month : 02/2023 277 results

SUMMER CAMP: Many ways to get creative this year with Mode!

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| West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

Here in the heart of winter, we have two more reasons to think ahead to summer! Just announced:

Mode Music Studios and Mode Music and Performing Arts (MMPA) are offering a wide variety of day camps this summer!

Mode Music Studios is accepting sign-ups now for our Summer Rock Bands! Students of any experience level between the ages of 6-12 (additional options for ages 13+ available upon request) have the chance to create, rehearse and perform in a student band — all in one week! Make them a full day by signing up for an afternoon camp at our neighboring nonprofit, mentioned below. For more information, visit modemusicstudios.com/camps

MMPA is offering 17 weeks of half- and full-day camps in July and August! All of MMPA’s camps and classes are offered on a pay-what-you-can basis with full scholarships available. Camps range from Star Wars Play Creation to All About Instruments to Musical Theatre Revue and are available for campers going into grades K-6. For more information, visit modemusicandperformingarts.org/camps

Mode Music Studios (WSB sponsor) and MMPA are headquartered in West Seattle, at 3805 Delridge Way SW.

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER: Wednesday’s here

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| West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:02 AM: Good morning! It’s Wednesday, February 8th.

WEATHER

Some sunshine expected today, high near 50.

TODAY’S TRANSIT STATUS

–Metro is on its regular schedule, but still canceling some trips, as its fleet is not yet back to full strength, so keep watching notification channels such as @kcmetroalerts.

-Regular schedule for the West Seattle Water Taxi.

–Washington State Ferries‘ Triangle Route continues on a two-boat schedule – check here for alerts/updates.

TRUCK TRAFFIC

The backups were discussed Tuesday when Seattle and Tacoma port commissioners met as managing members of the Northwest Seaport Alliance, which oversees cargo shipping for both ports,

SPOTLIGHT CAMERAS

Delridge cameras: Besides the one below (Delridge/Oregon), cameras are also up at Delridge/Genesee, Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Orchard, and Delridge/Henderson.

High Bridge – the camera at the top:

High Bridge – the view from its southwest end (when SDOT points the 35th/Avalon/Fauntleroy camera that way):

Low Bridge – looking east to west:

1st Ave. S. Bridge – the south route:

Highway 99: – the northbound side at Lander.

MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: See all working traffic cams citywide here, most with video options; West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras are also on this WSB page … Are movable city bridges opening for vessels? Check the @SDOTBridges Twitter feed.

If you see a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water, please text or call us (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if needed) – 206-293-6302.

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ELECTION 2023: One week left to vote on two ballots

February 7, 2023 11:33 pm

| 26 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

We are one week away from not only Valentine’s Day but Election Day – actually two elections, with separate ballots and voting methods. Next Tuesday night (February 14th) is your deadline to vote in both. So we’re reminding you/refreshing your memory:

SEATTLE I-135: This is the one issue on the traditional by-mail ballot you should have received already if you’re registered to vote – Seattle Initiative 135, which would create a new Public Development Authority to build so-called “social housing.” We took a look at I-135 a month ago here. This ballot has to either be in a King County Elections dropbox by 8 pm next Tuesday or be in the USPS mail early enough to guarantee it’s postmarked no later than February 14th. (As of tonight, only 12 percent of ballots had been returned.)

KING CONSERVATION DISTRICT SUPERVISOR: You’ll find the ballot for this vote online. You’re choosing one of three candidates to serve on the King Conservation District Board of Supervisors. Two of the three are West Seattleites – incumbent supervisor Chris Porter and Csenka Favorini-Csorba; also running is April Brown. The district explains itself as “a special purpose district committed to helping people engage in stewardship and conservation of natural resources” with an $8 million budget. Voting is conducted via online ballot access, with an option for requesting a physical ballot; find the voting link and candidate info here, and vote by 8 pm next Tuesday.

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ARE YOU READY? Seattle Emergency Communication Hubs team with local school for preparedness prototype

February 7, 2023 8:12 pm

| 3 COMMENTS

| Preparedness | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor

The earthquake that has killed thousands in Turkey and Syria is a massive disaster that reminds us all on a personal level that preparedness is vital. It can be life-saving both during and after a quake. Local preparedness advocates have long been working to find new ways to get more people to get ready.

Toward that goal, a recent family-education meeting at Gatewood Elementary School doubled as a sort of prototype for volunteer preparedness educators to use for future gatherings in other school/neighborhood settings.

