month : 11/2016 318 results

West Seattle Realty: Welcome, new WSB sponsor

We’re welcoming West Seattle Realty to the WSB sponsor team today. Here’s what they want you to know about their business:

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(From left: Christine Mayes, Tracy Kipp, Shelby White, Karen Whorton, Hayley Martin Hampton)

You belong in our neighborhood. West Seattle Realty welcomes you to the warmth and comfort of community here. We’re a homegrown agency with highly engaged local leadership. Shelby White, owner and founding broker, started the business in 2006 based on his affinity for the culture and values of this stunningly beautiful, down-to-earth place. In fact, the whole team of brokers and staff at the agency are devoted, long-term residents.

Whether you are looking for a new home or getting ready to sell the one you live in now, West Seattle Realty is ready to help. We take pleasure in making the process easier. Our knowledge base and professional network span the whole peninsula of West Seattle as well as White Center, Burien, Georgetown, South Park, and Beacon Hill. We know the terrain and character of each area on a block-by-block basis.

Give us a call – 206-935-0503 – or come by for a cup of coffee at our office in The Admiral District, 2641 42nd Ave SW.

We thank West Seattle Realty 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.

NEW WEST SEATTLE BUSINESS: Community General Store

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Meet Nancy and Kristin. They e-mailed to let us know they have opened a new business at 5214 Delridge Way SW, the Community General Store, starting part time, expecting to go full time in February or March. No, it’s not a retail shop:

We are a community center and library of things to support members in living life with more joy and less waste. Membership allows you access to a collection of useful and beautiful things that are wonderful to use but hard to store: outdoor gear, things for raising young children, food dehydrators, mending kits, boot polish and simple repair, and also a collection of local, handmade art.

Additionally, any time our doors are open, we’re hosting events. Right now we’re really enjoying Make and Mend, where we share basic sewing tools and encourage each other’s various projects. When our kitchen opens up later this winter, we’re excited for Cook and Play, an event where you learn kitchen skills (we’ll explore fermentation, bread and snack making, local food, various low-impact eating plans and more!) while your kids hang out and play.

For starters, they are offering “family-friendly neighborhood events” on Tuesdays: “Make and mend, cook and play, walk and gather: 9 am-12:30 pm Tuesday mornings, 3 pm-4:35 pm Tuesday afternoons in November and December,” plus a Family Movie Night at 5:30 pm (updated) December 16th. Find out more about their plans and programs at thecommunitygeneralstore.com.

WEST SEATTLE TO STANDING ROCK: Here’s what happened when donation-drive organizers got there

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One month after two West Seattleites announced a donation drive for the Water Protectors led by the Standing Rock Sioux, Giles Stanton and Cathy Morgan are back from their Thanksgiving-week run to North Dakota, and just sent a wrapup report and photos:

The two days and nights we were at the Oceti Sakowin Camp (connected to both Rosebud and Sacred Stone Camps) saw their first snowfall of the season — it was numbingly cold though nothing compared with the weather yet to come. But, thanks to all of you, they now have a better chance at comfortably enduring the coming prairie winter. Giles helped construct an expansion to their main Donation / Supply Tent and Cathy applied her newfound donation-sorting skills to the profusion of items pouring in daily.

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The packed cargo van of West Seattle donations was gratefully swallowed up into the organized ocean of useful winter goods and flowed right back out into the hands of long-term supporters fortifying themselves against the cold.

The Go Fund Me campaign has already been very successful — thank you! Once we have the cargo van’s gas totals collected and reimbursed, we’ll send all the unspent dollars back to the camp to buy whatever they need by then.

The trip, and this entire experience, has been immensely powerful and eye-opening. A truly international network is engaged in alliance at Standing Rock; the sign post and a tour of license plates and handmade banners reveals the scope of the community on the ground. We are humbled by your generosity and inspired by the unflagging energy and commitment on active display all over the camp.

Cathy & Giles

Previous reports:
Ready to leave (last Tuesday)
Donation drive, 2 weeks in (November 13th)
First update (November 6th)
Donation drive announced (October 29th)

WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Bike theft on video

That video is from Doug, showing the theft of his bicycle in North Delridge this morning:

I put the bike on the roof in my driveway at 25th and Brandon [map], then went inside for about 15 minutes. Not smart, obviously! When I came out to load my son into his car seat, I realized it was gone. The thief was visible on the edge of the security video frame for about a minute and a half shortly after I went inside the house, then approached the car with a pen light in his mouth. It took him about 3 minutes to get the bike off of the roof.

