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LIGHT RAIL: Sound Transit talks about stations with West Seattle Transportation Coalition, asks for your feedback
December 4, 2023 12:28 pm
|      78 COMMENTS
 |   Sound Transit | West Seattle news

By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor

Though the Sound Transit Board won’t decide on the final West Seattle light-rail routing (“alignment”) before the middle of next year, the agency is proceeding with station design based on the “preferred alignment” that got preliminary board approval.

And as ST reps reiterated to the West Seattle Transportation Coalition last Thursday night, this is prime time to tell them what you think about how the design of West Seattle’s stations is shaping up. Your primary way to do that is to answer this survey – also pitched at ST’s recent meeting in The Junction (WSB coverage here and here) – if you haven’t already. That meeting did not include a briefing, just a chance to circulate and look at maps and sketches, so even if you attended, the materials from the WSTC meeting might provide a somewhat closer look.

Here’s the full slide deck from Thursday’s meeting. It includes three views of each planned station (Delridge, Avalon – still potentially on the table for omission, but design continues – and Junction). Below are the three major design views on which presenters focused:

First, the Delridge station (elevated) – some key points mentioned by ST’s Sloan Dawson included that the platform will be about 55′ above a reconfigured Charlestown Street. They’re working on pickup/dropoff/pedestrian zones to minimize having people crossing “a busy arterial.” The station itself eventually won’t front on Delridge – the street was shown as running alongside transit-oriented development projects that could be up to 85′ high (three stories higher than the platform). They don’t believe 26th/Andover will warrant a new signal but a new intersection at 23rd/Delridge will.

Next, the Avalon station (underground in what ST calls a “routine cut”):

This station will “straddle 35th SW,” underground, so entrances will be roughly where Taco Time and Pecos Pit (WSB sponsor) are now. Dawson also pointed out a plan to “reroute” part of SW Genesee in the area, as well as “a lot of new bike infrastructure” planned. He said they’re not currently envisioning any changes to the existing intersection signalization.

And next, the westernmost West Seattle station, in The Junction (tunneled):

Its entrances are envisioned on 40th and 42nd SW, and the platform would be 65′ below street level. There is new bicycle infrastructure here too, with protected bike lanes envisioned “all along the Alaska corridor.” Transit-oriented development in the area could go up to 75′.

Again, the full slide deck (here it is again) also has station-by-station looks at two other views – development near the station, and how you’ll get to the station (where buses and other vehicles will drop people off, for example).

In Q&A, ST reps were asked what happens if the board vote next year results in a different “alignment” than the ones these stations are on. The feedback provided now could be applied to other station locations, they said, but for the record, these are the only station locations getting some early design work now.

WHAT’S NEXT? The station-planning survey is open through December 20th.

WSTC’S NEXT MEETING: The group usually meets every other fourth Thursday, so that means the next meeting will be January 25, 2024 – watch westseattletc.org for info.

ADDED WEDNESDAY: Here’s video of the WSTC meeting, which the group just uploaded:

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: South Admiral carjacking; gunfire near Lincoln Park; car break-ins
December 4, 2023 11:37 am
|      25 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

First, two weekend incidents on which we obtained information from SPD this morning:

SOUTH ADMIRAL CARJACKING: Police say this happened around 6 am on Saturday morning in the 3200 block of California SW (near Springline). The victim told officers that the carjackers – who arrived in a red Kia Soul – tapped a handgun on his car window to get him out and steal the car, a gray 2017 Audi SUV. Dispatch audio included an early description of the carjackers as two Black men in their late teens or early 20s, thin, wearing hoodies and masks. The stolen Audi was subsequently seen headed eastbound on the West Seattle Bridge, but archived audio indicates officers lost sight of it on Beacon Hill, around Beacon/28th, shortly after a pursuit was authorized and initiated.

GUNFIRE NEAR LINCOLN PARK: 911 callers reported hearing gunfire in the vicinity of Lincoln Park’s north lot around 3 am Sunday. Police found no evidence at the time – no victim, no property damage, no casings – but hours later, a 911 caller reported finding a 9mm casing in the area.