Volunteers from the Seattle Emergency Communication Hubs set up tables to share “Urban Survival Skills” – how to prepare your family, your school, your home, your community, as well as “tech hacks” you can use.

If you aren’t familiar with the Emergency Communication Hubs, here’s an explanation. In short, they are spots where volunteer Hub Captains will set up communication-coordination spots if a disaster takes out normal channels of communication. One easy way to start your preparedness journey is to know your nearest hub location (here’s the West Seattle map) – and if there’s not one nearby, get involved and start one! At the recent Gatewood Elementary meeting, participants milled around the tables, learning about the Hubs and about specific points of preparation.

Ann Forrest from Seattle Emergency Communication Hubs helped coordinate the meeting.

She said that in a larger venue, they could have as many as 17 educational stations. As another volunteer, Deb Barker, showed us, some of the tips are simple, like making sure you always have shoes by your bed in case you’re sleeping when disaster strikes and you have to escape through broken glass and other debris. Also – ensure there’s no furniture (like unsecured bookshelves) that might fall on you. This simple list circulated at the meeting offered suggestions:

Partnership with institutional leaders, when applicable, is important in making a plan. Gatewood principal Kyna Hogg explained to the families at the meeting that they do several kinds of drills regularly, including an evacuation drill.

The families also heard from Forrest about Hub operations – including what they’re not meant for, as well as what they are. Example: Hubs won’t be places to get food/water, but they will be places to connect you with information about finding it if you need it. And a point of pride: West Seattle has more hubs than any other part of the city, as the movement got its start here.

So what’s next? A longtime West Seattle leader in the hub organization, Cindi Barker, stresses that this was a pilot, and intended to see whether people found it useful and interesting. So far, she told us, feedback indicated that it was, so they’re working toward another school meeting, possibly for West Seattle Elementary. From there, the concept could spread, If you have questions, here’s how to contact Seattle Emergency Hubs.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Stolen dirt bike; car prowl; package theft

February 7, 2023 6:38 pm

| 9 COMMENTS

| Crime | West Seattle news

Two West Seattle Crime Watch reader reports:

STOLEN DIRT BIKE: Maranda is looking for that 1993 Kawasaki dirt bike – described as a KX125 engine and KX250 frame – after a sale turned into a theft last Saturday. The buyer paid with what Maranda says turned out to be nine counterfeit $100 bills. The transaction happened at Maranda’s apartment complex near Westwood Village, around noon on February 4th. The incident number is 23-033673.

CAR PROWL: From Lori:

Our car was parked in our carport near the intersection of 46th Ave. SW and Erskine Way SW, and some time overnight someone went through it. We must have forgotten to lock it, as there were no signs of forced entry. Luckily they didn’t take much – the only thing I can tell is missing is a blue plastic paperwork folio. They didn’t take things like a decent pair of sunglasses or a Garmin unit, so we assume they were looking for cash or phones. It’s a good reminder for others to do better than us and double-check that your car doors stay locked, to avoid crimes of opportunity.

(added) PACKAGE THEFT: This afternoon in Gatewood, a package theft was recorded on security video. The victim says this is the clearest view of the thief, and in the background, the getaway car:

The victim says this happened just before 4:30 pm today; the getaway car, in which a driver was waiting, looked like “a black Subaru with a rear bike rack.” A police report is being filed but we don’t have the number yet.

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VALENTINE NOTES: Jewelry, flowers, Elvis …

February 7, 2023 2:38 pm

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| Fun stuff to do | West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

Exactly one week until Valentine’s Day. Three West Seattle notes:

JEWELRY: Thinking about diamonds for a gift? Lauren’s Jewelry (WSB sponsor) in Westwood Village is having a special shopping party this Friday (February 10th), 4-7 pm. The independently owned shop promises, “We will have diamonds of all prices and sizes, spin the wheel, party favors, bites, & beverages for all of our attendees. Each guest will get the chance to win up to 30% off!” This is an RSVP-required event – get on the list by emailing hello@laurensjewelrystore.com or calling 206-937-9200.

FLOWERS: On Valentine’s Day afternoon – 2 to 4 pm Tuesday, February 14th – HomeStreet Bank‘s West Seattle branch (4022 SW Alaska; WSB sponsor) invites you to stop in for sweet treats and, if you’re among the first 40 visitors, a long-stemmed rose. Also for visitors: “We will have a drawing for one of our favorite restaurants in the area.”

