West Seattle, Washington

17 Tuesday

53℉

month : 08/2023 322 results

CRIME WATCH: Car stolen from SODO murder victim was last seen in West Seattle (update: suspect arrested)
August 9, 2023 6:46 pm
|      7 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

6:46 PM WEDNESDAY: Police are asking for help finding that car. They say it was stolen from a man found shot to death near 1st/Walker in SODO around 3:30 am Tuesday. They said little about circumstances initially, but now say the 52-year-old victim was a ride-share driver, apparently killed in the process of a carjacking. And they said tonight that the car was seen in West Seattle shortly afterward (where in WS, they didn’t say, but we’re asking). The SPD update tonight says, “The vehicle is a light blue 2014 Toyota Prius with Washington license plates BEP3940. Also, the vehicle has one mismatched rim. All other rims are silver in color.” Call 911 if you see it.

ADDED FRIDAY: SPD has arrested a suspect, an 18-year-old woman taken into custody in South Lake Union on Thursday afternoon. We don’t yet know if she has a West Seattle link but will watch for documents in the case.

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UPDATE: Water-rescue response for sailboat trouble off Constellation Park
August 9, 2023 6:06 pm
|    Comments Off on UPDATE: Water-rescue response for sailboat trouble off Constellation Park
 |   West Seattle news | WS breaking news

6:06 PM: Seattle Fire is sending a “water-rescue response” to the 3500 block of Beach Drive SW for what’s reported as possible sailboat trouble – a person reportedly outside their 12-to-14-foot sailboat trying to get back into it a few hundred yards offshore. SFD and SPD are responding by land and sea.

(Added: WSB photo)

6:10 PM: Some land responders are heading to the Fauntleroy ferry dock in case someone is rescued and needs to be brought to shore.

6:13 PM: Rescuers say they are seeing a person clinging to the side of a sailboat about 500 yards offshore – the boat is upright but the person’s still not in it.

6:16 PM: SFD has rescued the person from the water, and they’re arranging for a separate crew to deal with the boat.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Store workers attacked; trash-can explosion
August 9, 2023 5:42 pm
|      11 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Both of these incidents happened around midnight and we followed up with police today:

ADMIRAL SAFEWAY ATTACK: Two employees of Admiral Safeway were assaulted by a group of people, and one – a 36-year-old man – was taken to the hospital. Police say the two were attacked when they “interrupted suspects who were trying to push a motorized handicap scooter down an upper-level stairwell.” The attackers left in “multiple vehicles” before officers arrived. If you have any information, call the SPD Violent Crime Tip Line at 206-233-5000 and refer to incident 23-227148.

EXPLOSION: This was reported a few blocks west of The Junction, in the 4400 block of 48th SW. SPD says officers “found evidence of a fireworks explosion” as well as “minor property damage.” A reader says it happened in the alley behind a neighbor’s house: “The explosion put a hole in the bottom of the garbage can and blew the lid into the yard of the neighbor to the South and damaged the house next to the cans.”

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About the ‘rope rescue’ response on 42nd SW
August 9, 2023 4:11 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle news | WS breaking news

Thanks for the texts about the sizable SFD response in the 5600 block of 42nd SW (we were in an unrelated interview at the time). We’ve just gotten to the scene, where we’re told that someone was doing tree work in a yard when he suffered a “medical episode” requiring SFD to safely bring him down. He was taken to a hospital.

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VIDEO: Going to Seattle Public Schools’ meeting tomorrow? Here’s what to be ready for
August 9, 2023 2:18 pm
|      7 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

If you’re planning to go to Seattle Public Schools‘ meeting at Madison Middle School tomorrow night (Thursday, August 10th), you might want to take a look at that video. It’s the district’s recording of its first meeting in the series, last night at Garfield High School. These are the meetings that are supposed to help the district define “well-resourced schools” so it can decide which schools to close/consolidate (which, administrators reiterated last night, will NOT happen THIS school year – but might start in the school year that begins in fall 2024) as it grapples with a nine-digit budget shortfall.

