West Seattle, Washington
16 Thursday
(Photo by Sandy Dymale)
Thanks for the photos! Tonight’s moonrise revealed the last supermoon of 2024, the full “beaver moon.” Photographers lined up on the West Seattle shore in hopes of the perfect shot:
(Photo by Doug Eglington)
And then there was this view from Alki, as the moon appeared over the ridge:
(Photo by Michael Ostrogorsky)
If you want to watch for it in the west, Saturday morning’s moonset will be at 8:42 am.
8:34 PM: Thanks for the tip. The West Seattle low bridge is having trouble again tonight and its gates have been down for at least an hour. SDOT describes the trouble only as “technical issues.”
9:24 PM: SDOT says the bridge is functioning again.
Two reader reports in West Seattle Crime Watch tonight:
BUILDING BURGLARY: From OT:
On November 10th at 12:31 AM, someone broke into our apartment building located near 35th Ave SW and Morgan St (High Point/Fairmount Park area).
The intruder wore a light brown Carhartt beanie on his head, a black-and-brown plaid flannel shirt obscuring a shirt with a visual design on the front, gray cargo shorts, and black Adidas sneakers with white stripes. He also wore thick rings on the middle and ring fingers of his right hand. After peering into the lobby through the doors, he took out some kind of small tool from his right pocket – possibly a long screwdriver – then managed to force the door open. He entered the lobby, grabbed a box left sitting out, looked down the hallways in search of more packages to steal, then left the building. If anyone has information on who this man is, the police report number is 2024-944975.
HIT AND RUN: From RM, who says this happened early Tuesday, just before 2 am:
Attached is a video of a hit and run accident in front of my house. We don’t know who the driver is but we know that the car is a teal Toyota FJ Cruiser. In total that we know of, he totaled two cars and damaged another one north of this accident. We need your help finding the culprit of the crime. And in addition my laptop was stolen from the trunk.
This happened in the 7700 block of Delridge Way SW; the SPD incident # is 24-319356.
(WSB photo, Tuesday)
Four days after Camp Long‘s historic lodge was gutted by a fire that’s been ruled arson, the park’s supervisor Matt Kostle asked us to share this with the community, because more has been lost than a building:
Dearest friends, community members and supporters of Camp Long,
Thank you all for your thoughts and support after this tragic fire.
At this time, we do not have any updates on the investigation. We also do not yet have any updates on the next steps for our park. We ask that you look to Seattle Parks and Recreation Communications Department for any updates as they come. We know how special this place is to everyone and what a terrible loss this is to the West Seattle Community. We are so grateful to you for your outpouring of support, memories and inquiries as we grieve this catastrophic event.
In addition to the devastation of our beloved lodge, we also lost everything within it. This includes many historic photos, documents and stories of all the magic that has happened here over the years.
In light of this, we are reaching out to all of you, our community, friends and supporters, to share with us your stories and photos so we can rebuild a new Camp Long Catalogue of history. Below is a link where you can upload photos and stories you would like to share with us, and that we may feature on our social media sites in the days and weeks to come:
Parks’ most recent public comment was that the lodge is still being “assessed” so they can decide what to do next.
(Photos by Sharonn Meeks)
The first day of the Providence Mount St. Vincent (WSB sponsor) holiday bazaar saw a good turnout – and not only holiday gift ideas, but also holiday decor. Plus history:
As mentioned here last night, the contents of the time capsule opened earlier this year – The Mount’s centennial year – are on display. And you can contribute ideas of what should go into the new one that’s going to be hidden away to await its opening in another hundred years. Or, you can go just to browse the many items from many eras:
The bazaar, and its bake sale, are happening just inside the east entrance at 4831 35th SW, continuing tomorrow (Saturday, November 16) 10 am-4 pm.
(February 2023 photo sent by Sara)
Thanks to Midi for the heads-up on this, which wasn’t in our calendar: With a low-low tide of -3.1 feet expected at 10:17 pm, Seattle Aquarium volunteer beach naturalists will be out at Constellation Park (63rd/Beach Drive), 8-10 pm. Here’s their advice:
We recommend bringing a bright flashlight or headlamp, layering up to stay warm and wearing sturdy boots or shoes that have a good grip and can get wet. To help care for our marine environment, make sure to walk with gentle steps (there is life beneath your feet!) and observe animals where they are (that is their home!).
