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NO WATER? City promises new alerts will let you know immediately
September 5, 2024 4:14 pm
|    Comments Off on NO WATER? City promises new alerts will let you know immediately
 |   Utilities | West Seattle news

Unlike power outages, water outages can happen without you finding out until an inconvenient moment – you’ve prepped for a shower or bath, or to cook, or to start the washer, or many other scenarios. Seattle Public Utilities has announced it’s launching text alerts for emergency water outages, promising to text you as soon as you lose service. The announcement says all customers have been opted in to these alerts, but if you don’t want them, SPU says you can opt out. Full details are here.

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UPDATE: Collisions at 42nd/Admiral, 35th/Avalon
September 5, 2024 3:01 pm
|      6 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

3:01 PM: Two busy intersections have crash responses working right now:

(Added: Reader photo)

At 42nd and Admiral, a driver is reported to have hit a pedestrian. Low-level medical response so no major injuries, but we’ll follow up with SFD.

(Added: Traffic-camera image)

At 35th/Avalon, northbound 35th is blocked by a one-car collision. Responders told dispatch there were no injuries in this one.

3:41 PM: Both scenes have been cleared.

4:38 PM: SFD tells WSB that the pedestrian, a 73-year-old woman, was taken to a hospital by private ambulance, and confirms that the 35th/Avalon collision – reported as involving three vehicles – had no injuries.

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BABY ON THE WAY? Free, scenic workout Saturday with FIT4MOM on Lake Washington PT’s West Seattle waterfront rooftop
September 5, 2024 2:09 pm
|    Comments Off on BABY ON THE WAY? Free, scenic workout Saturday with FIT4MOM on Lake Washington PT’s West Seattle waterfront rooftop
 |   Health | West Seattle news

If you have a baby on the way, Saturday morning, the Elliott Bay-facing rooftop terrace at Lake Washington Physical Therapy West Seattle (WSB sponsor) is the place to be. This announcement explains why – and how to register:

If you are expecting or know someone who is, a FREE FIT4BABY prenatal preview class is planned this Saturday, September 7, at 9 am on the rooftop terrace of Lake Washington PT.

You can RSVP with this link and we will enroll you!

The 9 am class will be followed by a short presentation and Q&A on posture and pelvic-floor function pre- and postpartum given by April Johnson PT, DPT, PCES of LWPT, who is also a FIT4BABY alum!!

April is a physical therapist and a pregnancy and postpartum corrective-exercise specialist. Her goal is to help women decrease pain during pregnancy and safely return to activity postpartum. She has a deep understanding of the issues associated with pregnancy and strives to master the whole-body approach to women’s health. This process involves restoring posture, breathing mechanics, pelvic floor function (external), strength and much more! Some of the most common conditions treated are low back pain, sacroiliac joint pain, neck/shoulder pain, diastasis recti and incontinence.

For the class, please enter Lake Washington PT through the main entrance at 1309 Harbor Ave SW, Suite A. Street parking will be available. Make sure to check in at the front desk and someone will be there to direct you to the rooftop terrace. We can’t wait to see you then!

Forecast for Saturday morning so far – more sunshine!

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UPDATE: Avocado spill on Spokane Street Viaduct
September 5, 2024 1:12 pm
|      41 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

1:12 PM: Thanks to the reader who texted, “A truck just dumped boxes and boxes of avocados on Spokane Street (Viaduct) where the huge construction bumps are.” SDOT confirms it, though the camera is zoomed in so close, we don’t know (yet) which direction.

1:19 PM: SDOT says it’s on the eastbound side, and says a response team is on the way to clean this up. Also awaiting info on how it happened, etc.

3:32 PM: Added that photo from our original texter. Not a huge spill.

