Shortly after we moved here in 1991 so your editor could start work at a local TV station, we happened onto a local comedy show on a different station – and for most of the rest of that decade, it was a regular part of our Saturday nights, as it was for so many people back then.

(September 1994 TV Guide page kept by Tracey Conway, used with Now & Then permission)

The show, “Almost Live!“, was almost midway through its 15-year-run on KING TV by the time we first watched, a half-hour that made fun of current events as well as specific Seattle-and-vicinity neighborhoods – with sketches like “Ballard Driving Academy,” “Cops in Wallingford,” “East Side Story,” even “The Making of Studs of South King County,” as well as lampooning life in the Northwest – the timeless tale of “Seattle Summer”, for example.

We’d heard The Seattle Times was looking back this weekend on “Almost Live!” to mark 40 years since the show’s debut, synergizing with a Museum of History and Industry exhibit that opens next weekend. What we didn’t know was that a West Seattle journalist/historian wrote the stories comprising a package that figures prominently in today’s print edition of The Times, especially its Pacific Magazine, until that writer, Clay Eals, mentioned it while visiting our booth at Saturday’s Admiral Funktion street festival.

The “Almost Live!” exploration is in the spirit of the “Now & Then” columns that Clay co-produces for the newspaper’s weekly magazine, but much more in-depth. And you don’t have to be a Times subscriber to see the results of the three months Clay spent diving into “Almost Live!” – the Now & Then website has even more. And Clay mentioned two West Seattleites who factor into it – more on that in a moment. First, some links: The main Times story is here; as Clay writes, the show “proved that a major city could laugh at itself with universal appeal.” Even if you were an “Almost Live!” superfan, his story will likely tell you a lot you didn’t know about its history and origins. And if you’ve ever wondered what happened to the performers – who were among the 30+ people Clay interviewed – here’s that story. Then there’s the story about the MOHAI exhibit’s champion, and a related Now & Then column. Oh, plus “Where to find more ‘Almost Live!‘,” including YouTube.

If that sounds like a lot, consider that Clay says it’s only a fraction of what you’ll find on the Now & Then website – start here and wander at will. (If you can’t see the Times stories because of the paywall, Clay’s site has free-to-view versions of them all.)

Now, as for the West Seattleites who factor into this: First, one of the regular performers on “Almost Live!”, Tracey Conway, is a WS resident. Here’s a video she produced with some of her favorite characters:

And here she is in a recent photo by Clay:

He notes, “She’s quoted in the cover story and shown in 14 photos therein. But she also is part of the sketches sidebar” – best and most-overlooked sketches – and the material on Now & Then includes excerpts from his interview with her.

A West Seattleite playing a smaller but memorable role, Clay points out, is Aurora Bennett, who runs John Bennett Properties. “At age 8, she stars in one of what I say in the sketches sidebar is an ‘overlooked’ sketch, ‘Totally Realistic Barbi’ (no typo), just 1:40 long, from 1994. Quite timely given last year’s Barbie movie phenomenon. Tracey Conway plays her mom.” You can see it here.

If you get the print edition of The Times, Clay says “Almost Live!” stories and photos comprise 18 of the magazine’s 26 pages, as well as “a significant chunk of The Mix,” the arts-and-entertainment section of the paper itself. Meantime, the MOHAI exhibit opens August 31st and is expected to be on display for six months – here’s more about it.

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WEST SEATTLE SUNDAY: Here’s what’s happening today/tonight

August 25, 2024 6:03 am

| 3 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Western Tanager photographed in Gatewood by Mark Dale)

Here’s our list for the final Sunday in August, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you’ll find even more):

SPOKANE STREET VIADUCT OPEN: One more reminder – this weekend’s planned resurfacing-project closure was canceled because of rain, so the bridge between Highway 99 and I-5 is open. We’ll get an update Monday on the coming week’s closure plan.

MARATHON SWIMMERS’ RELAY: As announced earlier this week by the Northwest Open Water Swimming Association:

An all-female relay, supported by a female pilot and a female observer (local marathon swimmer Stephanie Zimmerman) will swim an unprecedented route for NOWSA from Alki Point Lighthouse, around Blake Island, and back to the lighthouse. Melissa Kegler, a Triple Crown marathon swimmer (English Channel, Catalina Channel, around Manhattan Island) spearheads the relay, which includes women covering all decades from 30-70: Becky Smith, Carol Horowitz, Guila Muir, Emily White, and Shea DeWald. They are all “Notorious Alki Swimmers” who you will find swimming regularly from the Alki Bathhouse, and Carol, Emily, and Shea are West Seattle residents. Boat support will be provided by Seastr PNW, an organization dedicated to inclusive access to waterborne activities for people who have been historically excluded from the maritime industry and water sports. They will be starting from the Alki Lighthouse at 8 am, and returning back sometime in the afternoon.

Once their swim begins, you can track their progress here.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST: Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) is cooking one up for you today, 8 am-noon – details in our calendar listing.

BIG BLUE TRUCK: Fourth weekend for the West Seattle return of the Northwest Center‘s donation-dropoff truck (WSB sponsor)! You’ll find it outside WaFd Bank (4102 California SW). Our calendar listing has info on what items the truck will accept. 9 am-5 pm.

SWIM IN THE SOUND: Ready for a much shorter Puget Sound swim than the one we mentioned above? At 9 am, you can join the weekly group plunge into Puget Sound off Alki – meet at Statue of Liberty Plaza (61st/Alki).

WESTIES RUN CLUB: 9 am, the Westies meet up at Dough Joy Donuts (4310 SW Oregon) for this week’s Sunday run.

WORSHIP AND PICNIC IN THE PARK: You’re invited to join Peace Lutheran Church for outdoor worship followed by a potluck picnic, at Lincoln Park Picnic Shelter #1 (south end of park), 9:30 am, more info on the church website.