I carpool with my wife in the morning, but this is my main mode of transportation home in the evenings. It’s worth a lot financially and sentimentally as I put it together over many months this spring, picking out each part one at a time.

It’s an orange Soma Wolverine, size large steel frame. Drop handlebars, disc brakes, brown leather saddle (Fizik brand, but no logo – I glued the leather cover on myself), dynamo front hub with dynamo lights front and rear, 8 speed internally geared rear hub, extra wide tires and full black fenders, plus a rear rack. It’s a very distinctive bike. I’d appreciate it if everyone could keep an eye out.

Police incident number is 16-428111. And I should note that two officers arrived within 10 minutes and took this very seriously. A huge thanks to SPD!

TRAFFIC/TRANSIT TODAY: Back to work/school Monday

November 28, 2016 6:30 am
|    Comments Off on TRAFFIC/TRANSIT TODAY: Back to work/school Monday
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

(SDOT MAP with travel times/video links; is the ‘low bridge’ closed? LOOK HERE)

(Click any view for a close-up; more cameras on the WSB Traffic page)

6:30 AM: Good morning. Back to work, school, and regular transit schedules as we start the post-Thanksgiving week.

SPOKANE ST. PROJECT: The work on and around surface Spokane St. east of the low bridge continues this week – here’s the official flyer with the newest details.

LOOKING AHEAD: There’s talk the weather might get wintrier next week. MIGHT – but still, you might consider taking a look at SDOT‘s winter-weather info THIS week, just so you’re up to speed.

FREE: Muay Thai fundamentals for ages 10+ @ Elite Brazilian Jiu-jitsu of Seattle

November 28, 2016 12:29 am
|    Comments Off on FREE: Muay Thai fundamentals for ages 10+ @ Elite Brazilian Jiu-jitsu of Seattle
 |   Delridge | Health | West Seattle news

Just got word of this free seminar next Sunday at Elite Brazilian Jiu-jitsu of Seattle (WSB sponsor):

Join us for a free seminar introducing you to the fundamentals of Muay Thai, a martial art developed hundreds of years ago as a form of close-combat that utilizes the entire body as a weapon. It’s also known as the deadly art of 8 limbs (hands, elbows, knees, and feet).

This seminar is free to the public. Come get a great workout, and learn some basic techniques, while having fun.

Ages 10+ (under 18 must be accompanied by parent/guardian)

Space is limited so go here to register ASAP!

Although the seminar is free, we do suggest a donation to the following crowdfunding campaign: crowdrise.com/michelles-battle-with-lung-cancer

Elite BJJ is at 5050 Delridge Way SW.

Memorial service December 9th for Andy Nelson, 1920-2016

Viewing, burial, and memorial dates are set for Andrew “Andy” L. Nelson, 95, and his family is sharing this remembrance with the community:

Andrew (Andy) Louis Nelson climbed his last mountain on Wednesday, November 23rd (just shy of his 96th birthday), at The Kenney in West Seattle. Andy was born in Seattle on December 10, 1920, to George Gedeon Nelson and Bertha Amelia Lindfors Nelson. Andy’s grandfather Andrew Nelson was a Swedish immigrant and pioneer in the Juanita area who built the Juanita School and the Modern Woodman Hall (Juanita Community Church). The Nelson family home, built by Andy’s grandfather at 100th NE & NE 132nd, was torn down in the 1970’s to make way for an Albertson’s grocery store.

Even at a young age Andy was an outdoor guy; he loved scouting and the mountains. There is some evidence that he even won a 1934 Seattle Model Sailboat Race at Green Lake.

Andy graduated from Lincoln High School in 1939 and then attended the University of Washington, graduating in 1943 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics. Having served in the UW ROTC program (Sept 1942), Andy entered the Army Air Corps as a 2nd Lieutenant in February 1944.

