West Seattle, Washington
03 Sunday
(File photo)
Three months ago, we told you that Luna Park Café proprietor John Bennett had, after 35 years, decided to find a new owner for his restaurant. Now the search is over. We discovered this via a routine check of liquor-license applications – one way to learn about new establishments or new owners for existing ones – and followed up with Bennett, who confirmed the sale:
I did sell Luna Park Cafe after over 35 years of ownership. I started building out the restaurant in 1988 in what was Pat and Ron’s tavern. I opened the day after St Patrick’s Day 1989. I carefully vetted all the people who made offers. I feel I picked the right person to take over for the next 35 years. I physically worked at the restaurant for 4 months before I sold it. It was great to talk to all the longtime customers and work with an amazing staff. It was bittersweet to sell, but I need to move on toward retirement.
The new owner is Heong Soon Park, already an accomplished restaurateur – his restaurants include Bacco Café at Pike Place Market, Chan Seattle in the Paramount Hotel, and Cheese Room Seattle on Capitol Hill (which took over the longtime Ristorante Machiavelli space). Via email, we asked the new owner if any changes are ahead for Luna Park Café. He replied, “Luna Park will stay the same, I will be working on improving food and some service, but only to make it better, I promised John to keep for another 30 years to keep his legacy and I want to keep my promise.” For now the hours will remain 8 am-3 pm daily, but Park adds, “We are planning to open for the evening next year. I have a lot of things to digest before I go further.” But he stresses he’s in it for the long haul: “I am improving Luna Park to make it better and can last another 30 years. Who know who will be taking over after 30 years; hopefully my kids. But give me some time, I will promise you to make it better in every way and be the #1 West Seattle go-to spot!!” (Never been to Luna Park Café? 2918 SW Avalon Way.)
Once again this year, Dirk at 37th/Graham is putting on a Halloween lights-and-music (tune to 87.9 FM when nearby) extravaganza, and that’s what we’re featuring tonight as our Halloween-decoration spotlights continue.
Twice as many lights as last year, Dirk says, and the music is inspired by Hans Zimmer‘s recent live performance, including movie music from James Bond (in the clip above), Dune, Wonder Woman, Interstellar, Pirates of the Caribbean, and likely more. This show may not be running every evening until next Friday, so if you happen by and it’s not on, put it on your list for next weekend and beyond. Not particularly spooky music, but hey, how many times in one season do you want to hear “Thriller”? Dirk, by the way, is very interested in feedback, especially on the music, so when you see the full show, come back here to comment! (All our Halloween-related coverage, including decorations, is archived and scrollable here. And if you have decoration pics and/or video to share, westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!)
The night after the Northern Lights, another spectacular show in the West Seattle sky – a showy sunset. Thanks to everyone who’s sent photos! The one above is from Brooke Gosztola; below, from Tom Trulin, by the Fauntleroy ferry dock:
This one is from John Denault in Highland Park:
You might have noticed the rainbow in the east before sunset – Jerry Simmons caught this image:
We might have a few more to add – check back!
At least three West Seattle cases are among almost 80 robberies and other violent crimes that police are linking to four teenagers they arrested Thursday in Federal Way. From this afternoon’s announcement, made by Seattle Police, who say other agencies were involved:
On September 5th, many King County police agencies began investigating a rash of violent robberies, carjackings, burglaries, and shootings. This crime spree has totaled 78 known cases throughout King County alone. This group is responsible for at least 22 Seattle cases, most of which are armed robberies.
The targets of the majority of these robberies were gas stations as well as late-night fast-food restaurants. The group would often consist of 2-3 males wearing face masks and hooded clothing. The suspects would show up in a stolen vehicle which was either taken in a vehicle theft or a carjacking. They would enter the store, prop the door open, and point guns directly at the employees demanding they open the cash register. In many cases they would destroy computers they believed were tied to surveillance footage.
