West Seattle, Washington
26 Friday
(Parent-and-child volunteer team, October 2017 Duwamish Alive! – photographed by Leda Costa for WSB)
Just received tonight from the Duwamish Alive! Coalition – official word of the fall event on Saturday, October 21st, with opportunities for volunteers at multiple spots along the Duwamish River and in its watershed:
The salmon are running and leaves are brilliant with fall colors – it’s time for our annual Duwamish Alive! fall event throughout West Seattle. Join us in improving the health of our green spaces, creeks and especially our Duwamish River as we celebrate these special community places! Volunteers are needed at many local sites which provide critical habitat for our community and our river.
Duwamish Alive! celebrates the connection of our urban parks and open spaces to our river, wildlife and community. Starting at 10:00 am, volunteers of all ages – at multiple Duwamish sites throughout the watershed from river to forest – will participate in a day of major cleanup and habitat restoration in the ongoing effort to keep our river alive and healthy for our communities, salmon, and Puget Sound.
A special opening ceremony will be held at T-107 Park, across from the Duwamish Longhouse, at 10:00 with special guest Seattle Councilmember Lisa Herbold opening the day along with Duwamish Tribe members and the Port of Seattle. Included is celebrating the 50th anniversary of Washington Environmental Council’s work in restoring and protecting both our Duwamish watershed and Puget Sound. . The community is welcome and encouraged to attend.
Duwamish Alive! is a collaborative stewardship effort of conservation groups, businesses, and government entities, recognizing that our collective efforts are needed to make lasting, positive improvements in the health and vitality of the Green-Duwamish Watershed. Twice a year, these events organize hundreds of volunteers to work at 14 sites in the river’s watershed, connecting the efforts of Seattle and Tukwila communities.
To volunteer, visit DuwamishAlive.org to see the different volunteer opportunities and to the contact for the site of your choice, or email info@duwamishalive.org – this is a family-friendly event for all ages — tools, instruction and snacks are provided.
Direct link to see the list of where you can volunteer, and to sign up, is here.
From last night’s hourlong Admiral Neighborhood Association meeting:
SURVEY BRIEFING POSTPONED: The meeting was shorter than usual because a staffer from City Councilmember Lisa Herbold‘s office wasn’t able to attend to talk about the Alki Public Health and Safety Survey; its results are in the councilmember’s most recent weekly update.
UPCOMING EVENTS: ANA president Larry Wymer, who’s also on the board of the West Seattle Transportation Coalition, mentioned the mayor/City Council candidates’ forum that WSTC will be co-sponsoring with the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce on October 19th (6:30 pm at American Legion Post 160, 3618 SW Alaska)… He also mentioned that ANA will be helping with the Admiral District Trick or Treat event on Halloween (3-6 pm), and that Hiawatha has a fall carnival coming up too (October 27th, 6-8 pm) … On October 22nd, Admiral Congregational Church will host an “Ask a Muslim” event, 1-3 pm, its pastor Rev. Andrew Conley-Holcom announced.
DEPARTMENT OF NEIGHBORHOODS: Community-engagement coordinator Laura Jenkins introduced herself to ANA and explained the department’s mission, which is focusing more and more on community engagement. Those in her role are “here to help you connect with the city and tell you more about … resources,” she explained. “We can help you find the right person to go to … even for us, it’s hard to figure out who that is” sometimes. She said she’s not assigned to a specific area – she “fills in where needed”; of the other three community-engagement coordinators, Yun Pitre is usually focused on the south end, including West Seattle.
WESTSIDE NEIGHBORS’ NETWORK: Judie Messier continues making the rounds of neighborhood meetings to promote the new organization that is now officially seeking members to support each other as they “age in place.” So many people who are getting older “are living alone … and worried about the possibility of losing (their) home,” Messier said, and WNN is meant to provide life-enhancing support. North East Seattle Together (NEST) and others in Greenwood and Capitol Hill are the three other “virtual villages” in the city so far, among more than 200 nationwide, in addition to WNN, which now has 13 founding members, and is offering two types of memberships. “Full” membership offers the option of creating an “intentional household” for mutual support. Messier fielded a variety of questions, explaining that for example, you don’t have to provide support to receive support. Someone expressed concern about the price of dues; Messier explained it’s far lower than other similar organizations. When another attendee brought up the Senior Center and its role in offering/coordinating resources, Messier noted that WNN sees itself as part of a “tapestry” of services and resources. She offered to answer any and all questions anyone has, no obligation – contact WNN through its website.
SAFETY CONCERNS: An attendee raised questions about traffic safety and other transportation concerns that could arise when Aegis Living opens its new senior-living facility at 47th/Admiral next year, five years after Life Care Center closed at the same site. There were suggestions that these be brought up with SDOT.
