West Seattle, Washington
14 Thursday
After next year’s election, the seven district-elected City Councilmembers will be representing areas with new boundaries. What those district boundaries will be has yet to be finalized – and relatively late in the process – with less than two weeks until a final vote – there are new suggestions, with your feedback requested. Here’s the news release (and a reminder, District 1 is the one that includes West Seattle):
The Seattle Redistricting Commission continues its process of examining how to redraw the boundaries of Seattle’s seven City Council Districts and is inviting community members to offer feedback on four distinct maps. Members of the public can review and provide input on the maps at seattle.gov/redistricting/how-to-participate.
During the regularly scheduled Seattle Redistricting Commission meeting on October 25, the Commission discussed various revisions to the official Amended Draft Map that was adopted on October 18, 2022. These revisions are presented as Discussion Maps below.
Commissioner Nickels proposed a Discussion Map that:
Uses I-5 as the primary boundary for Districts 1 and 2.
Keeps Pioneer Square and West Seattle whole in District 1.
Keeps Chinatown International District and Beacon Hill whole in District 2.
Keeps Central District whole in District 3.
Uses I-5 as the boundary for Districts 5 and 6.
Keeps Magnolia whole and together with Queen Anne in District 7.
Keeps Eastlake and Fremont whole in District 4.
Keeps Lake City and Northgate whole in District 5.
Keeps Ballard whole in District 6.Commissioner Juarez proposed a Discussion Map that:
Extends the south end of District 6 and District 7 boundary along 28th Ave W from W McGraw St to W Howe St. This removes the quickly turning boundary that followed W McGraw St, Condon Way W, and 30th Ave W before meeting with W Howe St.
Commissioner O’Sullivan is sponsoring a Discussion Map submitted by a community member that:
Moves the area of Magnolia west of 15th Ave W and down to the Magnolia Bridge to District 6.
Moves the area between Aurora Ave N and Stone Way N, between NE 50th St and Lake Union, to District 6.
Moves all of Eastlake to District 7.
Moves all the blocks in First Hill bounded by I-5, Boren Ave, and James St to District 7.
Moves the University of Washington to District 3.
Moves all Green Lake and Meridian east of Aurora Ave N, south of NE 85th St, west of I-5, and north of NE 50th St, to District 4.
Keeps Districts 1, 2, and 5 unchanged.Members of the public are invited to submit public comment on these proposed adjustments. The Seattle Redistricting Commission plans to vote on a final map at their meeting on Tuesday, November 8. The public comment period will remain open until the Commission files the final district plan on or before November 15, 2022.
Make a public comment
-In-person or online at the Seattle Redistricting Commission special meeting on Monday, October 31 from 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Meeting will be held at Seattle City Hall, Room L280, 600 4th Avenue. Public can also participate online.
-In writing using the Seattle Redistricting Commission’s public comment submission form.
Whichever maps are finalized, those will be the new district boundaries starting with the 2023 elections.
10:53 AM: The report and photo are from Ian:
FYI for riders: Someone scattered a bunch of screws along the bike path/sidewalk between T-18 and Marginal. I kicked as many as I could aside but just kept finding more and more…
Ian reported this to the city via Find It Fix It. We also advised contacting SDOT directly by phone – 206-684-ROAD – as it’s an immediate safety hazard.
5:07 PM: Just after noon, Grant Slatton tweeted this photo and update (and has given us permission to repost):
I am down here now dragging around a giant magnet. Also found some on the low bridge bike path.
(Seen in a Gatewood rockery, a pumpkin-zilla nicknamed Gordon)
Here’s our daily reminder list about what’s up in West Seattle for the rest of your Friday. First, from the WSB West Seattle Halloween Guide:
PRESCHOOLER TRICK-OR-TREAT: Preschoolers’ Trick-or-Treating at Holy Rosary School, all kids 5 and under welcome. 1-2:30 pm. (42nd/Genesee)
ADMIRAL BUSINESSES TRICK-OR-TREAT: The Admiral District presents business trick-or-treating, 3-6 pm. (Look for businesses with signs indicating they’re participating – around but not limited to California/Admiral.)
