The ‘prank’ that wasn’t so funny: Best of Hands Barrelhouse asking for help after theft left iconic cow damaged

| Crime | Sunrise Heights | West Seattle news

(WSB photo, May)

One month ago, we reassured you that the future Best of Hands Barrelhouse would be keeping the iconic cow atop its building at 35th and Webster, while warning that it might disappear for a while for some sprucing-up. Part of its absence was unplanned, the Best of Hands crew says – it was briefly cownapped last week and taken to Chief Sealth International High School as what they say was a “senior prank.” They got it back but not without complications, according to this open letter they sent us today:

While we appreciate a good senior prank as well as the next person, I’m reaching out to the community here because in the process of stealing the cow, the kids broke one of the legs. Those who were involved with the prank also scaled our brand new electrical install in order to get on the roof (we now need to inspect this for any damage they may have caused). As many in this community know, we have spent over a year and tens of thousands of dollars bringing the iconic building up to code so that it can house a new endeavor. The actions of these individuals is highly disappointing, as it shows a complete disrespect for personal property, private property, and the West Seattle community at large. To add insult to injury, we had just finished cleaning and re-painting the cow the Monday before she was stolen. We will now have to take hours out of our busy schedules to do so again.

We know people have information about who is responsible for the prank, and we are asking them to step forward so we can hold the pranksters to account for their actions. If nobody comes forward, we will be getting the police involved. As for what the consequences should be for damaging our property and our landlord’s property (Clearview Eye & Laser), we have discussed compensation for the broken leg (and anything else that may have been damaged) and community service. We understand that these students will be graduating on Thursday, and would like to have a resolution before then. If college-bound, I don’t think dodging this responsibility will look good to the schools these individuals have applied to/been accepted to, as in this day and age, many colleges will revoke acceptance based on poor 4th quarter performance and extenuating circumstances.

We thank you for your time and help.

Sincerely,
Best of Hands Barrelhouse
info@bestofhandsbarrelhouse.com

35steve June 17, 2018 (12:45 pm)

Pranksters? No, lawbreaking a-holes.

heartless June 17, 2018 (1:04 pm)

That’s some bull right there, but don’t have a cow.And good lord, don’t get the police involved. They have better things to do than deal with senior pranks.I might kick in some cash to make you whole again, but wouldn’t this sort of thing be covered by insurance anyway?

Mike June 17, 2018 (8:16 pm)

Property damage in this amount is possibly a felony. People need to start parenting better. These senior pranks might have just blocked their kid from getting into the college they hoped for. Your criminal record follows you through your life. Applying for jobs, criminal background checks can block you from landing a good job. There’s no reason the people harmed by this should pay a dime, the family of these pranksters will need to pay not only to fix the damage, but also see their insurance rates skyrocket. It’s all fun and games until you deal with people not willing to put up with your self righteous BS.
Serious? June 17, 2018 (8:30 pm)

It’s called accountability. The reason these kids think it is ok is because of people like you. Yes, these kids can step forward and the police will not get involved. Or they can remain quiet and there is likely video and they will be busted anyway but now by the cops. I have older kids and if they were involved in this “prank” and I found out they would Apologies and pay for damages. Good lesson to learn early, take accountability for your actions. What you think is a harmless prank is a serious amount of money and effort for others.
Dogmom1 June 19, 2018 (10:48 pm)

@heartlessobviously this is your kid. Teach your kid a lesson. Don’t be a douchbag! So uncool.

Joan June 17, 2018 (1:08 pm)

Don’t be so generous — that was not a “prank” it was vadalism and I encourage you to report it as such. Those kids shoul d pay for damaging the cow in my opinion.

WSB June 17, 2018 (1:20 pm)

The word ‘prank’ is a quote from the victims and that’s why it’s in quotation marks (the body of thr letter also is a direct quote).

NSAlki June 17, 2018 (1:18 pm)

I hope they have the miscreants on camera. Such a shame. Trespass and vandalism is criminal behavior, not a “prank.”

Now its a thread June 18, 2018 (8:19 pm)

A comment thread isn’t a comment thread until someone uses the word “miscreant”. Thank you, sir or ma’am.

Gene June 17, 2018 (1:49 pm)

Hey heartless- this was vandalism- nothing less. Make it right Sealth Seniors!

heartless June 17, 2018 (1:59 pm)

Hey gene-this was a prank-nothing more.