(Photo provided by Senior Center of West Seattle)

ELVIS! Also on Valentine’s Day, get your evening started early with Elvis tribute artist Bret Wiggins at the Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon), 4-5:30 pm, performing a show themed “Love Me Tender” – classic love songs along with Elvis’s biggest hits from the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s. Tickets are $10 members, $15 non-members, refreshments included, and you can reserve yours right now by going here.

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PORT: Cargo volume down dramatically – here’s why truck backups are a symptom of that

February 7, 2023 12:58 pm

| 25 COMMENTS

| Port of Seattle | West Seattle news

We’ve been talking in morning traffic coverage about truck backups outside local cargo terminals. This came up at today’s meeting of the managing members of the Northwest Seaport Alliance – Seattle and Tacoma port commissioners – and the ultimate reason for the backups are not because the terminals are too busy. Just the opposite. A dramatic drop in cargo volume has led the terminals’ operator SSA to cut operating hours, the NWSA says. Besides what we have already mentioned – the terminals opening an hour later, at 8 am rather than 7 am – the commissioners were told that the docks are no longer running through lunch hour, and they’ve also been closing on Fridays, so what’s been a 50-hour workweek is now down to 32. Truckers get paid by the trip so despite terminals opening later, they’re all rushing to get there first thing in the morning in hopes of squeezing in a second or third trip despite the shorter day.

So why is volume down? NWSA executives say a major reason is uncertainty related to contract talks continuing on the West Coast – shippers are going to the Gulf and East Coasts instead. (Added: Here’s a recent industry report on trends.) But, cautioned NWSA CEO John Wolfe, that’s not the only reason – the “softening market” because of reduced consumer demand is a big factor too. And, concern was voiced, once they’ve lost business to other coasts, they’ll have to fight to get it back. In the meantime, regarding the truck backups, NWSA executives say they have no way to force SSA to change its hours to address the truck-backup problem – “What cures this is more volume.” Meantime, the NWSA meeting continues with other topics, including a T-5 briefing, yet to come – you can watch here.

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SCHOOLS: Two more West Seattle preview events this week

February 7, 2023 11:52 am

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| West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

If you’re still mulling school choices for next year, two more preview/open-house events to know about for this week:

WEST SEATTLE ELEMENTARY: 7 pm tonight (Tuesday) at Neighborhood House High Point (6400 Sylvan Way SW), prospective West Seattle ES families are invited to learn about the new building opening this fall, academics, after-school activities, and after-school child-care options, Questions in advance? Email friendsofwse@gmail.com.

CHIEF SEALTH INTERNATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL: Future/prospective Seahawks are invited to an open house Thursday night (February 9th), 6-8 pm. Tour the school (2600 SW Thistle) and meet Chief Sealth IHS staff and students. Questions in advance? Ask assistant principal Hope Perry, ihperry@seattleschools.org.

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UPDATE: Eastbound West Seattle Bridge crash

February 7, 2023 10:32 am

| 3 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

<(WSB photo)

10:32 AM: Big backup on the eastbound high bridge right now because of a crash into the barrier just before the 99 overpass.

11:04 AM: We’re no longer in that area but the high bridge’s SDOT camera shows at least one lane is still backed up eastbound. We’ll be checking with SFD regarding injuries – the log indicates one engine remains on scene.

11:27 AM: SPD has just told dispatch that the scene is clear. The residual backup will likely take a while to clear.

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Here’s the list for the rest of your West Seattle Tuesday

February 7, 2023 9:49 am

| Comments Off on Here’s the list for the rest of your West Seattle Tuesday

| West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Steller’s Jay and paperbark maple, photographed by Jerry Simmons)

Here’s the list of options for the rest of your Tuesday, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

POSTCARDS TO VOTERS: Long-distance political-advocacy group meets at 10:30 am at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor).

TERMINAL 5 PROGRESS REPORT: During the 11:30 am meeting of the Northwest Seaport Alliance‘s managing members, this is a major agenda item. You can watch online or attend at SEA Airport – info’s in our calendar listing and preview.

CHESS CLUB: Tuesdays 1:30-3 pm at the Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon): “Are you looking for a new activity to keep your brain sharp and clear? The Senior Center Chess Club welcomes both novice and experienced players. Join us at 1:30 p.m. for lessons, short tutorials and chess for all levels of expertise. For more information, contact Conwell: conwell@conwelld.net.”

