West Seattle, Washington
25 Thursday
That’s Addie Killam of Highland Park, getting ready to ride her new hand-operated bike along Alki this morning. If Addie’s name sounds familiar but you just can’t quite place it – we first told you about her in this April report, when news came that she had become paralyzed after a freak surfing injury. Later, friends, family, neighbors, and WSB’ers worked to help fix up a house so she could come home to West Seattle this past June after weeks of rehab in a Colorado hospital. Now, Addie’s in training for a special Mike Utley Foundation fundraising ride coming up in about a month. Along the Alki bike path, we talked to her for a moment before her training ride this morning:
The Mike Utley Foundation raises money “to find a cure for paralysis”; Utley’s story is detailed here — he is a Seattle native who was a football star at Burien’s John F. Kennedy High School and then at WSU, followed by two years in the NFL, till the injury that paralyzed him in 1991. He underwent rehab at the same place in Craig, Colorado, where Addie spent time earlier this year. Now he lives in Wenatchee, where she’ll be riding her new bike in the 50-mile Dam2Dam on September 27:
Addie’s looking for sponsors for next month’s ride; to find out how to help, check out this post on the blog about her ongoing recovery – it’s got full details on what to do (you can also go directly to this page on the Mike Utley Foundation website – just make sure you fill in Addie Killam’s name).
That’s what West Seattle-residing mega-best-selling author Terry Brooks told a standing-room-only audience last night at Westwood Village Barnes and Noble: While he’s on tour to promote the newly released third book in his “Genesis of Shannara” series, the book he just finished writing – yesterday! – is the first addition in a decade-plus to his “Magic Kingdom” books (catalogued on his website as “Landover”). Last night’s event marked the third consecutive year he brought his book tour to “his neighborhood store,” as B&N-WV community-relations manager Robin Ennis-Cantwell called it. Ahead, listen to Brooks talk about what else he sees ahead, and about a book his playwright sister has just published:Read More
How’d he do in a crazy fashion challenge about car parts? Read on:Read More
Two events of note: Best-selling author Terry Brooks, who lives in West Seattle, is making his annual appearance at Barnes and Noble in Westwood Village tonight (here’s our preview; here’s our coverage of his appearances last year and the year before). 6:30 pm; he’s promoting the third book in his “Genesis of Shannara” series, “The Gypsy Morph.” Also tonight, it’s the weekly viewing party to root for Hotwire Coffee (WSB sponsor) barista Blayne in “Project Runway”; you’re welcome at Ginomai (42nd/Genesee), doors open 8 pm, show’s on the big screen at 9. And one more note from the WSB Events calendar: Community Harvest of Southwest Seattle offers a free canning class, all ages welcome, at the Senior Center, 6:30 pm.
Three people were murdered in West Seattle in 2007. Two of the three people arrested in those three cases are still awaiting trial — but if a hearing downtown tomorrow goes as expected, one will enter a plea rather than facing a jury. The suspect is 45-year-old Brian Sheridan Walsh; the victim was 44-year-old Harold Benjamin (“Benny”) Reside, a West Seattle native, developmentally disabled and using a wheelchair, viciously beaten to death in his Cal-Mor Circle apartment in April 2007. His sister and brother-in-law have been involved with the case against Benny’s alleged killer every step of the way since – and today, on the eve of the expected plea hearing, they sat down with WSB to tell their story:Read More
First, from Sharon:
About a week and a half ago I lost my drivers license and credit card while walking with a friend on Thistle. I thought it was lost for good. On top of losing my things, I knew my old address was listed on my driver’s license so it was unlikely I would get it back.
A very kind neighbor took the time to figure out my new address and knocked on my door the next morning and returned it to me. He told me his wife had found it jogging. I just wanted to say thanks to this couple!! They were so honest and truly went out of their way to help another person. THANKS so much, NEIGHBOR! It is good neighbors like you who can truly make this a great community in which to live.
Next one’s from Gillian – but first, you should know the backstory on this one, because it played out on the WSB Pets page, which is mostly seen only by those who lose and find pets. Gillian’s dog was one of more than a few West Seattle pets that bolted during the big storm yesterday; we got several notes about sightings, this morning and this afternoon, and posted them to the Pets page, as well as calling Gillian at one point to make sure she got the word — now Mandy is home, and Gillian sent this home:
Thanks so much to everyone for all of their help and concern. Without the great tips from each one of you, we would have been looking miles off course. West Seattle Bloggers are the best!
You are, indeed.
The storm lifted just in time to make sure this group didn’t need boats to navigate West Seattle streets on their way to a get-together tonight in Westwood where they sorted school supplies as part of Pencil Me in For Kids, for delivery later this week – with the start of school just days away! Left to right: In front, Jeanne Arvidson, and Sue Lindblom from Illusions Hair Design [WSB sponsor]; second row, Cathy Rouyer, Josh Sutton from West Seattle Family YMCA [WSB sponsor], Al Rouyer, Guthrie Sutton, Chris Rouyer; according to the PMiFK website, Sue brought the program to the Rotary Club of West Seattle eight years ago, and now it’s one of their major annual beneficiaries.
As the Democratic National Convention starts today in Denver, here’s the West Seattle lineup as we know it: For one, we know Mayor Nickels is there, because County Executive Ron Sims tweeted (posted to his Twitter feed) about it. Also, the 34th District Democrats had previously mentioned Chris Porter and Kimber McCreery were going (more on the 34th DDs’ home page), as well as a 34th DD’er who’s from Vashon, 18-year-old Nick Bordner. This is the culmination of a long process that started way back with those well-attended caucuses on February 9 and then the 34th District caucuses on April 5 (our in-person coverage stopped there); we’ll let you know if we find online diaries or blogs from any of the local attendees.
We told you about the big event the other night, but never did get around to asking for an electronic copy of the full recipient list. The P-I has put one up tonight, along with capsule descriptions of everyone’s achievements, and it’s pretty cool to read; check it out here. (Also includes one West Seattle recipient we missed in our report: Carol Madaio, who found a lost child on a busy WS street.) The event’s organizer, Cathy Wenderoth (who is a West Seattleite too!), kindly sent our official photo too; it’s now on our About page.
Still adhering to the “no spoilers on the home page” rule. Still going to the weekly “Project Runway” viewing parties at Ginomai, just around the corner from Blayne’s place-o-employment, Hotwire Coffee (WSB sponsor). So read on for a few lines on how Blayne did tonight and what his Hotwire boss Lora Lewis had to say about it:Read More
In case you lost track of this somewhere along the way — Blayne the barista from Hotwire Coffee (WSB sponsor) is still in the running as the latest season of “Project Runway” arrives at its sixth episode tonight; after designing for Brooke Shields last week and Olympic athletes the week before that, tonight’s challenge involves creating something for drag queens. Must-see TV, on the big screen at Ginomai (bring a dessert to share and see what other sweet treats turn up) on the southwest corner of 42nd/Genesee, doors open @ 8 pm, show’s on at 9.
That short video clip shows Cindi Barker, of Morgan Community Association and so many other endeavors, accepting a Seattle Police Department Citizen Appreciation Award from Police Chief Gil Kerlikowske tonight at City Hall (and toward the end of the clip, you see Mark Howard from the Emergency Preparedness Bureau). Cindi was honored for her tireless emergency-preparedness work, from the West Seattle-wide preparedness meeting in summer 2007, to the neighborhood-meeting-place events this spring/summer). Cindi was one of six West Seattleites (by our count) receiving the annual awards tonight, including your WSB co-publishers, and there were dozens more from around the city, including some with amazing stories:Read More
We told you last month about the passing of longtime West Seattle activist Nels Ekroth; today, we’ve gotten word from Jackie Dupras that Mr. Ekroth’s memorial is happening this week, 2 pm Thursday, at Alki Congregational Church (6115 SW Hinds) — you’re invited to bring photos and stories.
We apologize profusely for not having seen the announcement of a West Seattle “Thriller” practice tonight till moments ago, a few hours too late (Google Blog Search runs a bit slow sometimes). But if you want to be a “Thriller” too, looks like you’ll have more regional chances to join in. Not sure the end result can top our favorite recent version, as seen below in one of sixty skabillion clips available online:
Thirty years since 1978? “Baker Street” and “FM” and all that? Gulp. Anyway, 1978 is in the news here tonight because we have a link to pix and info from the “Tour de West Seattle,” a group bike ride today in honor of the West Seattle High School Class of ’78’s 30th reunion. ’78 grad Brian Dirks, the organizer, sent the link to his photo gallery, including the pic you see above, and this description:
Eight riders took to the streets of West Seattle Saturday for the 30-mile, “Tour de West Seattle” bicycle ride … Riders included ’78 grads Brian Dirks (ride coordinator), Cecelia Bellcross and Rosalie Aikin with husband Marc; Ron Badley and Tamara Crawford (who finished at other schools but attended earlier grades with the class); Bryan Clarke, son of ’78 grad Laura Christopherson; and Britt Tinglum of Seattle. The ride took in some of the best scenery of West Seattle, passing by most of the feeder elementary schools, James Madison Jr. High (or Middle School if you prefer), as well as Alki, Hamilton Viewpoint, Sunset Ave. Beach Drive, and many other points north and south.
You can see Brian’s full gallery here.
These events aren’t happening IN West Seattle, but they involve West Seattleites who have lent WSB a major helping hand at times when we needed it – plus, they’re interesting events in their own right – so we’re helping spread the word:
PHOTOGRAPHERS’ CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS: West Seattle lawyer Venkat Balasubramani is on a panel tackling this topic; WSB has been blessed with so many great photography contributions, we thought a few of you might be interested. Here’s more info including how to RSVP for the event.
GNOMEDEX 8.0: West Seattleite Stuart Maxwell, who provided us with technical consulting last year (including installation of software for the WSB Forums, the busiest neighborhood-news-site forums in the city), is helping coordinate Gnomedex, a tech conference next week at Bell Harbor on the downtown waterfront (a short distance away). Among the online-world luminaries who’ll be speaking, the guy behind the insanely popular ICanHasCheezburger.com. Check out the conference slate and registration information here.
Many people have posted tributes to Gregory Hampel among the comments below our Monday night report that he did not survive the 35th/Dawson accident in which a car hit him as he ran into the street to try to catch his dog. The 39-year-old West Seattleite is survived by his partner Ed Swaya and their daughter Vivian; late last night, we received word of two funds being set up for donations in his memory, including one at the school where he taught:
Donations in honor of Gregory Hampel can be made to The Seabury School, where they are setting up a scholarship in his name.
Or, given the family’s commitment to the education of their daughter, donations are being accepted at any US Bank for the education fund for Vivian Swaya.
DONATIONS BY MAIL:
Deposit into “Vivian Swaya’s Account” (educational fund)
US Bank
1436 S. 312th St
Federal Way, WA 98003DONATIONS IN PERSON:
Go into any branch of US Bank.
No account number needed; simply use Vivian Swaya’s name.Sorry, no online donation available
The US Bank branch in West Seattle is at the northwest corner of 42nd/Edmunds (map). 10:09 AM UPDATE: A comment on our previous report includes this information on a service for Mr. Hampel today:
Gregory’s Memorial Service:
Thursday August 14
University Lutheran Church
1604 NE 50thviewing 10-noon
service following
This morning we welcome the newest WSB sponsor, Alki Kid’s Place, which is getting ready for its first season offering after-school activities in West Seattle, and is already up and running with summer programs that started in late June. Director Cheryl Snyder says Alki Kid’s Place is for children ages 4-14: “We offer a safe, nurturing environment along with a dedicated, caring staff. Our program was created to meet the growing needs within the community for quality, affordable after-school care for children. We offer a variety of activities including arts & crafts, movies, games, music, exercise, tae kwon do, along with quiet time for homework, reading, and relaxing as well as tutoring.” After-school programs start on September 3rd, and will be available 2:30 pm-6:30 pm. Cheryl says openings are now available — registrations are being accepted for fall — and they have daily rates as well as weekly rates, $15/day or $70/week. Alki Kid’s Place is at 6115 SW Hinds (map). To register or get more information, call 206-938-0145. Welcome to Alki Kid’s Place; all our current sponsors are listed on the updated WSB Advertise page, which also is the starting point for anyone interested in joining them (every WSB ad is seen more than 16,000 times a day, with an exceptionally low price per view!).
We’re still in the “no spoilers on the home page” mode for those who recorded the show but haven’t watched it yet, so click ahead to see how Blayne did tonight, and what his Hotwire Coffee (WSB sponsor) boss has to say about it:Read More
Kelly Guenther sends this photo from what he describes as the annual Junction Merchants’ Boat Cruise, apparently docked in Bremerton. We recognize some well-known faces … how ’bout you?
From the WSB Forums: Someone who’s been participating in WSB comments for almost as long as the site’s been around – then the forums when they opened – and e-mail news tips too — is now making a little news himself. Mike, aka “miws,” revealed in this forum post that he’s being treated for a rare form of leukemia. It’s very treatable, he explains, but quite a shock – he went into the hospital with what he thought was severe asthma, and instead doctors discovered “hairy cell leukemia.” He’s hoping to be home in his West Seattle apartment soon. We asked if there’s anything he needs – Mike says the “good thoughts” are it – he’s got several other great support networks that already sprang into action. Mike’s positive attitude (and lively WS memories) have enhanced many a comment/forum thread, so we’re sending profuse “good thoughts” from here and hoping you’ll do the same.
Good thing they’re not gathering at the school — since as we first reported last week, the renovations are ramping up, and the campus is closed for two years. But they’re partying just the same – all former Chief Sealth High School students from the ’60s and ’70s are invited to a gathering at West Seattle Golf Course tonight. The Class of ’73 is sponsoring it in honor of its 35th anniversary, but they want to share memories with those who came before and after. They describe it as “a free, casual event with a no-host bar and food available from the Cafe. Get-together starts at 5 pm, with music of the era until 10:30. Bring any Sealth yearbooks and memories along. No RSVP needed!”
Team WSB watched tonight’s “Project Runway“ episode with a spirited crowd – biggest since the premiere night – at Ginomai, where the air conditioning was heavenly and so was the potluck dessert selection – read on to see how Blayne did and what his Hotwire Coffee (WSB sponsor) boss Lora Lewis says about it:Read More
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