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West Seattle scene: Cheering for the Hawks, with expert guest
December 7, 2014 4:19 pm
|    Comments Off on West Seattle scene: Cheering for the Hawks, with expert guest
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle people | WS & Sports

Go, Hawks! The photo and report on a one-of-a-kind viewing party happening right now are from Southwest Seattle Historical Society executive director Clay Eals:

Enjoying the ‘Hawks at Alki Fatburger with expert commentary from NFL coach Ken Flajole and supporting the Southwest Seattle Historical Society — what could be more fun on a Seattle Sunday? Flajole (lower left), former 16-year assistant coach of four NFL teams including the Seattle Seahawks, joined Eric Bell (to Flajole’s left) and seven of Eric’s buddies to take in the ‘Hawks/Philadelphia Eagles game this afternoon at Alki Fatburger, which donated the lunch at the SWSHS 2014 Champagne Gala Brunch. Others in the group (counter-clockwise from Eric) were Ricardo Cruz, Scott McClellan, Alex Shearer, Robert Ponselle, Lindsey Smith (Alki Fatburger manager), Christopher Goethe, Liz Day (the volunteer who put this Gala package together), Charles Smith, and Robin Warma.

More info here; here’s our coverage of the SWSHS gala on November 8th.

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Happening now: Santa, snacks, shopping @ Holly Jolly Holiday Fest
December 7, 2014 2:56 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   Holidays | Neighborhoods | West Seattle news

Don’t know whether Santa lost his smartphone or picked up because he knew someone was calling in with a Christmas wish, but we caught him in the British-style phone booth in the lobby at The Sanctuary at Admiral, where the new-this-year Holly Jolly Holiday Fest continues until 4 pm, presented by the Admiral Neighborhood Association.

In the heart of The Sanctuary – a city landmark that was once a church – you’ll find free treats plus a mini-bazaar with local businesses/organizations including the new Seattle Farm School and WSB sponsor Mode Music Studios, which brought some students for holiday music:

You’re also invited to come talk to neighborhood reps over cookies and mulled cider. ANA is the same group that brings you Summer Concerts at Hiawatha every year as well as meeting most months (resuming in January, second Tuesday, 7 pm, at The Sanctuary) to focus on issues/concerns. They support the 4th of July Kids’ Parade, too, whose co-organizer Jackie Clough of Alki Party Treasures (WSB sponsor) was spotted chatting with Mr. Claus:

Stop by before 4 pm, 42nd and Lander, across from the northeast corner of the park adjacent to Hiawatha CC.

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West Seattle Crime Watch: Burglar(s) hit Westwood Village; package thefts, including one on video
December 7, 2014 12:51 pm
|      29 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Five reports in West Seattle Crime Watch today:

BURGLAR(S) HIT WESTWOOD VILLAGE: Thanks for the texts about the board-covered doors at Wyatt’s Jewelers (WSB sponsor) and neighboring NK Nails at Westwood Village. We talked to Kirk Keppler from Wyatt’s. He said they were hit just before 4:30 am; security and police were there within minutes, but the burglar(s) had made their getaway. Investigators have prints and video to work with; Wyatt’s is proceeding with its originally scheduled Open House today (continuing until 4 pm), after hours of cleanup. They were even planning to defiantly and festively put a bow on the board over the door. (added – here’s the photo:)

Four reader reports today as well – all but one involving package theft. The first one has a package thief caught on video:

That’s from Todd, who has also provided the video to SPD after the theft at his home in the 3600 block of 35th SW. Todd says it happened last Thursday night. Any idea who that is? Case number to refer to if you are calling in a tip to SPD is #14-404125.

Ahead – three more theft reports, two involving packages:

Read More

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Happening now: Santa, carriage rides @ West Seattle Junction Hometown Holidays 2014
December 7, 2014 11:40 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

(WSB photos)
It’s partly sunny and fully cheery in The Junction right now on Hometown Holidays Sunday – above, Santa’s in the house at City Mouse (4218 SW Alaska), BYO-camera photos until 2 pm, within view of the California/Alaska pickup spot for free carriage rides:

They’re also continuing until 2 pm, as is the nearby West Seattle Farmers’ Market, where you’re invited to enjoy a free cup of hot apple cider today. After today, next up on the Junction Hometown Holidays (co-sponsored by WSB) lineup: The holiday edition of the West Seattle Art Walk next Thursday (December 11), 6-9 pm, which happens to be Shop Late Thursday, too

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West Seattle Sunday: Admiral’s new ‘Holly Jolly Holiday’; carriage rides and Santa in The Junction; morning & evening bazaars; more!
December 7, 2014 8:44 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

(This morning’s foggy moonset – photo by Lynn Hall)

Good morning! If you haven’t already browsed our West Seattle Holiday Guide and regular calendar to see what’s up – here are the highlights, from mid-morning on into the night!