CITY COUNCIL: 2 pm this afternoon, it’s the full council’s weekly meeting, online or at City Hall (600 4th Ave.). See the agenda here; the meeting is also viewable via Seattle Channel.

FREE INDOOR PLAYSPACE: Toddler Gym weekday afternoons at the Salvation Army Center (9050 16th SW), ages 2-6, 3:30-5 pm.

DEMONSTRATION FOR BLACK LIVES: Longrunning weekly sign-waving demonstration at 16th/Holden. 5-6 pm. Signs available if you don’t have your own.

SCRABBLE NIGHT: 6-10 pm, you can play Scrabble at The Missing Piece (9456 35th SW).

SING! The Boeing Employees’ Choir (you do NOT have to be a Boeing employee) is having another open rehearsal at 6:30 pm, American Legion Post 160 (3618 SW Alaska) – if you’re interested in trying out, contact info is in our calendar listing.

TRIVIA X 3: Three places where you can play Tuesday nights – 7 pm at Ounces (3809 Delridge Way SW), 7 pm at Admiral Pub (2306 California SW), 7:30 and 8:30 pm Sporcle Pub Quiz at The Lodge (4209 SW Alaska).

BELLE OF THE BALLS BINGO: Play bingo with Cookie Couture at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW), 8 pm. Free, all ages!

You can always see the future via our event calendar – if you have something to include on it, please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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SOCCER: Local U19 players win Washington Youth Soccer Founders Cup

February 7, 2023 9:00 am

| 6 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | WS & Sports

Thanks to Alex Fernandez for the report on local champions:

On the heels of a long line of other Highline team success; the Highline Select Boys U19 ’04/05 came out victorious in the Washington Youth Soccer Founders Cup this weekend. After a long regular season, it is the pinnacle month-long tournament for Select teams in this area. They won their semi-final Friday night 3-1 and won the final on Sunday; after ending tied 2-2 in regulation, they secured the win, 4-2 in penalty kicks.

Photo:

Standing: Assistant Coach Scott Roberts, Nolan Whorton, Levi Kuhn, Yuto Shingai, Tyler Christman, Sam Holman, Dylan Roberts, Caleb Purgatorio, Zach Arthur, Emil Bernau, Matthew Rhinehart, Zach Hanczyc, Head Coach Andres Lara

Kneeling: Rex Reifel, Jackie Wittman, Ashton Sawade, Byron Barrera, Tavi Fernandez, Samson Abraham, Alex Frakes, Cameron Moore

Alex says almost everyone on the team, including both coaches, lives in West Seattle, adding that many are high-school seniors. Players interested in joining this team or any others in HSA can find out about tryouts here.

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER: Tuesday morning

February 7, 2023 6:03 am

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| West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:03 AM: Good morning! It’s Tuesday, February 7th.

WEATHER

Rainy and breezy, high around 50.

TODAY’S TRANSIT STATUS

–Metro is on its regular schedule, but still canceling some trips, so keep watching notification channels such as @kcmetroalerts for trip cancellations and route suspensions. Here’s the update on how bus repairs are going.

-Regular schedule for the West Seattle Water Taxi.

–Washington State Ferries‘ Triangle Route continues on a two-boat schedule – check here for alerts/updates.

TRUCK TRAFFIC

The backup of port-bound trucks continued Monday. This is happening after terminal operators changed terminal opening times from 7 am to 8 am, “largely due to decreased cargo volumes coming into the NWSA gateway,” per the Northwest Seaport Alliance (which has a “managing members’ meeting” today).

SPOTLIGHT CAMERAS

Delridge cameras: Besides the one below (Delridge/Oregon), cameras are also up at Delridge/Genesee, Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Orchard, and Delridge/Henderson.

High Bridge – the camera at the top:

High Bridge – the view from its southwest end (when SDOT points the 35th/Avalon/Fauntleroy camera that way):

Low Bridge – looking east to west:

1st Ave. S. Bridge – the south route:

Highway 99: – the northbound side at Lander.

If you see a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water, please text or call us (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if needed) – 206-293-6302.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Stolen silver Subaru

February 6, 2023 11:53 pm

| 4 COMMENTS

| Crime | West Seattle news

Jake‘s car was stolen tonight. Maybe you’ll be the one who finds it (like Joe found Noah‘s stolen car):

Silver 2011 Subaru Forester. Texas plate LBW 2657. Last seen 3800 block 33rd SW.

That’s the best photo Jake has, but he says it looks just like this stock photo.