SOUTHWEST DISTRICT COUNCIL: ANA’s rep is SWDC co-chair David Whiting, who presented a recap. (We covered last Wednesday’s meeting here.)
The Admiral Neighborhood Association meets second Tuesdays most months, 7 pm at The Sanctuary at Admiral (42nd/Lander).
(WSB photo from last Friday)(WSB photo from July)
Ridership last month on both King County Water Taxi routes set September records, the county DOT says. The new numbers were published today, including:
The West Seattle route (had) 42,444 riders in September, up from 41,057 during the same month last year, representing a 3.4-percent increase.
Total year-to-date ridership is slightly down from last year’s record pace, the report adds, while noting various potential factors likely playing into that, including the five-day service interruption in August when the downtown dock was moved to its temporary location while its new permanent terminal is built. You can see a full month-by-month breakdown via the Data tab on this page of the Water Taxi website. October 29th, by the way, is the last day of this year’s seven-day-a-week schedule; you can preview the weekday-only winter schedule here.
(WSB photo)
If you drove/rode/walked along the north stretch of Delridge Way SW earlier this evening, you might have seen Hate-Free Delridge‘s demonstration on the pedestrian overpass. They were there to express support for DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), the program that has postponed deportation for undocumented immigrants who were brought into the U.S. as children. As this federal webpage notes, the program is ending, though members of Congress are working on alternative plans.
(WSB photo from Monday morning)
4:37 PM: We reported Tuesday on Alki Elementary parents’ concerns about safety at the 59th SW/SW Admiral Way intersection since its conversion to an all-way stop. SDOT had told the parents, who formed a Traffic Safety Task Force for the school, that they would evaluate the intersection over a six-month period before deciding whether to make more changes or revert to the way it used to work, including a pedestrian-activated stoplight. The task-force parents met with SDOT reps at the intersection yesterday, including Safe Routes to School point person Brian Dougherty, and now SDOT has just sent this update from spokesperson Dawn Schellenberg:
I wrote to [the list who received this update] a couple of weeks ago sharing what we’d been hearing and were observing with the new all-way stop in at 59th Ave SW & SW Admiral Way. Since that time, the most common concern we’ve received is that people driving begin to roll through this large intersection before people walking start, or complete their crossing. We share your concerns and are dedicated to improving the intersection for pedestrians.
Since the all-way stop was installed in late August, we started collecting data. Our evaluation of the all-way stop will ultimately include an assessment of stop compliance, speeds, turning movement, and pedestrian counts. So far, we have collected speed data, turning movement counts, and pedestrian counts. Based on this data, we have seen pedestrian volumes comparable to pre-installation with a preference for crossing Admiral on the east leg, where the crosswalk is marked. We’ve also seen a decrease in speeds along SW Admiral Way since the street was restriped in late 2016. That being said, we’ve made the decision to accelerate some of the other proposed improvements, including:
• Relocating the stop sign on the west leg closer to the intersection for improved visibility
• Marking the crosswalks across 59th Ave SW to further alert people driving that pedestrians may be crossing
• Adding painted curb extensions (see design selected by the community below) on the northeast corner, southwest corner, and median island on 59th Ave SW to help reduce the size of the intersection
We expect these changes to be made by the end of the year. We’ll continue to evaluate operations at the intersection over a six-month period.
Schellenberg’s e-mail included this image to show the “design selected by the community”:
…but, checking WSB archives, we note that it’s not the one announced in August, nor was it among the three offered for a vote in June. We’ve asked a followup question for clarification. We’re also contacting the task-force parents to get their reaction to today’s announcement.
ADDED 6:39 PM: Regarding the design, SDOT’s Schellenberg replied, “Based on the design selected, we worked with the material fabricator and our Arts person to create a design as close as possible.”
ADDED 11:25 PM: Here’s the response from the Traffic Safety Task Force, via Merkys Gomez, who we contacted for comment:
We had sent an email to Dawn Schellenberg on 10.07.2017, and her email today was unresponsive to our questions, misses critical concerns raised by members of the Traffic Safety Task Force at Alki Elementary, and continues to push through an agenda to continue with an all-way stop, to which we, and area residents, are opposed.
We met with Brian Dougherty of SDOT on 10.10.2017, and he was able to witness first hand the issues that we are experiencing on a daily basis with the intersection, including the near-misses which are not being captured by SDOT’s data. We agreed to
* adequately marking the school zone (per SDOT’s school signage),
* reactivating the light on Admiral, and
* painting and later raising with concrete the median on 59th that separates the north and south lanes on the south side.Those changes are necessary for the immediate safety of this intersection while we work toward an ultimate goal to install an all-way traffic signal that is pedestrian and vehicle activated, with no turn on red arrows, and red light and speeding cameras to ticket violations, especially during the school commute. Given the nontypical nature of that intersection, this is the best solution to improve pedestrian to driver and driver to driver communication and safety. Dawn’s email today makes no mention of our agreement with Brian. We’re talking about an intersection where the primary users are children getting to and from school. Their safety is more important than meeting an exact numerical quota. One child lost is one death too many.
