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UPDATE: Police pursuit on Delridge Way, followed by ‘rescue extrication’ callout for crash inside building
February 4, 2025 9:42 pm
|      10 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS breaking news

(SDOT camera screenshot)

9:42 PM: If you saw the police chase that just went northbound on Delridge Way, it’s a King County Sheriff’s Office case, possibly related to gunfire, according to discussion on SPD radio. No other details yet.

9:46 PM: This apparently ended with a “car into building,” according to the “rescue extrication” callout just dispatched.

9:49 PM: Officers told dispatch the building is the HR Block office at Delridge/Andover. KCSO reportedly has taken one suspect into custody. … Delridge is “completely shut down” at Andover. Two people have been rescued from one vehicle and SFD says there’s another injured person in another vehicle.

9:56 PM: Police report the signals at the intersection have been knocked out of power.

(WSB photos from here)

10:28 PM: Just went to the scene – one car is in the HR Block, another crashed on the southbound roadside.

Street will be closed at least another hour per police.

10:58 PM: More pics added. We’re still working to get more info on the circumstances and injuries. We don’t know for sure which of the crashed vehicles was the one being pursued – but the pursuit was northbound, and the HR Block is on the northbound side ….

11:16 PM: Commenter Miriam – who says they were in a third damaged car – says the car inside the HR Block is indeed the one that was being chased. Meantime, KCSO spokesperson Capt. Tim Meyer tells us this is what preeded it:

This incident began around 9:00 PM when deputies responded to the 11500 blk of 10th Ave S for a report of shots or a pellet gun heard. A suspect vehicle was later located by responding deputies and a pursuit ensued. This ended in a collision with two persons, at this time, detained. No deputies were injured. This remains an active scene. We will have no further updates until Wednesday morning as work in this case continues. We are unaware of any suspects outstanding.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: More mail stolen; shoplift-turned-robbery
February 4, 2025 9:10 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

In West Seattle Crime Watch tonight:

MORE MAIL STOLEN: Heads-up sent by Mike this afternoon:

Just an fyi to the readers. We live in the (4800 block of) Beach Dr SW and were just informed by our mail carrier that our mail was stolen yesterday out of the mail truck.

SHOPLIFT-TURNED-ROBBERY: After SPD released a short summary of this Monday afternoon incident, without location information, we obtained the narrative. A 34-year-old man is in jail, under investigation for first-degree robbery after allegedly threatening to kill an employee at PCC West Seattle while stealing three beers and a bag of chips. Store employees told police the confrontation escalated after they tried to stop him from stealing; he pulled out a knife with a six-inch blade. Police. say he dropped the knife when they confronted him outside the store. They recovered the beer, chips, and an allegedly-also-stolen orange. The suspect remains held in lieu of $25,000 bail, according to the jail register.

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Chief Sealth IHS principal arrested for alleged DUI, district tells families; records show case involved West Seattle Bridge flipped-car crash
February 4, 2025 5:27 pm
|      25 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle police

Thanks to the multiple readers who have forwarded this announcement sent to Chief Sealth International High School families:

Dear Chief Sealth International families and staff,

We are writing to share some important personnel information with you.

At approximately 3 a.m. Sunday, Principal Ray Garcia-Morales was arrested by the Seattle Police Department for driving under the influence and reckless endangerment. He was immediately placed on administrative leave until further notice.

According to court records, no charges were filed, and the case has been closed. As this is a personnel issue, further details are confidential to protect privacy rights.

Assistant Principal Hope Perry will be stepping in to serve in his absence. Please feel free to reach out to her with school-related questions.

As other questions arise concerning this sensitive matter, please send them to publicaffairs@seattleschools.org.

Sincerely,

Bev Redmond
Chief of Staff
Seattle Public Schools

Looking at the case documents, the incident number matches the one in the West Seattle Bridge flipped-car crash we reported early Sunday.

