West Seattle, Washington

17 Thursday

65℉

Spotlight Stories


  • Parade

    WS GRAND PARADE: Just two days away!

  • Teacher

    STAR HONORS TEACHER: WSHS educator’s big win

  • RTCC

    REAL-TIME CRIME CENTER: WS use?

Two notes for West Seattle wine lovers
August 17, 2023 8:49 pm
|    Comments Off on Two notes for West Seattle wine lovers
 |   West Seattle news | WS beverages

First – a reminder that Highland Park Corner Store‘s first-ever “Pouring West Seattle” event – six local wineries at one venue – is just two days away. Details are in our preview from a week and a half ago. You can get discount advance tickets for the 4-7 pm Saturday (August 19th) event – while they last – by going here.

Second – tickets have just gone on sale for the next West Seattle Wine Walk in The Junction. It’s happening 5-9 pm Friday, September 29th, at merchants all over The Junction. This twice-yearly event routinely sells out in advance so you might as well get in on it early by going here.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Garage burglary
August 17, 2023 6:45 pm
|      9 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Sent by Christine:

Just want to get the word out that we have had an increase in criminal activity on the 3200 block of 44th Ave SW. (Tuesday) night someone entered our garage and stole a men’s bicycle, a cordless drill, a blower and hedge trimmer, two skateboards, and the batteries and chargers to the garden tools and drill. Two other neighbors have had similar incidents in the last two weeks. We are filing a police report. Just want others to be aware and to keep doors locked.

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OVER! All floats found in West Seattle Glass Float Hunt 2023
August 17, 2023 4:50 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   Fun stuff to do | West Seattle news

Just in from organizers – the final two glass floats have been found, so the second annual West Seattle Glass Float Hunt is over. The scavenger-hunt-style search for a total of 100 floats was a collaboration of the West Seattle Junction Association and West Seattle Chamber of Commerce, with the floats hand-blown in West Seattle by Avalon Glassworks. Last year, a grant covered the cost; this year, money from sales of bridge-closure “Reunited” T-shirts provided the funding; WSJA executive director Chris Mackay told us today they’re hoping for a grant so they can do it again next year, and maybe even broaden the invitation beyond the peninsula, so float-hunting becomes a reason to visit West Seattle. P.S. We’re told the last one found was found today near the Duwamish Tribe Longhouse.

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UPDATE: Crash at top of Charlestown hill
August 17, 2023 4:40 pm
|      12 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

(Added: Photo sent by Todd)

4:40 PM: Thanks to Kelsey for the tip. SW Charlestown is blocked at 46th SW right now because of a crash. Avoid the area.

4:43 PM: Apparently no serious injuries – the one SFD engine that responded has closed out the call.

8:32 PM: SFD says crews evaluated two men, a 41-year-old with no reported injuries and an 18-year-old with minor injuries; neither was taken to a hospital.

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FOLLOWUP: WSDOT says one-third of Myers Way encampment residents have moved into housing
August 17, 2023 3:28 pm
|      11 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news

(July photo courtesy Diane Radischat)

Almost a month after state and city reps met with Arrowhead Gardens residents< for an update on the encampment across Myers Way from the senior-living complex, it's still there, but the state says progress is being made toward "resolving" it. WSDOT circulated another update out this afternoon, saying that 18 of the 52 known residents “have moved into housing options with the assistance of service providers” and others are expected to do the same “in the coming weeks.” Outreach workers are continuing to work with people at the site, WSDOT says. However, that’s required law-enforcement presence, the update adds, explaining:

Many of you will notice a Washington State Patrol presence at the site this week. As you know, the encampment gets visitors that don’t live onsite, but do affect the dynamics from a safety perspective, so service providers in coordination with WSDOT and WSP requested a law enforcement presence as a safety measure and deterrent.