DEEP SEA CONSERVATION FESTIVAL: As previewed here, a West Seattle student and Girl Scout is on a mission to help you learn about and appreciate this amazing ecosystem – so if you can get to the UW Fisheries Science Building between 10 am and 5 pm, that’s where you can do it!

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm, midsummer produce, plus beverages, baked goods, flowers, cheese, fish, meat, prepared food, nuts, candy, more. (California SW between SW Alaska and SW Oregon) P.S. Market managers are asking shoppers to take an online survey.

SUNDAYS IN THE ALLEY: Pop-up shopping experience – apparel, art, music too – behind Carmilia’s, in the alley behind the east side of the 4500 block of California SW, 10 am-3 pm. More info in our calendar listing.

TROLL ANNIVERSARY: First anniversary of Bruun Idun‘s dedication at Lincoln Park. You can visit, but the 10 am restoration work party in her honor has maxed out on participants, so it’s too late to join that.

YOUTH BALLET AUDITIONS: Reminder, today is tryout day for “The Magical Doll Maker” – presented by West Seattle-based Seattle Civic Dance Theater, with auditions this afternoon in Burien. Info’s in our preview; tryout registration is here.

FESTIVAL CENTROAMERICANO: Free all-ages celebration of Central American cultures, noon-5 pm at Westcrest Park (9000 8th SW). Live music, dance, art, food, more.

COLMAN POOL: The outdoor heated-salt-water pool on the shore at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW) is open to the public today, noon-7 pm – session times are on the Colman Pool webpage.

LINCOLN PARK WADING POOL: Elsewhere at Lincoln Park, if it’s open today (check 206-684-7796 after 9 am), you’ll find this 7-days-a-week city wading pool, noon-7 pm, in the central upper part of the park near the north play area.

SOUTHWEST POOL CLOSED: Maintenance and repair work continues.

ALKI POINT LIGHTHOUSE TOURS: Second-to-last chance this season! U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteers are at Alki Point Lighthouse today for free tours starting at 1 pm; get there by 3:45 pm for the last tour of the day. (3201 Alki SW)

WESTWOOD VILLAGE END-OF-SUMMER BASH: 1-4 pm in the breezeway north of Big 5 and Fitness 19, free activities – details in our calendar listing.

CLASSIC NOVELS (AND MOVIES) BOOK CLUB: August gathering, 3 pm at C & P Coffee Company (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor) – our calendar listing has info on this month’s discussion topic.

HEALING CIRCLE: 4-6 pm at Nurture Wellbeing (6307 California SW) – pre-registration required.

FREE OUTDOOR COMMUNITY YOGA: 6 pm at Lowman Beach Park (7017 Beach Drive SW) – details in our calendar listing.

GONG BATH & NATURE MEDITATION: 7 pm at Lowman Beach Park (7017 Beach Drive SW) – ticket link’s in our calendar listing.

JET CITY IMPROV @ ARTSWEST: Sold out!

LIVE MUSIC AT THE ALLEY: Enjoy Sunday night music with the Triangular Jazztet at The Alley (4509 California SW) – 8-10 pm.

Organizing and/or publicizing something that should be on our community event calendar – one-time or recurring? Please email us the basics – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Assault investigation on Harbor Avenue

August 25, 2024 3:57 am

| 9 COMMENTS

| Crime | West Seattle news

3:57 AM: Details are few, but police are investigating how two men with apparent assault injuries wound up abandoned in the street-end parking lot south of Salty’s on Alki. Seattle Fire medics are treating the men, believed to be in their 30s, one described as “going in and out of consciousness.” Police also have found a car in the lot that they told dispatch has a “spent casing in the back seat,” a “live round,” and what appears to be “fresh bullet damage,” but they don’t know whether the gunfire happened there or elsewhere. The men were found about half an hour ago. We’ll following up with SPD and SFD later this morning.

10:54 AM: SFD says the men, 22 and 26, were both taken to the hospital in stable condition.

4:09 PM: SPD has provided us with this summary of what their investigation has determined so far:

The victims were pulling out of the Salty’s lot located at the 1900 BLK of Harbor Ave SW and there was a vehicle collision. The suspects exited the vehicle and made threats to assault the victims. The suspects assaulted the victims, and they suffered head, arm, and waist injuries. The victims both possibly have concussions. The suspects were (gone) upon officers’ arrival.

If you have any information, the incident # is 24-239692.

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PHOTOS: Caftans and curls abound at West Seattle Mrs. Roper Romp 2024

August 24, 2024 8:21 pm

| 4 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle people

(WSB photos by Patrick Sand)

Somehow, a side character from 1970s-1980s TV has become a 2020s phenomenon … coast to coast, dressing up like Helen Roper from TV’s “Three’s Company” and its spinoff “The Ropers” is hot. West Seattle is not immune, as a big event today proved: We counted more than 100 Helen Roper wannabes in caftans and wigs for today’s West Seattle Mrs. Roper Romp:

Their photo-op gathering this evening at Junction Plaza Park came hours into the event, which was far more than a classic pub crawl – as organizers said, they hoped the Mrs. Ropers would come to The Junction and spend the day shopping and dining too.

There was certainly enough energy and exuberance to illuminate The Junction for hours.

More than two dozen businesses offered incentives for the caftan-clad revelers to come in and spend – and we heard reports early on that some were doing exactly that:

Hours of fun followed the park photos.

Some are still out there at this hour, raising Hel..en.

