West Seattle, Washington
01 Tuesday
Two West Seattle Crime Watch reader reports:
STOLEN SKATEBOARD: The report and photo are from Jen:
I wanted to report a car break-in that occurred sometime late Friday night or early Saturday morning on Kenyon and 32nd. Stolen items include a Car Battery Jump Starter 12V battery pack, everything in the center console, and a newer Baker skateboard. Everything can be replaced, but the skateboard was a gift, and it would be great to get it back if anyone happens to spot it.
PACKAGE THEFT: The report and photo are from Robert:
We discovered these packages on the street walking home from Junction. We left them at the address on the packages [near where they were found by the curb, in south Morgan Junction/lower Gatewood]. There was a puzzle left, but whatever else was in these was missing. A neighbor came out and moved the packages inside a gate across from the mailboxes.
Tomorrow (Monday, September 23) a memorial gathering at MOHAI will bid farewell to Charley Royer, Seattle’s longest-serving mayor (1978-1991). Though he wasn’t a West Seattleite, he will forever be known here as the mayor who built the West Seattle Bridge, which fully opened in July 1984; its construction was no sure thing after the 1978 ship collision that took out its predecessor. As we did when his brother, former deputy mayor Bob Royer, died five years ago, we’re taking the occasion to bring this out of the video archives:
Charley Royer and Bob Royer both were part of that panel discussion 10 years ago in West Seattle, on the 30th anniversary of the high bridge’s dedication. It was part of a series of bridge-anniversary events presented by the Southwest Seattle Historical Society, at the time led by historian/journalist/writer Clay Eals, who moderated. As Eals notes, “Charley was mired in the contentious issue of building a new bridge, and, of course, took the famous call late June 14, 1978, ‘the night the ship hit the span,’ and told the bridge tender, ‘Seize the ship!’ He also was instrumental in steering money from all levels of government (as was [former city councilmember] Jeanette Williams) to get the high bridge built.” If you don’t want to watch the whole thing, he recommends Charley’s comments at 43:33-49:23, 58:32-1:01:27, and 1:25:25-1:28:16 in the video. Meantime, Mr. Royer’s memorial gathering is set for 4 pm to 6 pm Monday at MOHAI, 800 Terry Ave. North.
One last back-to-school date on the calendar – tomorrow (Monday, September 23) is the start of the fall quarter at South Seattle College (WSB sponsor). It’s not too late to register for classes; you can see here what they’re offering. Notable for this quarter – it’s the first one for SSC’s new president Dr. Monica Brown, who started work in August. SSC serves about 15,000 students a year at its main campus on Puget Ridge (6000 16th SW) and satellite campus in Georgetown.
(Photos courtesy Kenyon Hall)
Perhaps the most distinctive feature of historic event venue Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW) is its “Mighty Wurlitzer” organ. The nonprofit venue is raising money to keep it operational – and next Saturday (September 28) brings a specific way for you to help – here’s the announcement:
The Wurlitzer, a rare and historic organ that represents PNW theater and music history, is threatened with disrepair unless more funds can be raised to repair and restore at beloved West Seattle community theater, Kenyon Hall. Three rank pipes shy of being the same size as a similar organ in the Paramount, the Wurlitzer is one of the remaining organs of its type nationally.
The Wurlitzer organ was created to provide the soundtrack to new and emerging technologies in both film and entertainment in the early 1900s, whereas before theaters often used small live orchestras. Seattle was the first city nationally to have an organ accompany a movie.
Kenyon Hall’s Wurlitzer stands as a wonderful achievement of the pre-digital age but is in need of repairs to ensure it will survive. While many of these organs are “going digital,” Kenyon Hall’s Wurlitzer organ remains completely analog, which means there are thousands of wires that need to be kept in good working order, and an entire three-room series of pipes and switchboards that need to be kept clean and climate controlled. Completely electro-pneumatic, every time a key is pressed by a performer an electrical current runs a wire which then activates a windchest, sending an air current to the corresponding pipe or ranks of pipes.
