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South Seattle College student featured at ‘Facing Race’ report-release event
December 18, 2015 1:09 am
|    Comments Off on South Seattle College student featured at ‘Facing Race’ report-release event
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle people

(13th Year student Dulce Saucedo, who spoke at the event)
A public-affairs group chose South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) as the setting for releasing its legislative scorecard on issues of racial equity. Thanks to SSC for the photo and summary:

On December 16, South Seattle College hosted the Facing Race Coalition group as it released the “Facing Race Legislative Report Card.” The report graded Washington State legislators on 34 bills “that impact disparities in communities of color.”

A portion of the report focused on education. House Bill 1541 was categorized as a missed opportunity in the report. The bill failed and was aimed to “implement strategies to close the educational opportunity gap.” South Seattle College’s 13th Year Promise Scholarship has closed that gap for many students, including Dulce Saucedo. The 13th Year Promise Scholarship provides one-year of free tuition all graduating seniors from Cleveland, Chief Sealth International, and Rainier Beach high schools – regardless of their grades or finances. As a beneficiary of the scholarship, Saucedo – a Sealth graduate – has been able to continue her education and overcome the financial hardships placed on her family. Without the scholarship, Saucedo said that higher education would not have been an option for her. She shared her story at Wednesday’s news conference and explained how the scholarship closed the educational opportunity gap for her.

“The 13th Year Scholarship has leveled the playing field,” Saucedo, who plans on going to medical school, explained. “I’m a first-generation college student, and I want to prove to my family that I can pursue my professional dreams.”

Here’s a link to the full report; of this district’s three state legislators, Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon got an A+, and Rep. Eileen Cody and Sen. Sharon Nelson both got A’s.

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FOLLOWUP: Questions and some answers, the day after Sealth student’s arrest following bullets, gun found at school
December 17, 2015 7:52 pm
|      16 COMMENTS
 |   Safety | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

One day after Chief Sealth International High School told families a student had been arrested in connection with the discovery of bullets and a stolen gun at school, we asked more followup questions, and here’s what we’ve received in response, via Seattle Public Schools spokesperson Stacy Howard:

*The district can’t comment as to why the notification went out at the end of the day, and says there is no policy about how soon such notifications should be made.

*They can’t comment on what discipline the student might face separate from potential prosecution, as that is “private” information.

*We asked how many guns were found on SPS campuses so far this year; reply – this was the only one so far.

Meantime, principal Jeff Clark from neighboring Denny International Middle School sent us this letter he sent to families today; it includes a followup letter that Sealth principal Aida Fraser-Hammer sent to families at her school (we received a copy of her followup letter from the district earlier today).

Dear Denny Families,

Yesterday, there was an incident at Chief Sealth.  The principal of Chief Sealth, Ms. Fraser-Hammer, wrote the letter below which is being sent home and shared with the calling machine.  We want you to be aware as well.  Safety continues to our top priority—we are prioritizing this with our collaboration with Chief Sealth.

Sincerely,

Jeff Clark, Principal
Denny International Middle School

(Sealth followup letter)

December 17, 2015

Dear Chief Sealth families,
 
I want to follow up on the incident at our school yesterday. I understand you might have some questions or concerns, so I would like to give you some clarity on the situation.

Prior to the start of school yesterday morning, a gun magazine was discovered in a classroom. I notified SPS security and began an investigation to determine its origin and whether a student was involved. SPS security and administration interviewed several students, and identified a potential student of concern. The student was immediately escorted to the office where SPD and school security secured the incident. The student took responsibility for bringing a weapon and said he did not intend to harm anyone. Seattle Police arrested the student.

Please know that we take safety in our buildings very seriously; the well-being of our students is our top concern. I am proud of how our staff responded to this incident.

We will continue to coordinate with SPD and are committed to doing everything we can to keep our students safe. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Aida Fraser-Hammer
Chief Sealth International High School

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‘Star Wars’ mania in West Seattle: Meeples Games this weekend
December 17, 2015 4:25 pm
|      5 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

(Some of Meeples’ Star Wars merchandise, photographed on Shop Small Saturday)
Going to “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” at a premiere event tonight? Or sometime soon? You can indulge your “Star Wars” fandom outside the theater, too, with a stop at Meeples Games (WSB sponsor) this weekend. In case you haven’t already seen it in the WSB Event Calendar, here’s the announcement from Meeples proprietor Laura Schneider:

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…

Ok, so not long ago, but This Weekend…

And, not far away, but right in your neighborhood…

Meeples Games is having an all-out Star Wars celebration! This is your chance to check out some of these awesome Star Wars games you’ve heard so much about. You can watch, learn to play and get in the action!

