West Seattle, Washington
10 Saturday
Still some color left on the horizon after this spectacular sunset, sixth-to-last of fall before the winter solsticr (post-sunset on Thursday). Thanks to James Bratsanos for the first two photos, above and below:
ADDED: From Jamie Kinney:
Lot of people out sunset-watching at Constellation Park, as Tony Tschanz shows us:
And the pink clouds lingered – here’s a later view from Chris Frankovich:
Another partly sunny day expected tomorrow!
Love soccer? Get ready to support the newly formed West Seattle Junction FC. Here’s the announcement about the team, which starts play next spring, but needs a show of community support right now:
West Seattle Junction FC, a pre-pro U-23 soccer club, is forming in our community and will debut in a series of 14 home/away matches and friendlies starting in mid-May 2024. Formed by a team of soccer enthusiasts that have supported our youth soccer community for over 25 years, this venture will bring a much needed platform for our most talented athletes to showcase their skills. The Club’s men’s team is planned for 2024 and the women’s team in 2025, competing in the USL W league.
The club aims to foster a strong connection to a hyper-local fanbase and create a memorable experience for fans, players, and everyone involved. They also intend to have a positive impact both on and off the field. Ticket sales will begin in early February with their schedule announcements and will be priced between $13.00 – $15.00 per ticket with a block of tickets set aside at no cost to provide accessibility to the entire fan base.
The team has already begun preparations for the upcoming season and will announce early January tryouts at Delridge Playfield within the next week through their social media pages. The coaching staff is currently being assembled, and they promise to bring a wealth of experience and expertise, ensuring that West Seattle Junction FC is well-prepared for the challenges and triumphs of USL2 competition. Competitors will include Ballard FC, the 2023 National Champions, OlyTown FC, PDX FC, and many more Northwest Division teams.
West Seattle Junction FC invites the community to join them on this exciting journey. Stay tuned for upcoming announcements, events, and opportunities to get involved. Follow the team on social media for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses as they prepare to make their mark in USL2.
Special note: Formation is not without its challenges. Their desired home field, Southwest Athletic Complex, a perfect location to host the West Seattle community and a soccer match, requires an application process through Parks and SPS.
Questions and concerns related to the Club’s use of the field persist and they have been unable to properly secure the 7 field reservations needed to host their home matches. The club would greatly appreciate a community show of support by providing written support in the Blog comments and/or an email that can be forwarded by the Club to the parties reviewing their application with your vote of support. Highline Soccer Association and its board members have all rendered full letters of support to the decision makers and now it’s time for the community to weigh in.
Email address is info@junctionfc.org – website (as linked above) is junctionfc.org.
Two reader reports that are FYIs if you’re out on foot:
DOWNED LIGHT POLES: The photo shows one of three that John noticed:
3 of the new light poles have been knocked down/damaged on the steps between Delridge and 20th on Holden.
John believes it happened during the past 48 hours.
TRAILER BLOCKING PATH: Ryan wonders if this trailer blocking a path at 47th/Stevens is abandoned/stolen:
In addition to reporting issues like these via Find It Fix It, you can also contact SDOT’s after-hours regarding right-of-way issues (stairways and paths as well as streets) at 206-386-1218.
Every holiday season, C & P Coffee (5612 California; WSB sponsor) opens its doors to local artists and crafters to sell their work, and today’s the day. Among this year’s participants is local artist Jennifer Carrasco, participating in the C & P fair one last time:
She’s scaling down what’s been a prolific painting career. Other sights include these wood figures by Josh and Jim from Vashon Island:
And nature-inspired art by Alma from A Wild Braid:
See what treasures you find by visiting the C & P fair before 2 pm.
(Friday night’s sunset – now a bit later every day! – photographed by Brian Michel)
Welcome to Saturday! Here’s what’s happening in West Seattle – first, the holiday-related lineup, from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide:
C & P HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR: 8 am-2 pm, shop local at C & P Coffee Company (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor) with local makers there to show and sell their creations.
DUWAMISH LONGHOUSE NATIVE ART MARKET: Missed the one after Thanksgiving? Here’s another chance to see and buy the creations of Native artists, 10 am-5:30 pm each day at the Duwamish Tribe Longhouse (4705 W. Marginal Way SW).