Threatening seniors with removing their chance to go to college is absurdly extreme.

How much do you think this business will actually have to foot (pardon the pun) regarding the cow leg (and, I guess, the cow being dirty?)?

I mean really, how much damage do you honestly think this prank caused?
- Thoughtless June 17, 2018 (3:18 pm)
  
  Are you offering to pay?
  - heartless June 17, 2018 (5:10 pm)
    
    Yep!
- JanS June 17, 2018 (3:34 pm)
  
  @heartless these are graduating seniors…time to grow up. You, too. They want to be taken seriously, and then they pull crap like this. Not cool. And you are discounting the time and hard work of the people who are trying to open a business… a small business…in the neighborhood. Disrespect all around. Obviously, they didn’t learn all the lessons they should have in school. And for you to dismiss any monetary loss or damage by the business is simply wrong. We’re not all made of money . Obviously, the business owners took this seriously.
  - heartless June 17, 2018 (5:12 pm)
    
    Despite attempts to the contrary your point seems to be rooted in money.
    
    You talk about monetary loss, and how we are not all made of money.Okay, then–how much money did this cost? Was it covered by insurance?
    
    How much can a fake cow leg possibly cost?!?
    - WSB June 17, 2018 (6:03 pm)
      
      Given that it’s not the sort of thing you can just go buy at the store … potentially more than you might think.
    - Morgan June 17, 2018 (6:31 pm)
      
      Gotcha- @heartless – so just put down your address and leave something of significance to you on your lawn- we’ll send some “pranksters” your way. Don’t worry you’ll end up recovering the item you cherish but it’ll be damaged. Not a big deal right- you probably have insurance after all.
    - Concerned June 17, 2018 (6:35 pm)
      
      Just drop the shovel and quit digging, heartless.The insurance question is ridiculous, because even with insurance, one will most likely spend hundreds of dollars, if not a thousand dollars or more for the deductible.
  - Serious? June 17, 2018 (8:34 pm)
    
    It also isn’t all about the money. These people have enough stress and are under enough pressure without this kind of childish stuff. Please tell me you are not a parent? This is the attitude I would be up against trying to teach my kids right from wrong if you are.
- WS Guy June 17, 2018 (5:17 pm)
  
  You’re awfully quick to spend other people’s money and time. Let me guess, are you a Sawant socialist?I think the owners are being generous by offering to settle it without getting the police involved, so long as the kids come forward.

dsa June 17, 2018 (2:42 pm)

Since when is taking another’s property vandalism? I call it theft.

JanS June 17, 2018 (3:28 pm)

and take into account the electrical damage this may have caused. Yes, the culprits should have to compensate. This will cost the owners, insurance or not, and set them back timewise , if there is electrical damage. Prank? That’s more than a prank…vandalism and theft. And disrespect for someone else’s hard work. Yes, I understand senior “Pranks”…do it with school stuff, with your own stuff, with a fellow students stuff, without harming a business in the community. For those who are just dismissing this, I suppose it’s the time we live in…get away with whatever you can, it’s “harmless”…until it happens to you. If you don’t speak up, if you look the other way, you think these kinds of things are OK. They’re not.

Mmarie June 17, 2018 (3:39 pm)

Of course it was wrong but many of the comments here are way over the top. The kids should apologize and make it right. Geez folks. Assume many of you are for putting teens in jail for something like this which is ridiculous!

Morgan June 17, 2018 (3:43 pm)

It’s hard enough opening a business– including renovating an older building to begin with. This wasn’t a harmless prank, and even if you have insurance cover it, there’s still the deductible to pay, plus the time lost in moving your construction progress forward. I think compensating for the damage and doing some community service is a fair trade. I’m guessing the cow is worth over $750, which in Washington State actually technically could be considered a felony theft. I think that would be extreme to prosecute it as a felony, but lets not just write this off as kids being kids (or very likely young adults over 18 in this case). Good luck to Best of Hands in the remaining pieces of their build out. Look forward to trying their beers!

Jim June 17, 2018 (4:32 pm)

I think it was very generous of the Best of Hands crew to offer these kids a chance to make it right before bringing in the police. Now let’s see if these graduating seniors are mature enough to take the offer.

newnative June 17, 2018 (4:32 pm)

As a parent of a graduating teen, I would be grateful for this merciful second chance if it were my kid.

