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West Seattle news 56710 results

FOLLOWUP: Cleanup begins at encampment near 1st Avenue South Bridge
March 20, 2023 12:29 pm
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 |   Environment | Safety | West Seattle news

Streets are blocked off around the area beneath the south end of the 1st Avenue South Bridge, as the encampment cleanup begins. We reported last week that the long-planned cleanup was scheduled for this week, so we went down this morning to see if it had begun. We couldn’t get close because of the closures, but heavy equipment and hauling trucks were in view:

So were State Patrol vehicles (much of the area is WSDOT land):

As for the people who had been living at the encampment, we reported last week that outreach workers said 30 had been connected with shelter/housing. City Councilmember Lisa Herbold had a few more details on this in her weekend newsletter, quoting the Regional Homelessness Authority, which told her:

I’m pleased to share with you that KCRHA and our partners at PDA, WSDOT, and the City have completed the work with individuals at the encampment located at SW Michigan and the 1st Avenue bridge.

As of today, 30 individuals moved into shelter or emergency housing placements. Three individuals who have a shelter match have not been at the location for several days and their whereabouts are unknown. One individual declined services. One individual encountered issues when arriving at their referred shelter location, and that person is not at the program or the encampment.

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PROTEST: Pathfinder K-8 students walk out to oppose Willow oil-drilling project
March 20, 2023 11:28 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle protests

If you traveled through the Delridge/Oregon intersection in the past hour, you would have seen that protest on the foot/bike overpass. The protesters are middle-schoolers from Pathfinder K-8 on Pigeon Point. One organizer emailed us to explain:

We are protesting against The Willow Project. The Willow Project is a massive oil-drilling project that will cause 239 million metric tons of carbon emissions to be added to our Earth’s atmosphere in the next 30 years. It is endangering our future and we are protesting to stop it. Please make it known to the public that this is not okay and we need to save our future.

Willow is a ConocoPhillips oil-drilling plan on Alaska’s North Slope that got the federal go-ahead a week ago. As for logistics of the protest, Pathfinder principal Britney Holmes sent families a note that read in part:

This is not a school or district-sponsored event. Students have a First Amendment right to assemble and express their rights. However, district policy does not allow for an excused absence for participation in a walkout unless prior approval from a student’s family is received.

Holmes’ note also said school administrators had talked with student organizers and that they would follow along to ensure safety.

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School-money meeting, spring-equinox sunset watch, more as your West Seattle Monday continues
March 20, 2023 10:35 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Red-flowering currant with raindrop, photographed by Ann Anderson)

Big day – winter turns to spring. Here’s what’s happening, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

SPRING PLANT SWAP: All week. “Bring plants to swap or repot, pots to fill or trade, seeds to share,” noon-3 pm daily at Nepenthe (9447 35th SW) – details in our calendar listing.

MONDAY MOVIE: 1 pm at Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon), “Terry’s Greatest Movies You’ve Never Heard Of,” today featuring “The Half Naked Truth.” Free popcorn! Contact SCWS to register in advance.

CITY COUNCIL BRIEFING MEETING: 2 pm, councilmembers preview the week ahead (here’s the agenda) and get another briefing on the ongoing State Legislature session. You can watch online or on cable via Seattle Channel.

FREE INDOOR PLAYSPACE: Free Toddler Gym weekday afternoons at the Salvation Army Center (9050 16th SW), ages 2-6, 3:30-5 pm.

SEATTLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS BUDGET: The district’s money crunch is the topic of a community briefing online tonight at 6 pm. (The link also has connection info. A YouTube stream is also planned.) Send questions in advance by going here.

CRAFTING AND CREATIVITY NIGHT: 6-10 pm at The Missing Piece (9456 35th SW), info here.

EQUINOX SUNSET WATCH: Spring officially arrives at 2:24 pm, and four hours later, you’re invited to join educator/expert skywatcher Alice Enevoldsen for a West Seattle change-of-seasons tradition – sunset watch at Solstice Park (uphill from the tennis courts at 7400 Fauntleroy Way SW). 6:30-7:30 pm, rain or shine (Alice says only “dangerous weather” cancels), all ages.