The Wurlitzer rests at historic Kenyon Hall, a West Seattle community theater built in 1916 that hosts regular theater and concerts. The most notable concert was an exclusive performance by Pearl Jam’s lead singer, Eddie Vedder. In addition to hosting concerts and theater, the Hall is used as a rental space for music recitals, private concerts, social gatherings, and educational events, and is run by local nonprofit Seattle Artists. Kenyon Hall aims to provide living wages to performing artists and teachers while also keeping ticket prices manageable for interested audiences and lesson rates for students affordable.
The COVID-19 pandemic saw with it a drastic decrease in the amount of public arts venues in West Seattle and Seattle in general, and it is Kenyon Hall’s goal to keep the spirit of public arts alive, providing stages for artists new and old to perform and space for audiences to congregate and commune with each other. A fundraiser is planned for Saturday, September 28th from 4 pm-8:30 pm with local performers such as Tomo Nakayama, Erik Walters of Pedro the Lion, and hosted by local Kenyon Hall Cabaret drag performers.
Details of the event can be found at www.kenyonhall.org. Tickets can be purchased via Kenyon Hall’s website or directly through this ticket link (2 seatings). The live stream of the event will be hosted on Kenyon Hall’s YouTube page. This giving campaign will run through the Fall through links provided on Kenyon’s Hall’s “donate” page or directly through this campaign site.
If you’ve never seen/heard the Mighty Wurlitzer being played, you can find many videos online – including this one.
(Photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)
Welcome to fall! The equinox moment was 5:43 am, so the season has officially changed, and here’s what you should know today, starting with three FYI’s:
SPOKANE STREET VIADUCT OPEN: The plan for work all weekend changed early Saturday, so the Spokane Street Viaduct (continuation of West Seattle Bridge between 99 and I-5) is now fully OPEN. (You can doublecheck this traffic cam to be sure.)
STATE FERRIES’ FALL SCHEDULE: This starts today. Biggest change is that the unscheduled “ghost boat” on the Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth run will now also sail on weekends when staffing and vessels are available.
LAST EARLY-CLOSING NIGHT AT ALKI: This is the day that Seattle Parks announced would be the last for early closing at Alki Beach Park (and Golden Gardens).
The beach is in fact where we start the list of what’s happening, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
SWIM IN THE SOUND: At 9 am, jump into the weekly group plunge into Puget Sound off Alki – meet at Statue of Liberty Plaza (61st/Alki).
WESTIES RUN CLUB: Meet for today’s run at 9 am at Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW).
VACCINATION CLINIC: Open to the public, 9 am-3 pm with the Visiting Nurse Association at Madison Middle School (3429 45th SW), appointment required: “Patients will be able to get a flu shot, COVID-19 vaccine, or both in the same appointment. We can vaccinate kids 4 and up for flu and 5 and up for COVID-19. We will be using the updated Moderna products for 2024. Each patient needs their own registration, in their name, with their information.” Here’s the registration link.
WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: As usual, open 10 am-2 pm, with seasonal produce, plus beverages, baked goods, flowers, cheese, fish, meat, prepared food, nuts, candy, more. (California SW between SW Alaska and SW Oregon)
GRAND OPENING: Today’s the big day for Charcuterie by Annalise (6032 California SW), noon-5 pm, as previewed here.
BOOK LAUNCH: 2-4 pm, “Plum Blossom Wine,” a translated book of poetry, celebrated at Seattle Chinese Garden (6000 16th SW) – one of the translators is garden docent/volunteer Sibyl James. The publisher says the book “gives voice to an important female Chinese poet writing in a time when literature was dominated by men.”
‘GUARDS AT THE TAJ’: Second matinee for the award-winning “dark comedy” at ArtsWest (4711 California SW), 3 pm – info and tickets here.
COLORING BOOK RELEASE: 5 pm at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW), a DJ set with Marco Collins celebrates the release of “Color Me, I’m Sick: A Grunge Coloring Book.”
FALL EQUINOX SUNSET WATCH: Join Alice Enevoldsen at Solstice Park (7400 Fauntleroy Way SW, upslope) at 6:30 pm to mark the change of seasons and learn about what “equinox” really means. Free, all ages.