SANTA AT MY THREE LITTLE BIRDS: At 4736 California SW in The Junction:
Santa is making his annual visit to Three Little Birds: 10 am-1 pm. Families can sign in and then will be called when their turn comes. They CAN take their own photos, or have us take them as well, tell Santa what their Christmas wish is, and then get a treat to go. The cost is $5 per family.
ART UNWRAPPED!: Noon-5 pm at Jet City Labs (4547 California SW), “artist community meetup and pop-up market.”
ALEX BAIRD AT THRIFTWAY: Live holiday music at West Seattle Thriftway (4201 SW Morgan; WSB sponsor) with Alex Baird, noon-3 pm.
MARKET AND ANNIVERSARY: From Allison at Cascadia Wicks, one of the vendors: 1-5 pm market – with Santa at 4 pm – at Future Primitive’s White Center location, where FP is celebrating its 5th anniversary. Cascadia Wicks will be donating 10% of candle sales to White Center Food Bank. (9832 14th SW)
SEATTLE METROPOLITAN SINGERS: “A Ceremony of Winter Carols,” 3 pm, St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church (3050 California SW).
SANTA PUB CRAWL: Wear your Santa suit and join neighbors roaming between Junction bars and pubs. 5 pm-11 pm (locations here). Raising money for Furry Faces Foundation.
SANTA AT MENASHE FAMILY LIGHTS: St. Nick is scheduled to appear at West Seattle’s favorite Christmas-lights display (5605 Beach Drive SW) with two of his reindeer, 5-9 pm – hot cocoa will be served; and donations will b collected:
Donation Collections for WestSide Baby and West Seattle Food Bank. Donation bins will be set up at the Menashe home 5 – 9 pm. Most needed items for WestSide Baby: winter coats, hats and gloves, pajamas, rain books, blankets, books and toys, Pull Ups (sizes 2T – 5T) and diapers (sizes 3 – 6). Most needed items for the West Seattle Food Bank: non-perishable food (not opened, in good condition), shelf stable milk, healthy snacks, low-sodium and no-sugar foods, and pet food and kitty litter for their Pet Pantry.
ASTRA LUMINA: Celestially inspired light show starts at 5 pm on the grounds of the Seattle Chinese Garden at the north end of the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus, times and admission prices vary. Tickets and info here.
FESTIVAL OF TREES: At Fauntleroy UCC Fellowship Hall (9140 California SW): “Come see artistically decorated trees in a variety of themes. Bring non-perishable food items to ‘vote’ for your favorites.” 6-7 pm.
FAUNTLEROY CHURCH CONCERT: Come for the trees, then stay for the Christmas concert at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW), 7 pm.
‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’: The radio-play edition of Twelfth Night Productions‘ beloved show continues at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW), 7:30 pm – ticket info and other details on the Brown Paper Tickets website.
‘SNOWED IN’ SOLD OUT: ArtsWest (4711 California SW; WSB sponsor) presents its holiday production, described as a “a journey of song, dance, friendship, family, and the true meaning of the holidays.” 7:30 pm. No tickets available online – but you can doublecheck with the box office.
COOKIE’S FESTIVE MIRACLES: Holiday drag show at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW), 9 pm. 21+.
OUT AT THE BOX HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR: Holiday drag show at Box Bar (5401 California SW), 9:30 pm. 21+. Plus: “Box Bar will also be making $5 vegan Jell-O shots, with proceeds being donated to West Seattle Food Bank.”
*************Here are the non-holiday happenings, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
FREE GROUP RUN: Start your Saturday with this weekly West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW) group run! All levels welcome. Meet at the shop by 8 am.
HEAVILY MEDITATED: Arrive by 8:50 am for community meditation at Move2Center (3618 SW Alaska). Free event.
FREE WRITING GROUP: 10:30 am in West Seattle, registration required – see full details in our calendar listing.
FAMILY READING TIME: Every Saturday at 11 am at Paper Boat Booksellers (6040 California SW).
VIETNAMESE CULTURAL CENTER: The center is open to visitors noon-3 pm, as explained here. (2234 SW Orchard)
CELEBRATION OF LIFE FOR CHAS REDMOND: The longtime community advocate will be celebrated 1-4 pm at the Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon). RSVP here. At 2 pm, when a short program begins, a live stream is planned for those who can’t be there in person – here’s the link.
