Two reader reports in West Seattle Crime Watch tonight:

BUILDING BURGLARY: From OT:

On November 10th at 12:31 AM, someone broke into our apartment building located near 35th Ave SW and Morgan St (High Point/Fairmount Park area).

The intruder wore a light brown Carhartt beanie on his head, a black-and-brown plaid flannel shirt obscuring a shirt with a visual design on the front, gray cargo shorts, and black Adidas sneakers with white stripes. He also wore thick rings on the middle and ring fingers of his right hand. After peering into the lobby through the doors, he took out some kind of small tool from his right pocket – possibly a long screwdriver – then managed to force the door open. He entered the lobby, grabbed a box left sitting out, looked down the hallways in search of more packages to steal, then left the building. If anyone has information on who this man is, the police report number is 2024-944975.

HIT AND RUN: From RM, who says this happened early Tuesday, just before 2 am:

Attached is a video of a hit and run accident in front of my house. We don’t know who the driver is but we know that the car is a teal Toyota FJ Cruiser. In total that we know of, he totaled two cars and damaged another one north of this accident. We need your help finding the culprit of the crime. And in addition my laptop was stolen from the trunk.

This happened in the 7700 block of Delridge Way SW; the SPD incident # is 24-319356.

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CAMP LONG: More than a building burned. Here’s how you can help rebuild the ‘catalogue’

| West Seattle fires | West Seattle history | West Seattle news | West Seattle parks

(WSB photo, Tuesday)

Four days after Camp Long‘s historic lodge was gutted by a fire that’s been ruled arson, the park’s supervisor Matt Kostle asked us to share this with the community, because more has been lost than a building:

Dearest friends, community members and supporters of Camp Long,

Thank you all for your thoughts and support after this tragic fire.

At this time, we do not have any updates on the investigation. We also do not yet have any updates on the next steps for our park. We ask that you look to Seattle Parks and Recreation Communications Department for any updates as they come. We know how special this place is to everyone and what a terrible loss this is to the West Seattle Community. We are so grateful to you for your outpouring of support, memories and inquiries as we grieve this catastrophic event.

In addition to the devastation of our beloved lodge, we also lost everything within it. This includes many historic photos, documents and stories of all the magic that has happened here over the years.

In light of this, we are reaching out to all of you, our community, friends and supporters, to share with us your stories and photos so we can rebuild a new Camp Long Catalogue of history. Below is a link where you can upload photos and stories you would like to share with us, and that we may feature on our social media sites in the days and weeks to come:

form.jotform.com/camplongchallenge/camp-long-catalogue

Parks’ most recent public comment was that the lodge is still being “assessed” so they can decide what to do next.

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CONTINUING SATURDAY: Get in the Christmas mood at The Mount’s holiday bazaar

November 15, 2024 5:34 pm

| Comments Off on CONTINUING SATURDAY: Get in the Christmas mood at The Mount’s holiday bazaar

| Holidays | West Seattle news

(Photos by Sharonn Meeks)

The first day of the Providence Mount St. Vincent (WSB sponsor) holiday bazaar saw a good turnout – and not only holiday gift ideas, but also holiday decor. Plus history:

As mentioned here last night, the contents of the time capsule opened earlier this year – The Mount’s centennial year – are on display. And you can contribute ideas of what should go into the new one that’s going to be hidden away to await its opening in another hundred years. Or, you can go just to browse the many items from many eras:

The bazaar, and its bake sale, are happening just inside the east entrance at 4831 35th SW, continuing tomorrow (Saturday, November 16) 10 am-4 pm.

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TONIGHT: Explore nighttime low-low tide in West Seattle with beach naturalists

November 15, 2024 4:29 pm

| 1 COMMENT

| West Seattle beaches | West Seattle news

(February 2023 photo sent by Sara)

Thanks to Midi for the heads-up on this, which wasn’t in our calendar: With a low-low tide of -3.1 feet expected at 10:17 pm, Seattle Aquarium volunteer beach naturalists will be out at Constellation Park (63rd/Beach Drive), 8-10 pm. Here’s their advice:

We recommend bringing a bright flashlight or headlamp, layering up to stay warm and wearing sturdy boots or shoes that have a good grip and can get wet. To help care for our marine environment, make sure to walk with gentle steps (there is life beneath your feet!) and observe animals where they are (that is their home!).