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RIDE! Three upcoming West Seattle bicycling events to know about
September 5, 2024 11:47 am
|    Comments Off on RIDE! Three upcoming West Seattle bicycling events to know about
 |   Transportation | West Seattle news

We’re spotlighting this trio of events in case you haven’t already seen them in the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

STEVE HULSMAN MEMORIAL RIDE: This Saturday, Cascade Bicycle Club is gathering riders to remember the West Seattle man killed in a collision with a driver in Arbor Heights last year:

Please join us on Saturday, Sept. 7 at 9:00 am for a memorial ride to celebrate the life of Steve Hulsman, the long-time Cascade member and volunteer Ride Leader who was tragically hit and killed while biking in West Seattle in December.

We will gather at 9 a.m. in the main parking lot at Lincoln Park in West Seattle [8011 Fauntleroy Way SW], where Steve’s family and close friends will speak about his life and love of bicycling. We will also hear from elected officials about the need for continued investment in protected bike lanes and active transportation infrastructure to improve safety for people biking and walking. Before departing by bike, we will raise a toast to Steve (coffee, Nuun, and orange juice will be provided). The ride is expected to start at about 10 a.m. following a safety briefing from Cascade Ride Leaders. All riders must wear a helmet and attend the safety briefing to participate.

The ride is offered in three distinct routes, 14 miles to 42 miles. Full details are on the Cascade website.

TRY OUT ADAPTIVE CYCLES: Outdoors for All is returning to West Seattle’s Alki Point Healthy Street (Beach Drive north of 63rd SW) this Sunday with another free adaptive-bike demo event for people with disabilities. This will be like the one back in June, from which the organization shares this photo:

The organization says this is for “anyone age 7+ who needs an adaptive bike due to permanent or temporary disability, or those who are no longer comfortable riding a 2-wheeled bike due to balance and coordination issues.” You’ll find them there 10 am-2 pm Sunday (September 8).

LEARN ABOUT GREENWAYS: Stu Hennessey is organizing a bicycle tour of West Seattle Greenways at noon Saturday, September 14, free, no registration required, with West Seattle Bike Connections. Stu explains, “I feel that this safer route plan has not been fully understood by cyclists and motorists alike. This is an educational ride with stops to explain connections and future Greenway prospects. The 12-mile route has some hills. Most streets are quiet and have low traffic count and low speed limits.The ride will be un-mapped while we ride together. No one gets left behind.” Just show up at his shop, Alki Bike and Board (2606 California SW; WSB sponsor), before departure time.

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Laugh, learn, walk, run, dance, cheer … Options for your West Seattle Thursday
September 5, 2024 9:49 am
|    Comments Off on Laugh, learn, walk, run, dance, cheer … Options for your West Seattle Thursday
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Dahlias, photographed in north Genesee Hill by Janelle Otterholt)

Here’s what’s happening for the rest of your Thursday, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you can preview the hours, days, and weeks ahead any time):

SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: If you need late-summer-and-beyond plants, the center is open Thursdays-Saturdays 10 am-3 pm, north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus. Annuals, perennials, sun, shade, natives, edibles, ground covers … wide variety!

NAVIGATING MEDICARE: Trying to sort it all out? This 11 am presentation at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Orchard) can help.

UNDERSTANDING THE LOW-FODMAP DIET: Spend a little time to learn a lot in this free webinar with Neighborhood Naturopathic and Primary Care (WSB sponsor), 12:30 pm-1 pm online. Our calendar listing has the registration link.

WEST SEATTLE UKULELE PLAYERS: All levels welcome to this weekly 1 pm gathering. Email westseattleukuleleplayerswsup@gmail.com for info on where they’re playing today.

NORTHWEST WINE ACADEMY: Tasting room/wine bar open Thursdays-Saturdays 1 pm-6 pm, north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus. Food too – stop by to sip and nosh!

STRONG BODIES, STRONG BONES: 2:30 pm yoga class at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon).

HPCS FOOD-TRUCK VISIT: Every Thursday, 4-8 pm, Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) gets a food-truck visit. Tonight you’ll find Impeckable Chicken at HPCS.

VISCON CELLARS: The West Seattle winery’s tasting room/wine bar is open 5-9 pm (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor) for wine by the glass or bottle.

WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fauntleroy for a group walk in Lincoln Park – details in our calendar listing.

HIGHLAND PARK RUN CLUB: 6:30 pm, meet at Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) for a 3-mile run through the neighborhood. (Walking option, too!)

BLUES NIGHT: 6:30-9 pm at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way), every Thursday it’s blues night.

HIGH-SCHOOL FOOTBALL: First game of the season for the West Seattle High School Wildcats, hosting Bainbridge HS at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle), 7 pm.

PIANO BAR: Music, dancing, fun at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon), with Larry Knapp at the keyboard. 7 pm. $10 entry; beverages available for purchase.

TRIVIA: 7 pm at Burger Planet (9614 14th SW).

COMEDY: Jokes at The Junction, 8 pm at Great American Diner and Bar (4752 California SW) – tickets still available at last check!

Planning an event that should be on our calendar and in our daily preview lists? Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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YOU CAN HELP: Madison Middle School PTSA fundraiser
September 5, 2024 9:12 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   How to help | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

As the new school year scales up, we’re back to spotlighting school-related fundraisers – here’s an announcement from the Madison Middle School PTSA:

Madison Middle School PTSA has a shiny new website thanks to a parent volunteer and we are holding our back-to-school fundraising drive through September 30.

With these donations we can fund field trips and enrichment opportunities such as online curriculum access, guest speakers, professional development, and magazine subscriptions. With the community’s generous donations last year, we were able to purchase new outdoor seating for the cafeteria, new books for the library, fund the entire 7th and 8th grades for a walking field trip to view “Boys in the Boat” at the Admiral Theater, provide community dinners, guest speakers, teacher appreciation and more! These funds also helped teachers buy basic necessities like graph paper, highlighters, and art supplies. Thank you in advance for your support! Donations can be made here. Go Bulldogs!

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER, ROAD WORK: Thursday notes
September 5, 2024 6:01 am
|    Comments Off on TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER, ROAD WORK: Thursday notes
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:01 AM: Good morning! It’s Thursday, September 5, and almost everyone’s now back in school

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

The National Weather Service‘s Heat Advisory alert for our area takes effect at 8 am today. Today’s forecast calls for sun and a mid-80s high. Today’s sunrise will be at 6:34 am, while sunset will be at 7:40 pm.

SPOKANE ST. VIADUCT AND OTHER ROAD WORK OF NOTE

*Here’s the plan for this week’s work on the Spokane Street Viaduct resurfacing project. Again tonight – the two left eastbound lanes will be closed 7 pm to 6 am.

*For the Admiral Way Bridge seismic project, the north half of the bridge remains closed, with one lane each way on the south side; Fairmount Avenue remains closed under the bridge.

*The Delridge pedestrian-bridge earthquake-safety project also continues, with narrowing at Delridge/Oregon.

*The East Marginal Way S. project continues, with a temporary routing change for bicycle riders (explained at that link).

*Beach Drive: Gas-pipeline work continues at spots along the southern stretch. You’ll find no-parking zones and steel plates, plus flaggers.

TRANSIT NOTES

Water Taxi today – Regular schedule for both routes.

Metro buses today – Regular schedules.

Washington State Ferries today – 2 boats on the Triangle Route. Note that the “unscheduled third boat” will not be available today because it’s temporarily moving to another run.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

High Bridge – Here’s the main camera:

High Bridge – The Fauntleroy-end camera:

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

Low bridge: Here’s the main view:

1st Avenue South Bridge:

South Park Bridge – Looking east:

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; West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras are on this WSB page.

BRIDGE INFO: The @SDOTBridges feed on X (ex-Twitter) shows whether the city’s movable bridges are open for vessel traffic.

If you see a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water, please text or call our hotline (when you can do that 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 CRIME WATCH: South Delridge gunfire investigation
September 5, 2024 12:21 am
|      19 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Police responding to reports of suspected gunfire in South Delridge have found confirmation. Officers just told dispatch they’ve found casings at 17th/Barton. No reports of injuries so far. No witnesses, either (and thus, no descriptions).

