West Seattle, Washington
06 Sunday
Photos by Leda Costa for West Seattle Blog
How often do you get to take a swing at a piñata with the help of a school principal? At Denny International Middle School – at least once a year. That’s Denny principal Jeff Clark in his legendary “Denny Dolphins blue” suit at last Friday night’s Posada Navideña holiday celebration on campus. Along with games and food, music and dance filled the night:
Some of the performers were students, including the Folklorico Club from Chief Sealth International High School next door:
And the Denny/Sealth Mariachi Band, with alumni joining students.
Denny’s Mariachi Club, by the way, starts up again in January, for any interested students. Meantime, the crowd was again delighted by guest stars Banda Vagos:
They’re a popular Seattle group performing the brass-based “banda” style of music:
And once they got going, some Posada-goers just had to dance:
It was a night for memories – Andrea LaVare snapped the Folklorico Club::
Thanks to Denny PTSA co-president Manuela Slye for the lineup on this year’s event, which also included activities including writing thank-you notes for teachers and, for any interested families, a chance to get clothing and supplies courtesy of Communities in Schools:
The Posada is now a longtime Denny holiday tradition – the first one was back in 2010
Do you know how the city’s hate-crime law works, and doesn’t work? Awareness-raising is part of what the city hopes to accomplish with councilmembers unanimously passing Seattle’s first anti-hate resolution today. It was sponsored by the two West Seattle-residing councilmembers – District 1’s Lisa Herbold and at-large (citywide) Lorena González. You can read the text here. The news release announcing the passage quotes Herbold as saying that it’s “our duty as a city to be explicit in our support and protection for our friends, our family members, our caregivers, activists, educators, social workers, and service industry employees and other members of vulnerable constituencies who are threatened by malicious acts.” González also is quoted: ““With today’s vote we unequivocally state that we will not capitulate to fear. Together, we will make it easier for people to report incidents of bias-motivated threats, harassment, and violence.” Herbold explained the inspiration for the resolution in this post last week.
Four reader reports in West Seattle Crime Watch:
STOLEN CAR: From Mark:
I want to report a stolen vehicle and ask folks to watch for it. We’ve already made a police report. My wife’s teal green 1997 Honda CR-V was stolen from in front of our house on Gatewood Hill sometime between 9 p.m. and 11:00 a.m. (December 11-12). The license plate number is ASL1972 and the VIN number is JHLRD1854VCO37773. Although I don’t have a photo of the car itself, the attached photo is of the same make/model/year vehicle and color.
PACKAGE THIEF: This one struck in Sylvan Ridge on Friday – Joey sent the clip:
UPPER MORGAN PROWLER: Jeff sent the clip:
It accompanied his message to neighbors: “We had another unwelcome visitor last night at 1:35 AM. He walked in off of the alley between 38th SW and 39th SW until enough lights went on to discourage him. If you had anything disturbed this could be the guy.”
MISSING A BIKE? No photo, but Vivian says, “Last night and again this am there are two bikes, not locked up, on the SE corner of Holden and 24th. One on the ground, the other next standing next to a tree.”
Thanks again to everyone sharing Crime Watch reports so your neighbors all around the peninsula know more about what’s happening – hope crime does NOT happen to you, but if it does, once you’ve reported it to police (911 if it’s happening now or just happened), let us know … 206-293-6302 if breaking, editor@westseattleblog.com if not — thank you.
From Anthony at Southwest Pool:
Southwest Pool is collecting nonperishable food and snacks for the West Seattle Food Bank. Last year we brought in 300 pounds of donations. The food drive is now through Friday (December 16th).
To give back for community support, today through Friday, the Southwest Pool will also have specific discounted swims for persons who donate 3 or more nonperishables to the activity.
Here’s the schedule for that:
Southwest Pool is at 2801 SW Thistle.
(Live WSF webcam photo from Fauntleroy dock)
As part of the process of fixing problems plaguing the Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth (aka “Triangle”) ferry route, Washington State Ferries promised last month that it would put together a task force. Today, WSF has taken the next step – calling for volunteers:
WSF is now seeking volunteers for the Triangle Improvement Task Force. The task force is the citizen advisory group that will be charged with:
· examining the situation on the Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth ferry route
· recommending “quick wins” to improve service by summer 2017
· coming up with recommendations for the long termThe task force will begin meeting in January and will consist of nine volunteers, three each from the Fauntleroy, Vashon and Southworth communities. For more information on the process and to apply to be a task force member, please visit our volunteer application page. Applications for volunteers are due Dec. 27, 2016.