The update reiterates, “This encampment remains our top multijurisdictional priority site to address as part of the Right of Way Safety Initiative and the Washington State Department of Transportation, the Washington State Patrol, the state Department of Commerce, King County Regional Homeless Authority and the City of Seattle are working together to finalize a site resolution plan.” No timeline mentioned. Shortly after last month’s meeting at Arrowhead Gardens, crews did some cleanup at the site (photo above), including removal of unauthorized fencing and an inflatable pool that had inspired incredulity from observers.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Business hit by theft
August 17, 2023 1:37 pm
|      15 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Meeples Games (3727 California SW) is looking for help in solving a theft that happened Tuesday night:

These two individuals were (first) seen outside Meeples; they seemed to be acting a bit strange. So one employee told the other to be on the lookout for them. The two came into the store separately and looked at different areas of the store. They seemed to be causing a distraction from the other person so that one could look at products. The one in the darker clothing with the Target bag was stalking the Magic the Gathering product and slowly started putting Magic the Gathering product into his Target bag. They both asked questions about expensive Magic the Gathering cards and when the one in the darker clothing went to purchase a deck box, the employee behind the counter noted to him that his Target bag wasn’t that full when he came in and asked to see a receipt of purchase for the items. He left immediately. They weren’t seen in any vehicle, at least from what our employees noticed.

If you have any information, the SPD incident number is 23-234751. You can also contact Meeples’ owner Laura at laura@meeplesgames.com.

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FOLLOWUP: Alki Elementary rebuild project, one week post-ruling
August 17, 2023 11:56 am
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

(WSB photo, today)

One week has passed since a city hearing examiner told Seattle Public Schools that it has to “revisit” the plan to rebuild Alki Elementary with no off-street parking. But we don’t know yet how that “revisiting” will be done. The district has said only that it’s “reviewing” the decision, which was in favor of an appeal filed by nearby residents, following the city’s decision to grant nine zoning exceptions for the project (the appeals of six of the other eight were rejected). So we checked with the city’s permitting authority, the Department of Construction and Inspections. SDCI spokesperson Wendy Shark tells us that “they are having their first meeting to determine next steps” by the end of this week, so they should know next week how they’ll be proceeding. Meantime, we just went by the site, and at least from 59th, it appears idle after a second burst of demolition earlier this week.

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The list for your West Seattle Thursday
August 17, 2023 9:59 am
|      7 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Photo by Steve Bender. ID, anyone?)

Highlights for today and tonight!

GLASS FLOAT HUNT: As of early this morning, two remain unfound! (Backstory here.)

NATIONAL THRIFT SHOP DAY SALE: Celebrate – and help raise money to fight cancer – by shopping the storewide 25%-off sale at Discovery Shop West Seattle (4535 California SW), 10 am-4:30 pm.

SPRAYPARK OPEN: Daily operations continue through Labor Day at Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale), 11 am-8 pm.

SUMMER MEALS FOR KIDS: Here’s the list of local sites where free food is available for kids on weekdays this summer, 11:30 am-1 pm lunch, 2-3 pm snacks.

HIAWATHA WADING POOL OPEN: Noon-5:30 pm. (2700 California SW)

LINCOLN PARK WADING POOL OPEN: Noon-7 pm. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

COLMAN POOL OPEN: Also at Lincoln Park, noon-7 pm – here’s the schedule of sessions.

DROP-IN ASSISTANCE: Neighborhood House has resources to help with a variety of things – noon-1:30 pm today, drop in to talk about utilities. (6400 Sylvan Way SW)

WEST SEATTLE UKULELE PLAYERS: All levels welcome to this weekly 1 pm gathering. Email westseattleukuleleplayerswsup@gmail.com to see where they’re playing today.

FAMILY HEALTH FAIR: 4-6 pm with resources including school supplies, at Greenbridge Plaza (8th SW/SW 99th).

THURSDAY FOOD-TRUCK POP-UP: 4-8 pm at Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW), Tat’s will be visiting.

HIGHLAND PARK RUN CLUB: Also at HP Corner Store, meet up at 6:30 pm for a 3-mile run!

Update: just got word that this event has been canceled LEARN ABOUT SENIOR LIVING: Village Green West Seattle (2615 SW Barton; WSB sponsor) hosts this discussion, featuring other local facilities and services so you can learn about senior-living options. RSVP info is in our calendar listing.

BOOK SIGNING: 6-8 pm at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW), meet concert photographer Steve Schneider as he signs and sells his book “The First Three Songs,” as previewed here.

WEST SEATTLE TIMEBANK: Picnic at Lincoln Park with the West Seattle Timebank, 6-8 pm – specific location and other details are in our calendar listing. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

WESTIES RUN CLUB: Meet at The Good Society (California/Lander) at 6 pm for a 3-mile run – more in our calendar listing.

TREE VIGIL: Gathering at 7 pm at 41st/Southern in Gatewood near two trees that are reportedly slated for removal – details here.

THURSDAY NIGHT CORNHOLE: Go play at Ounces (3809 Delridge Way SW), 7 pm.

Look ahead any time with our calendar!