Andy served as an Electronics Officer during WWII instructing pilots on navigation systems. He was awarded the Asiatic Pacific Theatre Ribbon; America Theatre Ribbon; World War II Victory Medal as well as numerous commendations. Towards the end of WWII Andy was promoted to 1st Lieutenant. After his discharge from the Army, Andy was advised that as a Mathematics teacher he would not earn much money and he enrolled at the UW for a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering.

Andy’s business career was at Boeing as an Engineer writing technical manuals for aeronautical applications.

As an Eagle Scout (1937), Andy gave back to the community in so many ways. He was a Life Member of the Mountaineers, Life Member of the UW Alumni Association (Go Dawgs!), Boy Scouts of America Troop #282 Leader (recognized for his over 60 years in scouting), West Seattle Lions Club, West Side Presbyterian Church and an all-around wilderness adventurer who shared his love of hiking and mountain climbing (he climbed Mt Rainier twice) with many. Andy “walked the walk; talked the talk” when it came to understanding the environmental issues in keeping “the great outdoors” great.

While Andy had no children of his own, his wife, the late Doris Isabella Powell Halliday Nelson, presented him with a family of stepchildren, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, all who thoroughly enjoyed him. Doris and Andy spent many years traveling throughout the world – from Elder Hostels and UW trips across America to Europe to Australia; Antarctica; the Arctic; Africa; Asia; Central & South America, etc.

Andy is survived by his step-daughter Diane Halliday Longyear of Elko, Nevada, and her son Rick Longyear (also of Elko) and children/grandchildren; the children & family of her son Robert (deceased) Longyear; nephew William R. Powell of Chehalis; nieces Bonny Powell Taylor of Kent; Patricia Powell McGuire (Joe) of Manchester; and their families consisting of great- & great-great-nephews and -nieces.

The family would also like to acknowledge and thank longtime friends Gary Benson; Warren McKinstry; Paul Smith; Rev. Ron Rice; Stacy St. John; Ron Burke; and Bill Hart for their friendship, rides, stories, etc. We so appreciate your friendship with Andy and your stories! And a special thank you to all the past Troop 282 members. Last, but not certainly least, is a special thank you for the wonderful staff at The Kenney/Lincoln Vista and the Kline Galland Hospice – what a wonderful group of caring individuals!

The family requests that in lieu of flowers and in keeping with Andy’s pattern of giving, contributions in his memory to any of the following organizations would be appreciated: The Seattle Council Boy Scouts of America; West Seattle Senior Center; West Seattle Food Bank; Southwest Seattle Historical Museum; The Kenney Foundation; The Nordic Museum; or The Mountaineers.

A viewing will be held on December 1st from 11 am – 1 pm at Forest Lawn Funeral Home with military graveside service at 2 pm at Evergreen Washelli. Memorial service on December 9th at 11 am at West Side Presbyterian Church with reception to follow. Please visit forestlawn-seattle.com.

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

West Seattle Crime Watch: Stolen pickup; stolen package; 3 car prowls

Five reader reports in West Seattle Crime Watch:

STOLEN PICKUP TRUCK: From Carrie:

Our 1989 Toyota long-bed, charcoal-gray pickup has been stolen. It has tinted windows, in good shape, a large stainless attached lock box (although they may have removed it already). Last parked on Walnut, 3200 block. License Plate C23495G.

PACKAGE THEFT: Just in from Paul:

I wanted to inform you of a stolen item off of our doorstep in Sunrise Heights.

The ski bindings (Marker Griffon 13 ID, 110mm, black) were delivered via UPS from Backcountry.com and dropped on our doorstep on 23.Nov at 12:36 pm (per the UPS tracking info). We had already left town for Thanksgiving. Between the delivery time and when we arrived home on 27.Nov at 12:30 pm, someone had opened the package and stole the item from the box. They left the empty box on our doorstep.

Ironically, I had texted our neighbor to pick up the box but they were not at home. So I knew I was taking a risk – unfortunately the gamble didn’t pay off.

CAR PROWL #1: Anonymous report:

Between Hudson and Dawson on 41st Ave SW. We left the neighborhood for a day or two on the Thanksgiving weekend and returned to a ransacked car. The villain tossed the whole car, but it looks like they were looking for something other than tissues, papers, pens, grocery bags and Bed Bath and Beyond coupons. No damage to locks or ignition. Looking for weed, perhap? Good luck with THAT!