The event is free, all ages. Look for the naturalists’ canopy. (They won’t be there tomorrow night, but the tide will be even lower – out to -3.5 feet at 10:59 pm.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Police pursuit followed string of robberies including two in West Seattle

November 15, 2024 2:03 pm

| 17 COMMENTS

| Crime | West Seattle news

2:03 PM: After reports of a police pursuit northbound on 16th SW and onto the eastbound West Seattle Bridge in the 7:30-8 am vicinity this morning, we asked SPD for more information. They’ve just provided it via SPD Blotter, detailing a series of robberies including two in West Seattle:

Seattle Police are searching for suspects in a string of robberies targeting businesses in South and Southwest Seattle.

Early this morning, a group of people dressed in face masks and dark clothing entered convenience stores and gas stations in and around Georgetown, Rainier Valley, High Point, and West Seattle neighborhoods armed with firearms. In each robbery the suspect/suspects displayed weapons at store employees. In some incidents they demanded cash.

The suspects fled with stolen merchandise and cash. No one was injured.

A blue Kia sedan, believed to be related to the robberies, was recovered from 16th Avenue South and East Marginal Way South. A witness reported seeing the vehicle driving erratically before hitting a curb. Officers found the vehicle disabled and unoccupied. The car was an unreported stolen vehicle and will be processed for evidence.

Seattle Police Robbery Unit Detectives arrived at the scene and are leading the investigation. No suspects are in custody currently.

If anyone has information, please contact Violent Crimes Tip Line at (206) 233-5000.

The robberies occurred in the following locations:

Incident Number 2024-323332. At 5:25 a.m., in the 7200 block of East Marginal Way South.

Incident Number 2024-323336. At 5:37 a.m., in the 2800 block of Rainier Avenue South.

Incident Number 2024-323367. At 6:40 a.m., in the 7500 block of 35th Avenue Southwest.

Incident Number 2024-323372. At 6:50 a.m., in the 4500 block of Fauntleroy Way Southwest.
We’re still trying to find out exactly how the vehicle that was being pursued onto the bridge factored into this, as archived radio indicates that at one point, officers were looking for two vehicles described as a “silver sedan” and “dark KIA.”

3:33 PM: Listening back to the archived audio, once the police summary provided us with the incident times, two notes: First, the robbery locations in West Seattle were Space Age and Fauntleroy Shell; two, what’s believed to be the same robbery “crew” also showed up at the Junction 7-11, but the doors were locked, so they left.

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FAUNTLEROY YMCA: Town Hall ‘progress report’ December 4

November 15, 2024 1:35 pm

| Comments Off on FAUNTLEROY YMCA: Town Hall ‘progress report’ December 4

| Fauntleroy | West Seattle news

(WSB file photo)

It’s been going on a year now since the possibility of closing the Fauntleroy YMCA shocked community members. The YMCA (WSB sponsor) convened a town-hall meeting in January to talk about the challenges and possibilities. Since then, they’ve committed to working with the community to keep it open, and the Fauntleroy Y has expanded its hours and programming. Now it’s time for a public progress report. Branch administrator Ethan Clarke sends word of a town-hall meeting set for 6 pm December 4 at the Fellowship Hall of Fauntleroy Church (the Y is co-housed with the church). All welcome, whether or not you’re a Y member.

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VIDEO: Salmon still showing up in Longfellow Creek, and one way you can help them

November 15, 2024 11:58 am

| 5 COMMENTS

| Environment | West Seattle news | Wildlife

(Video by Tom Trulin)

Thanks for sending the video and photos! Though the Fauntleroy Creek salmon-spawning season was short and sweet, salmon are still showing up in Longfellow Creek.

(Photo by Manuel Valdes)

Puget SoundKeeper Alliance is keeping watch on the Longfellow Creek salmon through their Pre-Spawn Mortality Survey, watching to see how many fish die in the polluted creek before they get a chance to spawn, like this one.

Anna Bachmann shared the Thursday report with WSB:

We are now over a month into the survey and have reported 278 salmon! We have seen 6 Urban Runoff Mortality Syndrome (URMS) cases, 34 cases of pre-spawn mortality, and 81 deceased salmon in total. Below is a nice visualization of the data we currently have comparing salmon reported to the survey day they were seen on. As of right now our peak day was on our 26th survey day, but sightings are still increasing!

