West Seattle, Washington

12 Saturday

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month : 04/2017 316 results

YOU CAN HELP! Volunteer at a Duwamish Alive! site next Saturday
April 15, 2017 5:59 pm
|      5 COMMENTS
 |   Environment | How to help | West Seattle news

image
(WSB photo by Leda Costa from last fall’s Duwamish Alive! work party at Herring’s House Park on the river)

One week from today, it’s the spring edition of the multi-site work party that does good deeds for the Duwamish River, its watershed, and all that depend on it – including you and your neighbors. Next Saturday (April 22nd) is Duwamish Alive! – this year, coinciding with Earth Day – and it will begin with a 10 am celebration at the T-107 public-access site (4700 W. Marginal Way SW), featuring a welcome by Duwamish Tribe chair Cecile Hansen as well as remarks by Duwamish River Cleanup Coalition coordinator James Rasmussen and U.S. Reps. Pramila Jayapal and Adam Smith speaking. This year’s John Beal Environmental Stewardship Volunteer Awards will be presented, too.

T-107 is just one of the dozen-plus work-party locations that are looking for help 10 am-2 pm April 22nd. See the others here – many are in West Seattle; choose one where you’d like to go.

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West Seattle whale-watching: Transient orcas’ Saturday visit
April 15, 2017 2:02 pm
|      6 COMMENTS
 |   Seen at sea | West Seattle news | Wildlife


(Photos by Gary Jones)

2:02 PM: Just got two texts reporting orcas passing West Seattle! Both say the whales are transient orcas, southbound in the Alki Point vicinity.

2:45 PM: In the comment section, an update from Herongrrrl: “Closer to Lincoln Park” right now.

3:23 PM: Just added photos by Gary Jones from Alki/Alki Point vicinity earlier. (Orca Network says that’s a research boat with them, in the second photo.) Gary also sent this one with “harbor porpoises going the other way”:

3:55 PM: As of a few minutes ago, commenter SS says, they’re south of West Seattle and still headed SB.

6:20 PM: Donna Sandstrom of The Whale Trail shares info about the visitors in this comment. (By the way, The Whale Trail’s next event is coming up Thursday at the Dakota Place Park Building – find out about the increase in humpbacks and grays in Puget Sound!)

7:28 PM: Chris Frankovich says the orcas are headed back northbound, and shares this photo:

Chris says this shows them off The Arroyos.

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West Seattle Thriftway egg hunt proves fruitful for hundreds
April 15, 2017 12:53 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Fun stuff to do | Holidays | West Seattle news


(WSB photos by Patrick Sand)

This pre-Easter morning full of egg hunts began with the biggest one of all – the only one in our area with aisles of smiles – the West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor) egg hunt, with hundreds of hunters finding many ways to cruise around the store:

The Easter Bunny was there as always to offer a paw for a high-five:

The hunting continued, past the freezer cases …

And if you looked closely at the cracker boxes …

Eventually it was time for a break to see what was inside those eggs:

For a trip down the memory aisle – our coverage of the Thriftway egg hunt from the past eight years:
2016
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2009

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West Seattle weekend scene: Egg-hunting at Lincoln Park
April 15, 2017 12:18 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Fun stuff to do | Holidays | West Seattle news | West Seattle parks

This morning also brought the annual egg hunt at Lincoln Park‘s south meadow, presented by Eastridge Church, which has branches in The Junction and on the Eastside, each one presenting a hunt with 40,000 treat-filled eggs promised between the two. Sometimes, just a few are enough to make a little one stop and consider:

The Eastridge event also offered other activities for kids, including face-painting.

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West Seattle weekend scene: Egg-hunting @ High Point Community Center
April 15, 2017 12:08 pm
|    Comments Off on West Seattle weekend scene: Egg-hunting @ High Point Community Center
 |   Fun stuff to do | High Point | Holidays | West Seattle news

After our drippy winter and early spring – the sun was out in full force for this morning’s egg hunts. We photographed some of the younger egg-hunters at High Point Community Center – as they looked around the play equipment, and on the tennis court:

Egg-hunting equipment has gone far beyond Easter baskets – this young participant had a unique tote:

More egg-hunt coverage to come.