CAR BREAK-INS: This is a reader report from Jessica:

At least two cars were broken into on 55th Ave SW in Alki last night. One of the cars was a 2003 Honda CRV (our car) and the other was a 2020 Nissan Versa Sedan (our neighbor’s car). Many of the belongings that were taken out of the cars were thrown out along 55th Ave SW. We’re interested if anyone saw unusual activity on 55th Ave SW last night or if they’ve seen additional belongings dumped in the area. We’re still missing a few minor things, we think.

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11 for your West Seattle Monday
December 4, 2023 9:45 am
|    Comments Off on 11 for your West Seattle Monday
 |   West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

(Photo by Jerry Simmons)

Here’s what’s happening for the rest of today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and Holiday Guide:

‘WINTER WANDER’ SCAVENGER HUNT: Alice Kuder‘s West Seattle scavenger hunt continues through December 10th, and you can still register to participate! Go here to find out more and to sign up.

FAUNTLEROY SURVEY’S FINAL DAY: Live or work in Fauntleroy, but haven’t answered the Fauntleroy Community Association‘s survey yet? Today’s the last day!

FOR VETERANS: If you need help filing a disability claim, the DAV offers free drop-in assistance 9 am-1 pm. (4857 Delridge Way SW)

HOLIDAY ART SHOW & SALE: Rain City Clay continues hosting a holiday show & sale featuring artists who work with clay. This is the second-to-last day – visit and shop 2-7 pm. (4208 SW 100th)

HOLIDAY ROOM PHOTOS: West Seattle Junction Hometown Holidays offers selfie photo ops (no Santa) in the Holiday Room (4210 SW Oregon) from 3 pm to 7 pm.

GET CRAFTY: 6-10 pm, this is “Crafting and Creativity Night” at The Missing Piece (9456 35th SW), info here.

D&D: Open D&D starts at 6:30 pm at Meeples Games (3727 California SW), all welcome, first-time players too. $5.

MEDITATION IN FAUNTLEROY: Free weekly Zen sitting/meditation at the chapel at Fauntleroy UCC (9140 California SW), 7 pm-8:30 pm.

MEDITATION IN ALKI: Twice-monthly meditation with the Dharma Community at Alki UCC (6115 SW Hinds), 7 pm-8:30 pm.

MONDAY NIGHT TRIVIA! Three weekly events – 7 and 8 pm Sporcle Pub Quiz at Three 9 Lounge (4505 39th SW); 7 pm at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7:30 pm with QuizFix at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW)

MUSIC AT THE ALLEY: Live music with The Westside Trio, 8 pm at The Alley (behind 4509 California SW), 21+, no cover.

Have a West Seattle/White Center event to add to our calendar and/or Holiday Guide? Please send info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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STEP UP TO THE PLATE: Registration now open for West Seattle Little League!
December 4, 2023 9:00 am
|    Comments Off on STEP UP TO THE PLATE: Registration now open for West Seattle Little League!
 |   West Seattle news | WS & Sports

West Seattle Little League has opened registration for next year’s baseball, softball, and Challenger programs – here’s the announcement we received to share with you:

West Seattle Little League Spring 2024 registration is now open for all youth ages 4-14.

Each year, we want to make sure all kids have the opportunity to write the next chapter in the Little League story, regardless of their situation. Thanks to the generous support of T-Mobile, financially challenged families in our community can apply for the T-Mobile Little League Call-Up Grant, which helps cover registration fees associated with West Seattle Little League for the upcoming season! Little League and T-Mobile share the belief that every kid should have the chance to play ball.

The WSLL baseball and softball spring season will run from March – June and features fun activities like the jamboree, sandlot days, and end-of-the-year bash. Interested to know more details? Check out westseattlelittleleague.com to find information about boundaries and divisions of play.

We look forward to seeing you on the field!

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER: Welcome to Monday
December 4, 2023 6:03 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:55 AM: Just headed east on the high bridge and noticed the port-bound trucks on the westbound side are backed up to parallel with the 4th exit. Traffic is OK both ways, though.

8:47 AM: We’re headed back the other way, via the south end, and noted NB 509 is backed up all the way to Burien – a crash at the 1st Ave. S. Bridge (NB 99) has cleared per WSDOT, but that backup’s going to take a while to subside.