You have a chance tomorrow to make a difference for the salmon – Bachmann adds, “This Saturday (November 16, 2024) we are having a cleanup at Longfellow Creek. It will last two hours from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm; please register here if you are interested in coming out to help clean up debris along the creek.” The registration page has information on where to meet up to join the cleanup.

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YOU CAN HELP: Three of West Seattle’s Toys for Tots drives await your gift(s)

November 15, 2024 10:55 am

| 3 COMMENTS

| Holidays | How to help | West Seattle news

Want to make this a happier holiday season for kids? Donating new, unwrapped toys to Toys for Tots is a great way to do that – here are updates on two local drives, first from Denis Shapiro at the Kiwanis Club of West Seattle:

Industrious has volunteered to be a Toys for Tots collection site, joining C & P Coffee (5612 California SW) and Northwest Art & Frame (4733 California SW, collection box shown above). Two carloads of toys have been sent to the Marines’ warehouse. Toy collection is slower than last year because there were no donations in October. Unwrapped toys can be taken to these businesses or to the Kiwanis booth on the south end of the Farmers Market on Sundays. Last day to donate is December 10th.

And here’s another Toys for Tots dropoff spot in West Seattle:

NORTHWEST INSURANCE GROUP: This longtime WSB sponsor at 5431 California SW is again collecting toys too. John Moore at Northwest Insurance Group says you can stop by before December 11 to drop off your toy donation(s) – their office hours are 8:30 am to 4 pm, Mondays through Fridays.

(added Friday night) We’ve heard from one more!

HARBOR INSURANCE: You can donate here until December 18th – 3922 California SW. Just look for the sign in the window!

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Two holiday bazaars, two theater options, music, much more for your West Seattle Friday

November 15, 2024 10:03 am

| 1 COMMENT

| West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(This morning’s moonset, photographed by James Bratsanos)

Here’s what’s happening around West Seattle and vicinity today, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

THE MOUNT’S BAZAAR AND BAKE SALE: Holiday event at Providence Mount St. Vincent (4831 35th SW; WSB sponsor) – first day of the holiday bazaar and bake sale.

INDOOR PLAY: Need an indoor place for your little one to play? 10 am-11:30 am, you’re welcome to “Stay ‘n’ Play” at Arbor Heights Community Church (4113 SW 102nd).

TIRE TURN-IN: Got old tires? Don’t let them sit around polluting – Puget SoundKeeper is sponsoring a tire turn-in event 10 am-3 pm today at 3446 Airport Way S.

SSC GARDEN CENTER: As we get further into fall, season-appropriate plants await you at the north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus, 10 am-3 pm.

WHITE CENTER LIBRARY GUILD BAZAAR: 11 am-4 pm at White Center Library (1409 SW 107th), the guild’s benefit holiday bazaar and book sale begins,

LOG HOUSE MUSEUM: Visit the home of West Seattle’s history, noon-4 pm. (61st SW & SW Stevens)

QI GONG AT VIVA ARTS: 12:15 pm-12:45 pm Fridays. More info in our calendar listing. (4421 Fauntleroy Way SW)

NORTHWEST WINE ACADEMY TASTING ROOM: 1-6 pm, open in the north lot of South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor).

VISCON CELLARS: Season’s just right for the ambience of this cozy tasting room/wine bar, open for wine by the glass or bottle – 5-9 pm – at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor).

WSHS PTSA FALL FUNDRAISER: 5-7 pm in the West Seattle High School Commons (3000 California SW), showcase of student talent and more!

MONTHLY GAME NIGHT: Spruce Hill Winery (WSB sponsor) presents a monthly game night at 2960 4th Ave. S. in nearby SODO, 6 pm – get your reservations!

SOUND BATH FOR THE FULL MOON: 6 pm with Inner Alchemy at 3618 SW Alaska – here’s how to register.

SONGWRITER INCUBATOR NIGHT: Monthly songwriters’ open mic at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW), signups at 6, performances at 6:30.

THEATER AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: 7 pm, staged reading of the play “Make Up” at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor).

AT THE SKYLARK: Doors 7 pm, music 8 pm at The Skylark for Fuzzy Math, Fruit Juice, TRANCES. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

AT THE SPOT: Fridays are Live Artist Showcase nights at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way), 7-10 pm.

‘OPHELIA’ AT WSHS: Second night for the student production, 7:30 pm at the West Seattle High School theater (3000 California SW), details in our calendar listing.