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West Seattle weekend scene: Alki egg-hunt overview, before and during
April 15, 2017 11:13 am
|    Comments Off on West Seattle weekend scene: Alki egg-hunt overview, before and during
 |   Fun stuff to do | Holidays | West Seattle news

It’s been a big morning full of egg hunts around West Seattle and we’re still out covering them. But first – a unique view of the Alki Community Center egg hunt, shared by Don Brubeck – first, above, the eggs are all out on the playfield … and then, kids get the go-ahead to go get them:

Alki is one of four city-run centers that had egg hunts this morning – we’ll have photos from High Point later (as well as two non-CC hunts), and we covered Hiawatha’s week-early hunt last Saturday. If you couldn’t get to any today, there are some tomorrow too, as listed on our Easter & More page.

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Egg hunts and so much more on the list for your West Seattle Saturday
April 15, 2017 6:03 am
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous


(Anna’s Hummingbird in flight, photographed by Mark Wangerin)

First – from the WSB Easter & More page:

WEST SEATTLE THRIFTWAY EGG HUNT: 9 am; indoors; free. (California/Fauntleroy/Morgan)

LI’L BUG STUDIO EGG HUNT: 9:15 am; indoors; $10 per child. (10007 13th SW)

COMMUNITY-CENTER EGG HUNTS: 10 am at Alki (5817 SW Stevens), Delridge (4501 Delridge Way SW), High Point (6920 34th SW), and Southwest (2801 SW Thistle) centers. Free.

LINCOLN PARK EGG HUNT: 11 am, presented again this year by Eastridge Church, in the south meadow. Free. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

WALK THE TIBBETTS LABYRINTH: 9 am-noon at Tibbetts United Methodist Church (WSB sponsor), you’re invited to walk the indoor labyrinth. (Entry through Fellowship Hall doorway off 41st and Andover)

SATURDAY SERVICES: See the list for churches, times, locations.

Now, from our calendar and previews:

FIRST WEEKEND FOR WEST SEATTLE WATER TAXI: This is the first weekend since the West Seattle Water Taxi went to its spring/summer schedule, which includes weekend service. See the schedule here.

APRIL POOLS DAY: Free and fun safety lessons and swimming at Southwest Pool, 10:30 am-noon. (2801 SW Thistle)

FREE SELF-DEFENSE CLASS: As previewed here, women and girls 10+ are invited to a free three-hour self-defense seminar today at Elite Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu of Seattle (WSB sponsor). Noon-3 pm; RSVP ASAP. Donations accepted (cash or check) to help New Beginnings. (5050 Delridge Way SW)

FREE KINDERMUSIK: 12:30 pm at My Three Little Birds (WSB sponsor). All kids welcome. (6959 California SW)

WINE TASTING AT WELCOME ROAD: The tasting room is open at Welcome Road Winery (WSB sponsor), 1-7 pm. (3804 California SW)

BIRDS OF THE DUWAMISH RIVER VALLEY: Free nature walk from the Duwamish Tribe Longhouse, 1-3 pm. (4705 W. Marginal Way SW)

WINE TASTING AT VISCON CELLARS: The tasting room is open at Viscon Cellars (WSB sponsor), 2-7 pm. (5910 California SW)

TALK WITH YOUR SCHOOL BOARD DIRECTOR: Leslie Harris, who represents West Seattle and South Park on the Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors, invites you to drop in and talk, 3-5 pm at Delridge Library. (5423 Delridge Way SW)

FOOD TASTING: 3-6 pm at Metropolitan Market (WSB sponsor) in Admiral, try roasted leg of lamb with mint. (41st/42nd/Admiral)

RAINBOW BINGO: Doors open at 5:30 pm at South Park Neighborhood Center for Rainbow Bingo benefiting the South Park Senior Center. Dinner included (served at 6 pm); cash prices; bingo (starting at 7 pm) called by Aunt Betty Malone; silent auction; beer, wine, jello shots and snacks for sale too. Cash-only event. 21+. Buy tickets online at spseniors.org or leave message at 206-767-2544. (8201 10th Ave. S.)

SECOND CHANCE PROM: 7 pm at West Seattle Golf Course – loved your prom? Hated it? Missed it? Here’s your second chance. It’s a fundraiser for the Ruby Room, which gets donated dresses and accessories to girls who otherwise can’t attend theirs. Lots more info in our calendar listing. (4600 35th SW)

‘THE DYBBUK’: Seattle Jewish Theater Company presents the classic “The Dybbuk” at Kenyon Hall, 7:30 pm. Details including reservation/ticket info are on the venue website.(7904 35th SW)

LIVE MUSIC TONIGHT: See our calendar for multiple venues!