VISCON CELLARS: Tasting room open – wine by the glass or bottle – 1-6 pm at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor). Try the fall-release red wines!
BURGERS & BEATS: Saturday night food and music at Revelry Room – burgers start at 6, DJs at 9. (4547 California SW, alley side)
ALL-AGES OPEN MIC: 7-10 pm at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way)
‘GREAT NIGHT’: Saturday night program for young adults 18+ to hang out 7 pm-midnight, at Southwest Teen Life Center (2801 SW Thistle).
Planning a concert, open house, show, sale, event, meeting, seminar, reading, field trip, fundraiser, class, game, or holiday-season happening, or ? If the community’s welcome, get your event on our calendar! Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
If you’re planning to tree-shop this weekend, two updates to the lot list in our West Seattle Holiday Guide:
(WSB photo, Holy Rosary lot last month)
HOLY ROSARY TREE LOT: Today (Saturday, December 16) is your last chance to shop this lot on the north side of the Holy Rosary campus (42nd SW between Dakota and Genesee):
Last day for the Holy Rosary tree lot. Still a good selection of fresh trees, wreaths, garland, and Hope Lutheran’s poinsettias. Opens 9 AM and closes when all items have sold. Stop on in and support the West Seattle Food Bank by bringing 5 cans of food and getting $5 off.
A portion of the lot’s proceeds go to nonprofits including WSFB. AFTERNOON UPDATE: As of noon, everything is half-price!
TREES BY THE SEA: The tree lot on Alki sold out earlier this week and is now closed for the season.
The photo is from Providence Mount St. Vincent, which welcomed a special pre-Christmas gift delivery today:
The Nucor team is hereby decreed to be THE best Santa’s elves this side of the North Pole as they deliver once again carloads of gifts and support to help make Christmas bright for the residents and caregivers of Providence Mount St. Vincent! This annual tradition yet again showcases the tremendous generosity of Nucor as they help so many in need throughout West Seattle.
Back on December 4th, we reported on the case against a West Seattle 16-year-old charged in five October crimes including two West Seattle carjackings and one robbery. Thursday was the date set for a review of whether he’d continue to be held in juvenile detention while awaiting trial, so we checked the online files, and found out another robbery charge was filed against him three days after our previous report. This one is for an armed robbery at a 7-11 in Kent in early November. We’ve also learned that another teenage suspect has been charged in related King County cases, though not – so far – in any West Seattle cases. First, the status of the West Seattle 16-year-old: He continues to be held in juvenile detention, with his status to be considered again next week – on Thursday, December 21st – when he is arraigned on the new charge filed against him. It’s one count of first-degree robbery with display of a deadly weapon. The charging documents say that, as in the other cases, the suspect was linked to this one through cell-phone records and security-camera images showing a distinctive sweatshirt.
They also reveal a little more information about his arrest near his home at 12th/Roxbury, saying he was carrying a backpack that held a loaded handgun, camo face mask, and black gloves, and that a search of his home subsequently yielded some of the apparel matching what security-camera images showed. As for the other suspect, we looked into his files too – he’s a 17-year-old Kent resident, charged with three counts of first-degree robbery and two counts of attempted first-degree robbery, all related to incidents in Kent and elsewhere in South King County. He was arrested at his home November 13th and has been in juvenile detention since then; his next hearing is in mid-January. No mention of other arrests, but we’ll keep watching court files.
Thanks to Ryan for the report and photos of a safety hazard at 48th/Hinds [map]:
Avoid NE corner of 48th and Hinds!!! 10-15 foot hole underneath a piece of thin form!!
I put cones on it but it will be a tragic accident.
I called 911 as well.
What if Rudolph had the night off? That’s the theme of this tree we admired while visiting the Fauntleroy UCC Festival of Trees on its first public-display night earlier this week.
