, you can contact Ted Holmes at Westside, tedh@westsideschool.org or 206-932-2511.

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Here’s what’s up today and tonight for your West Seattle Friday
December 15, 2023 9:30 am
|    Comments Off on Here’s what’s up today and tonight for your West Seattle Friday
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Photo by Jerry Simmons)

A two-part list for today/tonight! First, from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide:

FILM HISTORY OF THE HOLIDAYS: 11 am at the Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon) – “In celebration of the holiday season, film historian Lance Rhoades will share favorite stories from classic live-action movies such as It’s a Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street and A Christmas Story and from great animated films, including Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, A Charlie Brown Christmas and How the Grinch Stole Christmas. We’ll also discuss all-inclusive faith celebrations.” $10. RSVP.

SANTA AND GRINCH PHOTO FUNDRAISER: Photos to raise money for West Seattle-based nonprofit Stephanie’s Lifeline, 4-7 pm at The Blu Grouse. (9839 17th SW)

DONATION DRIVE AT MENASHE FAMILY LIGHTS: Going to see West Seattle’s best-known Christmas lights display? Bring a donation if you can:

Donation Collections for WestSide Baby and West Seattle Food Bank. Donation bins will be set up at the Menashe home, 5 – 9 pm at 5605 Beach Drive SW. Most needed items for WestSide Baby: winter coats, hats and gloves, pajamas, rain books, blankets, books and toys, Pull Ups (sizes 2T – 5T) and diapers (sizes 3 – 6). Most needed items for the West Seattle Food Bank: non-perishable food (not opened, in good condition), shelf stable milk, healthy snacks, low-sodium and no-sugar foods, and pet food and kitty litter for their Pet Pantry.

(5605 Beach Drive SW)

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 continues tonight, 5 pm. Timed tickets and pricing info here.

SEATTLE GIRLS CHOIR: 7:30 pm at Holy Rosary (42nd/Genesee), Seattle Girls Choir presents “Carmina Angelorum.” (Follow that link for concert and ticket info.)

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’: The radio-play edition of Twelfth Night Productions‘ beloved show continues at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW), 7:30 pm – ticket info and other details on the Brown Paper Tickets website.

‘SNOWED IN’: ArtsWest (4711 California SW; WSB sponsor) presents its holiday production, described as a “a journey of song, dance, friendship, family, and the true meaning of the holidays.” 7:30 pm. Check for tickets are here.

And from the year-round WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

NEW COUNCILMEMBERS AT CITY HALL: District 1 Councilmember-elect Rob Saka and the four other newly elected councilmembers make their first group public appearance at City Hall during an official welcome from Mayor Bruce Harrell and media Q/A. You can watch live via Seattle Channel at 9:30 am.

TODDLER GYM: Free drop-in gym at Arbor Heights Community Church, 10 am-11:30 am. (4113 SW 102nd)

SCRABBLE CLUB: Play 12:30-1:30 pm at Margie’s Café inside the Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon).

VISCON CELLARS: Tasting room/wine bar open – wine by the glass or bottle – 5-9 pm at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor). Try the fall-release red wines!

MEDEJIN AT EASY STREET RECORDS: In-store show, 7 pm – free, all ages. (4559 California SW)

DANCE NIGHT AT THE SPOT: Fridays are DJ Dance Night at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way), 7-10 pm.

SOUND & ACUPUNCTURE: 7:30 pm at Move2Center (3618 SW Alaska), $45.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE SKYLARK: Levitating, Thatsnokay, Trances, doors at 7, show at 8. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

DJ NIGHT AT REVELRY ROOM: Music 9 pm-1 am on Fridays! (4547 California SW)

Something to add to our calendar and/or Holiday Guide? westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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Remembering Leon B. Ufkes, 1926-2023
December 15, 2023 8:55 am
|      9 COMMENTS
 |   Obituaries | West Seattle news

Family and friends are remembering Leon Ufkes and sharing this remembrance with the community:

Leon B. Ufkes (1926-2023)

Tami Ufkes-Schendel and Mark L. Ufkes announce the recent death of their 96-year old dad. Leon was a resident at West Seattle’s Quail Park memory facility, where wonderful staff cared for him. Raised in Illinois on the family farm, at age 17, Dad enlisted into the US Navy during World War II. He was trained as a “fighting Seabee” Naval engineer, stationed in Guam, to prepare for the invasion of the main island of Japan. He was part of an engineering battalion slated to be in the third landing wave and was told that they could expect a 70% casualty rate. During final training, the US dropped two atomic bombs on Japan, ending the war. Dad said many times that those atomic bombs saved his life. As a result, he dedicated his entire career to the nuclear industry.

