West Seattle, Washington
28 Sunday
Another holiday announcement from Our Lady of Guadalupe:
Fair Trade Sale: Get Your Chocolate Advent Calendar, Gifts, and Coffee Today!
Our Lady of Guadalupe’s annual Fair Trade Sale is staying online for one more year. Many of the artisans, farmers, and communities we support through the sale are struggling this year due to COVID and slow sales. Through our virtual sale, you’ll find a large variety of unique, quality gifts AND 20% of sales come back to us! Win, win, win! Simply shop through our custom parish link: serrv.org?a=olgfairtrade. Bonus: From 11/8-11/22 get free ground shipping with promo code SE4SERRV21. This year, we are also selling Pura Vida coffee for $12/bag and $4/bag comes right back to us! Pura Vida has been VERY generous every year, donating 100% of sales (sometimes even more!). To order their delicious ground or whole bean coffee, visit https://olgseattle.org/news/fairtrade by November 29. We’ll have coffee ready to pick up at OLG on December 11/12 or via the school that week! Interested in products from our other annual vendors? Visit our website for their links!
6:01 AM: Good morning. A multiple-vehicle crash on the NB 1st Avenue S Bridge has been blocking lanes. Go another way, or wait. Only one lane currently open.
6:31 AM: All lanes have reopened.
6:46 AM: WSF just announced Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth is reducing to 1-boat service – crew shortage.
WEATHER
Another rainy day, with a high near 60.
BUSES, WATER TAXI, FERRIES
Metro remains on its regular weekday schedule, except for the rerouting in RapidRide H Line work zones, including 26th SW. Watch @kcmetrobus for word of trip cancellations.
For ferries and Water Taxi: WSF continues a two-boat schedule (UPDATE: see above) on the Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth run. Check here for alerts/updates. The Water Taxi is back in service today.
ONE MORE NOTE
*Seattle Public Schools are closed again today.
BRIDGES AND DETOUR ROUTES
599th morning without the West Seattle Bridge. Here are views of other bridges and routes:
Low Bridge: No new trouble reported over the weekend. Automated enforcement cameras remain in use; restrictions are in effect 5 am-9 pm daily – except weekends; the bridge is open to all until 8 am Saturday and Sunday mornings. (Access applications are available here for some categories of drivers.)
The 1st Avenue South Bridge (map):
South Park Bridge:
West Marginal Way at Highland Park Way:
Highland Park Way/Holden:
The 5-way intersection (Spokane/West Marginal/Delridge/Chelan):
Are movable bridges opening for vessels? The @SDOTBridges Twitter feed is working; 1st Ave. South Bridge openings are also tweeted on @wsdot_traffic.
See all local traffic cams here; locally relevant cameras are also on this WSB page.
ROAD WORK REMINDERS
26th SW – Continuing southbound closure between Roxbury and Barton for RapidRide H Line prep work. Also, work at 26th/Roxbury. This flyer has details.
Trouble on the streets/paths/bridges/water? Please let us know – text (but not if you’re driving!) 206-293-6302.
1:17 AM: The report and photo are from Jennifer:
My son-in-law’s truck was stolen the morning of November 11th, between 5 and 6 am, from High Point Dr. about two blocks east of Sylvan.
It’s a red, 2001, Chevy S10 pickup truck. The front driver-side headlight is held on with a zip tie. There is a dent in the hood and the metal is exposed, a dent on the tail gate, and a standout black front driver side body panel. These are a few identifiers, along with stickers on the back windshield.
We’ll add the plate # when we get it. Call 911 if you see this pickup – refer to incident 21-299367.
10:40 AM: Update from Jennifer – the pickup’s been found.