MAKE IT LOUD: Tonight’s music at Southgate Roller Rink features: Tom Price Desert Classic, Student Nurse, Dead on Cue. $5 skates, $18 cover. 21+. (9646 17th SW)

REVELRY ROOM DJ: 9 pm, DJ Peg tonight! (4547 California SW)

JARAY’S DJ: 9 pm, DJ Buzsy at Jaray’s Lounge (2216 SW Orchard).

Are we missing anything? If you have something else to add to our event lists and calendar, please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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NONPROFITS! Get a spotlight in first-ever West Seattle Giving Spirit campaign

November 15, 2024 9:04 am

| 8 COMMENTS

| How to help | West Seattle news

WSB has always sought to give exposure to local nonprofits and their needs. This holiday season, we’re also planning to do that through a new campaign called West Seattle Giving Spirit. Nonprofits interested in participating are invited to apply, as there’s a limited number of dates and it’s first-come first-serve, Here’s what it’s all about:

West Seattle Giving Spirit
A year-end campaign focused on community strength and generosity.

Sponsored by the Learning Communities Foundation and WSB
November 20 – December 27, 2024

Calling all West Seattle and White Center nonprofits to participate in the first-ever coordinated year-end giving campaign with and for area nonprofits!

There are so many incredible nonprofits supporting the communities reached by WSB. West Seattle Giving Spirit will highlight the positive impact that organizations on (and adjacent to) the West Seattle peninsula have on our neighbors, the arts, the environment, and more. When the world finds itself in transition, this is one way to engage, give, and support locally.

From November 20 -December 27, WSB, in partnership with the Learning Communities Foundation, will provide up to sixteen West Seattle or White Center nonprofits a one-day Spotlight and “opportunity to ask” for donations of money and/or volunteer time. To be eligible, nonprofits must have locations or primary services provided within the following zip codes: 98116, 98136, 98126, 98106, 98146.

Interest forms will be reviewed as received and no later than Monday, November 18 at 4 pm.

Info Sheet for Interested Nonprofits (which includes the form links for nonprofits interested in participating)

If you’re not a nonprofit but want to support – watch for participant spotlights starting next week to find out how!

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Funeral on Saturday for Scott C. Stoefen, 1957-2024

November 15, 2024 8:41 am

| 3 COMMENTS

| Obituaries | West Seattle news

Family and friends will gather tomorrow to remember Scott Stoefen. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing with his community:

Scott Clifford Stoefen, beloved by all who knew him, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2024, in West Seattle. Born on November 26, 1957, in North Seattle, he was a graduate of The Overlake School, attended the University of Washington and was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity, UWSigmachi! He cherished his lifelong relationships with his brothers, often recalling many activities, especially Spring Derby Days. He lived a life characterized by generosity, faith, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys that life offers.

Scott was a man of thoughtful words and actions. His faith-filled presence was a cornerstone of the Holy Rosary Parish community for nearly two decades. His dedication to the parish went beyond mere attendance; he was instrumental in keeping the community running smoothly, offering his time and talents without reservation. He was a true servant leader, whose quiet strength and unwavering commitment to his faith community will be deeply missed.

His interests were as varied as they were passionate. Scott found solace and joy in music, embracing the melodies and rhythms that filled his soul. He was an avid enthusiast of sound systems, always in pursuit of the perfect audio experience. This love of music was a constant companion throughout his life, providing comfort and inspiration in equal measure.

Scott was also an outdoorsman at heart. He spent countless hours on the golf course, relishing the challenge of each game and the camaraderie of fellow golfers. Fishing was another pursuit that allowed him to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of Washington’s beautiful waterways.

Perhaps one of the most endearing images of Scott was him cruising around with the top down in his red Volvo convertible. It was in these moments, with the wind in his hair and the sun on his face, that Scott truly lived in the moment, embracing the freedom and adventure that life on the open road offers.

Scott’s legacy is one of generosity and thoughtfulness. His actions spoke louder than words, and he will be remembered as a man who lived his values every day. The absence of his presence will be felt deeply by those who knew him, but the memory of his kindness, his faith, and his gentle spirit will continue to inspire and guide us.

As we bid farewell to Scott Clifford Stoefen, we celebrate a life well-lived, a life full of purpose and love. He may have departed from this world, but his impact will be felt for generations to come. Rest in peace, dear Scott, knowing that your journey was a beacon of light for all of us.