Another tree that might make you smile … the one with a Costco theme:
And then there’s the tree decked with hopes for peace, in many languages:
The festival doubles as a food drive – bring nonperishable food to donate and leave it under your favorite tree to “vote” for it. During our visit, this tree was the front-runner:
We learned that’s because it’s the entry from Alki UCC and that apparently brought a concentrated voting effort! In addition to the food drive, you can also have fun with a scavenger hunt while you’re there – check the 13 trees in the church Fellowship Hall for certain words or items. It’s open to viewing Saturday night, 6-7 pm, at 9140 California SW – right before the church’s free Christmas concert.
(WSB photo: District 1 Councilmember-elect Rob Saka with Mayor Bruce Harrell)
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
Two and a half weeks after election results were finalized, the five newly elected Seattle City Councilmembers-to-be – including District 1’s Rob Saka – answered media questions this morning after a mayoral welcome.
We were there for the event on the mayor’s floor atop City Hall. Mayor Bruce Harrell started his welcome speech by explaining staffers have been meeting with the “new cast of characters” for the past week. (In addition to Saka, the “new cast” is District 3’s Joy Hollingsworth, succeeding Kshama Sawant; District 4’s Maritza Rivera, succeeding Alex Pedersen; District 5’s Cathy Moore, succeeding Debora Juarez; , and District 7’s Bob Kettle, the only one to take office by defeating an incumbent, Andrew Lewis. There will be a sixth new councilmember next month, when the council appoints someone to fill the citywide seat Teresa Mosqueda is leaving to join the King County Council.) Here are the mayor’s opening remarks:
Harrell suggested the new councilmembers can’t be put in a “binary box” of political ideology, but instead are “committed to get stuff done.” He also noted their range of “lived experience” with a list of attributes major and minor, from “two veterans” (Saka and Kettle) to “two dog owners.” He also insisted that he and the departing councilmembers “did some marvelous work together,” ticking off more stats, such as the council passing all 344 bills he sent them and that he only vetoed one council bill. “I want to dispel the notion that things were so bad we got nothing done … we got a lot done.”
So what do the newly elected councilmembers-elecct want to do? Each got a turn at the microphone before the floor was opened to questions. Here’s what Councilmember-elect Saka said:
He promised he would “be a servant to the residents of District 1” and assessed the changes as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity to usher in a new culture at City Hall,” promising he and his new colleagues could “disagree without being disagreeable.” When Q&A time came, we noted that he had campaigned on “public safety, public safety, public safety” and asked what he planned to do first to try to improve it:
(It should be noted here that the mayor said a bit later in response to a reporter question that crime rates are going down.) In short, Saka didn’t mention a specific propodal but said he’d “work collaboratively with the mayor” and that more officers had to be hired – the hiring incentives don’t seem to be working – plus the alternative CARE Team must “grow and scale.”
Harrell had more to say about public safety in answering questions about his goals for the year ahead, mentioning “new ideas” – referring to the budgeted gunshot-locator technology as one of those, along with “CCTV cameras” (we’re checking on which cameras he was referring to). He also declared that “crime rates are going down.”
To see what the other councilmembers-elect said, the entire event was streamed by Seattle Channel; we’ll link their recording when it’s available. Councilmember-elect Hollingsworth had a notable observation – “We didn’t just want the job title, we want to do the job.” That will formally start when they’re sworn in January 2nd.
Going to Monday night’s Seahawks game? Metro invites you to travel by water:
On December 18, 2023, the West Seattle Water Taxi will be running extended service for the Seahawks game against Philadelphia. In addition to the regular service, the following departures have been added:
Departs Pier 50 to West Seattle/Departs West Seattle to Pier 50
7:30 p.m./8:00 p.m.
8:30 p.m./9:00 p.m.
9:30 p.m./10:00 p.m.
10:45 p.m./11:00 p.m.The Water Taxi Shuttle (Routes 773 and 775) will be in service for the added sailings to get you from the dock to the West Seattle Junction and the Admiral District after the game.
The West Seattle Preschool Fair is back! If you’re interested in exploring options for a young family member, this will be the place and time to do it – at least 14 local preschool providers are expected to be there. It’s after the holidays, but we thought a heads-up now might be helpful before the holiday season hits its crescendo so you can mark your calendar before too many distractions rush in. The West Seattle Preschool Fair is set for 5:30-7 pm Monday, January 8th, in the Menashe Gym at Hope Lutheran North (4100 SW Genesee). Hope Lutheran and Westside School (WSB sponsor) are coordinating it and are two of the participants; if you have questions before the event, you can contact Ted Holmes at Westside, tedh@westsideschool.org or 206-932-2511.