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MUSIC: Fall registration open for Endolyne Children’s Choir
August 17, 2023 9:09 am
|    Comments Off on MUSIC: Fall registration open for Endolyne Children’s Choir
 |   West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

As the start of school approaches, so does the start of fall activities, including music! Endolyne Children’s Choir asked us to share this announcement:

Calling all young voices in West Seattle! Embark on a musical journey with Endolyne Children’s Choir this Fall.

Unleash your inner star as we harmonize, uplift, and create unforgettable melodies together. Dive into the world of music theory and fine-tune your performance skills, all while immersing yourself in an atmosphere of fun and community.

We’re thrilled to introduce the latest additions to our esteemed teaching staff: the gifted Clara Dorst and the talented Dylan Petersen. Under the expert guidance of music director Megan Booth, this dynamic trio is set to orchestrate an unforgettable experience for our singers.

Mark your calendars – registration is open until August 28th. Secure your spot now and let your voice soar with Endolyne Children’s Choir!

The registration page has more details, including registration schedules.

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER: Thursday info
August 17, 2023 6:02 am
|    Comments Off on TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER: Thursday info
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:02 AM: Good morning! It’s Thursday, August 17th.

WEATHER & SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

The National Weather Service‘s heat advisory continues until late tonight. Today’s forecast: Sunny, high in the upper 80s. Today’s sunrise will be at 6:08 am; sunset will be at 8:18 pm.

TRANSIT TODAY

Metro – regular schedule – check here for advisories.

Water Taxi – regular schedule.

Washington State Ferries – 2-boat service. Check Vessel Watch to see where the boats are.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

Delridge cameras: Besides the one below (Delridge/Henderson), cameras are also up 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 cam:

1st Ave. S. Bridge – alternate 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 Twitter feed 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 it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities). Thank you!

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COUNTDOWN: 4 days until Alki Beach Pride 2023
August 16, 2023 10:33 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle festivals | West Seattle news

That’s the Frederick Films video, including aerial views, from August 5th, when Alki Beach Pride organizers and volunteers unrolled the giant Seattle PrideFest rainbow flag across the beach. That was intended to help set the stage for this Sunday (August 20th), the ninth annual Alki Beach Pride celebration, this year featuring a street party. Now the big day is just four days away, noon-7 pm, plus an outdoor movie at dusk. Entertainment previews have been rolling out here; 10 venues are offering discounts during the festival if you have a wristband, which costs $5 (get yours here). Alki Avenue SW will be closed between Marine and 60th for festival activities.

P.S. While not an official part of the festival, Harry’s Beach House has announced two seatings for a drag brunch that day.

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FOLLOWUP: West Seattle will meet its troll soon
August 16, 2023 8:18 pm
|      73 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

That photo from Portland was shared by a WSB reader who was there last weekend as the first installation in the series “Northwest Trolls: Way of the Bird King“ was unveiled. (The troll’s name is Olebolle.) As previewed here back in June, one of the other five trolls by Danish artist Thomas Dambo is being installed at West Seattle’s Lincoln Park. And work is under way, according to the readers who have deluged the WSB inbox with sightings. One of the volunteers working on the site sent this photo.

As explained in the original announcement, the trolls – like dozens Danbo has installed around the world – are being built with used/recycled materials – mostly wooden pallets. The West Seattle site is adorned with signs explaining what’s going on:

Despite this happening in a very public place, where hundreds if not thousands have seen it already, the privately funded project coordinated by the Scan Design Foundation is trying to keep a bit of mystery, so we’re not going to be the ones to spoil it for you – as the sign says, the “grand reveal” is just nine days away. As the construction continues, the volunteer who emailed us advises, “Follow the sound of power tools and hammers.” The other four, after ours and Portland’s, are planned for Ballard, Issaquah, and Vashon and Bainbridge Islands; the schedules are on the artist’s Instagram feed, including a peek at the one that’s almost complete on Bainbridge.

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FRIDAY: Outdoor movie, food drive @ Camp Long
August 16, 2023 5:39 pm
|    Comments Off on FRIDAY: Outdoor movie, food drive @ Camp Long
 |   How to help | West Seattle news | West Seattle Outdoor Movies

That’s the trailer for “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” which you can watch for free this Friday night (August 18th) in the meadow at Camp Long (5200 35th SW). It’s the WS Junction Association‘s one and only West Seattle Outdoor Movie presentation this summer, and the movie will start at sundown (sunset is at about 8:20 pm right now). Bring your own chairs/blankets and nonperishable food for the West Seattle Food Bank! (Friday’s forecast says the high will be back to a seasonally typical 70-something.)