JUNCTION SANTA: DIY Santa photos (bring your camera!) at City Mouse as part of West Seattle Junction Hometown Holidays, 10 am-2 pm. (4218 SW Alaska)

MULE-DRAWN CARRIAGE RIDES: 10 am-2 pm, also part of Hometown Holidays (co-sponsored by WSB): “Take a carriage ride down California Avenue pulled by beautiful Belgian Draft Mules. A treat the whole family and friends will enjoy. Stop off at the Farmers Market for a complimentary hot apple cider.” (California/Alaska)

PATHFINDER WREATH SALES: Also in The Junction, 10 am-2 pm, the second of three Sundays (while supplies last!) for Pathfinder K-8‘s wreath fundraiser – selling their famous wreaths made by the school community from local greenery – here’s our photo from last Sunday:

Details in our calendar listing. (California/Alaska)

SEATTLE SAMPLING: Final day of holiday studio tour, with 4 of the 10 studios in West Seattle – Brace Point Pottery, Village Green Nursery, Ceramistas Seattle, Penguina Designs. 10 am-5 pm. Detailed tour information at seattlesampling.com.

TIBBETTS CRAFT BAZAAR: Holiday craft bazaar at Tibbetts United Methodist Church (WSB sponsor),11:30 am to 1:30 pm, including hand-sewn items, crafts, stocking stuffers, baked goods, & jewelry. (3940 41st SW)

NEW THIS YEAR – HOLLY JOLLY HOLIDAY FEST: New event in Admiral – the Holly Jolly Holiday Fest, presented by the Admiral Neighborhood Association, noon-4 pm at The Sanctuary at Admiral:

The Admiral Neighborhood Association welcomes a visit from Santa Claus on Sunday, December 7th at the Sanctuary at Admiral!

Santa’s visit will be part of our Holly Jolly Holiday Fest, a full afternoon of holiday activities including live holiday music, a gingerbread house contest, a craft bazaar, and a food drive for the West Seattle Food Bank. A photographer will be available to take portraits with Santa for a small donation, or you can bring your own camera.

If you made a gingerbread house to enter in the contest, drop it off by 10:30 am; judging starts at 11 am. Otherwise, drop by The Sanctuary noon-4 pm! (42nd/Lander)

OPEN HOUSE AT WYATT’S: Holiday Open House at Wyatt’s Jewelers (WSB sponsor) at Westwood Village, noon-4 pm. “Nibbles, bubbles, storewide specials.” (2600 SW Barton)

CAPERS SANTA: DIY Santa Photos at CAPERS in The Junction, with “ex-Westwood Santa.” Noon-3 pm. Bring cameras/phones, kids/friends, and a donation for the West Seattle Food Bank. (4525 California SW)

BLITHE BAZAAR: Cozy afternoon/evening of shopping and sipping, supporting West Seattle artisans. At Community School of West Seattle. 3-7 pm. (9450 22nd SW)

‘JUDY’S SCARY LITTLE CHRISTMAS’:”Matinee today at ArtsWest in The Junction, 3 pm. Buy tickets online here. (4711 California SW)

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’: Matinee today at 3 pm for Twelfth Night Productions‘ radio play edition of the holiday show, at Kenyon Hall. Buy your ticket(s) online at brownpapertickets.com/event/917572 or an hour before showtime at the venue box office. (7904 35th SW)

CHOCOLATE *AND* SINGALONG! Admiral Sings Christmas at Admiral Congregational Church, 3:30 pm Grand Chocolate Buffet, 4 pm festive concert and singalong of favorite Christmas songs and carols. Admission free (suggested donation $10); nonperishable food donations welcomed, for local food banks. (California/Hill)

ST. NICHOLAS FAIRE: First Lutheran Church of West Seattle‘s St. Nicholas Faire, 4-7 pm, fundraiser for West Seattle Food Bank and West Seattle Helpline, admission $5/person with nonperishable food item, $15/family with food donation for each family member, or, without food donation, $10/person or $25/family. Appetizers and spiced hot cider; elegant bake sale items; silent auction with a variety of gift baskets- puzzles, games, wine, art & educational activities, gift certificates to local businesses, food -themed baskets, Seahawks and Sounders gear, etc! Plus a ring-toss game to win wine prizes and wine tasting. (4105 California SW)

HOLIDAY SCENES AS THEY HAPPEN … while we’re out and about, we’re usually updating the WSB Twitter and Instagram feeds with quick pix – so check in, and share yours too, through either of those links or editor@westseattleblog.com – thank you!