Earlier:

6:03 AM: Good morning. It’s Monday, December 4.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Wet and relatively warm – more rain, breezy, high = mid-50s. Sunrise today is at 7:40 am; sunset, 4:18 pm.

TRANSIT TODAY

Metro – Regular schedule today; check advisories here.

Water Taxi – Regular schedule today.

Washington State Ferries – 2-boat service on the Triangle Route. Check alerts for changes, and use Vessel Watch to see where your ferry is. (added 8:50 am) Alert for later this week:

The following five sailings are canceled late Thursday night, Dec. 7, through early Friday morning, Dec. 8, for overnight maintenance work at Southworth terminal:

11:50 p.m. and 1:05 a.m. Fauntleroy to Southworth
12:15 and 1:30 a.m. Vashon to Southworth
12:35 a.m. Southworth to Fauntleroy
For travelers heading to Southworth, the scheduled 10:35 p.m. out of Fauntleroy and 11 p.m. Vashon departure will be the last for the night. The final sailing out of Southworth will at 11:20 p.m. to Fauntleroy then Vashon. To complete the terminal maintenance work, the same sailings will be canceled on two more weeknights over the next month or two.

To complete the terminal maintenance work, the same sailings will be canceled on two more weeknights over the next month or two.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

Delridge cameras: Besides the one below (Delridge/Henderson), cameras are also at Delridge/Genesee, Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Orchard, 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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WEEK AHEAD: Design Review for 7617 35th SW on Thursday
December 3, 2023 8:59 pm
|      20 COMMENTS
 |   Development | West Seattle news

Looking at the week ahead, here’s one big non-holiday event: Thursday night (December 7), the Southwest Design Review Board meets online for its next look at a mixed-use building proposed for 7617 35th SW, on the west side of 35th between Holden and Ida. This is the second “early design guidance” meeting for the project – at the end of the first one (WSB coverage here), the board told the project team to go back for another try at presenting size/shape options. The basics remain six stories, more than 130 apartments, 5,200 square feet of commercial (or live/work) space, and about 50 offstreet parking spaces. You can see the design packet for the meeting – including details on the three proposed size/shape (“massing”) options – by going here. The 5 pm meeting will include an opportunity for public comment, as explained on this page – which is also where you’ll find the link for attending Thursday’s meeting.

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WEST SEATTLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: Triple treat
December 3, 2023 8:04 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle Christmas lights | West Seattle news

Three weeks until Christmas Eve, and it’s time to start spotlighting West Seattle Christmas lights every night. Tonight we visited a corner that shines brightly every year – Charlestown and 40th, near the “water tower” (actually a standpipe). On the northwest side of this corner, three homes in a row have lights aplenty – the corner house itself, and its two neighbors to the north.

Our photos really can’t do it justice – go walk the corner for yourself!

Got lights? Seen lights? Let us know – westseattleblog@gmail.com, with or without photos (we’re out roaming) – thank you! (See what we’ve shown, including previous years, by scrolling through this WSB archive.)

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VIDEO: West Seattle Big Band’s holiday concert fills Admiral Church with musical cheer
December 3, 2023 5:58 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

It was a full house – more than 100 people of all ages, babies through seniors – when the West Seattle Big Band presented a holiday concert this afternoon at Admiral Church. We recorded three of the Christmas songs for you – first, “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year”:

Here’s “The Christmas Song”

And “Baby, It’s Cold Outside”:

(Jim Edwards directs the WSBB; Jenaige Lane and Greg Dirks were the vocalists in our clips; Bud Jackson sang later.) The rest of the program included some non-holiday selections too. The band, which spends much of its year donating its time to raise money for school music programs, donated this appearance too so the church could raise money (admission was free but a basket was passed) for its music program.

Watch for more public WSBB performances next year – their calendar is at westseattlebigband.com, along with history on this quarter-century-and-going-strong group!