The district’s video does not capture the full scope of the meeting because – after opening remarks by chief of staff Bev Redmond and superintendent Dr. Brent Jones, then ground rules from assistant superintendent Dr. Rocky Torres – most of the rest of the meeting consisted of discussions at individual tables, each with a district facilitator and several participants. There was nothing geographically specific about the remarks or questions – so though last night was supposed to be the “central” region meeting, as administrators acknowledged, it was intended to be identical to what’ll happen in the “southwest” region meeting tomorrow, and beyond. The district’s camera crew(s) did not record any of the table discussions, cutting between wide shots once the discussions were under way. We plan to record some of them tomorrow night (the district’s original media advisory said cameras would be prohibited, but we challenged that and they backed off).

Last night, all tables were directed by Dr. Torres to discuss the same questions, and none was sensitive or personal; the questions were along the lines of “What are your favorite things about your child’s school building?”, “How can we make resources/services at each school stronger?”, and “What kind of programs do you and your student value the most and why?” They promised other means of feedback/engagement beyond these meetings, and said everything would be funneled into a plan that Dr. Jones is tasked with presenting in November.

THURSDAY MEETING: It’s in the commons at Madison (3429 45th SW), starting at 6 pm, and the district says it too will be streamed via YouTube.

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WEST SEATTLE BIRDS: Have you seen/heard this one?
August 9, 2023 12:46 pm
|      23 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | Wildlife

(2022 photo by Matthew Olson)

West Seattle wildlife biologist Kersti Muul wonders if anyone else is seeing or hearing the birds whose calls she heard earlier today:

Much to my surprise this morning, I had what’s called overlapping/and multiple ‘keer’ calls of marbled murrelets at 0750. A friend heard them also at 0830 and says she’s been hearing them for about a week.

They were flying ENE from 5627 Beach Drive -ish and directly over the house, low.

This is of interest for many reasons, and I’d like to know if anyone is seeing or hearing them, especially on that inland trajectory. Catching them in flight is next to impossible. If anyone can record them, that would be even better!

They are endangered, and on an exponential decline in Washington. They do hang out off West point sometimes, but nest sparsely on the peninsula. They only nest in old growth.

Here are some sounds. Call number two is what we were hearing this morning.

The marbled murrelet is of particular interest to Kersti, as she spent the summer surveying them on Tiger Mountain after receiving a certification in April.

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West Seattle Chamber of Commerce announces Rachel Porter as new executive director
August 9, 2023 11:26 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

A little over a week after Whitney Moore ended her two-year tenure as executive director of the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce, the organization has announced its new leader: Rachel Porter. According to a news release from the Chamber this morning, Porter previously served as director of membership and community relations for the Greater Federal Way Chamber of Commerce – with which she spent eight years – but she lives here: “As a 10-year resident of West Seattle, I am thrilled to work in the community that I love and care for deeply. It is particularly exciting as a chamber professional to be able to work with businesses for sustainable economic growth in our area. I look forward to meeting everyone in the coming months.” The West Seattle Chamber announcement says Porter’s expertise includes “membership retention (and) advocacy, volunteer management, and programming, and a proven track record in building public-sector partnerships” as well as management of “economic development initiatives, political candidate forums, marketing campaigns, and the Federal Way Chamber’s comprehensive strategic planning process.” She starts work with the West Seattle Chamber on August 22nd.

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WEST SEATTLE COYOTES: More sightings
August 9, 2023 10:44 am
|      22 COMMENTS
 |   Coyotes | West Seattle news | Wildlife

That’s video sent by Kevin showing what he believed was the same coyote in Seaview noted by Steph in our previou report on readers’ sightings; he saw it last Saturday morning on 48th SW between SW Juneau and SW Raymond. We have two more, as coyotes’ apparent resurgence in our area continues: Leslie emailed today to report, “I spotted a coyote this morning around 6:00 am entering the woods that line the Riverview Playfield, just north of the tennis court.” And Gregg reported that last Saturday night, “At 11:10 pm while walking my dog, I spotted two coyotes running on 55th Ave SW and SW Dakota Street. They took a right on SW Dakota street from 55th Ave SW then a left on 56th Ave SW and continued south on Hillcrest Ave SW. I am guessing they were making their way toward Me-Kwa-Mooks Park and probably looking for rabbits.” Gregg added, “It’s been a few years since I have seen a coyote in the Genesee Hill area.” Since many people have moved here since the days of frequent sightings, we’re reminding you about advice on how to co-exist – especially avoiding providing food sources (from pet food to unaccompanied small pets) – from rabbits to rats, the coyotes can find plenty on their own.