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Video: Songs, jokes at 2014 West Seattle Junction Tree Lighting
December 6, 2014 10:05 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

The countdown and light-up came earlier than expected at tonight’s West Seattle Junction Hometown Holidays Tree Lighting. The crisply planned program moved swiftly – one performance needed to be moved back, so another was moved up, and that led to some time-filling with a little unexpected comedy. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves. Again this year, the Chief Sealth International High School Marching Band, directed by Marcus Pimpleton, kicked off the event:

Sealth’s band was the opening act; here’s our video of the entire event that followed:

On behalf of the sponsoring West Seattle Junction Association, for which she serves as vice president, Bakery Nouveau co-proprietor Heather Leaman greeted the crowd gathered in Junction Park Plaza:

Words of cheer ensued from emcee Josh Sutton (below left) of the West Seattle YMCA and from Dave McCoy (below right) of Emerald Water Anglers, photographed with event manager Oliver Little:

(The Y and EWA are both WSB sponsors.) As they do each year, the Endolyne Children’s Choir provided cheery carols (see them at 2:16 into our full-event video):

Things moved along so quickly, the next scheduled performer wasn’t on hand yet – so a little time had to be filled while things changed up. Emcee Sutton solicited holiday jokes from the kids standing right up by the stage:

The humor was a little grim, if creative, as you can hear for yourself for about two minutes starting at 12:40 into the full-event video (right before Jay Cates and friends’ jazzy holiday music). The tree countdown starts at 17:50 (and ended a bit early, in keeping with the night’s theme). Cates and band continued the holiday serenade, with the finale from the new ArtsWest (WSB sponsor) production “Judy’s Scary Little Christmas,” and then it was back to the Junction Holiday Party – after a moment of stopping to admire the tree.

More Hometown Holidays fun tomorrow – mule-drawn carriage rides 10 am-2 pm from California/Alaska, and a Santa meet-and-greet (BYO camera) at City Mouse (4218 SW Alaska) those same hours. See you there!

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West Seattle holidays: Tree lit, Holiday Party continues in Junction
December 6, 2014 6:39 pm
|    Comments Off on West Seattle holidays: Tree lit, Holiday Party continues in Junction
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

The West Seattle Junction‘s Christmas tree is lit, as of about an hour ago. We’ll have full coverage of the celebration in a separate story, but first – The Junction’s first-ever Holiday Party late-shopping event, before/during/after the tree lighting, continues until 8 pm. The decorations in the heart of the business district have an extra-festive touch – look closely and you’ll even see little candles:

Many shops have special events – Sarah Loertscher and her jewelry are at Click! Design That Fits (WSB sponsor):

Dasher the holiday-cheer ambassador was sighted at CAPERS (which shared the photo):

Here’s the list of who is doing what. If you miss the chance to shop late tonight, there are two more Shop Late Thursdays, the 11th (which is also Art Walk night) and 18th. And in The Junction tomorrow, along with the regular Farmers’ Market 10 am-2 pm, you’ll also find carriage rides and a Santa meet-and-greet – details are in the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide.

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West Seattle Rotary Children’s Shopping Spree 2014: New location, same giving
December 6, 2014 4:20 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Holidays | Rotary Club of West Seattle | West Seattle news

(WSB photos by Torin Record-Sand)
He sees you when you’re sleeping … he sees when you’re awake …” The all-seeing Santa can even see you when you’re smiling right behind him. So went the holiday joy this morning during the Rotary Club of West Seattle‘s annual Children’s Holiday Shopping Spree – which had one big change this year:

It happened bright and early this morning at Sears in Southcenter – after many years at Sears in SODO, which closed earlier this year, requiring the Rotarians to find someplace new to bring the dozens of students who would spend the morning shopping with volunteers.

It’s a huge effort to organize – so the Rotarians are joined by many other volunteers, including other service organizations, like the Omega Psi Phi fraternity:

Participating kids also get to dine during the spree, and Southcenter’s Rainforest Café stepped up to help with that:

That’s Rotarian Dave Nichols with one of the café mascots. As always, kids went home with new wintertime wear, to be sure they’ll stay warm:

And they’ll remember warm smiles, like that of Rotarian Tara Luckie:

The club has fundraisers throughout the year to pay for the annual Shopping Spree – here’s how to donate.

And if you’re interested in checking out Rotary membership, stop by one of their weekly lunch meetings, usually noon Tuesdays at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor).

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Traffic alert for Highway 99/Viaduct because of downtown protest
December 6, 2014 3:53 pm
|      6 COMMENTS
 |   Alaskan Way Viaduct | West Seattle news

First we got a text saying that protesters downtown were blocking the Seneca offramp from the Alaskan Way Viaduct; minutes later, a tweet suggested the protest was wrapping up, but now Seattle Police just tweeted:

No word how long this might last, but if you’re downtown trying to get to The Viaduct or vice versa, now you know.

P.S. Just a reminder that a *scheduled* closure of Highway 99, both ways, is still on for late tonight/early tomorrow morning, 11:59 pm-5 am.

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West Seattle Crime Watch: Latest stolen car to watch for
December 6, 2014 2:23 pm
|    Comments Off on West Seattle Crime Watch: Latest stolen car to watch for
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Deb reports her husband’s black 1996 Honda Civic DX 2-door coupe was stolen sometime between 7 pm Friday and 7 am today on 31st SW in Westwood – license ALL7382. One distinctive feature – the bumper and fenders were recently replaced, so they were “primer black.” If you see the car, call 911.