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PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Girl Scout Troop 40171 offering holiday help next Saturday
December 3, 2023 4:59 pm
|    Comments Off on PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Girl Scout Troop 40171 offering holiday help next Saturday
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

With so much going on these holiday-season weekends, perhaps you’re a parent who’d like to take a little time for yourself. How about next Saturday – December 9? This high-school-age West Seattle Girl Scout Troop has an offer:

Parents’ Night Out December 9th, 5-9 pm at Peace Lutheran [39th/Thistle].
Reliable childcare for ages 5-11.

Holiday party to attend? Holiday shopping to do? Need quiet headspace to write your holiday cards? Here’s your opportunity!

Go enjoy yourself knowing your children are in good hands and having a great time with Girl Scout Troop 40171!

We have a full lineup of fun festive winter activities to entertain 5-11 year olds: cookie decorating, festive winter crafts and games, and a pizza dinner!

Our Ambassador level (juniors and seniors in high school) Girl Scout troop is fundraising for our troop to travel to Our Chalet – a Girl Scout world center in Switzerland – as the culmination of our scouting experience.

We are all trained in first aid and have experience babysitting. Girl Scouts and non-Girl Scouts, stuffies, lovies, and cozy blankets are all welcome! Pricing and registration here.

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FOLLOWUP: Here’s what SDOT plans to add, and remove, along Alki Point Healthy Street
December 3, 2023 2:09 pm
|      107 COMMENTS
 |   Transportation | West Seattle news

(SDOT photo)

More than a year has passed since SDOT announced that the Alki Point Healthy Street – Alki Avenue west of 63rd and Beach Drive north/west of 63rd – would be permanent. A few months later, the city said it was working on the permanent design. They’ve just unveiled finalized designs centering on four locations along the stretch, including the addition of various features including a “cul-de-sac,” a “walking and rolling” lane adjacent to part of the sidewalk, and removal of 60+ on-street parking spaces, while marking three new ADA spaces:

Location 1: Alki Ave SW & 64th Pl SW

-Paint & post cul-de-sac to give drivers an opportunity to turn around before the “street closed” sign
-“Street closed” sign on durable concrete cylinders to reduce cut-through driving on the Healthy Street
-Wayfinding pavement markings for a smooth transition from existing bike path to the Healthy Street
-Approximately 6 parking spaces removed in Cul-de-sac area – raised crosswalk to 64th Pl SW

Location 2: Alki Ave SW and Point Pl SW

-Speed humps to reduce traffic speeds
-Sharrow pavement markings to enhance wayfinding for people biking, rolling, and walking
-Stop signs at intersecting streets

Location 3: Alki Ave SW and Beach Dr SW

-Paint and post to delineate 10’ of additional space for walking/rolling along the existing sidewalk adjacent to the beach
-Sharrow pavement markings to enhance wayfinding for people biking, rolling, and walking
-Stop signs at intersecting streets
-ADA accessible parking along Beach Dr SW

Location 4: Beach Dr SW and 64th Ave SW

-Paint and post to delineate 10’ of additional space for walking/rolling along the existing sidewalk adjacent to the beach
-Sharrow pavement markings to enhance wayfinding for people biking, rolling, and walking
-Stop signs at intersecting streets
-Approximately 61 parking spaces removed on Beach Dr SW, from 3300 Beach Dr SW to 64th Ave SW
-Approximately 46 parking spaces to remain available on Beach Dr SW, from 3300 Beach Dr SW to 64th Ave SW

The first “design update” is similar to what was proposed in “early design” – you can compare via links toward the bottom of the project page – but the other three have significant additions, including the “walking/rolling” lane and more speed humps. This is planned for installation next year. Meantime, SDOT’s update says there’s one stretch they haven’t finalized yet – Beach Drive between 63rd and 64th. This and other “Healthy Streets” around the city originally were set up during the early months of the pandemic, but many have been made permanent as reduced-vehicle-traffic streets.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Another crash-and-grab at Canna West Culture Shop; work-truck break-in
December 3, 2023 11:59 am
|      20 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Two incidents in West Seattle Crime Watch this morning:

CRASH-AND-GRAB BURGLARS HIT CANNA WEST AGAIN: Driving in the 5400 block of California SW this morning, we saw that damage to Canna West Culture Shop. It happened just before 3 am, according to archived dispatch audio – three people crashed a vehicle into the storefront and ran off southbound. The people we talked with say it appears nothing was taken; it should be noted, this is NOT where Canna sells cannabis – that’s Canna West Seattle (WSB sponsor) across the street; this shop specializes (as its sign says) in CBD products. Archived audio indicates the burglars left a gray Kia Optima behind, still running; it had not (yet) been reported stolen but they were going to check with the registered owner at a North Seattle address. The burglars seen leaving the scene were described only as “three unknown-race males, thin.” The same building houses the studio of Filigree and Shadow fragrances (WSB sponsor), which proprietor James tells us was not damaged. The previous crash-and-grab hit at Canna West was in September.

One reader report this morning:

WORK TRUCK BREAK-IN: From Amanda: “I wanted to let you know that there was a truck broken into at the Wells Fargo parking lot in The Junction last night. My friend parked his Republic Services work truck there last night around 6 pm. The robber smashed the window and stole lots of rain gear, hoodies, and boots. Mostly all with either a US Ecology logo or Republic Services logo. If the community could keep an eye out, it would be appreciated!”

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HOLIDAY GIVING: Baking cookies? Add extras for The Christmas People
December 3, 2023 10:38 am
|      7 COMMENTS
 |   Holidays | How to help | West Seattle news

Many opportunities to give this holiday season – but usually just one asking for homemade Christmas cookies! The Christmas People just sent the announcement asking for cookies again this year; we’re sharing it so bakers can plan ahead:

The Christmas People are once again asking for home-baked cookies for distribution to homeless and other marginalized people in our midst.

Home baked cookies may be brought to West Seattle Coworking, 9030 35th Ave SW, Friday, Dec. 22 and Saturday, Dec. 23 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 24 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Cookies may also be dropped off at Artisan Community Kitchen, 10836 E. Marginal Way, S, Tukwila 98168 during the same hours as above.

The Christmas People also need volunteers for food prep and delivery to shelters. Contact Rev. Fred Hutchinson, cofounder, at 206-719-4979 or pialley@jps.net.

Here’s an explanation of what The Christmas People are all about.

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Silent Book Club at the library, food drive at Farmers’ Market, West Seattle Big Band, ‘Poetry for Pups,’ more for your Sunday
December 3, 2023 6:16 am
|    Comments Off on Silent Book Club at the library, food drive at Farmers’ Market, West Seattle Big Band, ‘Poetry for Pups,’ more for your Sunday
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Olympic Mountains – The Brothers at left – photographed from Alki by David Hutchinson)

Happy Sunday! Here’s what’s happening – from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and Holiday Guide:

‘WINTER WANDER’ SCAVENGER HUNT: Alice Kuder‘s West Seattle scavenger hunt continues through December 10th, and you can still register to participate! Go here to find out more and to sign up.

HOLIDAY FUN PHOTOS WITH GAIL ANN: 8:30 am-2 pm is the window today for sessions at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse – book your time here.

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

ADVENT FESTIVAL: From the holiday-season church listings in the Holiday Guide, this is happening today at Peace Lutheran Church (39th/Thistle) from 9:00 am-10:15 am: “Advent logs, paperwhites, card making, and more. Bring the whole family. A light breakfast will be served. Special guest Gayle Boss, author of All Creation Waits, will join us via ZOOM toward the end of the morning and read from the Children’s Edition of her Advent book.”

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 flowers, cheese, fish, meat, baked goods, condiments, fresh-cooked food, beverages (from cider to kombucha to beer/wine), nuts, more – even Christmas trees! Here’s today’s vendor list.

FOOD DRIVE AT FARMERS’ MARKET: Farmlink fellow Ariel plans to be back at the market today collecting food for the West Seattle Food Bank, 10 am-2 pm – look for her booth.

PATHFINDER WREATH SALES DURING FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm at California/Alaska, look for Pathfinder K-8‘s famous wreaths.

CHALLAH BRAIDING AT FARMERS’ MARKET: With Hanukkah approaching, Torah Learning Center of West Seattle is at the market 10 am-2 pm: “There will be Menorah Kits, Donuts, Dreidels, and more!”

