West Seattle, Washington
25 Thursday
Stopped by Admiral UCC Church a little while ago to check on their outdoor food drive. Still time to stop by if you have any of this to donate: Non-perishable and canned food, pet food and cat litter, baking supplies, seasonings and herbs, bagged fresh produce, or home-grown organic vegetables. Look for the canopy and bin, 4320 SW Hill, until 4 pm. (If you miss today, they have three other Saturday food drives planned this summer, 1-4 pm June 27th, July 11st and 25th.)
As mentioned briefly in our nightly virus-crisis roundup, Seattle Parks published an announcement late Friday about what’s reopening in its system – and what’s not. In case you didn’t click through to the full announcement, here are the highlights:
NOW OPEN
(With this caveat: “Maintenance crews will be reinstalling nets and hoops over the next few weeks. No more than five people should be on the court at a time, players should refrain from sharing sports equipment, and give each other six-feet of social distance while recreating.”)
Tennis/pickleball courts
Basketball courts
Disc golf
Community gardens
Golf courses
Boat ramps (by June 20)
Trails and walking paths
Outdoor barbecue grills
Picnic tables (not larger picnic shelters)
Public restrooms
Skateparks
Off Leash Areas
Volleyball courts
Athletic fields (for non-organized use and team practices starting 7/1)
Swimming Areas (beginning July 1 at 5 locations)
For a full list visit our blog
STILL CLOSED
Play areas and playgrounds
Adult fitness equipment
Picnic shelters
Fire pits
Community Centers/Environmental Learning Centers (programs)
CLOSING TIMES
“Popular parks will close early, at sunset, and many parking restrictions will continue to limit crowding.”
ATHLETIC FIELDS
The city will begin taking reservations for athletic field practices Wednesday (June 17) for select fields, “with permitted practices starting July 1 for organizations committed to operating consistent with the Governor’s guidance, a prerequisite for reserving fields. Several fields throughout the city will be reserved for informal drop-in use by the public throughout the summer.”
SWIMMING
“Indoor and outdoor pools, wading pools, and spray parks will remain closed for the summer. While the Governor has permitted pool use in phase 1.5 with very limited capacity, Seattle Parks and Recreation previously decided to focus staff resources to provide outdoor lifeguarded swimming areas for summer 2020.”
One last note – you’re likely to see new signage. From Parks’ announcement: “In place of ‘Keep It Moving’ messaging, Seattle Parks and Recreation will be asking park goers to ‘Keep It Small and Simple.’ The public is encouraged to visit parks and enjoy trails, walking paths, and lawns, but must refrain from large gatherings, large sport games, or parties.”
P.S. Many of the facilities/features now reopening have been closed for almost three months.
15 weeks into King County’s outbreak of COVID-19, grocery shopping remains a different experience from what it was pre-pandemic. We’ve been updating hours and other changes at West Seattle’s standalone supermarkets for almost three months now. Here’s what’s new since our last update two weeks ago:
WHOLE FOODS HOURS: The West Seattle Whole Foods Market (4755 Fauntleroy Way SW; WSB sponsor) is now open until 9 pm.
PCC BAGS AND MASKS: Two changes about to take place at PCC (2749 California SW):
Starting Monday, June 15, PCC members and shoppers can use their own reusable shopping bags when they bag their own order. They will need to keep the bags in their cart when bagging their groceries. If they choose to have our staff assist in bagging, we will need to use our paper bags at 5 cents per bag.
In addition, in accordance with Labor and Industries and the WA State Department of Safety and Health, PCC store staff will now wear paper masks.
We’ve updated our ongoing list. Any changes YOU have noticed?
15 weeks into the local COVID-19 outbreak, and one week into “modified Phase 1,” here’s the nightly roundup:
NEWEST KING COUNTY NUMBERS: From the Public Health daily-summary dashboard:
*8,644 people have tested positive, 60 more than yesterday
*571 people have died, unchanged from yesterday
*1,517 people have been hospitalized, 5 more than yesterday
*115,016 people have been tested, 2,263 more than yesterday
One week ago, the cases/deaths were 8,396/566.
STATEWIDE NUMBERS: See them here.
WORLDWIDE NUMBERS: See them – nation by nation – here.
‘KEEP IT MOVING’ GOING AWAY: Seattle Parks has announced a long list of operational changes, and will now scrap the “Keep It Moving” exhortation in favor of “Keep It Small & Simple.” Also in the announcement: No swimming pools or wading pools this summer.
$1.1 MILLION BILL: Remember Michael Flor, the 70-year-old West Seattle COVID-19 survivor whose homecoming we covered last month?
