West Seattle, Washington
13 Sunday
Police checking out reports of possible gunfire have found confirmation of it. They have found “bullet damage to a street sign” and a “bullet fragment” at 29th and Kenyon. 911 got at least three calls – and we got a text – hearing what was described as “rapid gunshots … followed by a single shot,” just before 11:30 pm. No report of injuries.
A busier-than-usual Sunday news stream swept away our chance to show you this until now, but it’s too cute to just skip. Every August, the Neighborhood Farmers’ Markets offer kids the chance to use free zucchinis and accessories to build and race “vegetable vehicles,” and yesterday was West Seattle kids’ turn. Above is our video of two young racers giving it a try. Volunteers, including members of the Kiwanis Club of West Seattle, helped kids pick out the components:
Then, the task of creating that “vegetable vehicle”:
And the final touches before moving on to the track:
The Zucchini 500 is on its way next to the farmers’ markets in Lake City, Columbia City, and Magnolia.
Eight years ago, we reported on Azuma Sushi in The Junction closing on Sundays after 16 years of being open every single day. Now, owners Harry and Jennifer are going to get a more extensive break – they’re retiring, after running their restaurant for almost a quarter-century! But Azuma Sushi will stay open, and will even bring back sit-down dining. Here’s the announcement sent to us:
Azuma Sushi Transitioning to New Ownership
In some ways, it seems like only yesterday that we first opened our doors. But January 18, 2000 is more than twenty four and a half years ago now! Starting from that very first day, West Seattle has welcomed us with open arms, and we are so grateful to our customers, old and new, for helping us build a successful business, and really, achieve the American dream. You have been with us through so many ups and downs through the years, and we couldn’t have done it without your support. That is especially true of the recent pandemic, which tested all of us so much. It has been such a joy to get to know you, see your kids grow up, and become friends with you. Our family, including our kids (who you may remember helping out from time to time), has so many fond memories of the times we all shared together.
That is why it is bittersweet to announce that we are retiring, and that Azuma Sushi will be transitioning to new ownership. August 30th will be our last day. After that, Azuma will be closed for about a month, until the reopening date of September 28th. Don’t worry, we are keeping things in the Azuma family and will be around in the fall (with reduced hours!) to help with the transition to new ownership. We are excited to see where Jenny (a former waitress that many of you probably remember) will take things and know that you will be excited to once again be able to dine in at Azuma. We hope that you will embrace the new Azuma and that it can continue to be a part of the West Seattle community for many years to come.
Thank you, again, from the bottom of our hearts. It has been a pleasure to serve you, and we will miss seeing you all.
– Harry and Jennifer
Azuma Sushi is at 4533 California SW.
(SDOT traffic-cam view of work zone, looking west toward West Seattle Bridge, on Sunday)
As noted in our morning traffic roundup, we asked SDOT for this week’s schedule of which lanes will be closed and when, as the Spokane Street Viaduct resurfacing project continues. Here’s what they’ve provided – with the caveat that it’s always possible there’ll be a last-minute change:
7 PM, Aug 12 (Mon Night, tonight) to 6 AM, Aug 13
Eastbound Left Lanes closed
Eastbound ramp to SR 99 open – 1st Ave & 4th Ave ramps open7 PM, Aug 13 (Tue Night) to 6 AM, Aug 14
Eastbound Left Lanes closed
Eastbound ramp to SR 99 open – 1st Ave & 4th Ave ramps open7 PM, Aug 14 (Wed Night) to 6 AM, Aug 15
Eastbound Left Lanes closed
Eastbound ramp to SR 99 open – 1st Ave & 4th Ave ramps open7 PM, Aug 15 (Thur Night) to 6 AM, Aug 16
Eastbound Left Lanes closed
Eastbound ramp to SR 99 open – 1st Ave & 4th Ave ramps open7 PM-10 PM, Fri Aug 16
Eastbound Two Left Lanes closed
Eastbound ramp to SR 99 open – 1st Ave & 4th Ave ramps open10 PM, Aug 16 (Fri Night) to 5 AM, Aug 19 (next Monday_
All Eastbound Lanes closed
Westbound Single Left Lane closed
1st Ave ramp open – 4th Ave ramp open
Eastbound ramp to SR 99 open
Northbound 1-5 off ramp to westbound Spokane Viaduct closed; ramp to Lower Spokane Street remains open
This week’s schedule is also now on the project website.
1:53 PM: Just issued a few minutes ago:
(poster removed after confirmation that missing man was found)
10:20 PM: Per emergency radio, the missing man has been found in a ditch behind his house and SFD has been sent to help get him out. We don’t know his condition but will check with SFD later.