Sandra Adams June 17, 2018 (4:53 pm)

We missed the cow when she was gone and were delighted that she was back on her roof! Seniors are soon-to-be adults and should have to atone for this “prank”. These owners were community minded and trying to lighten up their corner of the world. Definitely not cool.

EJ June 17, 2018 (5:24 pm)

This was obviously a very bad choice on the part of these kids and they deserve to be held accountable and to face the consequenes financially or otherwise. However, the tone at the end of the last paragraph in the letter may scare kids or witnesses away from being honest. I would have left this part out and expressed it later. I hope the kids come forward and pay for the repairs needed- and maybe even help repair/repaint the cow. One bad choice that was likely made with comedy and peer pressure as the initial catylist then went too far should be a hard lesson in real life but should not derail college or other plans in my opinion. How many second chances have we all been given? Come forward kids- it will suck now but will be so much better for your head, heart, and future plans.

Gina June 17, 2018 (5:27 pm)

Stick to putting Volkswagens in the gym, kids.

Virginia Michelsons June 17, 2018 (6:32 pm)

Cow store neighborI have enjoyed that cow for over 50 years and looked forward to having it back. I’m sure the high school kids know who did this vandalism. Just require the guilty to volunteer to put it right.Maybe in the future those guilty of vandalism could be required to spend hours cleaning up messes. They might think twice is there was a price to pay for their actions.

Joan E June 17, 2018 (6:57 pm)

If nothing had been damaged, it wouldn’t be that big of a deal. But, since there was damage to private property, and it was indeed stolen, that’s a more serious matter. I hope someone turns in the guilty kids. I doubt any will willingly confess.

Joe June 17, 2018 (7:37 pm)

This is not th first time Sealth seniors ‘napes this cow and that time also ended in damage to the cow. One of those seniors went on to college and came back to be principal of Chief Sealth. I’m 70 and as far as I’m concerned I ask where is the go fund me site. Senior pranks have never been thought out and never will. Stop being such tight butts. Where do i send my repair donation.

Melissa June 17, 2018 (8:44 pm)

Thanks for your response, Joe. Sure, they acted like jackasses, but truly, who of us didn’t at that age? I mean, I’m sure some of you were paragons of virtue, but I wasn’t. Let’s help the business owners & let’s make it easier for the kids to come forward.
CMT June 18, 2018 (11:51 am)

I definitely feel for the business owners and think the kids involved should be responsible for paying for (or working off the damage) but otherwise I agree with Joe.
Wild One June 19, 2018 (12:42 am)

Yeah I’m with Joe. I’ve heard of the cow being part of high school pranks in the decades past too. In fact it’s an old West Seattle tradition that made me happy to find out about the recent prank. Point me to the Go Fund Me site, let’s do our part to re-coup the cost, and give the kids a slap on the wrist. I understand it really is very annoying for the business owners. But now that gives me a reason to tell my wife that I need to buy more beers from them. Gotta help pay for our community cow!

M.B. June 17, 2018 (8:28 pm)

“To add insult to injury, we had just finished cleaning and re-painting the cow the Monday before she was stolen. We will now have to take hours out of our busy schedules to do so again.”That sounds like a perfect way for these “pranksters” to do some community service, if they come forward. Let them clean it and repaint it.As to those saying “that’s what insurance is for,” why should this business have to pay the deductible and, no doubt increased premiums from here on out due to having made a claim?These are not young children. They are young adults who are about to be of an age where they can vote and, within a few years drink (and potentially drink and drive). While they don’t need the book thrown at them if they come forward it’s time to learn lessons like “theft and vandalism aren’t pranks, they’re criminal acts” – because these are the kinds of “pranks” that can get you tossed out of college or that will cost them their jobs if they try them even a couple of years from now. Consequences for actions is how one learns and grows.

Gene June 17, 2018 (9:36 pm)

How about we ask the Sealth Seniors to make it right. This goes beyond a “ prank” thought out or not- not saying these kids won’t have a bright future because of this- – see Joe’s story above- now that they see the extent of damage the kids can fix this & we should expect them to. Don’t feel like I’m a tight butt for saying so either Joe.

Wsmom June 17, 2018 (10:49 pm)

How do you know it was the sealth seniors? How do you know it wasn’t another school playing the prank on them?
- Mmarie June 18, 2018 (10:26 am)
  
  Good point. How is it known what school the kids go to or are assumptions being made?