Although the Washington State Legislature doesn’t officially reconvene until January, committees are meeting next week, and legislators are starting to think about what’s ahead. The three who represent our area – State House Reps. Eileen Cody and Joe Fitzgibbon and State Sen. Joe Nguyen, all West Seattleites, though they represent a district that also stretches south including White Center and west including Vashon and Maury Islands – had a mini-town hall at Wednesday night’s 34th District Democrats meeting. Each was given some time to talk about what’ll be big this year. Here are highlights of what they said:
REP. JOE FITZGIBBON: The past session “made the most progress on climate change,” including the clean-fuel standard, steps toward phasing out a greenhouse gas, the Healthy Environment Act, phasing out plastic waste … “We got a lot done but we have a lot more to do.” De-carbonize building and water heating is a priority, with a package of bills “to accelerate the transition from gas and oil heating to electric” due next session. Methane, the second-most-impactful greenhouse gas, will be a target this session too, “particularly from landfills, the largest source of methane” in our state. He said there are also some clarifications and loose ends to be tackled. Also, he’s working on bills targeting appliance energy-efficiency standards, phasing out PCAS, addressing salmon recovery (riparian-area protection among other things). He also said they remain hopeful a transportation package will pass this year, including transit, ferry funding, and a contribution to West Seattle Bridge repair.
REP. EILEEN CODY: She reminded everyone “we’re going into a short session” – most of it by Zoom – so it’ll be intense and “problematic, we’re kind of concerned about what we’ll be able to push through this year. She’s focused on the health-care work force – which has suffered a pandemic-related toll. “We’re facing a huge nursing shortage … home health aides … mental health …” and shortages are worsening. To address it, they’re working with hospitals and the education system to increase the slots available – 50 percent of people who apply to nursing programs don’t get in. So they’re working on ways to increase that. Equity issues are a focus as well, such as trying to improve health care for undocumented people. Just this week her attention was called to another idea, that prescriptions are written in patients’ languages; Oregon passed a bill recently, so she’s working on one for Washington. Other focuses: Charity care – though she expects it to trigger a “huge fight,” as it has in the past. The insurance commissioner is working on a bill she’ll sponsor regarding “surprise billing.” Other consumer issues on her radar include a “co-pay accumulator” regarding medication and telehealth legislation involving removing certain fees for people paying out of pocket. The Long-Term Care Act is likely to see some changes, especially for people who are “clsoe to retirement and would not be vested.”
SEN. JOE NGUYEN: He’s looking at how the infrastructure and Build Back Better funds forthcoming from the feds will be allocated. Also: Housing affordability, investment in basic needs. He’s also hopeful that a transportation package will get passed; Rep. Steve Hobbs will no longer be chairing the Transportation Committee since he just got appointed Secretary of State. Nguyen expects “someone more progressive” will succeed him. Next week is Committee Week “to go over some initial thoughts for our legislative session.” Nguyen also noted that the state budget forecasts are looking better than expected.
QUESTIONS/ANSWERS: Rep. Cody was asked about the legislation “to stop corporate health-care takeovers.” Rep. Cody said that will be going through Judiciary, not Health Care (which she chairs). She said it doesn’t stop takeovers but would strengthen Attorney General ability to look at takeovers and ensure services aren’t lost. “It’s going to be a hard session for the hospital association.” She was also asked about the challenge to the Long-Term Care Act. She’s aware of it. For Rep. Fitzgibbon: “Has all #5 plastic been banned?” No. But three applications of Styrofoam are, starting in a couple years. For Rep. Cody: What can she do to promote universal health care/Medicare expansion? The latter, nothing, because it’s federal; the former, the state can’t afford unless they get federal funds. Another question for her: Why are half of all nursing applicants not getting accepted? Not enough room in the programs – not enough nursing educators, not enough clinical placements for trainees at hospitals. Pediatrics, mental health, OB/GYN are the ones particularly short in training space, she said. Another question for her: What will happen with the Universal Health Care Commission? It’ll start meeting next year. Next question: Any hope of funding to increase school counselors and other support staff? Rep. Fitzgibbon said it’s “something we want to do” but it’s “extremely expensive” so depends on how the revenue looks. 2021 had a lot of tax increases so 2022 is less likely to do, given it’s an election year, he added. For Sen. Nguyen, a question about money to reduce homelessness. He said it’ll be a priority “across the board.” When will the Legislature act on redistricting? Rep. Fitzgibbon said that’s not the Legislature’s action to take – it’s the Redistricting Commission. If they deadlock, it goes to the State Supreme Court, but “that’s never happened.” Rep. Cody clarified that legislators vote on it, but need a supermajority agreement for changing with the commission comes up with. Regarding possible changes to the 34th, Fitzgibbon said he doesn’t think the commissioners will substantially change the makeup of this district. He doesn’t favor the option that would remove Burien from the 34th.