(Saturday photo by Clay Eals: At left, Pat Gedney talks with Southwest Seattle Historical Society volunteer Bobbie Meehan while contemplating the purchase of a blue, etched Alki Lighthouse during the Alternative Giving Fair)
Were you part of local holiday history last weekend? Judy Pickens tells WSB that many people opened their hearts and wallets during a first-of-its-kind holiday-giving event:
On Saturday, West Seattle residents dipped their toes into a different way of giving to family and friends by donating $6,895 to nonprofits during this area’s first Alternative Giving Fair. Hosted by Fauntleroy Church, the fair featured 15 local and international organizations that support elders, care for the natural world, feed the hungry, and promote healthy communities. Thanks, West Seattle, for bypassing more stuff, to give from the heart!
Still looking for holiday-giving opportunities? See the WSB Holiday Guide.
(Hummingbird in Fauntlee Hills – photographed by Jamie Kinney)
Highlights for today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide and year-round Event Calendar:
AT HIGHLAND PARK IMPROVEMENT CLUB: Afternoon and evening yoga, and then Dads’ Book Club tonight. Check the HPIC calendar for more. (12th SW/SW Holden)
WSHS GIRLS’ BASKETBALL BENEFIT: 5:30-8:30 pm all-you-can-eat taco bar at Pecado Bueno, benefiting the West Seattle High School Girls’ Basketball program via the WSHS Booster Club. (4523 California SW)
‘THE LITTLE MATCH GIRL PASSION’: 7:30 pm at ArtsWest, the second of four performances of this Pulitzer Prize-winning choral work. Ticket info is in our calendar listing. (4711 California SW)
WAX & OIL: Live oil painting and DJ set, 8-11 pm at Parliament Tavern. Details in our calendar listing. (4210 SW Admiral Way)
CRACKER FACTORY: Live at West Seattle Brewing in The Triangle, 8 pm. 21+. (4515 Fauntleroy Way SW)
(SDOT MAP with travel times/video links; is the ‘low bridge’ closed? LOOK HERE)
(Click any view for a close-up; more cameras on the WSB Traffic page)
6:48 AM: Good morning! No new snow but the National Weather Service says there’s a chance of a little bit late today or tonight – not even enough chance for an official alert, though.
No traffic incidents in or from West Seattle so far.
One more note – it’s the last week before winter break; Seattle Public Schools will get out one hour early this Friday, and then it’s break time until classes resume Tuesday, January 3rd.
Two projects in West Seattle are going through Design Review, but at the levels that don’t require public meetings, so if either or both interest you, you’ll want to send in comments ASAP. First one is in north Morgan Junction:
6016 CALIFORNIA SW: This project [map] is going through “administrative design review.” It’s proposed for 36 apartments – thirty of them “small efficiency dwelling units,” formerly known as microhousing – plus three live-work units. No offstreet vehicle parking; 28 spaces for bicycles. Through December 21st, you can comment on “early design guidance,” which focuses on the size and shape of the project. The EDG “packet” by architecture firm Hybrid is here, including this roughed-out concept:
The official notice explains how to comment. We first wrote about redevelopment plans for this site back in August.
Now, the South Delridge project:
9217 and 9223 16TH SW: December 21st also is the comment deadline for this eight-unit, four-building townhouse project [map], which is going through “streamlined design review.”
See the full “packet” by Ryan Rhodes Designs by going here. It says the project proposes one offstreet-parking space per unit. The official notice shows how to comment.
A celebration of Joel P. Eggert‘s life is now set for December 18th, one week from today, starting with a memorial ride. His friend Jamie Burton Chamberlin shares the details tonight, after this remembrance:
Joel was a very special man to so many people. He was a father, a son, a brother, a grandfather, a grandson, an uncle, a cousin, a nephew, a friend and most importantly, a lover. He was a lover of everything and everyone. Joel always had a camera in his hand as he found the beauty in everything and wanted to capture it. Joel died doing what he loved in the city he loved.