Question Authority June 17, 2018 (9:44 pm)

For those who think it was just a harmless prank consider this scenario. On your roof is an antique copper weathervane from your Grandfathers barn, this year it is sought as a graduation prank trophy and thus it begins. Trespassing on your private property, climbing up and damaging your lattice, siding and breaking your gutter free from the downspout, dropping the artifact to the ground and breaking it all the while stepping on and crushing your favorite roses. It’s just a prank gone wrong right? Holding those accountable is what causes them to pre consider being that stupid again, even if it changes their path in life they need to learn right from wrong.

Mmarie June 17, 2018 (10:48 pm)

Did a commentor say it was harmless? I think even the commentors urging they NOT be Jailed(!!!!) will agree there was harm and have suggested the kids come forward and make it right.

McFail June 18, 2018 (1:53 am)

Persuasive Essay 101 which should speak very clearly to the young adults. This falls under Malicious Mischief, but to what degree? Felony or misdemeanor? Are the people on here offering to pay restitution for the prank also willing to pay the fine of up to $5k, $10k or $20k if prosecuted? In general, this “it’s okay, they (business owners) can afford it” mentality needs to stop.

doitright June 18, 2018 (6:17 am)

I think the threat in the letter regarding colleges knowing and not accepting these kids are enough to not make some not come forward. The part about colleges could have been left out.That being said, the kids involved need to pay, do community service, etc., and learn a lesson. However, threatening their college acceptances after doing well for 13 years is not ok. These kids were not smart, at all, let them learn a lesson that does not affect the rest of their lives.

anonyme June 18, 2018 (6:32 am)

Accountability is what allows people to learn and grow up. Admitting to mistakes is an important step in that process. If you’re incapable of either, then go to jail; it’s where you’ll end up eventually anyway.

Suzanne June 18, 2018 (6:58 am)

Perhaps the PTSA or Alumni group at CSHS could pony up the money now and then handle it ‘in house’?

CanDo June 18, 2018 (7:24 am)

It’s extremely generous of the owners to let the culprits step forward and make this right without police involvement. C’mon kids. It was a stupid prank that caused damage to others. Now, make amends, repair your damage and compensate the owners for your maliciousness. It’s easy and will add character to your years ahead. Do the right thing and take responsibility.

Tony S June 18, 2018 (8:05 am)

The question is, is he a cow or a steer? I don’t recall seeing udders on her…

T Rex June 18, 2018 (8:24 am)

Back off the owners people, the letter was pretty nice considering the damage. They are small business owners trying to make a living and some kids set them back. The comment was just fine and dandy considering how angry they must have been. I was part of a senior prank and we got caught. Guess what? We had to clean up our mess and apologize IN PERSON to the people we did it too. We also got out asses handed to us by our coach which is exactly what we deserved. And let me tell you, it was one big mess. Now if any of these kids read this blog, I’m sure their parents do, they need to step up and admit to what they did and offer to help make it right. Guess what, you will get more respect for doing that than not doing anything. And you don’t have to rat on your buddies, do it for yourself.

Ant F. June 18, 2018 (8:26 am)

If these kids get involved with police or their college plans are impacted in any negative way I will never step foot in your establishment and will form judgement on the character of the owners.You have insurance for this reason and sometimes you just have to have perspective on things that do not include an eye for an eye attitude. Take the high road. I’m sure you’re frustrated now because opening is taking a lot longer and you are desperate to save every penny but when you have a successful business and you’re thriving, you just might see things differently. This will not be the last issue you have of this kind, unfortunately it comes with the territory. Best of luck to you.

doitright June 18, 2018 (9:09 am)

Thank you Ant F. You’re right. I’m doubtful a broken cow decoration will put them out of business. T. Rex yes, they are small business owners, again, a broken cow should not affect their business, if it does..well, I think that needs to be looked at.
miws June 18, 2018 (9:15 am)

Ummmm……I believe Best of Hands Barrelhouse has *already* taken the high road in contacting WSB to reach out to the community in the hopes that the “pranksters”, or someone who knows who they are, contact them to resolve the issue *without* getting the police involved, so as *not* to affect the “pranksters” college/job/rental housing future. BoHB could have much more easily contacted the police right away. Mike
Helpful June 18, 2018 (3:15 pm)

If “prankers” don’t come forward, how would you want the victims to resolve the situation without reporting to police? Even if they wanted insurance (all of us) to pay for it, they can’t make a claim without police report number. With deductible, there would likely be little benefit.

Rick June 18, 2018 (9:14 am)

Next year they can steal the Amazon glass domes.