P.S. We don’t know if any flyovers are planned, but …

SALUTE TO ARMED FORCES NIGHT @ THE SAFE: That’s the theme for tonight’s Mariners vs. Rangers game at Safeco Field, 6:10 pm, with pregame ceremonies starting at 5:30 pm. So if you happen to see military aircraft in the area early this evening – now you know.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Seaview package theft
April 14, 2017 10:35 pm
|      11 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Nik e-mailed to say that his security camera caught a package theft this afternoon – 2:21 pm in Seaview, near 47th and Graham. “He pretended to be a delivery driver and took our packages instead.” Nik says he was driving the “newer Nissan Maxima” in the photo. If you have any info, let police know – we’ll add Nik’s incident number when it’s available.

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Memorial gathering April 22 for Jennifer Jennings
April 14, 2017 9:54 pm
|      5 COMMENTS
 |   Obituaries | West Seattle news

Even if you didn’t know Jennifer Jennings, you might have seen her with her dog, out for a walk on Alki. Friends and family will gather on Saturday, April 22nd, to remember her, and are sharing this remembrance/invitation:

West Seattle lost its beloved Jennifer Jennings on March 22. She was 68.

She and her sweet little dog “Mr. Bean” walked along Alki Beach daily & could be found afterward amongst community at Tully’s Coffee across from the Alki Bathhouse.

Jennifer taught art classes for many years at the Alki Bathhouse and along with “Mr. Bean” was one of Alki’s & West Seattle’s adored locals.

Come celebrate her life with your stories & memories, along with “Mr. Bean,” at:

When: Saturday, April 22, 11:00 A.M.

Where: St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, 3050 California SW in West Seattle.

There will be a 2:00 P.M. reception at Tully’s Coffee @ Alki Beach, 2676 Alki SW, across from the Alki Bathhouse.

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

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EAST MARGINAL WAY: ‘Online open house’ seeking your comments on upcoming project
April 14, 2017 8:56 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Transportation | West Seattle news

It’s just east of West Seattle, but it’s an important route for many here, so we wanted to mention the “online open house” that SDOT has announced for the East Marginal Way Corridor Improvement Project. Until April 26th, it’s open for comments at eastmarginal.infocommunity.org, where you will see the options under consideration for the sections north and south of the West Seattle Bridge. Overall, SDOT says the project is intended to:

*Improve safety and reliability in the movement of people and goods

*Support freight loads by rebuilding the roadway

*Promote efficiency through signal modifications and intelligent transportation systems (ITS)

Improve safety by better separating non-motorized modes from freight traffic

The project page (which is separate from the “online open house”) shows that this is in the early planning stages, with construction not expected to start until 2020. If you scroll down that same page, you can also see the slide decks from recent presentations to various city-convened boards, if you’re looking for even more information.

P.S. Even if you don’t use East Marginal much, if at all, right now, that could change once Highway 99 construction is over and it reconnects to the downtown waterfront.

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West Seattle development: 3050 Avalon Way site work; updates on projects going to Southwest Design Review Board
April 14, 2017 5:13 pm
|      13 COMMENTS
 |   Development | West Seattle news

West Seattle development notes:

3050 SW AVALON WAY: More than nine months after a building permit was issued for a microhousing project at 3050 SW Avalon Way, the site is being cleared (the view above is from the alley on the north side of the site, looking south to Avalon). Last time we mentioned this site was when it was put up for sale in early 2016 (though its ownership has not changed, according to county records); before that, the microhousing proposal for the site – 104 units clustered around 14 shared kitchens – had been challenged by a neighborhood group, whose appeal was dismissed in October of 2015.

Also in development watch:

WHAT’S COMING UP AT DESIGN REVIEW: The schedule for the Southwest Design Review Board this spring just keeps getting busier. All of the following meetings are at their usual spot, the Sisson Building/Senior Center, 4217 SW Oregon.

First, the packet for next Thursday’s 6:30 pm review of 4754 Fauntleroy Way SW [map] is now on the city website in PDF (91 MB). This is the 7-story, 108-unit, 103-offstreet-parking-space mixed-use project on the site that formerly held the Capitol Loans pawn shop.