(May photo courtesy Wendy Hobson)
The Seattle Times, which was first to tell his survival story, reports tonight that Flor got a $1.1 million hospital bill.
COVID CASUALTY: Fauntleroy Church’s Little Pilgrim School is closing, citing the new health regulations/constraints resulting from the pandemic.
TESTING THIS WEEKEND: Free testing Saturday and Sunday in Renton and Federal Way, if you can get there – details here. No appointment required for those – but book ahead if you want to go to the SODO testing site that’s open 10 am-3 pm tomorrow (details here).
FOOD DRIVE TOMORROW: Outside Admiral Church:
Food Drive Saturday from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm June 13th. There will be a Food Bank barrel to collect food donations, under a canopy if it is raining, at the Admiral church with attendants to assist with the collection of food: non-perishable and canned food, pet food and cat litter, baking supplies, seasonings and herbs, bagged fresh produce or home grown organic vegetables. 4320 SW Hill Street. The food drives will be from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm on Saturdays, June 13 and 27, July 11 and 25. Your food donations are needed as the number of people needing food has increased greatly due to the pandemic. Thank you for helping.
HOW DID THE STAY-HOME MONTHS CHANGE YOUR LIFE? The state Health Department suggests you take stock of your new habits – good and not-so-good – now.
GOT INFO OR PHOTOS? westseattleblog@gmail.com or text/voice 206-293-6302 – thank you!
Three more West Seattle Junction business-reopening notes:
First, many have asked about Maharaja, which has been remodeled during its closure – here’s the news emailed to us today by Don Bogie:
The Maharaja will be open for delivery and takeout starting Saturday 6/13. The kitchen has been remodeled and is ready to go!! We could be open (today) but we are closed along with a large number of other WA restaurants in observance of the statewide #blacklivesmatter silent march and general strike.
Through our remodel we are having a tough time getting our phone lines working, please order through a service (DoorDash, Grubhub, Caviar etc…) or you can come to the front door and place your order!!! We look forward to feeding you and seeing you soon!!!!
Maharaja is at 4542 California SW. Hours will be 11 am-11 pm.
Also open again for in-store shopping, My Three Little Birds (4736 California SW). Proprietor Jennifer Young says the hours for now are Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10 am-4 pm, Thursdays-Fridays-Saturdays 10 am-5 pm, Sundays 11 am-4 pm, Mondays closed.
And Fleurt is open too! Keonii and Sam are looking forward to seeing you:
(Photo by Ryan Cory)
New Retail Store Hours:
Monday – Closed. Website orders received on Monday will be delivered same day.
Tuesdays-Sundays Noon to 3pmWe do have some restrictions and guidelines at Fleurt based on City and State regulations for Phase 1.5.
1. Walk ins welcome.
2. Limit One customer in the shop at a time.
3. Face masks must be worn inside the shop.
4. Hands must be sanitized upon walking in. We have lots of hand sanitizer.
5. No cash sales.
6. Personal/private shopping available before and after regular store open hours. Call or email us.
7. Fleurt website orders are being delivered daily within West Seattle. Free USPS anywhere in the US.
8. Curbside pickup available Tuesday through Sunday.
Fleurt is at 4536 California SW.
(Photo courtesy Fauntleroy UCC)
By Judy Pickens
Special to West Seattle Blog
New public-health requirements have dealt a body blow to a venerated West Seattle institution – Little Pilgrim School.
In a letter yesterday to parents, the leaders of Fauntleroy Church announced that the United Church of Christ congregation was closing its 68-year-old preschool.
“The programmatic, financial, staffing, and health and safety gaps between what we are able to do and what we would have to do to begin preschool this fall are great and accompanied by many significant unknowns,” the letter said.
Even if the school were to open in the fall with full enrollment, overwhelming changes would have been needed to meet COVID-19 guidelines, the letter continued. They included cutting class size in half, shortening the day to allow for extra cleaning, and greatly reducing the cooperative play that is central to how young children learn.
Parents initiated Little Pilgrim as a ministry of the church in 1952 to serve families with children whose birth dates kept them from starting public kindergarten at age five. The following year it shifted to a preschool program for four-year-olds and later added classes for twos and threes.
Over the years, Little Pilgrim enrolled an estimated 3,700 children, including some second generation. When the school transitioned to online learning in March because of COVID-19, Director Jenny Romischer was leading a staff of four teachers and an aide serving 60 students.
“The legacy of love they have given the children and families of this community over the years is something for which our church will always be thankful,” the letter said.
The church is processing tuition refunds and, in due time, will look at options for using the former classrooms in a different way to serve the community.