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WEST SEATTLE WEATHER: One extra day of alert-level heat
August 16, 2023 5:02 pm
|    Comments Off on WEST SEATTLE WEATHER: One extra day of alert-level heat
 |   West Seattle news

Good news is (unless you like high temperatures), the Excessive Heat Warning alert is still set to expire tonight at 11 pm. Not-so-good news, it will be immediately replaced by a Heat Advisory alert that’ll be in effect another 24 hours, until 11 pm Thursday. The National Weather Service says tomorrow could still get into the 90s before a return to more-seasonal temperatures in time for the weekend.

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UPDATE: Fire closes ramp to Highway 509
August 16, 2023 3:28 pm
|      19 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle fires | West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

(Reader photos sent by Julie)

3:28 PM: Texters say at least one of the ramps to 509 at the end of the Roxbury corridor is closed because of that fire. SFD calls it a “brush fire” so far and says it’s affecting the ramp to northbound 509 at Cloverdale.

4:10 PM: SFD says the fire’s out and the last two engines on scene will be wrapping up their work.

9 PM: We asked SFD about what firefighters found. Spokesperson David Cuerpo replied, “I spoke to the crews and they confirmed fires occurred within encampments in two separate areas on opposite sides of SR509. The fires are extinguished, and no occupants were found. One firefighter sustained minor injuries and was relieved for the day.”

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FESTIVALS: West Seattle Junction’s fall celebration splitting into two dates this year
August 16, 2023 1:57 pm
|      7 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle festivals | West Seattle news

(WSB photo from 2022 Harvest Fest cornhole tournament)

Starting this year, the West Seattle Junction Association is separating its trick-or-treating event from the rest of the fall fun with which it used to be combined as the Harvest Festival. WSJA has announced 11 am-2 pm Sunday, September 24th, as the date for the West Seattle Junction Fall Festival, including favorite activities such as the chili cookoff, cornhole tournament, pie-eating contest, and live music, with less chance of a rainout, less need for major bundling-up. The festival stage will be at Walk-All-Ways, and activities will stretch into the block between Alaska and Edmunds. Then, Junction trick-or-treating will happen on the Sunday closest to Halloween, during the Farmers’ Market on October 29th, 10 am-2 pm, with merchants and partners handing out candy. Watch for more details on both events soon, but in the meantime, set your calendar!

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ELECTION 2023: Final primary numbers
August 16, 2023 12:58 pm
|      20 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

King County Elections has certified the final numbers from the August 1st primary vote. Now it’s on to the November 7th general election for the top two finishers in these races that were on your ballot:

SEATTLE CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 1 (West Seattle, South Park, SODO, Georgetown, Pioneer Square), 36.8% turnout

Maren Costa 8,787 33.13 %
Rob Saka 6,397 24.12 %
Phil Tavel 5,324 20.07 %
Preston Anderson 2,222 8.38 %
Stephen Brown 1,659 6.26 %
Jean Iannelli Craciun 838 3.16 %
Lucy Barefoot 767 2.89 %
Mia Jacobson 472 1.78 %
Write-in 55 0.21 %

KING COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT 8 (including West Seattle, White Center, Vashon/Maury Islands, Burien), 33.7% turnout

Teresa Mosqueda 28,966 57.57 %
Sofia Aragon 18,900 37.56 %
GoodSpaceGuy 2,216 4.40 %
Write-in 234 0.47 %

SEATTLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOARD OF DIRECTORS DISTRICT 6 (West Seattle/most of South Park), 36.3% turnout

Gina Topp 19,845 79.70 %
Maryanne Wood 3,546 14.24 %
Rosie McCarter 1,386 5.57 %
Write-in 123 0.49 %

SEATTLE PORT COMMISSION POSITION 5 (countywide vote), 30.2% turnout

Fred Felleman* 215,148 56.52 %
Jesse Tam 97,548 25.63 %
Todd Curtis 65,935 17.32 %
Write-in 2,006 0.53 %

KC Elections will release the final precinct-by-precinct breakouts here later today.

