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    BRIDGE BRIEFING TODAY: Hear from contractor

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    NEW ON ALKI: Restaurant on the way

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    WS HOLIDAY GUIDE: Lights, Santa, shopping…

Earthquake readiness beyond your disaster kit, and what else District 1 Community Network heard about this month
December 8, 2021 11:07 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   Neighborhoods | West Seattle news

By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor

Another Northwest earthquake swarm – this time off the Oregon coast – is the latest reminder that we live in a seismically active area.

You hear a lot about preparedness, but it should go beyond the “have some food and water stashed away” stage, the District 1 Community Network heard at this month’s meeting, which featured two other topics – “street sinks” and the local Salvation Army Center.

First – the spotlight presentation was from Cindi Barker, an Upper Morgan Junction resident long active with the Emergency Communication Hubs, a volunteer organization that works to ensure neighborhoods have gathering places in case of catastrophe (find your nearest one here) and to raise awareness of other preparedness issues.

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CRIME WATCH: Burglary arrests; business-incidents suspect followup
December 8, 2021 9:15 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Three notes in Crime Watch tonight:

BURGLARY ARREST: A brief police summary notes a burglary Tuesday evening at the Park West Nursing Center in the 1700 block of California SW. The summary says that, “Upon arrival, officers found a window to a basement door smashed. A check inside located a suspect hiding in a cabinet.” He was arrested and booked into jail; a judge did not set bail, so tonight, after less than 24 hours, he was released. The 44-year-old suspect does not appear to have a felony record; he is awaiting trial on one misdemeanor charge from October in which he was arrested for swinging a four-foot stick at people near Pike Place Market.

BURGLARY CHARGES: We reported this case last night on partner site White Center Now – a man charged in three recent business burglaries in White Center and one in Burien. The suspect, 34-year-old Nicholas E. Pierce, will be arraigned next week. He remains jailed in lieu of $25,000 bail, half of what the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office had asked for.

BUSINESS-INCIDENTS SUSPECT FOLLOWUP: Last week we reported on the case of 44-year-old Joseph Milojevich, charged with robbery for a shoplift-turned-violent at West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor) and with harassment for threatening the owner of The Beer Junction. We also reported how he was out on earlier cases because of competency-related issues. Today his case was back in court for a defense motion to get him a mental evaluation. The court documents say he has been awaiting inpatient treatment for an attempt at competency restoration for an earlier case, and that’s why they want him evaluated again. A judge granted the request. Milojevich remains in jail, bail set at $76,000. We obtained the photo at right from the state Corrections Department, but note that it’s from 2003 – the newest one they have.

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THURSDAY MORNING: Online ‘State of the Port’ presentation
December 8, 2021 8:53 pm
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 |   Port of Seattle | West Seattle news

Just got word of this from the Port of Seattle tonight, and it’s in the morning, so it’ll be too late for our reminder list, and therefore we’re publishing the announcement now:

This year, the Port of Seattle marks 110 years of working for the people of King County and Washington state. Join us as we reflect on this milestone, recognize the efforts this year to help lead an equitable recovery, and set our sights on 2022. Participants include Port Commissioners and Executive Director Steve Metruck. The presentation features community events and accomplishments from throughout the year. More on our event page.

Date: Thursday, December 9, 2021
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. — Virtual Presentation
Join the Virtual Presentation Here
Call in Option (Audio Only)
+15717484021
Pin: 149 1850#

If you can’t watch live, we’re told a recording will be published later in the day.

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WEST SEATTLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: Bright and retro
December 8, 2021 7:02 pm
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 |   Holidays | Sunrise Heights | West Seattle Christmas lights | West Seattle news

Sunrise Heights is rocking the holiday-display world this year! Tonight we have another display from that area – created by Jenny, whose spouse sent the photos:

I wanted to share with you some photos of my wife’s light display this year. We are at 7341 34th Ave SW [map]. There are retro cutouts of Peanuts, Rudolph, and a yeti.

The flag pole is wrapped like a candy cane. And there is Grinch staring ominously out the window by our Christmas tree.