From Hope Lutheran School:
At Hope Lutheran School, the months of May and June are all about wrapping up the year strong and celebrating our twenty 8th graders who will be moving on to high school. This year is no exception, albeit we are all at home. Knowing that graduates everywhere were disappointed not to be enjoying some of the normal festivities of graduation, we had to get creative in order to show our happiness for them while they are at home.
Social media has been a great way to highlight each of our graduates in what we called our “8th Grade Spotlight.” Sally Heit, Admissions Director, posted a Facebook Live post every day where she spoke about each graduate and posted a picture of them.
Lawn signs were a huge hit for every school, Hope included. Each graduate received one to post outside their front door. One tradition that remained the same this year was the mysterious flock of flamingos that showed up right before graduation to send off the graduates, each with their own graduation hat.
A HUGE Thanks to West Seattle resident Ruth Gardner and her company WestSide Flockers for always getting the flock together in front of the school. Graduates have been coming by to get their picture taken by their flamingo, and passersby have enjoyed the pink display.
Today (June 11th) was the official graduation day, and the Graduation bus carried Hope principal Kristen Okabayashi, Admissions Director Sally Heit, and middle school teachers Sara Kunkel, Tim Allen, and Lisa Mey delivered to each student their diploma and goodie bag.
And, this evening families viewed the special graduation video created by the Hope staff especially for the graduates, complete with a program.
Congratulations, Hope Lutheran Class of 2020!
Three months ago today, it was the last regular day of school for most kids in our area. Fast-forwarding to tonight – here’s the nightly roundup:
NEWEST KING COUNTY NUMBERS: From the Public Health daily-summary dashboard:
*8,584 people have tested positive, up 25 from yesterday
*571 people have died, up 1 from yesterday
*1,512 people have been hospitalized, up 7 from yesterday
*112,753 people have been tested, up 1,462 from yesterday
One week ago, the positive-test/deaths totals were 8,333 and 564.
STATEWIDE NUMBERS: Find them, county by county, on the state Department of Health page,.
WORLDWIDE NUMBERS: See them, nation by nation, here.
REMINDER – LOCAL TESTING TOMORROW: Tomorrow’s the next weekly drive-up/walk-up testing day at the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) north lot (6000 16th SW), 10 am-3 pm.
BACK TO SCHOOL THIS FALL? Three months after closing campuses, Seattle Public Schools is expected to announce its plan a week from tomorrow. Meantime, new state guidance was announced today:
Gov. Jay Inslee today issued a proclamation outlining the state’s plan to possibly re-open schools in the fall for the 2020-2021 school year. The plan follows the state’s Safe Start phased approach to reopening on a county-by-county basis.
Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal addressed the media today to unveil the Reopening Washington Schools 2020 Planning Guide authorized under the proclamation.
BUS/WATER TAXI COMEBACK: Metro announced today that service levels will be increased on Monday, June 22 – both buses and the Water Taxi.
NATIONAL GUARD MILESTONE: We’ve shown you National Guard members assisting at local food banks, like these soldiers in White Center:
(WCN/WSB photo, last month)
The state announced a milestone today:
Since being activated to support the COVID-19 response, Washington National Guard soldiers and airmen have packaged more than 25 million pounds of food to support local food banks. This past week alone, more than 650 Guard personnel helped box more than 2.6 million pounds of food and assemble more than 68,000 meals.In addition, this week WSDA’s Food Assistance program distributed 1.5 million pounds of food and served more than 171,000 clients.
PHOTOS? TIPS? westseattleblog@gmail.com or 206-293-6302 – thank you!
Tonight’s toplines in the virus crisis:
NEWEST KING COUNTY NUMBERS: From the Public Health daily-summary dashboard:
*8,559 people have tested positive, 23 more than yesterday
*570 people have died, unchanged from yesterday
*1,505 people have been hospitalized, 6 more than yesterday
*111,291 people have been tested, 1,478 more than yesterday
One week ago, 8,277 people had tested positive, and 562 had died.
STATEWIDE NUMBERS: Find them, county by county, on the state Department of Health page,.
WORLDWIDE NUMBERS: See them, nation by nation, here.
MASK CHALLENGE: Even as reopening continues, health authorities urge everyone to wear a face covering when out in public. So the state has announced this:
Wearing a facial covering is one of the easiest, most effective things we can all do to prevent the spread of this virus. The governor announced the state has already made emergency distributions of more than 1 million cloth facial coverings with another 4 million masks on order. The state has teamed up with Restart Partners to launch the “Wear A Mask” Initiative and is asking Washingtonians to submit videos of themselves answering the question: “Why do you wear a mask?” You can learn more and participate in this effort by visiting restart.us/WearAMaskWA.