In a tragic accident, he crashed his motorcycle in West Seattle on Sunday, December 4th, on the way home from watching the Seahawks annihilate the Panthers. His motorcycle was not just one of his many passions, it fed his soul. He lived to ride and was never far from his amazing group of motorcycle brothers.
Joel was an artist. Always drawing, designing, and welding… he made incredibly beautiful things. He worked for Delta Marine and in his years there he marked dozens of amazing yachts with his beautiful designs. Joel lived for music… his soul sang to all of us. Most every night you would find him somewhere, whether it be home or out and about, listening to a new band or an old favorite, surrounded by friends, and making new ones. Joel made music as well – his guitars were his favorite tools, but he could rock the drums and even the piano. Music oozed from this man. The Seattle Music scene lost their biggest fan and will miss his presence greatly.
Joel was born in Minnesota and grew up in Rockford, MN. In 1994, he spread his love across the country to Seattle, but he stayed in contact with his childhood friends, and when he visited it was like he had never left. In his nearly 47 years on the planet, Joel touched the hearts of everyone who knew him and never left without a goodbye that included one of his amazing hugs. Even after his passing, he continues to change people’s lives as an organ donor; donating both kidneys, his liver and his beautiful, strong heart.
COMMEMORATION INFORMATION, NOON-6 PM DECEMBER 18
Please help us celebrate the life of Joel Patrick Eggert … Not enough can be said about how special he was to each and every one of us, and now we have a day to share our memories, recollections, music and stories.
Musical Performances by Darci Carlson, Kim Virant, Matt Strutynski, Ten Miles Wide, Windowpane, and many other Special Guests.
Special Patching Dedication and Toast by Parker Lundgren.
This event is open to the public and seating will be limited. Anyone with special seating needs please contact slimslastchancebooking@gmail.com
To share photos for the slideshow presentation, please send them to: joeleggertrocks@gmail.com by Wednesday, 12/14/16.
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A Memorial Motorcycle Ride will begin 10 am at The Orient Express, 2963 4th Ave S. All riders participating are requested to arrive and be parked at Slim’s by 11:45. For further info, contact Charlie Lorme, 206-817-3786.
(UPDATED MONDAY with more photos)
(Photos by Leda Costa for WSB)
4:48 PM SUNDAY: It’s a silent auction, benefit, bake sale, wine tasting, and more, a highlight of the holidays, and it’s happening now. Until 7:30 pm on the lower level of First Lutheran Church of West Seattle – this year’s St. Nicholas Faire. As noted in our calendar listing, there’s an admission charge – discounted if you bring nonperishable-food donations for the West Seattle Food Bank – and it goes to help the WSFB and the West Seattle Helpline. Don’t miss the gift baskets that are hand-assembled and up for grabs via the silent auction – they all have a theme, such as a hobby, sports team, type of toy, favorite food, etc. Go have fun while providing holiday-season help to neighbors in need.
ADDED MONDAY: More photos! First – St. Nicholas Faire organizer Lorraine King and her daughter:
First Lutheran Church pastor Rev. Ron Marshall was all smiles as he called out raffle winners:
Always a highlight – the ring toss. If your ring lands on a wine bottle, you win!
Also featured: A dessert table:
Gina and Lily Allen browsed the silent auction:
Here’s just part of what was up for grabs:
The unsung heroes of local city-run community centers are their advisory councils – and the one at Hiawatha Community Center recently said goodbye to its longtime president, and wanted to publicly share words of thanks:
The Hiawatha Community wishes to thank Rob Wunder on his 25 years of service to the West Seattle community as President of Hiawatha’s Advisory Council.
Rob grew up in West Seattle and spent a great deal of his childhood enjoying the activities offered at Hiawatha’s Community Center. As an adult, he felt that it was his calling to give back to a place that provided so much enrichment to him during his youth. Rob, in his capacity as President, has been instrumental in leading positive change for the community and the Seattle Parks system. All his actions were driven by his view of the big picture and his passion to make a difference for the community.
Rob was instrumental in two special projects that families will enjoy well into the future; The Hiawatha Field Replacement Project and Dakota Place Park Project. Do you remember when the beautiful turf and track was just dirt? Or when Dakota Place Park was an old City Light station? We now enjoy these beautiful amenities because of his countless volunteer hours, his ability to speak for positive change, and his passion for equity and access with affordable programs across the community, expanded programs in West Seattle, and support of our youth.