SILENT BOOK CLUB AT THE LIBRARY: Special gathering of the Silent Book Club of West Seattle – at the library! 10:30 am settle in, 11-noon read, noon-12:30 chat or keep reading, at West Seattle (Admiral) Library (2306 42nd SW) – more in our calendar listing.

MOON ROOM SALE: Friday we announced Moon Room Shop and Wellness (5902 1/2 California SW) as our newest sponsor. That announcement included word of a 15% off sale through today.

DELRIDGE GROCERY COOP SALE: As announced Friday, the store is selling produce at big discounts again today. (5444 Delridge Way SW)

SANTA PHOTOS AT HIGHLAND PARK CORNER STORE: 11 am-2 pm:

Santa is making a stop at Highland Park Corner Store! He’ll be here to spread good cheer and take photos with your pets (kids of all ages welcome as well!). For a $25 donation, you’ll get access to a digital library of photos taken by Erika Smith Photography. Proceeds from the photos support Forgotten Dogs Rescue.

(7789 Highland Park Way SW)

SANTA PET PHOTOS: At Westwood Village, Pet Supplies Plus is again offering free Santa Pet Photos today, 11 am-4 pm, plus cookies, cocoa, and coffee.

HOLIDAY ART SHOW & SALE: Rain City Clay‘s holiday show/sale continues, featuring artists who work with clay:

Show hours today are 1-5 pm. (4208 SW 100th)

WEST SEATTLEITE’S HANUKKAH BOOK: Jo Gershman has written/illustrated the picture book “A Wild, Wild Hanukkah” and will have a meet-and-greet/reading event at 1 pm today at University Bookstore (4326 University Way NE)

WEST SEATTLE BIG BAND: At Admiral Church (4320 SW Hill), 3 pm, free holiday jazz concert and dance. With cookies!

‘SNOWED IN’: ArtsWest (4711 California SW; WSB sponsor) presents its holiday production, described as “a journey of song, dance, friendship, family, and the true meaning of the holidays.” 3 pm today. Tickets and show times/dates are here.

MUSICIANS FOR THE WEST SEATTLE FOOD BANK: At C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor): Another benefit performance – no cover but food and/or funds for WSFB appreciated.

POETRY FOR PUPS: Book reading and meet-and-greet with author Susan Seah and her “beagle muse” Koa – bring your pup! 3 pm to 5 pm at Realfine Coffee (4480 Fauntleroy Way SW)

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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VIDEO: Rush Hour opens in new West Seattle Junction location
December 2, 2023 9:04 pm
|      5 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

Key, Sean, and Yesenia took a moment for that photo just before cutting the ribbon to open the new West Seattle Junction location of their shop Rush Hour, less than a block south of the storefront where they’d been since June.

The move to 4517 California SW was already in motion even before the two crash-and-grab burglaries at their former storefront, which is awaiting demolition and redevelopment. The new space was Seattle E-Bike for a little while and Jan’s Beauty Supply for a long while. It’s bigger than Rush Hour’s previous spot, and a new mural by @TheyDrift spans the entire south wall:

Most of what Rush Hour carries is wearable, including shoes:

They also have unique shirts, jackets, and other apparel. A line was waiting to get in once they opened today:

In addition to shopping, you’ll also be able to visit Rush Hour during Art Walk – Yesenia told us they’re excited to participate, and very grateful for all the community support. Store hours are noon-8 pm Tuesdays-Saturdays, 11 am-6 pm Sundays, closed Mondays.

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WEEKEND SCENE: West Seattle High School boys’ basketball benefit @ Easy Street Records
December 2, 2023 7:18 pm
|    Comments Off on WEEKEND SCENE: West Seattle High School boys’ basketball benefit @ Easy Street Records
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools | WS & Sports

High-school basketball season has just begun. But no game tonight for the West Seattle High School boys’ team – they’re at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW) for the Slam Dunk Social benefit event. It’s on until 9 pm with food, fun, and a silent auction. Meet the coaches, too:

From left in our photo are Rick Ticeson, Jeff Auter, head coach Dan Kriley, Jeff Dabbs, and Nick Crespinel. Supporters raise money for expenses that the basic sports budgets just don’t cover – and that’s what tonight’s event is all about. A silent auction is part of it too, including a highlight item – a Pearl Jam Christmas record autographed by Eddie Vedder! Meantime, the boys are 1-1 on the season so far – next game Tuesday night, varsity at 7:30 pm, at home vs. Garfield.