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YOU CAN HELP: West Seattle’s emergency shelter, open for high temps, is low on supplies
August 16, 2023 11:38 am
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   How to help | West Seattle news | West Seattle weather

West Seattle’s emergency shelter – which runs on donations and volunteer help – is open for the hot weather, its manager Keith Hughes tells WSB, until 8 pm today and again 11 am-8 pm tomorrow “with food, water, and AC. However, we are very low in supplies, so I have attached my Supplies Wish List. Also, keeping the hall open and running the AC for days is a strain on our finances, which are all voluntary donations from the community. Pepple can donate items from the Wish List, or go to our website, westsideneighborsshelter.org and make a cash donation [update: direct link here] to help with the electric and water bill.” Here’s the wish list:

Food Pantry

Ground Coffee (Folgers 3# cans)
powdered coffee creamer (like Coffeemate)
Instant Hot Cocoa Mix (for hot water)
Bottled water
Soft drinks in cans (store brands and things on sale)

Instant Oatmeal packets
Granola-type low-sugar cereal
Pancake mix, Bisquick mix
Pancake syrup, butter, jam
Canned soup, chili, beef stew
Packaged food like top ramen, Cup-o-Noodles

Rice-a-roni, noodle-roni boxes
Dry pasta (spaghetti, egg noodles, macaroni )
Spaghetti sauce in jars

Food store gift cards so we can get fresh things like milk, eggs, butter, meat

Other Needs

Travel-size individual soaps, shampoo; tooth brushes & toothpaste (ask your dentist for donations) bar soap for shower, laundry detergent pods
Toilet paper and paper towels, disinfectant wipes
Single-bed-size blanket

The shelter is co-housed with the West Seattle Veteran Center/American Legion Post 160 at 3618 SW Alaska.

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Here’s what’s up for your West Seattle Wednesday
August 16, 2023 9:45 am
|    Comments Off on Here’s what’s up for your West Seattle Wednesday
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Seen in Seaview and photographed by Al)

Here’s our list of highlights for the rest of today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

WSHS FALL SPORTS: Today is the first day of practice and/or tryouts for most West Seattle High School fall sports; our calendar listing has details.

TODDLER READING TIME: 10:30 am at Paper Boat Booksellers (6040 California SW).

HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK: Open 11 am-8 pm. (1100 SW Cloverdale)

SUMMER MEALS FOR KIDS: Here’s the list of local sites where free food is available for kids on weekdays this summer, 11:30 am-1 pm lunch, 2-3 pm snacks.

DELRIDGE WADING POOL: Noon-5:30 pm – last week for this wading pool, set to close for the year after Friday. (4501 Delridge Way SW)

LINCOLN PARK WADING POOL: Noon-7 pm – see weather note above. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

COLMAN POOL: Also at Lincoln Park, this outdoor salt-water pool is open noon-7 pm daily through Labor Day. See the session schedule here.

REGISTRATION FOR ESL CLASSES: 1-3:30 pm, Neighborhood House High Point is offering signups for ESL classes coming up at South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) – details in our calendar listing.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS PROGRAM: Kickoff event 5-7 pm at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW) for a new program coming to West Seattle – our preview has info including exact location.

FIX-IT WORKSHOP: Don’t replace it – repair it! Weekly event, 5:30-7:30 pm at West Seattle Tool Library (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center).

TRIVIA x 6: Here’s where to play tonight. At 6 pm, Locust Cider (2820 Alki SW) now offers trivia … at 7 pm, West Seattle Brewing (4415 Fauntleroy Way SW) has trivia hosted by Will D. … there’s 7:30 and 8:30 pm Sporcle Pub Quiz at The Lodge (4209 SW Alaska); trivia starts at 8 pm at Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW); Larry’s Tavern (3405 California SW) hosts Wednesday-night trivia starting at 8 pm … at 8:30 pm, trivia with Phil T at Talarico’s (4718 California SW).

LIVE MUSIC AT THE LOCOL: 6:30 pm. 21+. Rotating performer slate. (7902 35th SW)

LIVE PIANO MUSIC: 7 pm at Otter on the Rocks. (4210 SW Admiral Way).

MUSIC BINGO: Play weekly at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7 pm.