Scott’s funeral will be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 11 am, followed by a reception in the school gym. In lieu of flowers, Holy Rosary and friends kindly request that donations be made to the American Cancer Society, the Sigma Chi Foundation, or Holy Rosary Parish, in memory of Scott.

(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, ROAD WORK: Friday notes and morning incidents

November 15, 2024 6:02 am

| 3 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

9:41 AM: Westbound Fauntleroy is blocked at 42nd SW in Morgan Junction because of a crash reported as a driver hitting a pedestrian. No word yet on how seriously the person is hurt. Per radio exchanges, the crash was reported by the driver.

9:58 AM: Apparently the victim was not seriously hurt – SFD was canceled relatively quickly, and the street has reopened.

Earlier:

6:02 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Friday, November 15.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Partly sunny, chance of rain, high in the upper 40s. Today’s sunrise will be at 7:16 am, while sunset will be at 4:32 pm.

TRANSIT

Water Taxi today – Regular service.

Washington State Ferries today – 2-boat service on the Triangle Route with M/V Sealth as the “ghost boat.” Check here for last-minute changes.

Metro buses today – Regular schedule.

ROAD WORK

*The Admiral Way Bridge seismic project continues; the south half of the bridge is closed, with one lane each way on the north side. Fairmount Avenue remains closed under the bridge.

*The Delridge pedestrian-bridge earthquake-safety project also continues, with narrowing at Delridge/Oregon.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:

Spokane Street Viaduct – This view usually looks westward, with eastbound lanes at left and westbound lanes at right:

Low Bridge – Looking west:

1st Avenue South Bridge:

Delridge cameras: Besides the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.

MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here; West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras are on this WSB page.

If you see a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water, please text or call our hotline (when you can do that safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!

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SPORTS: West Seattle High School volleyball team headed for state

November 14, 2024 11:58 pm

| 1 COMMENT

| West Seattle news | West Seattle schools | WS & Sports

Story and photos by Tracy Burrows
Special to West Seattle Blog

Thursday night at the Highline High gym, the West Seattle High School volleyball team punched their ticket to this year’s state tournament, beating the Roosevelt Rough Riders 3-1 in the quarterfinals of the district tournament.

Despite having to play short-handed due to injuries and illness, West Seattle kept getting stronger as the match went on.

They dropped the first set by a score of 25-22, in a contest that featured long rallies and hard-fought points. Between sets, head coach Scott Behrbaum told the team to relax, play freely, and have fun. The Wildcats made small adjustments in their attack and defense and came back to win three straight sets, capping it off with a 25-11 victory in the final set.

An enthusiastic crowd of WSHS Wildcats supporters who traveled to Burien witnessed the team advance to the state tournament for the second year in a row. It’s a remarkable turnaround for a program that hadn’t previously qualified for the state tourney since the 1970s. They will be facing Bellevue in the semifinals of the district tournament at Lakeside School on Saturday at 9:00 am. The outcome of the rest of the district tournament matches will factor into the seeding for next week’s state tournament in Yakima.

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UPDATE: Rescue response for 4-car 26th/Roxbury crash

November 14, 2024 9:45 pm

| 14 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | WS breaking news

(Added: WSB photo)

9:45 PM: Police and fire are headed to 26th/Roxbury for what was initially reported as a four-vehicle crash, with one person possibly trapped, so it’s a “rescue extrication” dispatch. Fire dispatch says “one car is upside down on top of another.” Updates to come.

9:53 PM: The response is being downsized. Police told dispatch that this is on the county side of Roxbury. Nonetheless, it’s blocked in both directions right now. One driver is reported to have left the scene.

9:59 PM: A sheriff’s deputy popped onto the SPD frequency with an FYI that they had just had a robbery at Roxbury Safeway near the crash scene.

11:11 PM: SFD confirms no injuries were reported. We went to the scene for the photo added atop the story; if one car had been atop another, that situation had been corrected before we arrived.

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PREVIEW: See The Mount’s next time capsule at holiday bazaar

November 14, 2024 8:35 pm

| Comments Off on PREVIEW: See The Mount’s next time capsule at holiday bazaar

| West Seattle history | West Seattle news

(Photo courtesy The Mount – that’s the new time capsule to the left of the sign)

Reps from Nucor Steel visited The Mount (WSB sponsor) to celebrate the new time capsule that will be filled as part of 100th-anniversary festivities. The plant that houses Nucor has decades of history with The Mount – it supplied 1,000,000 pounds of steel for the original construction under general contractor A.W. Quist.