(U.S. Navy photo: EA-18G Growler landing on a carrier in 2014)
We don’t always get advance alerts about military aircraft in the area, but we just got one for tomorrow so we’re sharing it. This is in a media advisory from the Museum of Flight, which as you probably know is not far east of West Seattle [map]:
Three frontline Navy EA-18G Growler electronic attack jets will fly to the Museum on Oct. 12 to preside over the donation of a 10-foot aircraft carrier model to the Museum. The model will be presented by the officers of VAQ-130 Naval Air Station Whidbey Island to the Museum’s Education Office. The aircraft will arrive at 11 a.m. and depart at 2 p.m. One of the Growlers will be stationed in the Museum parking lot with crew members standing by to meet the public. The other two planes will be parked next to the Museum’s airport fence. The event is free.
The advisory included this background, if you’re interested:
The aircraft carrier model is of the crew’s ship, the USS Eisenhower (CVN-69). It was built by the officers from VAQ-130 for a booth at the annual NAS Whidbey Island Airborne Electronic Attack Ball, where each Growler squadron contributes a booth that includes interactive games or displays of squadron pride. This year, VAQ-130 squadron built the carrier, jokingly referred to as “Low Cost Trainer” for the pilots because it includes a zip line that allows a model plane to be landed on the deck. Lt. Cmdr. Kevin Jones, VAQ-130, said of its donation to the Museum, “We think it will be a great addition to the education department at the museum, and hopefully inspire some young future naval aviators!”
Your chance to buy/sell skis, snowboards, boots, clothing, and other winter accessories is just days away at the 2017 West Seattle Ski Swap, presented by Mountain to Sound Outfitters. It’s happening next door to M2SO at American Legion Post 160 (3618 SW Alaska). Here’s the schedule:
Sellers drop off items for sale:
Friday (October 13th) 3 pm-7 pm
Sale, day 1:
Saturday, 10 am-5 pm
Sale, day 2:
Sunday, 10 am-4 pm
Sellers pick up unsold items:
Sunday, 4:30-6 pm
If you’re interested in selling, register here.
1:56 PM: The photo and stolen-car report are from Eric:
It is a 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, burgundy/dark red color. License plate #AYC6610. It has a small dent in the rear door. It was stolen sometime Saturday night at 37th Ave SW and SW Kenyon St. in the Gatewood neighborhood.
The police have been notified, but I’m offering a $250 reward if you find it, so please call 911 and then call (removed) to let me know too.
UPDATED EARLY THURSDAY: Eric reports the vehicle was found – by his wife, who spotted it along 35th SW between Henderson and Barton.
(WSB photo from 2016 Fauntleroy Fall Festival)
Sunday (October 15th) brings the Fauntleroy Fall Festival – and a preview was the centerpiece of last night’s Fauntleroy Community Association board meeting, including:
NEW THIS YEAR: You’ll find a raptor display in the garden area behind The Hall at Fauntleroy, between the building and the open area where you’ll find the pony rides and petting zoo. Also new, an inflatable obstacle course and some extra activities for the littlest festivalgoers.
RETURNING FAVORITES: Birdhouse-building in the Fauntleroy Church parking lot, visiting vehicles from Seattle Police (the Mobile Precinct is expected) and Seattle Fire. Lots of live music around the festival grounds!
FOOD: Vendors will include Tuxedos and Tennis Shoes Catering with brats and squash soup, plus pretzel sticks … Fauntleroy’s new Wildwood Market will be there … Endolyne Joe’s (WSB sponsor) too … and “the tamale guy.”
CAKE WALK AND DECORATING CONTEST: It’s a highlight every year and cakes are needed – from the festival announcement:
There are three categories: Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced. To enter, bring your decorated cake to the Vashon Room at The Hall at Fauntleroy on Sunday 10/15 between 12 noon and 1 pm. Voting takes place from 1:30-3 pm. Prizes will be awarded for each category! The Cake Walk follows and continues until all the cakes are gone. Cakes can be any shape or size. They should have an autumn, Halloween, or West Seattle theme.
The festival is 2-5 pm Sunday on both sides of California SW in the heart of Fauntleroy – around Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW, east side of the street) and The Hall at Fauntleroy/Fauntleroy Schoolhouse (9131 California SW, west side).