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Repeat mail thief back in jail; 2 weekend incidents
September 4, 2024 9:41 pm
|      9 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

In West Seattle Crime Watch tonight:

REPEAT MAIL THIEF BACK IN JAIL: We’ve reported before on 40-year-old Jason A. Turner, mostly in connection with Delridge-area mail theft, most recently in 2021. Tonight he is in jail again after a series of incidents in Westwood, at the end of which police say he was found in possession of “a large (amount) of mail.” He is not yet charged but we are identifying him because he is still in Department of Corrections “community custody” as the result of a sentence in previous mail-theft convictions.

The Westwood incidents started with a woman calling to report that a man had broken into her fenced yard and knocked on her window while he stood outside her house, exposing and touching his genitals. Before police caught up with him, he was reported to have engaged in the same behavior a few blocks away, in two Westwood Village stores, Spirit Halloween and Marshall’s. Officers found Turner in the center parking lot. In addition to the mail found on him, they also found “a photocopy of a passport and a Social Security card.” That was basis to book him for investigation of identity theft, as well as – for the first incident – investigation of burglary with sexual motivation. King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office spokesperson Casey McNerthney says they asked for $100,000 bail and the judge set the amount at $50,000. Meantime, a DOC spokesperson tells us that Turner has been serving “a 12-month term in Community Custody on five counts of Possession of Stolen Mail. His supervisory period is scheduled to end on 2/28/2025.” (Since he’s in the state system, that’s why we have access to a mugshot.) Court records indicated that followed a three-month jail sentence. We’ll find out tomorrow if he’s charged in this new case and what happens next. Conditions of his community custody – Washington’s version of probation – include “not to possess others’ mail or financial information.”

Also in Crime Watch tonight – two robberies disclosed in summaries from the holiday weekend, released by SPD today:

MONDAY MARIJUANA ROBBERY: Police say this happened at a marijuana business in the 6900 block of West Marginal Way SW at 5:30 pm. Three people held up an employee at gunpoint and threatened to kill him if he didn’t let them inside, the summary says, adding that the employee’s wife – “who works inside, allowed the suspects in to save her husband’s life.” They left with “bins of marijuana, approximate value of $15,000,” in a vehicle, no description of it or them in the summary.

FRIDAY HOME-INVASION ATTEMPT: This summary says that just after 4 am in the 5400 block of 17th SW, would-be home invaders tried to pry open and kick down a door; they were gone before police arrived. Officers say “it was discovered that an unreported home invasion occurred here the week prior. … During that incident, victim found suspects inside home with younger sibling, holding them at gunpoint. They demanded jewelry known to be owned by the victim. They left with the victim’s purse and containing a large amount of cash.” No description info in this summary either.

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Two ways to preview this year’s West Seattle Art Tour!
September 4, 2024 7:47 pm
|    Comments Off on Two ways to preview this year’s West Seattle Art Tour!
 |   West Seattle news | WS culture/arts

The West Seattle Art Tour is just two and a half weeks away – and organizers have announced two ways you can preview it!

The West Seattle Art Tour, September 21, 2024, 10 am – 5 pm, is at 14 artist-hosted locations across West Seattle. This free, self-guided tour features a full spectrum of art, a chance to meet and talk with 55 participating artists, and the opportunity to purchase exceptional works of art, all while exploring West Seattle’s beautiful neighborhoods.

Get a sneak preview of 2024 West Seattle Art Tour during September 12th West Seattle Art Walk! A sampler of art from 2024 West Seattle Art Tour locations will be on display during September 12th West Seattle Art Walk, 5:00-8:00 pm at NOR Design and Construction, 5953 California Ave, Suite #100.

What you can do right now: Maps and Artist Gallery are Up! Visitors can plan their tour with the just-released online map, print off a paper copy of the map, and peruse a virtual gallery of all 55 artists on the Tour website.