Here’s the schedule:

Saturday 11:00 am – 1:00 pm: Star Wars X-Wing Demonstrations

Saturday 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Star Wars Role Playing Game

Saturday 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm: Star Wars Armada Demonstrations

Saturday 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Star Wars Imperial Assault

Sunday 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm: Star Wars X-Wing Trench Run Demonstration

Sunday 4:00 pm: – Meeples is closing for us to all go see the movie! Woo!!

Meeples is at 3727 California SW (upstairs).

P.S. The new “Star Wars” movie will be at The Admiral, so you don’t have to leave WS to see it.

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TRAFFIC ALERT: Crash at Highland Park Way & Holden
December 17, 2015 4:03 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS breaking news

No injuries reported, but traffic is slow at Highland Park Way and Holden while a multi-vehicle crash is cleared, so if you’re heading out any time soon and have to go through that busy intersection, you might consider an alternative, or waiting a bit. (Thanks for the tip texted to our hotline, 206-293-6302.)

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Winter solstice Monday night! Celebrate it with Alice Enevoldsen
December 17, 2015 1:07 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   Skies Over West Seattle | West Seattle news

On a gray rainy day, if you’re longing for more light, it might be some consolation that the winter solstice is just a few days away. And as is customary for the changing of the season, you can celebrate it – and learn about it – at Solstice Park in West Seattle, with NASA Solar System Ambassador Alice Enevoldsen from Skies Over West Seattle and Alice’s Astro Info.

(That photo from Winter Solstice Watch 2014 was shared by Lori.) If you’ve never been to a solstice or equinox watch with Alice – Solstice Park has markers placed at spots that line up with the sunset closest to the solstices and equinoxes, and Alice usually gives a short, fun presentation explaining and demonstrating exactly what the terms mean. Next Monday, the sun will disappear around 4:05 pm, so show up at the park around 3:45 – more info on Alice’s website – all ages welcome, and encouraged. P.S. If you’re keeping track, the solstice moment itself is a few hours later – 8:40 pm – the official arrival of winter.

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West Seattle Crime Watch: Home, car break-in reader reports
December 17, 2015 10:44 am
|      9 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Two reader reports to share this morning:

THEY EVEN TOOK THE PILLOWCASES: From Jim in Arbor Heights:

Heads up for those in the Arbor Heights/Marine View vicinity. Our home was burglarized (Wednesday). It happened while we were at work. Busted the window pane on the front door to gain access…the door was wide open when we arrived home with our cat standing in the door way. They got watches, jewelry, some heirlooms, cash, some jackets. A couple of pillowcases are missing….I guess a criminal’s version of a reusable bag. It could have been far worse. Police report filed.

We followed up with Jim to ask about any particular items that people might watch out for if they’re browsing online listings, etc.:

They took a number of very identifiable items: a Breitling Blackbird watch with a black leather strap. They also took some mid 1800s daguerreotype photos in original leather cases. They look like little embossed leather books that open up with picture inside. These were family images. Not sure why they took those except for the fact that the pictures are printed on metal plate that looks like silver.

CAR BREAK-IN: From Randall:

Overnight (Tuesday night-Wednesday morning), 31st & Trenton: Backpack full of kids’ clothes & snacks taken. Nothing of value other than sentimental. Thanks for the broken window, though!

P.S. If you’re interested in overall stats, SPD shares them in various ways, but we just noticed that they updated the Seastat page for the first time in almost two months, and you can view the slide deck there for an easy one-glance look at key categories – for other precincts as well as ours (Southwest, which includes West Seattle and South Park).