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The seal with the red cap, and what to do if you see one like her

February 6, 2023 10:03 pm

| 11 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | Wildlife

(Photo by Steve Bender)

When Steve Bender sent that photo of a harbor seal, wondering about what looked like a red cap, we didn’t have a quick explanation – we’d never seen that before. So first we went to Seal Sitters Marine Mammal Stranding Network. SSMNSN’s David Hutchinson recognized the “red cap” as a tag placed by their partners at SR3 when rehabilitating a seal – so the rest of the story comes from SR3’s executive director Casey Maclean.

First, if you’re not familiar with SR3, they’re a nonprofit based in Des Moines, where they have a marine-mammal rehab hospital; their name is short for Sealife Response, Rehabilitation, and Research. Casey told us, for starters, “The red dot on the seal’s head is a tag that helps SR3 animal-care staff identify them while they are in rehabilitation.” After talking with Steve about where he saw this particular seal, Casey was able to tell us more about her:

This young, recently weaned pup was found on 11/8 on the Don Armeni boat ramp and reported to the local stranding network, Seal Sitters.

(Photo from David Hutchinson, before seal was taken to SR3 for rehab)

They monitored the pup over the next 24 hours to assess the pup’s condition, and when she was still there the next day, Seal Sitters reached out to SR3 for further medical assessment. Together the groups determined it was in the pup’s best interest to be taken into SR3’s marine mammal rehabilitation hospital in Des Moines. This pup was SR3’s 48th patient in 2022.

She was in thin body condition, dehydrated, had a wound with some associated swelling and pneumonia. Despite her various health issues, she quickly improved under SR3’s care, and 67 days later she was once again swimming free. Patients are released within 30 miles of where they were found and you can help monitor patients post release! While in rehabilitation, SR3 places a small colored dot on their head to help identify individuals; with several patients in one pool it is critical to make sure everyone gets the proper treatments. The tags are glued on to their fur and will come off when they molt, which they do once a year. By reporting any sightings of seals with “dots” on their heads, you can help us learn more about their survival post-release, photos appreciated! Each patient will also have an orange flipper tag that is placed between the webbing of one of their rear flippers; these tags are permanent so that if they should be found again, we know their medical history.

Please remember that we are fortunate to share our shores with incredible marine wildlife and sometimes they just need to rest. If you are concerned about a marine mammal, please report it to Seal Sitters, 206-905-7325 – responders are available 7 days a week.

And if you see a “dotted” seal that’s not otherwise a reason for concern – happily swimming, for example, you can report the sighting to (corrected) the Seal Sitters hotline too.

SIDE NOTE: This seal has two names because of the SR3 and Seal Sitters involvement in caring for it. Seal Sitters called her “Lady Marmalade“; SR3 named her “Spaghetti.” David from SSMMSN explains, “Seal Sitters has a long tradition of naming the pups we watch over. Usually they are named by the first responder or possibly the reporting party. SR3 uses a theme for names during the season, with this year’s theme being space objects. Spaghetti is the name of a nebula.”
.

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BASKETBALL: West Seattle High School girls win postseason opener

February 6, 2023 9:04 pm

| 2 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle schools | WS & Sports

(WSB photos by Patrick Sand. Above, WSHS #1, freshman Carmen Derda)

The high-school basketball postseason has begun, and the West Seattle High School girls were first out of the gate with a game tonight. The Wildcats hosted Holy Names in the Metro League championship tournament.

(Above, WSHS #20, sophomore Colby Timmons)

Despite being down at halftime, West Seattle roared back to pull out the win, 46-39.

Head coach Darnell Taylor and the Wildcats (12-7) next face top-seeded Garfield on the Bulldogs’ home court.

That game is scheduled for 5:30 pm Wednesday (February 8th).

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FOLLOWUP: Metro ‘nearing finish line’ in first round of repairs that took 200+ buses out of service

February 6, 2023 7:10 pm

| 2 COMMENTS

| Transportation | West Seattle news

For everyone still coping with Metro trip cancellations, we’ve been noting in our weekday morning traffic/transit watches that we’ve had a request out to Metro for a while, seeking an update on how many buses are still out of service. Tonight we have the answer.
“We are nearing the finish line for this round of steering column replacement efforts,” says Metro spokesperson Jeff Switzer.