GLOW PARTY: Free event at Delridge Community Center (4501 Delridge Way SW), 6-8 pm. “Join the Delridge Community Center for our famous glow-in-the-dark party! Enjoy our themed games, bounce houses, candy, and music. Wear your costume, face paint, or anything that will illuminate the party.”
LIGHT SHOW: Halloween light show at West Seattle Yuletide, 6-9:30 pm nightly, 38th SW between Dakota and Genesee.
BINGO & COSTUME CONTEST #1: Halloween bingo and costume-contest fundraiser for Stephanie’s Lifeline, 6-10 pm at The Blu Grouse (9839 17th SW).
SPOOKY SHOW: Nightfall Orphanage, spooky experience at 4544 51st Place SW, 7-10 pm each night (extended hours Halloween). No admission charge, but charity donations requested. Details here.
BINGO & COSTUME CONTEST #2: Halloween Bingo and Costume Contest at Admiral Pub (2306 California SW), 7 pm. Free to play – prizes! Contact the pub to reserve a table in advance.
WEST END GHOULS: “Drag spooktacular” at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW), 8 pm. $13 advance tickets/$15 at the door. All ages.
‘ALCHYMIA’: The Cabiri present Alchymia, a theatrical aerial-dance performance. 8 pm, Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW). Tickets here.
And from our year-round West Seattle Event Calendar:
SOUTHWEST ART SHOWCASE: Last weekend to see the community show at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW), which is open 10 am-6 pm today.
DROP-IN OPEN PLAY: Now through 11:30 am, weekly drop-in open play for little ones at Arbor Heights Community Church (4113 SW 102nd).
OFFICE HOURS WITH COUNCILMEMBER HERBOLD: 2-6 pm in-person “office hours” with City Councilmember Lisa Herbold – advance appointment required.
MUSIC AT C & P: 7-9 pm, the 4-piece band MAD Cutaways takes the stage at C & P Coffee Company (5612 California SW), free, all ages.
LIVE AT EASY STREET: 7 pm in-store performance by Beautiful Freaks at Easy Street Records (California/Alaska).
Something for our calendar (or a last-minute addition for our Halloween Guide)? Please email westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
Family and friends will gather November 4 to remember Terry M. Gangnes. They’re sharing this remembrance with the community:
Terry M. Gangnes, 75, passed away peacefully at home on September 22, 2022.
Born to Arnold and Ila Gangnes in Seattle, Terry grew up in West Seattle and graduated from WSHS in 1965. He attended Olympic Junior College, where he competed on the schools’ gymnastics team. In 1968, Terry joined the Navy, where he served as an air traffic controller at Glenview Naval Air Station in Great Lakes, Illinois. Following his service, Terry moved back to Seattle with his then-wife and newborn daughter. He worked for United Parcel Service (UPS) as a driver for 31 years, serving the downtown Burien business district. Terry was inducted into the UPS Circle of Honor for having a 30-year safe driving record. He retired from UPS in 2001.
Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Ila; sister Judy; and beloved four-legged companion Bogey. He is survived by his two children, Danielle (Megan), Tyler (Kaydee), and their mother Patty; his four grandchildren, Kya, Avery, Lola, and Harper; his two brothers, Ronald (Randy) and Rich (Janet); nieces Chani and Kamiana and nephew, Andrew.
Terry was an avid golfer, skier, fisherman, and Seahawks fan. He enjoyed gardening, bowling, hydroplane races, and photography. Terry was a 25+-year member of Maplewood Golf Course Men’s Club and served as a course marshal in retirement. He was honored with the club’s 2019 Hall of Fame award for his many years of participation and success in the club’s events, an award he was truly proud of. Terry was a member of Sahalie Ski Club since 1962, where he met many lifelong friends and enjoyed countless weekends skiing and socializing in true Sahalie fashion. He loved salmon fishing every summer in areas throughout Washington. A diehard Seahawks fan and season ticket holder since day one in 1976, Terry enjoyed attending games with family and friends. He will be greatly missed by many.
A celebration of Terry’s life will be held at Maplewood Golf Course in Renton on November 4th, 2022 at 1 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made in the form of a donation in Terry’s name to the ASPCA or Special Olympics.
(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)
6:00 AM: Good morning. It’s Friday, October 28th, the first of four days full of Halloween events.
WEATHER
Some rain, some sun, high in the 50s.