HAVE FUN GETTING READY: 6:30 pm, Alice Kuder of Just In Case is leading another of her free Ready Freddie Prep Parties at Whisky West (6451 California SW) – RSVP here to be sure there’s room.
LIVE MUSIC AT THE ALLEY: Sunday night music with the Triangular Jazztet at The Alley (4509 California SW) – 8-10 pm.
Are you organizing and/or publicizing something that should be listed on our community event calendar – one-time or recurring? Just email us the basics – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
(WSB photos/video unless otherwise credited)
Before grabbing pickers and bags, that throng of International Coastal Cleanup Day volunteers gathered for a group photo just west of Alki Statue of Liberty Plaza. As previewed here earlier this week, Ocean Conservancy partnered with Puget Soundkeeper to host this local event as part of the international observance, the first time an International Coastal Cleanup Day flagship event has been held at Alki Beach Park. And they learned before heading out onto the sand and the streets that every little bit helps, literally. First they got the big picture from Ocean Conservancy’s Nick Mallos, vice president of conservation for ocean plastics, about today’s worldwide effort:
Puget Soundkeeper’s executive director Sean Dixon got into the specifics of what was most important to look for while cleaning – a lesson you can apply to even a simple informal cleanup while you’re at the beach (or out at sea): In short, look for small plastic pieces, which can end up not just in the water, but also inside fish, marine mammals, and seabirds:
Going for the small stuff, as was encouraged, the hundred-plus volunteers collected 142 pounds in about two hours of work on Alki.
(This photo and next by Patty Chambers, courtesy Ocean Conservancy)
If you’d like to join the cleanup movement – or are already active – you don’t have to wait for the next event; Ocean Conservancy also offers the Clean Swell app, where you can contribute to what OC says is “the world’s largest repository of marine debris data and is used to inform scientists, conservation groups, governments, and industry leaders about ocean trash and support plastic pollution prevention and advocacy efforts.” Meantime, one more simple thing you can do is use less plastic – today’s volunteers got a souvenir that’ll help with that:
This year’s International Coastal Cleanup Day worldwide stats aren’t tallied yet but these numbers from last year are eye-opening.
Autumn officially arrives at 5:43 am Sunday – the equinox moment. A little over 12 hours later, you can greet the new season in a uniquely West Seattle way – the change-of-seasons sunset watch with educator/expert skywatcher Alice Enevoldsen. She’ll be at Solstice Park (where you’ll find the marker shown above, aligning with the equinox-sunset path), upslope from the tennis courts and P-Patch at 7400 Fauntleroy Way SW, starting around 6:30 Sunday; sunset will be around 7 pm (earlier than official charts, because of the mountains). Drop in to learn what “equinox” really means, and to hear about any upcoming skywatching events of note.
Two readers emailed this afternoon about bicycle thefts:
BLUE CANNONDALE: Reported by Alyssa:
STOLEN FROM 42nd AND GRAHAM – BLUE CANNONDALE gravel bike with PINK pedals
I believe sometime last night 9/20 or this morning 9/21 someone came into my gated yard and took my Cannondale, BLUE bike with PINK pedals. This would have been obstructed from view from the road and someone would have been having to look through my wood fence to see it. I had set it out for a bike ride today with my son. I’m devastated – I know it’s just a bike, but it’s one of my favorite activities to share with my son.
Please be on the lookout! It’s a unique-looking bike. I’m a single mom and can’t afford to replace it at this time.
Police report [temporary] no. T00011594
Or text/call me at 425-623-7903 if seen!
ADDED: As discussed in comments, the bike thief is shown on home-security video (second clip in the series).
GREEN RADRUNNER 3: Jacob says he was at home when someone stole his e-bike from his garage in Fauntleroy earlier this afternoon:
Wanted to give a heads-up that on 9/21 @ 1:30 pm, a lady walked by our home (in the 4000 block of) SW Director, hopped in our green RadRunner 3 e-bike and headed toward the ferry. My neighbor watched it all happen, jumped in the car to chase, but she was gone. I notified the police as the bike was worth ~$2k. This was broad daylight, on Barton street. Garage was open from doing yard work and we were home and in/out of house. Only knew because my neighbor saw it happen.