(SDOT camera image, early Sunday)

We had updated the story yesterday when police confirmed the driver was arrested for DUI and reckless endangerment – and as we finished writing this story, SPD confirmed the 47-year-old Garcia-Morales was that driver. Jail records say he was booked into jail Sunday morning and released Monday evening. The case documents note that the City Attorney’s Office declined to file charges now but could still in the future.

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DOG PARK: Your next chance to comment on plans for West Seattle’s second off-leash area
February 4, 2025 4:00 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Pets | West Seattle news | West Seattle parks

(WSB photo at future off-leash-area site during October event)

As first reported last March, Seattle Parks has officially chosen an area on the south side of the West Seattle Stadium grounds to become the site of our area’s second dog park (officially, “off-leash area”). Today, Parks announced the next opportunity for community comment: An “open house” at the West Seattle Farmers’ Market on Sunday, February 23, 10 am-2 pm. That’ll be four months after the previous “engagement event” on the future park site, currently used as an overflow-parking area. Parks’ announcement says its “project team and design consultant will be available to answer questions, present concept design options, and gather valuable community feedback” to help shape the park’s final design. So far, they’re planning that it will include “fencing, seating for pet owners, and an environmentally friendly stormwater bioretention area with thoughtful plantings.” It’s one of two new off-leash areas budgeted together for $3.1 million from the Seattle Park District‘s second “funding cycle,” and construction is currently projected for next year.

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BIZNOTE: Eviction notice posted at West Seattle Brewing
February 4, 2025 2:11 pm
|      22 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

Thanks to Jeff for the tip. An eviction notice is posted at West Seattle Brewing (4415 Fauntleroy Way SW), warning that the King County Sheriff’s Office (which handles evictions) plans an eviction action there as soon as this Friday (February 7).

Court files show that this has been in the works since last August, with the first “unlawful detainer” notice served in September. The building’s owners allege that they are owed $35,000 in back rent and fees (with current monthly rent listed in documents as $5,329). The documents say West Seattle Brewing has been leasing the building since 2012, with lease renewals offered in 2017 and 2022 but the owners choosing to stay month to month. No one was there when we went by a short time ago to verify the tip about the notice, but the venue’s website suggests awareness of possible closure, as events last weekend are listed as “last Friday party” and “might be the last Saturday party.” The venue has most recently focused mostly on music. We have an email inquiry out to ask about future plans. They had just completed a remodel a year ago.

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UPDATE: Light repairs planned during next Highway 99 tunnel closure – which is now postponed
February 4, 2025 1:08 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Highway 99 tunnel | West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

1:08 PM: WSDOT has announced the next Highway 99 tunnel closure for this Friday night and Saturday morning, and listing what’ll be done while it’s closed:

Both directions of the State Route 99 tunnel in Seattle will close from 10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, to 6 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, for maintenance.

Washington State Department of Transportation will start closing northbound and southbound lanes at 9 p.m., with the tunnel fully closed by 10 p.m. Drivers going south on SR 99 will need to take the Harrison Street off-ramp, and northbound SR 99 drivers will need to take the Alaskan Way off-ramp. Also, the Sixth Avenue and Royal Brougham Way on-ramps will close at 9 p.m.

The closure will let crews do several important tasks, including:

-Fire suppression testing.
-Cleaning and marking drains.
-Fixing lights.

People traveling through downtown Seattle Friday night should use alternate routes

The topic of nonfunctioning lights on 99 by the tunnel came up in a recent comment discussion, so we’re checking with WSDOT on specifics.

3:41 PM: WSDOT hasn’t replied to our inquiry yet, but has just announced that this closure is postponed “to a later date.”

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Dine-out benefit, last chance for a choir test run, more for the rest of your West Seattle Tuesday
February 4, 2025 11:29 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

Better-late-than-never edition of the daily event list, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

(Saturday photo courtesy Admiral Neighborhood Association)

BLACK HISTORY ART EXHIBIT: As reported here Saturday, the Washington State Black Legacy Institute is welcoming visitors all month for its first major public exhibit. Hours today are 11 am-6 pm. (2656 42nd SW)

ROTARY CLUB OF WEST SEATTLE: Lunch meeting, noon at West Seattle Golf Course (4470 35th SW), with Anna Edwards of Seattle Collaborative Orchestra as guest speaker.

