West Seattle, Washington
24 Thursday
(Google Maps Street View image, west side of 35th/Barton)
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
Above, you see the heart of what would be the Upper Fauntleroy “neighborhood center” as part of the proposed zoning changes just unveiled by the city.
The maps are part – but not the entirety – of the “comprehensive plan” (aka One Seattle Plan) updates that the city’s been working on for the past two years, part of a state-mandated process to update the plan once a decade. We got a preview at a City Hall media briefing this morning; the city says its proposed sheaf of changes would give Seattle the capacity for a total of 330,000 new housing units, far more than they envisioned when circulating the draft earlier this year. (Here’s the slide deck from today’s briefing.)
The proposed maps build on the draft maps circulated last spring, as reported here in March, when we first noted that the city intended to plan for increased business activity and housing density by designating “neighborhood centers” as well as making some changes in its existing “urban centers” (formerly known as “urban villages”). Back in March, the city’s early version of these changes showed six “neighborhood centers” for West Seattle. Now, the newly unveiled maps show (update: 7 out of the 30 total proposed citywide – OPCD tells us 3 were were “studied” but are not currently being proposed):
*Brandon Junction (centered on Delridge/Brandon)
*Fairmount (centered on California/Findlay)
*Holden (centered on 35th/Holden)
(UPDATE: Studied but not proposed) *Sylvan Junction (centered on Delridge/Orchard)
*Upper Fauntleroy (centered on 35th/Barton)
*High Point (centered on 35th/Morgan)
(UPDATE: Studied but not proposed) *Highland Park (centered on 9th/Trenton)
*Endolyne (centered on 45th/Wildwood)
*Delridge (centered on Delridge/Dakota)
(UPDATE: Studied but not proposed) *Alki (centered on 61st/Stevens)
(For now, check the online maps for exact boundaries and the attendant rezoning where applicable – we’ve requested a larger version of the map/list and will add it here when available. UPDATE: Here it is.)
The “neighborhood center” additions are only part of what you’ll find on the zoning maps. West Seattle’s four “urban centers” – Admiral, Alaska Junction, Morgan Junction, and Westwood/Highland Park – would, in most cases, expand (here again is the interactive site with the maps).
If you’re not in an urban center or neighborhood center, check your zoning anyway. Upzoning is proposed along major transit routes (Fauntleroy Way SW along the RapidRide C Line route past Lincoln Park, for example). And if you’re in a “neighborhood residential” zone (the new name given to “single-family” a few years back), and otherwise unchanged, you’ll be in an “urban neighborhood” area. Most formerly “single-family” parcels already have had the capacity for three units – a main house and two Accessory Dwelling Units – because of previous city changes, but now the State Legislature-passed HB 1110 requires capacity for four units on these parcels. If affordable housing is included, some might be eligible for six units, and/or four stories. And lots of parcels will become mixed-use in one specific way – any corner lot in an “urban neighborhood” zone would be eligible for a corner store.
Other changes include parking rules:
As a result of this, we learned, the Alki Parking Overlay – which requires a space and a half for every dwelling unit in that area – would be abolished (as would the only other “parking overlay” in the city, in the U District). General parking for residential units – aside from the frequent-transit zones where none would be required – would be one space for two units.
Lots more in the maps, and there’s more in what the city announced today. But for starters, you can browse for yourself, and make comments now – that’s why the maps are being made public, with other plan-updates to come. You can also attend an upcoming informational session. The West Seattle session is 5:30-7:30 pm Wednesday, November 6, at Madison MS (3429 45th SW) and the full list of citywide events (plus the online session) is on this flyer. All this ultimately goes to the City Council for consideration. (added) The official comment period, meantime, runs until December 20, so you have time for a close look. Also of note, as discussed in comments, the city plans to propose more upzoning in Urban Centers in a future “phase” of planning (see page 10 of the slide deck).
THURSDAY UPDATE: OPCD says three of the 10 “neighborhood centers” listed for West Seattle were studied but not proposed. We have labeled them as such above.
ADDED THURSDAY PM: Here also, provided by OPCD, is a District 1-specific map (see it in PDF here):
The report and photo were sent by Paul Beck:
The 100-year-old Kenney Tower Light has, once again, been turned on thanks to a dedicated employee at The Kenney, Ron Blasser.