(Photo by Jerry Simmons)
A two-part list for today/tonight! First, from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide:
FILM HISTORY OF THE HOLIDAYS: 11 am at the Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon) – “In celebration of the holiday season, film historian Lance Rhoades will share favorite stories from classic live-action movies such as It’s a Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street and A Christmas Story and from great animated films, including Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, A Charlie Brown Christmas and How the Grinch Stole Christmas. We’ll also discuss all-inclusive faith celebrations.” $10. RSVP.
SANTA AND GRINCH PHOTO FUNDRAISER: Photos to raise money for West Seattle-based nonprofit Stephanie’s Lifeline, 4-7 pm at The Blu Grouse. (9839 17th SW)
DONATION DRIVE AT MENASHE FAMILY LIGHTS: Going to see West Seattle’s best-known Christmas lights display? Bring a donation if you can:
Donation Collections for WestSide Baby and West Seattle Food Bank. Donation bins will be set up at the Menashe home, 5 – 9 pm at 5605 Beach Drive SW. Most needed items for WestSide Baby: winter coats, hats and gloves, pajamas, rain books, blankets, books and toys, Pull Ups (sizes 2T – 5T) and diapers (sizes 3 – 6). Most needed items for the West Seattle Food Bank: non-perishable food (not opened, in good condition), shelf stable milk, healthy snacks, low-sodium and no-sugar foods, and pet food and kitty litter for their Pet Pantry.
(5605 Beach Drive SW)
ASTRA LUMINA: Celestially inspired light show on the grounds of the Seattle Chinese Garden at the north end of the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus continues tonight, 5 pm. Timed tickets and pricing info here.
SEATTLE GIRLS CHOIR: 7:30 pm at Holy Rosary (42nd/Genesee), Seattle Girls Choir presents “Carmina Angelorum.” (Follow that link for concert and ticket info.)
‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’: The radio-play edition of Twelfth Night Productions‘ beloved show continues at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW), 7:30 pm – ticket info and other details on the Brown Paper Tickets website.
‘SNOWED IN’: ArtsWest (4711 California SW; WSB sponsor) presents its holiday production, described as a “a journey of song, dance, friendship, family, and the true meaning of the holidays.” 7:30 pm. Check for tickets are here.
And from the year-round WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
NEW COUNCILMEMBERS AT CITY HALL: District 1 Councilmember-elect Rob Saka and the four other newly elected councilmembers make their first group public appearance at City Hall during an official welcome from Mayor Bruce Harrell and media Q/A. You can watch live via Seattle Channel at 9:30 am.
TODDLER GYM: Free drop-in gym at Arbor Heights Community Church, 10 am-11:30 am. (4113 SW 102nd)
SCRABBLE CLUB: Play 12:30-1:30 pm at Margie’s Café inside the Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon).
VISCON CELLARS: Tasting room/wine bar open – wine by the glass or bottle – 5-9 pm at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor). Try the fall-release red wines!
MEDEJIN AT EASY STREET RECORDS: In-store show, 7 pm – free, all ages. (4559 California SW)
DANCE NIGHT AT THE SPOT: Fridays are DJ Dance Night at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way), 7-10 pm.
SOUND & ACUPUNCTURE: 7:30 pm at Move2Center (3618 SW Alaska), $45.
LIVE MUSIC AT THE SKYLARK: Levitating, Thatsnokay, Trances, doors at 7, show at 8. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
DJ NIGHT AT REVELRY ROOM: Music 9 pm-1 am on Fridays! (4547 California SW)
Something to add to our calendar and/or Holiday Guide? westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
Family and friends are remembering Leon Ufkes and sharing this remembrance with the community:
Leon B. Ufkes (1926-2023)
Tami Ufkes-Schendel and Mark L. Ufkes announce the recent death of their 96-year old dad. Leon was a resident at West Seattle’s Quail Park memory facility, where wonderful staff cared for him. Raised in Illinois on the family farm, at age 17, Dad enlisted into the US Navy during World War II. He was trained as a “fighting Seabee” Naval engineer, stationed in Guam, to prepare for the invasion of the main island of Japan. He was part of an engineering battalion slated to be in the third landing wave and was told that they could expect a 70% casualty rate. During final training, the US dropped two atomic bombs on Japan, ending the war. Dad said many times that those atomic bombs saved his life. As a result, he dedicated his entire career to the nuclear industry.