Also on the SWDRB agenda next Thursday (April 20th), at 8 pm, the next look at 4220 SW 100th in Arbor Heights [map], now described as eight townhouses and one live-work unit, with eight offstreet parking spaces. The design packet is here in PDF (46 MB).

We mentioned last month that the SWDRB will see 1250 Alki SW [map], now much-downsized to ~44 units, at 6:30 pm May 4th (here’s the official notice). An 8 pm review has been added for that night, for 4800 40th SW [map], which we mentioned a year ago had “re-activated for redevelopment”; the new proposal is described (here’s the official notice) as a 4-story mixed-use building with “63 apartment units, 4 live-work units, and retail at street level” plus 44 offstreet-parking spaces.

And for May 18th, the first look at 4417 42nd SW [map] is scheduled at 6:30 pm. We first told you about the early-stage proposal for this project back in December; it’s now described as a “4-story apartment building containing 58 units and 4 live-work units” with 29 offstreet-parking spaces.

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Eric Galanti, former owner of two West Seattle businesses, sentenced for tax evasion
April 14, 2017 3:00 pm
|      16 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle people

3 PM: Just in from the regional U.S. Attorney’s Office:

The former owner of three bars and restaurants in the Seattle area was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to eight months in prison, one year of supervised release, and $800,000 in restitution for multiple misdemeanor counts of failing to file tax returns, announced U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes.

Eric M. Galanti, 41, who now resides in Olympia, failed to file his business and personal tax returns between 2006 and 2012. Galanti owned several restaurants during that time including Alki Crab & Fish in West Seattle, the Admiral Pub in West Seattle, and Bourbon Jacks (aka Poppas Pub or Charlies Pub) in Kent.

At the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Richard A. Jones said Galanti “enjoyed the lifestyle of the ‘rich and famous,’… but every single year when April 15th rolled around a light had to come on that you owed taxes…. This was a flagrant and ongoing offense.”

According to records filed in the case, the lengthy investigation by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division found that Galanti’s businesses were generating significant revenues, but he failed to keep accurate records. Bank records show two of the restaurants had deposits of more than $7.7 million between 2006 and 2011. While he failed to file and pay his taxes, Galanti enjoyed a lavish lifestyle: using forged tax documents to facilitate his purchase of a $400,000 yacht; taking expensive trips to Hawaii, Las Vegas, and the Caribbean; and paying more than $10,000 for Kenny Chesney concert tickets.

“As we approach tax day, Mr. Galanti’s sentence reminds us of our legal obligation to file complete and accurate tax returns with the IRS. Today, Mr. Galanti, who willfully failed to pay $800,000 in taxes, learned the consequences of neglecting his duty as an American and as a small business owner,” stated Special Agent in Charge Darrell Waldon of IRS Criminal Investigation. “Instead of paying taxes, Mr. Galanti rewarded himself with lavish vacations and a new yacht. His decision to ignore his civic responsibilities caught up with him today.”

The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI). The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Norman Barbosa.

We have a request out for documents in the case. You might recall that one of the named local establishments, Alki Crab and Fish, closed five years ago after losing the Seacrest Boathouse concession space to Marination.

3:40 PM: After reading through additional documents provided on request by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, here’s what else we have learned: The sentence follows a plea agreement reached in January, related to an indictment from March 2016. In the plea agreement, Galanti pleaded guilty to five counts of failure to file corporate tax returns. In the defense memo prepared for the sentencing hearing, it’s noted that Galanti gave up running his own businesses in 2015 and went back to working for his father, and is living with his parents in Olympia.

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TOMORROW: Fun, free, life-saving April Pools Day @ Southwest Pool
April 14, 2017 1:31 pm
|    Comments Off on TOMORROW: Fun, free, life-saving April Pools Day @ Southwest Pool
 |   Fun stuff to do | Safety | West Seattle news | Westwood

poolday1
(WSB photo @ Southwest Pool, April 2016)

In case you haven’t already seen it on the calendar already – tomorrow (Saturday) morning brings the annual fun, free, potentially life-saving April Pools Day event at Southwest Pool (2801 SW Thistle), which invites kids and their families into the water to learn about:

Preventing open-water drowning
Life-jacket use and promotion
Cold-water awareness
Basic water rescue for children

No pre-registration necessary – just show up at SW Pool, 10:30 am-noon. (It’s one of seven Seattle city-run pools participating.) That’s conveniently right after the 10 am egg hunt at adjacent Southwest Teen Life Center!