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West Seattle wildlife: Recent coyote-sighting reports
December 6, 2014 1:24 pm
|      6 COMMENTS
 |   Coyotes | West Seattle news | Wildlife

One person who recently reported a coyote sighting phrased it more as a surprise that they are in West Seattle. So that’s why we mention them from time to time … in hopes fewer will be surprised. That report was from a man out with his 3-month old daughter who saw it in the 37th/Hudson vicinity. Other recent reports include an early-morning sighting as a coyote emerged from Lincoln Park; a coyote running down 40th SW in Gatewood, toward Othello; one jumping over a 6-foot fence in Arbor Heights to try to get a backyard chicken; two in Highland Park around HP Way and Othello; 6700 block of 42nd in Morgan Junction; and one near Fauntleroy and Dawson.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SEE ONE? As the experts advise – try to scare it away – shout, wave, throw rocks, and remove every source of food you can (that includes outdoor pet food as well as small pets themselves, although experts say they more often eat small wild animals such as rats). Want to see where else they’ve been reported in the six-plus years we’ve been publishing sightings? Click the word “coyotes” under the headline of this story, to reach the archive.

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Update: Most of this morning’s power-outage area is reconnected
December 6, 2014 10:53 am
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   Utilities | West Seattle news

10:53 AM: Another widespread power outage that’s mostly south of us – but it’s affecting the lights at a key intersection on the southeast edge of West Seattle, a texter just confirmed, saying the 4th/Roxbury/Olson lights are out (treat it as a stop-all-ways intersection until they’re back!). Here’s the City Light map showing the outage affecting areas of South Park, North Highline, south White Center, Top Hat, and Boulevard Park.

11:28 AM: Except for Boulevard Park and vicinity, the SCL map now shows most have their power back. (For the record, here’s a screengrab showing the full area that WAS affected.)

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Happening now: Pancakes and photos @ West Seattle Kiwanis’s annual community breakfast
December 6, 2014 10:30 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Holidays | How to help | West Seattle news

Santa Claus‘s day started well before dawn – and the Kiwanis Club of West Seattle‘s annual Community Pancake Breakfast is one place you’ll find him. The breakfast continues until 11 am and diners get a free Santa photo – that includes the West Seattle High School Key Club (a Kiwanis youth project), who were with him when we got to that side of the room at the Alki Masonic Hall. A bustling room, too:

All around the room, helpers including local Boy Scouts are making sure things run smoothly. In the kitchen, Kiwanians are busy cooking pancakes and sides:

West Seattle Hi-Yu royalty is on hand, not just because it’s one of their community appearances, but also in this case, Junior Court Queen Bianca Carufel is celebrating her birthday:

Next Monday, by the way, the new Junior Court will be coronated, 7 pm at Admiral Congregational Church, and you’re invited. But first, if you haven’t had breakfast yet, get over to the Masonic Hall (40th/Edmunds – the parking lot’s being renovated so you’ll park either across Edmunds or across Fauntleroy) by 11 – proceeds help with the club’s many charity projects. (WSB is among this year’s table sponsors, along with other local businesses.) And if you miss the Kiwanians today, you’re invited to check out one of their regular weekly meetings, 6:30 pm Wednesdays at the Senior Center of West Seattle.

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West Seattle Saturday: Pancakes; bazaars; Junction Tree Lighting; Santa photos (for pets too!); music; non-holiday events too!
December 6, 2014 7:33 am
|      11 COMMENTS
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

(Also happening this morning: West Seattle Rotary Children’s Shopping Spree – full story to come!)

From pre-dawn until long past dark, this is the busiest day of the holiday season in West Seattle! From our Holiday Guide and Event Calendar, here are the many reasons why – along with non-holiday highlights for today/tonight:

PANCAKE BREAKFAST: Santa photos for kids up to age 10 are part of the Kiwanis Club of West Seattle‘s 67th annual pancake breakfast, on now and continuing until 11 am at Alki Masonic Hall. $10 at the door, kids under 10 eat free. **Bring unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots!!** (40th/Edmunds – note that parking is across Edmunds or across Fauntleroy)

CHRISTMAS BAZAAR AT VFW HALL: Happening at VFW Post 2713 in The Triangle, 9 am-6 pm – details on the official flyer. (3601 SW Alaska)

SEATTLE PRESCHOOL PROGRAM MEETINGS: Two today at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center regarding the in-formation, voter-approved city program – 10 am-12:30 pm, on curriculum; 2-4:30 pm, on teacher training/coaching. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

WESTSIDE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 10 am-noon, all-school open house, as previewed here on Friday. (7740 34th SW)

HOLIDAY BAZAAR AT SLHS: Seattle Lutheran High School‘s third annual Holiday Bazaar, in the gym, 10 am-3 pm; details here. (4100 SW Genesee)

HOLIDAY ARTS/CRAFTS AT WSUU: 5th annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Show in the Social Hall at Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation Social Hall, 10 am-4 pm: “You are invited to our fifth annual sale of gifts by local community and WSUU artists and handcrafters. You’ll find original, one-of-a-kind gifts: felted hats, knits, jewelry, watercolor paintings, designer bags and accessories, greeting cards and stocking stuffers, edible holiday goodies, glass art, fiber art, more. Free refreshments.” (7141 California SW)

PET PHOTOS WITH SANTA, 10 am-2 pm at Pet Elements in Morgan Junction. $25, with $5 donated to Furry Faces Foundation; you’ll get a 5×7 and a digital file. (6511 California SW)

FOOD DRIVE: 10 am-2 pm, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Northwest (WSB sponsor) Food Drive for the West Seattle Food Bank, at West Seattle Thriftway (California/Fauntleroy).