After the war, Dad used the GI bill to attend Virginia Tech, completing a B.S. degree in chemical engineering. His first engineering job, at age 26, Dad was issued a “Q” top secret security clearance and was put in charge of a 5-person team to pack high explosives into atomic bombs that would be used to trigger the nuclear explosion. He was proud that his ideas were used to make the atomic bomb assembly process safer.
In 1954, he met and married Iris R. Adkins, his secretary (and our mom), who could type 90 words a minute on a manual typewriter, was a state-level women’s high school basketball star, and “had great legs and a beautiful singing voice”, according to Dad. In 1955, Dad was invited to the Hanford Nuclear reservation in Richland, Washington to assist in operating plutonium producing reactors built during the cold war with the Soviet Union. Dad was a lead Hanford operating engineer for much of his career, proud to have worked at historic B-Reactor, using the same office that famous physicist Enrico Fermi used in 1945 to help end World War II. Later, Dad did early work on the “glassification” of nuclear waste for safer storage.
Dad fell in love with the mountains of the west. We learned how to ski as we learned to walk, and constantly went camping in the Cascade mountains. As a family, we hiked most of the coast of Washington and climbed Mt. Adams and Mt. Hood a dozen times. Dad volunteered as a Scoutmaster, and for decades, lead a large group to summit Mt. Adams every Labor Day.
Dad became a single parent in 1972, when our spectacular mom died of colon cancer at age 43. Dad and Mom taught us that college education gives opportunities we can’t imagine. They were right. Between three children and six grandchildren, there are 14 college degrees, including four advanced degrees and two medical doctors. Collectively, our careers have allowed us to serve the human condition all over the US and the world.
Dad played tennis, loved dancing (“all the women want to dance with me, Mark!”), and walked 3 miles a day until age 84 when he was severely injured after falling off a roof while pruning a tree.
A memorial plaque for Mom and Dad was installed at the summit of the Candy Mountain Hiking Preserve, a park and 1.5 mile trail near Richland. His son Mark, and daughter-in-law Lois Schipper, used their 120 acres to help create a public park there instead of developing housing. Dad loved the fact that over 60,000 hikers climb Candy Mountain each year and can sit on beautiful basalt column benches at the summit, with a grand view of the mighty Columbia River, 1,000 feet above the town where Dad raised our family and served our country.
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
6:00 AM: Good morning. It’s Friday, December 15, last day of school before winter break.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
Partly sunny today, high in the low 50s. Today’s sunrise will be at 7:50 am, and the sun will set at 4:18 pm. (As of today, sunsets start getting later!)
Metro – Regular schedule today; check advisories here.
Water Taxi – Regular schedule today. Watch the real-time map if wondering where the boat is.
Washington State Ferries – 2-boat service on the Triangle Route. Check alerts for changes, and use the real-time map to see where your ferry is.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
Delridge cameras: Besides the one below (Delridge/Orchard), cameras are also at Delridge/Genesee, Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, 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:
1st Ave. S. Bridge – another 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 feed on Twitter/X 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 that safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if applicable). Thank you!
The photo is from Ryan, whose much-awaited mega-display (130,000+ LEDs!) makes its return tomorrow night:
After months of preparation, the winter holiday show at the 4040 House will start this Friday at 6 pm! We have even more lights and more music this year!
The show runs nightly until January 1 from 6 pm-9 pm.
This year we have over 30 songs and the jukebox returns so people can request their favorite tunes! The show is located at 4040 47th Ave SW between Dakota and Andover. We ask if people drive down, please park on Dakota or Andover and walk over.