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West Seattle Thursday: ‘Shop Late’; music; belly dancing; more…
December 17, 2015 9:00 am
|      10 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Alki Point photo by Gary Jones)

Here are your highlights of what’s up today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide and year-round Event Calendar:

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: 10:30 am at Southwest Library, bring your 3- to 5-year-old(s)! (35th SW & SW Henderson)

TODDLER STORY TIME: 11:30 am at High Point Library. (35th SW & SW Raymond)

DIY HOLIDAY CRAFTS: Another chance for teens to make gifts and wrap them at Hiawatha Community Center, 2:30-4 pm. Details in our listing. (2700 California SW)

12s FOR GOOD: From Brookdale West Seattle: “We are hosting the 12 Days of Goodness/12’s for Good evening Extravaganza! This will be a fundraising event for a company called Answers for Elders, benefiting the Meals on Wheels program and Rebuilding Together. Join us for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. This is a free event, but we are accepting donations and all proceeds go to these charities. We will have special guest Tony Ventrella here as well as surprise guests that are Seahawks Alumni! 6-7:30 pm.” (4611 35th SW)

SHOP LATE THURSDAY: Part of West Seattle Junction Hometown Holidays, one last Thursday night before Christmas week, many stores open until 9 pm – listed here.

DENNY/SEALTH CONCERT: Musicians from Denny International Middle School and Chief Sealth International High School perform a free concert in the CSIHS Auditorium, 7 pm – details in our calendar listing. (2600 SW Thistle)

UNPLUGGED: Monthly open-microphone event at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7 pm – details in our calendar listing. (5612 California SW)

ALAUDA BELLY-DANCE SHOWCASE: 7:30 pm, the all-ages showcase at The Skylark. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

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TRAFFIC/TRANSIT TODAY: Thursday updates & alerts
December 17, 2015 6:30 am
|      26 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

(Six WS-relevant views; more cams on the WSB Traffic page)
6:30 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Thursday, December 17th – one week until Christmas Eve, two weeks until New Year’s Eve, last full day of school before winter break (tomorrow’s an hour-early-dismissal day for Seattle Public Schools).

One reminder to start the day – Friday night marks the first of a series of overnight closures for part of Highway 99 north of the Battery Street Tunnel – full details on the WSDOT website.

9:25 AM: Compounding what – as commenters have noted – has been a lousy traffic morning everywhere, there’s now a report of a crash on the eastbound West Seattle Bridge by the 99 exit. And at this exact moment, the low bridge also has closed to surface traffic.

10:04 AM: Debris reported on the westbound bridge by the Admiral exit – @HommeSea says it’s a broken ladder.

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Another baby orca! Eighth calf in a year for Southern Resident Killer Whales
December 16, 2015 9:35 pm
|      10 COMMENTS
 |   Seen at sea | West Seattle news | Wildlife

(Photo by Dave Ellifrit)
Puget Sound’s endangered orca pods – the Southern Resident Killer Whales – have another calf, the eighth in the past year. The announcement came tonight from the Center for Whale Research:

Another new Baby in J Pod!! Designated J54 – sex unknown.

Mother is J28, a twenty-two year old female Southern Resident Killer Whale in the Pacific Northwest. The mother had a previous baby designated J46, a female, born in 2009 and still surviving. This brings the known births of Southern Resident Killer Whales (SRKW) to EIGHT since last December, and the total population of SRKW’s as of now to 84 known individuals. 1977 is the only previous year in the past forty years in which as many baby killer whales were born into this community of whales, and there were nine in that year. From calculations accounting for all reproductive age females, we estimate that typically up to nine babies could be produced each year, but there is usually a high rate of neonatal and perinatal mortality, and we have seen only three babies annually on average. In the years immediately following poor salmon years, we see fewer babies and higher mortality of all age cohorts.

The new baby, J54, was first seen on 1 December 2015 by several whale-watchers near San Juan Island, and photographed with J28 by Ivan Reiff, a Pacific Whale Watch Association member. However, the 1 December photographs were not conclusive in that they did not reveal distinct features of eyepatch and “saddle” pigment shape that could unequivocally rule out that it was not another baby being “baby sat” by J28. Today’s photographs in Haro Strait between San Juan Islands and Vancouver Island confirm the distinct features required for alpha-numeric designation. The new baby is estimated to be two and a half to three weeks old as of now. The family, including mother and sister, grandmother, aunt, uncles, and cousin, and other J pod members continued North in Haro Strait and Swanson Channel by sunset. Presumably, they are destined for the Strait of Georgia where J pod spent an extended amount of time last December.