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CRIME WATCH FOLLOWUP: Another charge filed against Chayce Hanson
April 14, 2017 11:29 am
|      5 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Another charge has been filed against 40-year-old Chayce A. Hanson, the convicted child-killer who has been jailed since April 7th after being charged with rape in a February West Seattle incident. (The photo at right is the only one the Department of Corrections has available, from 2001, when he was serving time for killing his girlfriend’s toddler daughter.) The second charge, filed this week, alleges tampering with a witness; Hanson is accused of trying to get the victim to sign a document saying the rape didn’t happen. That attempt, according to the charging document, is what led to his arrest the night of April 7th, one week after a half-million-dollar warrant was issued on the rape charge, resulting from an incident in early February – the 41-year-old victim, described as a longtime acquaintance, was unable to voice consent or protest because of an untreated head injury suffered in an unreported crash in his vehicle hours earlier.

The new charge says that Hanson then caught up with the victim on the evening of April 7th and tried to get her to get into his car to sign something saying the rape didn’t happen. She refused. Then, the narrative says, he asked if they could meet up the next day. She agreed and went home. A few hours later, she called police to say he was knocking at her door and yelling that his life was at stake. SPD arrived and arrested him on the rape-charge warrant as well as for investigation of witness intimidation.

In the new court documents, prosecutors write that they have discovered Hanson had a 2013 conviction in Las Vegas for burglary (that might explain the gap we discussed in a comment, between his 2012 arrest for an attack on another woman, and the ensuing conviction in 2015). They are trying to determine if that would be applicable as a “strike” offense, therefore making the rape charge a potential “third strike” along with his conviction for killing his girlfriend’s child in 2000. Meantime, the jail register now shows his bail at $500,000.

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What’s up for your West Seattle Friday
April 14, 2017 10:30 am
|      9 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

Highlights for the rest of today/tonight:

HOLY WEEK SERVICES/EVENTS: Ten local churches have sent us information about Holy Week/Easter services and you’ll find it all on our special page – along with the Sunday sunrise service at Forest Lawn (WSB sponsor), plus egg-hunt listings for tomorrow and Sunday, and more.

WALK THE LABYRINTH AT TIBBETTS: Today and tonight bring two open times for walking the rainbow labyrinth at Tibbetts United Methodist Church (WSB sponsor) – now through 4 pm, and 6 pm-8 pm: “The Labyrinth is made of heavy canvas and we ask that walkers remove shoes before starting. We will have hand-held labyrinths available for those who are mobility challenged and music will play softly in the background.” (Entry through Fellowship Hall doorway off 41st SW/SW Andover)

Also today/tonight:

ULTA BEAUTY GRAND OPENING: Thanks to the reader who sent that photo of the long line waiting to get in just before 10 am – even though the new Westwood Village Ulta Beauty store soft-opened a week ago. The official grand-opening celebration is scheduled to last all weekend. (2800 SW Barton)

YOUTH APPRECIATION WEEK KICKOFF PARTY: For youth 12-19, block party at Southwest Teen Life Center 2-6 pm, pool party 8-9:30 pm. More info here. (2801 SW Thistle)

GIANT JENGA: Come play, 3:30-4:30 pm at Southwest Library! (35th SW/SW Henderson)

DAVE HOLO TRIO: Live New Orleans jazz at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor), 5-8 pm. (1936 Harbor SW)

GARY BENSON: Solo folk singer at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

‘A NIGHT OF WEIRD ROCK’: 9 pm-midnight, Llama, Swedish Finnish, No One Can Save Us (Green Pajamas tribute) at Parliament Tavern. 21+. $5 cover. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

YES, THERE’S MORE … check out our complete calendar, and preview the weekend while you’re there!