Next question: What about guaranteed basic income? Sen. Nguyen said he supports it; it’s being studied. Fitzgibbon and Cody voiced support too; she added, “Gotta figure out how to pay for it.” Last question: Could homelessness and pandemics be added to the Growth Management Act? Fitzgibbon said the former is addressed to some degree but he’s not sure how the latter would/could be addressed.
Got a question for the legislators? Here’s where to find their addresses.
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
“We’re all going to be OK.”
So said a neighbor toward the end of the second community meeting about Admiral Church‘s planned partnership with Operation Nightwatch to give 10 men a safe, warm, dry place to sleep each night. That neighbor was trying to reassure others who continued to voice concerns about the overnight-shelter plan.
Since the Sunday afternoon meeting, which included a chance for neighbors to question Nightwatch executive director Rev. Rick Reynolds, the church’s council has met to further discuss the plan. The church’s pastor, Rev. Andrew Conley-Holcom, says the only update from the meeting is that the program won’t start this month after all – “it’ll probably take around a month or more before everything’s ready on Nightwatch’s end.”
(WSB file photo)
A seagoing holiday tradition is setting sail again this year after skipping last year because of the pandemic. The Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship will make three West Seattle stops on its first two nights of the season. Two weeks from tomorrow – on Friday night, November 26th – it will anchor off Don Armeni Boat Ramp (1220 Harbor SW) for 20 minutes of holiday music at 5:35 pm. The next night – Saturday, November 27th – the Christmas Ship will stop outside Salty’s on Alki (1936 Harbor SW; WSB sponsor) at 5:35 pm, and at Alki Beach Park (usually near the Bathhouse) at 8:35 pm, with a bonfire at that stop. The singers for all three West Seattle performances will be The Dickens Carolers. That’s it for scheduled Christmas Ship stops in West Seattle this year; the usual Lowman Beach Park stop is not possible because much of the park is closed for the shore-restoration project. See this year’s full regional Christmas Ship schedule here.
P.S. We’ll be working on our annual West Seattle Holiday Guide in the days ahead, so if you have an event planned (including Thanksgiving food info), send it! westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you.
The West Seattle Art Walk is on! First stop, Click! Design That Fits (4540 California SW; WSB sponsor):
4:23 PM: That’s artist Reeve Washburn at Click! – where the Jewelry Invitational and Small Works show is on until 7 pm. As Click! describes this year’s event:
This year’s annual Jewelry Invitational is a special one, for multiple reasons. For one thing, we’re expanding the scope to include other “Small Works,” not just wearable ones. What’s more, some of our featured jewelry is by Click! co-founder Frances Smersh. Made over the course of her 30-year career and pulled from the archives for a retrospective exhibition at her memorial this year, many pieces are available for the first time in decades.
Other venues don’t get going until 5 pm – the map/list/preview can be found on the Art Walk website.
5:35 PM: Also in The Junction – Dave Mampel is at Verity Credit Union (4505 California SW; WSB sponsor) until 8 pm:
His show is “Iconic Seattle: Various stylized impressionistic pieces of iconic Seattle locations and a few Van Gogh-inspired pieces.” The painting in our photo is “Moving Stillness.”
6:03 PM: If you favor animal art, go see Sonya Rupnick‘s work at Fogue Gallery (4130 California SW; WSB sponsor) “until late”:
She says of her work, “These paintings are little stories from a world where animals live a cozy, rural life, but one which is also sometimes unexpected and surprising. I try to portray them as living real, interesting lives, which we only see a portion of in each vignette. Each one has its own secret backstory.”
6:12 PM: Now through 7:40 pm, The Art of Music brings live performances to two venues – drop in for a minute or an hour! – details here.
On our way back from breaking news in The Junction, we passed through Jefferson Square and discovered the See’s Candies store (previously mentioned here) is now open – this was the first day. Here are the posted hours through Christmas:
As you can see, it’s a bare-bones setup – they’re not finished painting – and while the person on duty (the manager wasn’t in) couldn’t tell us whether it’s a pop-up, the See’s website labels it a “seasonal shop.”
3:25 PM: Seattle Fire crews are on scene at the Alaska House apartment building (4545 42nd SW) for what was reported as a small fire contained to one apartment, but also has firefighters treating a reportedly seriously injured person. Updates to come.