SKYLARK OPEN MIC: 7:30 pm signups @ West Seattle’s longest-running open mic – no cover to watch. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

Planning a presentation, meeting, performance, reading, tour, fundraiser, sale, discussion, or …? If it’s open to the community, please send us info for West Seattle’s only comprehensive event calendar! westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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Remembering Jack Blondin, 1939-2023
August 16, 2023 9:00 am
|    Comments Off on Remembering Jack Blondin, 1939-2023
 |   Obituaries | West Seattle news

Family and friends are remembering Jack Blondin, and sharing this with the community:

Jack Blondin
September 20, 1939 – August 2, 2023

Jack passed away peacefully at home with family after an 11-year battle with multiple myeloma. He was born in 1939 in Tacoma to John and Mildred Blondin along with his sister Anne and brother Kring (both deceased). His family followed his father’s job as a Civil Engineer to Hawaii, San Francisco, Elmer City, Mill Valley, Bremerton, and Kelowna, BC, where he graduated high school. He graduated in Economics from the UW, Seattle, where he met Linda Berry, and they married in 1964.

His passion was being on the water, boating throughout the San Juans and the Canadian Gulf Islands. He started as a Sea Scout, founded Far East Yachts, owned a marine electronics company, and joined Seattle Yacht Club, where he made many life-long friends and held the offices of Staff Captain, Quartermaster, Treasurer, Trustee, and was awarded the prestigious Carl Zecher award for outstanding service.

A financial advisor with Merrill Lynch in Seattle for 34 years, he brought a conservative approach and personal concern for the success of his clients. He volunteered with Junior Achievement to prepare young people to succeed in life.

Jack and Linda traveled extensively in Europe and Asia, which opened his eyes to the fact people have the same wish for peace and a good life for their families the world over. Retirement brought long summers on the boat, an annual return to Hawaii, and lots of playing dress-up with granddaughter Dori and living-room fishing expeditions with grandson Logan. Family was the most important thing to Jack.

He is survived by Linda, his wife of 59 years; daughters Christina Hasselbalch and Heidi Blondin and grandchildren Doriana Hasselbalch and Logan Blondin; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held in September. Share memories at www.emmickfunerals.com/obituary/Jack-Blondin

(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: Wednesday notes
August 16, 2023 6:03 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

7:35 AM: A tree is reported to be blocking California Way between Hamilton Viewpoint and Harbor Ave.

Earlier:

6:03 AM: Good morning! It’s Wednesday, August 16th.

WEATHER & SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

The National Weather Service‘s heat alert continues until late tonight. Today’s forecast: Sunny, high in the upper 80s. Today’s sunrise will be at 6:06 am; sunset will be at 8:20 pm.

(Tuesday sunset, photographed by Carol Ann Joyce)

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

As previously noted, today is the first scheduled day of 2023-2024 classes at Summit Atlas, the charter middle/high school at 35th/Roxbury in Arbor Heights.

TRANSIT TODAY

Metro – regular schedule – check here for advisories.

Water Taxi – regular schedule.

Washington State Ferries – 2-boat service. Check Vessel Watch to see where the boats are.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

Delridge cameras: Besides the one below (Delridge/Henderson), cameras are also up 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 cam:

1st Ave. S. Bridge – alternate 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 Twitter feed 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 it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities). Thank you!

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Trailer stolen; Kia theft attempt fails
August 15, 2023 10:57 pm
|      6 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Two reader reports:

TRAILER STOLEN: Sent by Dan:

Trailer in attached image taken from our driveway today in Fairmount Park neighborhood. No license plate or rear gate on trailer. An attempt to steal it occurred Saturday by a male and female in Ford Econoline van that now has front right damage after they smashed into my car!!

We’ll add the report # when we get it.

KIA THEFT ATTEMPT FAILS: From Carolyn:

Sometime late Sunday night/early Monday morning, someone broke into my car. Parked in front of the house (west of The Junction). They smashed the passenger-side window and attempted to hotwire the car but failed. The police report number is 23-232990. Nothing was (thankfully) stolen from the inside of the car. Car is a 2014 black Kia Forte.

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FESTIVAL: Here’s the 2023 Admiral Funktion band lineup!
August 15, 2023 10:12 pm
|    Comments Off on FESTIVAL: Here’s the 2023 Admiral Funktion band lineup!
 |   West Seattle festivals | West Seattle news

One of the three street festivals coming up in the next two weekends announced its band lineup tonight. Here’s who’ll be playing at the Admiral Funktion, which the Admiral Neighborhood Association will present for a second year, 11 am-10 pm Saturday, August 26th, on California SW between Admiral and College:

Music is just part of what’ll be happening during Admiral Funktion. Festival admission will be free but ANA is fundraising to support the cost of making it happen; as they note on the crowdfunding page, any donation is welcome, and those donating $25 or more get a wristband good for food/drink discounts during the festival.

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