Residents and neighbors tell us that it reminds them of their school days when, at the end of an afternoon of school and play, it was the signal for the neighborhood kids to go home for supper. Today, with new management, it is a signal that all is well at the Kenney and new residents are moving back into the community.
Restoration of the Kenney Tower Light was recently accomplished by Ron Blasser, Director of Facilities at the Kenney, and a West Seattle neighbor. Ron joined the Kenney staff in October of 2022, following a hiatus in his business, caused by the COVID epidemic, which left him with time on his hands. Hoping to be able to contribute to his West Seattle community, Ron was told by a friend that there was a Facilities Management job opening at the Kenney and suggested he apply. He did apply, was hired, and promised the community two years of employment. Immediately, residents began to experience a turn-around in the overall maintenance of the facility and the addressing of long neglected repairs.
Ron’s two-year commitment was completed on October 10 of this year and he plans to return his attention to caring for his business and family.Ron consistently provided outstanding service to Kenney residents. He used his knowledge and community connections to problem solve many issues that plagued the Kenney for years. His skills in electronics, plumbing and heating restored function in numerous parts of the physical plant. He took piles of worn-out appliances and other discarded building materials that were littering storage areas to be recycled. He used his management skills to train maintenance and custodial staff to learn new skills while enhancing their teamwork and loyalty to the Kenney. At the same time, Ron encouraged and supported residents to take on tasks such as beautification of public spaces, gardening, and night-time security. As a result, Kenney staff and residents have become a team working together to bring The Kenney back to its glory.
On October 1, 2024, the Kenney Resident Council honored Ron for his extraordinary two years of contributions to residents, staff, and the facility. He had inspired us all with his boundless energy, extraordinary skills, confidence, and genuine concern for others. He will be sorely missed, and we wish him happiness and success as he leaves us and approaches the next challenges in his life. The service that Ron provided to The Kenney will ensure everyone in the West Seattle community will see the Kenney Tower Light and know when it is time for dinner.
Paul Beck, MD
Chair, Kenney Independent-Living Resident Council
We’ve been reporting – most recently this summer – on other changes at The Kenney because of new management and receivership.
(SDOT photos)
After two and a half months of intermittent work by night and day, SDOT has announced this morning that the Spokane Street Viaduct resurfacing project – on the West Seattle Bridge extension between Highway 99 and I-5 – is officially complete.
SDOT spokesperson Ethan Bergerson summarizes, “Between July and October 2024, we repaired all of the damaged pavement on the deck’s surface, which was prone to potholes and ‘alligator skin’ cracking. Crews repaved the bridge deck with a synthetic polyester concrete to help ensure it remains in good condition over time. We also made drainage improvements and bridge deck repairs on the westbound lanes.” The project cost $7.5 million, much of that covered by grants, including federal money on which we reported in 2022. Most of the work was on the older eastbound side of the SSV.
(Crab spider, photographed at T-107 Park by Steve Bender)
Here’s what’s happening, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you can always look ahead, and where you’ll find even more events than we spotlight in the list):
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Meet at 47th/Fauntleroy at 10 am. Details in our calendar listing.
TODDLER READING TIME AT PAPER BOAT: 10:30 am at Paper Boat Booksellers (6040 California SW).
SOUTHWEST ARTIST SHOWCASE: The Southwest Library (9010 35th SW) is open noon to 8 pm, and you can visit any time to see what community artists are showing this year, until late October.
3 IMMUNE-BOOSTING TIPS – AND A RECIPE! Half an hour for your health – “3 Best Tips for Immune Support and Fire Cider Recipe” with Dr. Emily Lesnak from Neighborhood Naturopathic and Primary Care (WSB sponsor), 12:30 pm, online, free. Go here to get the link!
ALKI PLAYGROUND DESIGN COMMENT: 4-6 pm at Alki Beach Bathhouse (2701 Alki SW), stop in to see where design is at for the new playground between the new school and the playfield, and to offer your feedback.
HOMEWORK HELP: 4-5:45 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), volunteers can help K-12 students with their homework.
CITY COUNCIL BUDGET HEARING: 5 pm, as explained/previewed here. You can go to City Hall to testify or do it remotely.
HOW TO GET RAINWISE: Online meetup with contractors and others who can help you figure out how to get a subsidized raingarden or cistern if you’re eligible for the RainWise program, 5:30 pm – info in our calendar listing.