It is clear that the SRKW population (in particular J pod) is investing in the future, and that survival of all of the new calves and their mothers and relatives depends upon a future with plentiful salmon, especially Chinook salmon, in the eastern North Pacific Ocean ecosystem. This may be problematic with pending and unfolding Climate Change that is anticipated to be detrimental to salmon survival, in the ocean and in the rivers. Warmer ocean waters are less productive, and rivers without continual water (no snow melt – rains runoff too quickly) and with warmer water are lethal to salmon. The Pacific Salmon Foundation and Long Live the Kings are non-profit organizations concerned with the declining survival of juvenile salmon in the Salish Sea, and the Center for Whale Research is a non-profit organization concerned with the survival and demographic vigor of the Southern Resident Killer Whales in the Salish Sea and coastally from Vancouver Island to California. Please get involved and support these important environmental organizations.

The SRKWs’ baby boom started late last year.

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VIDEO: Caroling surprise for ailing West Seattleite, ‘best gift ever’
December 16, 2015 7:29 pm
|      13 COMMENTS
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

Those are the cheery carolers who showed up this afternoon outside a house near Madison Middle School, to make the season brighter for a seriously ill neighbor. We mentioned the call for carolers here late last night; Marcia wanted to surprise her friend Harold, a retired police officer who loves Christmas. We counted at least 25 people of all ages:

Marcia was going in and out of Harold’s house to be sure he was seeing the carolers – and thto show him some of the singing that she recorded on her tablet. She reports he was touched and called it the best Christmas gift he’d ever received.

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West Seattle Crime Watch: Student arrested after gun, bullets found at Chief Sealth IHS
December 16, 2015 5:20 pm
|      28 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

5:20 PM: Just forwarded by multiple Chief Sealth International High School parents, this letter sent to families by principal Aida Fraser-Hammer:

I want to notify you of an incident which occurred today at our school. A few minutes before the start of school today, a teacher found a magazine from a .22 caliber gun in his classroom. There were 2 bullets in the magazine.

The teacher immediately brought the magazine to my office and we immediately began an investigation to determine how and when the magazine got there, to whom it belonged and the location of the gun that the magazine fit into. Naturally, our first concern was for the safety of all students and staff.

After a thorough investigation, we were able to quickly identify the location of the gun, the student who brought it to campus, and that the gun was not loaded. The student was arrested and charged with bringing a gun on campus and possession of a stolen gun. Please know that everything was handled in a safe and secure fashion without putting any of our students or staff in danger. The student was removed from campus without resistance. I want to applaud the security and the teacher for their prompt response to the situation.

This is the only notification/announcement we’re seeing – nothing from Seattle Police or Seattle Public Schools. So we have a variety of questions to follow up on, and will add anything more we subsequently find out.

5:40 PM: While the letter says the incident happened “before the start of school” – which suggests, in the 8 am hour – the e-mail is time-stamped 4:49 pm, and the only reference to the incident we’re finding on Tweets by Beat is this call, time-stamped 4:25 pm. (Added clarification at 6:21 pm: The automated tweet was at 4:25 pm; it says the incident was “reported” at 3:52 pm. That is likely the time the report was finalized in the system, as we subsequently got confirmation it happened and was called in in the morning.)

5:46 PM: We did just reach Det. Patrick Michaud at SPD media relations, to get some additional details: The student is 15 years old and was taken to juvenile detention. The gun was a .22-caliber handgun and it was indeed confirmed as stolen; the letter’s use of the word “charged,” however, is inaccurate, as it would be up to prosecutors to decide whether to file charges. The police report says the school called SPD about this at 11:25 am.

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FOLLOWUP: Milestone for West Seattle Nursery expansion project
December 16, 2015 3:33 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   Gardening | West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

That photo courtesy of West Seattle Nursery is a view from their original building, looking at the crane that has arrived for their expansion project next door. Today’s milestone: The walls are starting to go up. (See more photos on the WSN website.) It’s been a little over two months since work started in earnest, with demolition of the small old house on the lot to the north of the current nursery (they offered to give it away to anyone who could move it, but nothing worked out). The expansion, designed by LD Arch Design and built by Ventana Construction (both West Seattle businesses and WSB sponsors), is expected to be done by spring; find more details here.