The event is free, all ages. Look for the naturalists’ canopy. (They won’t be there tomorrow night, but the tide will be even lower – out to -3.5 feet at 10:59 pm.
2:03 PM: After reports of a police pursuit northbound on 16th SW and onto the eastbound West Seattle Bridge in the 7:30-8 am vicinity this morning, we asked SPD for more information. They’ve just provided it via SPD Blotter, detailing a series of robberies including two in West Seattle:
Seattle Police are searching for suspects in a string of robberies targeting businesses in South and Southwest Seattle.
Early this morning, a group of people dressed in face masks and dark clothing entered convenience stores and gas stations in and around Georgetown, Rainier Valley, High Point, and West Seattle neighborhoods armed with firearms. In each robbery the suspect/suspects displayed weapons at store employees. In some incidents they demanded cash.
The suspects fled with stolen merchandise and cash. No one was injured.
A blue Kia sedan, believed to be related to the robberies, was recovered from 16th Avenue South and East Marginal Way South. A witness reported seeing the vehicle driving erratically before hitting a curb. Officers found the vehicle disabled and unoccupied. The car was an unreported stolen vehicle and will be processed for evidence.
Seattle Police Robbery Unit Detectives arrived at the scene and are leading the investigation. No suspects are in custody currently.
If anyone has information, please contact Violent Crimes Tip Line at (206) 233-5000.
The robberies occurred in the following locations:
Incident Number 2024-323332. At 5:25 a.m., in the 7200 block of East Marginal Way South.
Incident Number 2024-323336. At 5:37 a.m., in the 2800 block of Rainier Avenue South.
Incident Number 2024-323367. At 6:40 a.m., in the 7500 block of 35th Avenue Southwest.
Incident Number 2024-323372. At 6:50 a.m., in the 4500 block of Fauntleroy Way Southwest.
We’re still trying to find out exactly how the vehicle that was being pursued onto the bridge factored into this, as archived radio indicates that at one point, officers were looking for two vehicles described as a “silver sedan” and “dark KIA.”3:33 PM: Listening back to the archived audio, once the police summary provided us with the incident times, two notes: First, the robbery locations in West Seattle were Space Age and Fauntleroy Shell; two, what’s believed to be the same robbery “crew” also showed up at the Junction 7-11, but the doors were locked, so they left.
(WSB file photo)
It’s been going on a year now since the possibility of closing the Fauntleroy YMCA shocked community members. The YMCA (WSB sponsor) convened a town-hall meeting in January to talk about the challenges and possibilities. Since then, they’ve committed to working with the community to keep it open, and the Fauntleroy Y has expanded its hours and programming. Now it’s time for a public progress report. Branch administrator Ethan Clarke sends word of a town-hall meeting set for 6 pm December 4 at the Fellowship Hall of Fauntleroy Church (the Y is co-housed with the church). All welcome, whether or not you’re a Y member.
(Video by Tom Trulin)
Thanks for sending the video and photos! Though the Fauntleroy Creek salmon-spawning season was short and sweet, salmon are still showing up in Longfellow Creek.
(Photo by Manuel Valdes)
Puget SoundKeeper Alliance is keeping watch on the Longfellow Creek salmon through their Pre-Spawn Mortality Survey, watching to see how many fish die in the polluted creek before they get a chance to spawn, like this one.
Anna Bachmann shared the Thursday report with WSB:
We are now over a month into the survey and have reported 278 salmon! We have seen 6 Urban Runoff Mortality Syndrome (URMS) cases, 34 cases of pre-spawn mortality, and 81 deceased salmon in total. Below is a nice visualization of the data we currently have comparing salmon reported to the survey day they were seen on. As of right now our peak day was on our 26th survey day, but sightings are still increasing!
You have a chance tomorrow to make a difference for the salmon – Bachmann adds, “This Saturday (November 16, 2024) we are having a cleanup at Longfellow Creek. It will last two hours from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm; please register here if you are interested in coming out to help clean up debris along the creek.” The registration page has information on where to meet up to join the cleanup.
Want to make this a happier holiday season for kids? Donating new, unwrapped toys to Toys for Tots is a great way to do that – here are updates on two local drives, first from Denis Shapiro at the Kiwanis Club of West Seattle:
Industrious has volunteered to be a Toys for Tots collection site, joining C & P Coffee (5612 California SW) and Northwest Art & Frame (4733 California SW, collection box shown above). Two carloads of toys have been sent to the Marines’ warehouse. Toy collection is slower than last year because there were no donations in October. Unwrapped toys can be taken to these businesses or to the Kiwanis booth on the south end of the Farmers Market on Sundays. Last day to donate is December 10th.