We’ll add the police report when we get it. (ADDED: It’s 24-268956.)
Until 5 pm, you can visit any or all of 14 West Seattle places where art is made and/or shown. The West Seattle Art Tour is a much-more behind-the-scenes experience than the monthly West Seattle Art Walk. We’re just back from one stop – we went to Gatewood to see the artists featured today at The Building (4316 SW Othello), a former church school converted into artist studios:
Upstairs, you’ll find Rebecca Woodhouse, who’s had a studio at The Building for almost three years. You can also talk with Nichole DeMent, a mixed-media-encaustic artist who’s been creating there for 10+ years, and Stephen Rock, who works in “a variety of processes”:
With more than 50 artists participating at the 14 Art Tour stops, some are hosting visiting artists as well as resident artists. At The Building, Kelly Marshall – a mixed-media painter from Queen Anne – is visiting today:
Throughout The Building, there’s art on the walls and along the stairways, making it a great stop for wandering (the upstairs west-facing windows have Puget Sound views, too). But the 13 other stops have their charms – we chose this one for proximity to HQ, but as the map shows, you have options from Admiral to Roxhill. Find maps and the artist list here; the free Art Tour continues until 5 pm today.
After a morning rush, there’s plenty of capacity and no waiting at Fauntleroy Church‘s fall 2024 Recycle Roundup, continuing in the church lot until 3 pm.
The church’s Recycle Roundup partner 1 Green Planet had a truck coming in for a pickup when we were there, so there’s no chance they’ll run out of room.
The service is free, but if you are able to make a monetary donation to support the effort, volunteers will gratefully accept it. Meantime, whatever you have – as long as it’s on the official list, just bring it down and drop it off – 1 Green Planet workers will take it off your hands.
The church is at 9140 California SW – here’s a map.
As mentioned in the previous story, a car was stolen overnight in the same neighborhood where another presumably stolen car was dumped. Now we have the info on the car that was taken: Aaron says it’s a 2014 Kia Soul resembling this stock photo; it was taken from Walnut Avenue SW: “The license plate is BMV1261 and the police case number is 24–268655. It has a Coachella Firebird sticker on the back windshield.” If you see it, call 911.
Looking for this car? Tom sent the photo:
There is a Hyundai Tucson with 90-day tags and the engine still running at Walnut and Hinds (on Hinds). Window is smashed so it looks stolen. Other neighbor’s car was stolen on the block too.
We’re expecting info from that neighbor and will post separately when received. We’re told the same area had multiple car prowls overnight too.
(Photo by Eugene Lee – along Beach Drive during Friday sunset)
Our weekend begins! Here’s what to know for today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, starting with three reminders:
SPOKANE STREET VIADUCT: Resurfacing work continues on the Spokane Street Viaduct (continuation of West Seattle Bridge between 99 and I-5), so the westbound lanes are closed all weekend, and that means you can’t get to the WS Bridge from I-5 – full list of ramp effects here. (10:28 AM: As commenters have pointed out and live camera verifies, there are NO closures right now despite the SDOT announcement. We know crews were working late last night, so what we’re trying to find out now is whether they finished early or plan to resume later. UPDATE: SDOT verifies that it’s open for the rest of the weekend.)
LOW BRIDGE FULLY OPEN: If you lost track of this, one more reminder that the low bridge reopened to drivers on Friday afternoon and is now open to all modes of travel.
ELLIOTT BAY DRILL: As noted here last night, the Water Taxi is part of a U.S. Coast Guard drill scheduled for 9 am-3 pm today.
Now the events:
SATURDAY GROUP RUN: Meet at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) at 8 am for the regular Saturday morning run.
HIGHLAND PARK ELEMENTARY/PATHFINDER SALE – GIVE OR TAKE: This is a two-part event – 8 am to 10 am, stop by to donate items; 9 am-3 pm, stop by to take items (and donate money in exchange if you can) – benefiting Highland Park Elementary PTA and Pathfinder K-8 PTSA, happening at 11th SW & SW Cloverdale. Bake sale too!
