day : 18/03/2021 12 results

More big announcements from the governor:

MORE VACCINATION ELIGIBILITY: Everyone 60 and up will be eligible as of March 31st, as will everyone 16 and up with at least two of the conditions on these CDC lists. Plus, Gov. Inslee said in an afternoon briefing, restaurant/food-service and construction workers will be added too. Here’s his full announcement, which also included word he’s expanding permission for long-term-care visits and extending the statewide eviction moratorium.

EARLIER IN THE DAY … you might have guessed an eligibility-expansion announcement was on the way because the weekly Department of Health briefing featured news that the federal government was “significantly increasing” supply in the next several weeks, to the point where Secretary of Health Dr Umair Shah expressed more concern about vaccine hesitancy than about supply. He said virus variants have been identified in 156 cases around the state, but so far they don’t seem to have raised the risk of severe disease or death. Here’s the latest state report on variants.

BUT ‘WE’RE NOT OUT OF THIS PANDEMIC’ … warned Dr. Shah, saying the downward trend had definitely flattened. Tonight’s King County numbers certainly bear that out. From the Public Health daily-summary dashboard, here are today’s cumulative totals:

*84,859 people have tested positive, 285 more than yesterday’s total

*1,444 people have died, unchanged from yesterday’s total

*5,199 people have been hospitalized, 11 more than yesterday’s total

*940,597 people have been tested, 2,144 more than yesterday’s total

One week ago, the four totals we track were 83,653/1,429/5,159/925,061.

STATEWIDE NUMBERS: Find them, county by county, on the state Department of Health page.

WORLDWIDE NUMBERS: 121.7 million cases worldwide, 29.6 million of them in the U.S. See the nation-by-nation breakout here.

HAZARD PAY LAWSUIT DISMISSED: A judge threw out the lawsuit against the new city requirement of hazard pay for grocery-store workers.

FREE FOOD ON FRIDAY: Highland Park Elementary will give out food boxes 3-5 pm outside the school at 1012 SW Trenton … Food Lifeline distributes free food boxes 2-5 tomorrow at its South Park HQ (815 S. 96th).

LOOKING FOR VACCINE? The state has upgraded its appointment-search tool. Meantime, here’s our list of links:

*Check for West Seattle city-run site appointments here; sign up for the city’s notification list for all three of its sites here.
*Health-care providers (particularly bigger ones like UW Medicine, CHI Franciscan, Swedish, Kaiser Permanente, etc.)
*covidwa.com (volunteer-run aggregator)
*Pharmacies big and small – Safeway, Rite Aid, QFC, Pharmaca, Costco
*Sea Mar clinics

GOT PHOTOS/TIPS? 206-293-6302, text or voice, or westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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2 chances to recycle what you can’t put out at the curb

March 18, 2021 9:18 pm

| 7 COMMENTS

| Environment | Fauntleroy | Puget Ridge | West Seattle news

Now there are TWO upcoming chances for dropoff electronics-and-more recycling in West Seattle:

(WSB photo, September 2020)

SATURDAY: We’ve told you about this one several times already – now it’s already here! The West Seattle Junction Association and Chamber of Commerce are presenting a spring recycle/reuse/shredding event 9 am-noon this Saturday (March 20th), different location this year – the north parking lot of South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor). Drive up, ride up, walk up! This preview explains how it’ll work as well as what they will and won’t take. Masks required!

APRIL 25: Just announced, Fauntleroy Church is bringing back the Recycle Roundup – usually held in spring and fall, but last year both were skipped because of the pandemic. Details on what will and won’t be accepted are still in the works but the time/date is set – 10 am-3 pm Sunday, April 25, in the church parking lot (9140 California SW).

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WEST MARGINAL WAY: Last call for comments on proposed bike lane

March 18, 2021 7:32 pm

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| Transportation | West Seattle Bridge Safety Project | West Seattle news

If you have something to say about SDOT‘s proposal to close the gap in the Duwamish River Trail with a two-way protected bicycle lane replacing part of a general traffic lane on West Marginal Way, time is running out. Tomorrow is the last day for nearby businesses to answer this survey; everyone else can send comments via WestSeattleBridge@seattle.gov. The latest updates on the proposal happened this week at meetings of the Seattle Freight Advisory Board and Maritime Town Hall. Those yielded some new information about what it would take to build the path in the sidewalk area on the west side of West Marginal south of the bridge – one of four options reviewed:

The sidewalk path, Option A, would cost $2.5 million, SDOT estimates – 80 percent of that because of utility poles that would have to be moved – compared to $400,000 for the in-street lane:

SDOT wants to build the in-street version, Option B:

The freight board opposes the bike lane and supports removing the “lane drop” by the Duwamish Longhouse, where part of the southbound outside lane was removed as an interim safety measure pending the future nearby crossing light, and some street parking was added. But the board supports the crossing improvements, noting in a November letter to city government that the crossing project is entirely separate from the bike-lane matter.