And here’s another Toys for Tots dropoff spot in West Seattle:
NORTHWEST INSURANCE GROUP: This longtime WSB sponsor at 5431 California SW is again collecting toys too. John Moore at Northwest Insurance Group says you can stop by before December 11 to drop off your toy donation(s) – their office hours are 8:30 am to 4 pm, Mondays through Fridays.
(added Friday night) We’ve heard from one more!
HARBOR INSURANCE: You can donate here until December 18th – 3922 California SW. Just look for the sign in the window!
(This morning’s moonset, photographed by James Bratsanos)
Here’s what’s happening around West Seattle and vicinity today, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
THE MOUNT’S BAZAAR AND BAKE SALE: Holiday event at Providence Mount St. Vincent (4831 35th SW; WSB sponsor) – first day of the holiday bazaar and bake sale.
INDOOR PLAY: Need an indoor place for your little one to play? 10 am-11:30 am, you’re welcome to “Stay ‘n’ Play” at Arbor Heights Community Church (4113 SW 102nd).
TIRE TURN-IN: Got old tires? Don’t let them sit around polluting – Puget SoundKeeper is sponsoring a tire turn-in event 10 am-3 pm today at 3446 Airport Way S.
SSC GARDEN CENTER: As we get further into fall, season-appropriate plants await you at the north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus, 10 am-3 pm.
WHITE CENTER LIBRARY GUILD BAZAAR: 11 am-4 pm at White Center Library (1409 SW 107th), the guild’s benefit holiday bazaar and book sale begins,
LOG HOUSE MUSEUM: Visit the home of West Seattle’s history, noon-4 pm. (61st SW & SW Stevens)
QI GONG AT VIVA ARTS: 12:15 pm-12:45 pm Fridays. More info in our calendar listing. (4421 Fauntleroy Way SW)
NORTHWEST WINE ACADEMY TASTING ROOM: 1-6 pm, open in the north lot of South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor).
VISCON CELLARS: Season’s just right for the ambience of this cozy tasting room/wine bar, open for wine by the glass or bottle – 5-9 pm – at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor).
WSHS PTSA FALL FUNDRAISER: 5-7 pm in the West Seattle High School Commons (3000 California SW), showcase of student talent and more!
MONTHLY GAME NIGHT: Spruce Hill Winery (WSB sponsor) presents a monthly game night at 2960 4th Ave. S. in nearby SODO, 6 pm – get your reservations!
SOUND BATH FOR THE FULL MOON: 6 pm with Inner Alchemy at 3618 SW Alaska – here’s how to register.
SONGWRITER INCUBATOR NIGHT: Monthly songwriters’ open mic at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW), signups at 6, performances at 6:30.
THEATER AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: 7 pm, staged reading of the play “Make Up” at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor).
AT THE SKYLARK: Doors 7 pm, music 8 pm at The Skylark for Fuzzy Math, Fruit Juice, TRANCES. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
AT THE SPOT: Fridays are Live Artist Showcase nights at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way), 7-10 pm.
‘OPHELIA’ AT WSHS: Second night for the student production, 7:30 pm at the West Seattle High School theater (3000 California SW), details in our calendar listing.
MAKE IT LOUD: Tonight’s music at Southgate Roller Rink features: Tom Price Desert Classic, Student Nurse, Dead on Cue. $5 skates, $18 cover. 21+. (9646 17th SW)
REVELRY ROOM DJ: 9 pm, DJ Peg tonight! (4547 California SW)
JARAY’S DJ: 9 pm, DJ Buzsy at Jaray’s Lounge (2216 SW Orchard).
Are we missing anything? If you have something else to add to our event lists and calendar, please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
WSB has always sought to give exposure to local nonprofits and their needs. This holiday season, we’re also planning to do that through a new campaign called West Seattle Giving Spirit. Nonprofits interested in participating are invited to apply, as there’s a limited number of dates and it’s first-come first-serve, Here’s what it’s all about:
West Seattle Giving Spirit
A year-end campaign focused on community strength and generosity.Sponsored by the Learning Communities Foundation and WSB
November 20 – December 27, 2024Calling all West Seattle and White Center nonprofits to participate in the first-ever coordinated year-end giving campaign with and for area nonprofits!