During Rob’s tenure as President at Hiawatha, important programs were implemented and grew, such as child care, athletics, preschool, tween, recreation, ballet, summer camp … the list goes on and on! Hiawatha’s special events attracted thousands, such as summer concerts, Halloween carnivals, and pancake breakfasts, because Rob was a strong advocate for his community.
While this is a short list, it doesn’t come close to covering Rob’s hard work or expressing our gratitude to him, as he is truly an exceptional individual. His selfless commitment to community, hard work, and strength as a leader has created a lasting legacy upon the residents of West Seattle, past, present and future. We thank him for all that he has done for our community over the years.
(The Associated Recreation Council partners with Seattle Parks and Recreation to provide lifelong learning opportunities and advocating for the success of recreation services at Hiawatha.)
Amplifying the voices of Seattle renters is the spotlight issue on the Admiral Neighborhood Association agenda this Tuesday (7 pm, December 13th). Here’s the announcement from ANA president Larry Wymer:
Zachary DeWolf – a communications, policy, and community-development professional – is both director of communications and education with Pride Foundation, and president of the Capitol Hill Community Council. Following Mayor Murray’s cutting of formal ties with the neighborhood district-council system, contending that they don’t adequately reflect the full diversity of their neighborhoods, Mr. DeWolf (along with Joel Sisolak, who launched the Capitol Hill Renter Initiative and hosted the Capitol Hill Renter Summit) will describe his and Joel’s efforts to lead a citywide effort to initiate a renters’ commission that would help assure that city policymakers considers the effects on renters who typically are younger, less wealthy, less white, and less car-dependent than their home-owning counterparts.
Ultimately, this is about including voices that are all-too-often left out of the critical conversations that are shaping the future of our city.
We will also complete Nominations for Admiral Neighborhood Association officers for 2017, with Elections to follow (hopefully) at this meeting, or a meeting in the near future.
The ANA meets at The Sanctuary at Admiral, at 2656 42nd Ave SW. Our monthly meetings are held the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 7:00 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.
The photo and report are from Seal Sitters volunteer David Hutchinson:
Last Tuesday, Seal Sitters was involved in an unusual situation. While on a routine check of the Don Armeni boat ramp, we came across a dead bald eagle on the beach. Contact was made with US Fish & Wildlife in Redmond (425-883-8122) and permission was given for us to retrieve the carcass and keep it on ice until the next day when it would be picked up by an enforcement officer. We were informed later that the eagle had been checked very closely and that it “appears to be a natural death”. Please be aware that it is illegal to possess dead eagle parts or feathers, except in certain cases – see the links below. Birds can transmit diseases to humans – protective gloves should always be worn when handling sick or dead birds.
Based on a comparison of photos, it is believed by Seal Sitters that this eagle is the same as the one seen frequently over the last few months, perching on light poles and on the beach along Alki Ave and at Duwamish Head. That eagle had damage near the pupil of its right eye – as shown in the included photo taken back on September 3rd . This damage was confirmed on examination by USFW.
Just a reminder that as part of NOAA’s West Coast Marine Mammal Stranding Network, Seal Sitters responds to live or dead marine mammals on the beaches of West Seattle. Please contact our hotline at 206-905-7325 to report these cases. Seal Sitters is not responsible for responding to reports of dead or live birds. Please check out the following links for the appropriate contacts and additional information.
US Fish & Wildlife Service
Another interesting site for information on the National Eagle Repository
PAWS – Progressive Animal Welfare Society, in Lynnwood
(We believe the eagle shown in three photos in this WSB item from September is the one David’s referring to.)
Thanks to artist Mindi Katzman for today’s featured photo, one more from our snowy Friday. She says her dinosaurs in the snow are Ziggy, M Rex, and Bébé, all made from powder-coated steel. Now, whats up today/tonight, starting with highlights from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide:
FINAL DAY FOR HOLY ROSARY TREE LOT: ****9 am-6 pm**** is the last scheduled day for the Holy Rosary Tree Lot, north of the school. Part of this lot’s proceeds benefit West Seattle Helpline, Hickman House (domestic-violence shelter), and West Seattle Food Bank. (41st/Dakota)
And now .. Santa’s appearances today!