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From the ‘in case you wondered’ file: Cleanup at 3025 Avalon Way
December 16, 2015 2:09 pm
|      11 COMMENTS
 |   Seen around town | West Seattle news

Thanks to Eddie for the tip: Cleanup work is under way at the overgrown, vandalized ex-church at 3025 SW Avalon Way. The site came up for discussion in WSB comments when we reported an early-stage 60-apartment proposal nearby. Still nothing on the books for this site, and we verified with the crew on site that they’re contractors hired for cleanup, no construction involved. (The city page for the site shows a history of complaints about its conditions in recent years.)

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Out with the DPD, in with SDCI and OPCD: What you need to know
December 16, 2015 11:56 am
|    Comments Off on Out with the DPD, in with SDCI and OPCD: What you need to know
 |   Development | West Seattle news

Six months ago, Mayor Murray announced he was breaking up the Department of Planning and Development. Now, the two-way split is about to become official. If you’re interested in land use/development/construction/related issues, here’s what the city says you need to know:

Read More

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West Seattle Wednesday: Celebration, information, inspiration …
December 16, 2015 9:58 am
|    Comments Off on West Seattle Wednesday: Celebration, information, inspiration …
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

Thanks to James Bratsanos for the photo of the snowy Olympics emerging this morning! Now, looking ahead to the rest of the day – from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide and year-round Event Calendar:

FOOD TRUCK BACK AT C & P: 11 am-2 pm, you get another chance to try Napkin Friends, the “latke-sandwich food truck,” at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), parked out back. (5612 California SW)

GRAB YOUR LUNCH AND TAKE IT TO … the free weekly networking meetup at our area’s only coworking center, West Seattle Office Junction (WSB sponsor), a few blocks south – details here. (6040 California SW)

HOLIDAY CRAFTS/WRAPPING FOR TEENS: Another drop-in session for teens to make gifts and wrap them at Hiawatha Community Center, 2:30-4 pm each day. Details in our listing. (2700 California SW)

COLLEGE PREP WORKSHOP: Trust us, if someone in your household is looking ahead to college, there’s no such thing as being TOO prepared. So check out this 4 pm workshop at High Point Community Center. (6920 34th SW)

DO A GOOD DEED – CAROL! As we noted late last night, a West Seattle woman is asking for volunteer carolers to join her for a few minutes to make a very ill neighbor (who is a retired police officer) happy – meet at 4:30 pm in the 3600 block of 48th SW.

‘CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS!’ Community Christmas party tonight at Trinity West Seattle, 6:30 pm. “Everyone is welcome! There will be pictures with Santa, ‘Santa’s Workshop’ (crafts and activities for kids), live music by Lindstrom & Company, and a dessert bar.” (7551 35th SW)

HOLIDAY MUSIC: Sounds of Christmas concert at Hope Lutheran Church, 7 pm: “Join us for a fantastic evening of music performed by the Hope School Choir, Glee Club, Bell Choir, and the Seattle Lutheran High School band. All are welcome and encouraged to come join the festivities!” (42nd SW & SW Oregon)

34TH DISTRICT REPUBLICANS: 7 pm at the American Legion Hall in The Triangle, it’s the group’s holiday party, with guest Sen. Mark Miloscia, who’s running for state auditor. (3618 SW Alaska)

HIGH-SCHOOL BASKETBALL: 7:30 pm home games for the girls-varsity teams at West Seattle HS (vs. Lakeside; 3000 California SW) and Chief Sealth IHS (vs. Rainier Beach; 2600 SW Thistle).

AND ONE MORE LOOK AT THE OLYMPICS … got this from John Bartell moments after we had published this, so, adding!

Thanks again to our photo contributors – editor@westseattleblog.com or if it’s breaking, you can also text 206-293-6302!

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TRAFFIC/TRANSIT TODAY: Wednesday updates; W. Marginal Way SW reopens one lane each way at noontime after overnight closure for City Light work
December 16, 2015 7:09 am
|      20 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

(SCROLL DOWN FOR W. MARGINAL WAY SW CLOSURE UPDATES)

(Six WS-relevant views; more cams on the WSB Traffic page)
7:09 AM: Though there’s been no alert from SDOT, we’re told West Marginal Way SW is still closed near the Duwamish Longhouse, following a crash last night that was reported to have taken out a utility pole.