OTHER GARAGE SALES TODAY: See what’s listed in the WSB Community Forums!
RECYCLE ROUNDUP: Don’t want to/can’t sell or donate it? Can’t recycle it at the curb? Today might be your big chance to get it out of your life – the free dropoff Recycle Roundup is 9 am-3 pm outside Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW) – our calendar listing shows what they will and won’t accept this time.
TWO COMMUNITY CLEANUPS: 9 am at Alki Beach and 10 am at High Point — just show up and clean up!
HEAVILY MEDITATED: 9 am at Move2Center (3618 SW Alaska), free community meditation – RSVP here.
BIG BLUE TRUCK: The Northwest Center‘s donation-dropoff truck (WSB sponsor) is back in West Seattle, every weekend. 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.
GUIDED HIKE IN THE WEST DUWAMISH GREENBELT: Your monthly chance to explore a green gem in West Seattle, guided by people who know and love it – meet at Pathfinder K-8 (1901 SW Genesee) by 9:30 am.
DELRIDGE FARMERS’ MARKET: West Seattle has TWO farmers’ markets every weekend! Start your market shopping with this one – 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, continuing weekly through late October! (9421 18th SW; WSB sponsor)
WESTFEST: Holy Rosary School‘s fall community festival, 10 am-10 pm. Entertainment, kids’ rides, carnival-style games, food booths, bingo. Entertainment lineup is in our calendar listing. (Behind the school, off 42nd SW between SW Genesee and SW Dakota)
WEST SEATTLE ART TOUR: 10 am-5 pm, 50 artists are waiting to meet you during this annual celebration, showing and selling their work at 14 locations around the peninsula. Free self-guided tour – plan your stops here.
AUTUMN EQUINOX TEA CEREMONY: 10 am in Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW), hosted by Linh Le; check to see if tickets remain.
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! 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!
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.
OPEN HOUSE: Village Green West Seattle (2615 SW Barton; WSB sponsor) welcomes you, 11 am-1 pm, to see what senior living is like
FAMILY READING TIME: Every Saturday at 11 am at Paper Boat Booksellers (6040 California SW).
‘CONNECTING IN GRIEF’ DAY RETREAT: 11 am-5 pm retreat at Camp Long (5200 35th SW) with three grief guides, explained here (along with cost and registration information).
SECOND USE FALL FEST: The salvage firm in SODO wants to invite West Seattleites over to its celebration – sale, games, free food, more. (3223 6th Ave. S.)
LOG HOUSE MUSEUM OPEN: The home of West Seattle history is open for your visit, noon-4 pm – see the new West Duwamish Greenbelt exhibit! (61st/Stevens)
VIETNAMESE CULTURAL CENTER OPEN: The center is also open to visitors noon-3 pm, as explained here. (2236 SW Orchard)
DOG SWIMMING IN ARBOR HEIGHTS: Last day that your dog is welcome to swim in the Arbor Heights Swim and Tennis Club pool before it’s drained for the offseason. 12:30-5 pm, $5. More info in our calendar listing. (11003 31st SW)
(added) PEACE PICNIC: 1-4 pm potluck in the park – details in our calendar listing. (4570 W. Marginal Way SW)
COCKTAIL CLASS: 1 pm at Otter on the Rocks (4210 SW Admiral Way) – check before going to see if tickets remain.
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.
AT THE SKYLARK: Third night for Emerald City Kings’ Ball, 8 pm, 21+ – tonight is competition night. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
ALL-AGES OPEN MIC: 7-10 pm at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way)
RAY SKJELBRED AT KENYON HALL: Doors 7 pm, music 7:30 pm – get your ticket(s) here. (7904 35th SW)
GUARDS AT THE TAJ: “Dark comedy” in its seond weekend at ArtsWest (4711 California SW), 7:30 pm – get tickets here.