TRAFFIC NOTES
–Halloween: Trick-or-treating at businesses in The Admiral District 3-6 pm today … Street closures and bus reroutes Sunday for West Seattle Harvest Fest and the Farmers’ Market in The Junction – California between Oregon and Edmunds, Alaska between 42nd and 44th
–Two continuing closures: The outer southbound lane on West Marginal Way between 17th SW and the Duwamish Longhouse … The east end of Sylvan Way.
–Weekend road work: SDOT has a project starting this weekend for Corson/Michigan/Bailey in Georgetown – here’s the notice.
TRANSIT STATUS
–Metro buses are on their regular schedules; watch @kcmetroalerts for trip cancellations/reroute alerts.
-Still a 2-boat schedule for WSF’s Triangle Route (check here for alerts/updates).
-The West Seattle Water Taxi is on its fall/winter schedule (still daily, all dayparts, but no late Friday/Saturday runs).
SPOTLIGHT CAMERAS
High Bridge – here’s the camera at the top.
High Bridge – the view from its southwest end (if SDOT points the 35th/Avalon/Fauntleroy camera that way).
Low Bridge: Open to all.
1st Ave. S. Bridge: The alternate route.
Highway 99: Here’s the northbound side at Lander.
All functional city traffic cams can be seen here, most with video options; West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras are also on this WSB page … Are movable city bridges opening for vessels? Check the @SDOTBridges Twitter feed.
If you see trouble on the roads/paths/water, please text or call us (when you can do so safely) – 206-293-6302.
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
With SDOT director Greg Spotts canceling his appearance, most of HPAC‘s monthly meeting Wednesday night focused on the “natural drainage” project newly surfaced for part of SW Holden in Highland Park.
It’s a Seattle Public Utilities project that we first heard about when SPU sent us a notice 26 hours before the meeting. We wrote about it a few hours later.
This is far from the first “natural drainage” project in West Seattle; others planned and built by both city and county agencies over the past decade have gone by names including “green stormwater infrastructure” (2011), “bioswales” (2012), and “roadside raingardens” (2014). This time, the “natural drainage” features are proposed for the south side of SW Holden between 16th and 17th, plus the east side of a half-block of 17th south of Holden.
So why that particular section of street? we asked when the meeting got to Q&A. The SPU team in attendance had started their presentation with some generalities about Longfellow Creek pollution and this area being part of the creek’s watershed. Salmon in Longfellow Creek die before spawning at a higher rate than any other creek in the city, they said. So their goal is to “naturally” filter rainwater before it gets to the street and carries vehicle-related toxins into the creek. But no specifics about why this specific block, until they answered our question: SDOT approached SPU about “doing a project” there. SDOT says the street is too wide for its classification as a “residential” street, so there’s room for it. The SPU team said that as part of the project, the curb on the south side of the street would be “bumped out” five feet.
They said the project wasn’t expected to extend further west because of “obstacles” including a gas pipeline. How much street parking would be lost? Kuo insisted they didn’t know yet, since design doesn’t start in earnest until early next year. Before then, they want feedback, she said, so that’s why they went to HPAC.
In addition to the extended curb, they revealed a few more aspects of the project plan. SPU will maintain the project area, they said, adding that they in fact “prefer that (residents) NOT” try to do maintenance. The project will be built north of the existing sidewalk; none of that will be replaced unless there’s damage during the construction process. Some street trees will be removed, but they don’t have a count yet, and they noted the city’s policy of requiring two trees to be planted for every tree removed. (Not necessarily in the same area, though.)
One point of concern in the project zone is the city-owned ex-substation on the southwest corner of 16th/Holden. Despite much discussion in recent years, its future has yet to be determined. An attendee voiced fear that any work at that corner would be torn out when the site is finally redeveloped.
The project team also heard a complaint that this was just becoming public now, when it obviously has been planned for a while (though construction isn’t expected until 2024 or 2025). They said they’re doing what they can to inform everyone now, from doorknocking to mailing a flyer. The project website is here and includes contact information for Kuo, if you have feedback.