The design and build of the stainless-steel time capsule was led by Richard Crist. with help from melt shop and engineering teammates including Zac Reeves, Mark Hanson, and Andrew Lovre. The announcement from The Mount adds, “Contractor Argo Blower also contributed to the detail cuts of The Mount’s centennial logo mounted on the outside of the box.” You can see the contents of the original 1924 time capsule and admire the new one at The Mount’s holiday bazaar Friday and Saturday; you’re also invited to contribute ideas for what should be sealed inside the new one, for future generations to discover. (The Mount is at 4831 35th SW.)

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GIVING: Quail Park of West Seattle feeds firefighters

November 14, 2024 7:41 pm

| 4 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle people

Just by their nature, senior-living communities tend to see firefighters/paramedics often. But this encounter wasn’t an emergency, as explained by Quail Park of West Seattle (WSB sponsor):

In a show of appreciation for the tireless efforts of local first responders, Quail Park of West Seattle delivered a special lunch to the dedicated firefighters of Station 32 today. Residents and staff brought a hearty meal of brisket, ribs, and pulled pork from Jack’s BBQ in SoDo to thank the firehouse for their service to the community.

This gesture is a heartfelt thank-you to the team at Station 32, who have served Quail Park and the surrounding neighborhood over the years. The BBQ lunch was a small token of gratitude for the critical work they do to keep the area safe.

Station 32 is just east of The Junction, at 38th/Alaska.

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VIDEO: West Seattle Art Walk, November edition

November 14, 2024 5:39 pm

| 1 COMMENT

| West Seattle Art Walk | West Seattle news

5:39 PM: We’re making a couple West Seattle Art Walk stops tonight. First:

(WSB photos)

Jessica and Zac are proprietors of Space Gallery, a cozy, quirky, art-filled space on the Edmunds side of the 4801 Fauntleroy Way SW mixed-use building. (They use the term “lowbrow.”) Tonight they’re featuring ceramics – including the work of artist Dida Lopez:

The in-house art is worth a look too. Zac creates a lot of it – like these magnets ($10!):

Many other local artists’ work is showcased too (don’t miss the hot dogs, inspired by a show over the summer). Zac and Jessica both have day jobs; the gallery is their after-hours “passion project,” and it’s full of heart. Stop by until 8 tonight or 12-6 Saturdays. Off to our next stop- see the Art Walk website to choose your route (and wear your rain hat – it’s back after a few hours’ break)!

6:37 PM: At Alki Arts (6032 California SW), Dance! West Seattle is performing ballet – excerpts from their upcoming “Nutcracker Suites” production, December 22 at Highline Performing Arts Center:

One more mini-performance is ahead at 7 pm (you can buy tickets too). Meantime, Diane Venti‘s gallery is also featuring in-house and visiting artists tonight, spotlighting this month’s theme “Peaceful Homes”:

Open until 8-ish.

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PHOTOS: Another Southern Resident Killer Whales visit

November 14, 2024 3:51 pm

| 5 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | Whales

(Added: Photo by Robin Sinner)

3:51 PM: If you’re up for pre-sunset whale watching, Kersti Muul just texted to report that Southern Resident Killer Whales from J and K Pods are “northbound from just before the south end of Blake Island. Visible without binoculars.”

(WSB photo – some of the whale watchers at Emma Schmitz Memorial Overlook)

3:57 PM: Donna Sandstrom from The Whale Trail says she’s heading to Emma Schmitz Memorial Overlook (4500 block Beach Drive) for guided viewing.

(Added: Photo by Robin Sinner)

4:55 PM: We were lucky enough to see some of the whales, not close enough to photograph but via binoculars loaned by Donna. We watched one group continue northbound, passing Bainbridge as it got dark. They’re still chasing chum, apparently.

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FOLLOWUP: Determining Camp Long lodge’s future, post-fire

November 14, 2024 2:57 pm

| 31 COMMENTS

| West Seattle fires | West Seattle news | West Seattle parks

(Monday night photo by Kerry Antezana)

2:57 PM: Three days after a deliberately set fire gutted the historic lodge at Camp Long, Seattle Parks is still working to determine its future. Parks spokesperson Rachel Schulkin had told us they hoped to have more to say later in the week, so we checked back, also asking about the park’s status overall. Here’s the response:

Currently the department is assessing the damage of the main building at Camp Long. After this assessment we will be able to determine next steps.