With probable cause generated by the Seattle Police Robbery Unit, we conducted surveillance with assistance from the Gun Violence Reduction Unit (GVRU) on a location where these suspects were known to frequent in Federal Way. While on this surveillance operation, detectives armed with knowledge of a recent Bellevue carjacking that had just occurred roughly 30-40 minutes prior, observed the suspects pulling into the parking lot of this apartment complex. Seattle Police SWAT operators were mobilized as were King County’s Guardian One helicopter and K9 units. The suspects then exited the apartment unit and got back into the stolen Mercedes and drove away.
With helicopter surveillance, a tire-deflation device, SWAT officers, and a foot pursuit, they finally arrested the suspects; the SPD Blotter post gets into those details. SPD’s post also includes this map showing some of the locations, including three in West Seattle:
We don’t have a list cross-referencing the locations/numbers to incidents, and no charges are yet filed referring to specific incidents (that’s expected next week). But during a briefing at HQ this afternoon (we weren’t able to go downtown but watched via regional-media stream – update: SPD has now made the video available here), a detective specifically mentioned the September 30th incident at the 16th/Holden 7-11, in which a would-be robber tried to shoot his way into the (locked) store, so that’s one of the cases.
WHAT’S HAPPENED SINCE THE ARRESTS: The King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office says the lone adult, an 18-year-old, had an appearance this afternoon. He was initially arrested for investigation of unlawful gun possession. Prosecutors asked for $200,000 bail; a judge set it at $100,000. Police say the gun was stolen, and that he is ineligible to possess any gun because he’s a convicted felon. (Juvenile court records show he pleaded guilty in two robbery cases.)
Of the juveniles, here’s what KCPAO spokesperson Casey McNerthney said has happened so far:
A 16-year-old arrested was in court Friday afternoon for a 1:30 p.m. hearing the Clark Child and Family Justice Center. He was arrested for investigation of robbery and investigation of unlawful possession of a firearm for two different offense dates. Prosecutors asked for him to be held in custody. (In juvenile court in King County, a bail amount is not argued – it’s either in our out of custody, which is decided by the Court). The Court found probable cause for Robbery in the First Degree and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm. He remains in custody. King County prosecutors anticipate receiving a case from police investigators for a charging decision by Tuesday, Oct. 15. In juvenile cases statewide, first appearance document are not available in juvenile cases the same way they are in adult cases, in line with state law. Police narratives are available after charges are filed and charging decisions have been made by prosecutors – and that comes after law enforcement investigators make a full case referral (which is anticipated for these specific allegations on Oct. 15).
A 15-year-old was arrested on a warrant for a previous case that he is on supervision for. In August 2024, the teen was sentenced through traditional prosecution for Taking a Motor Vehicle Without Permission in the Second Degree and Robbery in the Second Degree and was granted a suspended disposition alternative by the Court, as authorized by law. When the 15-year-old did not follow his court-ordered terms, King County prosecutors made a motion for a bench warrant on August 22, 2024. The 15-year-old was arrested Thursday on that warrant. King County prosecutors asked for the Court to hold him in custody, and the Court held him in custody after hearing from both sides. (Again, there is not a bail amount set in juvenile court – it’s either in or out of custody.) A new case or new first appearance document for the 15-year-old has not been referred to King County prosecutors at this point.
Another 16-year-old was identified by police in this investigation, but it does not appear he was formally booked. Information for a first appearance hearing for that 16-year-old has not been sent to King County prosecutors. (Arrest and booking decisions are separate from prosecutors.) If prosecutors receive a case referral, it will be reviewed for a charging decision and police can send cases anytime within the statute of limitations.
3:45 PM: Thanks for the tip. Vehicles are not being allowed to cross the West Seattle low bridge right now. SDOT says the bridge is having “technical issues.” According to one texter, the bike/foot path is open, though. Updates to come.
4:22 PM: Live camera just showed the gates raising from the vehicle lanes and traffic moving again.