ALSO AT HPAC’S MEETING: A few quick notes – gratitude for Seattle Parks‘ recent trail refresh at Riverview Playfield and SDOT’s revision of its south-side sidewalk; the Trick or Trees event with something for everyone (details here) on Saturday afternoon; and an artist selection for the Highland Park Way/Holden intersection improvements’ public-art installation – the art will be a “gigantic Steller’s Jay.” (We’re following up to find out more.) Also, HPAC had a visitor from the Fauntleroy Community Association, continuing to solicit other West Seattle community organizations’ support for its opposition to expanding the ferry dock when it’s rebuilt.
NEXT MEETING: Watch hpacws.org for updates.
(SDOT image via Twitter, Saturday morning)
After that bus hit a barrier on the westbound West Seattle Bridge near the ramp from southbound 99 on Saturday morning, it was attributed to the driver swerving to avoid another vehicle. But it wasn’t the only crash that day in the same spot – and it was followed by at least two others days later. In comment discussions, other drivers have mentioned something seemed awry when they drove through that same section. So we asked SDOT if the department planned to investigate. We heard back late today from SDOT spokesperson Ethan Bergerson, who said it’s a mystery so far:
After these crashes occurred, we sent one of our inspectors to take a closer look at roadway conditions in this location. They verified that all of the signage, road markings, and pavement was in good condition. Our inspector did not see any standing water in this location, although it is possible that it was wetter at the time of the incidents. We did not make any changes to the road in this location during the West Seattle Bridge closure which would alter how people approach or drive over this particular spot.
While it’s difficult for us to determine a specific cause for this series of collisions, now that this trend has been identified we’ll be aware of the location if we see similar crashes in the future. If we do see an ongoing trend, we’ll continue to consider what we can potentially do to address it.
We also typically see an increase in crashes in rainy weather, especially when it first starts to rain after a relatively dry summer. So we would like to remind all drivers at this time of year to slow down and be extra cautious when driving in the rain, and to make sure to take care of any safety-related car maintenance issues like replacing worn-out tires or windshield wipers.
If you encounter a specific problem there (or on any other city street, which is what The Bridge is) and want to contact SDOT about it, they’re at 206-684-ROAD.
Two more one-of-a-kind West Seattle Halloween displays:
This one is a sight to see by day and by night, on 47th SW between Hinds and Hanford:
Both Ron and Kylie sent photos of this display. Kylie says, “This house is fantastic. … Check it out, the details are incredible.”
Another home to see if you like jack o’lanterns:
Jason sent the video of the first 50 pumpkins he carved this Halloween season – going for an “epic” total of 100! You can see them at 52nd and (corrected) Dakota.
P.S. Even more events – from trick-or-treating to a “GLOW Party” to The Skylark’s famous “Come As You Aren’t” – have just been added to our West Seattle Halloween Guide; don’t miss out on the fun!
Four updates from West Seattle purveyors of beverages and/or food:
ANIMATED CAFE MOVING: Tomorrow is the coffee trailer’s last day in the Tony’s Market lot at 35th/Barton. Proprietor Melanie – aka “Ana” – has been there since launching her business last winter. After a week in transition, she hopes to reopen Animated Coffee in its new location – at 4518 Fauntleroy Way SW, same lot to which El Chapulin Oaxaqueño recently moved – by November 5th. One change: “We will be walk-up only to start but hopefully we can support drive-thru in the future.” If you haven’t been to Animated Café lately, she’s been doing themed weekends in which people dressed for the theme get $2 off their order, Her schedule for November:
5th-6th: Second Halloween (wear it one more time!)
12th-13th: Royal Weekend (everyone is royalty this weekend)
19th-20th: Apocalypse Weekend (Mad Max style)
26th-27th: Thanksgiving Weekend (Get Creative)
LA RUSTICA TEMPORARILY CLOSING: The Italian restaurant at 4100 Beach Drive will be closed for much of November. From proprietor Kat:
La Rustica will be closed the first three weeks of November, so if you want to get your fix in before we close, head down today thru Sunday. Because we are doing some work on our kitchen floors, we don’t have a set reopen date but are taking reservations starting the Friday after Thanksgiving. If we reopen before that, we will be sure to let you know. Thank you all for your support, patience and love.
BEDHEAD COFFEE: After a reader inquiry about the status of the coffee shack at 16th/Holden, we contacted founder Michelle. She tells WSB it closed at the end of September, three months after her former partner bought out her share of the business. Whether it might reopen, she didn’t know.