REVELRY ROOM DJ: 9 pm, DJ Tomas. (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 is welcome to a spot on our calendar! Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
(WSB photos by Patrick Sand)
The 2024 Huling Bowl crosstown-competition football game is in the books, and this year at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex, Chief Sealth International High School is going home with the trophy. On Friday night, the Seahawks won the annual faceoff with West Seattle High School, 24-7. Often the pageantry and energy is more fun than the football; tonight, the stands were packed:
Chief Sealth, Friday night’s home team at NCSWAC – where both teams play their home games – ran onto the field through a “Best in the West” banner:
Sealth is home team (both play home games here) pic.twitter.com/9vfjWp7M0a
— West Seattle Blog (@westseattleblog) September 21, 2024
Both schools’ bands played, including a drumline battle:
As for the football, things were kind of slow in the first half. On Sealth’s first major drive, they had to settle for a field goal, kicked by #34, junior Ogi Petronijevic, with 5:49 left in the first quarter:
Wildcats’ #13, junior LJ Moody, had an impressive series of runs after that, but West Seattle’s move down the field ended with Sealth’s #21, junior Marshawn Tovia-Ford, sacking West Seattle’s #12, sophomore Desmond Parkinson. The Seahawks carried their momentum into the second quarter, with #23, junior Xander Gomez, scoring a touchdown at 9:00.
The kick was good and Sealth was up 10-0. Less than three minutes later, the Wildcats nabbed their only TD of the gae, by #23, senior Myles Mutchler.
#34, junior Scott Bremen, got the extra point, and that was the end of West Seattle’s scoring for the game. Their next drive was thwarted by a penalty – announced as offensive pass interference – that set them back to 1st and 25. After Sealth took over the ball a few minutes later, defensive pass interference was called. 10-7 was still the score at halftime. The Seahawks added two touchdowns in the faster-moving second half, #12, junior MJ Filitaula, at 5:13 in the third quarter:
In the fourth quarter, WSHS made some progress with 6-plus minutes to go, when a comeback from a 10-point deficit wouldn’t have been implausible, but then Sealth’s #21 intercepted a pass and ran in the last TD, late in the game:
Big change from last year’s down-to-the-wire WSHS victory. The victory brings Sealth this year’s bragging rights and custody of the trophy, walked out by athletic directors Ernest Policarpio of CSIHS and Corey Sorenson of WSHS:
The celebration afterward brought parents and fans to the sidelines for photo ops:
Winning coach Daron Camacho was all smiles:
Sightings earlier:
Above is a group of Sealth alums including members of the Huling family, for which the annual game is named (see our 2012 report for the backstory). Below, the schools’ principals, Ray Morales and Brian Vance:
NEXT GAMES: Both teams play at NCSWAC again next Friday night (September 27), but not against each other. West Seattle (0-3) plays Lincoln at 4:30 pm Friday; Chief Sealth (3-0) plays Ingraham at 7:30 pm.
(Myers Way, Thursday evening, post-resolution)
“Resolution” is the word the city currently uses rather than “sweep”; workers from multiple departments resolved two RV-dominated encampments in West Seattle this week, so we followed up for the statistics that are usually available afterward. We requested and received this information from the mayor’s office, to which the Unified Care Team reports:
SW Trenton north of Westwood Village, cleared on Wednesday (September 18):
-35 people were contacted (over three weeks – they weren’t all living at the site); 7 accepted offers of shelter; 6 RVs and 3 vehicles were at the site, 3 towed; 4,200 pounds of debris removed
Myers Way near the Joint Training Facility, cleared on Thursday (September 19):
-11 people were contacted; 2 accepted offers of shelter; 18 RVs and vehicles were at the site, 2 towed; 11,400 pounds of debris removed
FYI for Elliott Bay-watchers, and anybody visiting Alki, on Saturday – King County Water Taxi spokesperson Al Sanders tells us that the WT and the U.S. Coast Guard “will be holding their annual joint training exercise from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. across Elliott Bay. One of our vessels is going to be ‘boarded’ by the Coast Guard throughout the day.” So if you see unusual activity on Saturday (September 21) involving one of the Water Taxi vessels, now you know.