JEWELRY SHOW AT CLICK! 11 am-8 pm (continuing through the Junction Holiday Party), Sarah Loertscher is at Click! Design That Fits (WSB sponsor) “with studio samples, one of a kind pieces and an extended selection of her jewelry line.” (4540 California SW)

SANTA AT SMALLCLOTHES: Santa Al will be at SmallClothes, bring your own camera or get a photo for $5, 11 am-2 pm. (3215 California SW)

GIVE THE GIFT OF VOLUNTEERING: 11 am-1 pm is the monthly volunteer-orientation event at the Southwest Seattle Historical Society‘s Log House Museum. You’d be surprised at how many types of skills SWSHS can use – come find out how to help. (61st/Stevens)

‘SANTA PAWS’: 4th annual Santa Paws event sponsored by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Northwest Realty (WSB sponsor) – “Bring your pets in for a FREE photo with Santa! 12-4 pm in the Jefferson Square Building, 2nd floor lobby.” (4700 42nd SW)

SANTA AT CAPERS: DIY Santa Photos at CAPERS in The Junction, with “ex-Westwood Santa.” Bring cameras/phones, kids/friends, and a donation for the West Seattle Food Bank. Noon-3 pm. (4525 California SW)

COUCH FEST FILMS: Starting at 1 pm, this citywide-and-beyond not-in-theaters film festival includes three West Seattle venues. Here’s the official Seattle program, listing what’s being shown, when, and where. If you don’t have tickets already, buy the pass at your first stop. West Seattle Office Junction (WSB sponsor) is participating at 6040 California SW, where the documentary shorts will be shown (33-minute program in all) – the other two WS sites are 6017 49th Ave SW, with the “Inappropriately Awesome” shorts (32 minutes), and the “Mixed 1” collection will be screened at 3011 SW Cycle Court.

CHRISTMAS TEA & SILENT AUCTION … at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, 2-5 pm.

More details here – and we have late word (along with the teapot photo shared by Leanne) that tickets ARE available! “The decorations are up, the tables are set, and the preparations are well underway. Tickets are still available for the fun, festive, fabulous Christmas Tea at St. John’s. The event also includes a silent auction, and the long awaited quilt raffle drawing. Event tickets are $20 per person, $10 for children age 12 and under.” (California/Hanford)

HOLIDAY PARTY IN THE JUNCTION … as part of Hometown Holidays (co-sponsored by WSB)! Multiple businesses participating. 4-8 pm, before, during, and after the Junction Tree Lighting, roam from store to store to celebrate: “Businesses throughout The Junction are each hosting events and parties on the same night, yet each doing something different. Think of it as a progressive party with drinks, nibbles, games and shopping. We’ll also be dressing up The Junction with candles to light the way. It will be enjoyable as a pre- or post- Tree Lighting Event activity but also a festive event on its own.” Details here.

12 BARS OF CHRISTMAS:, benefit pub crawl, 4 pm in The Junction – details in our calendar listing.

WEST SEATTLE JUNCTION TREE LIGHTING: 5 pm at Junction Plaza Park, presented by the West Seattle Junction Association as part of the all-season-long Hometown Holidays events: Josh Sutton of the West Seattle YMCA will emcee; you’ll also hear from Bakery Nouveau co-proprietor Heather Leaman on behalf of WSJA and from Emerald Water Anglers proprietor Dave McCoy on behalf of the merchants’ Holiday Party event, which will start at 4 pm, before the lighting, and continue until 8 pm. (Details here!) You’ll get to carol and to enjoy live performances by the Chief Sealth International High School Marching Band (starting around 4:45 pm), the Endolyne Children’s Choir, by cast members from ArtsWest‘s “Judy’s Scary Little Christmas,” and by Jay Cates. (42nd/Alaska)

EVENING SANTA PHOTOS … with Santa Al at QFC’s outdoor area across from/during the Junction Tree Lighting (42nd/Alaska), 5-6 pm, bring a can for West Seattle Food Bank. (42nd/Alaska)

HOLIDAY BEAUTY EXPO: 5-7 pm at Shanti Salon & Spa. Aveda makeup artist consultations & touchups, refreshments including champagne, complimentary bang trims and hair/skin consultations. (2138 California SW)

WEST SEATTLE MEANINGFUL MOVIES: 7 pm, “The Health Care Movie,” at Neighborhood House’s High Point Center. Details here. (6400 Sylvan Way)