CHESS CLUB: Tuesdays 1:30-3 pm, at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon). All levels welcome. (Questions? Email conwell@conwelld.net.)

EAT PIZZA, HELP STUDENTS: Dine-out fundraiser for Alki Co-op Preschool, 4-9 pm at Mioposto (2139 California SW; WSB sponsor)

HOMEWORK HELP: Students can drop in for free help, 4-5:45 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).

DROP-IN WINE TASTING: 5-7 pm Tuesdays at Walter’s Wine Shop (4811 California SW) – $10 fee, $5 off with bottle purchases.

DEMONSTRATION FOR BLACK LIVES: Long-running weekly sign-waving demonstration on the corners at 16th/Holden. 5-6 pm. Signs available if you don’t bring your own.

WEST SEATTLE RUNNER TRACK RUN: 6:15 pm, meet at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) for WSR’s free weekly track run.

OPEN CHOIR REHEARSAL: Singers invited! The Boeing Employees Choir – open to non-employees too – has open rehearsal one last time tonight at the American Legion Post 160 hall (3618 SW Alaska), 6:30 pm.

MAKE POTTERY: Weekly 6:30-9 pm “girls’ night” at pottery studio The Clay Cauldron (5214 Delridge Way SW), sign up in advance to work on your project(s).

WEST SEATTLE TOASTMASTERS 832: Online gathering, 7 pm, to work on your communication and leadership skills. Our calendar listing explains how to get the link.

BINGO AT THE SKYLARK: Play – free! – Tuesday night Belle of the Balls Bingo hosted by Cookie Couture, 7 pm. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

TRIVIA X 6: Six trivia options for Tuesday night – 7 pm trivia with Amelia at Future Primitive‘s Beer Bar on Alki (2536 Alki SW) … The Beer Junction (4711 California SW) has Sporcle Pub Quiz with David at 7 and 8 pm … 7 pm at Ounces (3803 Delridge Way SW), free and hosted by Beat the Geek Trivia; 7 pm at Zeeks Pizza West Seattle (6459 California SW), hosted by Geeks Who Drink; 7:10 pm at Admiral Pub (2306 California SW) … and Trivia Tuesdays at Christos on Alki, 7:15 pm (2508 Alki SW).

BASKETBALL: One home game scheduled on the peninsula tonight – the West Seattle HS boys host Nathan Hale, 7:30 pm. (3000 California SW)

Hosting an event, class, performance, gathering, etc.? Tell your West Seattle neighbors via our event calendar – just email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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SEEN OFF WEST SEATTLE: Submarine and escorts – and steam
February 4, 2025 9:58 am
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   Seen at sea | West Seattle news

9:58 AM: Thanks for the tips and photo. A U.S. Navy submarine was in view off Alki Point a short time ago, with surface escorts. It’s not identified on the public tracking service we use, but a tugboat with it is tracking and continuing to head north.

10:05 AM: Another reader just sent the closer look we’ve added above. We have an inquiry out to USN Public Affairs to see if there’s anything they can tell us about the submarine.

1:12 PM: Lt. Zachary Anderson from Submarine Group 9 at Bangor didn’t identify the submarine, but regarding the attention-getting steam, he told us that “there are numerous routine submarine operations that may result in steam. The most likely is that the submarine was practicing using its diesel engine. When the boat does so steam and exhaust is released at the surface through its sail.”