FIX-IT WORKSHOP: Fix it, don’t toss it! Weekly event, free (donations appreciated), 5:30-7:30 pm at West Seattle Tool Library (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center).
TRIVIA x 4: Four trivia options tonight: At 6 pm, Locust Cider (2820 Alki SW) offers trivia … Larry’s Tavern (3405 California SW) hosts Wednesday-night trivia starting at 7:30 pm … Quiz Night begins at 8 pm at Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW) … and at 8:30 pm, trivia with Phil T at Talarico’s (4718 California SW).
FREE NEW BALANCE DEMO GROUP RUN: All runners, all levels, are welcome to join the 6:15 pm weekly West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) group run, which has two extras tonight: New Balance shoe demos, and birthday celebrations, as explained in our calendar listing.
CENTENNIAL CHILI COOKOFF: 6:30 pm chili dinner raising money for Undue Medical Debt, in celebration of the 100-year partnership between Fauntleroy Church and YMCA (9140 California SW) – registration required to attend – go here.
LIVE MUSIC AT THE LOCOL: 6:30 pm. 21+. Rotating performer slate. (7902 35th SW)
MORGAN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION: 7 pm, online or in-person at Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation‘s lower-level community room – agenda, and attendance info, in our calendar listing.
MUSIC BINGO X 2: One night, two games! Play at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7 pm … At Three 9 Lounge (39th/Oregon), you can play MINGO music bingo, hosted by Mingo Maniac, at 7:30 pm Wednesdays.
KUNDALINI YOGA AND GONG BATH: 7 pm with Inner Alchemy at Move2Center (3618 SW Alaska), $35; ticket link is in our calendar listing.
SKYLARK OPEN MIC: The spotlight is yours! 7:30 pm signups for West Seattle’s longest-running open mic. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
Planning an open house, reading, tour, fundraiser, sale, discussion, show, meeting, presentation, etc., that’s open to the community? Please send us info so we can add it to West Seattle’s only comprehensive event calendar! westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
That’s the trailer for “Stories of Us,” a documentary about people at West Seattle’s only tiny-home village, Camp Second Chance, and it’s the first film up for the relaunch of the quarterly West Seattle Meaningful Movies gatherings. The screening is set for this Saturday – here’s what the group wants you to know:
Meaningful Movies West Seattle has our new home and things are back in action.
The first movie since COVID will be an informational movie and discussion about the life for our unhoused community. The name of the movie is: STORIES OF US: CAMP SECOND CHANCE. Date and time: Saturday, October 19 at 6:30 pm. Location: Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 7141 California Ave. SW. There is no cost; however, donations are appreciated to help support the program.
Join us in person for this important film about our local unhoused community. In this powerful award-winning film, director Melinda Raebyne embeds herself one winter at West Seattle’s only tiny-house village, Camp Second Chance, challenging public ignorance and humanizing a population that locals would rather neglect, sharing with you some of their personal stories and her actual experience of what it’s like to be homeless.
The filmmaker will be at the Meaningful Movies screening for Q&A afterward.
6:03 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Wednesday, October 16th.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
Periods of rain, maybe an evening thunderstorm, high in the upper 50s. Today’s sunrise will be at 7:30 am, while sunset will be at 6:18 pm.
(Photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)
ROAD WORK
*The Admiral Way Bridge seismic project continues; the north half of the bridge remains closed, with one lane each way on the south side, until the project switches sides, which SDOT now expects will happen around October 28th. Fairmount Avenue remains closed under the bridge.
*The Delridge pedestrian-bridge earthquake-safety project also continues, with narrowing at Delridge/Oregon.
*The south Beach Drive gas-pipeline project continues; we noted work Tuesday in the 6000-6300 blocks, with flaggers helping alternate directions through a one-lane stretch.
TRANSIT
Washington State Ferries today – 2 boats on the Triangle Route, plus the “unscheduled third boat” is back after a brief detour Tuesday. Check for alerts here.
Metro buses today – Regular schedule.
Water Taxi today – Regular schedule.
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!
(Graphic from seattle.gov)
Tomorrow night brings the first of two City Council public hearings devoted entirely to the budget proposal for the next two years. (Read it in its entirety, or department by department, as linked here.) You can speak to the council either in person at City Hall or remotely. The hearing starts at 5 pm. If you’re going to City Hall, child care is available starting at 4:30 pm (RSVP via email, leg_operations@seattle.gov). That’s also when signups start for the commenter list. At City Hall, the signup sheet is inside Council Chambers upstairs; remotely, follow these instructions.