It’s been exactly two months since Metro revealed on December 6th that a steering defect identified by two of its drivers took buses out of service for repairs. Metro at first said it “proactively removed 126 buses from service out of its 1,500-vehicle fleet.” Then on January 12th, Metro said it actually needed to fix 206 buses, more than two-thirds of which had been repaired by then.

Now, Switzer says, “We are currently looking at 28 buses needing replacement steering columns, of which we have parts in hand to address 20 buses in the coming days thanks to our partnership with [manufacturer] New Flyer.” That work is expected to continue through the end of this month. But that’s not the end of it, he adds: “Building on initial guidance from the manufacturer, Metro has implemented a new enhanced inspection process to identify any additional buses in need of total steering column replacement moving forward.” So in terms of their service levels – which of course are affected by other factors, too, such as staffing challenges – “We’re in the range of 97% of our typical weekday service, and 100% on weekends, but appreciate the patience of riders while we work to address our fleet availability challenge.”

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Weekend gunfire; LA Fitness suspects update; hit-run search

February 6, 2023 4:54 pm

| 10 COMMENTS

| Crime | West Seattle news

Three West Seattle Crime Watch notes this afternoon:

WEEKEND GUNFIRE: From the SPD weekend summaries, one incident of confirmed gunfire. Police went to Hamilton Viewpoint Park at 12:23 am Sunday after a report that someone had fired shots near the park entrance. Witnesses also mentioned a black sedan and/or silver SUV leaving the scene. Officers found evidence of gunfire but no victims or property damage.

LA FITNESS SUSPECTS: One more followup in the case of two 18-year-old men arrested Friday for allegedly threatening staff at the LA Fitness front desk in The Junction, with one of the suspects allegedly brandishing with what police say was a handgun modified to be fully automatic. Bail was set on Saturday for the allegedly armed suspect; prosecutors asked for $5,000 and that’s what a judge granted, with the suspect, who has no prior record, subsequently released after posting bond. The other suspect remains in jail in connection with unrelated cases, in which he is charged, so we are identifying him, 18-year-old Peter M. Rodrigue Jr. One of the prior cases is a juvenile burglary case but we were able to obtain the court documents for the other one, for which his bail is set for $100,000: He and another man are accused of trying to rob three people at gunpoint after following them off a bus in Auburn in August 2021; Rodrigue was 17 years old but was charged as an adult. The charge was filed in February 2022 after detectives identified Rodrigue and the other suspect via Metro security video. He failed to appear at a hearing last May and that’s when the warrant was issued. Court documents show both he and the LA Fitness incident suspect who has posted bond are West Seattle residents.

HIT-AND-RUN SEARCH: Reader report/request via email:

$100 reward for any information on a hit and run in West Seattle at Fauntleroy and 35th intersection.
(Collision) involved 2 cars. Friday Feb 3rd approximately 6:55 P.M. Rear-ended in the left lane while stopped at intersection, traveling toward West Seattle Bridge.

Car fled the scene turning right on a red light onto 35th headed south. Blue Toyota Prius with temporary license tag in back right corner of rear window and Dealership insert. Year between 2008-2013? The Prius is missing a large chunk of its front right bumper and its grill. Please email me at westseattlehitnrun@gmail.com. Police Report has been filed with the Seattle PD.

We’ll add that number when we get it. (Update: 23-032756.)

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HELPING: Builders offering free ramps again this year – here’s how to apply

February 6, 2023 3:15 pm

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| Safety | West Seattle news

(2019 Rampathon site in West Seattle, with WSB sponsor Potter Construction)

Builders around the region will be giving the gift of accessibility again this year during the annual Rampathon. Just announced, it’s time to apply if you or your organization might benefit from one:

The Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBAKS), through its Rampathon program, is now accepting applications for free ramps for families struggling with mobility within their home or from nonprofit organizations whose clients or residents struggle with mobility.

Since 1993, MBAKS members and community volunteers have built more than 500 ramps to give people the freedom of movement throughout King and Snohomish County.

Applications are due June 30 and MBAKS and its members will be building ramps through July. Apply here.

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CORONAVIRUS: City, county end vaccination requirement for employment

February 6, 2023 1:17 pm

| 37 COMMENTS

| Coronavirus | West Seattle news

City of Seattle and King County employees are no longer required to be vaccinated against COVID-19. They sent a joint announcement today, saying that, among other reasons, “the overall risk forecast (is) low enough to lift the mandate”:

Following updated public health guidelines, King County and the City of Seattle will no longer require proof of vaccination against COVID-19 as a condition of employment.