(You might remember Ryan’s Halloween show.) Lots more info, including FAQ, at 4040house.com. … Go here to see all the displays we’ve featured already, and if you have a suggestion, please send the info – with or without photo/video – to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
5:32 PM: Hectic night for Santa Claus as the holiday edition of the West Seattle Art Walk begins. You’ll find him first at West Seattle Realty (2715 California SW; WSB sponsor). It’s one of the official stops on the Art Walk list/map:
WS Realty also is showing the work of artist Brandi Quinn, who works in mixed media/acrylic. In Admiral, two other spots are offering extras tonight – here’s the map and list of Admiral participants:
West Seattle Grounds (2141 California SW) is also where you’ll find Sue Quigley, one of the three musicians performing mini-concerts for The Art of Music, 6-7:30 pm, as featured here. We’re headed southbound to The Junction, where starting at 6 pm, the Silver Belles will be singing, the Better As Brass Band will be blowing their horns, and that busy Santa guy will be roaming. More coverage to come.
5:54 PM: Above is Michael Doyle, one of the artists at a Holiday Bazaar inside Easy Street Records (4559 California SW) during the Art Walk. He’s selling “fun whimsical postcards and greeting cards,” plus art prints and original painting.” Jet City Beignet also is in the house. And ESR has tunes, too – “DJs Fishlure and Mike Steve – spinning all your holiday favorites.” … A bit south, Thoa Nguyen is the featured artist at ArtsWest (4711 California SW; WSB sponsor), in the gallery until 7 pm:
Her paintings are on display at ArtsWest until January 8th.
6:30 PM: We found Santa in The Junction, stopping by VAIN West Seattle (4513 California SW):
VAIN is showcasing fragrance tonight – with The Phoenix and The Fool, as well as the Seattle Perfumers Discovery Set (among the participants in that set is WSB sponsor Filigree & Shadow). Like most of tonight’s artist-reception events, this one continues until 8 pm … At CAPERS (4511 California SW), two artists are in the spotlight tonight, including glass artist Melissa Misoda:
We’ve also caught up with the Silver Belles carolers and Better As Brass band – video of both when we get back to HQ.
8:32 PM: Here’s part of an original song that was in the Silver Belles’ repertoire tonight:
And Better As Brass is in our clip with part of a TV-show classic:
BAB is scheduled to be in The Junction again next Thursday night too, for the season’s final Shop Late Thursday.
(WSB photos)
This is the eighth and final night of Hanukkah, and the second year the Torah Learning Center of West Seattle has lit a 12-foot-high Grand Menorah at Alki Beach. Rabbi Eli Duban climbed a ladder with a tiki torch to set the eight lights – one for each night – ablaze:
He spoke briefly about the light of the Jewish spirit triumphing over antisemitism, and had words of gratitude (update: here’s the video):
The gathering also had a festive note, with songs and treats (jelly donuts and chocolate coins).
Two reader reports in West Seattle Crime Watch:
STOLEN SILVERADO: The photo and report are from Sandra:
My Chevrolet Silverado 2005 truck was stolen from my street last night at 5:30 am.
It was parked beside my house. 1 block from tennis court off Fauntleroy close to 76 gas station at Lincoln Park.
As shown in the photo, C52778N is the plate. We’ll add the police report # when we get it.
MAILBOX BREAK-IN: Reported by Stefan, in the 4300 block of SW Trenton:
Just a heads-up that I went out this morning to find our locked mailbox pried open, along with some others down our street. Must have happened last night or early this morning. Some mail/packages were definitely stolen. Submitted details to the Postal Inspection Service. Case ID: 58311372
(WSB photo from March)
The proposal for 11 residences at 6504 24th SW [map] continues to make its way through the permit process. Tree advocates plan a demonstration there Saturday afternoon to renew attention to the plan for tree removal, with concerns including its proximity to Longfellow Creek. We last wrote about the project back in March, when the city convened a community-requested public meeting for comments (WSB coverage here), most of which were focused on the trees. As we reported at the time, an arborist’s report showed more than 50 “exceptional” trees on the site, and noted more than 30 could be removed. (Here’s the current plan set.) Permit files also show the developers seeking an exemption for part of an “environmentally critical area” on the site. Tree Action Seattle notes that – as discussed in our March report – housing could be built on the site with far fewer tree removals. It plans to gather and “ask for change” at 1 pm Saturday. (Thanks to reader Julia for the tip on this.)