ADDED: Chris, who reports one group of Mrs. Ropers visited Phoenecia, sent this photo:

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Stolen green Jeep Cherokee (update: found)

August 24, 2024 4:42 pm

| 1 COMMENT

| Crime | West Seattle news

The report and photo were sent by Danielle:

My 2000 green Jeep Cherokee was stolen between 7 pm 8/22 and 10 am 8/23. It was last parked on SW Sylvan Heights Dr near SW 27th Ave in West Seattle. WA plates CDJ 8680. We’ve filed a police report (# 24-237939) and checked the city impound but have no leads so far. Unfortunately, we haven’t been able to find anyone in the neighborhood that had camera footage of the area. There was a Cornell sticker in the back window and a stuffed Garfield in the back drivers side window, but a more permanent identifying feature is that on the drivers side the “o” had fallen off so it said “Cher kee”. She has great sentimental value to us so any potential leads would be greatly appreciated!

Call 911 if you find it.

MONDAY NIGHT UPDATE: A reader found it.

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UPDATE: Crash on Highland Park Way hill

August 24, 2024 3:38 pm

| Comments Off on UPDATE: Crash on Highland Park Way hill

| Highland Park | West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

3:38 PM: Thanks for the photos and tips. A driver went off the road toward the bottom of Highland Park Way hill. SFD has just cleared without sending a medic unit, indicating no major injuries, but we’re following up.

ADDED 10:52 PM: SFD says the 36-year-old driver was treated at the scene and did not need to be taken to the hospital, after what was “reported as a single-vehicle collision into a utility pole.”

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AS-IT-HAPPENED COVERAGE: Chilly but cheery Admiral Funktion street festival

August 24, 2024 11:36 am

| 4 COMMENTS

| West Seattle festivals | West Seattle news

11:36 AM: The Admiral Neighborhood Association wasn’t going to let a few (OK, more than a few, earlier) raindrops get in the way of this year’s Admiral Funktion street festival. It’s on right now, in the street on California SW between Admiral Way and SW College. Music starts at noon – here’s the lineup:

We’re on site at the festival – which continues until 8 pm – all day – lots of coverage to come!

12 PM: This is the place to have lunch – Admiral restaurants and bars welcome you outside or inside. Lots of specials. (Outside the festival zone, too – for example, a block south, The Good Society tells us they’ve got another smash-burger pop-up going, now until 5 pm.) And the music has begun – first up, School of Rock-West Seattle!

If you’re bringing your kid(s) to the festival, look for activities at some booths, including the Lafayette Elementary PTA:

All ages can look for festival goodies like the octopus temp tattoos from Kingtide Ink, at the ANA booth:

We’re near the Admiral Theater, between booths for two of West Seattle’s premier nonprofits. At the West Seattle Food Bank booth, you can enter their drawing for a ticket to next month’s Taste of West Seattle.

On the other side, the Log House Museum/Southwest Seattle Historical Society, where you can find out what’s new at the home of West Seattle’s history.

1:12 PM: A bit north of SWSHS, the Emergency Communications Hubs are here – they’re looking for new volunteer help with the Admiral hub, if you wat to get involved with neighborhood preparedness (check this map for YOUR nearest hub):

On the music stage, the band formerly known as Plum is just beginning their set … by announcing a new name: Slumber.

Steady stream of people here, and the National Weather Service says it’ll warm to 65 degrees.

2:14 PM: More festival freebies – go see the PCC West Seattle (WSB sponsor) booth for free snacks:

One of the major missions of Admiral Funktion is to bring together local businesses and community members. Speaking of Mission – that’s one of the local restaurants welcoming you for festival food and drink:

Admiral Pub across the street too –

And in the immediate festival vicinity, you can also check out other local faves like Arthur’s and West Wings on the west side of the block, New Leaf Bistro and Irashai on the east side. And onstage, Princess Pulpit is playing right now:

All-ages crowd!

Got a question for local police? They’re here too, at the south end of the festival zone, right by the ex-Wells Fargo corner, where we photographed Crime Prevention Coordinator Jennifer Satterwhite and Operations Lt. Nate Shopay in the early going:

3:45 PM: The summer’s busiest West Seattle band, The Potholes, are wrapping up their set:

Good crowd, too:

One of the busiest booths is the one right across from us, a sidewalk sale in front of Hosté, clothing $5 and up:

Up toward the north end of the festival zone, say hi to Julia with Honey Girl Books and Gifts – who is also an avid quilter:

Weather update – it’s drier, lighter, and a bit warmer, so if you decided not to go out earlier, might be time to reconsider!

4:48 PM: The Loveless Building has just wrapped up their set – here’s a sample:

DAD is up next at 5 pm. Speaking of “up,” the temperature’s up to 64. And in a bit of inter-neighborhood synergy, we’ve spotted a Mrs. Roper (sorry, no pic), up from The Junction (where we hope to photograph their group-pic gathering in about half an hour). This festival is on until 8 pm – most booths will be closing between 6 and 7 – so c’mon down. (And thanks to the many kind folks who’ve stopped by to say “hi” so far!)

5:31 PM: The sun has made a guest appearance!

Onstage right now, it’s DAD, doing a Nirvana cover (“In Bloom”) in our clip:

This festival is the finale to a truly event-full summer for the Admiral Neighborhood Association, after the West Seattle Fourth of July Kids’ Parade and the three-concert Admiral Music in the Parks series. Fall will bring Admiral District trick-or-treating, and the next ANA community meeting – watch connecttoadmiral.org for updates.

6 PM: Our neighboring nonprofits have departed but still lots of vendors here – and two more bands to go, starting with Novachrome.

6:40 PM: The music continues until 8, but booths are wrapping up after what’s been a fun day despite the unsummery weather! Last band up will be Secondhand Flannel at 7. Local restaurants and bars are open for dinner and beyond, too!