Three incidents in West Seattle Crime Watch:
CRASH-AND-GRAB ATTEMPT: That security video shows would-be burglars trying to crash their way into Seamart at 16th/Holden early this morning. The owner called police around 7:15 am after arriving and discovering the door glass shattered. We went over to follow up; he provided us with the security video and said that, as it shows, the would-be burglars backed into the front of the store twice, but then drove away without getting into the store. If you have any information, the incident # is 24-288674.
Two reader reports:
GARAGE PROWLER: This happened in a garage at 35th and Graham:
At 1:42 AM on Wednesday the 8th, a femme-looking stranger trespassed into our building’s garage from Graham Street, wearing a dark baseball cap with a circular logo on the front, pulled low to cover their face, and also wore glasses on their face. They entered our garbage room and closed the door behind them, peeked out a few times, and when they left the room after about 15 minutes their cap and glasses were gone.
They had changed out of their pants into either shorts or a skirt, and was wearing a different t-shirt. They then tested a locked door nearby before exiting the garage and walking north along the alley between 35th and 36th.
This incident # is 24-287961.
DECORATIONS STOLEN: “Frustrated in Fauntleroy” emailed to report, “We had our ‘Nightmare Before Halloween’ decorations stolen from in front of our house (Tuesday) night.” Online temporary report # T00013437.
(WSB photo, THEM at Easy Street Records in July)
Hot headliners will rock your world at Friendsgiving, benefiting arts education for all, via Mode Music and Performing Arts – nonprofit offshoot of Mode Music Studios (WSB sponsor). Tickets are available now, while they last, and this announcement has full details:
Mode Music and Performing Arts (MMPA) is excited to announce its annual Friendsgiving Fundraiser Dinner and Auction, set to take place on Friday, November 8, 2024, at Emerald City Trapeze Arts. The event will run from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM and promises a memorable evening filled with live performances, delicious food, and unique auction items — all to support a great cause.
The Friendsgiving event aims to raise funds for MMPA’s vital programs, which provide access to arts education for children across Seattle who might not otherwise have the opportunity. These programs include after-school arts enrichment, in-school arts programs, pay-what-you-can group classes and camps, and private-lesson scholarships for music instruction, ensuring that every child has the chance to explore their creativity through the arts.
Event highlights include:
-Special performances by THEM and Brittany Davis, and Mode students and staff
-Live and silent auctions
-Dinner provided by Blue Ribbon Catering with drinks included
-Emcéed by KEXP DJ Troy NelsonMMPA is grateful for the generous support of Perfect Day Games, whose sponsorship has helped make this event possible.
“We are proud to continue our mission of creating accessible and equitable arts education for all children,” said Erin Rubin, Founder of MMPA. “Friendsgiving is a celebration of community and creativity and we’re so excited to get together with supporters for a fun evening that directly benefits Seattle’s youth.”
Tickets are available now and can be purchased online at auctria.events/Friendsgiving2024 . Those who can’t attend can also support the fundraiser with a donation through the event website. Sponsorships and donations to the auction can still be made through the contact below or through the event website.
MMPA is based in North Delridge; the event venue (Emerald City) is at 2702 6th Ave. S. in nearby SODO.
The twice-yearly “Observation Blitz” campaigns at Nucor‘s West Seattle steel plant has benefits beyond worker safety. It also raises money for West Seattle-founded, White Center-based WestSide Baby to support its work helping babies, kids, and their families. Here’s how the “blitz” is explained: “Nucor challenges their teammates to complete as many safety observations as possible and donates $5, for every observation completed.” Nucor team members stopped by WS Baby on Thursday for a ceremonial check presentation from this year’s campaign, making a donation of $15,800. WS Baby spokesperson Morgan McGinn tells WSB, “Nucor has supported WestSide Baby for going on 11 years now … Our team is so grateful for their commitment to community and giving back.” (You can help WS Baby too – this page will point you to six possibilities.)
(Photo by Jerry Simmons)
Before we get any further into Friday, check out 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 (go there any time to look into the future):
PET FOOD DONATION DRIVE: Reminder that this continues at All The Best Pet Care (4722 Fauntleroy Way SW; WSB sponsor), as announced last week – open until 7:30 pm tonight.