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YOU CAN HELP: Ticket time for ‘Instruments of Change’ to benefit West Seattle Food Bank
April 14, 2017 9:27 am
|    Comments Off on YOU CAN HELP: Ticket time for ‘Instruments of Change’ to benefit West Seattle Food Bank
 |   How to help | West Seattle news

Fighting hunger in West Seattle is done in many ways – including donating food and/or money, volunteering – and here’s one more way you can help. WSB is among the sponsors for this year’s Instruments of Change event, benefiting the West Seattle Food Bank, which shares this update and invitation:

It’s just 4 weeks until the West Seattle Food Bank’s biggest fundraiser, the 10th Annual Instruments of Change Dinner/Auction on Saturday, May 13th at the Seattle Design Center. The West Seattle Food Bank plays an important role in our West Seattle Community. This fundraiser will ensure that the programs provided to those in need will continue. Programs like the new “Shopping Model” distribution that better meets the needs of the diverse population that the WSFB serves; the Mobile Food Bank, which brings nutritious food to the homes of homebound seniors and disabled individuals; the Backpack Program that provides schoolchildren at risk of hunger with kid-friendly meals for the weekend; the Baby & Child Corner that distributes diapers, formula, baby food, and other important items to help infants & toddlers get a good start in life; or the Community Connections that help families access additional information and services from dozens of partner organizations.

Instruments of Change is a fun event featuring a hosted happy hour, Bourbon & Tequila tastings, silent & live auctions, a delicious dinner by Tuxedo & Tennis Shoes Catering, dessert dash, Funds for Food, and a program awarding Metropolitan Market and their customers with the Instrument of Change Award.

Please join us! You have 2 more weeks until April 28th to get the early bird price of $100/guest or $1000/table of 10. On April 29th, tickets will go to $120/guest and $1200/table. Purchase your tickets and get more information on Instruments of Change at westseattlefoodbank.ejoinme.org/InstrumentsofChange.

For more information on sponsorships or auction donations, please contact Judi Yazzolino, WSFB Development Director at 206.932.9023 or judi@westseattlefoodbank.org.

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TRAFFIC/TRANSIT TODAY: Friday watch
April 14, 2017 6:59 am
|      9 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

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

6:59 AM: Good morning – no incidents in or from West Seattle so far this Friday.

WEEKEND ALERTS: Here’s the weekly SDOT roundup with info on stadium events and protests coming up.

SPRING BREAK UPDATES: Seattle Public Schools will be back in session next week; most parochial schools and some other independent schools will be out.

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FREE SELF-DEFENSE CLASS: Saturday @ Elite Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in West Seattle
April 13, 2017 11:56 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Delridge | West Seattle news


(Photo courtesy Elite Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu of Seattle)

Elite Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu of Seattle (WSB sponsor) in North Delridge is offering another free self-defense class for women and girls, ages 10+, this Saturday (April 15th). It’s a three-hour clinic “about awareness, empowerment, setting boundaries, having confidence … finding your voice and believing in yourself … a three-hour clinic where our goal is to leave you with more knowledge, feeling more empowered, and understanding what self-defense really means (both mentally and physically).” Noon-3 pm. RSVP by going here. While there’s no charge, donations are always welcome to support women’s shelter New Beginnings, cash or check. Elite BJJ is at 5050 Delridge Way SW.

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VIDEO: Southwest Precinct leaders answer West Seattle Chamber of Commerce questions
April 13, 2017 9:00 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle police


(WSB photo: L-R, Southwest Precinct’s Lt. Ron Smith, Crime Prevention Coordinator Jennifer Burbridge, Capt. Pierre Davis; WS Chamber CEO Lynn Dennis, board president Paul Prentice)

By Patrick Sand and Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog co-publishers

“We’re making a dent in the crime issues in West Seattle.”

If you go to monthly meetings such as the West Seattle Crime Prevention Council or West Seattle Block Watch Captains Network – and/or if you read our regular coverage of those meetings – you’ve seen/heard Southwest Precinct commander Capt. Pierre Davis say that repeatedly lately.

Today, he brought SW Precinct crime trends/updates to a different audience – the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce‘s monthly lunch meeting. He was there with the precinct Operations Lt. Ron Smith and newly hired Crime Prevention Coordinator Jennifer Burbridge (read our recent story about her). Here’s our video:

The toplines:

Last year’s property crimes were, he acknowledged, “almost 19 percent over where we needed to be.” So the progress they’re making is to get back down from there. And he talked about how his officers are arresting some repeat offenders “over and over … when my officers arrest these individuals, they don’t want to see (them) back out on the street again” before the ink on the paperwork is dry. There are efforts to change the justice system’s revolving door, he said, as police work with others (including prosecutors).