NEW OPEN MIC: You’re welcome at the new weekly BedHead Open Mic at West Seattle Church of the Nazarene (4201 SW Juneau), 6:30 pm – info in our calendar listing.

D&D: Open D&D starts at 6:30 pm at Meeples Games (3727 California SW), all welcome, even first-time players. $5.

MEDITATION: Free weekly Zen sitting/meditation event at the chapel at Fauntleroy UCC (9140 California SW), 7 pm-8:30 pm.

PLAY TRIVIA! Three scheduled options tonight for trivia players – 7 and 8 pm Sporcle Pub Quiz at Three 9 Lounge (4505 39th SW); 7 pm at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7:30 pm at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW)

Have a West Seattle/White Center event for our calendar ? Please send info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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YOU CAN HELP: Duwamish Alive! volunteer registration begins
March 20, 2023 9:13 am
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 |   Environment | How to help | West Seattle news

(WSB file photo)

One simple way to help orcas and other marine life – join in the one-day, twice-yearly work parties that comprise Duwamish Alive! Registration has begun for some of the sites where volunteers will be working during this spring edition. Here’s the announcement from Sharon Leishman of the Duwamish Alive! Coalition:

Duwamish Alive! Celebrating Earth Month
Sat. April 15 10:00 – 2:00 at Multiple Volunteer Sites

Duwamish Alive! is a collaborative effort in improving the health of our river and its watershed. Starting at 10:00 am volunteers will be restoring native habitat in multiple urban parks and open spaces in the ongoing effort to keep our river alive and healthy for our communities, salmon and the Puget Sound. Proving that many individuals working together can make a substantial difference in improving the health of our region.

Volunteers’ efforts include a river cleanup by kayak, shoreline salmon habitat restoration, and native forest revitalization. To volunteer, visit DuwamishAlive.org to see the different volunteer opportunities and register for the site of your choice, or email info@duwamishalive.org

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WHALES: Orcas visible from West Seattle (updated)
March 20, 2023 7:59 am
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | Whales

7:59 AM: Kersti Muul tells us orcas are in the area again – in Elliott Bay. Transients this time, currently by the central downtown waterfront.

10:50 AM: See updates in comments – J-Pod residents are back in the area too.

12:50 PM: Donna Sandstrom from The Whale Trail just called to say the whales are now southbound in the Bainbridge/Seattle ferry lanes, visible from here.

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER: Welcome to Monday
March 20, 2023 6:03 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:03 AM: Good morning! It’s Monday, March 20th, and spring starts at 2:24 pm.

WEATHER & TIME

The forecast for today: Rain at times, high in the low-to-mid-50s. Sunrise 7:12 am, sunset 7:22 pm.

TRANSIT

Metro – First weekday for RapidRide H Line replacing Route 120 and for added trips on C Line and Route 50.

Water Taxi – Regular schedule.

Washington State Ferries‘ Triangle Route continues on the 2-boat schedule, with added runs as of last week; check here for alerts/updates and see Vessel Watch for boats’ locations.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

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

High Bridge – the camera at the top:

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

Low Bridge – looking east to west (unless SDOT turns the camera):

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

Highway 99: – the 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: Check the @SDOTBridges Twitter feed to see if the city’s movable bridges are opening for vessel traffic.

If you see a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/bay, please text or call us (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if needed) – 206-293-6302.

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VIDEO: City Council Candidate Chat, with Stephen Brown
March 19, 2023 10:35 pm
|      11 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle police

By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor

Stephen Brown is the newest candidate for the District 1 City Council seat. He’s also new to the district, having just moved to West Seattle six months ago.