FIGHTING HUNGER: An additional summertime benefit will be available for families of students who qualify for free or reduced-price lunch – here are the details.
…AND HOW TO HELP FIGHT HUNGER: Admiral UCC Church‘s next food drive is Saturday: “From 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. There will be a Food Bank barrel to collect food donations, under a canopy if it is raining, at the Admiral church with attendants to assist with the collection of food: non-perishable and canned food, pet food and cat litter, baking supplies, seasonings and herbs, bagged fresh produce or home grown organic vegetables.” The church is at 4320 SW Hill.
GOT INFO? Email us at westseattleblog@gmail.com or phone us, text or voice, at 206-293-6302 – thank you!
From the Alki Elementary PTA – how they’re helping, and how you can help:
During these unprecedented times of true uncertainty, Alki Elementary has set out to shine the light on small businesses and families in need here in West Seattle. We have always relied on our community’s support to help us fund staff positions (counselor, nurse, and hourly staff) and programs within our school, and our community has never let us down. Now, our call to return that support is clear. We are filled with ideas and moving forcefully with meaningful action through our “IN communITy TOGETHER” initiative.
By way of our collective minds and hearts, we have already launched 3 separate efforts during this pandemic, honoring our mission to serve and support those our own neighborhood.
*Selling flowers for our local flower farmers on Mother’s Day was wildly successful, due to the synergy of teamwork. The idea lives on, as other schools have adopted our model and continue to host sales for Lee Lor Gardens and Blong’s Garden.
Currently, two more efforts are taking place.
*For Father’s Day we are supporting Husky Deli, The Beer Junction, and Safeway on Admiral as we sell pre-orders of DIY ROOT BEER FLOAT KITS for drive thru pick-up at Husky Deli on Father’s Day, June 21st.
*Lastly, our initiative to FEED THOSE IN NEED is the pride and joy of IN IT TOGETHER. We have partnered with the existing effort of local restaurants here in West Seattle (The Westy, Mission Cantina, The Bridge, Peel and Press, and West 5), as well as the Alibi Room at Pike Place Market to provide healthy meals to first responders, seniors, healthcare workers, and those experiencing food insecurities due to the pandemic. A $10 donation will provide one meal as well as support our local community needs through ALKI CARES FUND. Alki Cares supports families severely impacted by COVID19, providing them with groceries, supplies, and more. To date, we have provided 235 meals!
We’re continuing to publish business-reopening announcements. Here are six more we have received, all in The Junction:
SKIN CARE BY CASEY (44th/Oregon): From proprietor Casey Rasmussen:
Skin Care by Casey will re-open 6/25 at limited capacity, following all guidelines.
Booking here-
square.site/book/311VZ123H62TW/skin-care-by-casey-seattle-wa
FUNKY JANE’S CONSIGNMENT (California/Oregon): From proprietor Panida Vilaythong:
Now open! Temporary modifications below:
Hours
Monday / Tuesday Closed
Wednesday – Friday 12 pm to 6 pm
Saturday 10:30 am to 5 pm
Sunday 12 pm to 5 pmConsignment
As we ease into this new environment, FJC will not be accepting consignments at this time. As regulations change rapidly, we feel this will allow us to be as nimble as possible.Fortunately, prior to our statewide shutdown, we transitioned into the Spring season! Our store is stocked with great inventory for your new Spring / Summer wardrobe! We look forward to seeing you again and rebuilding with your support!
As you read in our window, WE MISSED YOU!
DARBY WINERY (California/Alaska): From the new tasting room:
Darby Winery @ The Junction will be opening for tastings and bottle service/glass pours this Saturday, 6/13 from 12-6pm and Darby will be in the tasting room to greet guests this Saturday!
Our ongoing hours then will be TH-SAT 12-6 pm
Reservations are recommended as we have limited availability, reservations on the hour, every hour during business hours. We will have reservation capability directly from our website (setting up now) but to start, guests can email info@darbywinery.com OR call 425.233.7879 to reserve.
If you don’t reserve you can pop by and if we have an open tasting area we are happy to seat you! Don’t need a reservation to come get wine to go! Still pop in any time during normal business hours and pick up!
SPA PHOEBE (Fauntleroy/Edmunds): From proprietor Phoebe Lind:
Spa Phoebe has decided to fully open its doors again July 1st. We are open by appointment only Sunday-Saturday. 206-450-2761
MATHNASIUM OF WEST SEATTLE (Jefferson Square): From owner Juned:
Mathnasium of West Seattle is opening June 15th.
We will be offering online tutoring during 1 PM – 3 PM and 3 PM – 6 PM offering in-center tutoring.