Also at last night’s meeting:
CRIME TRENDS: Southwest Precinct Operations Lt. Ron Smith said the Fauntleroy area is seeing an increase in car prowls and auto theft and as often happens, police suspect it’s related to a repeat offender’s recent release, with some new accomplices, and Southwest officers/detectives are on their trail. Asked how best to thwart them, Lt. Smith repeated the most-important advice – leave absolutely nothing in your vehicle, and keep it locked.
FERRY BRIEFING: Gary Dawson, who’s on the Ferry Advisory Committee for Fauntleroy as well as the Triangle Task Force, updated the FCA board on the ongoing travails related to trying to reduce backups – including the recent meeting on Vashon (WSB coverage here).
The Fauntleroy Community Association board meets second Tuesdays most months, 7 pm at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse.
(Spotted towhee, photographed by Mark Wangerin)
Here are highlights of what’s happening in West Seattle, morning through night, on your Wednesday:
JOB FAIR: Happening now until 1 pm at Neighborhood House High Point – details in our calendar listing. (6400 Sylvan Way SW)
FIREFIGHTER STORY TIME: 10:30-11 am at Southwest Library – your little ones get to see and hear firefighters reading to them and explaining fire safety. (9010 35th SW)
FLU SHOTS: As previewed here on Tuesday, both Denny International Middle School (1:30-5:30 pm; 2601 SW Kenyon) and West Seattle High School (3-6 pm; 3000 California SW) have flu-shot clinics this afternoon, not just for students and staff. This is happening “after school” since Wednesdays are two-hour-early-release days.
DACA SUPPORT DEMONSTRATION: 5-6 pm, join Hate-Free Delridge in a demonstration supporting the immigrants known as “Dreamers,” on the pedestrian overpass over Delridge Way at Oregon.
WEST SEATTLE NIGHT OUT FOR DISASTER RELIEF: As organized by the local Rotary, Kiwanis, and Lions Clubs, from 5 pm to 9 pm at multiple West Seattle venues, a portion of the proceeds go to hurricane and earthquake relief. See the latest list in our calendar listing – if there’s any late word of additional participants, we’ll add to it.
EXPLORER WEST MIDDLE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 6:30-8 pm, find out more about Explorer West Middle School (WSB sponsor) at the first fall open house, during which “families explore classrooms, talk to our faculty and staff, and engage with our parents and students.” (10015 28th SW)
WEST SEATTLE HIGH SCHOOL PTSA: First meeting of the year, 7 pm in the school library. Hear from new principal Brian Vance among others. (3000 California SW)
34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS: 7 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy, this area’s largest political organization gathers for its monthly meeting, last one before the general election. According to the latest newsletter, tonight’s agenda includes the county levy that’s on the ballot. (9131 California SW)
THE BILLY JOE SHOW: Live music 8-11 pm at Parliament Tavern. No cover. 21+. (4210 SW Admiral Way)
THAT’S NOT ALL! See our full calendar for everything happening today, tonight, tomorrow, and beyond.
From the West Seattle anad Fauntleroy YMCA (WSB sponsor), it’s registration time for youth basketball! The announcement:
Hit the hardwoods with the folks who invented the game – the YMCA.
In this league for ages 4 to 11, your child will learn the fundamentals of basketball, sportsmanship, teamwork, and healthy habits while practicing skills and having fun. We promise no getting cut and no bench warmers! YMCA youth sports encourage and promote healthy kids, families and communities by placing a priority on family involvement, healthy competition rather than rivalry, the value of participation over winning, team-building as well as individual development, a positive self-image and a sense of fair play and mutual respect for others. Parents are encouraged to be more than mere spectators, by contributing their time as volunteer coaches – as well as being their kid’s greatest fan.
Practice starts the week of November 27. Games begin January 6.
Registration is open now! Learn more and sign up here.
As you’ll see via that link, discount rates are available for another week and a half!
(SDOT MAP with travel times/video links; is the ‘low bridge’ closed? LOOK HERE)
7:02 AM: Good morning – so far, no incidents reported in/from West Seattle.
LOOKING AHEAD: Reminder that Seattle Public Schools have no classes this Friday (October 13th) – in-service day for teachers.
12:51 AM: Thanks for the messages. Police have investigated two reports of possible gunfire in the past two hours – 911 had multiple reports in both cases, no word of any victims, and so far we don’t know what evidence if any was found. Both were heard in North Delridge. We’ll check later this morning to see if police found shell casings or property damage in either case.
11:13 AM: So far this morning, the incident types listed in report logs do not suggest evidence of gunfire was found – which doesn’t necessarily mean it was something else; sometimes it doesn’t turn up until daylight.
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