West Seattle Art Tour is organized by an all-volunteer committee of more than 20 artists and art lovers with support from West Seattle Art Walk. Individuals interested in supporting the West Seattle Art Tour can reach out to WSArtHop@gmail.com.

This is the third year for the Art Tour (previously known as Art Hop & Shop).

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WEST SEATTLE WEATHER: Heat alert for Thursday and Friday
September 4, 2024 6:20 pm
|    Comments Off on WEST SEATTLE WEATHER: Heat alert for Thursday and Friday
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle weather

(Alki photo sent by Jolie Bass-Walden)

Today’s most dramatic weather feature was the morning fog. Tomorrow and Friday, different story, says the National Weather Service – it’ll be afternoon heat. The Heat Advisory alert for those two days, first issued Tuesday, still warns of potentially record highs, 80s to 90s (normal for this time of year is mid-70s). So don’t store your fan(s) just yet! The alert officially takes effect 8 am Thursday and will continue until 11 pm Friday.

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ELECTION 2024: Public Lands Commissioner recount finalized
September 4, 2024 4:54 pm
|      12 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

checkbox.jpgFinal results are in for the one loose end from the August primary – the by-hand recount required for state Commissioner of Public Lands race, because the original count had the second- and third-place candidates only 51 votes apart. Final recount results, certified today, didn’t change the top two – the November 5 election will be between Republican Jaime Herrera Beutler, a former U.S. House Rep. from southwestern Washington, and Democrat Dave Upthegrove, a King County Councilmember from Des Moines. The recount changed the margin between Upthegrove and Republican Sue Kuehl Pederson by only two votes, so they finished 49 votes apart. The Commissioner of Public Lands position is open because two-term incumbent Hilary Franz decided to run for Congress in District 6; she finished that primary in third place. General-election ballots will start arriving in mailboxes around October 18, a little over six weeks away.

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UPDATE: Crash at Fauntleroy/Alaska
September 4, 2024 3:35 pm
|      12 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

3:35 PM: Thanks for the tips. SFD and SPD are on the scene of what was dispatched as a three-vehicle collision at Fauntleroy/Alaska, said to be blocking most of the intersection (partly shown in traffic-cam screenshot above), so avoid that area for a while.

4:20 PM: Metro alerts indicate traffic is flowing again. We’re checking with SFD on whether anyone was hurt.

5:29 PM: SFD tells us one person was checked out, a woman in her early 60s, and that she did not need further treatment.

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FOLLOWUP: City narrows timeframe for clearing SW Trenton encampment
September 4, 2024 3:07 pm
|      51 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | Westwood

(Tuesday afternoon)

As reported here last Friday afternoon, just before the holiday weekend, the city sent an update about the SW Trenton RV encampment, saying it would be cleared “within three weeks.” It was too late for us to reach a city rep for clarification until after Labor Day weekend, but we’ve since heard back from spokesperson Callie Craighead. She says, “The Unified Care Team has a scheduled resolution date for this site in the second half of September, pending shelter bed availability. Notices will be posted 72 hours prior to the scheduled date.” In late August, the city had said only that it was “closely monitoring” the site.

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BACK TO SCHOOL: High-school football season starts tomorrow with WSHS home game. Supporters have a request
September 4, 2024 1:39 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   How to help | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

(WSB file photo)

The start of the new school year means the start of the season for fall sports. Tomorrow (Thursday, September 5) brings the first local football game – West Seattle High School hosts Bainbridge HS at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle), 7 pm. Supporters hope you’ll show up to cheer for the Wildcats. They also have this request:

West Seattle High School football’s singular direct give fundraiser to the community concludes this Friday, September 6. We have a record number of players this year and minimal funds supporting the team through SPS Athletics. All tax-deductible funds raised go toward equipment, uniforms, coaches’ stipends, nutrition, team meals, banquets, and awards. This year we have set up a friendly captain’s squad competition.

Fundraiser: wshs.schoolauction.net/2024footballfundraiser/give/list

More information including a link to our game schedule, team, and generous sponsors can be found on our website: westseattlefootball.com

Thank you in advance!