SOUTHWEST ARTIST SHOWCASE: Visit the Southwest Library (9010 35th SW) to see the art in this year’s Southwest Artist Showcase. The library is open today until 6 pm.
SSC GARDEN CENTER: Fall is here, and season-appropriate plants await you at the north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus, open until 3 pm.
LOG HOUSE MUSEUM: Visit the home of West Seattle’s history, noon-4 pm. (61st SW & SW Stevens)
NORTHWEST WINE ACADEMY TASTING ROOM: 1-6 pm, open in the north lot of South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor).
MEETUP/LISTENING PARTY AT EASY STREET: 3:30 pm, meet-and-greet and EP listening party with Meg Smith, purchase required for the meet-and-greet, at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW)
VISCON CELLARS: Season’s just right for this cozy tasting room/wine bar, open for wine by the glass or bottle – 5-9 pm – at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor).
FOOTBALL: Two games tonight at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle) – West Seattle HS (2-3) vs. Lakeside at 4:30 pm, Chief Sealth IHS (4-1) vs. Cleveland at 7:30 pm.
BENEFIT SHOW FOR/AT THE SKYLARK: Doors 7 pm, music 8 pm, Rain City Rewind, Pirate Radio, The Justin DePaola Band playing to raise money for The Skylark‘s light-rail-required move, $10 suggested donation, 21+. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
KENYON HALL CABARET: 7 pm drag show, limited tickets at the door. (7904 35th SW)
SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE: 7-9 pm, monthly showcase at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor).
AT THE SPOT: Fridays are Live Artist Showcase nights at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way), 7-10 pm.
THE SLAGS: Local faves live at West Seattle Brewing (4415 Fauntleroy Way SW), 8 pm, no cover.
MAKE IT LOUD: Tonight’s bands at Southgate Roller Rink are Danava, Whythre, Melancholia. 9 pm doors, $18 cover, $5 skates, 21+. (9646 17th SW)
REVELRY ROOM DJ: 9 pm, DJ Chocolate Chuck tonight! (4547 California SW)
JARAY’S DJ: 9 pm, DJ Buzsy at Jaray’s Lounge (2216 SW Orchard).
Are we missing anything? If you have something else to add to our event lists and calendar, please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
(WSB photo, 2023 West Seattle Ski Swap)
If you have skis, snowboards, and/or other gear to sell at this weekend’s West Seattle Ski Swap, but you’re not registered yet, hurry and get it done – 6 pm tonight is the deadline for signups. Here’s where to go to do that; the window for dropping off your item(s) is 3-7 pm today. The dropoff, and Ski Swap, location is the VFW Hall at 3601 SW Alaska (across the street from Ski Swap sponsor Mountain to Sound Outfitters); sale hours are 10-5 tomorrow and 10-4 Sunday (October 12-13).
6:02 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Friday, October 11th.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
Sunny weekend, but first, clouds are forecast for today, high in the low 60s. Today’s sunrise will be at 7:23 am, while sunset will be at 6:27 pm.
(Wednesday sunset at Lincoln Park, photo by Rob Christian)
NO SCHOOL
Most students are out of school today because of a staff in-service day.
ROAD WORK
*The Highway 99 tunnel will close for maintenance and inspections 10 pm tonight to 6 am Sunday – as its first “six-year inspection” is completed (explained here).
*That’s just one of several major closures around the region this weekend – the others are further from West Seattle, but you might still need to know, so here’s the full list.
*The Admiral Way Bridge seismic project continues; the north half of the bridge remains closed, with one lane each way on the south side, until the project switches sides later this month, exact date TBA. Fairmount Avenue remains closed under the bridge.
*The Delridge pedestrian-bridge earthquake-safety project also continues, with narrowing at Delridge/Oregon.
TRANSIT
Washington State Ferries today – 2 boats on the Triangle Route, plus the “unscheduled third boat.” Check for alerts here.