The park continues to be closed but we hope to reopen it soon as soon as we can secure the building.

Programming is currently cancelled and we hope to resume in the coming week.

Parks said on Tuesday that damage from the fire is estimated at $1.2 million; two of the park’s rustic cabins were vandalized the same night. Investigators found shattered glass and blood droplets; no new information about the investigation so far.

The lodge went through a million-dollar renovation back in 2010.

ADDED 3:50 PM: We also followed up with District 1 Councilmember Rob Saka‘s office. Chief of staff Elaine Ikoma Ko tells WSB they’ve been talking to both SPD and Parks and “We let them know that we stand prepared to support next steps. So we are waiting and monitoring this closely.”

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POLITICS: Past candidate for King County Executive won’t try again even though it’s open

November 14, 2024 1:15 pm

| Comments Off on POLITICS: Past candidate for King County Executive won’t try again even though it’s open

| West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

Two days after Dow Constantine announced he doesn’t plan to run for re-election, after 15 years as King County Executive, the field of potential successors is still taking shape. We said we’d check with his most-recent challenger, another West Seattleite, State Senator Joe Nguyễn. We heard back from Nguyễn today and he told WSB that no, he’s not planning to run again. In 2021, he got 44 percent of the vote for County Executive; the next year, he won a second 4-year term in the State Senate, where his committee roles include vice chair of the budget-writing Ways and Means Committee. Nguyễn also told us that if County Councilmember Girmay Zahilay decides to run for County Executive, he’d support him. So far the highest profile candidate is a County Councilmember from the Eastside, Claudia Balducci, who’s also on the Sound Transit Board, which Constantine currently chairs.

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BIZNOTES: Three independent West Seattle businesses celebrate anniversaries

November 14, 2024 11:50 am

| Comments Off on BIZNOTES: Three independent West Seattle businesses celebrate anniversaries

| West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

Three independent West Seattle businesses are about to throw anniversary parties, and you’re invited:

CARMILIA’S: The boutique Carmilia’s is turning 22! 4-8 pm tonight, the party at 4528 California SW will feature “bubbles, nibbles, and fun,” discounts on new arrivals, gifts with purchases while they last, door-prize drawings, more.

AND ARLEN: Turning two! Just received from Miranda:

On Saturday, November 16th from 5-8 pm to celebrate our 2-year anniversary for our jewelry store And Arlen (4130 California Ave SW), we’ll have snacks, drinks, raffle prizes, and a gift with purchase.

OUNCES: Turning eight! The party at 3809 Delridge Way SW is one week from tonight:

Come celebrate 8 Years of Ounces! Every year, we love to use our Anniversary to say thank you to all the people who have come to Ounces over the years! This year we’re showing our thanks with FREE French Fries & $5 Beer!
Stop in anytime from 5-7 pm Thursday, November 21,for FREE French Fries from our new Burb’s Burger Box, All Beer just $5, and other fun surprises! As always, this event is FREE, Family Friendly & dogs welcome!

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UPDATE: Crash(es) on westbound West Seattle Bridge

November 14, 2024 10:42 am

| 27 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

(Photo from commenter)

10:42 AM: Emergency responders are headed toward what might be two separate crashes toward the end of the westbound West Seattle Bridge – one pickup truck reported to have hit a pole, another reported to have hit the median. If you’re headed this way, you might consider an alternate route, or exiting the bridge before you get to the last stretch.

10:45 AM: No injuries reported so far. But this may affect eastbound traffic too, which will have to be blocked off to reset the median barrier – an SDOT crew is being summoned for that.

11:18 AM: Currently “one lane blocked eastbound and one blocked westbound,” police have told dispatch. And eastbound will be fully closed eastbound shortly for the barrier reset.

11:40 AM: Fully open again both ways.

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Art Walk with music and dance, Southwest Stories goes grunge, ‘Ophelia’ opens, more for your West Seattle Thursday

November 14, 2024 9:49 am

| Comments Off on Art Walk with music and dance, Southwest Stories goes grunge, ‘Ophelia’ opens, more for your West Seattle Thursday

| West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

November’s second Thursday is here, and it’s West Seattle Art Walk night, featuring The Art of Music. First, here’s the list of who’s featuring art and/or food-and-drink specials tonight:

To browse the individual artists and venues you’ll find, check out this preview on the Art Walk website, spotlighting what’s happening tonight all over the peninsula. Also note there’s been a change in The Art of Music – no musician at The Beer Junction after all, but 6-7:45 pm, you’ll still find Nathan and Roz Duo at Soprano’s Antico Pizza & Pasta in the Admiral District, and Cyd Smith at Whisky West in Morgan Junction. Also:

BALLET DURING ART WALK: Dance! West Seattle is in the house at Alki Arts (6032 California SW) – details here.