HOLIDAY CONCERT: Cantaré Vocal Ensemble presents Vivaldi’s “Gloria” and fresh takes on your favorite Christmas carols, 7:30 pm at Holy Rosary Church. (42nd/Genesee)

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’: Join Twelfth Night Productions this holiday season for the radio-play edition of the much-loved holiday tale, 7:30 pm at Kenyon Hall. Buy your ticket(s) online at brownpapertickets.com/event/917572 or an hour before showtime at the venue box office. (7904 35th SW)

‘JUDY’S SCARY LITTLE CHRISTMAS’: Holiday show at ArtsWest (WSB sponsor) in The Junction, 7:30 pm. Buy tickets online here. (4711 California SW)

AND THOSE ARE JUST THE HIGHLIGHTS … browse the Holiday Guide and Event Calendar for even more options. Have a great Saturday!

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West Seattle holidays: Our Lady of Guadalupe decides to ‘Light Up the Night’ instead of a tree
December 5, 2014 10:14 pm
|    Comments Off on West Seattle holidays: Our Lady of Guadalupe decides to ‘Light Up the Night’ instead of a tree
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

That’s what you’ll see when you drive by Our Lady of Guadalupe at 35th/Myrtle this holiday season. This year, instead of lighting the big evergreen on the southwest side of the church, OLG decided to save some green and light up its grounds. But tonight’s lighting ceremony was just as festive, with emcee Brian Callanan (center) joining Father Jack Walmesley (right) and choir members under the tree as usual to lead caroling:

(We’ll be adding video.) The almost-full moon took the “Light Up the Night” theme seriously enough to shine over the crowd.

Battery-powered candle-style lights were distributed to add to the light – and warm hearts brought food to fill the donation sleigh inside the Parish Center:

Hot cocoa was served up too … welcome on any winter night, even with the knowledge that, as emcee Brian observed, tonight’s temperature was about twice what this night brought last year!

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West Seattle holidays: Holy Rosary’s ‘Deck the Halls’ party
December 5, 2014 9:18 pm
|    Comments Off on West Seattle holidays: Holy Rosary’s ‘Deck the Halls’ party
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

Instead of a red-nosed Reindeer, Santa Claus was joined tonight at Holy Rosary School by a green-suited Gator. The school’s mascot was there for the “Deck the Halls” celebration, featuring the ceremonial Christmas-tree blessing by Father John Madigan:

The school’s Christmas-tree lot (a seasonal WSB sponsor) is on the north side of the campus, raising money for the school and local charities through December 14th. Tonight’s celebration also filled the halls with holiday music:

That’s the 6th-grade choir. Instrumentalists included Brian on the dobro:

Christmas is also the season of sweets, and a tempting table of desserts was at the ready:

And a chance to mingle:

Or get that Santa photo (once the Gator moved on):

(Tonight’s photos, we’re told, will turn up here.) The spirit of the season was also celebrated with a collection of food donations.

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‘One inch of ground settlement’ detected for Alaskan Way Viaduct, tunneling-machine repair pit
December 5, 2014 5:13 pm
|      26 COMMENTS
 |   Alaskan Way Viaduct | Transportation | West Seattle news

(Added: Recent WSDOT photo of access pit, shared via Flickr)
5:13 PM: WSDOT says it will be inspecting the Alaskan Way Viaduct and vicinity this weekend after detecting more ground settlement. Seattle Times (WSB partner) transportation reporter Mike Lindblom reported it earlier this afternoon, and now WSDOT has this statement on its website:

Public safety is our top priority, which is why we installed a state-of-the-art settlement monitoring system as part of the SR 99 Tunnel Project. Recently, that system detected approximately one inch of ground settlement near the pit Seattle Tunnel Partners is building to access and repair the tunneling machine. We have also seen the same amount of settlement on the Alaskan Way Viaduct; the amount of settlement lessens in the surrounding area.

Some settlement was expected during tunnel construction and while the tunneling machine repair work was underway. This settlement appears to have occurred in the last month.

We have observed no new damage to the viaduct nor have we observed any effect on buildings or utilities in the surrounding area. WSDOT crews are conducting additional surveys this weekend to verify this information, including an inspection of the viaduct and a visual inspection of the adjacent areas.

While we are conducting this additional work, we are confident that there is no risk to public safety. We will provide an update early next week.

Even before the tunneling project began, Viaduct managers had noted ongoing settlement, usually described as minor (as in this 2010 report). Nothing about settlement was mentioned at the regional stakeholders’ meeting we covered last Monday, but we imagine it’ll come up when the City Council’s Viaduct Committee meets early next week.

6:08 PM: We asked WSDOT spokesperson Laura Newborn if this is the reason the Saturday night/early Sunday Viaduct closure was expanded to both directions, and she confirmed that was done “so extra survey work could be completed.”