PORTAGE BAY CAFE, WEST SEATTLE: We’ve been reporting on this breakfast/brunch mini-chain‘s plan to expand into West Seattle, taking over the former Agave Cocina space at 4725 42nd SW. Proprietor John told us he hopes to open in January, and that’s now underscored by a sign on the door:
(Thanks to Arlene for the tip.)
4:49 PM: Also out on the water on this blustery day – orcas! Kersti Muul tells us whales are southbound off Alki Point. Let us know if you see the black fins among the whitecaps!
5:59 PM: Donna Sandstrom from The Whale Trail just called – no luck watching for them from west-facing West Seattle, so they may have turned around.
West Seattle has a new centenarian-plus! The announcement and photo are from John Van Lierop, Jr.:
Rev. John Van Lierop, Sr., a resident of The Kenney‘s Memory Unit these last 8 years, reached his 101st birthday today. His son, John, Jr., picked up his chocolate birthday cake at the grocery store this morning. As luck would have it, the cake slid out of the grocery cart, smearing the birthday greetings on the cake. John, Jr. went back to the baker to see if anything could be done. The baker was able to re-ice the greeting and even though it wasn’t perfect-looking, it was acceptable. John Jr. knows that this incident would have been an excellent subject for one of his Father’s sermons. It could be titled “The Redeemed Birthday Cake.” Rev. Van Lierop’s message would probably have said “Life can give us heavy blows at times, but we pick up the pieces and keep on going.” Amen, preacher!
(WSB file photo)
As reported here two weeks ago, SDOT says the Alki Point “Healthy Street” is permanent – Alki Avenue SW west of 63rd SW, and Beach Drive SW north of 63rd SW. The city says it will become a Neighborhood Greenway, and that the next step is to talk with the community about its design. So they’ve set two events for that – an in-person open house 6:30-7:45 pm Wednesday, November 9, at Alki Bathhouse (2701 Alki SW), and an online open house noon- 1 pm Tuesday, November 15 (no link yet). In both cases, SDOT says it’ll show the “early design” concept, answer questions, and take comments. (Here’s how last year’s survey turned out.) Possible “traffic-calming” elements, according to a project update that’s going out today, include a raised crosswalk and traffic circle. If you can’t make it to either event, they’ll be taking comments by email/phone until December 9th – alkikeepmovingstreet@seattle.gov or 206-727-3565. The project was also mentioned recently by the Alki Community Council as an agenda item at their next meeting (7 pm Thursday, November 17).
12:37 PM: Thanks to Brooke for sending the photo. Police have been dealing with that semi-submerged boat at Don Armeni Boat Ramp. We’re headed over to find out about the circumstances.
(Added: WSB photo)
1:10 PM: Police told us that someone left the boat tied up. They don’t know who owns it. It’ll be pulled out of the water and impounded.
(Added: WSB photos)
11:21 AM: An SFD water-rescue response was sent to Lincoln Park for reports of a possible paddleboarder in distress. We’re here and checking.
11:26 AM: “This is indeed a wind surfer and they are fine,” dispatch has just been told. The response is being dismissed.
Sunday morning, we reported briefly on what was a short-lived Seattle Fire “full response” that resulted in an arrest in what police said was a domestic-violence case. We have since learned that the arrest happened hours after the suspect was released from jail – despite prosecutors’ objections – following another arrest 
that we had mentioned here, two shoplift-turned-robbery cases on Friday. The suspect, 37-year-old Farah I. Yusuf (shown at right in a Department of Corrections photo), is now charged in all three incidents. Here’s what we know, according to documents from the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office:
Just before 2:30 pm Friday, police were called to the High Point Walgreens after a report that a man shoplifting electronics accessories had threatened an employee with what he said was a Taser. A short time later, a man matching the same description was reported to have brandished a knife at employees trying to stop shoplifting at Westwood Village Ross Dress for Less. After officers working on the incidents realized they were looking for the same suspect, Yusuf was found at Roxhill Park, arrested and booked into jail for investigation of robbery. The next day – Saturday – he had a bail hearing; the prosecutor asked that he be held in lieu of $100,000 bail, but a judge identified by the KCPAO as Pro Tem Judge Walsh declined to set bail and ordered Yusuf released.