CAR PROWL #2: Bradi reports a car prowl at 30th/Roxbury. Only one thing taken – a towel branded with the defunct Feedback Lounge’s logo.

CAR PROWL #3: Also earlier this holiday weekend, from Kirstin: “My car was also broken into … in the 3600 block of 48th Ave. Sunglasses, first aid kit, and a trunk full of stuff I was going to take to the Salvation Army truck.

YOU CAN HELP: What’s needed for the Closet at Chief Sealth International High School

Here’s a chance to include local students in your holiday-season giving:

Chief Sealth International High School is looking for some donations for its Closet which is stocked with school supplies, toiletries, clothing, and a food pantry for students in need. We’re hoping that as you shop the holiday sales, you might consider picking up and donating these items for the Closet:

* Women’s and Men’s underwear — all sizes Small – XXL and preferably boxer briefs for the men

* Women’s and Men’s socks — no-show and crew-style athletic socks, men’s dress socks, as well as fun and just plain everyday socks

* Plain white undershirts — all sizes

We can always use new or gently used:

* T-shirts and long-sleeve t-shirts

* Hoodies

* Athletic shorts and pants (these items don’t stay on our shelves long!)

* Warm winter coats

* Men’s suits in black, gray, or dark blue

You can drop by donations at the school’s front office anytime during the week, 8:30 am -4:30 pm. If you have any questions, please contact Lisa Conley at lisalconley@hotmail.com.

Thank you! We’re grateful to our generous West Seattle community for its support of our students.

Sealth is at 2600 SW Thistle; the main entrance is up the stairs across the driveway from the northwest end of the parking lot.

West Seattle whale-watching: Orca sightings

Thanks for the sighting reports via e-mail and text: Orcas have passed Alki Point and are headed southbound!

WEST SEATTLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: Menashe Family display gets a boost from Seattle Fire Department Ladder 11

November 27, 2016 1:03 pm
|    Comments Off on WEST SEATTLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: Menashe Family display gets a boost from Seattle Fire Department Ladder 11
 |   Holidays | West Seattle Christmas lights | West Seattle news

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(WSB photos by Patrick Sand)

West Seattle’s brightest Christmas lights, at the Menashe Family house (5605 Beach Drive SW), are going up right now, and got a boost today from the Junction-based crew of the Seattle Fire Department‘s Ladder 11.

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Talk about a tree topper!

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The big star that goes atop an ever-taller evergreen went up with the help of L11’s firefighters, much to the delight of onlookers of all ages. The Menashes tell us they’re planning to have the full display up by Thursday night (December 1st).

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Santa Claus will be visiting again this year too – on Saturday, December 17th, bring a donation for the West Seattle Food Bank and take your photo with Santa under the lights, 6 pm-10 pm.

HAPPENING NOW: Pathfinder K-8’s legendary handmade wreaths on sale

November 27, 2016 11:54 am
|    Comments Off on HAPPENING NOW: Pathfinder K-8’s legendary handmade wreaths on sale
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

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Thanks to the Pathfinder K-8 School wreath crew for sending the photo of Cole and Sadie, with this report:

Pathfinder is kicking off their annual wreath sale at the West Seattle Farmers’ Market today! All proceeds of these handmade, locally sourced wreaths go to help fund outdoor-education programs at Pathfinder K-8. Come on down and get into the holiday spirit! We’ll be here until 2 pm today.

As usual, you’ll find them on the southwest corner of California and Alaska. If you miss them today – they’ll be back 10 am-2 pm the next two Sundays, December 4th and 11th – OR you can order a wreath online by going here.

P.S. We’ll be updating this info in the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide – if you’re selling wreaths or trees, having a holiday bazaar/concert/activity/celebration that’s open to the public, etc., please be sure we have YOUR info too – editor@westseattleblog.com – thank you!