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Seattle annexation for White Center? Council to consider it again
December 5, 2014 4:19 pm
|      15 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | White Center

4:19 PM: Just spotted on the City Council’s Introduction/Referral Calendar – a proposal to ask White Center and the rest of unincorporated North Highline to vote on annexation to the City of Seattle. Documents accompanying the resolution say that it’s not likely the vote could be held before 2016, because of the Boundary Review Board process that would have to lead up to it. No date set yet for this to come before the council. The most recent attempt to annex the area was by Burien, rejected by voters in the potential annexation area two years ago. We’re seeking reaction and more information about the new Seattle proposal – more to come.

4:38 PM UPDATE: The resolution traces back to a discussion in the council’s Education/Governance Committee earlier this week, as detailed in this memo. It is time-sensitive – unless Seattle takes a step like this before the end of the year, the state tax credit that’s been in place several years as an annexation incentive will expire. That tax credit, offering $5 million a year for a decade, wouldn’t be enough to cover projected costs of bringing the annexation area into the city, so there’s talk of asking the Legislature for more – that was mentioned by Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon at a 34th District Democrats’ meeting earlier this fall. More to come …

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West Seattle Crime Watch: Car stolen again, ‘Club’ and all; apparent package theft thwarted; mail theft…
December 5, 2014 3:47 pm
|      12 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Three Crime Watch reader reports this afternoon – first, maybe you’ve seen Brian‘s stolen car?

My 1995 Subaru Legacy Wagon was stolen across SW Graham Street from “The Bridge.” Happened sometime between 12/4 – 3 PM and 12/5 – 9 AM. The car has a dented front left corner and a black front bumper. Nothing valuable in the car. I had “The Club” on the steering wheel, but I guess that’s not enough these day. I reported this to the police this AM. Incident number 14-403536.

This car (sans Club) was stolen a few years back. I found it four blocks away a couple of days later. Hoping for the same this time.

If you see Brian’s car, please call 911. Ahead, the story of an apparent package theft, thwarted, and mail theft seen (but not stopped):

Read More

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West Seattle holidays: Junction Party & Tree Lighting tomorrow!
December 5, 2014 1:26 pm
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 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

(WSB photo)
Tomorrow’s the night that the humble official Junction Christmas Tree will start to glow from tip to … sidewalk. (And the weather will be about 30 degrees warmer than last year!) From the West Seattle Junction Association, which presents the all-season-long Hometown Holidays events, here’s the plan for Saturday’s 5 pm tree-lighting ceremony: Josh Sutton of the West Seattle YMCA will emcee; you’ll also hear from Bakery Nouveau co-proprietor Heather Leaman on behalf of WSJA and from Emerald Water Anglers proprietor Dave McCoy on behalf of the merchants’ Holiday Party event, which will start at 4 pm, before the lighting, and continue until 8 pm. (Details here!) You’ll get to carol and to enjoy live performances by the Chief Sealth International High School Marching Band (starting around 4:45 pm), the Endolyne Children’s Choir, by cast members from ArtsWest‘s “Judy’s Scary Little Christmas,” and by Jay Cates. Come on down to Junction Plaza Park at the northwest corner of 42nd/Alaska.

P.S. Tons of Junction fun on Sunday, too, including carriage rides and Santa photos – see the Hometown Holidays section on The Junction’s website and the WSB Holiday Guide for all the who/what/when/where.

P.P.S. Per our customary disclosures – WSB is a Hometown Holidays co-sponsor, and three organizations/businesses mentioned above – West Seattle Y, Emerald Water Anglers, and ArtsWest – are current WSB sponsors.

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Big pour after big dig: ’20 trucks an hour’ was not an exaggeration
December 5, 2014 11:48 am
|      10 COMMENTS
 |   Environment | West Seattle news

(WSB photos by Patrick Sand)
Just back from checking out the next big phase of work at the Murray Combined Sewer Overflow Project site across from Lowman Beach – the first of three days of pouring concrete for the 17-foot-thick base on which the million-gallon storage tank will sit. King County Wastewater Treatment was not exaggerating when it warned of ~20 trucks an hour – we spent about 15 minutes at the site, and counted seven trucks arriving in the span of five of those minutes as we waited to cross Lincoln Park Way back to our car.

Two big pump trucks are continuously pouring what those trucks are bringing (here’s a bit of video via Instagram) – scheduled to continue until about 6 pm today, and then again on Tuesday and Wednesday of next week, 7 am to 6 pm or until done. As mentioned in the alert, there are extra parking restrictions in the area until this is over. The entire facility is on a timeline for completion in mid-2016. The excavation that preceded the foundation pour took two months and removed what the county described as enough dirt to fill nearby Colman Pool twice.

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Westside School: Toy drive through Wednesday; open house Saturday
December 5, 2014 11:31 am
|    Comments Off on Westside School: Toy drive through Wednesday; open house Saturday
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

Two notes from Westside School (WSB sponsor):

(Photo courtesy Westside School)
TOY DRIVE THROUGH WEDNESDAY: Added to our West Seattle Holiday Guide, in the section where you’ll find opportunities for giving:

Since 2004 Westside School’s Kindergarten classes have championed a Toys for Tots drive. Over the past ten years they have collected more than 1,800 toys for children in our local community. This year Westside School was named an Official Toys for Tots Drop Site. NEW, unwrapped gifts may be dropped off through Wednesday, December 10th. Westside School is located at 7740 34th Ave SW.