SANTA AT MY THREE LITTLE BIRDS: Today IS really the day that “Santa Al” is at My Three Little Birds (WSB sponsor) in Morgan Junction, 11 am-2 pm. Bring your own camera – OR a professional photographer is there and will take a pic for $5. (6959 California SW)
SANTA AT CAPERS: 9 am-noon, at CAPERS in The Junction. Photos free but $ donation requested for West Seattle Food Bank. (4525 California SW)
SANTA’S HOUSE IN THE JUNCTION: Today and next Sunday, 10 am-2 pm, you’ll find Santa’s House in The Junction as part of Hometown Holidays (co-sponsored by WSB), by KeyBank. (California/Alaska) P.S. While you’re in The Junction, show your local independent shops some extra love, to help them catch up from Saturday’s outage!
PATHFINDER WREATHS: Pathfinder K-8 School is selling its famous handmade wreaths again in The Junction by the Farmers’ Market, 10 am-2 pm. (California/Alaska)
ORNAMENT WORKSHOP: Ornament workshop, tree-trimming and lunch at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, 11:30-1:30 in the Parish Hall. “Everyone is invited to help make Christmas ornaments for our Parish Hall Christmas tree. We will be serving a festival punch and hot spiced cider. Come and get creative and decorate our 10-foot tree! Make and take a few home to trim your own tree.” (3050 California SW)
HOLIDAY POP-UP: West Seattle Moms’ Holiday Pop-Up, 2-6 pm at Pinwheels Playspace in White Center. Handmade goods & more. (9988 15th Ave SW)
ST. NICHOLAS FAIRE: Charming and unique evening holiday bazaar and fundraising event at First Lutheran Church of West Seattle, to raise money for the West Seattle Food Bank and the West Seattle Helpline:
We offer appetizers and spiced cider or mulled wine; silent auction of gift baskets featuring beer, wine, coffee, kitchen items, games, puzzles, art activities, Seahawks & Mariners gear, baked goods, children’s books, etc, and gift cards from local merchants and restaurants. Plus a ring-toss game and wine tasting.
4:30-7 pm on the lower level of First Lutheran Church of West Seattle. $5 donation per person with non-perishable food item or $15 per family with food donation for each member. If no food donation, $10 per person or $25 per family. (4105 California SW)
GUNGOR ACOUSTIC CHRISTMAS SHOW: 8 pm @ Hope Lutheran Church, more info here. $18 general admission; buy tickets here. (4456 42nd SW)
MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET: Matinee today for the Twelfth Night Productions presentation of “Miracle on 34th Street: A Live Radio Play.” 3 pm at Kenyon Hall. Buy your ticket(s) online at this Brown Paper Tickets link or before the show at the box office. (7904 35th SW)
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And from the year-round WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and inbox:
WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm today and year-round (but remember it’ll be closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day since those fall on Sundays this year), in the street, in The Junction. (California SW between SW Oregon and SW Alaska)
GRAND OPENING: Lil’ Bug Studio opens in White Center today, with a 2-5 pm community event. Details on our WC site White Center Now. (10007 13th SW)
LADIES’ MUSICAL CLUB: Free concert, voice and piano, at West Seattle (Admiral) Library, 3 pm. Details in our calendar listing. (2306 42nd SW)
(Alki Beach Park stop – 1st two photos by Don Brubeck)
9:51 PM: The Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship is wrapping up a night of stops in our area – Lowman Beach Park, Alki Beach Park, Duwamish Waterway Park on the river in South Park, and Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor). At most park stops, bonfires keep the beachgoers warm:
The ship travels with musical groups on board, serenading passengers as well as those on shore, visiting an ever-longer list of stops around Puget Sound, Lake Union, and Lake Washington during the holiday season. Its sailings continue nightly until Christmas Eve-Eve (December 23rd) – here’s the schedule on the Argosy site.
ADDED SUNDAY MORNING: More from the Alki stop – the photos and video are by Jeff Larson, for WSB. The Calvary Chapel “live nativity” is a fixture every year:
Kayla Laskovon portrayed Mary:
Musicians from Seattle Lutheran High School performed at the Bathhouse:
While the Christmas Ship is provided by Argosy, much of what happens onshore is courtesy of Seattle Parks. Below, John Hasslinger surrounded by his teen volunteers from Hiawatha Community Center:
Their work was appreciated by eventgoers:
And that bonfire? Overseen by James Lohman and Becky Lofso from Parks:
Check our Holiday Guide for more of what is in store as the holiday season continues.