The jail register says Yusuf got out of jail at 8:45 pm Saturday. A little over 10 hours late, around 7 am Sunday, he was arrested again, this time for investigation of arson. Two 911 calls came in from High Point addresses a short distance apart – one about broken windows, one saying a relative was trying to kill him and trying to set the house on fire. That house was found to have had some fire/smoke damage, and what appeared to be a makeshift Molotov cocktail was found. Something similar was found at the other location, along with a strong smell suggesting gasoline had been poured. Yusuf was found nearby. Court documents say he admitted what he’d done, including setting a fire, which relatives say they put out after a smoke detector awakened them. Investigators say he told them he was upset because he asked if he could come into either house to sleep and was told no.
He appeared in court on Monday in connection with those allegations, and this time Judge Gregg Hirakawa set bail at $100,000; court documents say prosecutors asked for $600,000. Yusuf is now charged with three counts of second-degree robbery for the Friday incidents and four felonies for what happened Sunday – first-degree arson/domestic violence, attempted first-degree arson/domestic violence, possession of an incendiary device, and felony harassment/domestic violence
Yusuf has a felony record, including assault and theft convictions last year for which he served time, according to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. Also, in December 2020, we reported on a robbery charge filed against him for another incident at the High Point Walgreens. Court records show that case ended with reduced charges in a plea bargain; we haven’t yet been able to find records for the sentencing.
Before last weekend, he had been arrested at least four times this year, according to the KCPAO: First, a theft/trespass case in early June, referred to the City Attorney’s Office as a misdemeanor case; arrested in June 22nd in another case referred to the CAO, which charged him with harassment, unlawful use of a weapon, property destruction, obstruction, and property destruction, but the case was dismissed for competency issues; arrested July 28th in a case that police never referred to either the KCPAO or CAO; arrested August 5th for a case in which the CAO charged him with unlawful use of a weapon to intimidate another and unconcealed carry. This too was dismissed by a Municipal Court judge for competency issues.
He remains in jail in connection with the new charges and is scheduled to be arraigned next month.
(Photo by Jerry Simmons)
Here’s what’s happening, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and Halloween Guide:
BLOCK DROP: Today’s location for DIY cleanup equipment (and collection dropoff) is Louisa Boren STEM K-8 (5950 Delridge Way SW), until 6 pm.
CITY COUNCIL BUDGET MEETING: Third and final day of the council’s second phase of budget review, including introduction of proposed changes, 9:30 am and 2 pm sessions. Here’s the agenda; you can watch live via Seattle Channel.
WEST SEATTLE DEMOCRATIC WOMEN: 11 am meeting online.
HISTORY HOUR: 11 am at Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon) – today’s topic, “Mary Shelley’s ‘Frankenstein’.”
FAMILY-FRIENDLY HALLOWEEN PARTY: 5-8 pm at Pegasus Pizza (2768 Alki SW), including a costume contest.
HALLOWEEN LIGHT SHOW: Music-synched light show starting tonight, presented by the West Seattle Yuletide team, 6-9:30 pm on 38th SW between Genesee and Dakota.
MUSIC AT OTTER ON THE ROCKS: Piano tonight, starting at 6:30 pm, (4210 SW Admiral Way)
BOARD GAME NIGHT: Go play at Meeples Games (3727 California SW), starting at 6:30 pm.
‘ALCHYMIA’: The Cabiri present Alchymia, a theatrical aerial-dance performance. 8 pm, Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW). Tickets here.
BENBOW’S COUNTRY NIGHT: Thursday “Nashville Nights“ continue at the Benbow Room (4210 SW Admiral Way), 9 pm. 21+.
Have something to add to our calendar? Email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
6:42 AM: A crash response has closed NB 99 just south of the 1st Ave S Bridge. WSP says it’s a “fatal car/pedestrian collision.”
7:31 AM: SPD clarifies the location as East Marginal/Ellis.
8:14 AM: As noted by commenters, that’s a different collision – both fatal driver/pedestrian crashes.
8:40 AM: WSP says the first crash scene is reopening.
THURSDAY NIGHT: Updates – the person killed on 99/50 was a 32-year-old man from Unalaska, AK, according to the State Patrol; the person killed on East Marginal was a 61-year-old man, according to SPD.