We are very excited to start the center soon.
TERRY GANGON STATE FARM (4727 44th SW):
Terry Gangon’s State Farm office reopened on June 1st with masks required. Thanks, West Seattle for 40 years!!!
More updates ahead – westseattleblog@gmail.com is the best way to reach us unless it’s breaking news (then text/voice 206-293-6302) – thank you!
Three months ago, we reported the first publicly disclosed West Seattle case of COVID-19. Tonight – here are the toplines:
NEWEST KING COUNTY NUMBERS: We’re going to start including all four of the stats now highlighted on the Public Health daily-summary dashboard:
*8,536 people have tested positive, 29 more than yesterday
*570 people have died, 3 more than yesterday
*1,499 people have been hospitalized, 10 more than yesterday
*109,813 people have been tested, 1,182 more than yesterday
One week ago, the positive-test count was 8,235; the death toll was 560.
STATEWIDE NUMBERS: Find them here.
WORLDWIDE NUMBERS: Find them here.
HOUSE CLEANING AND NANNY RULES: The governor issued several new “guidance” documents today, including Phase 2 rules for domestic services. It’s all linked here.
SCAM ALERT: Scam callers are still trying to convince people to give them money to “prevent shutoffs’ – even though Seattle City Light and Public Utilities are still NOT cutting off service while the coronavirus crisis continues.
DEADLINE EXTENDED: From King County:
New COVID-19 funding for Community Orgs now available:
On May 5, the King County Council approved a second emergency supplemental budget proposed by Executive Dow Constantine to provide additional resources related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Included in the legislation is $1 million for the Office of Equity and Social Justice (OESJ) to expand funding for the COVID-19 Community Response Fund. As the pandemic has progressed, we understand more about its effects and the disproportionate impact it inflicts on communities of color. OESJ will continue to prioritize funding to partners working with communities at the highest risk of immediate and long-term negative health, social and economic impacts. Grants of up to $25,000 will be awarded to organizations and the application closes at 5 pm on June 23rd. Visit this link for more information on how to apply.
NEIGHBORHOOD BRIGHTNESS: Most people are still working/learning at home, so we appreciate the chance to keep sharing scenes like these when photos come in! Noodle spotted a flamingo flock:
GOT INFO? westseattleblog@gmail.com or text/voice 206-293-6302 – thank you!
Another retailer’s getting ready to open as enabled by “modified Phase 1” – that’s Linda Sabee of Carmilia’s (4528 California SW), cleaning up! Her annuncement:
We’re ready for you!
Thanks to our fabulous customers, we made it through and are ready to reopen our doors!
Thursday, June 11, Carmilia’s will be open 1:00 ~ 7:00 with new arrivals and lots of hand sanitizer!
Our schedule {for now} will be
Thursday ~ Saturday
11:00 ~ 6:00Sunday
10:00 ~ 4:00And for those of you hesitant to shop in person, you can still support Carmilia’s.
Here’s how!
•Visit us online 24/7
•Schedule an individual in-person or virtual shopping appointment here
We have a stack of other announcements and will publish more this evening!
Tonight’s headlines in the virus crisis:
NEWEST KING COUNTY NUMBERS: From the Public Health daily-summary dashboard:
*8,507 people have tested positive, up 42 from yesterday (out of 2,427 more tests)
*567 people have died, up 1 since yesterday (and the previous day)
One week ago, those totals were 8,192 and 557.
ONE MORE LOCAL DEATH … in the 98106 zip code. The local zip-code totals are now:
98106 – 3
98116 – 2
98126 – 13
98136 – 1
98146 – 6
STATEWIDE NUMBERS: Find them here.
WORLDWIDE NUMBERS: Find them here.
WEAR YOUR MASK AT WORK: A reminder from the state Health Department:
Beginning today, all employees in the state are required to wear a cloth facial covering, except when working alone in an office, vehicle, or at a job site, or when the job has no in-person interaction. Employers must provide cloth facial coverings to employees, unless their exposure dictates a higher level of protection under the Department of Labor and Industries’ safety and health rules and guidance. Employees may choose to wear their own facial coverings at work, provided it meets the minimum requirements. Which Mask for Which Task guidance was issued today by the Division of Occupational Safety and Health.
PROTESTED? GET TESTED: The message was re-stated today by state Secretary of Health John Wiesman, during the governor’s afternoon media briefing. Don’t wait for symptoms, as that could take up to two weeks. (Reminder – anyone can access testing at the drive-up site in West Seattle, 10 am-3 pm Fridays at South Seattle College [WSB sponsor] – info here.)