After the war, Dad used the GI bill to attend Virginia Tech, completing a B.S. degree in chemical engineering. His first engineering job, at age 26, Dad was issued a “Q” top secret security clearance and was put in charge of a 5-person team to pack high explosives into atomic bombs that would be used to trigger the nuclear explosion. He was proud that his ideas were used to make the atomic bomb assembly process safer.

In 1954, he met and married Iris R. Adkins, his secretary (and our mom), who could type 90 words a minute on a manual typewriter, was a state-level women’s high school basketball star, and “had great legs and a beautiful singing voice”, according to Dad. In 1955, Dad was invited to the Hanford Nuclear reservation in Richland, Washington to assist in operating plutonium producing reactors built during the cold war with the Soviet Union. Dad was a lead Hanford operating engineer for much of his career, proud to have worked at historic B-Reactor, using the same office that famous physicist Enrico Fermi used in 1945 to help end World War II. Later, Dad did early work on the “glassification” of nuclear waste for safer storage.

Dad fell in love with the mountains of the west. We learned how to ski as we learned to walk, and constantly went camping in the Cascade mountains. As a family, we hiked most of the coast of Washington and climbed Mt. Adams and Mt. Hood a dozen times. Dad volunteered as a Scoutmaster, and for decades, lead a large group to summit Mt. Adams every Labor Day.

Dad became a single parent in 1972, when our spectacular mom died of colon cancer at age 43. Dad and Mom taught us that college education gives opportunities we can’t imagine. They were right. Between three children and six grandchildren, there are 14 college degrees, including four advanced degrees and two medical doctors. Collectively, our careers have allowed us to serve the human condition all over the US and the world.

Dad played tennis, loved dancing (“all the women want to dance with me, Mark!”), and walked 3 miles a day until age 84 when he was severely injured after falling off a roof while pruning a tree.

A memorial plaque for Mom and Dad was installed at the summit of the Candy Mountain Hiking Preserve, a park and 1.5 mile trail near Richland. His son Mark, and daughter-in-law Lois Schipper, used their 120 acres to help create a public park there instead of developing housing. Dad loved the fact that over 60,000 hikers climb Candy Mountain each year and can sit on beautiful basalt column benches at the summit, with a grand view of the mighty Columbia River, 1,000 feet above the town where Dad raised our family and served our country.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER: Pre-winter break Friday
December 15, 2023 6:00 am
|    Comments Off on TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER: Pre-winter break Friday
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:00 AM: Good morning. It’s Friday, December 15, last day of school before winter break.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Partly sunny today, high in the low 50s. Today’s sunrise will be at 7:50 am, and the sun will set at 4:18 pm. (As of today, sunsets start getting later!)

Metro – Regular schedule today; check advisories here.

Water Taxi – Regular schedule today. Watch the real-time map if wondering where the boat is.

Washington State Ferries – 2-boat service on the Triangle Route. Check alerts for changes, and use the real-time map to see where your ferry is.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

Delridge cameras: Besides the one below (Delridge/Orchard), cameras are also at Delridge/Genesee, Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, and Delridge/Oregon.

High Bridge – the main camera:

High Bridge – the view from its southwest end (when SDOT points the 35th/Avalon/Fauntleroy camera that way):

Low Bridge:

1st Ave. S. Bridge – another route across the river:

Highway 99: – northbound side at Lander:

MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: See all working traffic cams citywide here, most with video options; West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras are on this WSB page.

BRIDGE INFO: The @SDOTBridges feed on Twitter/X shows whether the city’s movable bridges are opening for vessel traffic.

If you see trouble on the bridges/streets/paths/bay, please text or call us (when you can do that safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if applicable). Thank you!

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