7:38 AM: Our crew has just verified that it’s indeed closed both ways in the 4700 block while Seattle City Light crews work on repairs:

The pole is down by the Herrings House Park entrance on the river side of the road.

8:10 AM: Here’s a view showing the work right over the Duwamish Trail:

8:34 AM: Now there’s a crash at W. Marginal Way and Puget Way. Multiple sources say it involves a semi-truck.

9:09 AM: For now, we’ll continue updating the W. Marginal situation here. We’re also checking with City Light on why this has been an all-night-and-beyond repair job.

9:31 AM: City Light’s Scott Thomsen explains why this has been so complicated:

The crash involved a semi tractor-trailer. It obliterated the pole.

First, crews had to wait for the semi to be removed before they could start work.

They also have had to take extra safety precautions because the location is right next to a railroad line. That’s why the crews have been using the roadway as their work zone. Other safety considerations are in place because of an adjacent high-voltage transmission line.

Then there’s the complicated nature of the repair because of the equipment that particular pole was hosting.

That pole was carrying two feeder circuits and switching gear. It uses our heaviest, most robust wire, so replacing the lines requires more equipment and lineworkers.

Because of the location and the weight of all that gear, the pole was reinforced with a support pole and multiple guy wires on the opposite side of the road.

Crews continue to work on replacing all of that equipment and expect to finish about noon.

11:57 AM: Thanks to the commenter who reported that W. Marginal Way SW now has one lane open each way.

ADDED WEDNESDAY EVENING: We asked SDOT about the lack of signage and other alerts. Spokesperson Norm Mah replied: “While Seattle City Light had appropriate traffic control near their major electrical repair response, advance warning signage on the roadway likely would have been beneficial for providing earlier warning to the traveling public. We will work with SCL to ensure they incorporate that for future emergency repair responses that require temporary roadway closures.”

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West Seattle holidays: Carolers needed for a surprise gift!
December 15, 2015 11:17 pm
|      12 COMMENTS
 |   Holidays | How to help | West Seattle news

Can you spare some time – and your voice – for some special holiday cheer? At 4:30 pm Wednesday, carolers are gathering in the 3600 block of 48th Ave. SW – just west of Madison Middle School – to surprise a neighborhood resident who we are told is very ill and receiving home-based hospice care. We’re also told he’s a retired police officer who “loves Christmas.” His friend Marcia is organizing this and says, “It would just take a few minutes and would be a chance to give back to someone willing to give all.”

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West Seattle holidays: Cocoa Cris Cringle’s Theatrical Holiday Photo Funomenon, and other additions to our guide
December 15, 2015 9:20 pm
|    Comments Off on West Seattle holidays: Cocoa Cris Cringle’s Theatrical Holiday Photo Funomenon, and other additions to our guide
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

Updating the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide with more events from now through New Year’s, including …

(Photo courtesy Cocoa Cris Cringle)
Easy Street Records will again host Cocoa Cris Cringle, as a benefit for the West Seattle Food Bank, and Cocoa Cris e-mailed us today to make sure we knew in time to share the news – it’s his 7th annual “Theatrical Holiday Photo Funomenon“! 4-9 pm this Saturday (December 19th), “shop for records, enjoy hot cocoa, and prepare to have a truly unique holiday photo experience … Cocoa welcomes families, individuals, groups, and most pets. … Suggested donation $15-$20, superflexible. Includes 3 poses with a variety of hats, props, and a fog machine. One printed photo to take with you, and shots with your smartphone or camera.” Easy Street is in the heart of The Junction on the NW corner of California/Alaska.

P.S. Other new additions to the guide include Santa at West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor) with multiple appearances during the last week before Christmas; details on Highland Park Improvement Club‘s not-to-be-missed New Year’s Eve celebration, including the legendary Not-So-Silent-Night Parade; and New Year’s yoga at Sound Yoga (WSB sponsor). We’ve also just received more listings for Christmas Eve/Day church services, and we’re making our Christmas list of restaurants/coffee. Anything to contribute to the guide, happening between now and New Year’s Day? E-mail us the info ASAP so we can get it in – editor@westseattleblog.com – thanks!