MORE BUSINESSES REOPEN: We’re continuing to post announcements, archived in this coverage category.
GOT INFO? PHOTOS? Email westseattleblog@gmail.com or text/voice 206-293-6302 – thank you!
As we’ve been reporting, the “modified Phase 1” approval last Friday has meant more businesses can reopen for in-person service. Here are announcements we’ve received from three West Seattle retailers:
WYATT’S JEWELERS (Westwood Village): This longtime WSB sponsor plans to reopen tomorrow (Tuesday, June 9th) and proprietor Lauren says the shop will be open “normal business hours Tuesdays-Saturdays, 10-6. We’ve done all of our sanitizing and installed everything we need to for COVID guidelines as well as the safety and well-being of our staff and customers. For the first week we are open, we will be donating 10% of everything purchased to the food bank as a way of helping the community. Can’t wait!”
CURIOUS KIDSTUFF (4740 California SW): West Seattle’s only toy store has reopened. Proprietor Elisabeth says, “Curious Kidstuff reopened (over the weekend) with limited hours and observing all the state regulations. We will be open 7 days a week from 10 am-4 pm. We also have curbside pickup or you can order on our website for those who would prefer not to come in at this time.”
NORTHWEST ART AND FRAME (4733 California SW): Manager Jason says the Junction shop reopened Sunday “with reduced hours starting out. We’ll be open Mon-Sat: 9:30 am-6:00 pm and Sun 11:00 am-6:00. We’ll see how the first week or two goes and then probably adjust back to our normal Mon-Fri: 9:30 am-9 pm.”
A second day with no deaths reported – that good news tops our virus-crisis roundup:
NEWEST KING COUNTY NUMBERS: From the Public Health daily-summary dashboard:
*8,465 people have tested positive, 43 more than yesterday
*566 people have died, unchanged for a second day
One week ago, those totals were 8,159 and 557.
STATEWIDE NUMBERS: See them here.
WORLDWIDE NUMBERS: See them – nation by nation – here.
CORONAVIRUS-FREE: No COVID-19 at West Seattle’s city-authorized tiny-house encampment, its Community Advisory Committee was told today.
STUDENT TOWN HALL RESCHEDULED: What will school look like this fall, in the wake of the coronavirus closure? The Seattle Public Schools town hall for students to join in the discussion, originally set for today, has been rescheduled to Wednesday (June 10th). Students of any age who are interested in participating can register here.
GOT SOMETHING TO REPORT? westseattleblog@gmail.com or 206-293-6302, text/voice – thank you!
(WSB file photo)
King County’s move to “modified Phase 1” – AKA “Phase 1.5” – means some hair salons/barber shops are reopening (at 25 percent capacity), and clients are thrilled. Among those reopening: Longtime WSB sponsor Illusions Hair Design (5619 California SW) is reopening Wednesday and started taking appointments today. “We’re ready with EVERYTHING the state is requiring, now the only thing missing is YOU!!!!” was Illusions’ exuberant declaration. They’ll be open this Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, 11 am-6 pm. After that, for the rest of the month, Illusions will be open 1 pm-8 pm Mondays and Tuesdays, 10 am-5 pm Wednesdays-Fridays. You can call to schedule an appointment again tomorrow or Tuesday, 10 am-4 pm, 206-938-3675. But before calling, you need to read the salon’s protocols and sign a waiver, which you can find on this webpage.
Very late roundup tonight after a busy day:
NEWEST KING COUNTY NUMBERS: From the Public Health daily-summary dashboard (note: updated at 2:25 am Sunday):
*8,422 people have tested positive, up 26 from a day earlier
*566 people have died, unchanged from the previous day
One week ago, those totals were 8,074 and 556.
STATEWIDE NUMBERS: See them here.
WORLDWIDE NUMBERS: More than 6.8 million people have tested positive. Most cases: U.S., Brazil, Russia, United Kingdom, India. (Last weekend Spain was #5.) See the breakdown, nation by nation, here.
IF YOU’VE BEEN TO A BIG PROTEST … the mayor urges you to get tested for COVID-19 and says you can do that at two newly established testing sites – including the one in South Seattle – even if you don’t have symptoms.
FARMERS’ MARKET TOMORROW: Second week back in the vendors-down-the-middle format. Here’s this week’s vendor list. Wear your face covering!
FOOD DRIVE TOMORROW: If you can donate…
Thanks to our community’s generosity, Alki United Church of Christ (Alki UCC) will once again be accepting donations outside our building for an In-Person, Socially-Distanced Food Drive at 6115 SW Hinds this Sunday, June 7 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Contributions of non-perishable food and other items will be distributed via the White Center Food Bank; top requests include Canned Meat/Soup/Fruit (pop‐top cans preferred), Rice, Noodles, Peanut Butter, Oats, Toilet Paper, Diapers, Similac Formula, Cleaning Supplies, Hand Sanitizer and Baby Wipes.