OPEN HOUSE ON SATURDAY: If you’re school-shopping for 2015-2016, Westside would love to see you tomorrow:

Westside School is holding an All School (PreK – 8th grade) *Open House* on Saturday, December 6th from 10 am until noon. This is a great opportunity for prospective families to tour the school and speak with the faculty and staff (no reservation required). The application deadline for the 2015-16 school year is January 14th. Westside School is also offering parent tours during the school day by appointment.

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West Seattle Friday: Big holiday weekend begins! OLG, Holy Rosary, HPIC celebrations; Words/Writers/WS; low-tide walks; more
December 5, 2014 9:27 am
|    Comments Off on West Seattle Friday: Big holiday weekend begins! OLG, Holy Rosary, HPIC celebrations; Words/Writers/WS; low-tide walks; more
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Olympics, Vashon & Blake Islands, Sunday photo by Christopher Frankovich)
This weekend is full of holiday fun, and it starts tonight, as listed in the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide (which has events and info stretching all the way to New Year’s) – we’ll go through the holiday events first, followed by the non-holiday highlights:

FESTIVUS PARTY: West Seattle Tool Library and Sustainable West Seattle‘s Festivus-themed holiday party, 5-9 pm at SODO Maker Space – details in our calendar listing. (1914 Occidental Ave. S.)

SEATTLE SAMPLING: 3-day holiday arts/crafts tour with 4 of the 10 studios in West Seattle: Brace Point Pottery, Village Green Nursery, Ceramistas Seattle, Penguina Designs. 4-9 pm tonight; detailed tour information at seattlesampling.com.

CORNER BAR, FEATURING UGLY SWEATER CONTEST: Holiday fun tonight during HPIC’s Corner Bar – ugly-sweater contest with a prize! Live music with Sundae & Mr. Gossel. More details here – bring nonperishable-food donations. 6 pm, Highland Park Improvement Club. P.S. Looking for truly LOCAL gifts? Highland Park hoodies on sale. (12th/Holden)

HUSKY DELI OPEN HOUSE The legendary Husky Deli holiday open house, with samples and smiles, 6-9 pm. (4721 California SW)

DECK THE HALLS: Community celebration and tree blessing at Holy Rosary School, 6-8 pm, including: Hot Cocoa Bar, Christmas Desserts, Festive Christmas Crafts, adult beverages, Dante’s Inferno Gourmet Hot Dogs, and an indoor snowball competition! (Tree blessing set for around 6:40 pm.) Bring nonperishable food to donate. (42nd/Genesee)

LIGHT UP THE NIGHT: New format as Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish & School invites you to “Light Up the Night: An Evening of Caroling and Community,” with lights – not the big tree this year, something new! – singalong, and food drive (fill the sleigh in the parish center just north of the church). 7 pm. (35th/Myrtle)

DANCE! Highland Park Elementary‘s annual winter dance, 7-8:30 pm in the cafeteria. “Music will be provided by DJ Danny F, Yuen Lui will be on hand to take family portraits, and there will be baked goods for sale. Admission is $2 per person, or $5 per family. We would love to see you there!” (10th/Trenton)

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’: Join Twelfth Night Productions this holiday season for the radio-play edition of the much-loved holiday tale, 7:30 pm at Kenyon Hall. Buy your ticket(s) online at brownpapertickets.com/event/917572 or an hour before showtime at the venue box office. (7904 35th SW)

‘JUDY’S SCARY LITTLE CHRISTMAS’: Holiday production continues tonight at ArtsWest (WSB sponsor) in The Junction, 7:30 pm. Buy tickets online here. (4711 California SW)

And from the regular WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

WORDS, WRITERS, WEST SEATTLE: The monthly Southwest Seattle Historical Society-presented event is set for 5-7 pm at Westwood Village Barnes & Noble, this time around featuring children’s-books author Karen Robbins and illustrator Sally Marts. They’ll talk about their collaboration – with kids from around the country – on “Shoe Print Art: Step Into Drawing.” More details in our calendar listing. P.S. SWSHS gets a share of B&N purchases made by attendees! (2800 SW Barton)

NIGHTTIME TIDEPOOL WALK: Seattle Parks presents a low-tide beach walk at Emma Schmitz Memorial Overlook (across from Me-Kwa-Mooks) tonight, 9 pm-10:30 pm. You have to register in advance – our calendar listing explains how. Low tide is -1.9 just after 10 pm. (4503 Beach Drive SW)

(added) ANOTHER NIGHTTIME TIDEPOOL WALK: The Seattle Aquarium has one tonight too – 9 to 10:30 pm at Constellation Park south of Alki Point, free, hot chocolate too. Details here.

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