Brown is the fifth candidate to sit down with us for our initial series of Candidate Chats, video-recorded conversations intended to give you an early look at the candidates who have officially announced campaigns for the council seat Lisa Herbold is leaving after two terms. He is founder of Eltana Bagels, with an eclectic resumé before that, including a staff position with the short-lived Seattle Monorail Project. We talked with Brown at West Seattle Coworking in The Junction last Wednesday; here’s our unedited half-hour conversation:

If you can’t, or don’t want to, take the time to watch/listen, here’s our summary of key points:

Read More

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On eve of cleanup, 3-vehicle fire at encampment by 1st Avenue South Bridge
March 19, 2023 8:57 pm
|      10 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle fires | West Seattle news

As we reported last week, the city plans to start a cleanup tomorrow at the sprawling encampment on the West Seattle side of the 1st Avenue Bridge. This past hour, SFD responded to what’s been described as a 3-vehicle fire there – two cars and one RV. No report of injuries. Police are investigating. How many people remain at the encampment is unclear; state and regional homelessness-response spokespersons told us last week that 30 people have been placed in shelter/housing.

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BIZNOTE: Yen Wor Village plans to close at month’s end
March 19, 2023 7:29 pm
|      17 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle restaurants

One year ago, we reported on a fundraising campaign to try to keep Yen Wor Village, the restaurant/bar at 2300 California SW in The Admiral District, from closing. As noted at the time, the Wong family, owners of Yen Wor for more than 30 years, has been struggling with both financial and health challenges. They’ve made it through another year but now have announced a plan to close. The restaurant says it’ll close at the end of the month. No special events in the works to mark the end of an era, so far, but we’re told that could change. The crowdfunding campaign launched last year is still active – a poster for it is still displayed in the Yen Wor’s window:

But there’s no indication that a rescue is possible now. If you want to support the restaurant by dining/drinking there in the meantime, before the March 31st closure, they’re open seven nights a week.

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MISSING: Have you seen Craig?
March 19, 2023 5:03 pm
|      7 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle people

That’s Craig, whose mother asked us to ask you to help find him. He’s been missing since Friday night and may have been seen Saturday evening at Alki. She says Craig is 17 years old, 5’9″, with light gray eyes, brown curly hair “down in the face or in a man bun,” last seen wearing blue sweat pants, gray tank top, and a white sweatshirt with 2Pac on it. If you see Craig, call 911 and note the SPD case number of 23-74663, or call his mom Christina at 603-748-2904.

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Camp Second Chance updates, as new managers meet with Community Action Committee for the first time
March 19, 2023 3:56 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   Myers Way Parcels | West Seattle news

By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor

West Seattle’s only tiny-house encampment is under new management. Camp Second Chance is still operated by LIHI, which has the contract to run it on city-owned land at 9701 Myers Way South, but in recent months, its on-site managers have changed. The new managers met with the CSC Community Advisory Committee for the first time this past Tuesday night. The online meeting was the first in a few months because of logistics challenges that resulted in previous cancellations.

The new managers who talked with committee members are Daniel Weiss, the LIHI program manager accountable for four tiny-house encampments including CSC, on-site manager Michelle Yellow Robe, and case manager Ashley Freeman.

Currently, the site has 64 tiny houses, six of which are empty and undergoing maintenance, and 65 people, including some couples sharing a tiny house, plus 10 pets (seven dogs and three cats). Freeman is the lone case manager at the moment, with an open position for a second one; the task of assisting more than 60 people with needs including housing and job searches “can be overwhelming at times,” she acknowledged. But people continue to be placed in housing, she said, some to LIHI apartment buildings, but others to a variety of housing options all the way down to “rooms for rent.” LIHI can assist in placement of clients by paying their first/last months’ rent and deposit.

Weiss said the new managers have been stressing that “we want to help them keep moving along and get into permanent housing.” Yellow Robe added, “It’s a program, a stepping stone, not just a place to stay (indefinitely).”