One recent success story: Car prowls are “down double-digits,” he told the Chamber, as he has told other recent meetings. That’s largely because they’ve gotten repeat offenders behind bars – some of whom are not just car prowlers, but also burglars and shoplifters, generally because they need money for drugs. Read More

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3 places you can stop along tonight’s West Seattle Art Walk
April 13, 2017 7:11 pm
|    Comments Off on 3 places you can stop along tonight’s West Seattle Art Walk
 |   West Seattle Art Walk | West Seattle news

Weather’s great, and here’s your excuse to get back out into it – the revamped West Seattle Art Walk is on! Three of the two-dozen-plus places you can go:

SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE ART GALLERY: While on campus earlier today, we photographed that corner of the group show “Reaction,” which you can visit at the SSC gallery tonight. (6000 16th SW)

From there, southwest to The Junction, you’ll find many venues and artists:

WALLFLOWER CUSTOM FRAMING: Lupe Carlos (above) is the artist whose exhibit is “Wing and a Prayer.” The gallery’s announcement quotes him as saying, “The images in this exhibit are illustrations of stories from my life. However, I prefer not to relay exactly what these images mean to me. I prefer having the images trigger stories the viewer creates out of these pictures.” (4735 42nd SW)

Part of the Art Walk’s new incarnation is the chance to enjoy food and beverage specials. If you love wine, here’s where to go:

VISCON CELLARS: Wine and art are both on the menu tonight at the award-winning winery (a WSB sponsor) north of Morgan Junction. For Art Walk night, tasting fees are waived. And while you’re there enjoying winemaker Ben Viscon‘s work, you can also see paintings by Lindsay Peyton. (5910 California SW)

The full venue list for tonight’s Art Walk – where you’ll see art and where you can find food/beverage specials – is here. End times are now “late” – at least 9 pm.

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BASEBALL: The Peaches are back @ West Seattle Little League!
April 13, 2017 4:02 pm
|      7 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS & Sports


(Photos by Ruby Athan)

Their debut last year made news here and far beyond – and this year, the all-girls West Seattle Little League team, the Peaches, are “back for season 2!” The report is from Pam Bigatel:

Our coach Sean Eley was able to draft all our girls onto the same team, (which was remarkable and miraculous!) and we have 12 girls playing in the West Seattle Little League Rookie League. Rookie League is the first division that allows kids to experiment with pitching during game play (vs. strictly coach pitch for younger players.)

We were thrilled to learn that there was a record number of girls who signed up for the league this year! There are awesome female players spread throughout the teams this spring. It’s been great to see all the families in the stands supporting this treasured part of our West Seattle community, and it’s thrilling to know that many families of girls have found their way into this local tradition.

(Coach Sean with the MVP from the Peaches’ first game of the season)

We’d love to have a ton of fans at our games this spring! All the West Seattle Little League schedules can be found online. The Peaches’ schedule:

Peaches vs. Sonic Boom! Friday, April 28, 5:30-7:30 PM at Bar-S
Peaches vs. Rainiers Tuesday, May 2, 5:30-7:30 PM at Delridge
Peaches vs. Chiefs Friday, May 5, 5:30-7:30 PM at Bar-S
Peaches vs. Sonic Boom! Monday, May 8, 5:30-7:30 PM at Delridge
Peaches vs. Chiefs Wednesday, May 17, 5:00-7:00 PM at Hiawatha
Peaches vs. Pilots Saturday, May 20, 5:00-7:00 PM at Alki Playfield
Peaches vs. Rainiers Tuesday, May 23, 5:30-7:30 PM at Delridge

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Why are grays and humpback whales returning to Puget Sound? Find out @ The Whale Trail’s next event
April 13, 2017 2:02 pm
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   Seen at sea | West Seattle news | Wildlife


(Gray whale, photographed by John Calambokidis)

They’re the whales we talk about the most, but orcas are not the only whales in our waters – increasingly, humpbacks and grays are turning up in Puget Sound too. Sometimes as beautiful sights – sometimes as tragedies, as with the humpback death south of the Fauntleroy ferry dock last August. Among the researchers and experts who came to the scene was John Calambokidis. One week from tonight, he’ll be the guest speaker presented by The Whale Trail in the historic building at Dakota Place Park (4303 California SW). Here’s the announcement:

“The New Giants of the Salish Sea: Humpback and Gray Whales Discover Our Waters”
Presentation by John Calambokidis
Thursday, April 20, 7:00 – 8:30 pm.