3:48 PM: Firefighters told us at the scene that this was a kitchen fire and a person having a medical emergency, though we haven’t yet clarified whether the emergency preceded, or was a result of, the fire. The man is being taken to a hospital. Units should clear the scene (and street) within an hour.
5:44 PM: SFD spokesperson Kristin Tinsley says the man, in his mid-60s, did not survive – he “experienced a medical emergency while cooking, and was found slumped over the stove, triggering a fire response.” Medics were not able to save him. The Medical Examiner’s Office will determine his cause of death.
Seen in the West Seattle Junction this morning: The Easy Street Records marquee, a sign of gratitude for veterans’ service. And across the street, volunteers of all ages gathered to place the flags that line the heart of The Junction on certain holidays:
Among this year’s volunteers, Cub Scout Pack 282, including Felix, who collaborated with former Eagle Scout (and current journalist) Brian Callanan:
Brita, Avery, and Josie were also among the youngest volunteers:
Veterans were among the volunteers too – below right is Keith Hughes, commander of American Legion Post 160:
Volunteers will return later this afternoon to remove the flags. You can volunteer now to help with the flags next year – or other Junction events; go here.
(Framegrab from nearby traffic camera, 11:06 pm Wednesday)
THURSDAY REPORT: Last Friday, we reported on vandalism attacks at Fire Station 36 at the north end of Delridge, along with the station’s concerns about a nearby encampment that had been the scene of multiple fires. Late last night, one Seattle Fire engine was dispatched to another fire in the area. The emergency-radio exchanges at the time mentioned possible propane-tank involvement. We followed up this morning with SFD, whose spokesperson Kristin Tinsley tells us:
We responded to a fire at an encampment, located under the off-ramp. There appear to be a few tents that burned, and bicycles. Around 4-5 propane tanks exploded as part of the fire. SDOT was contacted to conduct an assessment of the underside of the off ramp, as the fire impinged on the structure. No reported injuries, awaiting information about cause.
We also asked about the status of the requests Station 36 made following the incident last week, including removal of nearby encampments. Tinsley said that information probably won’t be available until tomorrow because of the holiday. Same for SDOT, but we’re checking.
FRIDAY UPDATE: No new info on the safety measures, but here’s how SDOT answered our question about the requested “assessment”:
We conducted an initial visual inspection on Thursday morning and did not see any indications of major damage from the fire that could compromise the structural integrity of the bridge. We are planning to conduct an in-depth structural evaluation over the coming days to determine if any repairs are necessary. To note, the fire occurred under a ramp that is currently closed to traffic as part of the overall West Seattle Bridge closure, not the actual bridge itself.
From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
WEST SEATTLE ART WALK: That’s the venue list/map for tonight’s Art Walk, both places where you’ll see art/meet artists, and establishments offering food/drink specials for Art Walk’ers. For specifics on what you’ll find at venues all over the peninsula, here’s this month’s preview. Tonight you can also celebrate The Art of Music with live performances at venues in Admiral and The Junction, 6-7:40 pm – details here.
Also happening in the hours ahead:
DINE OUT FOR HIGHLAND PARK ELEMENTARY: 4-9 pm, Proletariat Pizza (9622 16th SW) in White Center is donating part of the proceeds to the Highland Park Elementary PTA – be sure to mention the school when you order.
HERDING CATS: Local band plays a free show at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW) tonight, 8 pm. Go early, have dinner!
Are we missing anything for today/tonight? Text 206-293-6302 – for further in the future, please email westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
Family and friends will gather next week for two events to remember Patrick “Almy” Almquist, a year after his passing. They are sharing this remembrance with his community:
Patrick James Almquist (“Almy”)
Our fun-loving, big-hearted brother died suddenly of heart disease last year on November 16, 2020.
Patrick was living with his brother Steve at their West Seattle apartment at the time of his death at age 61.
Patrick, born August 10, 1959, was the youngest son of Dick and Delores Almquist, who were long-time residents of West Seattle. Pat attended Lafayette Elementary, Holy Rosary Grade School, and James Madison Middle School. Pat graduated from West Seattle High School in 1977.
Growing up, Pat played several sports, and could often be found with a basketball in his hand. Pat was a longtime member of Local 440 flaggers union. Injuries on the job and illness kept him from living a fully active life later in his adulthood. Pat was an avid sports fan, and he loved trivia. His witty sense of humor, amazing memory and story-telling were some of his greatest attributes.