We reported some West Seattle-specific budget points in this late-September story. One additional point of note: SDOT‘s budget proposal includes speeding-ticket cameras for 19 more school zones around the city, and while the locations aren’t listed in the budget document, SDOT has released the list. Two of the new camera zones are in our area – West Seattle High School and Alki Elementary. SDOT says the new cameras around the city would “be implemented in two phases in 2025” – WSHS is in Phase 1, and Alki Elementary (which is being rebuilt and expanded, opening in fall 2026) is in Phase 2. The camera zone for WSHS is described as California SW between SW Hanford and SW Stevens; the camera zone for Alki is described as SW Admiral Way between 60th SW and 57th SW. The budget item actually is for revenue rather than spending – the document says funding for camera installation is already in this year’s budget; projected ticketrevenue is more than $4 million next year, $10 million the year after that.
West Seattle already has five school zones with camera enforcement – Delridge Way for Boren STEM K-8, Fauntleroy Way for Gatewood Elementary and for Fairmount Park Elementary, 35th SW for Our Lady of Guadalupe, SW Roxbury for Holy Family.
Back to Wednesday’s budget hearing – you can comment on a specific item or a general issue/concern, up to you. The second hearing is November 12th, but by that point, the council is just a week away from key almost-final votes, so you have more potential impact now. You can also send email comments any time, as explained here.
Late today, the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office announced initial charges filed against two of the teenage suspects arrested last week in connection with what investigators said was a prolific robbery rampage. The one adult suspect, 18-year-old John Bailey-Johnson of Renton, is charged with robbery, motor-vehicle theft, and unlawful gun possession. The first two charges are in relation to the Bellevue carjacking that preceded the arrests; the third charge is because he’s a convicted felon and can’t legally have a gun. (The one police say they found had been stolen from Kent, and they say Bailey-Johnson was trying to bury it while hiding from police during a search/foot pursuit in Auburn.) Here’s what’s described as his “arrest photo,” from the charging documents:
He is now jailed in lieu of $350,000 bail – higher than the $100,000 initially set last week – and is due in court for arraignment on October 28. The other suspect charged is a 16-year-old, against whom the KCPAO filed two counts of first-degree robbery and one count of unlawful gun possession (because he’s underage). The charges against him stem primarily from a Circle K holdup east of downtown Seattle on October 4. He remains in secure juvenile detention pending his arraignment hearing, set for tomorrow. Prosecutors stress that these charges resulted from what were just the first cases referred to them by police. Here’s more info and context from KCPAO spokesperson Casey McNerthney:
As noted last Friday, in large investigations it is not uncommon for police to refer some cases initially, and then they may refer additional cases later. Prosecutors can make charging decisions on the individual cases if/when prosecutors receive them. It takes significant time for police investigators to work cases and to meet the statewide legal requirements for admissible evidence. Police can refer cases and King County prosecutors can make charging decisions anytime within the statute of limitations. If additional cases are referred to our office, King County prosecutors will address the cases with urgency and review each case individually.
What about the others arrested? McNerthney recaps Friday’s details about a 15-year-old suspect:
There was a 15-year-old arrested last week on a warrant for a previous case that he is on supervision for. In August 2024, that teen was sentenced through traditional prosecution for Taking a Motor Vehicle Without Permission in the Second Degree and Robbery in the Second Degree and was granted a suspended disposition alternative by the Court, as authorized by law. When the 15-year-old did not follow his court-ordered terms, King County prosecutors made a motion for a bench warrant on August 22, 2024. The 15-year-old was arrested Thursday on that warrant. At an Oct. 11 hearing, King County prosecutors asked for the Court to hold him in custody, and the Court held him in custody after hearing from both sides. (There is not a bail amount set in juvenile court – it’s either in or out of custody) The next hearing in that case is 10/23 at the Clark Child and Family Justice Center.
Investigators said they had identified another juvenile suspect, but McNerthney says no case for that suspect has been referred, yet. We also don’t yet have any additional information about the locations of all the robberies to which investigators think these suspects might be linked – just the map from Friday’s story showing three incident locations in West Seattle, one of which we know was the September 30th Highland Park 7-11 robbery attempt with gunfire.