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SUNDAY PREVIEW: West Seattle Big Band’s free holiday concert
December 2, 2023 6:46 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

It’s been a big day of event coverage, and it’s not over yet – but we want to give a quick shout-out to one of tomorrow’s biggest events: The West Seattle Big Band‘s free holiday concert at Admiral Church.

If you somehow haven’t seen them, the WSBB – directed by Jim Edwards – is the jazziest show in town, and will be a fun way to play out your weekend. Plus, you can dance if you want to (or just sit and listen)! The show starts at 3 pm, and we’re told cookies are part of the plan. Did we mention, free admission? Admiral Church is at 4320 SW Hill.

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VIDEO: Music and mingling at shelter-benefit concert
December 2, 2023 5:59 pm
|    Comments Off on VIDEO: Music and mingling at shelter-benefit concert
 |   How to help | West Seattle news

5:59 PM: That’s the view from the loft at Kenyon Hall, where a night of music to benefit Westside Neighbors Network Shelter is under way. Four musical acts are scheduled to perform before the event ends at 8 pm, including Michael Pearsall of Pearsall Properties, which organized the event. (We’ll add video of him a bit later.) The shelter – located in the West Seattle Veteran Center – runs entirely on donations and volunteers, and it’s the only emergency shelter in West Seattle. If you didn’t or couldn’t get a ticket to tonight’s concert, you also can donate to the shelter by going here.

8:10 PM: Here’s the video we promised:

Also of note – local businesses donated raffle prizes to sweeten the deal for attendees:

Find out more about the shelter by going here.

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Meet some of the 20+ authors and artists at Seattle Urban Book Expo
December 2, 2023 2:30 pm
|    Comments Off on Meet some of the 20+ authors and artists at Seattle Urban Book Expo
 |   West Seattle books | West Seattle news | White Center

Got a reader on your holiday gift list – kid, teen, adult? You’ll find a variety of books – and their authors/artists – at the Seattle Urban Book Expo, happening right now at Acts on Stage Theater in White Center (10806 12th SW). We stopped by in the first hour and talked with four of the participants – Sinaya Parrott might be the youngest:

Sinaya’s book “Come Meet the Rabbits” is about her bunnies Sunny and Rooty. She also has a website, pawcastkids.com. We talked with another author whose book is for kids and features animals, La Manda Jeannine Davis:

La Manda explained that her book “Surprise, It’s Just Pee” is a “potty-training” book of sorts, advocating against punishing/shaming pets if they have accidents. She’s also worked on an animation of the story. We also talked with an author/illustrator we’ve introduced you to before, Danitra Hunter:

She’s there with her work featuring Purrdie Burrdie, espousing self-love and self-confidence. … The expo also features adult-themed work, like what CJ Dudley is showing:

CJ is an author and artist as well as a singer, rapper, and poet. His work includes the poetry book “Letters to a Blind Man: America, God, Love, And Myself.”

In all, the Seattle Urban Book Expo – first one in White Center, coordinator Jeffrey Cheatham II told us – features more than 20 BIPOC authors and artists. It’s on until 6 pm, free admission, and if you’re there at 5, writer/publisher Marcus Harrison Green is scheduled to speak.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Stolen tan Tahoe; apparently abandoned red Civic; home break-in
December 2, 2023 1:49 pm
|      6 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Three reader reports in West Seattle Crime Watch:

STOLEN TAN TAHOE: From Brian:

Our tan 1995 Tahoe was stolen from our driveway on lower Henderson Street. The vehicle was stolen sometime between midnight (12/2) and 5 am. Washington plates AFL3344. Barn doors on rear and no emblems to indicate Chevy/Tahoe. License plate frames had “Catch and Release Wild Trout” both front and back. SPD report # 23-346806.