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SURVEY: Questions for West Seattle Farmers’ Market shoppers

August 24, 2024 10:39 am

| 3 COMMENTS

| West Seattle Farmers' Market | West Seattle news

If you shop at the West Seattle Farmers’ Market on Sundays – and/or any of its sibling markets around the city, market managers have a few questions for you! Their newest newsletter announced a survey:

The Neighborhood Farmers Markets are conducting our annual survey online this year to reach a wider audience. Your input is valuable to us! Data gathered from this survey will help NFM and the vendors who participate in our markets to better understand market shoppers and their preferences. Responses are anonymous and will not be associated with any contact information you choose to provide.

The survey will take approximately 15 minutes to complete and is available in English, Spanish, Russian, and Chinese. Please note there are a few questions for shoppers who frequent markets in specific neighborhoods. If you regularly visit one of the locations listed, please choose that market when prompted so the questions are revealed to you.

Start the survey here.

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WEST SEATTLE SATURDAY: 40 notes!

August 24, 2024 6:03 am

| Comments Off on WEST SEATTLE SATURDAY: 40 notes!

| West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

Above, that’s the newest image from the traffic cam at the scene of what will be today’s biggest event – Admiral Funktion. More on that a bit later in our list of what’s up today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

NO SSV CLOSURE: Our first major traffic note – the Spokane Street Viaduct (continuation of West Seattle Bridge between 99 and I-5) is fully open this weekend; no work because of the rain.

GARAGE/YARD SALES: See what’s listed today in the WSB Community Forums.

SATURDAY GROUP RUN: Meet at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) at 8 am for the regular Saturday morning run.

ALSO AT WEST SEATTLE RUNNER: 8 am also brings the kickoff of the Get Fit training program – walkers, new runners, all welcome, start your three-month journey to a big event!

BIG BLUE TRUCK: Fourth weekend of the Northwest Center‘s donation-dropoff truck‘s return to West Seattle! You’ll find it outside WaFd Bank (4102 California SW). Our calendar listing has info on what items the truck will accept. 9 am-5 pm.

GREAT CROSS-SOUND RACE CANCELED: Weather on the water won’t be safe for paddlers and rowers to make this annual roundtrip race from/to Alki.

DELRIDGE FARMERS’ MARKET:Your weekly Saturday opportunity to go get fresh food from growers and makers – 10 am-2 pm, the market’s fourth season offers produce, plants, condiments, prepared food, more! (9421 18th SW; WSB sponsor)

WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: You’re invited to join others taking a walk in Lincoln Park (meet at 47th/Fauntleroy), 10 am.

SSC GARDEN CENTER, WITH THE OTTER PUP: Summer gardening season isn’t over yet – even though we’re getting a taste of fall weather. Student-grown plants await you at the north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus, 10 am-3 pm. Plus: The Otter Pup is open by the center, with coffee, ice cream, and other treats!

STORY TIME AT SEOLA POND: 10 am outdoor story time with local teacher – note that we have not reconfirmed whether the weather is expected to affect this – here’s where to find the pond.

FUNDRAISING SALE: West Seattle band THEM is raising money for their first tour – with a yard sale at 30th SW/SW Webster, 10 am-6 pm.

FREE WRITING GROUP: 10:30 am in West Seattle, registration required – see full details in our calendar listing.

MORNING MUSIC: 10:30 am-noon at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), Marco de Carvalho and Friends perform. Info about Marco’s music is here.

FAMILY READING TIME: Every Saturday at 11 am at Paper Boat Booksellers (6040 California SW).

ADMIRAL FUNKTION STREET PARTY: The big day is here – and rain or shine, this street party is on, confirms the Admiral Neighborhood Association. 11 am-8 pm, come join the party on California Avenue SW between SW Admiral Way and SW College – live music (here’s the schedule), vendors and organizations (here’s the list), food and drink (your fave Admiral restaurants/bars are working on special offerings), other activities. We’ll be reporting from the Funktion again this year, so look for updates on WSB throughout the day.

BENEFIT BBQ: West Seattle Thriftway (California/Fauntleroy; WSB sponsor) is grilling Uli’s Famous Sausages hot dogs 11 am-3 pm, proceeds benefiting Seattle Humane – go get lunch!

HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK OPEN: Spraypark season continues, even under the clouds – open 11 am-8 pm, free, every day through Labor Day. (1100 SW Cloverdale)

FREE COOL TREAT FOR YOUR PUP: Again today, you’re invited to treat your dog to something tasty and free! Noon-3 pm at All the Best Pet Care (4722 Fauntleroy Way SW; WSB sponsor), bring in your dog for a free frozen treat!

POSTCARDS 4 DEMOCRACY: Noon at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), bonus weekly session of long-distance advocacy, drop-ins welcome.

COLMAN POOL: Open noon-7 pm on the Lincoln Park shore – find the session schedule online. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

LINCOLN PARK WADING POOL CLOSED: Unlike Colman Pool, the wading pool is weather-dependent, and it won’t open today since the required 70-degree sunshine is NOT in the forecast.

SOUTHWEST POOL CLOSED: The city-run indoor pool will stay closed for repairs and maintenance until after Labor Day.

BURGER POP-UP: While you’re at the Admiral festival, wander south a bit, where The Good Society (California/Lander) has another smash-burger pop-up noon-5 pm (plus the official Funktion beer).

LOG HOUSE MUSEUM OPEN: The home of West Seattle history is open for your visit, noon-4 pm. (61st/Stevens)

VIETNAMESE CULTURAL CENTER OPEN: The center is open to visitors noon-3 pm, as explained here. (2236 SW Orchard)

VISCON CELLARS TASTING ROOM/WINE BAR: Tasting room open – wine by the glass or bottle – 1-6 pm at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor).

NORTHWEST WINE ACADEMY TASTING ROOM/WINE BAR: The tasting room/wine bar is open 1-6 pm with student-produced wines and “affordable eats” at the north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus.