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Memorial planned February 10 for Dr. Basil T. Papahronis, 1929-2025
February 4, 2025 9:26 am
|      5 COMMENTS
 |   Obituaries | West Seattle news

Family and friends will gather next Monday (February 10) to remember Dr. Basil Papahronis, and they’re sharing this remembrance with the community:

In Loving Memory of Dr. Basil Trifon Papahronis
November 10, 1929 – February 1, 2025

Dr. Basil Trifon Papahronis was born on November 10, 1929, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the eldest of three children of Tryphon Basil Papahronis from Vlaherna, Arcadia, Greece, and Efrosine Papahronis from Riono, Greece. He grew up alongside his beloved brothers, Chris and Harris, cherishing his Greek heritage with deep pride.

Basil’s early years were shaped by humble beginnings. From a young age, he learned the value of hard work, helping in his father’s restaurant from elementary school through high school. At just 17, he graduated high school and pursued his passion for learning at the University of Oklahoma, earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. His academic journey continued at the University of Kansas, where he completed his Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering. It was there that he met the love of his life, Maria Michael Economy. They married in August 1954, beginning a partnership filled with love and devotion.

Three years later, Basil earned his Doctorate in Chemical Engineering from Penn State University. He and Maria settled in St. Louis, Missouri, where they welcomed their two children, Frosene and Michael, into their lives.

Basil’s distinguished career led him to Fullerton, California, with Hunt Wesson Foods. He was a pioneer in food science, holding a patent in food oils and contributing to the development of iconic products such as microwave popcorn, Snack Pack pudding, and Hunt’s tomato sauce.

Beyond his professional achievements, Basil was deeply dedicated to his faith and community. He was a founding member of St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church in Anaheim, California, serving as Parish Council President, Treasurer, and Building Committee Member. Later, he continued his service at St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Los Angeles as Treasurer.

Basil’s passions extended beyond the laboratory and church. He loved the outdoors—backpacking and fishing with Boy Scouts and church youth groups, tending to his olive ranch in California, crafting wood furniture, and nurturing his vegetable gardens. Gardening was more than a hobby; it was a way of life. He delighted in sharing the fruits of his labor—avocados, macadamia nuts, lemons, zucchini, tomatoes—but none brought him more joy than his beloved olives, earning him the affectionate title of the “Olive King” in Seattle.

In 1999, Basil and Maria moved to Seattle, where they found immense joy living near their grandchildren, Mikala and Trifon. They quickly became cherished members of Seattle’s Greek community. Basil especially loved cooking for St. John the Almsgiver and remained active at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church, serving as Treasurer, cultivating church gardens, and selling his homemade jars of olives.

Basil will be remembered for his warm spirit, infectious humor, and simple yet profound gestures of kindness—like brightening someone’s day with daffodils from his garden, thoughtfully delivered to local bank tellers.

He is survived by his daughter, Frosene Sacco (John); his son, Michael Papahronis (Ingrid); his adored grandchildren, Mikala and Trifon; his brother, Harris (Alita); and many treasured nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Maria, and his brother, Chris.

A Trisagion and funeral will be held on February 10, 2025, at 12 pm at The Assumption Greek Orthodox Church – 1804 13th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to St. John the Almsgiver at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church.

Basil’s life was a testament to faith, family, and community. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)

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TRAFFIC CAMS, WEATHER, SCHOOLS, TRANSIT: Tuesday info
February 4, 2025 6:02 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

9:08 AM: No snow, so the NWS has ended the advisory early. Possible showers remain in the forecast.

Earlier:

6:02 AM: Good morning – it’s Tuesday, February 4, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

We’re still under a Winter Weather Advisory until 10 am. Otherwise, the forecast is for more showers, snow and otherwise, high in the upper 30s, low tonight in the 20s. Today’s sunrise/sunset – 7:31 am and 5:16 pm.

SCHOOL NOTES

No changes announced for Seattle Public Schools, but as noted last night, some other schools have late starts – see the list here. (Others? Please text or call us, 206-293-6302.)

TRANSIT

Metro buses – Regular schedule. If we do see serious snow, check metrowinter.com!

Water Taxi –  On a regular schedule today.