WHAT’S NEXT: SDOT says a decision memo will be “drafted” later this month, with a decision finalized in April. If the decision is to build the bicycle lane, that’ll happen in August, when a temporary version of the new crossing signal near the Longhouse goes in.

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DEVELOPMENT: Your next chance for design feedback on Bee’s Plumbing project

March 18, 2021 5:37 pm

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| Delridge | Development | West Seattle news

The new office/warehouse building that Bee’s Plumbing plans for its new HQ at 2216 SW Orchard [map] has arrived at “early design guidance” feedback time. The project at the ex-Tug Inn site is proposed for 3-4 stories (the site is zoned for up to 5), with about 7,000 square feet of office space, 5,000 sf of warehouse/office space, and offstreet parking for more than 40 vehicles. The project is going through the Administrative Design Review process, which means no community meetings, though community feedback is invited. Here’s architect Andrew Finch‘s design packet for this stage of the process, focused on massing (size and shape). The notice published today sets March 31st as the early-design feedback deadline and explains how to send yours.

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UPDATE: Governor expanding vaccine eligibility, long-term-care visitation

March 18, 2021 2:49 pm

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| Coronavirus | West Seattle news

2:49 PM: Gov. Inslee‘s holding another pandemic briefing right now and among his announcements, he’s expanding vaccination eligibility again – on March 31st, it’ll extend to more groups than were originally in the next tier, including restaurant and other food-service workers, construction workers, people 60-65, and people over 16 with two or more co-morbidities (added: from either or both linked lists, the state says).

(Graphic from governor’s office)

He’s also extending the statewide eviction moratorium through the end of June (which Seattle’s mayor has already done) and the utility-shutoff moratorium through the end of July.

The governor said the eligibility expansion is possible because the supply is increasing – something also noted in the weekly briefing by health officials earlier today. Dan Laster, director of the state’s COVID-19 Vaccine Action Command and Coordination System (VACCS) Center, promised that the state is working on improving support for finding vaccination appointments, both online and by phone.

2:59 PM: The governor also announced that some indoor visitation will be allowed at long-term care facilities.

3:33 PM: The briefing is over; the archived video should be viewable in the same window above shortly. Here are full details of what the governor just announced.

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VIDEO: Rescued, healed Bald Eagle flying free in West Seattle again – and what to do if you see her

March 18, 2021 2:10 pm

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| West Seattle news | Wildlife

(Photos and video courtesy PAWS)

Three weeks after her rescue at Don Armeni Boat Ramp, the ailing Bald Eagle nicknamed “Bey” has recovered and been released at another West Seattle park. First word of the successful release came from local wildlife advocate Kersti Muul, and today we have video, photos, and information from PAWS Wildlife Center, the regional nonprofit that helped “Bey” get well so she could return to the wild. Here’s what happened when her carrier was first opened Tuesday at Hamilton Viewpoint Park:

And here she is, flying free:

PAWS wildlife naturalist Jeff Brown reports:

We released her at a safe place where she had plenty of room to take off. She immediately left the carrier when the door was opened but spent a few minutes gaining her bearings before flying off. She has been spotted in West Seattle multiple times since release. She was banded with a visual Identification band that is easier to read with binoculars.

We rely on observation from the public to keep track of banded birds. If anyone spots a banded eagle, or any banded raptor in the area, please report the sighting to reportband.gov. Please note the alpha-numeric code, the color of the band, the color of the numbers, which leg is banded, and the location (GPS or address). This data is very important to us, and we appreciate you all putting the extra time to report sightings to the bird-banding lab!