(WSB photo, cake-contest entries, last Sunday)
In our previous preview of the Fauntleroy Fall Festival, we noted we were awaiting details of how to participate in this year’s cake-decorating contest. We have them now, in case you’re interested in baking/decorating. Just bring your entry to the Fellowship Hall at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW) on festival day – Sunday, October 20 – by 1 pm, no advance registration necessary. All ages welcome; there are three categories for entries – beginning, intermediate, advanced. All entries will be considered donations for the “cake trot” that follows – but first, festivalgoers will get to vote, 2 pm to 3 pm, with winners announced at 3:15 pm, and the cake trot starting at 3:30 pm, running until they’re out of cakes! (The festival itself runs 2-5 pm Sunday.)
(WSB photo from October 2023 Trick or Trees)
Every year, the weekend before Halloween is so full of seasonal activities, we’ve nicknamed it Hallo-weekend. This year that’ll be Saturday and Sunday, October 26-27. And we just got word of yet another event – the King County Wastewater Treatment Division sent word of this year’s Trick or Trees tree giveaway in Highland Park:
We are teaming up with the Dirt Corps, Duwamish Valley Youth Corps, and Highland Park Improvement Club to host our third annual tree giveaway to support community goals around neighborhood greening. Join us at one of our upcoming events in Highland Park and South Park to pick up a free native tree and learn about King County’s efforts to reduce pollution into the Duwamish River. Trees are available for community members and organizations based in South Park and Highland Park, on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. No registration is required.
Trick or Trees
When: Saturday, October 26, from noon to 4 p.m.
Where: Highland Park Corner Store, 7789 Highland Park Way SWThe event will include free trees, treats, and a Halloween costume contest for pets.
Find out more about Trick or Trees on the HPCS website.
ORIGINAL TUESDAY REPORT: Several readers asked how West Seattle’s Junction True Value store would be affected by national news about True Value’s Chapter 11 filing and sale. Short answer: Not much if at all, store management told us – Junction True Value is a locally owned, independent store, like 4,500 other stores carrying the True Value name. The True Value company involved in the filing and sale has just basically been one of the store’s vendors; until about seven years ago, we’re told, it was basically a buying cooperative. (The co-op was explained when we reported on Junction True Value’s long history in 2013, as the store celebrated its 60th anniversary.)
WEDNESDAY UPDATE: As commenter Lance notes, the store has announced it’s affiliating with Ace Hardware. From its website:
Exciting News! We’re switching to Ace Hardware!
After 70 amazing years of serving West Seattle with True Value Hardware, we’re thrilled to announce that we’re officially switching to Ace Hardware!
Don’t worry, it’s not just a new name – it’s the same great people, the same friendly service you’ve always loved. We’re still your go-to spot for all your hardware needs, from DIY projects to home repairs and garden goodies.
We’re excited about this change and can’t wait to see what the next 70 years hold. The transition will take a little time but we hope you’ll come on in and check out our new look!
See you soon,
Bruce Davis, Brian Coulston and the Junction Hardware family
Emily emailed us about her car, stolen in North Admiral:
Gray/silver Kia Sportage, 2017
License plate # CHT 1360
Police report: 24-292722
Please call 911 if you find it.
(WSB photo, Fauntleroy dock last Sunday)
12:45 PM: Washington State Ferries has lost a boat to at least a week of repairs – and though that boat wasn’t on the Triangle Route, that route is still caught up in the resulting shuffle. The boat that’s out of service is one of the system’s biggest vessels, M/V Tacoma, which has been on the Bainbridge Island route, and WSF says it’s out for at least a week “due to a serious mechanical issue that was discovered last night.” So the same-size M/V Puyallup is moving to Bainbridge. Here’s where the Triangle Route effects come in: M/V Salish, which has been the unscheduled third boat (nicknamed “ghost boat”) on Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth, will move to Edmonds/Kingston to replace Puyallup, so the route serving our dock will only have the regular two boats TFN. (Vessel Watch shows Salish northbound right now in fact, just past Alki Point.)
3:10 PM: Just in from WSF – the expected weeklong repairs of M/V Tacoma took only hours, and the Salish will be back as the unscheduled Triangle Route boat tomorrow.
(Added: Reader photo, posted by Mia in comments)
11:14 AM: SFD has a full response going to what’s described as an attic fire in the 8400 block of 13th SW [near Cloverdale]. First arriving crews report “flames from the roof.”