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The list for your West Seattle Wednesday
August 9, 2023 10:12 am
|    Comments Off on The list for your West Seattle Wednesday
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Last week’s supermoon-rise, photographed by Brandon Faloona)

Here’s what’s happening for the rest of today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

TODDLER READING TIME: 10:30 am at Paper Boat Booksellers (6040 California SW).

HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK: Open 11 am-8 pm. (1100 SW Cloverdale)

SUMMER MEALS FOR KIDS: Here’s the list of local sites where free food is available for kids on weekdays this summer, 11:30 am-1 pm lunch, 2-3 pm snacks.

DELRIDGE WADING POOL: Noon-5:30 pm – the city says sunbreaks are expected so unless the forecast takes a turn for the worse, they’ll open wading pools today. (4501 Delridge Way SW)

LINCOLN PARK WADING POOL: Noon-7 pm – see weather note above. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

COLMAN POOL: Also at Lincoln Park, this outdoor salt-water pool is open noon-7 pm daily through Labor Day. See the session schedule here.

FIX-IT WORKSHOP: Don’t replace it – repair it! Weekly event, 5:30-7:30 pm at West Seattle Tool Library (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center).

TRIVIA x 5: Here’s where to play tonight. At 6 pm, Locust Cider (2820 Alki SW) now offers trivia … Larry’s Tavern (3405 California SW) hosts Wednesday-night trivia starting at 8 pm; there’s 7:30 and 8:30 pm Sporcle Pub Quiz at The Lodge (4209 SW Alaska); trivia starts at 8 pm at Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW); at 8:30 pm, trivia with Phil T at Talarico’s (4718 California SW).

LIVE MUSIC AT THE LOCOL: 6:30 pm. 21+. Rotating performer slate. (7902 35th SW)

LIVE PIANO MUSIC: 7 pm at Otter on the Rocks. (4210 SW Admiral Way).

MUSIC BINGO: Play weekly at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7 pm.

SKYLARK OPEN MIC: 7:30 pm signups @ West Seattle’s longest-running open mic – no cover to watch. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

Planning a presentation, meeting, performance, reading, tour, fundraiser, sale, discussion, or …? If it’s open to the community, please send us info for West Seattle’s only comprehensive event calendar! westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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YOUTH SPORTS: Volleyball signup time for 10-to-11-year-olds
August 9, 2023 9:40 am
|      5 COMMENTS
 |   High Point | West Seattle news | WS & Sports

That’s “Coach Al” and his 10-to-11-year-olds’ volleyball team from last year. He asked us to share this announcement that registration is open for this year:

Sign-ups are now open for 10–11-year-old volleyball players at High Point Community Center:

Come have some fun while learning the awesome game of volleyball in a fun, supportive, and encouraging environment by a coach who’s passionate about the game!

Open to 10–11-year-olds regardless of experience level who want to learn the sport and improve their skills while building team camaraderie and competing against other centers throughout the city, culminating in an ‘All-City Jamboree’ in November.

High Point Community Center (6920 34th Ave SW) is now open for registration for play beginning the first week of September.

There are only 12 spots available on the roster so get your child(ren) signed-up right away.

Registration and more information can be had by calling 206-684-7422.

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER: Wednesday notes
August 9, 2023 6:03 am
|    Comments Off on TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER: Wednesday notes
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:03 AM: Good morning! It’s Wednesday, August 9th.

WEATHER & SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Mostly cloudy, rain likely this morning, high in the mid-70s. Today’s sunrise was at 5:57 am; sunset will be at 8:32 pm.

(Monday night at Lincoln Park – photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)

NEW SPEED CUSHIONS

On SW Thistle near Chief Sealth International High School.

TRANSIT TODAY

Metro – regular schedule – check here for advisories.

Water Taxi – regular schedule.

Washington State Ferries – 2-boat service. Check Vessel Watch to see where the boats are.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

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

High Bridge – the main camera:

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

Low Bridge – east-end vicinity:

1st Ave. S. Bridge – alternate route across the river:

Highway 99: – 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 on this WSB page.

BRIDGE INFO: The @SDOTBridges Twitter feed shows whether the city’s movable bridges are opening for vessel traffic.

If you see trouble on the bridges/streets/paths/bay, please text or call us (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities). Thank you!