Remembering Doreen Hammond, 1928-2016

The family of Doreen Gretchen (Mallory) Hammond, 88, is sharing this remembrance with the community:

Doreen Gretchen Hammond, a lifelong resident of West Seattle, was born September 4, 1928 in Seattle. Doreen passed away November 19, 2016 in West Seattle, her home for 88 years. Doreen was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, mother-in-law, cousin, and friend. Doreen graduated from West Seattle High School in 1946. She was preceded in death by husband Harry Lloyd Hammond of Black Diamond; parents Dillon and Margaret Mallory; and her son Hal Jeffrey Hammond of Seattle. Surviving are daughter, Pamela Jean Hammond Miller (John); 3 grandchildren, Jason A Miller (April), Gretchen R Miller, and Brian Jeffrey Hammond (Natalie), all of Seattle; 6 great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law Margaret Hammond; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Hers was a Masonic family, with father, husband, son, and son-in-law either or both Masters or members of West Seattle Lodge 152 F&AM and the Nile Shrine. Doreen was a lifetime member and Past President of the American Legion Auxiliary Post #160 in West Seattle; many Masonic orders including 50 years at Chapter #241, Order of Eastern Star in Belfair. She and her husband resided in retirement at a summer home on Mason Lake. She was a “Masonic wife” with all that entailed, as the men in her life ran the chairs to WM at Alki Lodge in West Seattle and WP in Belfair Chapter 241 OES. Doreen was also a member of Daughters of the Nile and Ahmes. Her father, husband, son, and daughter all retired from the Seattle Engineering Department.

Remembrances may be made in Doreen’s name to the American Heart Association or a charity of your choice. By her request, there will be no memorial service; arrangements by Howden-Kennedy Funeral Home in West Seattle.

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

Door-to-door solicitors? Here are the rules

The holiday season seems to have brought an uptick in door-to-door soliciting in West Seattle – we’ve received several messages with concerns/questions in the past few days, like this one from Mark in Gatewood:

We had three separate attempts for solicitation over a two-hour period starting just after dark. We did not answer, but could see it was two men. Loud, insistent knocking.

We later called a neighbor who answered and were told they said they were from CenturyLink.

I know there have been other reports in the past about them, just wanted to give a heads up in case others were concerned or worried.

Very disconcerting. Amazing to think that any reputable company would send its employees out like that, after dark on a Friday night.

That’s the most common report we’ve been getting, but others have mentioned people trying to sell magazines. We have no way of telling you whether the person at your door is or is not legit, but here are some of the major rules about door-to-door selling in Seattle, which we recap every few months when the inquiries start peaking again:

*Door-to-door (residential) selling is allowed between 8 am-9 pm.

*The entity for whom the seller is working has to have a license, and the seller (agent) must have ID showing the license and the agent’s name: “All licensees and agents shall conspicuously display on their outer clothing their residential sales license or residential sales agent licenses when selling.” If you choose to open the door, ask to see it immediately: “Each residential seller or agent shall, immediately upon contacting the prospective buyer, disclose to the prospective buyer his/her name, company, and the product or service represented.”

*Solicitors are required to honor a “no soliciting” sign if you have one. Whether you do or don’t, they’re also required to honor this part of the code: “If requested to do so, (the agent) shall leave the premises immediately.”

Read the full set of rules by going here.. And note the city says they don’t apply to sellers of “newspapers, or fresh or perishable food items”; nor is a license required for a person who turns up at your door seeking charity donations.

If you do buy something from a solicitor, you have cancellation rights.

Wrapping up the holiday weekend on your West Seattle Sunday

November 27, 2016 7:02 am
|    Comments Off on Wrapping up the holiday weekend on your West Seattle Sunday
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

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(Harlequin duck, photographed by Mark Wangerin)

It’s the quiet conclusion to the Thanksgiving weekend, but we do have a few things to mention for today. First, from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide:

BUY YOUR PANCAKE BREAKFAST TICKET(S): Next Saturday (December 3rd) is a BIG day of holiday fun, and you’ll want to be fortified by starting your day at the Kiwanis Club of West Seattle Pancake Breakfast. Buy your ticket(s) in advance TODAY at their West Seattle Farmers’ Market booth, at the south end of the market, on California just north of Alaska.

DUWAMISH NATIVE HOLIDAY-GIFT FAIR: It’s the final day of this don’t-miss holiday event at the Duwamish Tribe Longhouse, 10 am-4 pm, free, all ages. Buy directly from Native artists/craftspersons. Snacks/beverages available too. (4705 W. Marginal Way SW)

And from our year-round West Seattle Event Calendar:

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: Fresh vegetables, fruit, and much more – every Sunday year-round, 10 am-2 pm. (California SW between Oregon and Alaska)

DONATE BOOKS: One more reason to stop by the mentioned-earlier Kiwanis Club booth at the market – this book-donation drive – last dropoff day today.