Helpful June 18, 2018 (9:24 am)

[Then] “I cannot tell a lie- I chopped down the cherry tree.”Well- you’ve learned a lesson, and proven you are a man of courage, integrity, and honor. Now, go forth and lead your country![Present day, West Seattle]”I didn’t do nothing- I think Ethan took it.””I didn’t embezzle from the travel fund- I’d check Shirley.””I didn’t take that mail- I’m clean!”Well, we can’t hold you- you’re released on personal recognizance. See you next week!

Martin June 18, 2018 (9:52 am)

Withhold all diplomas till the guilty step forward. The school has a responsibility to be a good neighbor in the community and to uphold honorable student behavior. My high school would not have let this slide.

Mmarie June 18, 2018 (10:20 am)

Since when are schools a police state or responsible for what their students do off school grounds!?

Greystreet June 18, 2018 (9:54 am)

Ant, awesome that leaves more space for us to enjoy the establishment. All boils down to actions have consequences and if you aren’t mature enough to accept accountability when things go awry, then I guess these kids should have thought twice. The invincibility complex of teenagers ends when they get caught and realize “Oh *$^%, this could really come back to haunt me” … Looking forward to this spot opening up though!

KBear June 18, 2018 (9:59 am)

The owners of Best of Hands Barrelhouse shouldn’t be made to feel guilty that the students’ college admissions may be jeopardized. That’s between the guilty parties and their prospective schools. They don’t owe the perpetrators ANYTHING. Getting rejected from your preferred school doesn’t mean the rest of your life is ruined. It just means you may have to work harder to create other opportunities for yourself—and that seems like a fitting lesson here.

heartless June 18, 2018 (10:43 am)

KBEAR –

Let’s get down to brass tacks here:
Do you think that the kids involved in the cow prank shouldn’t be admitted to college?

It’s a really simple question, and I’d like you to answer it. The answer for me is easy — a stupid but non-malicious prank like this should never have that sort of life-altering repercussion.

What on earth would that accomplish? Oh, right, a “fitting lesson.” Yeah, it’d certainly teach them something about this community.

So for me, personally, I find it astoundingly inappropriate that someone would make that threat, and yes, I judge the Barrelhouse for that.

I have gotten a lot of flak for this stance, but I stand by it. To involve the police or threaten a college rejection is simply inappropriate. The prank was dumb, it wasn’t malicious, and I still maintain (unless someone can show me otherwise) that the damage cannot be that much.

Should the kids get in trouble? Absolutely! Should they pay or fix and clean the cow themselves? Obviously.

But should we try to get them rejected from college? Should we threaten them with criminal records? I can’t believe I have to say it, but I guess I do — No, we should not. That is a complete overreaction.
- Logic June 18, 2018 (12:34 pm)
  
  The business owner is giving the “pranksters”/vandals the opportunity to come forward and rectify the situation. If these pranksters do not take responsibility, the police will be brought in to investigate. If said investigation results in arrest the colleges the offenders may be headed to may revoke acceptance, this is not the business owners doing, this would be the college’s choice to revoke an acceptance to a criminal. Remember they are being given the opportunity to avoid a criminal record.
- KBear June 18, 2018 (1:04 pm)
  
  No, Heartless, I do NOT think that they shouldn’t be admitted to college. I never said that. But it’s not my decision, and it’s not up to Best of Hands Barrelhouse, either. If they really are college material, they’ll get in somewhere eventually. It might not be their first choice school, but bad choices come with consequences. What these kids did was not simply “a prank”. It was burglary and destruction of property. Those are real crimes, with actual victims. It is absolutely appropriate to involve the police. It was also very generous of Best of Hands to offer another way out. I hope they can resolve it and move on, but I find it ironic that people are always complaining here about a perceived increase in property crime, and how we should hold criminals responsible, but when it’s their darling kids—well, then it’s just a “non-malicious prank.” B.S.!
- Mike June 18, 2018 (11:35 pm)
  
  If they were 18 years of age when committing this crime, they should be treated as an adult and pay for their actions as an adult. If this is a ten year old, I might give them a pass for being completely stupid. There’s a reason it’s against the law to tresspass, damage property and steal. I only feel for the victims of these crimes. If they’re going to college, they’re old enough to understand right and wrong.