8:19 PM: We’re getting texts about what people think are gunshots or fireworks – pretty sure it’s the latter, as Seattle Sounders FC just won the Major League Soccer championship in Toronto. Congratulations to the Sounders – including Zach Scott, the West Seattleite who announced months ago that he would retire after this season – and fans!
Pure joy. #MLSCup pic.twitter.com/85rpxTS7aJ
— Seattle Sounders FC (@SoundersFC) December 11, 2016
8:28 PM: Speaking of West Seattleites, the congratulatory statement from King County Executive Dow Constantine:
They fought, and they won. Congrats to the Sounders for bringing the MLS Cup to Seattle. Our team’s march to the championship was an inspired comeback — from last place to the Championship. Toronto played a great match but the Sounders, led by Coach Schmetzer, had destiny on their side.
Fans across the region welcome the 2016 Sounders in the Parthenon of champs including the 1979 SuperSonics, 1991 Huskies, 2004 and 2010 Storm, and 2013 Seahawks. We love you Sounders, we do.
ADDED: Tuesday will be the big day – details still in progress. From the Sounders’ statement:
… Media and fans should be advised that Sounders FC is set to hold its MLS Cup Champions March and Rally on Tuesday, December 13 at midday.
Full details regarding timing, locations and the march route are being made available in the coming days in conjunction with the City of Seattle and other civic constituents.
ADDED SUNDAY MORNING: Fans are also invited to cheer the Sounders’ arrival at Boeing Field today – from the team’s announcement:
The team is expected to arrive at approximately 3:15 p.m. PT, and both media and fans are invited to come to Boeing Field’s King County International Terminal to welcome the victorious Rave Green home. Please note that the team’s arrival time is subject to change based on travel delays. … Fans are being asked to gather outside the main terminal, where the team will exit to greet the crowd upon arrival.
The family of Joyce Gould is sharing this remembrance with the community:
Joyce Gould, age 94, passed away on November 22, 2016, at her home in West Seattle.
She is survived by her two children, David Gould and Janet Walters; spouses Peggy Cummings and John Walters respectively; grandchildren Eric Gould and spouse Dwight Gaut, Stacie Worden and spouse Seth Worden, and Ty Walters; and great-grandchild Danielle Miller.
Joyce was born in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, and grew up in the states of Wisconsin, Michigan,
and New York. Living in Norwich, New York, she married James Gould, her husband for the next 69 years, and after World War II moved to Seattle for economic and educational opportunities — a better life and future for themselves and their family. She worked at a variety of jobs, including several years on the Washington State Ferry system. Along the way, she helped her husband remodel several homes, and they built the home they lived in for the remaining 36 years of her life.
Funeral services will be held later in December at Tahoma National Cemetery. Remembrances may be made to a charity of your choice in her memory. Arrangements by Howden-Kennedy Funeral Home. Share your memories of Joyce here.
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries by request, free of charge. Please e-mail the text, and a photo if available, to editor@westseattleblog.com)
The anti-Santas are at it again. Five reader reports in West Seattle Crime Watch:
BRAZEN BURGLAR(S): From Matt:
Our home (4000 block 57th Ave SW) was burglarized mid-morning (Wednesday, 12/7). Fairly brazen entry. Police officers believe more than one entered through a secured back door by breaking a window with a thrown rock. This must have made a loud noise as the rock and glass shards traveled and spread some distance throughout the house. Every room was ransacked, so they were in the home for some time. Jewelry, laptops, printer and a slew of misc (and some very heavy) items taken. They left through the garage and grabbed power tools and a heavy tool box along the way.
The thieves then targeted an elderly neighbor’s home across the street. They threw bricks through a large den window to gain access, but the owner was home and able to verbally scare them off. This neighbor then heard a loud (bad muffler?) small car take off.
TAKEN IN CAR PROWL: Seen any of these items?
I am writing to report my SUV was broken into last night in Arbor Heights some time between 3am-9am. No windows were broken; somehow they popped my back hatch. They took a bag with an extra pair of clothes, makeup etc. The bag was a blue large xfinity bag; the contents were a pair of black yoga pants,a blue long-sleeve top, a military green jacket,a bunch of makeup and makeup brushes, toothbrush, deodorant & my son’s beanie. Not worth much but if anyone finds it I’d love to have it back. Please call or text me @ 206-735-1198.