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TRAFFIC ALERT: Crash closes West Marginal Way SW
December 15, 2015 6:51 pm
|      17 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts | WS breaking news

6:51 PM: Thanks for the tips that a crash response is blocking West Marginal Way SW near the Duwamish Longhouse (4700 block). We don’t have details of the crash but we’d suggest avoiding the area for now.

7:50 PM: SDOT update via Twitter:

7:14 AM: As you can see from the comments, the road apparently remains closed – we’re off to see if we can find out why.

7:37 AM: City Light is still working right at the Duwamish Longhouse (4700 block W. Marginal Way SW) and we’ve verified, the road is indeed still closed at that point, both directions.

8:01 AM: Please see our daily traffic watch for continuing coverage of the closure, as repair work continues.

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FOLLOWUP: Westwood Post Office’s drive-up mailbox returns
December 15, 2015 4:36 pm
|      9 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | Westwood

Thanks to Jissy for the tip – the much-asked-about Westwood Village drive-up mailbox is back. Just last Friday, the USPS confirmed to WSB that it was done repairing the box that was damaged by fire in late August, and would bring it back “soon.” Its arrival is just one day after what was expected to be the busiest mailing day of the holiday season. The USPS had told us that the box couldn’t simply be replaced because it didn’t have a surplus mailbox of this type; this was the second time this year it needed repairs – first time was after a driver hit it in March.

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West Seattle Crime Watch: Gunfire in Highland Park leads to search in White Center; car, house break-ins
December 15, 2015 3:34 pm
|      18 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | Highland Park | West Seattle news | White Center

We start this West Seattle Crime Watch roundup with a story that’s still developing:

GUNFIRE & SEARCH: For the second consecutive afternoon, police are investigating gunfire, with no injuries reported. This time it happened at or near the Seamart store at 16th and Holden. Police we talked to there say that one person was reported to have left on foot northbound afterward while a vehicle described as a green SUV – in which the shooter reportedly was riding – headed south.

What’s believed to be that vehicle has turned up in downtown White Center, on 16th south of Roxbury, but police are still looking for the person believed to have been driving. We’ll update with anything else we find out about this incident.

All that happened as we were putting together a roundup with other reports from the inbox, so on with those:

CAR PROWL ON VIDEO: Mike‘s surveillance camera caught what happened early Monday morning on the street outside his home in the 6300 block of 41st SW:

Mike is a firefighter and says the thief/thieves “got some of my Firefighting gear. Brand new boots (still in the box) and gloves worth about 500. Some DVDs.”

ANOTHER CAR PROWL: Bill says this happened last night near 41st and Barton in Upper Fauntleroy:

After removing Christmas tree from car at 8:30 pm 12/14, I forgot to lock the vehicle. Approximately at 1 am on 12/15, just before going to bed, I was in the kitchen getting a drink. I looked out to where my car was parked, I noticed a pick-up truck suspiciously parked in the middle of the street next to my vehicle. I went out to my car noticed that the driver side door was ajar, and the contents of my glove compartment and middle console compartment were dumped on the seats. Some personal items, a pair of Nike sunglasses ($75) and a tray of coins/change < $5.00. The prowler sped off when he saw me, but I got a pretty good look at the vehicle and have reported its description to the police.

CAR PROWL/HOUSE BREAK-IN CONCERN: Mia at 42nd and Findlay writes, “Over this past weekend, we experienced our 3rd car break-in (we’ve also had a couple home break-ins in the past 5 years). Fortunately, we didn’t have any valuables inside the car, but we’re very worried that we are being watched, or, rather, there is a very shady crew combing our streets on a regular basis.”

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Mioposto in Admiral: Welcoming a new West Seattle Blog sponsor
December 15, 2015 2:51 pm
|      9 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle restaurants

Today we welcome a new WSB sponsor, Mioposto. Here’s what this new West Seattle restaurant would like you to know:

Mioposto – translated, “My Place” – is the new kid in the Admiral neighborhood. This wood-fired Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen on the corner of California & Walker offers up a warm, rustic, and inviting vibe with brick walls, massive wood beams, open kitchen, and eclectic Soho whimsy.

From its locally built wood-burning oven, Mio’s menu features soul-satisfying flavors from the Italian hearth. Handmade individual-size pizzas, Panini, and house-baked bread are born from their prized dough recipe created over two years. Seattle Times food critic Providence Cicero has awarded Mioposto three stars and describes their pizza as “These oven-blistered beauties have thin, foldable crusts, ballooning edges, and a bread-like chew.”