Pat was also known as “St Patrick” in our family, as he lovingly donated his own bone marrow to his brother Michael for a life-saving transplant on St Patrick’s Day 1998.
Pat was preceded in death by his parents, Richard D. Almquist and Delores A. Almquist of Seattle. Pat is survived by his brother Michael Almquist (Sally), brother Stephen Almquist, sister Sheila Almquist of Santa Rosa, and favorite (and only) niece, Jianna (Jia).
Patrick was generous of spirit, with a hearty laugh and a joke to share. His family and friends meant the world to him. Patrick is dearly missed by many.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 am Friday, November 19th, 2021, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in West Seattle, preceded by recitation of the Rosary at 9:00 am. A Celebration of Patrick’s life will take place the following day, Saturday, November 20th, 2021, at West Seattle Senior Center, from 2-5 PM. Please bring a memory, and any photos you would like to share. We kindly request that attendees wear a mask.
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)
6:03 AM: Good morning.
WEATHER
Rain in the forecast, possibly heavy tonight.
BUSES, WATER TAXI, FERRIES
Though it’s a holiday,Metro remains on its regular weekday schedule, except for the rerouting in RapidRide H Line work zones, including 26th SW. Watch @kcmetrobus for word of trip cancellations.
For ferries and Water Taxi: WSF continues a two-boat schedule on the Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth run. Check here for alerts/updates. The Water Taxi is NOT running today,
TWO MORE NOTES
*Street parking is free today in areas of the city with pay stations.
*Seattle Public Schools are out today and tomorrow.
BRIDGES AND DETOUR ROUTES
598th morning without the West Seattle Bridge. Here are views of other bridges and routes:
Low Bridge: No new trouble reported over the weekend. Automated enforcement cameras remain in use; restrictions are in effect 5 am-9 pm daily – except weekends; the bridge is open to all until 8 am Saturday and Sunday mornings. (Access applications are available here for some categories of drivers.)
The 1st Avenue South Bridge (map):
South Park Bridge:
West Marginal Way at Highland Park Way:
Highland Park Way/Holden:
The 5-way intersection (Spokane/West Marginal/Delridge/Chelan):
Are movable bridges opening for vessels? The @SDOTBridges Twitter feed is working; 1st Ave. South Bridge openings are also tweeted on @wsdot_traffic.
See all local traffic cams here; locally relevant cameras are also on this WSB page.
ROAD WORK REMINDERS
26th SW – Continuing southbound closure between Roxbury and Barton for RapidRide H Line prep work. Also, work at 26th/Roxbury. This flyer has details.
Trouble on the streets/paths/bridges/water? Please let us know – text (but not if you’re driving!) 206-293-6302.
(WSB photo: Camp Second Chance’s front gate, July)
The Community Advisory Committee for West Seattle’s only city-sanctioned tiny-house encampment, Camp Second Chance (9701 Myers Way S.), has changed the day/time of its monthly meetings, after 4 1/2 years. The group now meets on second Tuesdays at 6 pm. Here’s what happened at last night’s meeting:
For a second year, no sit-down free Thanksgiving dinner at The Hall at Fauntleroy – but this year, the venue is offering free dinners for pickup or delivery. Here’s the announcement:
There will be a free Thanksgiving Meal pick up at the Hall at Fauntleroy on Thanksgiving Day, November 25th from 11 AM to 2 PM. While we are not able to host in our traditional sit-down style this year, we are offering pre-packaged dinners “to go” for walk-up or curbside delivery.
We are requesting that guests make a reservation to regulate the flow of people coming to pick up meals. They can call us at 206-932-1059 or email info@dsquaredcompany.com. They should leave their name, number of meals requested, time that they will be stopping by, and if they will be walking up or if they would prefer curbside delivery.
We will be making a limited number of deliveries in West Seattle and White Center for those who are unable to get to the Hall. Those people should call us at 206-932-1059. If they do not reach us during business hours, they should leave their name and number and we will return the call to get their details. They can also email us at info@dsquaredcompany.com
We will also have hot beverages and new socks and blankets to hand out.