Metro buses today – Regular schedule.
Water Taxi today – Regular schedule. Summer season is ending – tonight’s the last night with later sailings, until spring.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Spokane Street Viaduct – This view usually looks westward, with eastbound lanes at left and westbound lanes at right:
Low Bridge – Looking west:
1st Avenue South Bridge:
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.
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!
2:56 AM: What you see in the lower left of that cropped zoomed-in shot from a traffic camera is a flipped car involved in a two-car collision on the westbound side of SW Roxbury at 30th SW. Police are telling dispatch that nobody’s at the scene, and at least one of the cars, a Kia Soul, is stolen. The other car, a Hyundai Elantra, has not been reported as stolen, but they’ll be checking with its owner.
3:51 AM: Tow crews and police have just cleared the scene. Meantime, thanks to the reader who sent that pic of the crash scene before police got there (and after everyone fled) – from it, we see the Soul was the flipped vehicle.
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
Though the motion approved by a Sound Transit Board committee today recommends the West Seattle light-rail “project to be built,” committee members needed to be amply reassured that their vote was not a commitment that it will be built.
They got that reassurance from Terri Mestas, ST’s deputy CEO of megaproject delivery. She told System Expansion Committee members the board would have other milestone votes before a commitment to construction, while stressing that moving the project further along the design path was the only way to resolve some of the concerns.
Committee chair King County Councilmember Claudia Balducci of Bellevue observed that there are “some big questions besides cost.” But it’s the potential $7 billion price tag, which emerged with the Final Environmental Impact Statement last month, that hung in the air throughout the discussion.
7:05 PM: As it gets dark, the factors remain promising for aurora visibility again! West Seattle skywatcher/educator Alice Enevoldsen has updated her aurora-viewing tips. West Seattle photographer Kevin Freitas sent a community invitation:
Join me tonight ~8:45pm down on Alki (64th & Alki) for some aurora viewing. This area has a great view to the north that’s relatively dark from city light pollution. Regardless, looking at photos from the east coast and elsewhere, this could be a good one and visible from wherever you are. I’ll be the guy in the bright yellow stocking cap. Bundle up because it could be cold down there!
We’ll update as the evening progresses.
7:54 PM: First photo in, via text, from a Junction-area rooftop:
Geomagnetic activity is currently well into “storm level” per this page.
8:59 PM: Alki seems to be the viewing spot of choice. Carol Ann Joyce sent this photo, one of several we’ve received from people at the beach (thank you!):
9:58 PM: Two more photos from Alki – first, from the VanCooten family:
And from Kevin Freitas, who, as mentioned above, went to the beach to lead a viewing/photo session:
10:14 PM: Also from Alki, Rosalie Miller just sent this:
6:10 PM: Our first stop on tonight’s West Seattle Art Walk – Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor), where Jessie Summa Russo is the guest artist. She’s highlighting work made with oil and cold wax on collage. And in addition to Viscon wines – you’ll find a table full of snacks (while they last):
From North Admiral to Morgan Junction, you have many choices for tonight’s Art Walk – see the map here, and venues’ featured artists here! Plus the Art of Music‘s three mini-concerts, until 7:45.
6:37 PM: Our second stop was one of the Art of Music hosts, Alki Arts (6030 California SW):
Terra Nova Duo is serenading Art Walk-ers there, while gallery proprietor Diane Venti hosts a multi-artist show – more on that, and photos, shortly!
6:53 PM: Diane explained that she chose “Rising Above” as the theme of the show – and the participating artists rose to the challenge.
Joanne Shellan (above) explains that she took inspiration from literally rising above – a flight in a private plane piloted by a friend. The work of Steffanie Lorig (below) is symbolic – “each animal represents strength, hope, and resilience.”
Also participating in the Alki Arts show – with a reception until 8 tonight – are Lisa Lamoureux and Steve Jensen.