CERAMICS SHOWCASE: Space Gallery (4801 Fauntleroy Way SW, enter off Edmunds) invites you to stop by and get acquainted while browsing their ceramic-art showcase tonight, 5-9 pm.

Here’s what else is happening tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: Shop fall plants at the center, open Thursdays-Saturdays 10 am-3 pm, north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus. Annuals, perennials, sun, shade, natives, edibles, ground covers … wide variety!

DUCKS IN A ROW: Death happens to everyone eventually, so why not get your ducks in a row for end-of-life decisions? 1 pm today , it’s the second in this series as West Seattle (Admiral) Library offers a series of presentations, today focusing on estate planning,

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

STRONG BODIES, STRONG BONES: 2:30 pm yoga class at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon).

HPCS FOOD-TRUCK VISIT: Every Thursday, 4-8 pm, Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) gets a food-truck visit. Tonight it’s The Original Philly’s.

VISCON CELLARS: The West Seattle winery’s cozy tasting room/wine bar is open 5-9 pm, while participating in tonight’s Art Walk (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor). Stop in for wine by the glass or bottle!

UNDER-21 OPEN MIC AT THE SKYLARK: Mode Music Studios’ monthly open mic, signups at 5 pm, music at 6 pm, optional theme this month “Delicious Ditties.” (3803 Delridge Way SW)

WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fauntleroy for a group walk in Lincoln Park, continuing into the fall and winter after all – details in our calendar listing.

WORDS, WRITERS, SOUTHWEST STORIES: Get the story behind the grunge-themed coloring book “Color Me, I’m Sick” in this online event presented by the Southwest Seattle Historical Society, featuring the book’s author Bradi Jones and historian Peder Nelson, 6 pm. Our calendar listing includes the link you can use to register to get attendance info.

WESTIES RUN CLUB: The 6 pm weekly run is now departing from Future Primitive on Alki (2536 Alki SW).

ONLINE MEETING ABOUT SCHOOL CLOSURES: Seattle Public Schools plans an online info-meeting about proposed school closures including West Seattle’s Sanislo Elementary, 6:30 pm – find connection info here.

TEEN’S PACIFIC COAST TRAIL TALE: 6:30 pm at High Point Library, hear Julia’s story:

Julia, a West Seattle teen, completed the PCT, Pacific Crest Trail, thru hike this past summer. The PCT travels from the border of Mexico to the border of Canada. The total elevation gain for the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is approximately 489,000 feet (149,000 meters)123. The PCT is 2,650 miles long and crosses over 57 major mountain passes. It is estimated that hiking the PCT involves climbing the equivalent of Mount Everest more than 16 times. Julia will talk about her experience of the hike, we will share her favorite trail snacks, tea and water, and view some of her photos from the hike. This is a program for all ages.

(3411 SW Raymond)

HIGHLAND PARK RUN CLUB: 6:30 pm, meet at Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) for a 3-mile run through the neighborhood. (Walking option, too!)

GRIEF-SUPPORT PEER GROUP: 6:30 pm with Listening to Grief, meeting at Counseling West Seattle (6957 California SW), preregistration required – info in our calendar listing.

GUIDED BREATHWORK JOURNEY: 6:30 pm in Morgan Junction, “explore your inner world through the transformative power of your breath” – register to get the location info.

LIVE AT EASY STREET: Gemini Affair live in-store at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW), 7 pm, free, all ages, celebrating their vinyl & CD release.

OPEN MIC: Singers of all genres are welcome tonight at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), 7 pm.

TRIVIA: 7 pm at Burger Planet (9614 14th SW).

‘OPHELIA’ AT WSHS: Opening night for the student production, 7:30 pm at the West Seattle High School theater (3000 California SW), details in our calendar listing.

DJ NIGHT: The weekend starts early at Revelry Room (4547 California SW), with DJ Jenn Green starting at 8:30 pm.

Planning an event that should be on our calendar and in our daily preview lists? Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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