Mioposto is more than pizza, however. Their wood-burning oven is the heart of their open kitchen, which sports 14 comfortable ‘backed’ stools to watch the show.

From the fire come roasted Hood Canal Clams, Calamari Puttanesca, and roasted vegetables. A 12-ounce Rib Eye Steak with gorgonzola that is SO GOOD it should only be served on a Sunday (Mio offers it every day of the week). The Bresaola is sliced paper-thin and dressed with Corto extra-virgin olive oil, shaved Grana padano, and lemon. Their Melanzane is roasted and marinated eggplant, layered with fresh mozzarella, and drizzled with Mint Pesto.

Also, surprisingly from the Fire, Heat, and Smoke, comes their original Fire & Ice Cocktail with its smoked sweet vermouth ice and Woodinville Rye Whisky. And their house-made Limoncello (owner’s recipe) is the golden finish to your dining indulgence. Mioposto is family-friendly, drop-in-on-a-random-Tuesday dining. It’s a haven for those single diners who want to belly-up to the pizza bar, and for others wanting a “date night” dining experience, their lineup of handcrafted cocktails, wine, and beer assures it to be adult-friendly, too. Watch Seahawks, Mariners and Sounders while sipping on a Nitro Draft and enjoying their Ceci.

Owners Jeremy & Tiah Hardy state, “At Mio, we make food that’s meant to be shared. We envision a place where friends and family come together to indulge in great food & drink, rub elbows at the table, share stories and laugh loudly. If a wine glass gets knocked over, don’t worry about it!”

And about their new location, “We love West Seattle and have been waiting a long time to become part of this great neighborhood. We have great respect for the strong community culture here and are excited to contribute and make it our neighborhood.”

Mioposto ~ Wood Fired Pizzeria, Italian Kitchen & Bar – 2139 California Ave SW. Open 4 pm to 10 pm Sunday thru Thursday – open 4 pm to 11 pm Friday & Saturday – Happy Hours daily from 4 pm to 6 pm – miopostopizza.com.

We thank Mioposto for sponsoring independent, community-collaborative neighborhood news via WSB; find our current sponsor team listed in directory format here, and find info on joining the team by going here.

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West Seattle development: 6 notes, from Admiral to Highland Park
December 15, 2015 12:33 pm
|    Comments Off on West Seattle development: 6 notes, from Admiral to Highland Park
 |   Development | West Seattle news

Six development-related notes from around West Seattle:

NEXT DESIGN REVIEW MEETING SET: Aegis Living‘s proposed assisted-living center at 4700 SW Admiral Way goes back to the Southwest Design Review Board on February 4th (6:30 pm at the Sisson Building). It’s on the boards for 81 units, 36 parking spaces, and the proposal page now mentions “removal of an exceptional tree” (although a report just added to the project file today puts the tree in question just below the “exceptional” threshold). This will be the project’s second meeting before the Southwest Design Review Board; the last one was in July.

Meantime, the permit/application pace is picking up, perhaps the pre-holiday rush – a few of note:

5029 DELRIDGE WAY SW: Early-stage proposal to demolish a single-family house and garage and replace it with four single-family houses and a duplex.

7329 BAINBRIDGE PL. SW: Early-stage proposal for six rowhouse units – a fourplex and a duplex.

1706 ALKI SW: The application is officially in for this teardown-to-seven-townhouse proposal we mentioned in August, so watch for the official comment period to open.

7717 HIGHLAND PARK WAY SW: The application is also officially in – with comment period ahead – for this teardown-to-five-single-family-house proposal we first mentioned three months ago.

MORGAN JUNCTION LOT SPLIT: Lots of lot splits in the city files right now but 6504 44th SW is somewhat high-profile – it’s right behind the Morgan Junction building that’s home to five businesses on the southwest corner of California and Fauntleroy. It’s proposed for splitting into two parcels, 7,332 sq. ft. and 5,668 sq. ft., with “existing structures to be removed.” No official plan on the books yet for what will replace them; the location is zoned single-family. Comments are being taken through Sunday (December 20th); here’s how to comment.

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