We’ve been mentioning that SDOT says “a bit” of work remains to be done for the Spokane Street Viaduct resurfacing project (the SSV is the extension of the West Seattle Bridge between Highway 99 and I-5). SDOT told us late today that some of that work will be done overnight tonight, so one lane closure is planned, the inside left westbound lane, 8 pm to 6 am.
(Added: WSB photo, from South Delridge)
Just in case you missed Wednesday’s hubbub about three U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopters from Joint Base Lewis McChord circling in our area, the base finally officially confirmed they were training for a flyover at tonight’s Seahawks game. The game’s about half an hour away and the helicopters are back; we just saw them flying eastward over White Center.
(Added: Photo by Jerry Simmons)
(WSB file photo)
Five months ago, we reported on Cupcake Royale‘s statement that they would eventually close its West Seattle cafés (and its others). No timeline, at the time. Now there is one – next Monday is CR’s last WS day. Here’s the announcement we received from proprietor Jody Hall:
Thank you and farewell West Seattle!
We are closing our West Seattle location. Our last day is Monday, October 14.
Come visit us!A love note from Jody – founder & ceo:
Thank you. We’ve called this corner in the Alaska Junction home for 19 years. Thanks for being a part of our journey and story. Thank you for including us into your family and celebrations. It’s been an absolute honor and pleasure to have been a part of the West Seattle community. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!
West Seattle was our third location in as many years after opening one of the nation’s first cupcake shops in 2003. You may recall that we announced earlier this year that we planned to close our locations once we found new tenants to take over our leases. We did this because we knew we wouldn’t survive if we continued business as usual.
Don’t fret! Cupcake Royale will still be making the city’s best cupcakes! While we’re closing our cafes (Madrona is still open – our last of the original cafes), we are NOT CLOSING Cupcake Royale. In fact, we’re expanding. We’re opening a new location on Capitol Hill (1102 E Pike Street & 11th) – across from the old Cupcake Royale locations. It’s 300sf vs 3,000sf. Our bakery in South Park (a hop-skip from West Seattle!) is also open to the public for pre-order pick ups. In fact, we’re excited to narrow our focus and team on just cupcakes – made every day, from scratch with real ingredients–from the oven to your belly.
SO COME VISIT US IN WEST SEATTLE – OUR LAST DAY IS MONDAY OCT 14!
Jody will be at the cafe over the weekend to say thanks – open 10a to 5p thru Monday. Come by and grab a box to enjoy and share with pals. We’ll have a yard sale of some classic merch and other treasures too. We’d love to see you and thank you for the love.
We invite you to continue to support our business!
Order online at CupcakeRoyale.com.
Pre-order the day before for best pricing!
Delivery available in Seattle & Bellevue.
Visit our Cafe in Capitol Hill: 1102 E Pike St
Visit our Bakery in South Park: 1605 S 93rd St
Keep it Royale West Seattle!
Thank you!
Jody
We’re following up on what’s ahead for the space.
USPS just delivered the 111-page voters’ pamphlet for the general election, a reminder that voting begins in a week. King County Elections starts sending ballots next Wednesday (October 16); KCE ballot dropboxes open next Thursday (October 17). Here’s the list of what will be on your ballot:
RACES WITH CANDIDATES (click that link for the lists with links to candidate info)
US President & Vice President (10 options)
U.S. Senator (2 candidates)
Congressional District 7, U.S. Representative (2 candidates)
Washington State, Governor (2 candidates)
Washington State, Lt. Governor (2 candidates)
Washington State, Secretary of State (2 candidates)
Washington State, State Treasurer (2 candidates)
Washington State, State Auditor (2 candidates)
Washington State, Attorney General (2 candidates)
Washington State, Commissioner of Public Lands (2 candidates)
Washington State, Superintendent of Public Instruction (2 candidates)
Washington State, Insurance Commissioner (2 candidates)
Legislative District 34, State Representative Pos. 1 (2 candidates)
Legislative District 34, State Representative Pos. 2 (2 candidates)
State Supreme Court, Justice Position No. 2 (2 candidates)
State Supreme Court, Justice Position No. 8 (1 candidate)
State Supreme Court, Justice Position No. 9 (1 candidate)
State Court of Appeals, Division 1, District 1 Judge Position No. 4 (1 candidate)
State Court of Appeals, Division 1, District 1 Judge Position No. 7 (1 candidate)
King County Superior Court, Judge Position 41 (2 candidates)
City of Seattle, Council Position No. 8 (2 candidates)
BALLOT MEASURES (click that link for the lists with links to measure info – the very short descriptions below are from that page)
State Initiative Measure No. 2066 (regulating energy services, including natural gas and electrification)
State Initiative Measure No. 2109 (taxes)
State Initiative Measure No. 2117 (carbon-tax-credit trading)
State Initiative Measure No. 2124 (state longterm-care insurance)
City of Seattle Proposition No. 1 (property tax levy renewal for transportation)
So, you have 26 decisions to make on your ballot. We’ll take closer looks at the local races and issues in the days ahead.