APPARENTLY ABANDONED RED CIVIC: From an anonymous texter:

There’s an abandoned red Hyundai Honda Civic at the corner of 26th and Brandon with the front wheel off. I reported on Find It Fix It but thought you might be interested in posting in case the owner wants to come get it before it is towed. License plate number BMS0627.

UPDATE: Commenter below says the car is NOT abandoned – it was in a crash and was towed there.

HOME BURGLARY: This report is from Kathy:

Our neighbor’s house on 54th Ave SW near Dakota St. was broken into this week. The neighbors are still assessing the damage and loss. It appears the crooks entered the backyard from the alley, then smashed the back glass door to get into the house.

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WEEKEND SCENE: Selfies with Santa @ West Seattle Junction Hometown Holidays
December 2, 2023 1:23 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

West Seattle Junction Hometown Holidays Selfies with Santa are a hot (and free) ticket today! We snapped a pic of Santa between families, with a line forming shortly after he was set up in the Holiday Room at noon. He’s there – in the Junction HQ building at 4210 SW Oregon, immediately east of Shadowland – until 3 pm. The Holiday Room also will be open for Santa-less DIY photos Monday-Friday (December 4-8), 3-7 pm, as featured in our West Seattle Holiday Guide – and if you’re looking for other Santa photo ops, there’s a full-season list in our guide too!

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HOLIDAY GIVING: Easy way to donate food, coats in The Junction
December 2, 2023 11:16 am
|    Comments Off on HOLIDAY GIVING: Easy way to donate food, coats in The Junction
 |   How to help | West Seattle news

11:16 AM: Above are the Caudles – Atticus, Leah, Dominic, and Tim. For the fourth year, they’re collecting food and coats for the West Seattle Food Bank and Westside Interfaith Network, in a drive-up/ride-up one-day event. Until 3 pm, all you have to do is roll on into the lot behind Hope Lutheran, off SW Oregon just east of 42nd SW, and they’ll happily unload your donation(s). As our daily list shows, plenty of other holiday happenings are in progress in The Junction, so if you’re going that way anyway, check your cupboard and closet to see what you can spare! (Or if you live nearby, just walk it on over.)

5 PM: If you missed the Caudles’ drive, see the list of giving opportunities in our Holiday Guide for other ways to donate coats, warm clothing, food (and more).

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Meet ‘Tracing Alki’ artist
December 2, 2023 10:44 am
|      6 COMMENTS
 |   Utilities | West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

If you run, walk, or ride along Alki, you’ve probably seen the recently completed “Tracing Alki” public art at newly overhauled Pump Station 38. The artist, Sarah Thompson Moore, is there until noon to answer questions about it. It’s inspired by old topographical maps of the area and spans the site (1400 block Alki Avenue SW) from the cabinet in the photo to the newly installed safety rail. The concept was announced in 2020, as Seattle Public Utilities prepared for the pump-station renovation.

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WEST SEATTLE WEATHER: Early-morning wind topples trees (updated)
December 2, 2023 9:55 am
|      14 COMMENTS
 |   Utilities | West Seattle news | West Seattle weather

9:55 AM: West Seattle escaped major power outages when the wind swept through for a few hours this morning – but there is one 27-customer outage on the Seattle City Light map, and that tree is the reason. Thanks to David for sending the photo and reporting, “We didn’t totally escape unscathed from last night’s wind storm. The wind knocked down a tree in the back of the apartments at 5220 California at around 3 am. So far that building and the ones behind it are out of power – no word from SFD or SCL on when they are coming to address the downed power lines.” Let us know if you are seeing any other storm damage – here in Upper Fauntleroy, a tree-sized branch came off a big evergreen, but landed harmlessly on an unoccupied planting strip. As for the weather, partly sunny and calm right now, but more major rain is on the way by tomorrow.

1:10 PM: That outage is fixed. But it wasn’t the only big tree brought down early today:

That photo is from Seaview resident Kaci, who says, “We lost a big beautiful Aspen tree during the windstorm last night. It fell at about 3 am. No major damage to our house except our rain gutters. Our catio didn’t fare so well.”

4:55 PM: A commenter notes that the first situation isn’t entirely resolved, and indeed, a new marker on the outage map shows that.

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