FOLK/AMERICANA MUSIC: Rocky Tallent performs at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 3-5 pm. (5612 California SW)

ALL-AGES OPEN MICROPHONE: Free, all-ages, at The Skylark, 4-7 pm – details here. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

SPORTS: Chief Sealth IHS Basketball Jamboree showcases 13 teams

November 26, 2016 11:55 pm
|    Comments Off on SPORTS: Chief Sealth IHS Basketball Jamboree showcases 13 teams
 |   West Seattle news | WS & Sports

High-school basketball season starts next week, and all three local high schools got a jump on it today.

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The occasion: Chief Sealth International High School‘s 16th annual Basketball Jamboree. 13 teams participated, each playing two opponents in two-quarter games. We dropped in for the last two varsity games (JV had a full slate too) – above, West Seattle High School vs. Seattle Lutheran High School; below are the two teams’ #2 jersey wearers, Saints sophomore Simon Solomon and Wildcats junior Kendall Green:

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West Seattle went home with wins in both of its games, including the day’s closing faceoff with host Sealth:

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Below are Sealth’s Peyton Dickerson (with the ball) and West Seattle senior Yusuf Mohamed:

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All three local schools have season openers in the week ahead, according to their online calendar:
*WSHS hosts Mountlake Terrace at 7:15 pm Tuesday
*Sealth hosts Rainier Beach at 8:30 pm Friday
*SeaLu plays at Friday Harbor next Friday.

UPDATE: ‘Heavy rescue’ call in Fauntlee Hills

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(WSB photos by Patrick Sand)

9:39 PM: A big Seattle Fire “heavy rescue” is headed to the 8800 block of 41st SW in Fauntlee Hills (map), for a report of a “car on its side with people trapped.” More shortly.

9:58 PM: Photo added. Most SFD units were canceled shortly after dispatch but others remain, with police.

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10:07 PM: 41st SW is blocked by the crash scene, which is on a residential street. We are told the man driving the car was the only person in it; he will be going to a hospital by private ambulance to be checked out. He hit a parked car, police tell us.

UPDATE: 8-hour power outage after crash in northeast West Seattle

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(WSB photo, added 6:51 pm: At left, vehicle – being towed – that hit pole)

5:59 PM: Thanks for the tips: Power is out in parts of northeast West Seattle, and apparently it’s not all shown on the outage map, which now shows 15 customers out in Pigeon Point/North Delridge – at and near Delridge/Andover – but we’ve also heard from Victoria in Riverside, who says “we are out down here too,” on 16th and 17th SW. This is likely related to a crash in the 4500 block of West Marginal Way SW that another texter says involved a vehicle hitting a utility/light pole – we’re checking on that. If you’re also out of power but NOT on the City Light map, please let us know in comments (after you’ve called SCL to let them know your outage is not showing – 206-684-3000).

6:04 PM: Now the map is updated to 356 homes/businesses out of power. Adding a screengrab.

6:51 PM: Just back from the crash scene, which is on the east side of West Marginal Way SW – affecting the northbound lanes – just north of the Duwamish Longhouse. The pole was snapped in two and dangling; the vehicle that hit it was about to be towed. Adding photo. Meanwhile, some have the power back – the count is down to 288 on the SCL map. One crew was at the scene and reported to be calling for more help.

7:39 PM: As reminded by commenters, this is affecting some traffic signals too – if you arrive at one that’s not working, that makes it an all-way stop – do NOT go through without stopping.

9:23 PM: The SCL map has now recalibrated the restoration guesstimate to “pending,” which seems in line with what commenter Amy found out.

11:56 PM: The outage is now in its seventh hour, with the current potential restoration time estimated around (corrected) 4 am. (Let us know if you’re back sooner!)

1:52 AM: And after about eight hours, the outage is over.