At this time, we have all the volunteers that we need. We are not accepting dessert donations this year, nor clothing donations. We will accept new socks and blankets, which can be dropped off at the Hall at Fauntleroy on Thanksgiving morning between 9:30 and noon.
The Hall at Fauntleroy is located at 9131 California Ave SW in the old Fauntleroy School Building, across the street from the Fauntleroy YMCA and The Fauntleroy Church United Church of Christ. Please contact us with any questions.
The Hall at Fauntleroy has offered free Thanksgiving dinners for more than 20 years.
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
The Rev. Ron Marshall has died at the age of 73.
His passing was confirmed by First Lutheran Church of West Seattle, where he had been pastor since 1979.
Rev. Marshall was much more than a minister. He was a community champion – especially for nonprofits, particularly the West Seattle Food Bank and the former West Seattle Helpline (which merged with WSFB last year). He was a longtime WSFB board member and even wrote a book about the food bank’s first 30 years.
(WSB photos)
That was not the only book Rev. Marshall authored – he also wrote books on the religious thought of Martin Luther and Søren Kierkegaard. In 2013, he led a celebration of the Kierkegaard bicentennial, commissioning a statue of the Danish theologian/philosopher:
In 2017, he led a commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, for which the church commissioned a plaque of Martin Luther:
His eclectic interests also included the Koran, on which he taught a four-session class four times a year for nearly 20 years – transitioning it to Zoom when the pandemic hit. His weekly services for FLCWS were presented as written liturgies on the church website (we linked to them weekly on Sundays along with other churches’ pandemic-format services), and you can read his most-recent ones here. In the introduction on that page, Rev. Marshall noted that an online-video service “would be inconsistent with our mission statement and the honor it pays to historical liturgies (which require a congregation present). So the liturgies I provide are short, meditative in tone, and solitary.”
He himself was by no means solitary, being well-known and -loved throughout the West Seattle community. Local historian/journalist Clay Eals calls him “a giant.” Along with the West Seattle Food Bank, Rev. Marshall was also a longtime board member for Music Northwest, whose director is his wife, Dr. Jane Harty. When we hear from his family, we will add that here; Forest Lawn is handling arrangements and tells us there is no service date yet.
First update from this afternoon’s West Seattle Bridge Community Task Force meeting is the latest on Topic A – the repair work that’s about to begin. (That wasn’t the only topic discussed, but we’ll get to the others in a later report.) From the slide deck, the announcement that the Maximum Allowable Construction Cost (MACC) contract is almost ready to be signed:
Bridge program director Heather Marx said, “You will see Kraemer North America [repair contractor] crews back on the bridge this month,” first bringing equipment and materials onto the bridge. They’re building work platforms offsite. Much of the current work happens inside the bridge or off the bridge – but she said you will see work crews, trailers, and equipment. Also ahead: Hydroblasting to create lifting points for the work platforms; there are old ones from the stabilization process but they have to create new ones for the “tail spans” – sections of the bridge on which work was not done during the stabilization process.
(WSB photo from August visit atop the bridge)
There will be some “short-term” low bridge, street, and waterway closures for the platform installation, and they’re promising lots of advance notice. Here’s the timeline:
Carbon-reinforced polymer wrapping starts around the first of the year, and low-bridge work – including more of that – also starts in the first quarter.
“As soon as we sign the contract, we’ll be free to talk about when the work is expected to be done,” Marx promised. Asked later if that contract would be viewable post-signing, Marx said it’s a public document, so yes. But she also said the work is “risk-loaded”:
The work also could go “better” than planned, she noted. The activities mentioned in the slide above include a planned “celebration” for the community – but she promised that will not delay the reopening.
Also addressed at today’s meeting – the low bridge, recent West Marginal Way work, and the study for a bridge replacement that’s likely 40 years in the future (more from SDOT Blog here). We’ll get into all those details in a separate report later.
Last weekend, we published Amy‘s reports about a car theft followed by a burglary while she and her daughter were asleep in their home. On Sunday, we added her update that a reader tip helped police find the suspect’s car – but not him. Still looking, she says, and wanted to re-enlist the community’s help:
The perpetrator in the home invasion in North Admiral from this past weekend is still at large. We need your help tracking him down. There is a warrant out for his arrest.
Progress so far: The police identified a second vehicle belonging to him, and my daughter’s laptop was in it. He/they tried to reset it so it’s a bit screwed up but we are working on it.