There are so many incredible nonprofits supporting the communities reached by WSB. West Seattle Giving Spirit will highlight the positive impact that organizations on (and adjacent to) the West Seattle peninsula have on our neighbors, the arts, the environment, and more. When the world finds itself in transition, this is one way to engage, give, and support locally.
From November 20 -December 27, WSB, in partnership with the Learning Communities Foundation, will provide up to sixteen West Seattle or White Center nonprofits a one-day Spotlight and “opportunity to ask” for donations of money and/or volunteer time. To be eligible, nonprofits must have locations or primary services provided within the following zip codes: 98116, 98136, 98126, 98106, 98146.
Interest forms will be reviewed as received and no later than Monday, November 18 at 4 pm.
Info Sheet for Interested Nonprofits (which includes the form links for nonprofits interested in participating)
If you’re not a nonprofit but want to support – watch for participant spotlights starting next week to find out how!
Family and friends will gather tomorrow to remember Scott Stoefen. Here’s the remembrance they’re sharing with his community:
Scott Clifford Stoefen, beloved by all who knew him, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2024, in West Seattle. Born on November 26, 1957, in North Seattle, he was a graduate of The Overlake School, attended the University of Washington and was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity, UWSigmachi! He cherished his lifelong relationships with his brothers, often recalling many activities, especially Spring Derby Days. He lived a life characterized by generosity, faith, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys that life offers.
Scott was a man of thoughtful words and actions. His faith-filled presence was a cornerstone of the Holy Rosary Parish community for nearly two decades. His dedication to the parish went beyond mere attendance; he was instrumental in keeping the community running smoothly, offering his time and talents without reservation. He was a true servant leader, whose quiet strength and unwavering commitment to his faith community will be deeply missed.
His interests were as varied as they were passionate. Scott found solace and joy in music, embracing the melodies and rhythms that filled his soul. He was an avid enthusiast of sound systems, always in pursuit of the perfect audio experience. This love of music was a constant companion throughout his life, providing comfort and inspiration in equal measure.
Scott was also an outdoorsman at heart. He spent countless hours on the golf course, relishing the challenge of each game and the camaraderie of fellow golfers. Fishing was another pursuit that allowed him to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of Washington’s beautiful waterways.
Perhaps one of the most endearing images of Scott was him cruising around with the top down in his red Volvo convertible. It was in these moments, with the wind in his hair and the sun on his face, that Scott truly lived in the moment, embracing the freedom and adventure that life on the open road offers.
Scott’s legacy is one of generosity and thoughtfulness. His actions spoke louder than words, and he will be remembered as a man who lived his values every day. The absence of his presence will be felt deeply by those who knew him, but the memory of his kindness, his faith, and his gentle spirit will continue to inspire and guide us.
As we bid farewell to Scott Clifford Stoefen, we celebrate a life well-lived, a life full of purpose and love. He may have departed from this world, but his impact will be felt for generations to come. Rest in peace, dear Scott, knowing that your journey was a beacon of light for all of us.
Scott’s funeral will be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 11 am, followed by a reception in the school gym. In lieu of flowers, Holy Rosary and friends kindly request that donations be made to the American Cancer Society, the Sigma Chi Foundation, or Holy Rosary Parish, in memory of Scott.
(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)
9:41 AM: Westbound Fauntleroy is blocked at 42nd SW in Morgan Junction because of a crash reported as a driver hitting a pedestrian. No word yet on how seriously the person is hurt. Per radio exchanges, the crash was reported by the driver.
9:58 AM: Apparently the victim was not seriously hurt – SFD was canceled relatively quickly, and the street has reopened.
Earlier:
6:02 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Friday, November 15.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
Partly sunny, chance of rain, high in the upper 40s. Today’s sunrise will be at 7:16 am, while sunset will be at 4:32 pm.
TRANSIT
Water Taxi today – Regular service.
Washington State Ferries today – 2-boat service on the Triangle Route with M/V Sealth as the “ghost boat.” Check here for last-minute changes.
Metro buses today – Regular schedule.
ROAD WORK
*The Admiral Way Bridge seismic project continues; the south half of the bridge is closed, with one lane each way on the north side. Fairmount Avenue remains closed under the bridge.
*The Delridge pedestrian-bridge earthquake-safety project also continues, with narrowing at Delridge/Oregon.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Spokane Street Viaduct – This view usually looks westward, with eastbound lanes at left and westbound lanes at right:
Low Bridge – Looking west:
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.
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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