STOLEN GROCERIES FOUND: From Dave:
At about 11a, residents of Genesee Hill recovered 3 bags of groceries dispersed along the edge of a park. This was an Amazon grocery delivery, and all the bags were ripped open, so it appears someone stole the bags from a doorstep expecting to find valuable holiday gifts, and then dumped everything onto the side of the road when they discovered it was all food.
Luckily the food was outside very briefly, because the bags were not even damp. All the food is in great condition and indoors now. The grocery order includes rice crackers. If someone believes this is their delivery, please call the SPD non emergency # to recover it. SPD has been notified. Otherwise we will donate it to the food bank on Sunday.
206-625-5011 is that number, by the way.
PACKAGE THIEVES AT IT AGAIN: From Clayton:
I live up by Riverview Park, Orchard Street just above 16th SW. Came home and found multiple boxes from Amazon and others ripped open and on my lawn… called police, who will pick up boxes, and called companies who deliver to report… looks like someone is stealing holiday packages off people’s porches.
ALSO STOLEN FROM PORCH: Package theft hit at Sheri‘s townhouse earlier this week, too, in the Morgan Junction area. It was supposed to arrive on a certain date but instead was left early, while she was out of town.
(First two photos by Orla Casey)
ORIGINAL REPORT, 1:25 PM: Seattle Fire is responding to a call characterized as a “minor explosion” near Fauntleroy and Alaska. At least one witness say it’s blown off a “manhole cover” near Spruce/LA Fitness. Power is out to more than 3,200 homes and businesses in West Seattle as a result, according to the City Light outage map. More to come.
1:32 PM: This has escalated to a “vault fire” callout.
1:38 PM: Adding a photo. Lots of emergency vehicles and big traffic backups, so avoid the Fauntleroy/Alaska area TFN.
1:49 PM: City Light says they hope to restore power “within a few hours.” SFD has canceled some of the units responding to the vault fire (for the commenter who asked what that means – it’s an underground vault that’s part of the electrical system). No word of any injuries so far.
1:55 PM: Now up to more than 3,900 homes and businesses out – this is on the City Light map as two separate outages, 3,200+ and 600+. Adding a screengrab momentarily for the record:
1:59 PM: And then … some got their power back, so the outage has returned to 3,200+. Thanks for the updates in comments – that’s usually first word of power restoration!
2:12 PM: Commenter Matt shared the photo you see above – the smoke coming from underground right in front of Spruce/LA Fitness just after explosions were heard. Meantime, the number of homes/businesses without power is down to 1,820.
2:33 PM: Seattle Fire has completely cleared the scene, meaning the fire is out. In addition to those still without power – an outage also affecting some traffic lights in the area – we also have several mentions that Comcast service is out.
2:52 PM: Just added above, our upload of Matt’s video (linked in comments) of the vault smoke from earlier. Meantime, more comments are saying power’s back, even in the immediate vicinity. Thanks for the updates!
3:55 PM: Down to 136 out, per SCL map.
9 PM: Five hours after that note – they’re still out. Meantime, a Spruce resident has published video from the aftermath of what happened this afternoon:
9:22 PM: Minutes before the estimated time of restoration, the power’s back for all, according to the City Light map. (Call SCL if yours is NOT back yet!)
Thanks to Val for the photo: SDOT was out installing one of the final components of the SW Admiral Way project west of California SW today. The sign was described on the project map last summer as “new westbound radar feedback sign at high speed location.”
Seattle Parks is working on a plan for the future of its “Soft Surface Trails” around the city. Your thoughts are being sought – including at a December 20th meeting – not in West Seattle, but not far:
This meeting provides an opportunity to learn about soft surface trails in Seattle and to provide input on the plan for trails within SPR’s natural areas. The final plan will include recommendations for trail-maintenance standards, levels of service and trail hierarchy, a determination process for how new trails are formed and overall guidance for the future of trails throughout Seattle. This plan is not specific to one particular park or area.
The trails meeting is at 6 pm December 20th at the Jefferson Horticulture Building, 1600 S. Dakota. The preview on this Parks website also includes a contact for questions and comments if you can’t make it to the meeting.