Between his 2 cars, there were several stolen items including more electronics and jewelry. The police have not been able to get a judge to sign a search warrant for his apartment yet.
The case was assigned to the Major Crimes unit yesterday.
If you see him, please let SPD know. It was a community tip that got him identified … let’s help get him where he belongs.
The case # to reference is 21-294795
(WSB photo from September – Amanda Lee at The Heron’s Nest)
Two months ago, we reported on The Heron’s Nest, a site in the West Duwamish Greenbelt where volunteers have been working on a plan to purchase a site for environmental education and repatriate it to the Duwamish Tribe, whose Longhouse is nearby. At last night’s Admiral Neighborhood Association meeting, Amanda Lee from The Heron’s Nest gave an update and announced the project had received a city grant of nearly a million dollars. We followed up with Lee this morning and received the announcement they’re making:
The Shared Spaces Foundation is excited to announce a major milestone in its efforts to fundraise for the Heron’s Nest, a project aimed at preserving 3.56 acres of land in the West Duwamish Greenbelt for community use, stewardship, sustainable education, and repatriating it to the Duwamish people. On October 5th, the City of Seattle issued a $900,000 grant from its Strategic Investment Fund to the Shared Spaces Foundation. These funds will allow Shared Spaces to purchase the land currently used for the Heron’s Nest, serving as the first step in the repatriation process.
The Duwamish people have resided in present-day Seattle and King County since time immemorial. Where they once inhabited 50 villages in the Puget Sound area, they now own less than an acre of land and have been unfairly stripped of their federal recognition. Preserving this land will increase the footprint of land access by 5x for Duwamish Tribal Services.
The Shared Spaces Foundation currently leases the 3.56-acre parcel just a short walk from the Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center in West Seattle. This undeveloped parcel was, until recently, destined to become the site for a new housing complex. Now, with the help of the SIF grant, the Shared Spaces Foundation will be able to preserve the land from destructive development and allow the Heron’s Nest project to continue the steps they have already taken to restore its indigenous vegetation and ecology, improve its productive uses, and provide for public access and education. Over 5,000 hours of community volunteering has been put into the restoration and construction efforts since the Heron’s Nest founding at the beginning of 2020.
In time, the Heron’s Nest will include the development of sustainable, community-accessible facilities including campgrounds, an outdoor kitchen, outdoor classrooms, tool libraries, an urban farm and agroforest, a recycling center, and a natural aquaculture pool. Once restored and with the above amenities in place, the land will be given back to the Duwamish people and be used for community benefit.
However, the Shared Spaces Foundation must continue its fundraising efforts in order to bring the full project to fruition. The entirety of the SIF grant will be applied toward the purchase of the land. To fund the remaining services and facilities, Shared Spaces is driving a community-giving effort. Shared Spaces looks to raise another $500,000 for materials, staffing, and operational costs, and have set a target deadline for the end of 2021. A successful fundraising campaign this Winter will allow for many of the facilities to be operational by Spring 2022.
In addition to further grant funding, the fundraising efforts include an upcoming holiday market at the Heron’s Nest, a recent dinner and auction held on October 16th, and utilizing the space for community events, nature viewing parties, and workshops. To learn more about the vision for the land and the scope of the project, visit: www.TheHeronsNest.org
Lee says the holiday market is scheduled for December 11th – more on that when it gets closer.
(Another view of Tuesday’s rainbow, tweeted by @missmisti)
From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and inbox, here’s what’s happening in the hours ahead:
DINE OUT FOR ROXHILL ELEMENTARY: 10:30 am-10 pm, MOD Pizza‘s Westwood Village location is donating part of the proceeds to Friends of Roxhill Elementary – but you have to mention them or use a specific ordering code, which is in our calendar listing.
LEARN ABOUT MEDICARE: Presentation at the Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon), 11 am – details (and info about consultations tomorrow) are here.
WEST SEATTLE BRIDGE MEETING: The Community Task Force gets its monthly briefing at noon, online. The agenda and link for watching live are both in our preview.
HIGH POINT STAY HEALTHY STREET: Got feedback on what should happen next? Meet reps from SDOT at 34th/Myrtle, 2-4 pm today.