In alignment with updated Public Health – Seattle and King County guidance, Executive Dow Constantine and Mayor Bruce Harrell announced today that King County and the City of Seattle will no longer require proof of vaccination against COVID-19 as a condition of employment effective today.

Throughout the pandemic, King County and the City of Seattle have used the most up-to-date recommendations and expertise from Public Health officials to inform policy decisions to adapt to the conditions and threats from the virus. To keep employees and the community safe and healthy, in mid-2021 that included requiring all county and city employees, contractors, and volunteers to show proof they had received the initial COVID-19 vaccination series.

Before supporting a recommendation to lift the employee vaccine mandate, Public Health officials wanted to understand the impacts of a potential winter surge in 2022 – 2023. With King County’s high level of vaccination booster uptake and lower levels of community spread, hospitalizations due to COVID infection remained at a safe level, making the overall risk forecast low enough to lift the mandate for employees, volunteers, and contractors.

“Since the earliest days of the COVID-19 pandemic, King County’s policy has been to follow the science, listen to the experts, and protect life and health. Establishing a vaccine mandate for employees and contractors was critical to keeping employees and the public safe, and keeping services flowing. Today our experts advise that immunity has reached a level that allows these requirements to be relaxed,” said Executive Constantine. “With high vaccination rates and effective, updated boosters available, we are in a different place in the pandemic, and our policies and regulations will change to reflect the best information we have available today, as they have throughout the last three years.”

“The vaccine mandate was an effective and necessary tool for protecting the health and safety of City workers and the public we serve,” said Mayor Harrell. “The City’s actions then and now have always been informed by the science of the pandemic and recommendations of public health officials – an approach based on data and dedicated to saving lives. Rooted in our shared values of safety and health equity, we will continue to follow this approach as we respond to next steps in the pandemic and continue to advance efforts to ensure a thriving and equitable recovery for all Seattle residents and neighbors.”

More than 98% of King County’s nearly 15,000 employees provided proof of vaccination at the time the mandate launched and the nearly 4,000 employees hired since, while less than 2% were separated at that time due to the requirement. At the City of Seattle, more than 99% of employees provided proof of vaccination or received an accommodation, while less than 1% were separated at that time.

In addition to the employee vaccine mandate, Executive Constantine also rescinded the county’s COVID emergency proclamation today. Executive Constantine reissued the order pertaining to Metro service reductions which will remain in effect. Today’s orders will not impact booking restrictions at King County correctional facilities originally adopted at the beginning of the pandemic, and that remain in effect due to staffing shortages at the correctional facilities.

Staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccines continues to be critical for preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Almost 90% of King County residents between 18 and 64 years of age have completed the primary vaccination series, although most have not yet received an updated bivalent booster and therefore are at increased risk for preventable serious infections compared to those who have received it.

“While the significant benefits of vaccination have not changed, the acute threat to our community and healthcare system has decreased. Therefore, it makes sense that vaccination is highly recommended but no longer required for King County and Seattle staff and contractors outside of health care settings,” said Dr. Jeff Duchin, Health Officer for Public Health – Seattle & King County. “At this stage in the pandemic, we have higher levels of immunity from vaccination and from many people having had COVID-19 infections. Treatments such as Paxlovid antiviral treatment are available for people who get infected and may be at higher risk. We also have tools to further reduce the spread of illness through improving indoor air quality (e.g., through ventilation and filtration) and, in some settings, with the use of high-quality, well-fitting masks.”

Public health highly recommends following the current vaccination guidance which includes a bivalent booster dose for the best protection.

“We are now in a different phase of the pandemic compared to where we were in 2021 and 2022 and it makes sense to remove any requirements for vaccination,” said Dr. Faisal Khan, Director of Public Health – Seattle & King County. “Public Health continues to encourage everyone to be fully vaccinated and to be prudent about the use of masks in indoor settings.”

You can find the newest county stats on COVID here.

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RESTAURANT BIZNOTES: Circa anniversary, Pagliacci freebie, Talarico’s addition

February 6, 2023 11:58 am

| 4 COMMENTS

| West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news | West Seattle restaurants

Three restaurant notes today:

(Photo courtesy Circa)

CIRCA’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY: It’s happening today! Circa in The Admiral District at 2605 California SW is celebrating its 25th birthday today, and co-proprietor Gretchen tells us they’re offering “$12 burgers, $2.50 mini cake slices, $2.50 Manny’s Pale Ales, $15 red beans and rice plate.” If you visit today (they’re open until 9 pm) you’ll also find “decorations [photo above] and fun!” Circa is the Westside Awards‘ reigning Business of the Year, by the way.