The snow’s mostly gone, but the memories aren’t. So we’re sharing Eugene‘s great Friday morning photo from Myrtle Reservoir Park as we look ahead to your Saturday. First, from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide:
SANTA! Sightings today include:
SANTA AT CAPERS: From CAPERS in The Junction, bring-your-own-camera Santa photos 9 am-noon. Free but monetary donation for the West Seattle Food Bank suggested. (4525 California SW)
SANTA AT THE SCHOOLHOUSE: Fauntleroy Schoolhouse Santa photos with Gail Ann Photography – here’s how to get an appointment, or drop in 9 am-4 pm. (9131 California SW)
SANTA PAWS: Get your Santa-and-pet photo during Santa Paws at West Seattle Windermere from 10 am-1 pm: “This is a free event that invites families, and their pets, to come take a picture with Santa! We are accepting canned-food donations for the West Seattle Food Bank.” (4526 California SW)
[UPDATE: Santa Al is actually at My Three Little Birds TOMORROW (Sunday) 11 am-2 pm!]
Also from the Holiday Guide today:
FIRST TIME EVER! West Seattle’s first Alternative Giving Fair with some 20 local and national non-profits welcoming donations that feed the hungry, support elders, care for creation, and strengthen community for all children. At Fauntleroy Church, 10 am-2 pm. Here’s a video invitation from Karyn Frazier, via the Southwest Seattle Historical Society (which is participating):
(9140 California SW)
CONCERT: Endolyne Children’s Choir “Winter Fantasy” Concert, 11 am at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church. Free (suggested donation $5/person, $20/family). “Featuring all three of our choirs, with singers in grades K-10. We’ll perform a variety of winter and holiday favorites, including songs celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, among many others. Reception will follow the show.” (3050 California SW)
LUNA PARK CRAFT FAIR: 11 am-4 pm, on the patio at Luna Park Café: “Handmade crafts from Luna Park Cafe employees and friends. Original art, prints, photography, jewelry, candles, terrariums, soaps, buttons, patches and much more. Great ideas for stocking stuffers and gifts from local artists.” (2918 SW Avalon Way)
ART UNDER $100: This huge sale starts with a VIP Hour ($20 via Brown Paper Tickets) from 1:00 – 2:00 pm, then free entry 2-8 pm. Presented by South Park Arts at Seattle Design Center.” (5701 6th Ave S.)
PARTY ON THE PORCH: It’s a Holiday Party on the Porch at the Log House Museum. 2-4 pm, before the Christmas Ship comes to Alki. (61st SW/SW Stevens)
HOLIDAY CRAWL: West Seattle Santa pub crawl, 6 pm – full details in our calendar listing. 21+.
‘MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET’: Join Twelfth Night Productions this holiday season for “Miracle on 34th Street: A Live Radio Play.” The show’s at Kenyon Hall. Buy your ticket(s) online at this Brown Paper Tickets link or before the show at the venue box office. (7904 35th SW)
CHRISTMAS SHIP IN WEST SEATTLE AND SOUTH PARK: This is it – the Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship in West Seattle, plus its first-ever stop in South Park! Here are the stops are on the schedule for this night:
-3:25 to 3:45 pm at Lowman Beach Park
-4:10 to 4:30 pm at Alki Beach Park (here’s what else is happening before and after)
-8:00 to 8:15 pm at Duwamish Waterway Park in South Park
-9:05 to 9:25 pm at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor)
Dickens Carolers are this evening’s performers for all stops.
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Now, from our year-round WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and inbox:
INTRO TO FLY CASTING: Free class at Lincoln Park, offered by Emerald Water Anglers (WSB sponsor) – more info in our calendar listing. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)
IMMIGRATION RESOURCE FAIR: At Denny International Middle School, 10 am-1 pm – details in our calendar listing. (2601 SW Kenyon)
SOUNDERS MATCH @ OUNCES: If you’re looking for someplace to watch tonight’s MLS Cup (Sounders FC vs. Toronto, 5 pm) – Ounces will have it on the screens indoors and outdoors. (3809 Delridge Way SW)
BLAKE TOMASH: Singer-songwriter performs live at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)
LIT END: 4-piece band from Olympia, live at Poggie Tavern, 9-midnight. 21+. (4717 California SW)
EVEN MORE LIVE MUSIC FOR TONIGHT … at other West Seattle venues, on our complete calendar!
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