ADDED SATURDAY: The drill activity ranged outside the bay, too – Chris Frankovich sent this photo shortly after 3 pm:
Guardian One – our area’s only law-enforcement helicopter – has been out doing loops, first over White Center, then over Westwood, then north of The Junction. Here’s a screenshot from Flightradar24:
No major related incidents that we know of, so far, but some people have texted us, wondering, so we’re mentioning it. (Currently the helicopter’s flying along Alki.)
(Screenshot from traffic camera, looking westward over Spokane Street Viaduct)
ORIGINAL REPORT, 4:55 PM FRIDAY: Even though the low bridge HAS reopened to all traffic, SDOT says there WILL be a change in the previously announced plan for lane closures on the Spokane Street Viaduct (the extension of the West Seattle Bridge between 99 and I-5) this weekend, as the resurfacing project continues. Here’s the new plan:
Friday Night Through Monday – 09/20/24 to 09/23/24
NO EB CLOSURES AT ALL
WB Full Lane Closures – 10:00 pm Friday to 5:00 am Monday
Here’s what that means, for that time period:
WB S Spokane St Viaduct – Closed from I-5 Interchange to SR 99.
S Columbian Way Off Ramp to WB Spokane Viaduct – Closed. Ramp to Lower Spokane St will remain open.
NB I-5 Off Ramp to WB Spokane Viaduct – Closed. Ramp to Lower Spokane St will remain open.
SB I-5 Off Ramp to WB Spokane Viaduct – Closed. Ramp to S Columbian Way will remain open.
1st Ave S Off-Ramp – Closed (from WB SSV).
1st Ave S On-Ramp – Closed (to WB SSV).
Port of Seattle Terminals 5-18/Harbor Island/11th Ave SW Off-Ramp – Closed.EB S Spokane Street Viaduct – All Lanes Open
No estimate yet of how much longer the project will last, but we keep asking.
11:32 AM SATURDAY: Though readers mentioned the I-5 ramps were closed early today, others have since pointed out that right now, there are NO lane closures. We’re trying to reach SDOT to find out what the plan is for the rest of the weekend.
4:23 PM SATURDAY: SDOT has tweeted that the work zone is “clear,” so it appears that means no more closures this weekend.
(Screenshot from low-bridge traffic camera)
2:56 PM: Just in from SDOT – the West Seattle low bridge just reopened to all traffic, almost six days after a suspected drunk driver crashed into a gate/barrier at high speed, damaging “the mechanical gate, lock mechanism, gate control panel, and sensors,” per SDOT. The low bridge’s foot/bike path reopened to users Sunday night, one day after the crash, but the mechanisms involved in safe operation of the rest of the bridge took five days longer. NOTE: Since the low bridge is open, SDOT’s announcement says, “Work on the South Spokane Street Viaduct will continue as planned with lane closures in both directions throughout the weekend.” (Details on that are here.)
4:42 PM: The SSV plan is changing independent of the low bridge reopening – no EB closures, full WB closure 10 pm tonight to 5 am Monday.
The West Seattle Junction Association‘s Wine Walks always sell out – so if you’re interested in next Friday’s Wine Walk but not yet in possession of a ticket, snap one up now! We just talked with WSJA leaders, and three-quarters of the September 27 tickets already have been spoken for. Haven’t been on a Wine Walk? 27 venues in The Junction are hosting 29 wineries (listed here), so you get to visit local businesses while enjoying local wine. (Including three WSB sponsors – Viscon Cellars hosted at CAPERS, Spruce Hill Winery hosted at Rush Hour, and the new location of Emerald Water Anglers hosting Wandering Wolf.) First you check in – starting at 5 pm – at your choice of two spots, Jet City Labs or Row House, and then you have until 9 pm to do your Wine Walk-ing. Tickets are $37, including 14 tastings, a bottle tote bag for purchases, and a logo-decorated wine glass for all of your sips. This is a fundraiser for WSJA, the nonprofit that, with the support of Junction businesses, produces a long list of events throughout the year and oversees business-district beautification and safety efforts too. Go here to get your ticket(s)! P.S. For bottle-buyers, we’re told there’ll be a “valet” spot again this time where you can store purchases while you’re still Wine-Walk’ing.