That understanding isn’t shared by all, they said, particularly police whose help they have sought with removing problematic people from CSC. This issue surfaced last fall, as we reported in coverage of October’s Community Advisory Committee meeting. LIHI’s Josh Castle said CSC had required some police responses recently after a client assaulted a staffer, punching them in the face. He said police refused to remove the client from the site, insisting it was a landlord/tenant issue and that they couldn’t “evict” someone. When we followed up on the previous issue last fall, city homelessness-response spokesperson Linda Robson told us, “Legally, for purposes regarding evictions, tiny houses are considered emergency shelter, not housing.” But Castle said SPD has refused to help them in situations like this, at other LIHI tiny-house encampments as well as at CSC. In this situation, Castle said, an arrest would have been most appropriate, but “we just want them to leave the village.” Yellow Robe added that beyond the safety risk of having this person remain at CSC, it sets a bad example for others staying there – “The other clients are watching this and they think it’s a free for all.” One committee member suggested LIHI take the issue to the City Attorney’s Office.

The city did apparently take action on another problem, RVs and junk – not associated with CSC, accumulated along Myers Way adjacent to it. Weiss said he had filed a Find It Fix It report and cleanup/dispersal followed. Meantime, the camp is working on a new gate/fence in front to improve security. Committee members asked if the camp had any specific needs at the moment with which the community could assist; Freeman said she was looking into planning some activities such as an Easter dinner and egg hunt. Weiss said in general they are looking to bring in “more community partners” to provide services.

The Camp Second Chance Community Action Committee‘s monthly meetings are usually on second Tuesdays at 6 pm, online, open to all; email Josh Castle at LIHI to get on the announcement list – – and/or watch for the meeting info in the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar.

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About the smoke column behind Home Depot
March 19, 2023 1:57 pm
|      11 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle fires | West Seattle news

Thanks to the texter who sent that photo. The smoke was from a fire, quickly extinguished by SFD Engine 11 minutes ago, in the greenbelt behind Home Depot. Firefighters described what was on fire as a “makeshift structure” and the call is logged as “encampment fire.” No word of any injuries. Most of the greenbelt along Sylvan Way northwest of the store is city-owned land.

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DATE SET: Celebration of life April 1 for Gregor Terjung
March 19, 2023 1:41 pm
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 |   Obituaries | West Seattle news

When the family of longtime West Seattle Junction gift-shop owner Gregor Terjung announced his death in January, the date wasn’t yet set for his celebration of life. Now it is, and they want the community to know that the memorial is planned for Saturday, April 1st, 11 am at West Seattle Christian Church (4400 42nd SW). Online tributes are also still welcome at emmickfunerals.com/obituary/Gregor-Terjung. Mr. Terjung owned and operated Terjung’s Studio of Gifts for half a century until closing the shop and retiring at age 89.

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MONDAY: Spring equinox sunset watch with Alice at Solstice Park
March 19, 2023 11:14 am
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 |   Skies Over West Seattle | West Seattle news

(December 2022 photo by Jason A.G. Enevoldsen)

Snow was on the ground when educator/expert skywatcher Alice Enevoldsen led her change-of-seasons sunset watch for winter three months ago at West Seattle’s Solstice Park. Now the days are warmer and longer and it’s time to welcome spring. The equinox moment is at 2:24 pm tomorrow (Monday, March 20th) and a few hours later, Alice welcomes you to the park (uphill from the tennis courts at 7400 Fauntleroy Way SW) to learn about what “equinox” really means, and to see how the sunset lines up with the precisely placed rocks at the park. She’ll be there 6:30 pm-7:30 pm; whether it’s in view or not, the sun will set behind the Olympics around 7 pm (usually 10 minutes or so before the “official” sunset time). All ages welcome; serious rain cancels.

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WEST SEATTLE SUNDAY: 17 notes!
March 19, 2023 6:30 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Blossoming tree near Don Armeni Boat Ramp, via Chi K Photography)

Here’s what to know about as we go into the second half of winter’s last weekend, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

TRAFFIC ALERT: Road work just east of the low bridge is expected to continue today, 7 am-3 pm.