Martin June 18, 2018 (10:22 am)

Vandalism and theft are crimes. Putting some kid’s precious college plans ahead of upholding honorable behavior is a poor lesson to teach said, young person.

heartless June 18, 2018 (12:49 pm)

Martin.

You seem to think it’s important to teach young people lessons. I agree.

I agree so much that when I compare the potential lessons a college education can grant versus the one lesson that they might learn from having a community decide they shouldn’t go to college (or should be arrested(!))… I mean, you gotta know where I’m going with this, right?

I find it so strange that you and others keep talking about how these kids need to learn and grow up and then with straight faces say it’s okay to forfeit college over this. Don’t you see the problem with that?

If anyone is acting dishonorably I think it’s you.

There is honor in understanding. There is honor in compassion. There is honor in forgiveness. And there is honor in community — which is why I and other random community members have repeatedly offered to pay for whatever the hell it costs to hot-glue the damn cow leg back on.

On the other hand, there is no honor in threats. There is no honor in trying to stop a kid going to college over this. There is no honor in threatening to get the police involved.

And that is a lesson I hope you can understand.

MJ June 18, 2018 (10:28 am)

A senior prank gone awry. No one got hurt! Yes there was some monetary damage that simple restitution can solve. What is the BFD.

RCS June 18, 2018 (11:03 am)

We did senior pranks, too. But nothing that damaged property or injured people. We knew that if we did, there would be consequences. Brushing this off sends a loud message that kids can do whatever they want without consequence. Time to grow up.

WS Dad June 18, 2018 (11:13 am)

I think the owners of Best of Hands Barrelhouse have handled this just right. They are giving the kids the opportunity to step up and do what’s right, when they could have immediately gone to the police. I hope the kids follow suit and do the right thing. We all did senior pranks, but we’ve also all had to step up and face consequences when screw up. I applaud Best of Hands for the graciousness in allowing these kids their teachable moment.

WS Neighbor June 18, 2018 (11:47 am)

Wow my senior prank 8 years ago was washable paint on classroom windows. Pranks sure have evolved to criminal behavior since then!

PARENT June 18, 2018 (12:07 pm)

Just because it ended up at Sealth doesn’t necessarily mean the Sealth seniors were the ones responsible.. There are other seniors graduating from our community. Just sayin…

Monica June 18, 2018 (12:44 pm)

For many many years I’ve seen this cow twice a day-every day. I miss it! I’m hoping the owners will recognize how much this cow means to West Seattle and the Gatewood neighborhood and play on that. Looking forward to a special brew named for the missing cow or a cow with a broken leg on the drink coasters. The possibilities are endless!! P.S. These young adults need to be held accountable- period. Let the punishment fit the crime.

Get Off My Lawn! June 18, 2018 (1:09 pm)

Given the affinity you all seem to have for cows, I thought you might be interested in this: http://www.foxnews.com/food-drink/2018/06/18/chick-fil-giving-away-free-food-for-cow-appreciation-day.html

Tony S June 18, 2018 (1:31 pm)

Is she a Cow? Cow: A cow is a female animal that has had at least one calf. That would disqualify Bessie on the Roof (does she have a name)? Heifer: A heifer is a female animal that has never had a calf. Once a heifer has a calf, she automatically becomes a cow. So she could be a heifer, since she clearly hasn’t had a calf. Bull: A mature male animal that is used for breeding. I can’t see his “junk” from the road, so I don’t know, but “he” could be a bull. Steer: A steer is a male animal that has been neutered. So if he’s a boy, we need to have independent verification (for the record, I’m sure the kids who did this can verify his/her status. Answers, we need answers!

WSB June 18, 2018 (2:19 pm)

It’s been known as “the cow” for a long time, so that’s the word we use.

Nearby Neighbor June 18, 2018 (2:05 pm)

Graduation prank gone astray. Lack of judgment likely by some teenagers that does not rise to the level of banning anyone from their higher education. No doubt they were wronged, but their loss appears to be exaggerated by Best of Hands Barrelhouse.They are vague in describing and don’t show what was damaged while extrapolating the seriousness.How about some photos showing the damage?In particular is the electrical power pole which they claim they have not yet inspected? Why not, as that is the first thing they would see? I walked by and the only damage appeared to be dirty footprints on the panel top and at wall supports used to secure the conduits. The power is not yet hooked up, but due to their power needs, they have quite robust large diameter commercial rated conduits and heavy duty support brackets that provided an easy if not totally safe route to the roof. Damaging their property and their landlords property, who’s property is the cow? What other property was damaged?Was the cow’s leg removed completely, what was its damage?How dirty was the returned cow and how long does it take to wash it?And a Big Lebowski moment – what do they think SPD would do, put their top team of detectives on it around the clock?If Best of Hands provides an update with photos showing the damage I will be happy to rescind my criticism with an apology and out myself when they finally do open.