(WSB photos from here down)
11:22 AM: Everyone inside is reported to have gotten out OK. Firefighters say they’re “making progress on the fire.”
11:28 AM: Firefighters report the fire is under control.
11:40 AM: Our crew at the scene reports it’s now “tapped” (out). SFD confirms no injuries; their investigator is on the way.
WEDNESDAY UPDATE: SFD spokesperson Kaila Lafferty says, “The cause of the fire in the 8500 block of 13th Ave SW was ruled accidental, started as a food-on-stove fire that spread through the kitchen and into the attic of the home.”
(Added: SFD photo)
(Elliott Bay through turning trees, photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)
Here’s our list of what’s happening in the hours ahead, mostly from our Event Calendar, where you can get a preview days, weeks, even months ahead
SOUTHWEST ARTIST SHOWCASE: Southwest Library (9010 35th SW) is open noon-8 pm today – drop in any time to see what’s on display for this year’s Southwest Artist Showcase.
POSTCARDS4DEMOCRACY: Long-distance advocacy via handwritten postcards to be sent to voters in other states, with just three weeks to go until Election Day – drop in 10:30 am-noon at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), all welcome.
ROTARY CLUB OF WEST SEATTLE: Lunch meeting at noon at West Seattle Golf Course (4470 35th SW), Program: “Kim Bogucki and Felisa Bryant of the IF Project that assists prisoners writing projects to help change their lives and reduce the cycle of recidivism.”
CHESS CLUB: Tuesdays 1:30-3 pm, at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon). All levels welcome. (Questions? Email conwell@conwelld.net.)
DINE OUT FOR WSHS FOOTBALL: 4-8 pm at West Wings (2329 California SW), both in-person and online orders count toward this fundraiser for West Seattle HS Football.
DROP-IN WINE TASTING: 5-7 pm Tuesdays at Walter’s Wine Shop (4811 California SW) – $10 fee, $5 off with bottle purchases.
DEMONSTRATION FOR BLACK LIVES: Long-running weekly sign-waving demonstration on the corners at 16th/Holden. 5-6 pm. Signs available if you don’t bring your own.
SCRABBLE NIGHT: 6-10 pm tonight, play Scrabble at The Missing Piece (9456 35th SW).
FREE TRACK RUN: All runners welcome! Meet at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) for this free weekly run at 6:15 pm.
OPEN CHOIR REHEARSAL: As previewed here, the Boeing Employees Choir (which is actually open to all) is having an open rehearsal at 6:30 pm at American Legion Post 160 (3618 SW Alaska).
TOASTMASTERS 832: Join this online meeting, 6:30 pm, to work on your leadership and speaking skills.
MAKE POTTERY: Weekly 6:30-9 pm “girls’ night” at pottery studio The Clay Cauldron (5214 Delridge Way SW), sign up in advance to work on your project(s).
BINGO AT THE SKYLARK: Play – free! Tuesday nights bring Belle of the Balls Bingo hosted by Cookie Couture, 7 pm. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
TRIVIA X 4: Four trivia options for Tuesday – The Beer Junction (4711 California SW) has Sporcle Pub Quiz with David at 7 and 8 pm … 7 pm at Ounces (3803 Delridge Way SW), free and hosted by Beat the Geek Trivia; 7 pm at Zeeks Pizza West Seattle (6459 California SW), hosted by Geeks Who Drink; 7:10 pm at Admiral Pub (2306 California SW).
HIGH-SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL: One 7 pm home match – West Seattle HS vs. Ballard. (3000 California SW)
NEW TRAINING PROGRAM FOR TEEN ATHLETES: Open house tonight, 7:30 pm, at Seattle Strength and Performance (2942 SW Avalon Way; WSB sponsor):
We are so excited to announce the launch of our Youth Athletics program at SSP West Seattle. Our programs include mobility, power, speed/agility, strength, and conditioning training to help our athletes in every aspect of sports. These skills improve performance in team and individual sports, and how we train at SSP builds comfort in an athletic weight room environment so our athletes are prepared and ready for the next level and for a lifetime of healthy habits! We’re kicking things off with an Open House on Tuesday, October 15th, at 7:30 p.m. This is a chance for parents and athletes alike to learn more about our program, meet our coaches, see the facility, ask questions, and sign up for our special founding-member trial offer! For the time being, we are kicking off our program by welcoming our athletes 13 and older.