Washington State Ferries – M/V Suquamish is currently with M/V Cathlamet on the Triangle Route, with M/V Salish as the “bonus boat.”

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:

Spokane Street Viaduct – This view usually looks westward, with eastbound lanes at left and westbound lanes at right:

Low Bridge – Looking west:

1st Avenue South Bridge:

Delridge cameras: Besides the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.

MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.

See trouble on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!

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SPORTS: West Seattle HS vs. Chief Sealth IHS basketball, report #2: Boys’ varsity
February 4, 2025 3:50 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle news | WS & Sports

(WSB photos by Jason Grotelueschen)

This year’s night for crosstown-rivalry basketball ended with the boys’ varsity faceoff, as Chief Sealth International High School hosted West Seattle High School on Monday. This one was never close. The Wildcats got out to a 9-1 lead with five of those points contributed by #0, senior Alex Pierce:

Due to his antics among others, Sealth spent a fair amount of time at the foul-shot line, but were fairly cold from there in the early going. The first quarter ended with West Seattle head coach Fred Wilson‘s team up 21-9.

By halftime, they’d widened the lead to 40-17. Sealth tried to put the brakes on them but didn’t have much luck.

About the only bright spot for Sealth and head coach JaLyn Combs in this half was better luck at the foul line.

Final score was West Seattle 84, Chief Sealth 37. The Wildcats (7-12) host Nathan Hale tonight (Tuesday) at 7:30 pm; this was the last scheduled game for Sealth (3-16).

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SPORTS: West Seattle HS vs. Chief Sealth IHS basketball, report #1: Girls’ varsity
February 4, 2025 2:18 am
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS & Sports

(WSB photos by Jason Grotelueschen)

Monday night, Chief Sealth International High School hosted West Seattle High School for the annual crosstown-rivalry basketball games. First up were the girls-varsity teams, who kept things close in the first half.

The Wildcats were only one point up on the Seahawks, 19-18, when the halftime buzzer sounded, after a second quarter full of seesawing. That was the biggest thing Sealth fans had to cheer about all night.

Then WSHS head coach Darnell Taylor‘s young team – only one senior – came roaring out of the locker room and started piling up the points.

WSHS’s top scorer in the game, #10, sophomore Seneca Lucas, hit two buckets before the first minute of the second half was over. Then that lone senior, WSHS #20 Colby Timmons, sank a three. The third quarter was more than half over by the time Sealth finally got back on the board, a three from CSIHS’s leading scorer on the night, #44, senior Fahima Mohamed.

At the end of the third, Sealth head coach Mario Martinez‘s team was still at a single-digit deficit, 35-26.

but WSHS resumed piling on the points in the fourth quarter, with a hefty helping of foul shots.

The final score was West Seattle 58, Chief Sealth 29. Next up, the Wildcats (10-9) host Lakeside at 7:30 pm Wednesday, while the Seahawks (9-11) visit Rainier Beach at 7:30 pm Friday.

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WEST SEATTLE WEATHER: School changes for Tuesday
February 3, 2025 9:53 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools | West Seattle weather

We already have word of some school changes for Tuesday because of the potentially snowy weather, so we’ll start the list here and update it with whatever else we hear.

HOPE LUTHERAN SCHOOL: 2-hour late start Tuesday. No morning, ESC, or half-day preschool; school will start at 10:30 am.

VASHON ISLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT: 1.5-hour late start Tuesday; see district website pop-up for other effects.

KENNEDY HIGH SCHOOL: 2-hour late start (10 am); see district website pop-up for details.

SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE: Late start of 10 am for Tuesday. All classes and activities before 10 am are canceled.

.HOLY FAMILY: 2-hour late start

HIGHLINE PUBLIC SCHOOLS: 2 hours late.