(Highland Park’s big bird in the holiday spirit – photo sent by GB)
If you haven’t seen all this on our Event Calendar or in our Holiday Guide, the daily list is one last reminder of everything ahead today/tonight:
UNDERSTANDING MEDICARE: Informational presentation at the Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon), 11 am.
WEST SEATTLE UKULELE PLAYERS: All levels welcome to this weekly 1 pm gathering. Email westseattleukuleleplayerswsup@gmail.com for an update on where they’re playing today.
GRAND MENORAH LIGHTING: For the eighth and final night of Hanukkah, the Torah Learning Center of West Seattle will light its 12-foot-tall Grand Menorah near the Alki Bathhouse, 4 pm. (60th/Alki)
THURSDAY FOOD-TRUCK POP-UP: 4-8 pm at Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW), Thai-U-Up will be visiting.
HIGHLAND PARK RUN CLUB: Also at HP Corner Store, meet up at 6:30 pm for a 3-mile run.
WEST SEATTLE ART WALK, HOLIDAY EDITION: As previewed here – lots to enjoy. Starting at 5 pm, tonight not only is your monthly chance to visit venues all around the peninsula to see art, meet artists (here’s this month’s lineup), and/or enjoy food/drink specials, but also to enjoy extras:
*Silver Belles caroling in The Junction (6-8 pm, various locations)
*Roaming Santa in The Junction
*Better As Brass Band in The Junction (6-7:30ish, California/Alaska)
*The Art of Music at three venues, 6-7:45 pm – here’s all the info on who’s where
*Admiral District holiday activities including Santa at West Seattle Realty (WSB sponsor) – here’s all the info
SHOP LATE THURSDAY IN THE JUNCTION: Some shops are keeping their doors open until at least 8 pm!
GIFT WRAPPING WITH CLAY CAULDRON: 5-8 pm at Jet City Labs (4547 California SW)
ASTRA LUMINA: Celestially inspired light show on the grounds of the Seattle Chinese Garden at the north end of the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus, starting at 5 pm. Timed tickets and info here.
WORDS, WRITERS, SOUTHWEST STORIES: As previewed here, the Southwest Seattle Historical Society‘s online speaker series features King Khazm and “Hip Hop and It Don’t Stop” tonight, 6 pm. Register here to get the link.
BREWER’S NIGHT: Beer Star in White Center invites you to a Brewer’s Night with Chuckanut Brewing, 6-8 pm. (16th/98th)
WESTIES RUN CLUB: Meet at Future Primitive Beer Bar (2536 Alki SW) at 6:30 pm for a 3-mile run – more in our calendar listing.
WEST SEATTLE HIGH SCHOOL CONCERT: Third of three, tonight featuring the Concert Band, Symphonic Band, and Percussion Ensemble, 7 pm, WSHS Theater. (3000 California SW)
BLUES NIGHT: 7 pm at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way), every Thursday you can listen to the blues.
YOGA, BREATH WORK, GONG BATH, MORE: 7 pm at Move2Center (3618 SW Alaska), $35.
‘SNOWED IN’: ArtsWest (4711 California SW; WSB sponsor) presents its holiday production, described as a “a journey of song, dance, friendship, family, and the true meaning of the holidays.” 7:30 pm. Check for tickets here.
Throughout the season, our <West Seattle Holiday Guide features a list of local donation drives that welcome your help. Some of them are about to wrap up so that the beneficiary organizations have time to get the gifts to recipients, so we’re nudging you in case you’ve been meaning to drop something off. Here are three that are about to conclude:
JOY DRIVE FOR WESTSIDE BABY AT VILLAGE GREEN: Through today, Village Green West Seattle (2615 SW Barton; WSB sponsor) is collecting items for WestSide Baby – see this flyer for the wish list. Bring donations to Building 2 (The Hearthside).
TREEHOUSE DONATION DRIVE AT ALKI BIKE AND BOARD: Tomorrow is the last day for this drive.You can go here to see what Alki Bike and Board (2606 California SW; WSB sponsor) is collecting. One request: “Please make sure all items are NEW or in GREAT used condition.”
ADOPT-A-FAMILY ASSISTANCE: Also concluding tomorrow: West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor) has adopted a family for holiday help – details here.
Some others have later deadlines, and our Holiday Guide list also includes some requests for monetary donations. Any last-minute additions? Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
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