GIRL SCOUT COOKIES: Last day for in-person cookie sales. You can look up all the “cookie booths” – locations, dates, times – by going here.

BENEFIT BOOKFAIR: Today’s also the last day you can help Alki Co-op Preschool raise money by shopping with Paper Boat Booksellers (6040 California SW) – details are in our calendar listing.

ONLINE RELIGIOUS SERVICES: We’re continuing to update these – see today’s lineup here.

EASTER BUNNY PHOTOS: First of three days with photo sessions at My Three Little Birds (4736 California SW) in The Junction. Our calendar listing has info and the signup link.

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm, the market offers almost-spring produce as well as flowers, cheese, fish, meat, baked goods, condiments, fresh-cooked food, beverages (from kombucha to beer/wine), nuts, more. Here’s today’s vendor list. (California SW between Oregon and Alaska)

WINTER CLEARANCE SALE: Mountain to Sound Outfitters (3602 SW Alaska; WSB sponsor) is offering end-of-season deals at its Winter Clearance Sale – details here. Open today 10 am-5 pm.

OPEN HOUSE: New bar Revelry Room – in the speakeasy space behind the storefront at 4547 California SW – is having an open house today, 10 am-2 pm.

DONATION DRIVE: Before winter ends, here’s one more chance to donate warm clothing and/or food and/or hygiene items at Alki UCC (6115 SW Hinds), 11 am-3 pm.

FREE COVID VACCINATIONS: Available for children and adults, no appointment needed, noon-4 pm at Our Lady of Guadalupe‘s Walmesley Center (35th/Myrtle).

SEATTLE BADGERS BENEFIT: 2-8 pm, Lady Jaye (4523 California SW) is donating part of today’s proceeds to the Seattle Badgers softball team – details in our calendar listing.

MUSIC AT C & P: 3-5 pm at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), music with Jean Mann, Alicia Healey, Deb Seymour. No cover.

MAGICAL STRINGS AT KENYON HALL: Doors at 3 pm, show at 3:30 pm, Celtic music and dance – more info and ticket link in our calendar listing. (7904 35th SW)

YOGA, MEDITATION, GONG BATH: Presented by Inner Alchemy, 7 pm at Move2Center (3618 SW Alaska), $35.

SUNDAY NIGHT JAZZ: Triangular Jazztet at The Alley (4509 California SW), 8 pm and 9 pm sets.

LATIN SUNDAYS: DJ at The Benbow Room (4210 SW Admiral Way), starting at 9 pm.

SUNDAY NIGHT KARAOKE: 9 pm to 1:30 am at Admiral Pub (2306 California SW).

Have an event to add to our calendar? Please email westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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BIZNOTES: Bar open house; winter clearance sale; hot tea
March 18, 2023 10:22 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

Three notes tonight:

BAR PREVIEW: Derek Moon, the proprietor of Jet City Labs who took over The Junction’s ex-Lika Love space, is also opening a bar in its former rear “speakeasy” space. For a sneak peek, you’re invited to an open house during tomorrow’s Farmers Market. Drop by Revelry Room, behind 4547 California SW, 10 am-2 pm Sunday.

WINTER CLEARANCE SALE: Mountain to Sound Outfitters (3602 SW Alaska; WSB sponsor) invites you to come in for deals:

Mountain to Sound Outfitters is having our annual winter clearance sale now until March 26th! We have some of the best hand-picked winter experts staffed and ready to answer any questions you may have. From just beginning to advanced setups, we have what you need!

Here are some of the highlights of our Winter Clearance:

-Up to 40% off of selected hard and soft goods
-25% off everything else winter in store
-Buy one storage full tune, get one half off (comes with free scrape in the fall)

Come see us and support your local West Seattle ski shop!

Hours at M2SO tomorrow are 10 am-5 pm.

HOT TEA: We mentioned Thursday that the Happy Lemon tea shop at Westwood Village had soft-opened. Since then, several readers have mentioned lines out the door. Andrew sent this photo tonight:

So if you’re planning on going any time soon, be forewarned you might spend some time waiting!