If you missed the previous coverage – the eagle was spotted at Don Armeni, lingering on the ground, listless, and local wildlife advocates organized a rescue on February 25th, with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife agents and even Seattle Police part of the operation to capture her and transport her safely to PAWS’ rehab center in Snohomish County (which is donation-supported). Veterinarians there diagnosed her with, and treated her for, anemia from internal bleeding.

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ELECTION 2021: Jessyn Farrell running for mayor again

March 18, 2021 1:00 pm

| 7 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

The 15th candidate to enter the race for Seattle mayor is Jessyn Farrell. This is her second mayoral campaign – she finished fourth in the August 2017 primary. Farrell is a former state legislator (2013-2017) who is senior vice president of Civic Ventures, described in her campaign announcement as “a public policy incubator,” and has also been executive director of the Transportation Choices Coalition. She vows to “establish a new standard for successful, thriving cities” with priorities including “making housing more affordable and establishing universal birth-to 5-childcare.” Her website says she’s seeking community collaboration to develop a full policy platform. Farrell is a Northeast Seattle resident. The primary to narrow the race to two candidates is August 2nd; the lineup will be finalized in May.

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Ren Reiki in West Seattle: Welcome, new WSB sponsor!

March 18, 2021 11:52 am

| 3 COMMENTS

| Health | West Seattle news

Today we welcome Ren Reiki as a new WSB sponsor. Here’s what Jill would like you to know about what she offers:

First of all, there are many amazing energy healers in and around Seattle. I’m thankful to be part of the community. I think people should choose me because they resonate with my philosophy and spirit. Reiki is a beautiful type of healing that is gentle and can be done in conjunction with other therapies, such as massage, physical therapy, behavioral therapy, or counseling. It activates and encourages your body’s natural healing abilities and can even be used pre- or post-operations and procedures.

I believe that many of us have experienced physical, mental, or emotional trauma or chronic stress. This can manifest in physical issues. The sense of calm and peace Reiki can bring helps give many a heart-centered perspective.

My clients say that I have a calming demeanor and a kind, compassionate nature. I always strive to be a place of ease for those who visit and many say I have lightened their mental state and find themselves smiling, by the time they leave.

Because Reiki is gentle, the changes felt might be subtle. Maybe that week you feel uplifted and focused, enjoying the little things more. Maybe your mind hasn’t been a hamster wheel of stress and “what-if’s.” Perhaps you realize a few days later, that chronic pain doesn’t seem as bad.

Reiki is kind of like a walk at the beach. For some, it’s a few random times a year that feel right. For others, it can be weekly while going through a tough time (like divorce or grief). It’s different for everyone. We’ll work together to find what’s right for you. I am a West Seattle girl, born and raised. I’m also a member of the International Association of Reiki Professionals.

Find out more about Ren Reiki at renreikiws.com, where you can book an appointment online, or call 206-313-9941.

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

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Pepper-spray carjacking; midday hit-run

March 18, 2021 11:05 am

| 7 COMMENTS

| Crime | West Seattle news

Two incidents in West Seattle Crime Watch so far today;

CARJACKING: Details are few on this incident reported after 11:30 pm last night. A man told police he drove to the Arco station in the 7300 block of Delridge Way to meet a woman he knew. She was there along with a man the victim did not know. The man attacked the victim by pepper-spraying him in the eyes, and then took off, with the woman, in the victim’s 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. (So far no further description of the vehicle or thieves.)

HIT-RUN: Kylei is looking for witnesses to the hit-run in High Point that left this damage behind:

I wanted to report a hit and run in hopes one of our neighbors may have seen something. On Tuesday, March 16th my husband’s parked blue Ford Mustang was hit and run sometime between 12-12:30. The driver’s side was hit and the car was moved almost completely onto the curb. Our Ring camera didn’t pick up the event but you can clearly see the car was moved significantly between that time period. The car was parked on the corner of Holly and 34th. This is a busy area for people walking dogs; it’s hard to believe someone didn’t see it happen. Any information or tips are appreciated!

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Alki Community Council and other notes for your West Seattle Thursday

March 18, 2021 10:08 am

| 3 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

Thanks to Theresa Arbow-O’Connor for the splash of color on our gray Thursday. Notes for the rest of today/tonight:

ANNIVERSARY: As previewed last night (with a side dish of history), Luna Park Café (2918 SW Avalon Way) celebrates 32 years in business today. (Special: $4 birthday-cake shakes!)