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BIZNOTE: Here’s what happened to Mobi
August 8, 2023 10:11 pm
|      14 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

Lately we’ve received questions about several local service businesses that seemed to vanish – or so it appeared to the former customers, since these were services you might not need often, so weeks or months might have elapsed between the last time you visited and the discovery that they’d closed. Such was the case for Ann, who emailed us today wondering what happened to Mobi, the tech-repair shop at 3215 California SW (where it had moved five years ago). Ann raved about Mobi’s service and said she was “absolutely floored when I called the shop today and got an automated message ‘this number is no longer in service’.” We managed to find an email address for Mobi’s owner Nathan Wong, and he replied to our questions quickly. He began, “We didn’t have much time to tie up loose ends with our clients,” and went on to explain what happened:

It all happened rather quickly. It was getting really difficult for us to remain open for various reasons, but primarily due to decisions made by large manufacturers such as Apple or Samsung.

For example; serializing different phone parts to prevent third-party repairs unless with original manufacturer parts (which were often incredibly expensive). These decisions began to affect our repairs, and soon enough I began to lose faith in the quality of parts we COULD afford. I no longer felt confident in the quality of repairs we were able to provide. It is unfortunate as Mobi took great pride in our workmanship and reliability.

Due to the instability of the industry I began to pursue a different career, and so did my employees (as I encouraged them to).

When the time came for me to move forward in my career, I no longer had the time or resources to keep things pushing with Mobi. The amount of work needed to keep up with popular franchises was exhausting and often discouraging. I ultimately wanted to sell Mobi to another repair franchise that perhaps had the resources to invest into Mobi’s success, but my property manager pulled the rug out from under us a few weeks before the deal closed. The owner of the building sold the building, and we were forced to vacate by the end of our lease in June, effectively shutting down any interest the buyer had.

County records do not yet show the building’s new ownership. Wong said he wanted to reply with details because “Mobi always advocated for transparency in our business.”

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WINE FANS! New event to bring together West Seattle wineries
August 8, 2023 9:00 pm
|      8 COMMENTS
 |   Highland Park | West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news | WS beverages

Highland Park Corner Store has announced a dream event for West Seattle wine fans:

HPCS proprietor Meaghan Haas tells WSB, “We’re really excited about this one. We now carry wines from all of the wineries here in West Seattle – part of our effort to support other West Seattle businesses. They told us they’d never had a tasting event where they all were together under one roof, so we decided to host one with them! And add in a couple of nearby wineries that are owned by West Seattle families.” It’s happening at HPCS 4-7 pm Saturday, August 19th. Participating wineries:

– Darby Winery
– Nota Bene Cellars
– Pine Lake Cellars
– T2 Cellar
– Viscon Cellars (WSB sponsor)
– Welcome Road Winery

Tickets are $20 advance, $25 day of event, available at highlandparkcornerstore.com. 21+ only – they’ll be verifying when you arrive at HPCS (7789 Highland Park Way SW).

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FOLLOWUP: Speed-bump installation near Sealth/Denny campus
August 8, 2023 6:06 pm
|      5 COMMENTS
 |   Safety | Transportation | West Seattle news

6:06 PM: Three and a half weeks after we reported
speed humps/cushions were on the way to SW Thistle and other streets around the Sealth/Denny campus, installation has begun. We noticed the fresh asphalt protrusions while headed eastbound on Thistle a bit earlier. It appeared the eastbound installation was further along than the westbound side.

8:11 PM: Going back the other way, we were able to see that the sets on Thistle are complete. We weren’t able to check 27th, 25th, or Kenyon.

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THURSDAY TUNES: Three ‘Art of Music’ performances planned for August’s West Seattle Art Walk
August 8, 2023 3:55 pm
|    Comments Off on THURSDAY TUNES: Three ‘Art of Music’ performances planned for August’s West Seattle Art Walk
 |   West Seattle Art Walk | West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

This Thursday brings the West Seattle Art Walk, accompanied again this month by The Art of Music, free performances at multiple local venues. Three this time — Epiphany of Time in The Junction in front of KeyBank (SW corner of California/Alaska), MoonGirl in the Admiral District at Soprano’s Antico Pizza and Pasta (2348 California SW), and Natalie Paige in Morgan Junction at Whisky West (6451 California SW). The performances are concurrent, all scheduled 6 pm to 7:45 pm. Find out more about the performers and shows by going here!