Others? Please text or call 206-293-6302, or email westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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WEST SEATTLE SNOW? ‘Winter Weather Advisory’ in effect
February 3, 2025 6:22 pm
|      0 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle weather

The National Weather Service has finally issued an alert after all these days of forecasts with the potential for some snow. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect until 10 am tomorrow, with the NWS saying we could get up to two inches of snow. As always, we’ll cover the weather plus school and traffic info – 206-293-6302, voice or text, is the best way to let us know what’s happening where you’re at.

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Duwamish Tribe wins new chance at federal recognition
February 3, 2025 5:08 pm
|      11 COMMENTS
 |   Duwamish Tribe | West Seattle news

(WSB photo from May 2022, drumming/singing at event announcing lawsuit)

By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor

“We look at this as a victory.”

That’s how the Duwamish Tribal Council sees a federal court ruling giving them a new start in their decades-old fight for federal recognition. We talked this afternoon with Tribal Councilmember Yvonne Griffin to get context on the new ruling by U.S. District Court Judge Jamal Whitehead.

The ruling (first reported earlier today by The Seattle Times) is related to the lawsuit the Duwamish Tribe announced with an event at their West Seattle longhouse in May 2022 (WSB coverage here). In short, it orders the federal government to reconsider the tribe’s petition for recognition, and cancels the previous denial, Griffin explains.

The federal Bureau of Indian Affairs must re-evaluate the petition, and the tribe is allowed to submit new evidence. A key contention remains that the modern-day Duwamish Tribe is indeed the rightful successor to the historic Duwamish Tribe that signed the Point Elliott Treaty of 1855, despite other regional tribes including some descendants of Duwamish people. “New evidence will help us demonstrate (that),” Griffin says.

She also says it’s highly unusual for a tribe to be granted two “remand” orders – remanding their case to the department for reconsideration, which was ordered, then denied, in a previous case.

Recognition is vital because the Duwamish Tribe needs a government-to-government relationship with the federal government, Griffin says, and access to programs its members “deserve.” She adds that the fight isn’t over “treaty fishing rights” (though they are mentioned in the case, and two recognized tribes, the Muckleshoot and Tulalip, have taken the anti-recognition side) – they just want that recognition, which they briefly had a quarter century ago: This round of their fight dates back to recognition granted by the outgoing Clinton Administration at the turn of the millennium, then pulled back by the incoming Bush Administration. Another change in federal administrations could complicate things, since this case was filed against the Biden Administration, and will now require a review by the Trump Administration. Griffin says they haven’t spoke to anyone in the new federal government yet, so they’ll have to wait and see how it goes – and who does it. The court order says it must be “impartial.”

But this is only a “step in their journey” toward recognition – or, re-recognition, if you will. The ruling wasn’t “everything we asked for,” but: “We remain hopeful,” says Griffin, as they and their lawyers wait to see what happens next.

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DEVELOPMENT: See the design packet for Thursday’s review of 86-apartment 3010 SW Avalon Way
February 3, 2025 2:54 pm
|      34 COMMENTS
 |   Development | West Seattle housing | West Seattle news

(Rendering by Studio 19 Architects)

Three weeks ago, we told you about the upcoming Design Review hearing for an 86-apartment project at 3010 SW Avalon Way. At the time, the city hadn’t linked the “packet” for that hearing (though we found a draft version for our story), but now it’s available and you can see it here. The online review meeting is at 5 pm Thursday (February 6); the links for participating/viewing are on this page. As we noted last month, this will be the first time the city has convened the Southwest Design Review Board since December 2023. The project passed the first phase of Design Review in November 2021. P.S. If you’re wondering how close this is to the future light-rail station, that’s shown on a map in the packet.

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BIZNOTE FOLLOWUP: One more week for Admiral Bank of America
February 3, 2025 12:54 pm
|      23 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

That photo sent by Ray reminded us that we should remind you the Admiral Bank of America branch is closing as of one week from tomorrow. B of A announced the February 11 closure plan way back in July of last year. As we noted then, it’ll be the second Admiral Junction bank-branch closure in less than a year, after Wells Fargo shuttered there last March. That building has since sold, and the ex-bank space in it remains for lease; that’s the plan – as you can see from the signage – for this building too. As for B of A’s two remaining West Seattle branches – in The Junction and at Westwood Village – both are in the city building-permit system right now for various exterior work such as bollard upgrades and parking-lot maintenance.