DEMONSTRATION: From organizer Scott:

Black Lives Matter sign waving

Thursday, March 18, 4 to 6 pm, corner of 16th SW and SW Holden

Come build awareness that will help tear down the systems that have oppressed Black lives for over 400 years on this continent. Hold signs, meet neighbors, and stand for racial justice. Scott at Puget Ridge Cohousing, endorsed by Hate-Free Delridge. Signs available.

FAUNTLEROY FERRY TERMINAL REPLACEMENT: 6 pm online, second of two community meetings to launch the planning process for this project. Here’s our coverage of the first meeting Wednesday (lots of time for Q&A). Go here to register to attend tonight.

ALKI COMMUNITY COUNCIL: 7 pm online, with the announced agenda including:

Report from the Southwest Precinct of Seattle Police Department
Report from Seattle Parks by Carol Baker
Presentation by Mick Shultz of Port of Seattle regarding Terminal 5 renovation

Here’s the videoconferencing link – or call 206-337-9723 (meeting ID 995 1615 6974, passcode 638862)

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YOU CAN HELP: Local student collecting book donations – and more – Sunday

March 18, 2021 9:18 am

| 6 COMMENTS

| How to help | West Seattle books | West Seattle news

Hope Lutheran School eighth-grader Bryson Albers is asking for your help this Sunday afternoon, in a donation drive for Books for Africa. Here’s the announcement Bryson sent:

Ever since I was young, I have loved reading! It has inspired much creativity in me and taught me many concepts that I otherwise would have not known. Did you know that Africa has a ‘book famine’? I am working toward changing that. I want to collect at least 300 books to send to ‘Books for Africa’- so that I can help bring this same creativity and passion to young people in Africa. Unfortunately, many young people in Africa do not have access to books but ‘Books for Africa’ aims to fix this. Books for Africa have already delivered 50,000,000 books to people in Africa (across 38 countries) and hope to deliver 50,000,000 more. I am looking for book donations of (one, two, or many!) that meet Books for Africa’s requirements (see below). Books can be new, gently used, and Textbooks or Library books are welcome as well. You can come to my book drive which will be going from 12:00-3:00 on Sunday, March 21st. You could also donate money directly to the Books for Africa website. In order to keep track of the money, it would be good if you donated it in honor of me so I know how much is donated.

Books For Africa accepts:

popular fiction and nonfiction reading books (soft and hard cover).
books that are 15 years old or newer.
primary, secondary, and college textbooks (soft and hard cover) published in the last 15 years.
reference books published in the last 10 years, except encyclopedia sets.
medical, nursing, and IT books published in the last 10 years.
some Bibles or religious books, please place them in a box separate from other donations and mark the box as “Religious texts.” Bibles are sent only when requested by African recipients.
School/office supplies—paper, pencils, pens, wall charts, maps, etc.

Books For Africa does NOT accept:

Encyclopedia sets
Magazines or journals of any kind, including academic journals.
Home decorating or wedding books.
Cookbooks.
Ethnocentric books, such as the biography of Abraham Lincoln or the history of Ohio.
Foreign language books except for French books. French novels and dictionaries are welcome.
American history or civics.
Music books for K–12.
Murder mysteries or anything with “kill,” “die,” “murder,” etc. in the title.

The dropoff donation drive will be Sunday (March 21st), noon-3 pm, in the Hope Lutheran parking lot, alley entrance off SW Oregon just east of 42nd SW.

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WEATHER, TRAFFIC, ROAD WORK: Thursday watch

March 18, 2021 6:03 am

| 1 COMMENT

| West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:03 AM: Good morning! Clouds are back – but last night’s sunset sneaked in some color, as shown in Michael Burke‘s photo featuring a ferry south of Blake Island:

ROAD WORK

Sylvan Way – Today is the day crews were scheduled to return to complete work on the section east of High Point where drainage work was done.

Delridge project – Here are the closures, repaving, utility work locstions.

TRANSIT

Metro and the Water Taxi are on regular schedules. REMINDER: The Metro “service change” takes effect Saturday – here’s our preview of local changes.

BRIDGES AND DETOUR ROUTES

360th morning without the West Seattle Bridge. Here’s how it’s looking on other bridges and routes:

Low Bridge: Tenth week for automated enforcement cameras, while restrictions are in effect 5 am-9 pm daily. Here’s a bridge view: