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West Seattle wildlife: Chicken-coveting Pigeon Point coyote
October 22, 2011 11:50 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   Coyotes | Pigeon Point | West Seattle news | Wildlife

The Pigeon Point Neighborhood Council e-mail list has been abuzz about that coyote, photographed last Tuesday afternoon “on Genesee and 20th Ave SW (map), heading toward the headwaters of Puget Creek in the greenbelt adjacent to Pathfinder K-8,” according to Joni. We requested the photo after reading her account of the coyote trying to get into the chicken enclosure at her home, which is near the school. Joni says somebody tried to shoo the coyote away but it “didn’t even blink … and stuck around long enough” to be photographed. She has since raised the fence on the chicken enclosure, and reminded neighbors on the list, “Please don’t leave food out for animals, and keep your pets safe!” She also shared the link that we include in most coyote reports – “living with coyotes” info from the state – including what to do when you see one.

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Update: Woman hit by bus in South Delridge, but not seriously hurt
October 22, 2011 8:41 pm
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   Delridge | West Seattle news | WS breaking news

8:41 PM: Avoid 15th/Delridge/Roxbury for a while – police and fire are responding to the scene of some kind of accident. It was originally reported as “a woman trapped under a bus” but first units on the scene corrected that to say no one is trapped. However, police are closing off the area while they investigate.

9:02 PM UPDATE: WSB contributor Deanie Schwarz is at the scene. She says the woman is believed to have been hit by the bus but is not believed to have major injuries. Her top photo shows investigators looking under the bus after the woman had already been moved for medical attention.

9:17 PM UPDATE: Deanie says the bus has been towed and the roads have reopened. (This was in the intersection by the former Game Stop on the corner with the Roxbury Walgreens.)

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Drum and/or sing tomorrow to call Fauntleroy salmon home
October 22, 2011 7:24 pm
|    Comments Off on Drum and/or sing tomorrow to call Fauntleroy salmon home
 |   Fauntleroy | How to help | West Seattle news | Wildlife

salmoncrowd.jpg

(WSB photo from 2008 calling-the-salmon-home event)
It is almost time for Fauntleroy Creek‘s volunteer salmon-watchers to start their annual lookout for coho spawners returning home. But first, it’s a tradition for people of all ages to gather to drum and sing, to call the salmon home. You are welcome to join – drums not required, but if you have one, or something makeshift, bring it! – at 5 pm tomorrow, at the Fauntleroy Creek overlook, across the street (and up the embankment) from the ferry terminal (here’s a map). Find more info – as well as details on how to volunteer for salmon-watching next month – at fauntleroy.net.

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Ready for snow? Mountain to Sound’s ski swap @ VFW Hall
October 22, 2011 3:03 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Triangle | West Seattle news | WS & Sports

Still a little too warm for snow, but not too warm to be ready for ski season as soon as it arrives – considering that November is just a week and a half away. The first day of Mountain to Sound Outfitters‘ second annual Ski Swap is under way at the VFW Hall across the street (36th/Alaska in The Triangle). Boards, boots, and other gear, too:

And if you need your gear tuned up – that’s what Cody and Erin Wolford from Lokey Sports were up to while we were there:

The swap continues till 6 tonight. If you don’t see this before then – no worries – it’s happening 10 am-3 pm tomorrow, too.

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Update: Crash on Delridge ramp from West Seattle Bridge
October 22, 2011 12:47 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS breaking news

12:47 PM: Drivers headed west on the West Seattle Bridge can’t use the Delridge exit right now – it’s blocked off because of a crash. The call went out as “automobile rescue”; our crew at the scene says it’s on the curve as the ramp comes down to Delridge, lots of fire/rescue crews. No word yet on whether anyone’s been hurt.

12:57 PM UPDATE: One person taken to Harborview Medical Center, according to the incident commander. And the ramp is open again. This appears to have been a one-vehicle crash, but no details on whether it’s blamed on the wet weather or some other factor.

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Thousands take a last look at southern stretch of The Viaduct
October 22, 2011 10:54 am
|      33 COMMENTS
 |   Alaskan Way Viaduct | West Seattle news

(More photos/video added Sunday night)

Thinking about going over to walk on The Viaduct before its southern mile goes away forever? (Remember, the demolition involves “only” the southern mile, approximately Holgate to King Street – the central section won’t come down until the tunnel’s done, no earlier than end of 2015.) Among those already up there is traffic ace Tracy Taylor from our “Viadoom” coverage partners at KING 5 News, and she’s sending back a stream of photos you can check out here – including the top pic. Also via Twitter, she says it’s not too crowded, and the parking situation is pretty good. It’s open for walking till 12:30 pm – details here – then from 1-2 pm, politicians celebrate in their own way, with the roster including King County Executive (and West Seattleite) Dow Constantine. And if you can’t get there … WSDOT has time-lapse demolition images online.

ADDED 11:38 AM: More of the photos others are sharing – Cara just sent a few, including this:

And from Jodi, her kids Robbie and Cameron:

A different angle. (Every time we walked The Viaduct for Race for the Cure, we thought it was cool to peer down through the “joints,” too!)

ADDED 1:08 PM: Frank shared this photo of Oliver and Maya, with their souvenir:

ADDED 1:56 PM: The Rat City Rollergirls, you’ll recall – who have several West Seattleites in their ranks – co-won the contest for a semi-“private” half-hour on The Viaduct. WSDOT tweeted this photo:

Everybody seems to have their own reason for taking one last look. Viaduct project executive Matt Preedy headed up with his kids Aidan, 10, and Rowan, 6:

And then, once upon the deck, how do you celebrate when a project hits a milestone six months ahead of its original schedule?

Thanks to Fiona Preedy for those photos.

ADDED 7:33 PM: Our partners at the Seattle Times published this video of the Seattle Cossacks motorcycle-stunt team, the other “co-winners” of the Viaduct-access contest:

9:56 PM UPDATE: Also from the Times, here’s today’s wrapup from transportation reporter Mike Lindblom, who was reporting live via Twitter during today’s event. WSDOT estimated the number of Viaduct visitors at 3,200. Meantime, more photos from WSB’ers:

That’s from Rob A. Johnston of Walkabout Wolf Photography. And Renee sent this photo of son Oliver with an explanatory sign:

ADDED SUNDAY NIGHT: Cathy Doser of Renton shared these two views, in a different vein of VIaduct nostalgia – first one from 1989 (note the Kingdome!), second one more recent:

And on Sunday, Liesbet T was one of the last people to leave:

WSDOT shared this photo of a Viaduct visitor who traveled in style:

Still adding photos – do YOU have one to share?

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West Seattle Saturday: First Viaductless weekend
October 22, 2011 9:27 am
|    Comments Off on West Seattle Saturday: First Viaductless weekend
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

No Viaduct? No problem! That’s the latest “live” look at the bridge – but there are lots of things to do without leaving the peninsula. (Although if you really must leave, you can go walk on the viaduct 9:30 am-12:30 pm – details here.) From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

DECORATE A PUMPKIN: PCC Natural Markets-West Seattle (WSB sponsor) has a pumpkin decorating party for kids, drop by 9:30-12:30! (California/Stevens)

THINK SNOW! SKI SWAP: Ski/snowboard swap presented by Mountain to Sound Outfitters at the VFW Hall across the street (36th/Alaska), 10 am-6 pm.

WOMEN’S CAR CARE SEMINAR: 10 am at Tom’s Automotive Service (WSB sponsor), 3615 SW Oregon (call 206-937-1144 to check if there’s space).

FAMILY MATTERS: A week of “Family Matters” presentations/events at Fauntleroy UCC Church begins. Full lineup here; today, community-resources fair, 10 am-2 pm (9140 California SW).

EUROPAKIDS PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: EuropaKids International Preschool (WSB sponsor) is celebrating its 6th year in West Seattle with a fall open house at 10:30 am today at Southwest Community Center to introduce its new Mandarin Chinese program.

TODAY’S FOOD TRUCKS: Food trucks at Highland Park Improvement Club (12th/Holden), 11 am. Lumpia World, I Want Curry Now, Charlie’s Buns … Marination Mobile sends word that during its regular 35th/Graham visit 11 am-2 pm, “Just a heads up that your friendly neighborhood Big Blue taco truck will start selling jars of Nunya Sauce and Pickles in a Pepper today. Jars are $8 and come with a free slider or taco.” … And the BUNS burger truck is scheduled to debut at the new California/Edmunds “pod” for dinnertime.

HALLOWEEN GALA: At Salty’s on Alki at 11:30 am, it’s the Southwest Seattle Historical Society Log House Museum 2011 Annual Halloween Gala. See Facebook Event page here.

ADOPT A CAT: West Seattle’s only animal shelter, Kitty Harbor (3422 Harbor Ave SW), is open noon-6 pm.

LEND A HAND: Work party at Nickelsville to help spread donated gravel, volunteers needed 1-3 pm, details here including location.

FREE WORKSHOP: Free remodeling/building workshop at Ventana Construction (WSB sponsor), 2 pm, info here

VISIT THE TOOL LIBRARY: Saturday hours at the West Seattle Tool Library, on the east side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, are now through 2 pm.

OLG HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL: Our Lady of Guadalupe annual Halloween Carnival, 4-8 pm, parish hall. Kids, wear costumes! Lots of activities and fun.

SCARY DUWAMISH STORIES: Told by Native Storyteller Johnny Moses, 6 pm – 7:30 pm. Duwamish Longhouse, 4705 W Marginal Way SW. Local Native American tales of witches and soul loss. $10 general. $5 seniors/students. $3 frybread. Doors open at 5 pm. Children welcome, but parents should use their best judgment. Tales will be scary & gory. Wear your costume if you dare. Free parking. Free admission for enrolled Duwamish members.

FILM FESTIVAL FINALE: Seattle Lesbian and Gay Film Festival (WSB sponsor)’s third of three days with screenings at the Admiral Theater in West Seattle – schedule here; first film at 6 pm.

EARLY HALLOWEEN, WITH YOUR DOG! Muttster Mash, 7-10 pm, pet costume contest and more at Muttley Crew Cuts, including an auction. Benefits Animal Aid and Rescue Foundation.

THEATER IN HIGHLAND PARK: Highland Park Improvement Club is hosting an evening of theater tonight at 7pm (pay what you can). It is a one-night-only production by local theater company Playworks of Arthur Miller’s “I Can’t Remember Anything.”

‘EVIL DEAD’: ArtsWest‘s gory, campy production continues its run tonight, 7:30 pm, tickets available online.

WINTERNACHT: The Cabiri’s annual Ghost Game production, at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center – including dessert! Tickets at brownpapertickets.com/event/188904

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Huling Bowl 2011, report #2: More than football
October 22, 2011 8:49 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools | WS & Sports

Last night, we published the score. But the annual Huling Bowl football faceoff between West Seattle’s two biggest high schools is more than a game. It’s pageantry. Above, from atop a ladder, Chief Sealth International High School‘s Marcus Pimpleton directs the combined bands. As seen/heard in video (watch for the baton-tossing!):

For West Seattle High School‘s victorious football team – 53-6 – it was also Senior Night:

Stars of the game included two WSHS seniors, Nikko Pablo Emm with most of the scoring, including a 61-yard touchdown run, and receiver George Edwards picking off three Sealth passes, returning one for – that same number! – 61 yards. Sealth QB Maxwell Sharver ran the ball in for the Seahawks’ lone touchdown.

When the Wildcats came off the field at game’s end, they got a rockstar reception, as this video shows, including the traditional trophy-hoisting:

Principals Ruth Medsker of WSHS and Chris Kinsey of Sealth took a moment to pose with the trophy.

The Westside players eventually did too:

All of this followed spirited pre-game activities – we caught up with the WSHS cheer squad, weatherproofing and all:

They, and the team, are off to postseason play.

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Got a few spare hours? Be a Girls On The Run ‘Running Buddy’
October 22, 2011 7:58 am
|    Comments Off on Got a few spare hours? Be a Girls On The Run ‘Running Buddy’
 |   How to help | West Seattle news | WS & Sports

(GOTR promotional video explaining what “Running Buddies” are all about)
Here’s another situation in which a little bit of your time can make a big difference for local kids: Girls On The Run needs more women to volunteer as “Running Buddies” to mentor the third-through-fifth graders who run their first race as part of the program. We got the word from one of the West Seattle GOTR volunteers, Robbie, who coaches a group at Alki Elementary; she says GOTR is running low on volunteers this year as the sign-up deadline approaches, and is getting out the word in hopes of changing that. “It is a pretty small commitment of time,” says Robbie. “We need them for one practice 5K and then at the race at Seward Park, about 6 hours total.” That race is the 5K in December at Seward Park that’s the culmination of this season – it’s the first-ever 5K for the participating girls. Teen “running buddies” are welcome as well as adults, as long as you’ll be 16 years old by November 14th. Full details on this flyer – and you can sign up through a link you’ll find on this page along with more info on the program.

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‘Family Matters’ workshop in Fauntleroy to shed light on suicide
October 22, 2011 1:11 am
|      7 COMMENTS
 |   Fauntleroy | Health | West Seattle news

EDITOR’S NOTE: We have had this story in queue for publication since October 11th. We mention that because, less than 24 hours after we received it from Judy, a young man killed himself at Fauntleroy’s Cove Park; mourners gathered there for a tribute last weekend, and their loss is yet another reminder this topic must stop being taboo.

(A young walker in Seattle’s “Out of the Darkness” walk in September. Photo courtesy Danna McGill)
By Judy Pickens
Special to West Seattle Blog

One of the most untalked-about topics scheduled to be talked about during “Family Matters” week at Fauntleroy Church – which begins today – is suicide. “Understanding Suicide,” a workshop on prevention and coping, is scheduled for 5 PM Sunday.

It will be led by Danna McGill, who chairs the state chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). She knows about suicide as both organizer and survivor. Joining her will be two others with somewhat different perspectives on suicide loss.

When Danna’s best friend died by suicide a couple of years ago, she was stunned. If only she had had a little education, she reasoned, she would have seen it coming. She decided to participate in an AFSP “Out of the Darkness” fund-raising walk in Seattle and immediately knew she had found her tribe.

Read More

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Viaduct closure, night 1: South-end demolition begins
October 21, 2011 10:33 pm
|      25 COMMENTS
 |   Alaskan Way Viaduct | West Seattle news

West Seattleite Pete Spalding shared these first two photos, as demolition work started tonight on the south end of the Alaskan Way Viaduct, seen from the Silver Cloud Hotel in the stadium zone. He was at a by-invitation viewing event that he says was attended by many project managers for the state and city, as well as members of the citizens advisory group on which he’s been a WS representative for the past few years. Here’s a wider view:

ADDED 11:21 PM: As promised, video (shot by WSB contributor Katie Meyer):

Minutes before the demolition work began, WSDOT deputy program administrator Matt Preedy, a West Seattleite, talked about the momentous occasion:

Another West Seattleite, transportation reporter Mike Lindblom from the Seattle Times (WSB partner), details exactly what was happening in tonight’s early going – here’s his story. Meantime – WSDOT has time-lapse photography on display here; and you can watch the demolition work from the Viaduct itself 9:30-12:30 tomorrow.

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Update: WSHS-Sealth matchups, including Huling Bowl
October 21, 2011 7:18 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools | WS & Sports

BIg sports night for principals Ruth Medsker of West Seattle High School and Chris Kinsey of Chief Sealth International High School – they’re watching their varsity football teams in the Huling Bowl at West Seattle Stadium, while their volleyball teams are facing off in the division-championship tiebreaker at Holy Names on Capitol Hill. For updates on both games, check our @wsblive Twitter feed (see it on the web, here). More later!

10:22 PM UPDATE: As commenters have already pointed out, West Seattle took the volleyball match over Sealth, in five sets. West Seattle also won the football game, 53-6. Photos and video to come in a separate story!

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Followup: Guilty plea for ‘prolific’ burglar who victimized West Seattle senior citizens
October 21, 2011 5:09 pm
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

The man charged last spring in a string of burglaries, with victims including residents at the Arrowhead Gardens retirement complex in southeastern West Seattle, pleaded guilty today to 16 charges. We reported in April on the case of 41-year-old John Novotny, who stole a variety of items all the way down to Christmas ornaments. In addition to burglary charges, he pleaded guilty to forgery, identity theft, and “taking a motor vehicle.” The King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office is seeking an “exceptional” 10-year sentence for Novotny when he is sentenced on December 9th (that’s almost double the low end of the “standard range”).

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West Seattle traffic alert: Eastbound WS Bridge backup
October 21, 2011 4:18 pm
|    Comments Off on West Seattle traffic alert: Eastbound WS Bridge backup
 |   West Seattle news

Right now the eastbound bridge looks more like morning-commute traffic than afternoon (non)traffic. Paul sent word there’s a 2-car crash at the southbound I-5 offramp; it’s not on the 911 log, but that likely just means no one was hurt. So if you have to head eastbound – try another way, or wait a while. The image above is the latest from the city’s bridge-cam, pointed east.

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Viaduct-closure countdown: Friday afternoon notes
October 21, 2011 2:24 pm
|      10 COMMENTS
 |   Alaskan Way Viaduct | Transportation | West Seattle news

And now some quick updates, as the 7:30 pm shutdown, and start of south-end demolition, approach…

(Note: That’s the latest image from the NORTH end, not the end that’s coming down)
AND THE WINNERS ARE ... WSDOT just announced that the Rat City Rollergirls and motorcycle stunt team Seattle Cossacks have won the contest to do something unusual with 30 minutes alone on the downtown section of The Viaduct tomorrow (that’s NOT the section being demolished). Meantime, everyone’s invited to the commemorative walk 9:30 am-12:30 pm Saturday, accessing The Viaduct from the construction area north of 1051 First Avenue South.

EXTRA WATER TAXI RUN TOMORROW NIGHT: For the big WSU game on Saturday, the West Seattle Water Taxi is adding an 11 pm run from downtown to WS (and then heading back from Seacrest to downtown at 11:10 pm before docking for the night).

NO FLASHING ‘VIADUCT CLOSED’ SIGNS: SDOT spokesperson Rick Sheridan just sent word of this:

SDOT will not be activating the flashing beacons on the “Alaskan Way Viaduct Closed – When Flashing” signs during the upcoming nine-day closure.

These beacons are battery powered and designed for short term use. A closure of this length would deplete the batteries after several days and, if the lights were not functioning, give the impression the viaduct was open.

We have both permanent and temporary dynamic message signs positioned near these beacon sites. Those dynamic reader boards will have accurate info about the viaduct’s status..

PORT TO PARTIALLY OPEN NEW TRAIN-TRACKS BYPASS: If you drive the West Seattle Bridge, you’ve seen this construction project under way off to the south side of the 99 exit for months. Just in time for the Viaduct closure, it’s being opened partway, says Port of Seattle spokesperson Charla Skaggs:

The Port of Seattle will open the south-bound portion of the East Marginal Way Grade Separation Project to ease congestion during the nine-day closure of the Alaskan Way Viaduct. This new connection will provide access to southbound SR-99 from both southbound East Marginal Way and eastbound lower Spokane Street. The attached graphic provides a visual aid for how the grade separation will facilitate smoother traffic flow.

In addition, a traffic signal has been installed at the intersection of lower Spokane Street and East Marginal Way.

WHERE POLICE WILL BE: Speaking of traffic signals – during the live chat we co-hosted with KING 5 traffic reporter Tracy Taylor earlier this afternoon (you can read the archived chat here), she answered a question about which intersections police planned to staff with officers, at least for starters:

Am Commute 6a-10a
4th and Spokane
1st and Spokane
1st and Atlantic
Denny and Queen Anne
99 and Denny
Atlantic and Alaskan way

Pm Commute 3p-7p
Hanford and east marginal
Atlantic and Alaskan
Alaskan and Yesler
Alaskan and Marion
5th and spring

The city promises that if new trouble spots emerge during the weekdays, they’ll move resources.

BICYCLE RIDE: Just announced by Stu Hennessey of Alki Bike and Board – he’s leading a ride on Monday, designed for those who are NOT regular bicycle commuters:

This ride is provided to assist new riders and riders that have not ridden to downtown from West Seattle recently. Safety in numbers and route selection. Hopefully this experience will convince more commuters that the bicycle always is the healthier and more convenient choice. Ride meets at Alki Bike and Board 2606 California Ave. S.W. in the Admiral District at 7 am and will go into Pioneer Square. Information and route help to further destinations will be available. More information 206 938 3322

For all our previous Via-closure (and other matters Viaduct) coverage, here’s the archive.

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From White Center Now: Dozens arrested in big WC raids
October 21, 2011 12:22 pm
|      17 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news | White Center

(Added 12:53 pm: Video of some of the seized drugs, guns)
Our partner site White Center Now had first word yesterday of the big raids focused on two WC sites described as “hubs” for crime – and contributor Deanie Schwarz is covering the new information today, with federal, state, county, and other authorities briefing the media at Steve Cox Memorial Park.

(Photo by Courtney Blethen Riffkin, SEATTLE TIMES/Republished with permission)
Here’s the latest, with word of dozens of people arrested, dozens of guns seized, and confiscated drugs. We’ll be adding more details there throughout the afternoon.

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Happening now: Live Viaduct-closure chat with KING 5, WSB
October 21, 2011 10:57 am
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   Alaskan Way Viaduct | West Seattle news

(EDITOR’S NOTE: Though the chat ended just after noon, it’s archived as-it-happened, below)

Right now, WSB and KING 5 invite you to this live online chat about the Viaduct closure that starts at 7:30 pm tonight and is scheduled to continue till 5 am Monday. Got a last-minute question? KING 5’s Tracy Taylor and your WSB editor here (Tracy Record) are both on hand to try to help. Join in! P.S. You have to click the “play” button to see the chat – and to see how to join in.

12:31 PM NOTE: Thanks to everyone who participated (we recognized some WSB’ers)! Now we’ll look ahead to tonight, the weekend, and Monday … with continuous coverage, am and pm commutes, plus traffic bulletins whenever something happens that you need to know about. If it’s easier for you to access Facebook/Twitter when you’re out and about, be sure you’re following us there too – “like” the WSB Facebook page by going here, follow WSB on Twitter here.

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West Seattle Friday: Early Halloween festivities, and more
October 21, 2011 10:44 am
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

Yes, there’s more happening than Viadoom/Viacrunch/Viaclosure/etc. That starts at 7:30 tonight. But here’s what else is up, from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

VIADUCT CHAT: For closure coverage, we’re teaming up with our friends at KING 5 to add a little extra oomph (hey, they have a chopper, we don’t). First collaboration: 11 am today, live online chat led by KING’s traffic reporter Tracy Taylor, with your editor here assisting. We should have the chat box here on WSB once it starts, but if we don’t, you’ll definitely be able to participate here.

WALK-A-THON: Lafayette Elementary‘s annual fundraiser is happening today throughout the school day, and you’re welcome to drop by the (newly renovated!) playground to show your support.

TAKE A HIKE! Monthly free guided eco-hike with the Nature Consortium, 1 pm, 14th/Holly trailhead, RSVP to nancy@naturec.org

SKI/SNOWBOARD SWAP – DROPOFF DAY: Ski/snowboard swap this weekend at Mountain to Sound Outfitters, 4-7 pm today, full details here.

FALL FESTIVAL: Free event tonight at High Point Community Center (6920 34th Ave SW), 6-8 pm. Ages 3 and older. Everyone in the family is invited to join in on an evening of fun! Kids will enjoy a variety of “frightfully fun” skill challenging games and activities. This event is created in a way that provides thrills without unnecessary fright for walking toddlers up to eleven years old. If able, we request a donation of a non-perishable food item to be donated to the West Seattle Food Bank.

HALOWEEN CARNIVAL: Free event at Delridge Community Center (4501 Delridge Way SW), Ages 12 and under. Get dressed up and join us for evening of family fun featuring games and sweet treats. The Balloon Buffoon will be in attendance, twisting his award-winning balloon animals. 6-8 pm.

MORE EARLY HALLOWEEN FUN: A Spooky Good Time at the West Seattle Family YMCA, 4515 36th Ave. SW, 6:30-8 pm.A free, exciting evening with the Y’s own Mad Scientist, who will delight the whole family with his spooky experiments! There will be kid-friendly, hands-on activities for all ages.

FILM FESTIVAL: Seattle Lesbian and Gay Film Festival (WSB sponsor)’s second of three days with screenings at the Admiral Theater in West Seattle – schedule here; first film at 6 pm.

WINE TASTING: Weekly wine tasting at bin 41 – from 6-7:30 pm: Pinot Noir is the one varietal that fascinates so many winemakers around the globe. We are always fascinated how the varietal can taste so different from different regions. This tasting will feature an array of Pinot Noir from around the world.

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL: High school football – West Seattle HS hosts Chief Sealth (WS Stadium), 7 pm in the Huling Bowl, with pre- and during-game festivities (here’s our earlier preview) – bring a WS Food Bank donation! Also tonight, Seattle Lutheran vs. Chief Leschi, 7:30 pm at Southwest Athletic Complex in WS

OPENING NIGHT FOR WINTERNACHT: Tonight at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. Cabiri’s fifth-annual Ghost Game production. More details in our preview from earlier this week.

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‘Restructuring’ Metro: Finally time to talk about better routes
October 21, 2011 9:16 am
|      9 COMMENTS
 |   Transportation | West Seattle news

Now that transit is REALLY top-of-mind, at least for a week and a half … Have an idea about a better way for Metro to serve West Seattle? Maybe the long-desired east-west improvements? Metro has long been promising that this fall would bring official public discussions about how to “restructure” its route system once RapidRide starts next year … and the dates for those discussions are finally set, as first announced at this week’s Morgan Community Association meeting. If you have something to say about improving Metro’s routes in West Seattle, plan to be at Chief Sealth International High School on Wednesday, November 9th and/or Madison Middle School on Thursday, November 17th, both 6:30-8:30 pm meetings. You will be able to comment online too – keep an eye on the Metro “Have a Say” site.

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Viarace! Constantine, McDermott, Rasmussen head downtown
October 21, 2011 8:26 am
|      30 COMMENTS
 |   Alaskan Way Viaduct | West Seattle news

King County Councilmember Joe McDermott‘s shuttle to the West Seattle Water Taxi dock finally rolled up to its Junction stop around 7:57 am – and with that, he was the last to head out on what at least one Twitter account dubbed Viarace … his friendly competition with fellow WS-residing politicians County Executive Dow Constantine and City Councilmember Tom Rasmussen, to see who would get downtown first. Rasmussen left first, on his bike; Constantine caught a bus – earlier one than he was supposed to, apparently – and that left McDermott to await the shuttle. You may already have seen some of this on TV, as it was a major media event, with the three mobbed by cameras as they alternately joked around and offered serious reminders of your commute options.

All part of the runup to the nine-day, ten-night Alaskan Way Viaduct closure that starts at 7:30 pm tonight – with demolition work beginning on the Viaduct’s south end shortly thereafter – more to come (including video of the 3 “viaracers”)!

8:39 AM UPDATE: The arrivals are in order of departure. Per @newsguysully on Twitter, bicyclist Rasmussen first – in just about half an hour – and bus rider Constantine second. McDermott tracked his commute by Facebook – last update from the Water Taxi: “Beautiful cruise across Elliott Bay! This is a commute!”

8:48 AM UPDATE: And McDermott’s latest status, about a minute ago: “Now arriving City Hall” (an uphill walk a few blocks from Pier 50). He said pre-trip that he’ll be on the Water Taxi Monday too.

ADDED FRIDAY AFTERNOON: King County put together this video recap:

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Reader report: Southwest Community Center’s future
October 21, 2011 7:15 am
|      4 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle parks

Lots of big events last night, including a discussion of Southwest Community Center‘s future – hanging under the cloud of a city-budget proposal to change it into a Teen Life Center and Neighborhood Service Center. We weren’t able to get to that meeting, but Kathleen Lonergan was. She and her children participate in the Family Learning Center programs that have been growing at SWCC this year, and her first note to us led to this WSB story about the programs and participants’ concerns. Last night, she e-mailed us from the meeting; we asked if she would consider sharing a report, and this is the result:

Upward of 40 community members were there which, according to SWCC staff, compares very favorably to the number of folks who have shown up at the other CC meetings in W. Seattle. Upper-level Parks and Rec staff in attendance included Deputy Superintendent Eric Friedli, Recreation Division Director Sue Goodwin, and South Recreation Manager Maureen O’Neill.

It opened with a short presentation by a representative of the Department of Neighborhoods, who detailed the plan to move the NSC from Delridge into SWCC. She was sharply questioned by several community members about security concerns, and was asked what security measures were in place to ensure the safety of people in the center, given that the NSC takes in a significant volume of cash each day. She said the security would resemble that at a bank, and would in fact enhance the safety of the environment at SWCC. There will be panic buttons and video cameras installed in the NSC, and the staff will be protected by a thick glass window.

When pressed about whether this glass would be “bullet-proof,” her response was to say that “no glass is completely bullet-proof” and to stress that the DON has never had a violent incident at any of its NSCs.

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Viaduct closure starts 7:30 pm Friday: Today’s news notes
October 20, 2011 11:38 pm
|      16 COMMENTS
 |   Alaskan Way Viaduct | West Seattle news

(WSDOT photo from Flickr – more demolition equipment arrives at the Viaduct’s south end)
This is it. Tomorrow’s the night … the nine-day, ten-night closure of the Alaskan Way Viaduct begins at 7:30 pm Friday. Unless some other huge news story (heaven forbid) happens in Western Washington, you can expect tomorrow’s news to be All Viaduct, All The Time in advance (for example, WSDOT has assigned a media liaison to be available for interviews at 4:30 am – 15 hours before the closure, but TV morning news will be all over it). Today’s other Vianews highlights:

*The Port of Seattle has made some changes to reduce traffic around the area where many Viaductless drivers will be attempting to get from the “low bridge” to downtown (or beyond). Seattle Times’ transportation reporter Mike Lindblom details them in this story. (As we have reported previously, some relief also may come during afternoon commute, when the “low bridge” is supposed to stay “down” 3-6 pm next Monday-Friday except for “emergencies,” and Burlington Northern has promised to reduce “train-building” in the East Marginal/Hanford area, where that practice often cuts off traffic trying to get from the SODO detour to the “low bridge.”)

*Also mentioned briefly in Mike’s story – announced in a news release earlier today – the city is suspending the $32 flat rate for taxis from downtown to Sea-Tac during the closure period, saying metered rides will “ensure cab drivers are fairly compensated for what are expected to be longer trips due to traffic delays.”

*In response to a question from the last meeting of the South Portal Working Group, WSDOT sent out an update this afternoon saying basically that it can’t guarantee GPS traffic-navigation companies will have maps accurately depicting Viaductlessness. It’s provided the information, the agency says, but it can’t guarantee any of the companies are using it. WSDOT is hopeful, though, that many companies WILL redraw their maps to reflect the Highway 99 construction bypass that will be in place post-closure … but it might take up to six months!

*Still have Viaduct-closure questions? We’re partnering with KING 5 during Viadoom, Viaduct Crunch, whatever you want to call it, for some coverage teamwork, including a live online chat at 11 am Friday – we expect to embed the chat here on WSB, and you’ll find it on the KING site here. Their traffic reporter Tracy Taylor will host the chat; your editor here (Tracy Record) will be part of it to help answer questions.

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Weatherizing Nickelsville: Can you help Saturday afternoon?
October 20, 2011 10:16 pm
|      13 COMMENTS
 |   How to help | West Seattle news

(Photo by Kevin McClintic)
This weekend’s a great time for activities that don’t require crossing the Duwamish Waterway (and of course we all know why). So here’s one: The encampment that calls itself “Nickelsville,” which has been back at its original Highland Park Way/West Marginal Way Southwest site since mid-May, needs a little help. One of its regular community volunteers explains:

A few anonymous folks had 10 yards of gravel delivered to Nickelsville on Tuesday. By thickly covering common areas and pathways with gravel, the residents and donors, will not have to worry about the slippery mud that comes with our Fall/Winter Rains, plus the residents’ shoes and clothes will stay cleaner, as well as their tents. Another 10 yards (28,000 lbs) is going to be delivered tomorrow and we are hoping we can get some West Seattle Community members to come down to help haul, move, spread, etc., the gravel. If interested folks were able to bring shovels, buckets, a wheelbarrow, rakes for spreading, etc., it would make the project go even faster. And monetary donations to purchase even more gravel are greatly appreciated.

If you can help in person, 1-3 pm Saturday is the time frame. If you’re not sure how to find Nickelsville, or if you have another question, contact Joanne at joanne@brayden.org or 206-938-0361. If you are interested in donating money, there’s a collection box at Hotwire Online Coffeehouse (WSB sponsor; 4410 California SW).

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