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BIZNOTE: Admiral Vision opening soon
August 8, 2023 1:55 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   Health | West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

Reader Tracie asked about the status of Admiral Vision, which is going into the second commercial space at Admiral Station (2715 California SW), next to West Seattle Realty (WSB sponsor). We reached Dr. Peter Wu via email; he tells WSB, “I don’t have a firm date set but I plan on opening Admiral Vision in a month.” He says it’s a “brand-new practice,” not an expansion from elsewhere, though he “grew up in Seattle originally.” Dr. Wu says Admiral Vision will be a full-service optometry clinic including eye exams, contact-lens fittings, and “a great selection of independent glasses-frame lines.”

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: School damaged by gunfire; stolen Sportage; another broken-window car prowl
August 8, 2023 11:56 am
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Three reports:

GUNFIRE DAMAGES SCHOOL: From Seattle Police report summaries, this Monday discovery on the Highland Park Elementary campus:

At 10:32 [am], staff observed two children handling a spent casing in the playground area. The staff member then observed bullet damage on the building. Police responded and noted ballistic damage to a floodlight and on the exterior of the building where the floodlight was located. Staff indicated the light was functioning Thursday (8/3) and found damaged Friday (8/4).

If you have any information, the SPD incident # is 23-225299.

STOLEN SPORTAGE: From Molly: “We unfortunately woke up to our 2022 white Kia Sportage stolen from our driveway this morning in Gatewood. With the string of people joyriding and swapping Kia/Hyundais, we are really hoping it is still in the neighborhood.” License plate CAC0282.

ANOTHER BROKEN-WINDOW CAR PROWL: From Brigid:

Woke up to our driver’s-side door smashed Friday, August 4th. Parked on 29th Street SW in front of our house, between Cloverdale and Trenton. Nothing inside to steal, pure vandalism entertainment. Rash of cars’ windows being broken in our Westwood neighborhood :( Neighbors think it could have been between 530 am-700 am? Submitted police report.

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WEST SEATTLE TUESDAY: 13 possibilities
August 8, 2023 10:21 am
|      16 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Photo by Rosalie Miller, who explains, ‘Flower Crab Spider ambushes Western Honeybee’)

Here’s what’s on the list for the rest of today/tonight:

HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK: Open 11 am-8 pm. (1100 SW Cloverdale)

SUMMER MEALS FOR KIDS: Here’s the list of local sites where free food is available for kids on weekdays this summer, 11:30 am-1 pm lunch, 2-3 pm snacks.

E.C. HUGHES WADING POOL OPEN: Noon-7 pm. (2805 SW Holden)

LINCOLN PARK WADING POOL OPEN: Noon-7 pm. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

COLMAN POOL OPEN: Also at Lincoln Park, this outdoor salt-water pool is open noon-7 pm daily through Labor Day. See the session schedule here.

SEATTLE PORT COMMISSION MEETING: Noon at Pier 69 downtown and online – find the stream and agenda/materials here.

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.” (Questions? Email conwell@conwelld.net.)

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

STORYTIME IN THE GARDEN: 6 pm stories and activities for kids at the Delridge P-Patch, weekly throughout the summer. (5078 25th SW)

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

NEW TRIVIA: Zeeks Pizza West Seattle recently launched a Tuesday trivia night: 7 pm, teams of up to 6, free to play, happy-hour food and beverage specials. Hosted by Geeks Who Drink. (6459 California SW)

MORE TRIVIA: Three other places to play Tuesday nights – 7 pm at Ounces (3803 Delridge Way SW), free and hosted by Beat the Geek Trivia; 7 pm at Admiral Pub (2306 California SW); also, 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 look into the future any time 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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HUNT CONTINUES: The glass float that was found almost afloat
August 8, 2023 9:00 am
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   Fun stuff to do | West Seattle news

This is the fourth day of this year’s West Seattle Glass Float Hunt, with 19 of the first 50 still waiting to be found. Of those that have been found, one was hidden almost afloat:

That’s Jonah of Alki Kayak Tours “hiding” a float on a piling – note the tide (and weather!) difference when float hunter Phil found and retrieved it:

Of the remaining 19, organizers say:

All of them are in businesses and none are outside. Here are the found locations (which will not be repeated):”

Alki Kayak Tours
Beveridge Place Pub
By & By Skate Shop
C&P Coffee
Cupcake Royale
Dumplings of Fury
Easy Street Records
Emerald Water Anglers
Hotwire Coffee
Launchpad Coworking
Log House / Historical Society
Meeples Games
Next to Nature
Princess & The Bear Wines
Starbucks
The Alley
The Grove
Three 9 Lounge
WEND Jewelry
Marination
Me-Kwa-Mooks
By the nursery
Whale Tail
Jack Block Park
Belvedere Park
Schmitz Park
Lowman Beach Park
Dakota Place Park
Totem Pole Park
Madison Middle School
Hope Lutheran

If you’re just finding out about this, backstory is in this preview from last week.

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER: Tuesday begins
August 8, 2023 6:02 am
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:02 AM: Good morning! It’s Tuesday, August 8th.

WEATHER & SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Partly sunny today, rain possible tonight, high in the mid-70s. Today’s sunrise was at 5:56 am; sunset will be at 8:33 pm.

ROAD WORK

On West Marginal Way SW, “quiet zone” work continues – as previewed here.

TRANSIT TODAY

Metro – regular schedule – check here for advisories.

Water Taxi – regular schedule.

Washington State Ferries – 2-boat service. Check Vessel Watch to see where the boats are.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

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

High Bridge – the main camera:

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

Low Bridge – east-end vicinity:

1st Ave. S. Bridge – alternate route across the river:

Highway 99: – 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 on this WSB page.

BRIDGE INFO: The @SDOTBridges Twitter feed shows whether the city’s movable bridges are opening for vessel traffic.

If you see trouble on the bridges/streets/paths/bay, please text or call us (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities). Thank you!

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FOLLOWUP: One more step toward Lincoln Park South, Westcrest Park play-area replacements
August 7, 2023 10:09 pm
|      8 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle parks

(Westcrest Park, reader photo by Jon from May 2021)

Two long-delayed West Seattle play-area projects are another step closer to finally happening. As we reported back in June, the Lincoln Park South and Westcrest Park play-area projects, bundled together, went out to bid. Bidding closed in mid-June with three bids received, but for weeks, the next step – awarding a contract – hadn’t been taken. Finally, the city bidding site shows, last week notice was given that the city intends to award the contract to the low bidder, LW Sundstrom, which bid $1,192,820. Seattle Parks spokesperson Karen O’Connor told us that “Our best estimate at this time is that construction may start late summer. Means & methods are to be determined by the contractor, so we do not know at this time which play area will be first.” Lincoln Park South has been awaiting replacement play equipment for six years; the closed structure at Westcrest has been awaiting a replacement for two years. Our archives show LW Sundstrom’s previous projects include the High Point Play Area renovation in 2018.

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WEST SEATTLE SCHOOLS: With district meetings starting this week, here’s what happened at board director Leslie Harris’s community chat
August 7, 2023 7:51 pm
|      22 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor

This week, Seattle Public Schools starts a series of community meetings to talk about the concept of “well-resourced schools.”

Our area’s school board director, Leslie Harris, wishes district managers would just describe the conversation as what it’s truly about: “Closures and consolidations.”

She made that comment Saturday afternoon during one of her periodic community-conversation availabilities, at which she was joined by another member of the board, Vivian Song Maritz (whose district stretches from downtown to Ballard), in the upstairs meeting room at Southwest Library. Only four community members showed up during the course of the hour and a half Harris was there, and none were there to talk about the looming “closures and consolidations” issue. But it was threaded through the discussion anyway.

Read More

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ELECTION 2023: Seattle City Council District 1 vote update
August 7, 2023 4:51 pm
|      58 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

One more week until the primary vote is finalized and certified, but from here on out it’s down to a daily trickle of ballots, if that. So with today’s update in, adding just a few more votes, we’re going to take one more look at how Seattle City Council District 1 shook out:

Maren Costa 8,760 33.15 %
Rob Saka 6,360 24.07 %
Phil Tavel 5,311 20.10 %
Preston Anderson 2,213 8.38 %
Stephen Brown 1,650 6.24 %
Jean Iannelli Craciun 836 3.16 %
Lucy Barefoot 766 2.90 %
Mia Jacobson 472 1.79 %

Turnout in this district is at 36.7 percent and not likely to move much beyond that. Top two finishers advance to the November 7th general election, for which voting will begin in mid-October.

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