RSVP here if you’re going.
WEST SEATTLE PFLAG: Monthly meeting at Admiral Church (4320 SW Hill), 7:30 pm.
Planning an event? Tell your West Seattle neighbors via our event calendar – just email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
Friends and family are remembering David Kappel and sharing this remembrance with his community:
David William Kappel died on October 4 at the age of 65. He was much too young to die. He had suffered a massive stroke about a week before, and was also dealing with muscular dystrophy and complications of diabetes.
Before being hospitalized, Dave had lived in West Seattle for more than 30 years and especially loved Lincoln Park.
David was born in Detroit and raised in suburban Oak Park. He graduated from Michigan State University and was a lifelong fan of Michigan State sports. One of his most thrilling memories was attending MSU Spartans basketball games when soon-to-be superstar Magic Johnson was playing.
Dave also had a lifelong love of animals. As a child, he rescued an injured baby robin, whom he named Peter, and nursed him back to health. He said he was almost sure Peter revisited him each spring for several years. He also was best friends withh his family’s lively, rambunctious dog, Snoopy. As an adult, he adored his smart, affectionate conure parrots: Pickle, Verdi, and Danny. The first two passed away, but Danny is thriving and is right by my side. As Dave was taken away to the ambulance, he asked about Danny.
I had the pleasure of visiting numerous national parks with Dave – Yellowstone, Mt. Rainier, Grand Tetons, Olympic, Redwood, and many others. Another highlight was driving up the California coast, including Big Sur.
Astronomy was another favorite pastime. Despite the light pollution in Seattle, he was able to point out many constellations and spotted dozens of meteors over the years.
We appreciate the care he received at Swedish Hospital.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a small donation to the American Bird Conservancy, World Parrot Trust, BirdLife International, Earthjustice, or any related animal/environmental organization. More importantly, please vote. That would be his final wish.
(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)
6:02 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Tuesday, October 15th.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
Rain expected, high in the upper 50s. Today’s sunrise will be at 7:29 am, while sunset will be at 6:19 pm.
ROAD WORK
*The Admiral Way Bridge seismic project continues; the north half of the bridge remains closed, with one lane each way on the south side, until the project switches sides, which SDOT now expects will happen around October 28th. Fairmount Avenue remains closed under the bridge.
*The Delridge pedestrian-bridge earthquake-safety project also continues, with narrowing at Delridge/Oregon.
*The south Beach Drive gas-pipeline project continues.
TRANSIT
Washington State Ferries today – 2 boats on the Triangle Route, plus the “unscheduled third boat.” Check for alerts here.
Metro buses today – Regular schedule.
Water Taxi today – Regular schedule.
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!
(WSB photos by Patrick Sand. Above, WSHS #6, junior Jas Daily)
The big high-school sports excitement on the peninsula this fall is on the court, not the field. West Seattle High School‘s volleyball team is leading the Metro League. Chief Sealth International High School is right behind them. The two met tonight for the first time this season, at the WSHS gym. Big draw on both sides:
The Wildcats took the match in three straight sets.
(Above, WSHS #2, senior Sadie Miller)
(Above, CSIHS #8, senior Allison Ohta)
Scores were 25-12, 25-11, and, with the Seahawks trying to rally for a comeback, 25-18.
(Above, CSIHS #2, senior Charlotte Lindow)
(Above, WSHS #5, sophomore Zoe Hanson)
Also seen on the court – dinosaurs:
No, it’s not early Halloween; WSHS has launched student dino racing at home matches, to win free pizza. WSHS (9-0), led by head coach Scott Behrbaum, plays again at home tomorrow night (Tuesday, October 15), vs. Ballard; Chief Sealth (12-2), led by head coach Lorraine Toilolo, is on the road tomorrow, at Seattle Academy, also at 7 pm,
This week brings several community meetings of note – including the Morgan Community Association‘s quarterly gathering, 7 pm Wednesday (October 16), in person at the Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation‘s lower-level community room (7141 California SW) or online.
This meeting is always wall-to-wall with important community info, so if you’re interested in Morgan Junction (and often lower Gatewood) matters, be there. The agenda says discussion topics will include what’s next for the Morgan Junction Park expansion, where contaminated dirt was recently dug up, and plans to add an “all-wheel area” to the park (here’s our most-recent update). Traffic safety, police updates, and a new business will get some time too, as will the race for City Council citywide Position 8 beteen Tanya Woo and Alexis Mercedes Rinck. All are welcome, no RSVP or membership required – just show up or click in!