Back in July, after this year’s Alki Art Fair, we reported that paintings had been stolen from at least two participating artists. This week, after almost three months, half a dozen stolen paintings mysteriously reappeared and are being returned to the artists. We just received that news from Elizabeth Rudrud of the Southwest Seattle Historical Society‘s Log House Museum (which is on Alki, about a block and a half inland from where the fair was held). She tells WSB via email:
This week, I found, and am in the process of returning to the artists, six canvas paintings that were stolen during Alki Art Fair.
Tuesday, I arrived at the Log House Museum and found six canvas paintings placed behind a bench on our protected porch. I initially thought someone had left these as an anonymous donation for the museum, which, as this is a good opportunity to remind your readers, is always, always discouraged and doing so creates significant work for museum staff.
It was immediately apparent, however, that these paintings were not intended as a museum donation. Taped to the back of one of the canvases was a note that said “Return Paintings to Artist” with two artist names. The paintings appear in great condition. I found their websites, confirmed that these were in fact stolen artworks, and contacted the artists.
It is likely the person who initially stole these original paintings, or someone close to them, who made the right decision to return them and correctly believed that our historical society would assist. I am glad that I found these before a passerby decided to take them or weather damage occurred.
Richard Jahn picked up his paintings yesterday and described how devastated he was when they were taken. He said it felt as though he lost a family member. I have been in contact with the second artist and these will be returned to her soon.
We don’t know if that leaves any other stolen paintings unaccounted for, but will try to find out.
Two major events lead our Thursday list:
WEST SEATTLE LIGHT-RAIL ROUTING: As we reported last Friday, the Sound Transit board’s System Expansion Committee is scheduled to consider routing and station locations for the West Seattle Link Extension today. Here again is the resolution laying out the staff recommendation. The committee meets at Union Station on the south side of downtown (401 S. Jackson) at 1:30 pm; the agenda explains how to comment, either in-person or remotely, as well as how to watch/attend the meeting.
WEST SEATTLE ART WALK, WITH MUSIC: Second Thursday of the month is West Seattle Art Walk night! Tonight starts the fall quarter – which means a new walking map/list of participating venues, including the ones offering food/drink specials to Art Walk’ers:
To see who’s having artist receptions tonight, check out the October preview. Most are 5-8 pm but some venues are keeping different hours … Also, The Art of Music is back with three free mini-concerts, 6 pm-7:45 pm, as shown here – Sue Quigley at West Seattle Realty (2715 California SW; WSB sponsor), Cami Voss at Jet City Labs (4547 California SW), and Terra Nova Duo at Alki Arts (6030 California SW).
Now, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, here are other highlights for the rest of today/tonight:
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: Shop fall plants at the center, open Thursdays-Saturdays 10 am-3 pm, north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus. Annuals, perennials, sun, shade, natives, edibles, ground covers … wide variety!
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LUNCHEON: 11:30-1 pm at West Seattle Golf Course (4470 35th SW), this month’s focus is “Empowering DEIAB – Cultural Humility Strategies.”