ART MARKET AND SMASH BROS. TOURNAMENT: Double event at Burger Planet (9614 14th SW in White Center) – shop from 3-5, play from 5-7, burger purchase gets you a free tournament entry ($5 otherwise). Grand prize awaits tournament winner!

NEPENTHE’S WALK-IN MASSAGE CLINIC: 3-5 pm, show up at Nepenthe (9447 35th SW) with a specific problem to be addressed by massage, and you’ll get a free (gratuities appreciated) trial of their work.

WEST SEATTLE MRS. ROPER ROMP: Join the Helens! Get into your caftan and wig and hang out with West Seattle’s Mrs. Ropers. This is now set up to be an all-day event – with a group-photo gathering at Junction Plaza Park (42nd/Alaska) at 5:30 pm – and a variety of local businesses offering discounts and specials for COSTUMED participants dining and/or shopping starting as early as brunch – mapped here, with more details in these three graphics (here, here, here). UPDATE: Those three links were from the organizers’ page early today, but one business contacted us with an update: No all-day happy hour at Matador but they do have a special – “$10 California Ave Hawaiian Cocktail.”

POURING WEST SEATTLE: Multiple West Seattle wineries all pouring for you under one roof, 4-7 pm at Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) – get your ticket online so it doesn’t sell out before you get there!

SALSA AND BACHATA ON ALKI: 4:30 pm lesson, 5:30 pm dancing, buy your wristband when you get there – look for the dance floor by Alki Statue of Liberty (61st/Alki).

CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND ART OF WALLY SHOUP: Doors 6:30, music 7 at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW) – details in our calendar listing. $10.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: Paul Gerard at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm, no cover, all ages.

ALL-AGES OPEN MIC: 7-10 pm at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way)

LIVE AT THE SKYLARK: “A jam-packed night of music with the proceeds generously being donated to the Skylark’s relocation fund! Carl Christensen and the Lake Flora Band, Hayward Sun, Rae, and Bird Bones, plus a silent auction. At, of course, The Skylark tonight, 7 pm doors, 8 pm music, $10-$20. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

LIVE MUSIC AT SPRUCE HILL WINERY: Amelia Day performs, 7:30 pm. Reservations required – contact info is in our calendar listing. (2960 4th Ave S., SODO; WSB sponsor)

REVELRY ROOM DJ: 9 pm, DJ Shonuph. (4547 California SW)

JARAY’S DJ: 9 pm, DJ Buzsy at Jaray’s Lounge (2216 SW Orchard).

KARAOKE AT THE PIZZERIA: Saturday nights, you can sing at Talarico’s Pizzeria (4718 California SW), starting at 10 pm.

West Seattle event coming up? If the community’s welcome, your event belongs on our calendar! Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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Opening weekend for musical co-written by West Seattleite

August 23, 2024 11:29 pm

| Comments Off on Opening weekend for musical co-written by West Seattleite

| Not WS but we're mentioning it anyway | West Seattle people | WS culture/arts

Tonight was opening night for “Come On, Get Tappy!”, a new musical that’s been 20 years in the making, co-written by West Seattle resident Stacie Hart (photo at right). The musical is playing at SecondStory Repertory in Redmond. Hart, a longtime theater artist, worked with creative partner Harry Turpin to bring it to life. The theater’s announcement of the production says it “promises a delightful blend of humor, music, and dance,” elaborating:

“Come On, Get Tappy!” follows Tappy McCrackin, the pint-sized star of the “Tappy McCrackin Variety Hour,” as she fights off the bad guys on the night of the show’s 25th-anniversary broadcast. Aptly described as ”Annie meets Carol Burnett meets Scooby-Doo,” this campy, family-friendly production is poised to captivate audiences of all ages. Vibrant sets, crackling comedic dialogue, lots of sequins, and big dance numbers will make it a truly unforgettable spectacle that’s great for kids and adults. Plus, the team has some surprises in store that will make the show feel truly immersive. The “Come On, Get Tappy!” experience will be luxe, and it will begin as soon as theatergoers enter the lobby, before they’re in their seats.

The announcement quotes Hart as saying, “We’ve worked on this show through life, marriage, kids, a pandemic, and more – and it’s held together. It is stronger than ever and I can’t wait to see it come to life.” The backstory from the musical’s origins to this premiere run is here, dating all the way back to an offhand joke and a made-up nickname. A spokesperson for the production notes that these aren’t easy times for original theater, so “it’s nothing short of a miracle that this show has found funding, is fully orchestrated, and is currently being produced with an all-star cast of respected theatre artists in our area.” The musical has 16 more performances at SecondStory Repertory, including weekend matinees; tickets and showtimes are here. (The theater is at Redmond Town Center, 7325 166th NE in Redmond.)

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‘Long conversation’ about one Fauntleroy Creek culvert’s future finally ends with city-church agreement

August 23, 2024 7:23 pm

| 12 COMMENTS

| Environment | Fauntleroy | West Seattle news | Wildlife

(Graphic courtesy Judy Pickens, showing culvert’s route, schoolhouse at left, church at right)

By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor

Two culverts carrying salmon-bearing Fauntleroy Creek underground below two streets must be replaced and widened. That’s long been known. But a behind-the-scenes part of the story has just come to light.

One of the replacement plans, for the section beneath 45th SW, has not been particularly controversial – it’s in city right-of-way and the planning is under way after the “restart” about which we reported back in March.

The other is an entirely different story – one that has just closed the book on a difficult chapter.

Fauntleroy Church and the City of Seattle have reached agreement on how to deal with the other section of culvert, which carries the creek under California SW and the church parking lot – a 130-foot city culvert, almost a third of which extends under the church parking lot [vicinity map], where it joins a 230-foot church-installed culvert. At one point in this “long conversation,” as Fauntleroy Church senior pastor Leah Atkinson-Bilinski describes it, there was the possibility that the church would face a giant price tag for the culvert project – potentially $7 million – a sum that would have bankrupted the church.