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VIDEO: A first and a last at West Seattle Elementary, as students start the school year with ‘Be There’ celebration
September 4, 2024 12:01 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   High Point | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

The first day of school began with a joyful tradition at West Seattle Elementary – the annual “Be There Rally,” with staff – that’s Akim Finch, above, who also DJ’d – and community members lining a red carpet to greet the students with high-fives, cheers, and applause.

Among the greeters was principal Pam McCowan-Conyers, for whom this “Be There” was bittersweet, as the hug from assistant principal Richie Garcia acknowledged:

She’s retiring after this year, so this was her final “Be There” – she spoke briefly, recalling what she has learned in 15 years at WSES, as well as sharing expectations and plans for the year ahead:

But meantime, there were many high-fives to be given – among those joining the principal and her staff this morning were West Seattle’s School Board Director Gina Topp (as mentioned in McCowan-Conyers’ remarks):

According to district documents, West Seattle Elementary had an enrollment of about 350 students last year and was forecast for about the same this year.

The addition/renovations completed last year gave it a capacity of 500, which will doubtlessly be a consideration when Superintendent Dr. Brent Jones announces his consolidation proposals next month.

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Learn about volunteering, Ukraine relief, airport studies, more on our West Seattle Wednesday event list
September 4, 2024 10:03 am
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Foggy morning on the bay – photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)

Here’s our list of what’s happening today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you can always preview the hours, days, and weeks ahead!):

TODDLER READING TIME AT THE BOOKSTORE: 10:30 am at Paper Boat Booksellers (6040 California SW).

SOUTHWEST POOL OPEN: In case you missed our update on Tuesday, the pool has reopened after its two-week repair/maintenance closure. You can see its schedule here. (2801 SW Thistle)

TODDLER STORY TIME AT THE LIBRARY: 3 pm at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW).

LEARN ABOUT VOLUNTEERING FOR SWSHS: 4-6 pm, open house at the Log House Museum (61st/Stevens) for people interested in volunteering with the Southwest Seattle Historical Society.

FIX-IT WORKSHOP: Fix it, don’t toss it! Weekly event, free (donations appreciated), 5:30-7:30 pm at West Seattle Tool Library (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center).

LEARN ABOUT UKRAINE RELIEF: The guest speaker at tonight’s Kiwanis Club of West Seattle meeting will be returning to Ukraine soon to help with relief efforts. Hear tonight at 6 what it’s really like there. Dinner meeting at Great American Diner and Bar (4752 California SW), non-members welcome too.

BOEING FIELD NOISE STUDY OPEN HOUSE: Not in West Seattle but relevant – 6-7:30 pm, learn about future plans and studies related to the airport just over the ridge – details in our calendar listing. (KCIA Flight Service Station, 6526 Ellis Ave. S.)

FREE GROUP RUN: All runners, all levels, are welcome to join the weekly West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) group run – meet at the shop by 6:15 pm.

ALSO AT WSR – GOT FIT INFO NIGHT: 6:30 pm at the store, come learn about the free training program Got Fit West Seattle – “free intermediate half marathon group training program for runners … for those who have run a half marathon before.” Got Fit starts this Saturday, so be there tonight to find out more.

TRIVIA x 4: Four places where you play tonight: At 6 pm, Locust Cider (2820 Alki SW) offers trivia … Larry’s Tavern (3405 California SW) hosts Wednesday-night trivia starting at 7:30 pm … Quiz Night begins at 8 pm at Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW) … and at 8:30 pm, trivia with Phil T at Talarico’s (4718 California SW).

LIVE MUSIC AT THE LOCOL: 6:30 pm. 21+. Rotating performer slate. (7902 35th SW)

YOGA IN THE PARK: Two West Seattle teachers lead this outdoor-yoga event at Myrtle Reservoir Park (35th/Myrtle), 6:30 pm – follow the link for ticket info.

MUSIC BINGO X 2: One night, two options! Play at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7 pm … At Three 9 Lounge (39th/Oregon), you can play MINGO music bingo at 7:30 pm Wednesdays, hosted by Mingo Maniac.