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WEDNESDAY: Your chance to speak at City Council’s public hearing on proposed rezoning and other Comprehensive Plan changes
February 3, 2025 11:57 am
|      25 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle housing | West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

If you have something to say about the proposed city rezoning plan and other components of the Comprehensive Plan Update, Wednesday night brings the City Council‘s major public hearing about it. Various groups around the city have gone public with support and opposition, but this is the one night that councilmembers are convening to listen to as many individuals as want to speak. You can either go to City Hall to comment in person, or sign up to do it online; the agenda explains how. The hearing starts at 5 pm Wednesday (February 5); here’s the official notice, with a summary of what the city considers the plan’s toplines. You can find both the full proposed plan and its Environmental Impact Statement linked from this page.

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Free health presentation, WSHS-CSIHS basketball, more for your West Seattle Monday
February 3, 2025 9:58 am
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Moon and Venus on Saturday night, photographed by Kanit Cottrell)

Here’s what’s scheduled (and not) for the hours ahead, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar – we’ll update if we get word of any weather-related changes, but for now, here’s what we have:

BABY STORY TIME: Note that story time at Southwest Library is canceled this week.

‘EATING FOR YOUR MICROBIOME’ FREE WEBINAR: 12:30 pm online, free webinar presented by Neighborhood Naturopathic and Primary Care (WSB sponsor):

“Eating for Your Microbiome: How to Incorporate Prebiotics in Your Diet” with Dr. Megan Taylor
February 3, 2025 at 12:30 pm

Join Megan Taylor, ND, FABNG to discuss how to “Eat for your Microbiome.” Dr. Taylor will review some dietary strategies, with a focus on prebiotics, to support the growth of a diverse and rich gut microbiome.

Go here to register for the viewing link!

HOMEWORK HELP: Drop-in time for students to work with volunteer homework helpers at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), 4-5:45 pm.

BASKETBALL: This year’s games between Chief Sealth International HS and West Seattle HS are tonight at CSIHS (2600 SW Thistle) – 5:30 pm girls’ varsity, 7 pm boys’ varsity.

GET CRAFTY: 6-10 pm, Monday is “Crafting and Creativity Night” at The Missing Piece (9456 35th SW), info here.

D&D: Weekly D&D at 6:30 pm at Meeples Games (3727 California SW). All welcome, first-time players included!

LISTENING TO GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP: 6:30 pm with Tamara Kubacki, meeting at Mama Be Well Healing Studio (4034 California SW). “Grief groups are brave and safe spaces where bereaved people can share their stories and speak their loved one’s name without fear of getting advice, platitudes, or being shut out, no matter how long it’s been since their loved one’s passing.” – you can attend once or multiple times. Fee. Preregistration requested – our calendar listing explains how.

MONDAY NIGHT TRIVIA! Three places to play tonight! … 7 pm at The Good Society (California/Lander); 7 and 8 pm Sporcle Pub Quiz at Three 9 Lounge (4505 39th SW); 7:30 pm with QuizFix at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW)

MEDITATION IN FAUNTLEROY: Monday night meditating – free weekly Zen sitting/meditation in the chapel at Fauntleroy UCC (9140 California SW), 7 pm-8:30 pm.

MUSIC AT THE ALLEY: The Alley features music on Monday nights, jazz with The Westside Trio, 8 pm at The Alley (behind 4509 California SW), 21+, no cover.

MONDAY KARAOKE 9 pm Monday night is time for karaoke at Talarico’s Pizzeria (4718 California SW).