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HELPING: Westside, Explorer West students team with Seola Pond steward for restoration work with native plant
March 18, 2023 7:49 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   Environment | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

Seola Pond [map] has new native plants courtesy of steward Scott Dolfay and students from Explorer West Middle School and Westside School (WSB sponsors). Scott says the annual restoration event happened last Saturday, and this time a King County grant program provided $3,500 to help make it happen.

Scott says he started this work in 2017 and it’s become an annual event, “always with neighbor volunteers and students & teachers from at least one of the 3 schools near the pond; Explorer West, Westside, and The Bridge School.” Scott says the weather was perfect – they did the planting a bit later this year so it wasn’t quite as cold.

Before students got to work, he walked them around the pond “explaining about native vs. invasive plants, the pond’s fauna, and the history of the effort.”

After the students left, he had other visitors: “As I was cleaning up, Mr. Darrell Wallis walked up. He has been mowing the grass with his riding mower on the west and south sides of the pond for years. He announced it was his 86th birthday that day. When I started in 2017 he was skeptical but has been won over seeing the results. Later, two separate elderly bird watchers showed up, happy to see to new work now on the south side.” Scott added, “I could have used at least twice the number of plants but it’s a good start. We planted several trees including one good sized Bosnian pine, I know, not native, but a great tree. As other grants come up I’ll apply so in time the area will be filled in.”

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Car break-in and theft
March 18, 2023 5:17 pm
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

The report and video are from John – the thief comes into view 20 seconds in:

Apartment in 7100 block of California Ave SW, Morgan Junction. Video shows thieves cased all the cars and returned later in car for break in to steal a pair of red colore3d audiophile stereo speakers. A police report has been attempted.

John says this happened aroun 4 am.

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WEST SEATTLE ART: New mural to be created with gift from Dan Wiseman
March 18, 2023 3:26 pm
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

West Seattle’s collection of murals will grow thanks to a gift from the late Admiral District business owner Dan Wiseman. Here’s the announcement from the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce:

Past West Seattle Chamber president Daniel Wiseman passed away on February 17, 2023 and the West Seattle Chamber is declaring April 2nd, 2023 (what would have been Dan’s 70th Birthday) “Dan Wiseman Day” to recognize his contribution to our community.

For the past several years the West Seattle community has come together during Summer Fest to paint a mural of sea life. Local artist Stacey Sterling directs the community project, and the murals hang in Mural Alley in the Junction. Dan Wiseman left funds to pay for a mural. The West Seattle Junction Association and West Seattle Chamber are honored to put that money toward this year’s sea life painting. We will hang the art in Mural Alley and place a plaque next to it in Dan’s honor, remembering his support of the arts and of the West Seattle community.

We are so grateful for Dan’s years of service as a Board Member of the West Seattle Chamber, his volunteerism in the community and being a vibrant business owner (Wiseman’s Appliance) in West Seattle. He will be missed dearly.

Mural Alley is the breezeway on the west side of the 4700 block of California SW.

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WEST SEATTLE WEEKEND SCENE: Recycle/reuse event wraps up
March 18, 2023 12:39 pm
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   Environment | West Seattle news

We’re just back from the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) north lot, where organizers and volunteers have just wrapped up three hours of free recycle/reuse dropoffs and shredding. Our photos show some of what they received.

As we noted when visiting at the start, there was a big line in the early going, but volunteers say that by 11 am, it was “no waiting” mode.

Also, they say there was plenty of truck capacity this year, so none of the dropoff stations had to close early

Partners in making this happen were the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce, West Seattle Junction Association, Seattle Public Utilities, and Waste Management, Friendly Earth, Northwest Center, Seadrunar, and Styro Recycle. They’ll be tallying up the numbers in the days ahead and we’ll publish a followup when that’s available.