Earlier:
6:03 AM: Good morning. It’s Thursday, October 27th.
WEATHER
Some sunbreaks, possibly more rain, high around 60, windy tonight.
TRAFFIC NOTES
-Closure of the outer southbound lane on West Marginal Way between 17th SW and the Duwamish Longhouse continues, collecting data for the protected-bike-lane project.
-The east end of Sylvan Way remains closed for a drainage project.
–Upcoming road work: SDOT has a project starting this weekend for Corson/Michigan/Bailey in Georgetown – here’s the notice.
(added)-Also note that Sunday’s West Seattle Junction Harvest Festival is closing streets on Sunday beyond the usual Farmers’ Market footprint – the festival is 11 am-5 pm but the closures, California between Oregon and Edmunds and Alaska between 42nd and 44th, will start earlier for setup and go later for breakdown.
TRANSIT STATUS
–Metro buses are on their regular schedules; watch @kcmetroalerts for trip cancellations/reroute alerts.
-Still a 2-boat schedule for WSF’s Triangle Route (check here for alerts/updates).
-The West Seattle Water Taxi is on its fall/winter schedule (still daily, all dayparts, but no late Friday/Saturday runs).
SPOTLIGHT CAMERAS
High Bridge – here’s the camera at the top.
High Bridge – the view from its southwest end (if SDOT points the 35th/Avalon/Fauntleroy camera that way).
Low Bridge: Open to all.
1st Ave. S. Bridge: The alternate route.
Highway 99: Here’s the northbound side at Lander.
All functional city traffic cams can be seen here, most with video options; West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras are also on this WSB page … Are movable city bridges opening for vessels? Check the @SDOTBridges Twitter feed.
If you see trouble on the roads/paths/water, please text or call us (when you can do so safely) – 206-293-6302.
After winning their division in the Metro League, the West Seattle High School girls-soccer team had their first playoff match this afternoon at Walt Hundley Playfield in High Point.
The Wildcats had to win to get to the next round of the playoffs – and they did, triumphing over Ingraham, 5-2.
West Seattle’s goals were scored by Olivia Shih, Allie Bennett, and Cece Snyder in the first half, Ryann Craig and Brooke Swanson in the second. The first one came just three minutes into the match, and WSHS never trailed. Their next game is at 4 pm on Friday (October 28) at Magnuson Park in north Seattle, vs. Seattle Prep.
Another double spotlight of Halloween decorations tonight …
Thanks to Janet for that photo from 39th SW and SW Charlestown (a neighborhood long devoted to decorating for fall and winter holidays!), near the Charlestown water tower (technically “standpipe”) as shown. Also tonight, Nikki sent photos from 2752 38th SW:
Nikki explains that she was hired “to create and implement this year’s decorations” at this house via her “concierge” company Help is Here.
We still have more decorations to show you in the next few nights! Meantime, the event lists are getting longer in our West Seattle Halloween Guide, with busy days and nights ahead – if you have a public event happening and it’s not listed yet, hurry! westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you.
Legal drugs can be a danger too – particularly when you don’t need them any more and they’re just taking up space in your medicine cabinet, where anyone from curious kids to burglars can find them. So once again this Saturday (October 29th) it’s National Drug Take-Back Day, and the Southwest Precinct (2300 SW Webster) is one of two SPD precincts where you can drop off unwanted/unneeded medications, 10 am-2 pm. (If those times/location don’t work for you, here’s the list of year-round drop sites, including QFC pharmacy in The Junction.)
(WSB photo. At the podium, Western Washington US Attorney Nicholas Brown)
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
One day after a wave of warrants for 14 locations brought out hundreds of federal and local law-enforcement officers and agents, their bosses briefed the media this afternoon downtown.