(The yeti, we believe, is Rudolph’s pal Bumble.) Got a display to suggest – yours or someone else’s? We’re showing them nightly through New Year’s Eve. westseattleblog@gmail.com, with or without photos – thank you!

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BIZNOTE: Shug’s Soda Fountain holiday pop-up + future plans
December 8, 2021 5:47 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   Holidays | West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news


(Image courtesy Shug’s Soda Fountain)

Baked Alaska on California! That’s part of what Shug’s Soda Fountain is offering in an upcoming pop-up at its future West Seattle “Mini” location (California/Charlestown). December 18-21st, noon-4 pm each day, Colleen Wilkie of Shug’s says, “We will be offering Baked Alaskas, holiday ice cream & drink gift boxes, and pints of Candy Cane and Egg Nog ice cream. People can also pre-order (preferable) all these items at this link.” They’ve done various pop-ups at the corner, but after three years have yet to open full-time, so we asked Wilkie if that was still in their future plans. She says yes: “We are working more diligently now to open this Spring. Between having a baby, permitting, and the pandemic – we certainly have been in an uphill battle. We are remaining hopeful!”

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THURSDAY: Santa, shopping, music, more during holiday-season West Seattle Art Walk
December 8, 2021 4:08 pm
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 |   Holidays | West Seattle Art Walk | West Seattle news

Tomorrow night brings the last West Seattle Art Walk of the year – wrapped up with extra holiday fun. First, the list of participating venues:

Those holiday extras include Santa himself, strolling The Junction 6-9 pm, posing with you for selfies.

It’s also “Shop Late Thursday” in The Junction, and participating businesses will beckon you in with luminarias. You’ll also be able to shop two holiday markets at Junction businesses, according to Art Walk coordinator Reeve Washburn:

Jet City Labs + Clay Cauldron = Jet City Cauldron, at Jet City’s venue: 4546 1/2 California Ave SW (enter in the alley between California and 41st) and Bin 41: 4707 California Ave SW

Jet City: Jewelry, terrariums, photography, collage, paper goods, abstract art.

Bin 41: jewelry, photography, digital art on wood and acrylic, fused glass, and T’s creations! For our ‘gnome in the home’ fans, there will be a new stash available for purchase at the event!

Outside The Junction, the southernmost Art Walk venue Brace Point Pottery in Arbor Heights (4208 SW 100th) has extended their holiday sale – jewelry, custom clothing, ceramics, more.

One more extra tomorrow night – two more “Art of Music” live performances – both 6-7:40 pm: Jim Page at Great American Diner in The Junction, Veronica Malki at Copper Coin in The Admiral District.

Browse more venues and artists on the official preview page for tomorrow’s Art Walk, which starts at 5 pm and continues “until late.” (WSB is media sponsor for the WSAW.)

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FOLLOWUP: New signal activated on West Marginal Way
December 8, 2021 2:10 pm
|      9 COMMENTS
 |   Safety | Transportation | West Seattle news

Thanks to the commenter who mentioned this: The new crossing signal by the Duwamish Longhouse on West Marginal Way has been activated, after the accompanying crosswalk was painted a few days ago. We asked SDOT for confirmation; spokesperson Ethan Bergerson says, “The signal was turned on yesterday and is operational, but there are still a few adjustments that need to be finished today. One of these items is connecting the push buttons, so we temporarily programmed the signal to display a walk signal automatically until that has been completed.” The signal technically is “temporary” – the permanent one is being designed and is expected to be installed next year. The Duwamish Tribe and community advocates had long pushed for safety improvements here, not just for people parking on the east side of WMW for Longhouse events, but also for better access to the riverfront park, which has major cultural significance.

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In case you see it too: That’s a dead sea lion. (Update: And a live one too)
December 8, 2021 12:12 pm
|      6 COMMENTS
 |   Seen at sea | West Seattle news | Wildlife

12:12 PM: We’re getting multiple reports today about this, so in case you see it too: What looks to some like a “dead baby orca” is actually a dead sea lion, likely the same one that’s been seen on and offshore for a few days now. Kersti Muul gave us first heads-up about it yesterday. The decomposed carcass appears to have a light patch, so that’s why some have mistaken it for an orca. If it washes onshore again, it can be marked with paint, and “hopefully scanned,” Kersti says. If it washes ashore in West Seattle, the Marine Mammal Stranding Network here is Seal Sitters, 206-905-SEAL; in other areas, the regional hotline is 866-767-6114.