PUBLIC SAFETY SURVEY: Last call

We’ve mentioned the Seattle Public Safety Survey several times since it went live more than a month ago. It’s designed to find out what you think about crime, safety, and policing in your neighborhood. And for 11 West Seattle neighborhoods, a key component is the micro-community policing plan:

Westwood-Roxhill-Arbor Heights
The Junction
South Delridge
Pigeon Point
North Delridge
North Admiral
Morgan Junction
High Point
Highland Park
Fauntleroy
Alki

(added) South Park is in the Southwest Precinct area, too, so here is its MCPP plan.

Those are all PDFs, obtained from Jennifer Burbridge, the Seattle University researcher who’s been working with the Southwest Precinct for more than a year. But you don’t have to be in a neighborhood with a plan (those without one likely don’t have organized community groups with which SPD could work on a plan) to answer the survey. Burbridge says they are hoping for thousands more replies before the survey’s scheduled close next Wednesday (November 30th), to better chronicle neighborhoods’ crime/safety/policing concerns. If you can spare a bit of time, go to publicsafetysurvey.org; you’ll find links to the survey in seven languages.

HAPPENING NOW: Shop Small Saturday around West Seattle

November 26, 2016 12:40 pm
|    Comments Off on HAPPENING NOW: Shop Small Saturday around West Seattle
 |   Holidays | West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

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12:40 PM: Alki Beach was our first stop on a spot-check of local small businesses as this year’s Shop Small Saturday continues. Coastal Boutique at 58th SW and Alki Ave, to be specific. Lots of beach gear – even if you’re going to a faraway beach (swimwear is always in stock, but hard to find elsewhere this time of year. But popular items include apparel at the other end of the weather spectrum, like this “commuter jacket” from Mia Melon:

Next – we’re headed to Admiral, The Junction, and Morgan Junction!

ADDED 1:25 PM: Alki Bike and Board is one of your potential Shop Small Saturday stops in Admiral, on California just south of Admiral Way:

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That’s Will with one of the hybrid electric bikes in stock at AB&B. We continued southbound to The Junction, where Menashe and Sons Jewelers (4532 California SW; WSB sponsor) proprietor Jack Menashe paused to pose with Father Christmas, one of the shop’s many unique Christmas decorations:

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Christmas decorations, you’re probably well aware, are a big thing for the Menashe family. Meantime, The Junction is decked with garlands, and the sidewalks bustled during a break in the rain. We stopped at toy store Curious Kidstuff (4740 California SW), where proprietor Ann Walker pointed out that their selection of books just keeps expanding:

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Outside CKS, we happened onto one of West Seattle’s most famous parents, County Executive Dow Constantine, with daughter Sabrina, out shopping and dining – which reminds us: Some local eating/drinking spots are having Shop Small Saturday specials too (some are on the list that the West Seattle Junction Association put together for today).

ADDED 1:53 PM: Just heard from co-proprietor Lori McConnell at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) – they’re offering 10 percent off today, among other things.

ADDED 2:52 PM: Now, to Morgan Junction, which has an increasingly thriving retail area. We stopped by the south end, where you’ll find My Three Little Birds (6959 California SW; WSB sponsor). Lots of kid stuff here including Seahawks-fan gear for even the tiniest 12s:

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M3LB is having a BOGO-half-off sale today. A short distance north, you’ll also find sales at Second Gear Sports (6529 California SW; WSB sponsor). And again, all of the above is only a sampling of Shop Small Saturday – you still have a few hours to get out to your favorite local indie businesses (or discover new ones!) – and they’ll be happy to see you all season/year long, too.

HAPPENING NOW: Duwamish Longhouse Native Holiday-Gift Fair, day 2

November 26, 2016 11:34 am
|    Comments Off on HAPPENING NOW: Duwamish Longhouse Native Holiday-Gift Fair, day 2
 |   West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

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(WSB photos)

The beautiful Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center in West Seattle is hosting the annual Native Holiday-Gift Fair right now – second of three days – with artists and craftspersons set up in both the main hall (above) and the lobby/display area (below):

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Many items are wearable – including these shoes and hats by Ben and Gerry:

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Among the artists selling their work is John Romero:

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(You might recall his mural in last year’s Duwamish Revealed project.)

The gift fair is on until 4 pm today and again 10 am-4 pm tomorrow. You can park free at the longhouse – enter from its north side at 4705 West Marginal Way SW – with overflow parking at the city parks across the street.