WORK WITH THE Y! The West Seattle YMCA (36th/Snoqualmie; WSB sponsor) has a hiring fair 4:30-7:30 pm – lots of opportunities – details here.
CITY COUNCIL BUDGET HEARING: Anything to say about the budget before it gets finalized later this month? 5:30 pm online hearing is all about feedback. The agenda explains how to sign up starting at 3:30 this afternoon.
ALKI STAY HEALTHY/KEEP MOVING STREET: An SDOT update on the Alki Point Keep Moving/Stay Healthy Street’s future is part of the agenda for tonight’s citywide Pedestrian Advisory Board meeting (which also includes the viewing link), 6 pm online.
34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS: Tonight’s online meeting of our area’s largest political organization starts with a 6:30 pm discussion of climate policy; the membership meeting officially starts at 7:15 pm and includes a mini-town hall with 34th District state legislators. Our calendar listing includes the link for registering to watch/participate.
BRENT AMAKER AND THE RODEO: Local band’s “surprise show” starts at 10 pm, after 7-10 karaoke, at Yen Wor Village (2300 California SW), as previewed here.
MORE: There’s even more in our calendar – and if you have something for it, email westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
This Saturday, 10 am-1 pm, you’re invite to be part of am “all-hands cleanup” centered on four areas of West Seattle, with the local volunteer coalition CleanupSEA. Their announcement:
A CLEANER SEATTLE IS IN REACH. GRAB YOUR SPOT & JOIN US! Pick a cleanup zone and join us at 10 AM on November 13 for the first-ever CleanupSEA West Seattle all-hands volunteer cleanup event. Bring your friends and family for a beautiful fall day outside together. Bags, gloves, vests, and nifty trash grabber picker sticks provided. Bring a 5-gallon bucket if you have one. Masks required. Clean for 5 minutes or 3 hours. It’s all good.
*Please RSVP and sign up to the respective cleanup below so we can plan accordingly. Sign-up not required, but appreciated.
• Alki Beach (meet at the Alki Bath House)
• Alki Elementary (meet at Alki Elementary Playground)
• Seacrest Park / Harbor Ave (meet outside Marination Ma Kai)
• Under the West Seattle Bridge (meet outside Chelan Cafe; please park nearby, not in cafe parking lot)FREE COMMUNITY CLEANUP EVENT. EVERYONE WELCOME. Presented by CleanupSEA in coordination with Seattle Public Utilities Adopt-a-Street and Alki Elementary PTA Eco-Heros program. Questions? hello@cleanupsea.com
To RSVP, go here.
6:03 AM: Good morning.
WEATHER
Calmer weather expected today, temps in the 50s.
BRIDGES AND DETOUR ROUTES
597th morning without the West Seattle Bridge. (Monthly update meeting at noon today.) Here are views of other bridges and routes:
Low Bridge: No new trouble reported over the weekend. Automated enforcement cameras remain in use; restrictions are in effect 5 am-9 pm daily – except weekends; the bridge is open to all until 8 am Saturday and Sunday mornings. (Access applications are available here for some categories of drivers.)
The 1st Avenue South Bridge (map):
South Park Bridge:
West Marginal Way at Highland Park Way:
Highland Park Way/Holden:
The 5-way intersection (Spokane/West Marginal/Delridge/Chelan):
Are movable bridges opening for vessels? The @SDOTBridges Twitter feed is working; 1st Ave. South Bridge openings are also tweeted on @wsdot_traffic.
See all local traffic cams here; locally relevant cameras are also on this WSB page.
ROAD WORK
26th SW – Continuing southbound closure between Roxbury and Barton for RapidRide H Line prep work. Also, work at 26th/Roxbury. This flyer has details.
BUSES, WATER TAXI, FERRIES
Regular Metro schedule, except for the rerouting in RapidRide H Line work zones, including 26th SW. Watch @kcmetrobus for word of trip cancellations.
For ferries and Water Taxi: WSF continues a two-boat schedule on the Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth run. Check here for alerts/updates. The Water Taxi continues on its modified schedule for this fall/winter (7 days but no weekend or off-peak shuttle buses). Note that the Water Taxi will NOT run on Thursday.
ALSO ON THURSDAY
No school. (Seattle Public Schools are out Friday as well.)
Trouble on the streets/paths/bridges/water? Please let us know – text (but not if you’re driving!) 206-293-6302.
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