4:28 PM: As Kersti noted in comments below, there’s a live sea lion on the Harbor Avenue shore, too – a Steller sea lion, not as common in our area. Stewart L. sent this photo while it was back out in the water:

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GIVING: 3 easy ways to donate in West Seattle in the next 4 days
December 8, 2021 10:51 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   Holidays | How to help | West Seattle news

Lots of generosity so far this season – and still many opportunities to keep giving, if you can. Here are three in the next four days, if you haven’t already seen them in our West Seattle Holiday Guide or on our year-round Event Calendar:

WSHS WINTER CARE-PACKAGE DONATION DRIVE TODAY: Today, 3-5 pm outside West Seattle High School‘s north entrance (3000 California SW) is your third and final opportunity to drop off donated items for this student-led, student-benefiting drive creating “care packages.” Items needed:

Here are hygiene necessities that would be included in care packages:
– packaged masks
– unopened hand sanitizer
– unopened protein bars/granola bars/snacks
– unopened bars of soap
– unopened deodorant
– unused toothbrushes
– unopened toothpaste
– unopened chapstick
– hand warmers

Donations of clothing (used): jackets, sweaters, pants, socks, gloves, hats, scarves, t-shirts, blankets

DRIVE-UP CLOTHING DRIVE THURSDAY, WITH COFFEE: Tomorrow morning (Thursday, December 9th), 10 am-11:30 am, a drive-up donation drive at Daystar Retirement Village (2615 SW Barton; WSB sponsor) is collecting clothing items for the West Seattle Food Bank‘s Clothesline. Your reward: A made-to-order coffee drink! Here are the details, including requested items.

DRIVE-UP FOOD DRIVE SATURDAY: Atticus, now a high-school student, collected food in the Hope Lutheran back lot last year – almost a ton! – and is doing it again this Saturday (December 11th), 10 am-3 pm. He and his brother Dominic will be collecting food and money as well as coats – all sizes – for the Westside Interfaith Network‘s weekly Welcome Table in White Center. The dropoff site (ride-up and walk-up welcome too, of course) is off SW Oregon just east of 42nd SW.

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WEST SEATTLE WEATHER: Slushy
December 8, 2021 9:53 am
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle weather

Thanks for the photo! That’s from Highland Park, one area that got a bit of slush as the latest bout of stormy weather moved through. According to @westseawx, what’s left of a “decaying convergence zone” is to blame. The National Weather Service, meantime, warns a bit of “tidal overflow” is possible along the shore, in tandem with the 12.7-foot high tide that peaked just before 9 am.

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER: Wednesday watch
December 8, 2021 6:07 am
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle Trader Joe's

7:54 AM: Thanks for the tip. A downed tree is causing trouble on W. Marginal approaching the onramp for the 1st Av S Bridge.

———-

6:07 AM Good morning!

WEATHER

More intermittently rainy weather – breezy – high in the 40s.

BRIDGE FYI

Emergency training – potentially including “fake smoke” – will be happening on the high bridge the next two mornings, as noted here.

BUSES, WATER TAXI, FERRIES

Metro is on its regular weekday schedule. Watch @kcmetrobus for word of trip cancellations.

Ferries and Water Taxi: WSF is still running a two-boat schedule on the Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth run. Check here for alerts/updates. The Water Taxi is on its regular schedule.

BRIDGES AND DETOUR ROUTES

625th morning without the West Seattle Bridge. Here are views of other bridges and routes:

Low Bridge: Automated enforcement cameras remain in use; restrictions are in effect 5 am-9 pm daily – except weekends; the bridge is open to all until 8 am Saturday and Sunday mornings. (Access applications are available here for some categories of drivers.)

The 1st Avenue South Bridge (map):

South Park Bridge:

West Marginal Way at Highland Park Way:

Highland Park Way/Holden:

The 5-way intersection (Spokane/West Marginal/Delridge/Chelan):

Are movable bridges opening for vessels? The @SDOTBridges Twitter feed can tell you; 1st Ave. South Bridge openings are also tweeted on @wsdot_traffic.

See all local traffic cams here; locally relevant cameras are also on this WSB page.

Trouble on the streets/paths/bridges/water? Please let us know – text (but not if you’re driving!) 206-293-6302.

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PORT: Congestion easing, but Northwest Seaport Alliance hopes to get more containers moving
December 7, 2021 9:35 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   Port of Seattle | West Seattle news

(WSB photo, view from West Seattle Bridge last week)

The maritime links in the supply chain are loosening, port commissioners from Seattle and Tacoma were told today. Meeting as the managing members of the Northwest Seaport Alliance, they heard from staff that rail-cargo backups have cleared, and that fewer vessels are waiting at anchor. The latter numbers had been in double digits daily for a while, but are now “5 to 7 on a typical day.” The biggest chokepoint, as described in the briefing, remains getting trucks to transport containers off the docks. Containers are covering a relatively sizable amount of space at docks, including 50 acres at Terminal 46 along the south end of downtown Seattle. So they’re looking at a variety of ways to try to address that, including using short-distance rail to get containers off the docks, and charging “long-stay” fees. The NWSA sent a notice about storage charges two weeks ago – from that notice:

… As with other ports on the West Coast who either have already implemented additional storage charges or will soon be doing so, the failure of importers picking up their containers in a timely manner has created severe congestion issues that has prevented terminal operators from properly servicing vessels destined for their terminals. We sincerely hope the additional storage charge will encourage cargo owners to pick up their containers which will allow the terminals in Seattle to again properly service vessels destined to our port and once that has been accomplished, the temporary storage charges will cease….

The opening of the first modernized berth at West Seattle’s Terminal 5 is expected to take more pressure off the vessel backlog; no date’s been announced yet for the first ship to call, but NWSA spokesperson Melanie Stambaugh tells WSB, “At this time, the NWSA is set to transfer operation of Terminal 5 to [tenant] SSA Terminals at the beginning of January.”

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WEST SEATTLE BRIDGE: 3 notes, including emergency-training plans
December 7, 2021 7:11 pm
|      17 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle Bridge Safety Project | West Seattle news

(Image from West Seattle Bridge cam, 11 am today)

Three West Seattle Bridge notes:

EMERGENCY TRAINING: We’ve been reporting on SFD training at a redevelopment site north of the bridge. Now we have word from SDOT that responders will be training ON the bridge the next few mornings:

The Seattle Fire Department will be conducting training exercises and safety drills on top of, and inside, the West Seattle Bridge each morning this week. The public can expect to see emergency first-response vehicles and workers on the bridge each morning until Thursday, December 9. People may also see fake smoke coming from inside the bridge during a drill that will simulate the challenges of conducting a rescue operation inside an enclosed space with limited visibility.

This is a planned training exercise and should not be a cause for alarm. Completing this safety training exercise is an important first step in resuming construction on the bridge. This is one part of the larger safety plan to keep workers and the public safe during construction and keep the project moving smoothly by preventing accidents and ensuring that we are well prepared to respond to any unplanned situations.

SPEAKING OF CONSTRUCTION: Since crews working on the bridge last week were hydroblasting attachment points for new work platforms (WSB coverage here), we asked SDOT how soon those platforms will go up. Spokesperson Ethan Bergerson says, “We’re working to finalize the permits which will allow us to schedule the installation of the work platforms. We’ll be able to say more specific timing once that has been done.” We also asked SDOT if the concrete strike will affect bridge work; spokesperson Mariam Ali says no – “Concrete is not a major part of the current work stage on the West Seattle Bridge.”

TASK FORCE MEETING THURSDAY: The next scheduled public briefing on the bridge will be at 4 pm Thursday, during the West Seattle Bridge Community Task Force‘s monthly meeting. The viewing link is here; we’re hoping to get the agenda tomorrow. (Added: Here it is.)

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WEST SEATTLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: Halloween holdover
December 7, 2021 5:57 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Holidays | Puget Ridge | West Seattle Christmas lights | West Seattle news

Thanks to Ashley for tonight’s photos of a display featuring a Halloween spider (featured here in October) who’s now decked out for the winter holidays:

Garth the Spider has put away his pumpkins and is in full Christmas mode. The neighbors had started adding their own touches – aka Wayne the snail.

Garth, Wayne, and trimmings are at 7019 14th Ave SW [map]. If you have, or see, lights that you want to share with the community, email us at westseattleblog@gmail.com, with or without photos – thank you! Every display we feature is listed in our West Seattle Holiday Guide. You can browse the archives (past years, too) here.

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GIVING: This year’s big West Seattle Food Bank gift from Nucor and its employees
December 7, 2021 2:50 pm
|      7 COMMENTS
 |   Holidays | West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

(WSB photos)

More than two tons of donated food arrived at the West Seattle Food Bank today, all from the annual food drive by Nucor Steel employees in West Seattle.

This year’s donations totaled 4.300 pounds in all, delivered to WSFB’s High Point HQ this morning with truck/trailer assistance from Tacoma Hydraulics.

Along with the food, Nucor and its employees donated $20,237 – which will go a long way toward helping WSFB buy even more food to help fight hunger.

You can donate to WSFB too – along with money, we asked executive director Fran Yeatts about this year’s most-needed items.

Here’s the list:

-Hams and turkeys for the holidays
-Diapers, including pull-ups for toddlers
-Food with a long shelf life, such as peanut butter and soup
-Snacks for the Backpack Program
-Gluten-free food
-Plant milks including oat and almond
-Cat and dog food, preferably wet; the need for cat food is greatest

Hours and location are on the WSFB website. Also – lots of food drives around the peninsula this holiday season – even a student-led drive-up collection this Saturday!

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FOLLOWUP: Firefighter training continues at 3417 Harbor SW
December 7, 2021 2:25 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle fires | West Seattle news

Thanks for sending the photos/video! (Above, from Jean; below, from Sean.) As we first reported Monday, firefighters are using the destined-for-demolition building at 3417 Harbor SW for training.

You’ll note in the clip that they’re using power tools – a common sound/sight at house fires, once the flames have reached the attic.

The site just north of the West Seattle Bridge is planned for a 115-unit apartment building.

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BIZNOTE: Gyros on Alki Avenue uncloaks
December 7, 2021 12:16 pm
|      21 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news | West Seattle restaurants

Thanks for the tips! The former Phoenecia space at 2716 Alki Avenue SW has an awning up announcing its future tenant – Gyros on Alki Avenue, promising (along with gyros) shawarma, falafel, and salads. Online records indicate the proprietor also has been associated with other restaurants including Dino’s Grill in Tukwila and Dino’s Gyros in Burien. We have messages out seeking details such as when they plan to open on Alki. The space has been vacant for three years (as you likely know, Phoenecia has long since reopened in The Junction). As for the other half of the building – the former Alki Cleaners space, it still has “For Lease” signage; we reported four months ago on a tentative plan for a market, and are checking back to see what happened to that.

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From White Center Now: New restaurant for former Taradise Café space
December 7, 2021 10:57 am
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle restaurants | White Center

One of the vacant spaces on 16th SW in White Center won’t be vacant much longer. Last night on partner site White Center Now, we reported that the former Taradise Café space at 9808 16th SW – closed since last summer, a few weeks before its proprietor Tara Eckman Scott died – has a new tenant, Que Chevere will be a “Latino fusion” restaurant and bar – with an emphasis on the food, proprietor Felipe Maqueda tells us. See the full story here.

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11 for your West Seattle Tuesday
December 7, 2021 10:19 am
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(For a little color on this murky morning, here’s Sunday’s sunrise, from Jerry Simmons)

From the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide and year-round Event Calendar, here’s what’s happening for the rest of today/tonight:

TRAINING FIRE: Reminder that fire crews are training at 3417 Harbor SW (just north of the bridge), as reported yesterday.

PATHFINDER WREATH SALES: Handmade wreaths are on sale to benefit the Pathfinder K-8 PTSA – our story explains how to get one (or more!) – order online, pick up on Puget Ridge.

FESTIVAL OF TREES: Brookdale Admiral Heights (2326 California SW) has a lobby full of donated, decorated trees – to see them, stop in 8 am-8 pm through Thursday evening, which is when they’ll be auctioned off as a charity fundraiser.

ALKI CO-OP PRESCHOOL BOOK BENEFIT: Today through Sunday, shop at Paper Boat Booksellers (6040 California SW) and mention Alki Co-op Preschool – they’ll get a percentage of your purchase.

NW SEAPORT ALLIANCE: 11 am, port commissioners from Seattle and Tacoma meet together as the Northwest Seaport Alliance managing members. An update on cargo flow is part of the agenda. You can watch here.

ALKI ELEMENTARY BENEFIT: From the Alki Elementary PTA:

TONIGHT is Alki School Night at Good Society! From 3-10 p.m. a portion of your purchase can go to Alki Elementary PTA, just mention you are supporting Alki Elementary when you order.
The Good Society Brewery & Public House
2701 California Ave SW

DEMONSTRATION: Scott continues leading weekly sign-waving for racial justice 4:30-6 pm Tuesdays at 16th/Holden – signs available if you don’t bring your own.

DUWAMISH RIVER CLEANUP: 5:30 pm, online meeting with the EPA to explain the feasibility study for the East Waterway cleanup on the Duwamish River. Our calendar listing has more details, including how to attend.

WESTSIDE SCHOOL INFO NIGHT: 6 pm, prospective middle-school families are invited to attend an online informational event about Westside School (WSB sponsor) – email tedh@westsideschool.org to get the attendance link.

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRAS: 7 pm – free concert by the West Seattle Community Orchestras, playing this time – first concert since 2019! – at the Highline Performing Arts Center (401 S. 152nd, Burien), as previewed here.

BELLE OF THE BALLS BINGO: 8 pm at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW).

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Celebration of Life planned December 14 for Catherine M. Riddle, 1991-2021
December 7, 2021 8:59 am
|      9 COMMENTS
 |   Obituaries | West Seattle news

Family and friends will gather next week to celebrate the life of Catherine Mae Riddle. Here’s the remembrance they are sharing:

Catherine “Buggie” Mae Riddle passed away November 23, 2021. She was born on January 20th, 1991 to Greg and Eileen Riddle.

Family and friends will gather for the celebration of life for Catherine on December 14th, from 2 pm-5 pm at the Queen City Yacht Club, 2608 Boyer Ave E., Seattle. COVID-19 vaccination or negative test 72 hours in advance.

Catherine had to overcome several medical issues during the past seven years ranging from end-stage renal disease to two strokes in the last two years. She passed away from a rare condition, Calciphylaxis.

Although she had several health issues that she endured, she always remained in high spirits. When doing dialysis at the kidney center, her nurses nicknamed her “Sunshine” because she was always an easy patient to deal with. The first 2 years she dialyzed in center and for the next 5 years doing home hemo dialysis.

Everyone always had something positive to say about Catherine. She truly made the best out of whatever situation she was involved in and always spoke highly of anyone who walked into her life.

Catherine’s hobbies included online gaming, gifting the most unique and generous presents, and capturing photos of her loved ones. Catherine will always be remembered for her radiating smile, infectious laughter, bubbly personality, strength, and unconditional love. The lights of her life were her nieces and nephews who brought her great joy.

She is survived by her mother Eileen Riddle, sister Kristine Elliott (Ryan), brother Trevor Riddle (Shawna), nieces Reese, Grace, Shae, and Lucy, & nephews Luke, Blake, and Chase.

Catherine is preceded in death by her father Greg Riddle and grandmother Dortha Peterson.

You will always be loved and missed dearly, Buggie.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER: Tuesday watch
December 7, 2021 6:03 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:03 AM Good morning!

WEATHER

Gray, occasionally rainy – today’s high near 50.