WSB June 18, 2018 (2:19 pm)

We’ve already asked for a photo of the damage; we ran over as soon as we got this on Sunday hoping they’d be there, but they weren’t. They promise one soon, plus info on the damage estimate.

Helpful June 18, 2018 (2:51 pm)

Why so critical of victim? They are not attempting to impact anyone’s future! Quite the opposite- they are offering to let it go for the low low price of doing the honorable thing and coming forward. (Thusly, apologetic jerks avoid all further messy consequences.) The letter may have been exaggerated to prod them along, but that is certainly understandable. Teach kids a lesson in accountability, and respect- they will be better for it.

T Rex June 18, 2018 (2:58 pm)

Senior pranks at my high school were always done to a rival across town, good point Parent!

WSMom June 18, 2018 (3:55 pm)

Exactly T Rex, that is why I asked the question earlier. Quite often senior pranks are rival high schools. I’m getting tired of people assuming it was Sealth seniors. It may very well have been but don’t just assume it was.
- AnotherWSmom June 18, 2018 (4:22 pm)
  
  As a parent of a Sealth senior, the rumor anongst the kids is that it was indeed another high school. Rumor is that once the kids realized the leg was broken they decided to leave it at Sealth instead of their own school. To the person that recommended withholding diplomas until someone comes forward, it wouldn’t do much good if your aren’t targeting the correct school.
  - Helpful June 18, 2018 (9:54 pm)
    
    If your “rumor” is worth anything, then your kids know who did it, or know someone who knows. So. Instead of deflecting, why don’t you solve this mystery and tell us WHO did it?
    - AnotherWSmom June 19, 2018 (8:55 am)
      
      Rumors are just that, rumors. Just kids talking. The kids at school (as far as my kids are aware) have not said any names, just that they heard it was another school. It’s not my job to investigate. Just wanted to point out that if people want heads to roll they need to be very sure they’re looking in the right direction. There have been comments suggesting that an entire senior class at one particular school should pay the price until someone comes forward. If the seniors Sealth weren’t actually involved, what purpose would that serve?
    - Helpful June 19, 2018 (9:40 am)
      
      I can hear it now..”Ha! Let’s steal this cow and take it to our own unnamed school! [climb cree-akk BOOM]Oh no- we’ve busted the leg- this looks bad…. Wait- lets just plant the broken cow at our arch rival school Sealth!? Brilliant! The entire Sealth senior class will be held responsible for out dastardly deed, and heads will roll. We’ll have to keep it on the DL- details of this scenario and our motivations (not including our identities) would spread quickly amongst the kids!! Muhuahajaha!!”

Just sayin! June 18, 2018 (4:13 pm)

Hey Best of hands Barrellhouse, Take advantage of this opportunity for free advertising. Please take a step back and realize a senior prank for what it is. This kind of event has been happening for decades in west seattle (directly involving the cow in question many times). These are our future leaders of America and most of the best leaders we have ever had have similar history. INVITE the public to come and patronize your establishment when you open and let it become a story now for your history. You will be rewarded many times over for taking this approach!…….JUST SAYIN!

jissy June 18, 2018 (4:17 pm)

Boy, it’s sure a good thing those silly high school pranksters didn’t fall off the roof, crack their heads wide open and hurt themselves in the execution of this “harmless”, innocent fun! Would THAT be covered by insurance? Best of Hands Insurance perhaps? For the stupidity of these seniors? Or maybe you’d like to pitch in and start the Go Fund me, heartless? This could have easily turned out to be ridiculously dangerous. Would the gang of pranksters hang around to help? Doubt it, but I sure bet someone’s parents would be eager to sue. Best of Hands heads on a platter by you sympathizers b/c they shamefully have such a sought after steal-able prank item.!!!