ADDED TUESDAY: SFD tells us the 77-year-old man was in stable condition when their medics checked him out and did not need to be taken to a hospital.
12:42 PM: Seattle Fire is sending a “full response” to the 5000 block of Delridge Way SW. Avoid the area. Updates to come.
12:46 PM: Dispatch says caller reported flames and smoke from a Full Gospel Pentecostal Church building at 5071 Delridge [map]. First units arriving confirm it’s a “working fire” and that they’re seeing “heavy fire” from one side.
12:50 PM: Firefighters now say the fire is in a “detached building” on the church property and is under control. Delridge, meantime, will be blocked both ways between Edmunds and Brandon, per police.
12:58 PM: Though they declared it “under control,” the fire is nowhere near out yet. They’re calling for more units. Our crew heading to the scene says smoke is still visible from a distance. Here’s a photo Samuel sent from High Point:
See comments below for other photos of the smoke. No report of injuries so far.
1:10 PM: Added photos now that our crew is there. They report the “detached building” is to the west of (behind) the church’s main Delridge-fronting building, and separated by just a few feet.
(Added: WSB video)
1:25 PM: SFD has called the fire “tapped” (mostly out). Our crew has spoken to someone from the church, who tells us the building where the fire started is used as a clothing bank and kitchen, plus meeting spaces for some groups to which the church rents space. We’re waiting now to hear from SFD spokespeople on scene.
1:40 PM: We’ve talked with SFD and will add that video when back at HQ. They said the fire did extend a bit into the main church building. Meanwhile, the response is starting to downsize.
2:15 PM: Here’s the briefing video – mostly what is already reported above, except that three buildings in all were damaged:
That’s SFD spokesperson David Cuerpo. The fire’s cause hasn’t yet been determined; investigators are working on that.
TUESDAY UPDATE: We checked back today. According to spokesperson Cuerpo, “Investigators determined the fire was accidental. Originating in a kitchen, then extending to a dining area.”
Two West Seattle Crime Watch reports:
BAG THEFT: This happened in the past hour, reported by text:
Just had a tote bag snagged, 26th and Genesee, beige canvas Sounders bag. Had our laptop and other restaurant papers in it. I know the laptop is probably gone but if anyone sends in a found on the side of the road we love the rest of the paperwork back. It was in the parking strip grass while loading the car.
No police report number yet. If you find the bag, let us know and we’ll connect you with the victim.
BURGLARY ATTEMPT: This happened early Sunday:
That’s one of three people who tried to break into a house in the 6500 block of Beach Drive SW, according to Autumn. She says the break-in happened just after 12:30 am. They parked nearby, “came up the driveway, scoped the house. The woman then knocked on the door and was captured by the Ring camera. After no one answered the door she and the men broke the glass door on the lower-level entrance. The house alarm sounded loudly and they all three ran down the driveway to the car and drove away.” This video shows them running back to the vehicle:
Here’s a closer look at the car:
If you have any information, the incident number is 24-224442.
(Scrub-jay at sunset, photographed in July by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)
Here’s the list for your Monday, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
GLASS FLOAT HUNT: Day 12 of the hunt for hidden glass floats around West Seattle – here’s how to join the search before it ends in a few days!
BABY STORY TIME: Bring little ones up to 2 years old to Southwest Library (9010 35th SW), noon-12:30 pm, for story time!
COLMAN POOL: The outdoor heated-salt-water pool on the shore at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW) is open to the public today, noon-7 pm – session times are on the Colman Pool webpage.
LINCOLN PARK WADING POOL: Elsewhere at Lincoln Park, you’ll find this 7-days-a-week city wading pool, noon-7 pm, in the central upper part of the park near the north play area.
E.C. HUGHES WADING POOL: Also open noon-7 pm. (2805 SW Holden)
CHERRY CONSIGNMENT’S 15TH ANNIVERSARY: Final day of the shop‘s celebration: “We’re doing a no appointment needed ‘drop and shop’ on Monday, 8/12, from 1 to 3 pm. Your chance to drop off 10 or less pristine items that we’ll process as we are able.” (4142 California SW)
CITY COUNCIL BRIEFING MEETING: 2 pm at City Hall, the weekly meeting in which councilmembers talk about their plans for the week ahead. Here’s the agenda. Watch live via Seattle Channel.
ART SALON: 4-6 pm at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor):
This is a monthly gathering of artistic, creative people interested in drawing, painting, printing, journaling, collaging and other creative pursuits. The purpose of this gathering is to provide encouragement and community. Creative people at all stages of development, both casual and professional, are welcome but this gathering is especially for beginners, people who are self-taught, and/or those who simply enjoy making art and think a monthly social gathering will help them make time each month for art!