As reported here Tuesday, the activity was seen in at least four areas of West Seattle. However, those at today’s briefing said they couldn’t discuss specific locations not mentioned in indictment documents, and none of those refer to WS locations. Here’s our video of what they did say at the half-hour-plus briefing/Q&A in a conference room at the Federal Courthouse:
They’ve indicted eleven people who were arrested in what the federal and local authorities said was activity connected to drug-trafficking organizations (DTOs). It’s part of an ongoing investigation that they said traces back to early last year, primarily involving drug smuggling from Mexico up the I-5 corridor. Two of the locations named in indictments were RVs that were pulled over on I-5 in southern Washington. Some of the 14 locations were in California, and there are some Californians on the list of those indicted:
Jose Paleo, 29, of La Mirada, California
Octavio Guzman, 24, of Huntington Park, California
Glauco Guardado Rodriguez, 25, of Seattle
Araceli Salas, 30, of Maywood, California
Maria Rangel Aguilar, 44, of Huntington Park, California
Miguel Thomas, 33, of Tukwila
Tad Fulton, 48, of Seattle
Ryan Holmquist, 34, of Issaquah
Timothy Hursh, 38, of SeaTac
Ryan Terry, 44, of Duvall
Abel Cruz, 32, of Des Moines (WA)
What was seized around the region yesterday, according to the feds, totaled more than four pounds of fentanyl, 10 pounds of heroin, 10 pounds of meth, and 67 guns, plus “high-capacity rifle ammunition,” thousands of rounds of ammunition, two sets of body amor, and one “ballistic shield.” They showed a photo of the weaponry seized at one unidentified location in Ballard:
Prior seizures in the same investigation were listed as including 43 more guns, a million dollars in cash, more than half a ton of meth, 20 pounds of fentanyl powder, and more than 330,000 fentanyl pills. In all, DEA Seattle special agent in charge Jake Galvan said the amount of drugs seized was “staggering.” They also showed this photo of an identifying mark that they said traffickers had stamped on kilos of drug powder:
The deadliness of fentanyl was stressed time and time again during the briefing, as law-enforcement leaders not only touted what their operation had accomplished but also pleaded with the wider community to do their part by reducing demand. More treatment and counseling needs to be offered too, they said. Yes, this isn’t necessarily a crippling blow to the drug trade, but, Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz said, they’re saving lives by taking some of it off the street. Reducing demand and supply also would cut down on crime, he noted in response to a question, acknowledging that so much property crime is tied to users trying to get money for the next high.
And while the specific locations searched weren’t identified, regional US Attorney Nick Brown, who led the briefing, observed that so much of them were in “neighborhoods” and that it almost literally hit home for him – saying that one was about a mile from where he lives in West Seattle and “I read on the West Seattle Blog about people waking up to flashbangs,”
The agencies involved in the warrant operations were the fBI, DEA, SPD, Customs and Border Protection, High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, and Homeland Security Investigations, as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, described in a news release as a coalition that “identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.” The indictments announced in connection with this – 11 people whose indictments were unsealed after the warrant operations Tuesday, six people who were indicted last month – will proceed through the federal court system.
(WSB file photo)
Thanks for the tips. 3 1/2 years after opening at 35th/Webster, Best of Hands Barrelhouse announced today that it will close as of November 30th. From the announcement made via social media:
As many of you know we were only open for normal operations for a year before the pandemic hit. Unfortunately, among other things, the toll of the pandemic, the slower than expected recovery, and the skyrocketing costs of everything from CO2 to raw ingredients has made it unsustainable for us to continue to operate even with our current skeleton crew. We’d like to thank everybody for their support and interest through the years.
If you have any questions or know of anybody looking for two talented brewers, please don’t hesitate to reach out to nicholas@bestofhandsbarrelhouse.com
Thank you West Seattle!
Best of Hands opened in the cow-topped former Corner Deli spot in March 2019.
Two West Seattle incidents from SPD summaries:
ROBBED AT THE BANK: This happened shortly after 11 am Tuesday inside the Westwood Village Chase Bank, police report. A woman in a wheelchair had just withdrawn money from her account when a woman walked up to her, “forcefully grabbed the victim’s money out of her hand,” then walked out of the bank.
No description included in that summary nor in this one:. The suspect walked outside the bank and left the scene. Officers arrived and conducted an area search for the suspect, but she wasn’t located.
WOULD-BE GOOD SAMARITAN ROBBED, ASSAULTED: This happened just after 10:30 Monday morning in the 9400 block of Delridge Way SW. A man saw two people beating someone up and tied to intervene. He instead got punched in the face, knocked down, and stomped on. One of the attackers, the report says, reached into the victim’s pocket, grabbed his wallet, and fled along with the other attacker.
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