REOPENINGS CONTINUE: More biznotes on Sunday as “modified Phase 1” continues to enable some businesses to reopen, if they choose.
GOT SOMETHING TO REPORT? westseattleblog@gmail.com or 206-293-6302, text/voice – thank you!
Some local businesses are reopening for in-person customer service, and that’s the big news as we start this roundup, exactly 14 weeks after news of King County’s first confirmed COVID-19 case:
‘MODIFIED PHASE 1’ BEGINS: At midmorning, King County announced the news that so many businesses – and customers – had been waiting to hear: The state had approved the application to move to “modified Phase 1,” just two days after it was filed. The changes took effect immediately, so businesses have been busy announcing they’re open – or deciding on their next step.
ALSO MOVING ON: Other decisions announced today included neighboring Pierce and Snohomish Counties moving into full-fledged Phase 2.
BUT REMEMBER … this key section from the “Safe Start” plan:
Until there is an efective vaccine, efective treatment or herd immunity, it is crucial to maintain some level of community interventions to suppress the spread of COVID-19 throughout all phases of recovery. This includes heightened protections for the health and safety of workers in essential sectors, people living and working in high-risk facilities (e.g., senior care facilities) and all other workers.
All Washingtonians have a responsibility to protect themselves and others. Each phase, while allowing for additional services to open and return to full capacity, is grounded in the following required basic practices:
Guidance for Individuals
All phases – Individuals should continue to:
• Engage in physical distancing, staying at least six feet away from other people
• Wear cloth face coverings in public places when not eating or drinking (cloth face coverings should not
be placed on children younger than 2 years of age, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious,
incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the cover without assistance)
• Stay home if sick
• Avoid others who are sick
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water (use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available)
• Cover coughs and sneezes
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
• Disinfect surfaces and objects regularly
NEWEST KING COUNTY NUMBERS: From the Public Health daily-summary dashboard:
*8,396 people have tested positive, up 63 from yesterday
*566 people have died, up 2 from yesterday
One week ago, those totals were 8,006 and 554.
STATEWIDE NUMBERS: See them here.
WORLDWIDE NUMBERS: See them – nation by nation – here.
WASH BUT DON’T WASTE: After three months of frequent hand washing, has your water bill gone up? Seattle Public Utilities has conservation tips.
VIRTUAL ART SHOW: Art has helped many people cope with the uncertainty of the past few months – murals, windows, sidewalk chalk. Seattle Public Schools‘ annual Naramore art show had to be held virtually this year because of the virus crisis – you can see all the students’ work, and watch a video version, by going here.
GOT INFO? westseattleblog@gmail.com or text/voice 206-293-6302 – thank you!
Now that retailers have the go-ahead to let some customers shop in person, you’re invited to the expanded space of Thunder Road Guitars and The Bass Shop (6400 California SW) starting tomorrow (Saturday, June 6th). You might recall that TRG proprietor Frank Gross bought the building last year and planned to eventually expand into the entire space; now that work is done. This video made for TRG and TBS by Ryan Cory gives you a closer look:
More room to shop means more room to shop safely as they reopen – Frank says they’re excited for you to come see the shop! But wear your face covering -he’s all set with his:
Hours are 10 am-6 pm Tuesdays through Saturdays.
P.S. The Wash Dog, previous tenant on the north side of the building, is now at 10623 16th SW in White Center.
As reported here this morning, King County is now in “modified Phase 1” and that means some businesses can reopen if they choose to – including restaurants, who can have some indoor and outdoor table service. Here’s who we’ve heard from/about so far:
LUNA PARK CAFE: Open! (2918 SW Avalon Way)
SEATTLE FISH COMPANY: Open! (4435 California SW)
BOX BAR: Planning to open Saturday: “The Box Bar will be open for indoor dining at 25% capacity (15 guests) starting tomorrow Sat 6/6 from 4 PM-10 PM. Hours moving forward are subject to change so please check the website boxbarseattle.com” (California/Brandon)
OUNCES: “We’ve reopened our outdoor. We are following phase 1.5 guidelines from the state: no indoor seating, operating at 50% outdoor capacity, wearing a mask requested when inside the taproom, seating is spaced 6ft apart, no more than 5 people per table…etc. We are also asking customers to practice social distancing and help us by sanitizing their space before and after use (spray bottle supplied). We will continue our pickup and delivery options, expanded hours, and our food truck schedule can be found on our website www.ounceswestseattle.com.” (3809 Delridge Way SW)
MIOPOSTO: Planning to open Wednesday (6/10), with this brand-new patio as well as indoor dining:
“Updated hours are 11:30 am-10 pm. Brunch and lunch are served daily until 3 pm. Daily happy hour 4 pm-6 pm (dine-in only). Guests can still order for curbside pickup via our online ordering website.” (2139 California SW)
ADDED SATURDAY
UPTOWN ESPRESSO: Both West Seattle locations (California/Edmunds, Delridge/Andover) reopened today, “for indoor seating at 25% and outdoor seating at 50%. Indoor seating will have an hour limit and 5 people MAX per table.”