WEST SEATTLE UKULELE PLAYERS: All levels welcome to this weekly 1 pm gathering. Email westseattleukuleleplayerswsup@gmail.com for info on where they’re playing today.
STRONG BODIES, STRONG BONES: 2:30 pm yoga class at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon).
SPORTS: Both high-school girls’ teams play locally today – WSHS (1-7-1) plays Seattle Academy at 4 pm at Delridge Playfield (4458 Delridge Way SW); CSIHS (4-2-4) takes on Ingraham at 4:30 pm at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle).
HPCS FOOD-TRUCK VISIT: Every Thursday, 4-8 pm, Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) gets a food-truck visit. Tonight it’s Delfino’s Chicago Pizza.
OPEN HOUSE: Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic School (34th/Myrtle) invites prospective families to visit, 4:30 pm-6:30 pm.
UNDER-21 OPEN MIC: The monthly open mic presented by Mode Music Studios (WSB sponsor) next door at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW), optional theme “costumes.” Signups at 5, performances at 6.
VISCON CELLARS: In addition to participating in tonight’s West Seattle Art Walk (with a reception for featured artist Jessie Summa Russo), the West Seattle winery’s tasting room/wine bar is open 5-9 pm (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor) for wine by the glass or bottle!
‘ORCA RESCUE!’ AUTHOR: Donna Sandstrom tells the story of Springer – and more – as the Southwest Seattle Historical Society‘s featured Words, Writers, Southwest Stories speaker this month, 6 pm online. Here’s our preview; here’s the RSVP page, to get the link to watch/listen.
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fauntleroy for a group walk in Lincoln Park – details in our calendar listing.
WESTIES RUN CLUB: New meeting spot for the 6 pm weekly run – now from Future Primitive on Alki (2536 Alki SW).
HIGHLAND PARK RUN CLUB: 6:30 pm, meet at Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) for a 3-mile run through the neighborhood. (Walking option, too!)
VOLLEYBALL: One home match tonight, Chief Sealth IHS (8-1) hosts Rainier Beach, 7 pm. (2600 SW Thistle)
TRIVIA: 7 pm at Burger Planet (9614 14th SW).
Planning an event that should be on our calendar and in our daily preview lists? Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
The Boeing Employees Choir, which rehearses in West Seattle, is inviting singers to any of three upcoming open rehearsals. Despite the name, you do not have to be a Boeing employee to join. The rehearsals are at American Legion Post 160 (3618 SW Alaska), at 6:30 pm October 15, 22, and 29. If you’re interested in participating on one of those dates, they’d love to hear from you at president@boeingchoir.org – but RSVP isn’t mandatory. The choir has openings in all sections; read more about it here.
6:01 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Thursday, October 10th.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
Increasing sunshine, high in the low 60s. Today’s sunrise will be at 7:22 am, while sunset will be at 6:29 pm.
NOTE FOR TOMORROW
Most students will be out of school Friday because of a staff in-service today.
ROAD WORK
*The Highway 99 tunnel will close for maintenance and inspections 10 pm Friday (October 11) to 6 am Sunday (October 13) – as its first “six-year inspection” is completed (explained here).
*The Admiral Way Bridge seismic project continues; the north half of the bridge remains closed, with one lane each way on the south side, until the project switches sides later this month, exact date TBA. Fairmount Avenue remains closed under the bridge.
*The Delridge pedestrian-bridge earthquake-safety project also continues, with narrowing at Delridge/Oregon.
TRANSIT
Washington State Ferries today – 2 boats on the Triangle Route, plus the “unscheduled third boat.” Check for alerts here.
Metro buses today – Regular schedule.
Water Taxi today – Regular schedule. Summer season is ending – which means no more later Friday/Saturday sailings until spring.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Spokane Street Viaduct – This view usually looks westward, with eastbound lanes at left and westbound lanes at right:
Low Bridge – Looking west:
1st Avenue South Bridge:
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.
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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