SKYLARK OPEN MIC: The spotlight is yours! 7:30 pm signups for West Seattle’s longest-running open mic. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

Planning an open house, reading, tour, fundraiser, sale, discussion, show, meeting, presentation, etc., that’s open to the community? Please send us info so we can get it onto West Seattle’s only comprehensive event calendar! westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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Remembering Maria Pertik, R.N., Ph.D.
September 4, 2024 9:18 am
|      10 COMMENTS
 |   Obituaries | West Seattle news

Family and friends are remembering Maria Pertik and sharing this remembrance with her community:

Maria “Dr Mo” Pertik R.N./Ph.D. had many talents, but she was a dangerous cook. She specialized in kitchen explosions and fires.

She died joyfully on 9/3/2024 with her daughter and husband by her side. Maria stayed true to her belief in herself and ability to accomplish many dreams. She travelled the world, ran two marathons, volunteered at the free clinic and national parks, wrote two books, and cared for her mother with dementia. She worked as a nature guide for children in the Seattle parks and was a medical volunteer in the Amazon Basin.

On an airplane flight, she was the only passenger to jump up to help when a man lost consciousness, and ended up saving his life. She opened her home to strangers who needed help, and recently became a loving grandmother to baby Laila.

She faced death head on, embraced the impermanence of life, and spread her light wherever she went. She made the world a better place.

(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, TRANSIT, WEATHER, ROAD WORK: Back-to-school Wednesday
September 4, 2024 6:00 am
|    Comments Off on TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER, ROAD WORK: Back-to-school Wednesday
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:00 AM: Good morning! It’s Wednesday, September 4, and almost everyone who’s not already back at school returns today, including Seattle Public Schools first- through twelfth-graders.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory alert for our area for Thursday and Friday. But first, today’s forecast is nothing unusual – sunny, high in the mid-70s. Today’s sunrise will be at 6:32 am, while sunset will be at 7:42 pm.

(Tuesday’s sunset – photo sent by Nico)

SPOKANE ST. VIADUCT AND OTHER ROAD WORK

*Here’s the plan for this week’s work on the Spokane Street Viaduct resurfacing project. Tonight – the two left eastbound lanes will be closed 7 pm to 6 am.

*For the Admiral Way Bridge seismic project, the north half of the bridge is closed, with one lane each way on the south side; Fairmount Avenue remains closed under the bridge. (One last mention – there’s a new 39th/Admiral crosswalk.)

*The Delridge pedestrian-bridge earthquake-safety project also continues, with narrowing at Delridge/Oregon.

*The East Marginal Way S. project continues, with a temporary routing change for bicycle riders (explained at that link).

*Beach Drive: Gas-pipeline work continues at spots along the southern stretch. You’ll find no-parking zones and steel plates, plus flaggers.

TRANSIT NOTES

Water Taxi today – Regular schedule for both routes.

Metro buses today – Regular schedules.

Washington State Ferries today – 2 boats on the Triangle Route. Note that the “unscheduled third boat” will not be available for part of this week because it’s temporarily moving to another run.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

High Bridge – Here’s the main camera:

High Bridge – The Fauntleroy-end camera:

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

Low bridge: Here’s the main view:

1st Avenue South Bridge:

South Park Bridge – Looking east:

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; West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras are on this WSB page.

BRIDGE INFO: The @SDOTBridges feed on X (ex-Twitter) shows whether the city’s movable bridges are open for vessel traffic.

If you see a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water, please text or call our hotline (when you can do that safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Local notes on the eve of Seattle Public Schools’ 2024-2025 year
September 3, 2024 9:25 pm
|      5 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

For thousands of local students and their families, the new school year starts tomorrow – the first day of classes at Seattle Public Schools and the independent schools that haven’t already launched 2024-2025. Here are some local SPS-related notes:

SAFETY AND MENTAL HEALTH: The district has promised an intensified focus on this, and the city has committed some funding for new or expanded programs. Advance announcements mention “focused intervention” for safety and security at high and middle schools including Chief Sealth and Denny – that means a variety of programs explained in the announcement, as well as – at Sealth and other “focus” high schools – police presence before/after school and during lunch “as staffing allows.” For mental health, city dollars will expand resources at school-based health centers, including seven West Seattle campuses (listed here).