Todd June 18, 2018 (6:03 pm)

Wow. I guess I should expect this sort of thread. When we’re name-calling each other, trying to absolve some young adults for some property crime and even as far as threatening to boycott this yet-to-even-be-opened local West Seattle small business.I just don’t see this as a “prank”. A prank is letting the air out of some tires (not slashing the tires), it’s soaping (or using washable markers) to write “your school sucks” on classroom windows (not breaking the windows with a rock)…or at my alma mater – somehow they managed to stack a bunch of used tires over the school’s flagpole!Climbing up the side of an under-construction remodel (there has been roof repairs recently and that’s why the cow was down in the first place) of a business whose proprietors have been working extremely hard on to get open, trespass on the roof and take the cow – damaging it in the process is beyond prank in my opinion (but I’m not 18 anymore). Did they plan on putting it back? Do they even care? Did they take video of themselves doing it and post it on Instagram ( I bet they did!). As far as Best of Hands goes, not only have they taken into account how beloved the cow (steer, bull, whatever!) is and incorporated it into their business plans, but they’ve taken the extra steps of restoring it (which is way more care than it’s had in many, many years) for the exact reason of wanting to be a community business.Anyone who holds BofH in anyway responsible should take it upon themselves to find the culprits or accept the job of paying the deductible (assuming insurance DOES cover it) and repair any additional damage done in the process. Who do you call to re-lift a cow onto a roof, anyway? Is this the way we support small, local business? Tear them down before they’ve even got a chance to make the first dollar? Are you fine with people climbing up the side of your house and walking around on your roof?When we were in our teens, my friends played a “prank” on a neighbor…fill a garbage can partway full of water, lean it up against the front door and knock (and run away)…open door, flood the living room. Lots of laughs for my friends, but the neighbor wasn’t so thrilled with his ruined carpet and damaged floor. They got caught and had to work it off all summer. Own up to it, kids. Take your licks and tell the story 30 years down the line about how stupid you were when you were 18.

AnotherWSmom June 18, 2018 (7:10 pm)

Or do what “Just sayin!” suggested and take the high road, show grace, and reap the benefits of the free advertising and booming business by being admired by all. Seems to me like that direction would benefit the business the most. The only damage that we are all certain of is a broken cow leg. The other damages (as far as have been reported) are all perceived pending inspection.
- Mike June 18, 2018 (10:54 pm)
  
  Come clean or pay for the rest of your adult life. It’s really that simple.

TM June 18, 2018 (8:02 pm)

The cow is a West Seattle icon, an attractive target. Better than a “JB’s Big Boy. The cow is back, and a few scratches only add to the history. They are working very hard to make their business go and it’s a difficult job, with more details and hardships coming at them from all sides, they didn’t need another problem. Best of Hands brewery has to bare some teeth. I think Best of Hands have handled this perfectly and the ball is now in the pranksters court. West Seattle kids are good kids. Lets wait and see how this pans out.

2 Much Whine June 18, 2018 (9:44 pm)

So if the leg is broken does the cow have to be put down? Keep it on the roof broken leg and all. Sounds to me like a great reason to produce “broken leg brown ale” or “cow feels Pale because of his broken leg Ale.” Or put a cast on it and have everybody sign it on opening night before hoisting it back on the roof. Make it an annual event. Turn it into free advertising. . . . .it would be pretty funny to see a cow with a cast. Just trying to make lemonade.

newnative June 19, 2018 (2:08 pm)

Cows make milk, not lemonade.

anonyme June 19, 2018 (6:39 am)

First of all, we don’t know who did this, so can’t make assumptions about their college plans, including whether or not such plans exist. Even if we did, it doesn’t automatically follow that said college plans would be ruined if the student took responsibility for the vandalism. The speculations on a college career destroyed for a mere childish prank (which I don’t think it is) are pure hyperbole.

JanS June 19, 2018 (1:28 pm)

Responsibility…it’s a big word these days.We have a president who spends his life blaming someone else…no one holds him accountable. Local senario now…should we hold whoever did this accountable? Or should we let it slide? Responsibility? It was a joke, a prank. Now we’re into..probably another school…blaming someone else. As someone said, if they must make an insurance claim for damages, they need a police report/incidence #. That is not of the owners doing…it’s simply how it is. If they find who did it, and this goes on a record, that’s not the owner’s fault. That’s the kid’s fault. I find it ironic that we are holding thousands of children in cages/tents right now in this country…innocents all, and you all sit here arguing about these “pranksters”. I’m done. The arguments here are simply not worth it. Responsibility…where do they learn it? From this? From their community? From everyday life in this country? Examples…we have a whole hell of a lot of bad ones. Maybe that’s where they learn it. Privilege. Sad.

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