Thanks to everyone who contributes listings to our calendar – if you have something to add, please send the info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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New local jobs on WSB’s West Seattle Jobs Offered board
February 3, 2025 9:04 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle online

Every few weeks we remind you that if you’re looking for a new job – or new employee(s) – WSB has a West Seattle Jobs Offered section in the WSB Community Forums. This past week has brought new listings for local businesses, including our own, just posted. If you are hiring in West Seattle/White Center, it’s free to post – go here if you don’t already have a login. (When you post a job, be sure to include contact info so applicants can reach you directly.) No login needed if you’re a jobseeker browsing listings. Thanks for keeping it local!

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TRAFFIC, WEATHER, TRANSIT: February’s first weekday, with snow showers
February 3, 2025 6:01 am
|      8 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

9:16 AM: Big flakes in a snow shower right now!

Earlier:

6:01 AM: Good morning – it’s Monday, February 3, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Partly sunny, chance of more snow showers, high in the upper 30s, low tonight in the 20s. Today’s sunrise/sunset – 7:32 am and 5:14 pm.

SCHOOL NOTES

No changes announced for Seattle Public Schools, but as noted here last night, Highline and Vashon Island districts and Summit Atlas are all reported to be starting late. (Added 6:57 am) Kennedy HS is starting two hours late too. … (added) Texter reports YMCA Early Learning in West Seattle is opening at 9:30 am.

TRANSIT

Metro buses – Regular schedule. If we do see snow, check metrowinter.com!

Water Taxi –  Also on a regular schedule today.

Washington State Ferries – M/V Suquamish is currently with M/V Cathlamet on the Triangle Route, with M/V Salish as the “bonus boat.”

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:

Spokane Street Viaduct – This view usually looks westward, with eastbound lanes at left and westbound lanes at right:

Low Bridge – Looking west:

1st Avenue South Bridge:

Delridge cameras: Besides the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.

MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.

See trouble on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!

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WEST SEATTLE WEATHER: School changes for Monday (am and pm updates)
February 2, 2025 9:34 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools | West Seattle weather

The second wave of snow showers was even shorter than the first, but some nearby areas are experiencing – and/or expecting – weather wintry enough that they’ve announced school changes for Monday. Here’s what we have so far:

HIGHLINE PUBLIC SCHOOLS: The district that includes White Center and points south will start 2 hours late on Monday. Full details here.

VASHON ISLAND PUBLIC SCHOOLS: The district with hundreds of students from West Seattle will start 1 1/2 hours late on Monday.

SUMMIT ATLAS: We haven’t reached the school to confirm this yet but a parent says the charter middle/high school in Arbor Heights is starting 2 hours late on Monday.

(added) KENNEDY HS: Also starting 2 hours late.

(added) HOLY FAMILY BILINGUAL CATHOLIC SCHOOL: Closed today.

(added) SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE: Just received at 5 pm:

South Seattle College Alert: Due to winter weather, all classes and activities starting at 6 PM or later on Monday, February 3 are cancelled. We will also have a late start of 10 AM on Tuesday, February 4. All classes and activities prior to 10AM are cancelled.

Got a school change or closure? Please text or call us, 206-293-6302.

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UPDATE: Eastbound West Seattle Bridge reopens after closure because of person-in-crisis situation
February 2, 2025 6:59 pm
|      5 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:59 PM: Thanks for the tips. Avoid the eastbound high bridge for a while; there’s a major police response blocking lanes, reported to involve a person in crisis.

(Added: Cropped screenshot of 35th/Fauntleroy camera showing SPD blocking EB side)

7:14 PM: Police are telling dispatch they will be shutting down the entire eastbound bridge because traffic noise is preventing them from talking with the person they’re trying to help.

7:38 PM: Police just told dispatch they have brought the person safely out of danger and they’ll be taken to a hospital for evaluation. The bridge will be reopening.

7:56 PM: Eastbound bridge now fully reopened, officers told dispatch.

If you are, or someone you know is, contemplating self-harm, the 988 hotline is available 24/7.

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