(WSB photo, exploratory drilling in 2020)

That was the state of things in 2019. Then in 2020, the church says, a city contractor doing geotechnical boring “inaccurately locate(d) the culvert and punche(d) two holes in it.” That took the situation to a different level, with the church pursuing city commitments regarding responsibility for the resulting damage, and the need to replace the 70+-year-old culvert. The conversation came to “dead ends, where it felt like we couldn’t move forward,” the pastor said. Eventually, the church felt compelled to file a lawsuit against the city, and did so last year (but did not serve it).

As the result of that, the church and city have struck a deal – recently signed by both parties – under which the church will deed part of its land to the city, enough for construction of the new city/church culvert. How much, nobody knows until the new culvert is designed. The agreement includes stipulations to protect the church’s future, such as protecting the garden outside its basement-level preschool space and a certain number of ADA parking spaces, plus the fire lane. And as part of the deal, the city is relieved of liability for damaging the church’s current culvert. And there is a provision to ensure the city would be compensated for the investment of public funds, should the church site be sold to a for-profit buyer within the next quarter-century.

Many, but not all, details of the culvert replacement itself will be guided by state and federal requirements. Rev. Atkinson-Bilinski says that ideally the deal would have given the church a bit more say in the future plan, but it does guarantee they’ll be consulted as “important partners” and that their ideas “will be considered.” When the time comes, she adds, it will be very important for community voices to weigh in on prospective designs – not just what happens in the culvert itself, but the project features above-ground.

Just getting to this point, though, is a victory, church leaders reiterate. This all dates back to the original construction of the culvert – at a time when nobody considered looking far into the future to imagine a time when restoration of salmon habitat would be important, and possible. The city first looked at culvert replacements in 2001, but shelved the idea, which resurfaced after a partial blockage hit the 45th SW culvert in 2015. (That culvert also had a clog last year.) In 2019, design concepts were presented by the city, and that’s when the church learned it could face a multi-million-dollar expense.

(2021 reader photo, salmon in Fauntleroy Creek)

Judy Pickens, who has been involved for decades with bringing Fauntleroy Creek back to life as a salmon-bearing stream, co-chaired the church’s committee dealing with the culvert issue. She says it’s important to note that reaching the agreement doesn’t just settle the stalemate between the church and city, but also means the church is “walking its talk” regarding respect for tribal fishing rights. In addition to legal requirements, a church background document explains, “as a congregation we have accepted a moral responsibility to steward the land and water that were taken from Coast Salish peoples.”

This section of culvert has been completely underground since the early 1950s. At some point before that, there was a trestle bridge over California, the church says. Mobility was a motivation when the project was planned back in the ’50s; in addition to the ecosystem, safety is a key concern now. Four preschools are in the area, and one side of California holds one of them plus the church and the Fauntleroy YMCA (WSB sponsor), while the other side holds historic Fauntleroy Schoolhouse, home to other schools, multiple small businesses, and a popular event venue, The Hall at Fauntleroy. Once a year, the Fauntleroy Fall Festival spans all of those venues, with a huge all-ages throng visiting for the afternoon.

Will the future expanded culvert bring salmon back to the upper reaches of Fauntleroy Creek, steeper than many such streams? “The potential is there … they’ve surprised us before,” Pickens says, while tempering her optimism.

“If you build it, they will come. Hopefully!” adds pastor Atkinson-Bilinski.

But for now, some relief that they know a multimillion-dollar culvert repair isn’t looming over the church. “We’re just gratified,” says church board chair Greg Dirks, “and looking forward to partnership with the city and community.”

Watch for more on how you can get involved, via the Seattle Public Utilities project page.

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FYI: West Seattle YMCA Bumbershoot ticket giveaway

August 23, 2024 5:36 pm

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| Triangle | West Seattle news

An announcement from the West Seattle YMCA (longtime WSB sponsor):

West Seattle Y members who have received postcards for Aquarium tickets will now be eligible for tickets to Bumbershoot Arts and Musical Festival. Aquarium tickets are no longer available due to high demand, and Bumbershoot tickets will be distributed on a first-come first-serve basis.

Come into the West Seattle Y by Sunday the 25th to inquire about the tickets and your eligibility!

The WS Y branch is at 36th/Snoqualmie in The Triangle.

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CANCELED: 2024 Great Cross-Sound Race

August 23, 2024 4:03 pm

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| West Seattle news | West Seattle weather

(WSB file photo)

As we continue to check on West Seattle’s big weekend events given the not-very-summery forecast, we’ve found one cancellation. For the second consecutive year, Sound Rowers and Paddlers have called off the Great Cross-Sound Race, which was scheduled for tomorrow (Saturday) morning, roundtrip from Alki to south Bainbridge Island. This year, stormy weather is the problem (the National Weather Service has a Small Craft Advisory in effect until 2 pm tomorrow); last year, it was wildfire smoke.

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UPDATE: Crash blocking lanes on eastbound West Seattle Bridge, now cleared

August 23, 2024 3:48 pm

| 1 COMMENT

| West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

3:48 PM: Yet another crash of note on this rainy day – this one blocking all but one lane on the eastbound high bridge, so if you have to head that way, wait a while. No serious injuries reported.

3:57 PM: That cleared quickly – all lanes reopened.

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UPDATE: Another ‘rescue extrication’ callout, this time for car-on-side Arbor Heights crash

August 23, 2024 2:09 pm

| 7 COMMENTS

| Arbor Heights | West Seattle news | WS breaking news

2:09 PM: Seattle Fire is headed to another “rescue extrication” callout, this one for the 10200 block of 32nd SW [map] in Arbor Heights, where a one-vehicle car-on-side crash is reported, with at least one person trapped. Updates to come.