Ready for some Friday afternoon whale-watching? Kersti Muul reports via text that “orcas have exited Colvos Passage [west side of Vashon] and are heading up the east side of Blake, so will be visible from West Seattle. They are traveling quickly, with long down times, and may be hard to spot!” Let us know if you do see them.
(Spawning pair, photographed in 2021 by Tom Trulin)
This year’s Fauntleroy Creek salmon watch is set to start on October 13, reports creek steward Judy Pickens, adding that they’d appreciate some additional volunteer watchers:
More than a dozen volunteers are on deck to document spawning season in Fauntleroy Creek but a few more would be welcome. Last year, watchers came out in the cold and wet to count 34 coho spawners.
The watch will start Sunday, October 13, and go into mid-November, depending on the fish. Watchers take half-hour shifts at the fish ladder in the lower creek (across from the ferry terminal). A veteran watcher will train. Email your interest by September 27 to info@fauntleroywatershed.org.
October 13 is also the day of the annual all-ages drumming to call in spawners. Barring serious rain, this free event will start at 4:00 pm near the fish ladder. Find details HERE.
Though watchers only saw 34 spawners last year, in both 2021 and 2022, they counted more than 200.
(Photo by James Tilley: Orange-crowned warbler with blackberries)
Here’s our reminder list of what’s happening in West Seattle and vicinity for the rest of today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you can always preview what’s coming up beyond same-day):
STAY ‘N’ PLAY RETURNS: Free weekly drop-in indoor play is back at Arbor Heights Community Church (4113 SW 102nd), until 11:30 am.
SSC GARDEN CENTER: With fall just days away, season-appropriate plants await you at the north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus, now 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!
LISTENING EVENT WITH FREE PIZZA: Easy Street Records listening event for Father John Misty‘s new music, 1 pm – RSVP here. (4559 California SW)
NORTHWEST WINE ACADEMY TASTING ROOM: 1-6 pm, open in the north lot of South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor).
DOG SWIMMING IN ARBOR HEIGHTS: Second-to-last day that your dog is welcome to swim in the Arbor Heights Swim and Tennis Club pool before it’s drained for the offseason. 4-7 pm, $5 per visit. More info in our calendar listing. (11003 31st SW)
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).
FOOTBALL: This year’s crosstown rivalry game, West Seattle HS vs. Chief Sealth IHS in the Huling Bowl, is set for 6 pm at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle).
WESTFEST: Holy Rosary School‘s fall community festival starts tonight, 6-10 pm. Entertainment, kids’ rides, carnival-style games, food booths, bingo. Entertainment lineup is in our calendar listing. (Behind the school, off 42nd SW between SW Genesee and SW Dakota)
AT KENYON HALL: Signups at 6 pm, music at 6:30 pm, for Kenyon Hall‘s monthly open-mic showcase. (7904 35th SW)
COFFEEHOUSE COMEDY: Midnight Mystery Theater at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm.
AT THE SKYLARK: Emerald City Kings’ Ball festival continues, doors at 7 pm, performances at 8 pm. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
AT THE SPOT: Fridays are Live Artist Showcase nights at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way), 7-10 pm.
OUTDOOR MOVIE: 7:30 pm “Hugo” at Maarten Park (42nd/Juneau), free, with popcorn!
‘GUARDS AT THE TAJ’: Second weekend for this “dark comedy” at ArtsWest (4711 California SW), 7:30 pm.
MAKE IT LOUD: Tonight’s bands at Southgate Roller Rink are Gaytheist, Old Iron, Benzo. 9 pm doors, $18 cover, $5 skates, 21+. (9646 17th SW)
REVELRY ROOM DJ: 9 pm, DJ Vitamin D! (4547 California SW)
JARAY’S DJ: 9 pm, DJ Buzsy at Jaray’s Lounge (2216 SW Orchard).
Anything 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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