Shop Small Saturday in West Seattle! And what else is up today/tonight

November 26, 2016 7:31 am
|    Comments Off on Shop Small Saturday in West Seattle! And what else is up today/tonight
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

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(Northern Flicker, photographed by Mark Wangerin)

Long holiday weekend, day 3! First, from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide:

SHOP SMALL SATURDAY: Today’s the day for holiday shopping at your local independent small businesses all around the peninsula. Many have sales and specials.

*HUGE list of Shop Small Saturday plans in The Junction, compiled by the West Seattle Junction Associationsee it all here.

*Meeples Games (WSB sponsor) continues its big sale and food drive today. (3727 California SW)

*Shop Small Saturday/5th Anniversary Sale continues @ Thunder Road Guitars (4736 California SW; WSB sponsor)

*Spend $100, get $25 gift card for future purchases – and it goes up from there! – today only @ Emerald Water Anglers (42nd SW/ SW Oregon; WSB sponsor)

*Discounts throughout the store at Second Gear Sports (WSB sponsor) including 25% off new adult bikes from Evo and Diamondback (in stock only) and 15% off any ordered bikes from Diamondback; bring nonperishable food for West Seattle Food Bank & get 10% off. (6529 California SW)

*Also in Morgan Junction, My Three Little Birds (WSB sponsor) is having a BOGO 1/2 off sale, plus refreshments for shoppers. (6959 California SW)

*On Alki, shop at Coastal, where “pretty much the entire store is 20 percent off” and new Alki Beach gear is in stock. (2532 Alki SW)

Again, that’s just who we’ve heard from … go shop your favorite local stores today and every day and help strengthen your community.

Meantime, more holiday happenings:

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(Added 7:51 am – morning rainbow, photographed by James Tilley)

HOLIDAY BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER: New event! The Seattle Civic Dance Theatre promises food, a dance concert with our company and cast members, and a visit from Santa with a chance for families to take pictures with him (bring your cameras). We welcome the community to join us to kick off the holiday season and help us raise money for performance costs and our scholarship fund. 10 am, West Seattle Christian Church. $15 for adults, $10 for kids (under 2 is free). More information here. (42nd SW/SW Genesee)

DUWAMISH LONGHOUSE NATIVE HOLIDAY-GIFT FAIR: Day 2 for this year’s Duwamish Native Holiday-Gift Fair at the Duwamish Tribe Longhouse, 10 am-4 pm each day, free, all ages. “Buy directly from native artists and craftpersons; unique gifts in every price range – fine art, Native crafts, regalia, cards, jewelry, T-shirts, smoked salmon, and more.” Snacks too. Free admission and parking for shoppers. (4705 W. Marginal Way SW)

WEST SEATTLE LIGHTS: 5-10 pm is tonight’s schedule for the West Seattle Lights music-synched light show. Taking donations again this year for the West Seattle Food Bank and Northwest Parkinson’s Foundation. (3908 SW Charlestown)

WEST SEATTLE YULETIDE: Third night for this music-synched light show, 5:30-10 pm. (4120 38th SW)

HOLIDAY MUSIC: It’s the Gary Benson Christmas Show at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

And from our regular year-round calendar and inbox:

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(Added 7:51 am – sunrise, photographed by Mark Bader)

BASKETBALL JAMBOREE AT SEALTH: Varsity and junior-varsity basketball teams from 13 schools are playing in the 16th annual Chief Sealth International High School Jamboree – schedules and ticket info in our preview – starting at 11 am, with JV in the Denny International Middle School Gym (2601 SW Kenyon) and varsity at Sealth. (2600 SW Thistle)

FIGG, THE PAPER DOLLS: Two bands live at Parliament Tavern, 9 pm. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

West Seattle wildlife: Rafting off Alki

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Thanks to Bob Spears for the photo of an unusual scene Friday off Alki. He explained, “Five seals hung out just offshore for over an hour and frequently appeared to be doing a water ballet with their heads, a single fin, and their tails out of the water. Fun to watch and with their barking they attached quite a crowd of people on the beach.” The behavior is known as “rafting,” most often seen among California sea lions, and sometimes people mistake it for a sign of distress – the Seal Sitters website has a good explanation here.