As we continue spotlighting West Seattle Halloween decorations, here’s a haunt to see day or night!
Thanks to the texter who sent day and night views of that house on SW Andover just west of 42nd SW. Want to show us yours (or a display you’ve admired)? westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you! (See what we’ve published already by scrolling through our Halloween-coverage archive here.)
(WSB file photo)
Thanksgiving is still six and a half weeks away, but yes, we’re ready to talk (a bit) about the holidays – with seasonal calendar listings starting to come in. One that might interest you for early planning: The Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship is making only two West Seattle visits this year, both on the same night – its first night of the year, Saturday, November 23. On that night, the Pacific Sound Chorus will be on board to serenade both passengers on the ship and spectators onshore. The Christmas Ship will visit Don Armeni Boat Ramp (1222 Harbor SW) 5:35-5:55 pm that night, and Alki Beach Park (2665 Alki SW), 8:35-8:55 pm. Weather permitting, a bonfire is planned at Alki, with Seattle Parks.
“The show must go on!” That’s the timeless motto for performers – even when they’re faced with adversity such as lack of resources – but they’re never without hope. The theater program at Chief Sealth International High School will get to ensure shows keep going on, if you lend a hand – by attending the upcoming benefit screening the award-winning film featured in the trailer above, “Call Me Dancer.” In case you haven’t already seen this in the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, here’s the announcement:
Friday evening, October 25th, at the Chief Sealth International High School Performing Arts Center: ‘Call Me Dancer’ is truly an amazing film, and anyone who wants some inspiration and lifting up will adore it.
A truly great film is always interesting in itself, but soars above the subject matter as well — to astound and
inspire, to draw out strong emotions from the viewer and, ultimately, to make us look at our own lives in a
different way. The true-life adventure Call Me Dancer does all of this and more, winning it prizes and accolades
all over the world. It soars and twirls and summersaults and inspires, while telling the story of Manish Chauhan, a young Indian street dancer pursuing his unlikely but burning passion to become a ballet dancer. Shot in India, UK, Israel and the US, we get to experience Manish’s incredible charisma and talent, as well as his wonderful family and some of the extraordinary people who help change his life. The film is directed by Leslie Shampaine and Pip Gilmore, and features music from legendary singer/songwriter Jay Sean and hip-hop artist/rapper Anik Khan, with a sublime score by Nainita Desai and Nina Humphreys.The non-profit BAYFEST Youth Theatre runs the drama and performing arts program at Sealth, but we have recently suffered an almost total funding cut from Seattle Public Schools, due to their current huge budget crisis (and of course the arts seem always to be one of the first things to go…) But the Show Must Go On, and we have gotten exclusive rights to hold a screening of the film Call Me Dancer, which has won awards all over the world in the past year, as a fundraiser for the program, which we are very excited about. Besides being VERY anxious to sell as many tickets as we can to raise program funds, this is a rare opportunity for people to see this wonderful and inspirational film.
Some tickets might be available at the door, but the price is lower in advance; a share of the proceeds also will benefit West Seattle Performing Arts. The film is just under an hour and a half, in English and (subtitled) Hindi. The screening will be followed by an audience Q&A.
(Photos courtesy Aimee Owenz)
After Tony’s Market announced its impending closure in August, we learned a food truck with Cuban sandwiches was on the way to its lot, which already hosts a Mexican-food truck. The sandwich truck’s owner then turned up in a comment thread on another food story, and promised to update us when she was ready to open. Now, after soft-opening last weekend, the Aimee Owenz truck will officially open tomorrow. Proprietor Jenn tells WSB, “We are tentatively planning to be open Tuesday through Saturday 11 am-7 pm. We are working on our website and will be adding DoorDash too.” In the meantime, here’s the menu. And here’s a photo of their Cuban sandwich:
The Aimee Owenz truck is on the east side of the lot at 35th/Barton.
P.S. We asked Jenn about the truck’s name: “It’s mine and my brother’s middle names and while we were waiting for the city approval for our truck, our mom unexpectedly passed away. We feel even more proud to honor her. She liked the way Aimee was spelled and Owenz is a family name, so in a serendipitous way she named it.”
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