P.S. If you missed this, the Fauntleroy Church Recycle Roundup, also a free dropoff event, is happening on Saturday, April 22nd, 9 am-3 pm. And if you’re looking for other options regarding some items that don’t just go in your regular solid-waste carts or dumpsters, see this page on the SPU website.

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PHOTOS: Resident orcas in view from West Seattle
March 18, 2023 10:43 am
|      15 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | Whales

10:43 AM: Thanks to Kersti Muul for the tip – orcas are in the area again and this time it’s Southern Residents – J-Pod. She says they’re southbound in view from Constellation Park right now, “spread out,” some toward Blake, at least one trailing through the Bainbridge/Seattle ferry lane. The whales in the area this past week have been transients so the residents’ visit is “a surprise,” she says. Let us know if you see them!

1:36 PM: Thanks for the updates in comments! Both Kersti via comments and Donna Sandstrom of The Whale Trail via phone report the orcas have turned and are headed NB; Donna says as of a few minutes ago they were in view from Constellation Park (Beach Drive between Alki Avenue and 63rd SW).

3:06 PM: Thanks to David Hutchinson for sending the photos above and below, from the northbound swing, when they were in view from Constellation Park.

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Recycle/reuse/shred event and 24 more things to know for your West Seattle Saturday
March 18, 2023 6:30 am
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Leucistic crow at Lincoln Park, photographed by Cynthia Barrientos)

Last Saturday of winter – and we could see a high past 60. Here are events and notes for today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

RAPIDRIDE H LINE, DAY ONE: As of this morning, Metro Route 120 is officially RapidRide H Line, between Burien and downtown.

ROAD-WORK ALERT: 7 am-3 pm, SDOT is working just east of the low bridge:

For the next two weekends, March 18-19 and March 25-26, we’ll be working on the S Spokane St on-ramp to the Spokane St Swing Bridge. To help address freight traffic back-ups and improve traffic flow near the terminals, we’re reconfiguring the westbound travel lanes to create a longer area for merging and changing lanes.

Work hours are 7 AM to 3 PM. During the work, people driving from East Marginal Way S will not be able to merge onto the Spokane St Swing Bridge. The driving detour is using SR 99 or the overpass on the Spokane St Viaduct

SCOUTING FOR FOOD FYI: As previewed here, you might get a door hanger about this door-to-door food drive; if you can donate, set out your bag early next Saturday (March 25).

GIRL SCOUT COOKIE SALES: Final weekend of in-person sales! Find nearby “cookie booths” by using this lookup.

SATURDAY MORNING ULTIMATE: 8 am at West Seattle Stadium (4432 35th SW), just show up to throw with the West Seattle Ultimate Frisbee Family.

RECYCLE/REUSE/SHRED EVENT: 9 am-noon or until the trucks fill up, bring your recyclables/reusables and/or shredding (see the list here of what to, and not to, bring) to this free event in the north lot at South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) – approach from the northbound side of 16th.

COMMUNITY SCHOOL OF WEST SEATTLE OPEN HOUSE: 10 am-noon, come visit! (9450 22nd SW)

SEATTLE CHINESE GARDEN: 10 am-5 pm, the garden’s centerpiece courtyard is open, while the rest of the garden’s grounds are accessible dawn to dusk. More info here. (5640 16th SW)

GRIEFSHARE RECOVERY GROUP: Continuing at 10:30 am today, “Grace Church will host a 13-week GriefShare recovery support group for those who have lost a loved one by death. There is a one-time charge of $20 for the GriefShare journal.” Meeting in the church basement. (10323 28th SW)

MORNING MUSIC: 10:30 am-noon at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), Marco de Carvalho and Friends perform. Find out about Marco’s music here.

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).

CHEER WSHS BASEBALL AT T-MOBILE PARK: 11 am, admission is free to see the West Seattle High School baseball team play Lake Washington at T-Mobile Park. (1250 1st Avenue S.)