New research reveals insights into the return of two magnificent whales to the Salish Sea and the mysteries of their lives. Humpback whales who once roamed these waters hundreds of years ago have returned in spectacular numbers. See some of the new research documenting this return, why it has occurred and some of the implications.

Gray whales migrate along the Washington coast and some feed in outer coast waters but one intrepid group, nicknamed the Sounders, has discovered a highly profitable but very risky feeding strategy in northern Puget Sound. New research and underwater video taken by the whales themselves reveals their incredible feeding strategy from a unique perspective.

Join researcher John Calambokidis, a founder of Cascadia Research Collective who has studied large whales for over 30 years both in our waters and throughout the eastern North Pacific.

Buy tickets now to reserve your seat. And hurry! This will likely sell out.

About the Speaker

John Calambokidis is a Senior Research Biologist and one of the founders of Cascadia Research Collective, a non-profit research organization formed in 1979 based in Olympia, Washington. He periodically serves as an Adjunct Faculty at the Evergreen State College teaching a course on marine mammals. His primary interests are the biology of marine mammals and the impacts of humans.

John has served as Project Director of over 200 projects. He has authored two books on marine mammals (on blue whales and a guide to marine mammals) as well as more than 150 publications in scientific journals and technical reports. He has conducted studies on a variety of marine mammals in the North Pacific from Central America to Alaska. He serves as Project Manager of the Southern California Behavioral Response Study and has directed long-term research on the status, movements, and underwater behavior of blue, humpback, and gray whales. Some of his recent research has included attaching tags to whales with suction cups to examine their feeding behavior and vocalizations.

John’s work has been covered on shows by National Geographic, Discovery Channel, BBC, and others. In 2012 he received the American Cetacean Society’s John Heyning Award for Lifetime Achievement in Marine Mammal Science.

Tickets are available online – $10 general, $5 for kids under 12 – buy yours here.

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VIDEO: 34th District Democrats host Rep. Jayapal, City Council Position 8 ‘showdown’
April 13, 2017 12:01 pm
|      23 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor

The 34th District Democrats‘ forum for Seattle City Council Position 8 had a winner – but did not result in an endorsement, for now.

The forum, billed as a “showdown,” was the almost-three-hour meeting’s main event, though U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal‘s appearance – which punctuated the candidates’ forum, because of her time constraints – brought down the house. So we’ll start with her – here’s our video:

Rep. Jayapal said the Democrats are not a “minority party” but rather an “opposition party” right now. She explained that the transition into her new role has been easier than she expected because the focus has been on immigration and health care, two issues she has long worked on. She also talked about the health-care bill that was scrapped, calling it really “a tax bill” with tax breaks for the richest Americans that at one point carried a “trillion dollars” in breaks. “It was really hard to sit there in committee and hear about all these people who ‘didn’t deserve to have health care’.” While she hailed the victory in getting the bill pulled, “don’t think that it’s over,” she warned, and said that goes for other issues, such as privatizing Social Security. She said she’s signed onto the “Medicare for All” bill. And she said that it’s important to “fix what needs to be fixed.” Overall, our area is “the moral conscience of the country,” she declared. But she also said there are some Republicans “who want to work on immigration reform” so there is some hope on that issue, “working on a proactive solution as well as all the things that we are fighting against.”

Regarding the Syrian situation, “it was unconstitutional for the president to do what he did with that strike … You cannot bomb your way to peace; that is my belief. … We were all devastated by the images we saw, but if you care about those kids,” let refugees in, she said. She also criticized the proposed budget for “cut(ting) everything that you care about.” She said an “educational campaign” is planned to explain to people what’s in the budget. “It’s a horrible horrible budget for all of us, for the entire United States.” Overall, she urged people, “stay engaged … As a longtime organizer, I believe that strength emerges in times of crisis … We are in a fight for the soul of this country.” It was noted that she has a Town Hall on Vashon Island tomorrow night (“and we already have an overflow room!” someone pointed out).

Last but not least, Rep. Jayapal delighted the locals by saying she is hoping to move to West Seattle within the next six months – which means, she pointed out, she will officially live in the 7th District. (She currently lives just outside its boundaries, in Columbia City.)

Now, to the forum for Seattle City Council Position 8, the at-large position that has no incumbent because Councilmember Tim Burgess is not running for re-election. Read More

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