PAGLIACCI FREEBIE: Just noticed while in The Junction that Pagliacci Pizza (4449 California SW) has window signage promising free slices on Valentine’s Day (Tuesday, February 14th), 4-8 pm.

TALARICO’S ADDITION: Speaking of pizza, Talarico’s in The Junction (4718 California SW) is adding weekday lunch starting Monday, February 20th – they emailed us to announce they’ll open at noon Mondays-Fridays. They’re expecting to offer lunch specials but are still working on the details.

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Here’s your West Seattle Monday list

February 6, 2023 10:12 am

| 1 COMMENT

| West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Photo by Merry Nye)

From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, here’s today’s highlight list!

MONDAY MOVIE: 1 pm at Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon), “Terry’s Greatest Movies You’ve Never Heard Of,” today featuring “A Stolen Life.” Free popcorn! Advance registration required – our calendar listing explains how.

CITY COUNCIL BRIEFING MEETING: 2 pm, councilmembers preview the week ahead (here’s the agenda) and get a briefing on the State Legislature session. You can watch online or on cable via Seattle Channel.

FREE INDOOR PLAYSPACE: Second week for the new free Toddler Gym weekday afternoons at the Salvation Army Center (9050 16th SW), ages 2-6, begins today, 3:30-5 pm.

CRAFTING AND CREATIVITY NIGHT: 6-10 pm at The Missing Piece (9456 35th SW), explained here.

MEDITATION: Free weekly Zen sitting/meditation event at the chapel at Fauntleroy UCC (9140 California SW), 7 pm-8:30 pm.

PLAY TRIVIA! Three scheduled options tonight for trivia players – 7 and 8 pm Sporcle Pub Quiz at Three 9 Lounge (4505 39th SW); 7 pm at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7:30 pm at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW)

Have a West Seattle/White Center event for our calendar ? Please send info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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West Seattle High School’s Key Club invites you to dinner!

February 6, 2023 9:18 am

| 1 COMMENT

| How to help | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

This Friday, you can have dinner with the West Seattle High School Key Club, whose president Angelina Ly sent this announcement:

We are hosting a Spaghetti Night … There will be trivia, board games, drinks, and of course, spaghetti! This event will take place at West Seattle High School on February 10th from 6 PM to 8 PM. People must enter through the Historical Entrance, located on the north side of the building. The cost for a ticket is $10 per person and can be bought through this link. People of all ages and backgrounds are welcome, whether they have attended West Seattle High School or not.

Key Club is student-run and is the largest and oldest service organization for teens. There are more than 5,000 Key Clubs around the world. In each of those clubs, members work together to improve their schools and communities while also building character and leadership skills through service.

Our goal with this event is to raise money for our club to fund future projects while also providing a fun, family-friendly event to the community.

WSHS is at 3000 California SW.

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER: Monday arrives

February 6, 2023 6:01 am

| 2 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:01 AM: Good morning! It’s Monday, February 6th.

WEATHER

Cloudy and breezy, rain likely, high around 50.

TODAY’S TRANSIT STATUS

–Metro is on its regular schedule, but still canceling some trips/suspending some routes, so keep watching notification channels such as @kcmetroalerts for trip cancellations and route suspensions. (Yes, we’re still waiting to hear from Metro about how the bus repairs are going.)

-Regular schedule for the West Seattle Water Taxi.

–Washington State Ferries‘ Triangle Route continues on a two-boat schedule – check here for alerts/updates.

TRUCK TRAFFIC

Some wondered about the backup of port-bound trucks last week. The terminal operators changed terminal opening times from 7 am to 8 am, “largely due to decreased cargo volumes coming into the NWSA gateway,” per the Northwest Seaport Alliance.

SPOTLIGHT CAMERAS

Delridge cameras: Besides the one below (Delridge/Oregon), cameras are also up at Delridge/Genesee, Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Orchard, and Delridge/Henderson.

High Bridge – the camera at the top:

High Bridge – the view from its southwest end (when SDOT points the 35th/Avalon/Fauntleroy camera that way):

Low Bridge – looking east to west:

1st Ave. S. Bridge – the south route:

Highway 99: – the northbound side at Lander.

If you see a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water, please text or call us (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if needed) – 206-293-6302.

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