NEW PRINCIPALS: Three West Seattle SPS schools start the year with new principals — Fairmount Park Elementary, where Sara Davis is now principal; Arbor Heights Elementary, where Nooria Miskell is interim principal; and Louisa Boren STEM K-8, where Kimberly Noble is now interim principal.

INTERIM SITE: Alki Elementary is holding classes at the former Schmitz Park Elementary for the second of what’s expected to be three years. Construction of the new, larger Alki has begun after the second zoning-exception appeal was rejected, as covered here in detail. Meantime, the school board voted last week to approve a 20 percent increase in the “maximum price” of the construction contract – previously $53 million, now $63 million. District documents say the added cost will be covered by the levy that is funding the project, along with federal dollars.

WSES ‘BE THERE’ RALLY: West Seattle Elementary in High Point will start the new year with this tradition on Wednesday morning, community members lining a red carpet to cheer for the students as they arrive, as they’ve been doing since 2016. They’re gathering starting at 7:15 am, at the entrance that was dedicated along with the school’s added classrooms on the first day of school last year.

What else is new? Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, staffer, parent, student, neighbor, we hope to hear from you throughout the year – 206-293-6302 (text/voice) if it’s urgent, westseattleblog@gmail.com when it’s not – thank you!

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: North Admiral car-theft-attempt followup; car prowled
September 3, 2024 7:14 pm
|      16 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

Two West Seattle Crime Watch notes so far today:

CAR-THEFT ATTEMPT FOLLOWUP: Late Friday night, we reported on a North Admiral incident in which a man fired his gun three times “in defense” after a reported car-theft attempt. No injuries or damage reported. One person was detained – a juvenile who was initially suspected of being one of the theft-attempt suspects. He was booked into the county juvenile detention center early Saturday. Juvenile cases move quickly, even over holiday weekends, so today we asked the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office what had happened in this one so far. KCPAO spokesperson Casey McNerthney tells WSB, “The case has not been sent to us by police, and the respondent was released from detention because there was not probable cause for the arrest of this specific respondent. The investigation with police may still be ongoing, and prosecutors will review a case immediately if police send one to us.”

Also in Crime Watch, one reader report:

CAR PROWLED: From Kelly in Gatewood:

We got our car rifled through (Sunday) night in Gatewood near 39th and Southern. My fault – I think I left the car unlocked. I hardly ever do that. They opened everything and left it all out on the seats and went through the trunk. I’m not sure that they took anything. I don’t have anything valuable in there but I also can’t really remember.

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BIZNOTE: Get out on the water! Alki Kayak Tours’ fall hours
September 3, 2024 5:46 pm
|    Comments Off on BIZNOTE: Get out on the water! Alki Kayak Tours’ fall hours
 |   Seen at sea | West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

Prime time for getting out on the water is nowhere near over. Alki Kayak Tours (WSB sponsor) has launched fall hours, and wants you to know about your options for tours, rentals, and classes:

September is here, but there’s still plenty of paddling to enjoy! Late summer/early fall is one of the best times to explore the Pacific Northwest waters with vibrant fall colors and increased wildlife sightings. Starting today, Alki Kayak Tours’ fall hours will be in effect (weather permitting):

Sea Kayak Tours (7 days a week by reservation)
•Alki Lighthouse Tour: 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
•Elliott Bay Tour: 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
•Sunset Tour: Departs 2 hours before sunset

Hourly rentals by reservation, Friday through Monday from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Check our calendar for available classes and lessons.

Happy fall and happy paddling with Alki Kayak Tours!

AKT is headquartered at Seacrest (1660 Harbor SW).

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