2:19 PM: That person is reported to now be safely out of the vehicle (a Honda CR-V). They’re dismissing all but three units.

2:29 PM: Added photo from our crew. No serious injuries reported.

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WEEKEND PREVIEW: These two Saturday events are on, rain or shine!

August 23, 2024 1:14 pm

| Comments Off on WEEKEND PREVIEW: These two Saturday events are on, rain or shine!

| West Seattle festivals | West Seattle news

With today’s rain and tomorrow’s mixed forecast, we checked in with organizers of two of Saturday’s notable events – and both say they’re still on, rain or shine:

ADMIRAL FUNKTION: With the current forecast for Saturday suggesting things will get better in the afternoon, organizers of this street festival – scheduled for 11 am-8 pm on California SW between Admiral Way and SW College – are optimistic. Dan Jacobs from the Admiral Neighborhood Association, which is presenting Admiral Funktion, sent an update to festival participants (us included) saying in part, “Just so you know how optimistic I am … I bought a bunch of sunglasses for ANA swag to give out at our booth tomorrow. The stage area is covered … much of the restaurants’ outdoor seating will be covered, and we are planning for the rain to get on out of here in time for everyone to really enjoy most of the day.” From our earlier previews, the music lineup is here; the vendor lineup is here; food vendors are the ones already lining the festival zone.

WEST SEATTLE ROPER ROMP: One month ago, the caftan-clad Helen Roper aspirants wowed crowds and won an award at the West Seattle Grand Parade:

Tomorrow, everyone’s invited to join them – BYO caftan/wig/etc. – for this year’s West Seattle Mrs. Roper Romp. Organizers tell us it’s definitely on, whatever the weather. The only really time-specific activity is a group-photo gathering at Junction Plaza Park at 5:30 pm – but organizers have roped a variety of local businesses into offering discounts and specials for COSTUMED participants dining and/or shopping starting as early as brunch – mapped here, with more details in these three graphics (here, here, here).

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UPDATE: ‘Rescue extrication’ callout for Junction crash; quickly downsized

August 23, 2024 12:03 pm

| 2 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | WS breaking news

12:03 PM: Seattle Fire has a “rescue extrication” response headed for 40th/Alaska. … SFD says it’s a two-car collision with one person reported trapped. Updates to come.

12:08 PM: SFD and SPD say everyone’s out safely so they are reducing the response to just one unit.

12:13 PM: Added photo from our crew. In the eastbound outside lane of SW Alaska by B of A/Whole Foods. No injuries reported.

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WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Stolen scooter; pickup break-in

August 23, 2024 11:22 am

| 5 COMMENTS

| Crime | West Seattle news

Two reader reports in West Seattle Crime Watch:

STOLEN SCOOTER: Reported by Ryan:

My wife’s scooter was stolen overnight from the 6500 block of 34th Ave SW, near the corner of 34th & Morgan. It’s a 2021 Lance Havana Classic 50, license plate 7G0223. I’m hoping to get the word out so we might recover it. Footage from my neighbor’s camera attached:

No police report # yet but call 911 if you find the scooter.

PICKUP BREAK-IN: Reported by Danielle:

Sometime during the night on 8/22 into the early morning of 8/23, our truck was broken into on 46th Ave SW between Findlay and Juneau. The prowlers just took a gym bag that was in the back seat. Yes, it was a mistake to leave the bag in the back seat but it was a very long day. We are hoping the prowler will ultimately dump the gym bag once they realize there is nothing of value in the gym bag to them but we would most certainly love the gym bag back. If the gym bag is spotted, please let us know. There is some gym clothes, jump rope, white NoBull trainer shoes, and other miscellaneous gym training gear in the bag. The gym bag is a black New Haven backpack.

A police report will also be filed today.

Pending that, if you happen to find any of those items dumped, let us know and we’ll connect you.

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The list for your West Seattle Friday (updated!)

August 23, 2024 10:03 am

| 2 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Late-summer flower photographed by Jim Clark this week in Arbor Heights)

Here’s our Friday highlight list, mostly indoors and mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

SSC GARDEN CENTER: Rain or shine, plants await you at the north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus, 10 am until 3 pm. Plus, until 2:30 pm, while you’re there, you can visit The Otter Pup for coffee, ice cream, and other treats!

HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK: Open 11 am-8 pm. Free! (1100 SW Cloverdale)

WADING POOLS: Closed again today citywide because of the cloudy/cooler weather.

COLMAN POOL: You can swim today in the outdoor heated-salt-water pool on the shore at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW), noon-7 pm – session times are on the Colman Pool webpage.

SOUTHWEST POOL: Still closed for maintenance/repairs.

NORTHWEST WINE ACADEMY TASTING ROOM: 1-6 pm, open in the north lot of South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor).

VISCON CELLARS: The tasting room/wine bar is open for wine by the glass or bottle – 5-9 pm – at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor).

MUSIC AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: Singer-songwriter Jim Page at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm.

(added) LIVE AT EASY STREET RECORDS: Free album-release show and signing by Enumclaw for “Home in Another Life,” 7 pm, all ages. (4559 California SW)

AT THE SPOT: Fridays are Live Artist Showcase nights at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way), 7-10 pm.

SUMMER SOUND BATH: Indoors tonight – 7:30 pm at Move2Center (3618 SW Alaska), $38 – tickets and info here.

AT THE SKYLARK: 8 pm, Rhythm & Rhymes presents: Operation Save Skylark with Tomi Jo, Juá, Lexi Lalauni, Imon, $12 cover, all ages. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

REVELRY ROOM DJ: 9 pm, DJ Peg! (4547 California SW)

JARAY’S DJ: 9 pm, DJ Buzsy at Jaray’s Lounge (2216 SW Orchard).