BUSES, WATER TAXI, FERRIES

Metro is on its regular weekday schedule. Watch @kcmetrobus for word of trip cancellations.

Ferries and Water Taxi: WSF is still running a two-boat schedule on the Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth run. Check here for alerts/updates. The Water Taxi is on its regular schedule.

BRIDGES AND DETOUR ROUTES

624th morning without the West Seattle Bridge. Here are views of other bridges and routes:

Low Bridge: Automated enforcement cameras remain in use; restrictions are in effect 5 am-9 pm daily – except weekends; the bridge is open to all until 8 am Saturday and Sunday mornings. (Access applications are available here for some categories of drivers.)

The 1st Avenue South Bridge (map):

South Park Bridge:

West Marginal Way at Highland Park Way:

Highland Park Way/Holden:

The 5-way intersection (Spokane/West Marginal/Delridge/Chelan):

Are movable bridges opening for vessels? The @SDOTBridges Twitter feed can tell you; 1st Ave. South Bridge openings are also tweeted on @wsdot_traffic.

See all local traffic cams here; locally relevant cameras are also on this WSB page.

Trouble on the streets/paths/bridges/water? Please let us know – text (but not if you’re driving!) 206-293-6302.

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CORONAVIRUS:Rate of new cases in Seattle Public Schools stays steady
December 6, 2021 11:59 pm
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   Coronavirus | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

This roundup has two weeks of info about COVID-19 cases at Seattle Public Schools, since we skipped one weekly update because of the holiday/conferences-shortened school week. So the count for the past two weeks – since our last update – is 112 cases, slightly below the 115 in the two previous weeks. Here are the school-by-school breakouts for our area, cumulative school-year totals plus the changes from two weeks earlier:

Denny International Middle School – 24, up 3
Chief Sealth International High School – 20, unchanged
Roxhill Elementary – 15, up 3
Arbor Heights Elementary – 13, up 2
Highland Park Elementary – 13, unchanged
Madison Middle School – 11, unchanged
Genesee Hill Elementary – 11, unchanged
Louisa Boren STEM K-8 – 10, up 2
Lafayette Elementary – 10, up 2
Gatewood Elementary – 9, unchanged
Concord International (Elementary) – 8, up 1
West Seattle Elementary – 8, unchanged
West Seattle High School – 6, up 2
Fairmount Park Elementary – 5, up 2
Pathfinder K-8 – 5, up 1
Alki Elementary – 5, up 1
Sanislo Elementary – 4, unchanged
BRIDGES @ Roxhill – 1, unchanged

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DEVELOPMENT: 9218 18th SW finishes Design Review in three meetings
December 6, 2021 9:39 pm
|      6 COMMENTS
 |   Delridge | Development | West Seattle news

Southwest Design Review Board members’ final meeting of the year was their third look at 9218 18th SW, a mixed-use proposal for a triangular site in South Delridge.

The meeting carried on despite the four participating board members – all West Seattleites – dealing with power flickers related to that night’s big outage. Board chair Scott Rosenstock was joined by members John Cheng, Alan Grainger, and Johanna Lirman. From Caron Architecture, Radim Blazej gave the presentation, explaining that they’re planning a “very lively street-level” commercial aspect on the ground floor, fronting both streets. Changes made during the Design Review process cut the number of units from 56 to the current 48. He said that they received a last-minute “zoning correction” that changed how the entry will work. He also listed changes made in response to board feedback in the previous meeting (WSB coverage here), including window additions to the east and south facades to lessen “blank facade” problems. No parking is required, but they’re providing underground parking – 28 spaces. He also noted the new public-art installation that’s adjacent to the project site, saying it’s sort of a “mini-park.”

Most of the board discussion focused on the entrance revision, and agreeing that if it led to a requirement for a zoning exception, they would support that. They also wanted to ensure there’s differentiation between the residential and commercial entry spaces, perhaps some combination of plantings and lights. No public comments were offered, either before or during the meeting. But if you have something to say about the project – not just design, but any other aspects – you still have time to email comments to assigned city planner David Sachs, at david.sachs@seattle.gov.

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