VIETNAMESE CULTURAL CENTER: The center is open to visitors noon-3 pm, as explained here. (2234 SW Orchard)

LOG HOUSE MUSEUM: Visit the home of West Seattle’s history noon-4 pm Saturdays. (3003 61st SW)

COCKTAIL 101 CLASS: 1 pm at Otter on the Rocks (4210 SW Admiral Way).

VISCON CELLARS: 1-6 pm, visit the tasting room at Viscon Cellars (WSB sponsor) – selling wine by the glass or bottle. Learn about their wines here! (5910 California SW)

‘SHE KILLS MONSTERS’ MATINEE & EVENING SHOWS: 2 pm and 7:30 pm, two chances to see the Chief Sealth International High School Drama Club present the school’s first full-length play in some time – see our preview for info including the ticket link. (2600 SW Thistle)

VOLUNTEER FAIR: Bonus reason to visit the Log House Museum (3003 61st SW) – 2-4 pm volunteer fair – come find out about helping out!

THE CHURCH AT EASY STREET: Live acoustic performance and signing, 6 pm at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW).

MUSIC AT C & P: 7 pm, Roo Forrest and Friends at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor).

LIVE AT THE SKYLARK: Doors 7 pm, music 8 pm, with Crow Kid, Love Visa, Sabrina Pirzada, Triple Bogie at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW), $10, 21+.

NORTHWEST SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: The orchestra presents “Music for the Soul,” 8 pm at Holy Rosary (42nd/Genesee) – see the program and ticket info in our preview.

MUSIC AT POGGIE TAVERN: 9 pm-midnight, The Lumberjax play acoustic ’80s music. (4717 California SW)

OUT AT THE BOX: 9:30 pm, drag and more at Box Bar (5401 California SW).

If you have a show, event, meeting, seminar, field trip, fundraiser, class, game, or ? for our calendar … please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Alki man arrested in child-pornography investigation; verdict in Target standoff trial; arson case followup
March 17, 2023 11:59 pm
|      37 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Three notes in West Seattle Crime Watch:

CHILD-PORNOGRAPHY INVESTIGATION: Thursday morning, a reader texted us about what appeared to be a multi-agency warrant raid at a house in Upper Alki. No information was available about it until this SPD post today, and tonight we’ve found out more via court documents. In the initial post, police said, “Detectives with Seattle Police Department’s Internet Crimes Against Children Unit took (the 37-year-old suspect) into custody Thursday morning following a lengthy investigation related to Child Sexual Abuse Material.” They say he confessed “to uploading CSAM material and communicating with others about chatting online with minors” and was booked into the King County Jail. He is not yet charged but had a hearing this afternoon, at which his bail was set at $50,000; he has since posted bond and been released, according to the jail register. Probable-cause documents say the investigation started last May, when an Internet Service Provider reported “that a user had uploaded one or more files containing depictions of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct to their account.” Detectives subsequently identified the suspect via internet and phone records. According to the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, conditions of the suspect’s release include “no contact with minors without exception, and to not access the Internet without monitoring software.”

TARGET STANDOFF VERDICT: Last week we reported that the trial had begun for 32-year-old Timothy A. Clemans, charged with attempted first-degree kidnapping for trying to take hostages at knifepoint in the Westwood Village Target store last year. An hours-long standoff ensued. The trial, in which Clemans was representing himself, was expected to last up to two weeks, but our check of online court files tonight reveals it lasted just one week. According to court documents, Clemans was found guilty as charged, with the added finding that he was armed with a deadly weapon. He is scheduled for sentencing before King County Superior Court Judge Marshall Ferguson on April 7th.

ARSON ARRAIGNMENT POSTPONED AGAIN: The man charged with arson in the two-alarm 17th/Barton apartment fire, 35-year-old Ermiyas N. Woldearegay, has yet to be arraigned, though four weeks have passed since charges were filed. Court documents show his first date was postponed because he was “medically unavailable”; the second and third dates, he refused to come to court. The most recent document indicated Woldearegay’s defense lawyer was hoping to meet with him to see if the issue of competency “needs to be raised.” However, the document also said Woldearegay had been refusing jail visits.

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