YOU SKATE, THEY PLAY: Rat City Recon presents “Make It Loud!” at Southgate Roller Rink (9646 17th SW), roller skating to live bands, tonight featuring Weep Wave, Sulk, ManWoMan. 9 pm. $18 cover, $5 skate.

What are we missing? If you have something else to add to our event lists and calendar, please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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Memorial service Monday for James Garth Wheeler, 1936-2024

August 23, 2024 9:13 am

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| Obituaries | West Seattle news

Family and friends will gather Monday (August 26) to remember Garth Wheeler, and are sharing this remembrance with the community now:

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James Garth Wheeler in the early morning hours of August 17, 2024. Garth died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Woodinville, on property he purchased in the early 1970s, and on which he built both his family home as well as his retirement home. Garth was 88 years old.

James Garth Wheeler, known as Garth, was born on May 17, 1936 to Wallace (Bud) and Elsie K. (Midge) Wheeler in Tacoma. Garth, who was the oldest of three children, had two younger sisters, Karen and Judy Ann. Garth grew up in Eastern Washington and attended high school in Richland, Washington. After graduating as a Richland Bomber in 1955, Garth joined the Navy where he became a ship’s purser and served on the USS Lyman K. Swenson. Garth enjoyed various deployments throughout the Pacific while in the Navy, and was also stationed in San Diego and San Francisco, California. His purser days instilled the love of accounting that Garth pursued as his career for most of his life. Following four years in the Navy, Garth attended Eastern Washington University and graduated from the University of Washington with an undergraduate degree in accounting in 1962.

After graduating, Garth joined the public accounting firm of Touche, Ross, Bailey & Smart, and earned his public accounting certification in his first year, placing first in his test class. Garth spent ten years as a practicing CPA with Touche Ross before joining Lynden Transport Inc. as controller, moving his family from Bellevue, Washington up north to Lynden, Washington, near the border with Canada. After two years with Lynden Transport, Garth accepted a partnership role with Clark, Nuber & Co. in Bellevue, Washington, and relocated his family to Woodinville to live on three acres of property he purchased a few years prior. Garth continued to pursue financial-related positions of responsibility throughout his career, including with Howard Schultz and as head of finance and administration at Forest Ridge High School. Garth enjoyed not only financial work, but also spending time teaching and mentoring hundreds of people he worked with throughout his career. He eventually hung up his calculator after 50 years in the professional world.

In 1960, Garth met the love of his life, Roberta Ruth Beck, while attending Eastern Washington University. Roberta was born in 1941 and raised in Spokane, where she attended Rogers High School, graduating in 1959. Garth and Roberta began dating while attending Eastern and both transferred to the University of Washington two years later. The happy couple was married on December 17, 1961 in Spokane. Garth and Roberta raised a large, loving family of five children; Jay, Scott, Laurie, Sherry and Craig. They became grandparents in 1994 and at last count enjoyed 15 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

Garth lived and exemplified his Christian faith throughout his life. He dearly loved and was deeply committed to his wife and family. Garth was known for his calm demeanor, quick wit, and his ability to make everyone feel comfortable and accepted. Garth loved trains. Rumor has it that when Garth found out that Roberta’s dad was a railroad engineer, his decision to marry Roberta was finalized. Garth loved the University of Washington Huskies, the Seattle Seahawks, and the Seattle Mariners, but only if they were winning. His other true love was reading and working puzzles. Garth was the ultimate handyman throughout his life, building a significant portion of the family home with the help of his two oldest sons. He loved construction projects, remodeling, and repair work – but mostly when it involved working with one of his children or helping out relatives or friends. Garth was always willing to help and brought his loving personality and quick wit to everything he did.

Garth is survived by his wife, Roberta, sister Karen, sons Scott and Craig, and daughters Laurie and Sherry. Garth was preceded in death by his Father and Mother, Sister Judy Ann, and oldest son Jay.

A memorial service for Garth will be held at 10:00 am on Monday, August 26, 2024 at West Side Presbyterian Church, located at 3601 California Avenue SW in West Seattle.

Please share condolences, photos, & memories of Garth on the Tribute Wall at emmickfunerals.com/obituary/Garth-Wheeler

Arrangements Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home of West Seattle

(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: Friday + weekend info

August 23, 2024 6:01 am

| 4 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:01 AM: Good morning! It’s Friday, August 23.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Showery, possible thunderstorm in the pm, breezy, high in low 60s. Today’s sunrise will be at 6:16 am, while sunset will be at 8:05 pm.

SPOKANE ST. VIADUCT AND OTHER ROAD WORK

*Rainy forecast means NO WORK, NO CLOSURES tonight and this weekend for the Spokane Street Viaduct resurfacing project.

*The Admiral Way Bridge seismic project is in progress. Fairmount Avenue is closed under the bridge. Starting next week, the north half of the bridge will close, so the south half will carry traffic both ways temporarily. (That’s what the “Traffic Revision August 26” portable signs are about.)

*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.

*Beach Drive: Gas-pipeline work continues at spots along the southern stretch. Watch for no-parking zones and steel plates (many on northbound side right now), plus flaggers.

TRANSIT NOTES

Water Taxi today – Regular schedule for both routes. Friday night, so it runs later.

Metro buses today – Regular schedules; check for advisories here.

Washington State Ferries today – 2 boats on the Triangle Route, and the unscheduled third boat may be available. Check that link before you sail.

STREET CLOSURE PLANNED SATURDAY

The Admiral Funktion festival on Saturday (August 24) will close California between Admiral and College from morning through evening. If rain changes the plan, we’ll update on WSB.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

High Bridge – Here’s the main camera:

High Bridge – The Fauntleroy-end camera:

Spokane Street Viaduct – This view 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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