GET CRAFTY: 6-10 pm, Monday brings “Crafting and Creativity Night” at The Missing Piece (9456 35th SW), info here.
D&D: Weekly D&D at 6:30 pm at Meeples Games (3727 California SW). All welcome, first-time players too.
MONDAY NIGHT TRIVIA! Three places to play tonight – 7 pm at The Good Society (California/Lander); 7 and 8 pm Sporcle Pub Quiz at Three 9 Lounge (4505 39th SW); 7:30 pm with QuizFix at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW)
MEDITATION IN FAUNTLEROY: All welcome at free weekly Zen sitting/meditation in the chapel at Fauntleroy UCC (9140 California SW), 7 pm-8:30 pm.
MEDITATION IN ALKI: The Alki Dharma Community hosts meditation at Alki UCC (6115 SW Hinds), 7-8:30 pm.
MUSIC AT THE ALLEY: Listen to live music from The Westside Trio, 8 pm at The Alley (behind 4509 California SW), 21+, no cover.
SING TONIGHT! 9 pm start for Monday night karaoke at Talarico’s Pizzeria (4718 California SW).
If you have a West Seattle/White Center event to add to our calendar, please send the info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
Congratulations to a West Seattleite just announced as a scholarship honoree by the Seattle chapter of AAUW – here’s the announcement they asked us to share with you:
Hannah Kelly, a resident of West Seattle, has been awarded a $7,000 scholarship by AAUW Seattle. She is a senior at Western Washington University majoring in psychology with a minor in disability studies. Hannah aspires to work as an occupational therapist for children with special needs. She says that occupational therapy bridges her love of psychology with teaching practical skills. For several years in high school she was a mentor with Athletes for Kids, where she worked with special-needs children. In college she serves on the support staff for Western’s Disability Access Center.
Each year AAUW Seattle offers up to three scholarships to full-time undergraduate students who attend a public WA college/university and show evidence of financial need. Applicants must have graduated from a high school in King County. AAUW Seattle Branch is one of over 1,000 local affiliate branches of the national AAUW organization. AAUW Seattle’s mission is “to advance gender equity through research, education, and advocacy.”
To learn more about AAUW Seattle, visit aauw-seattle.org. To learn more about our scholarships, visit aauw-seattle.org/what-we-do/college-scholarships.
6:00 AM: Good morning! It’s Monday, August 12.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
Today’s forecast: Becoming sunny, high in the low 70s. Today’s sunrise will be at 6:02 am, while sunset will be at 8:25 pm.
TRANSIT NOTES
Water Taxi today – Regular schedule for both routes.
Metro buses today – Regular schedules; check for advisories here.
Washington State Ferries today – 2 boats on the Triangle Route, and the unscheduled third boat may be available. Check that link before you sail.
SPOKANE ST. VIADUCT CLOSURES
We’re awaiting this week’s full schedule for the Spokane Street Viaduct resurfacing project, after this past weekend’s closure (which did, unlike the previous weekend, continue into the early morning hours of Monday).
OTHER ROAD WORK NOTES
*Today’s the first possible day of a change from the East Marginal Way S. project, particularly of note for people who travel by bike between downtown and West Seattle:
WHAT: Updated detour route for people biking on East Marginal Way S
WHEN: Starting as soon as August 12 and lasting for several weeks
WHERE: People biking will be routed onto the street of E Marginal Way S in temporary protected bike lanes from S Spokane St to north of the Terminal 30 parking lot at approximately S Stacy St. At the T30 parking lot / S Stacy St, people will be routed back into the existing bike lanes and sidewalk on the west side of the street. Please note that the T30 parking lot is south of the main T30 entrance.
*The Admiral Way Bridge seismic project is in progress. Fairmount Avenue is closed under the bridge for the duration of the project, at least into early 2025. Lane closures have begun on the top deck too.
*The Delridge pedestrian-bridge earthquake-safety project also continues, with narrowing at Delridge/Oregon.
*Beach Drive: Gas-pipeline work continues at spots along the southern stretch. Watch for no-parking zones and steel plates, plus flaggers.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS (Some important cameras are back but some others remain out)
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera:
Low bridge: Here’s the main view:
1st Avenue South Bridge:
Delridge cameras: Besides the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.
MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here; West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras are on this WSB page.
BRIDGE INFO: The @SDOTBridges feed on X (ex-Twitter) shows whether the city’s movable bridges are open for vessel traffic.
If you see a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water, please text or call our hotline (when you can do that safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!
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