CHACO CANYON CAFE: Open, 10 am-5 pm daily. (37th/Alaska)
LOCOL BARLEY AND VINE: Now “open 7 days a week from 4-8 now. Our patio is open, dine-in seating is available, and we still offer everything to go as well.” (35th/Kenyon)
We’ll keep adding as we hear more!
The first of many reopening announcements, with this morning’s news that King County got the state OK to move immediately into “modified Phase 1” – the photo is from West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor), which is now open!
We are open now until 4 tonight. Tomorrow we will be open 10-5, and Sunday 11-4. Starting next week our hours will be 10-6 M-F, 10-5 Sat and 11-4 Sun until phase 4.
We have gone a little over the top to keep staff and customers safe and distanced. We’ve added barriers to keep shoppers and people checking out separated even in close confines.
Even before state orders in March required WSR and other retailers to close in-store service, they had implemented special protection, well before even “essential” businesses followed suit.
10:44 AM: Just in – King County’s “modified Phase 1” approval from the state. Here’s the announcement:
With new state health officials’ approval today, restaurants and retailers will be allowed to serve customers in their establishments, in addition to other modified openings for a wide range of businesses and activities. Public Health – Seattle & King County will monitor transmission trends, medical capacity and other key indicators to help inform further reopening decisions.
A plan drafted by King County Executive Dow Constantine, King County Council Chair Claudia Balducci, and King County Board of Health Chair Joe McDermott and approved today by state Department of Health Secretary John Wiesman immediately allows limited and modified openings for a wide range of businesses, recreation, and personal activities in King County.
Businesses are required to follow the state Department of Health’s specific guidance but must adjust their occupancy to the levels identified below. The State defines an establishment’s capacity as the fire code. The intent is to limit business operations to a level that allows for social distancing. Additionally, businesses in retail, professional services, and real estate must take steps to reduce indoor operations to thirty minutes. This is not meant to be timed to the second – no one is expected to have a stopwatch – but customers should be informed why it is important to limit close interactions.
Here is an overview of what’s happening in key sectors across King County:
Restaurants
• Outdoor dining activities is allowed at 50 percent of capacity with all tables and chairs maintaining 6 feet of distance, though additional seating will be allowed provided it follows Public Health – Seattle & King County’s best practices. Restaurants will also need to go through the normal process within their city – or King County if the establishment is located within unincorporated King County – to seek approval to expand outdoor seating.
• Indoor dining services may operate at 25 percent of capacity, provided such tables and chairs are more than 6 feet away from each other.In-store retail
• All non-essential retail activities may operate but an establishment’s occupancy may not be not be higher than 15 percent of capacity.
• Businesses are directed to provide signage encouraging indoor visits to less than 30 minutes, with face-to-face interactions limited to 30 minutes.
• Essential retail activities may continue to operate according to the existing state regulations.Personal services: Cosmetologists, Hairstylists, Barbers, Estheticians, Master Estheticians, Manicurists, Nail Salon Workers, Electrologists, Permanent Makeup Artists, Tattoo Artists, Cosmetology Schools and Esthetics Schools
• All activities may operate but the number of clients served will be limited to no more than 25 percent of capacity or one person if it is a single bed/chair studio.Professional services: Accountants, architects, attorneys, engineers, financial advisors, information technologists, insurance agents, tax preparers, and other office-based occupations that are typically serving a client base
• All activities allowed but an establishment’s occupancy should not be higher than 25 percent of capacity.
• Businesses are directed to provide signage encouraging indoor visits to be less than 30 minutes, with face to face interactions limited to 30 minutes.Construction
• All construction, including those activities for which social distancing may not be maintained and the start of new construction projects, is authorized to resume.
As we’ve done throughout the virus crisis, we’ll be publishing business updates as we get them – please let us know!
11:59 AM: Here’s the state Health Department announcement that King and 13 other counties are advancing. Meantime, everything King County requested is here.
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