King County Sheriff’s detectives announced Friday (Aug. 27) that they are seeking the public’s help in solving a 2001 White Center homicide that occurred on Aug. 28, 2001, exactly nine years ago Saturday.
Specifically, they at least hope to find the White Center house where the suspect took the victim and her sister prior to fatally shooting one of them on a street corner.
Case History: Crystal Vaughn (age 29 at the time) and her sister Misty were drinking beer at a bus stop in White Center when they were contacted by the suspect. They went back to the suspect’s house for a drink. An argument ensued and the sisters were driven back to the area of SW 101st and 15th Ave SW.
The argument continued between the suspect and Crystal. The sisters were out of the man’s car and walking away when he pulled up next to them and shot Crystal three times. She died at the scene.
Click map to see larger version.
Suspect’s Residence: The house was about a mile or so away from where the women were first approached, generally in the area of the 3700 block of SW 106th, unincorporated King County in the White Center neighborhood.
The women were asked to remove their shoes when they came in. The man said his “niece was sleeping” and to they had to be quiet. The interior of the house was neat and tidy, and there were children’s toys in the house.
There was a large stereo and a CD collection, as well as a free standing stove or fireplace in the living room. The women were served brandy to drink.
Click sketch to see larger version.
Suspect Description: A black male about 27 to 35 years old. He was “big” and 6’ to 6” 3” tall. He smoked Marlboro Red cigarettes.
Click sketch to see larger version.
Vehicle Description: A black or possible dark green SUV, similar to a Chev Tahoe. There was a dolphin display on the stereo face. The front seat might have been a “bench seat” and the seats were possibly leather.
Click sketch to see larger version.
The public can also view other drawings on KCSO’s website beginning this afternoon.
Anyone with information, especially on the house, is asked to call the King County Sheriff’s Office at (206) 296-3311 (24 hours) or 9-1-1.
The King County Public Health Department announced Thursday (Aug. 26) that it had closed Asian Bubble Tea, located 9835 16th Ave SW in White Center, for “improper preparation and service of foods under their current Risk 2 permit classification.”
According to the statement, “the Person in Charge of the establishment has not upgraded facility nor obtained a Risk 3 permit classification to accommodate new menu items including preparation of raw foods and cooking equipment. The food establishment will be reopened when the inspector confirms that all issues have been resolved.”
King County Health has varying “risk levels” for food vendors, and says “the more complex the menu and preparation of foods, the higher the risk level, which in turn relates to more frequent inspection of your establishment.”
It classifies “Risk 2″ as:
This risk level is assigned to a permit that allows food processing steps such as receiving, storing, preparing, cold holding, and serving potentially hazardous foods. It does not include hot holding of food. It includes limited preparation steps, such as baking bread, frying donuts, and grilling or toasting sandwiches for immediate service. Examples of this type of operation include on-site baking, making smoothies with raw ingredients (fruit, eggs, etc.), opening ready to eat prepackaged foods for heating or service, cooking waffle cones or cake mixes. Grocery stores with pre-packaged raw meat, poultry, or seafood are also included. These operations receive one routine inspection and one educational visit each year with the exception of schools which receive two routine inspections.
Here’s the full news release:
Asian Bubble Tea located at 9835 16th Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98106 was closed by a Public Health food inspector on August 26, 2010 at 1:15 pm for improper preparation and service of foods under their current Risk 2 permit classification. The Person in Charge of the establishment has not upgraded facility nor obtained a Risk 3 permit classification to accommodate new menu items including preparation of raw foods and cooking equipment. The food establishment will be reopened when the inspector confirms that all issues have been resolved.
Risk levels and permit classifications are explained at www.kingcounty.gov/healthservices/health/ehs/foodsafety/FoodBusiness
The Food Establishment Closures homepage is online at www.kingcounty.gov/healthservices/health/ehs/foodsafety/inspections/closures
According to the Pierce County Emergency Management (PCWARN), the two loud explosions heard just before 2pm Tuesday (Aug. 17) were confirmed by the FAA to be from two F-15s intercepting an aircraft breaching the presidential no-fly zone (President Obama was in Seattle).
911 dispatch centers in Pierce County were temporarily overwhelmed by calls from citizens but were never off line. All dispatch centers remain fully operational.
Our sister site The B-Town Blog filed the following report:
Numerous Readers, along with this Reporter, heard two rather large explosions on Tuesday afternoon (Aug. 17) around 1:50pm.
Initial Reader responses indicate that the sounds were heard in Eagle Landing Park, Three Tree Point, SW 148th and Ambaum (where it made a witnesses’ “door and window move”), Des Moines, and as far away as Federal Way.
Here’s what Rebecca Dare wrote us:
Around 1:50 p.m. there were two big booms (sort of like double-booms spaced apart). It shook our house and seemed like an earthquake. We headed out into the street and could hear a possible jet far away — don’t know if they were sonic booms or not. But I’ve never heard or felt anything like that that wasn’t an earthquake. Have you heard anything from anyone else?
Jm Branson wrote:
Two booms shook my windows near Eagle Landing Park. My friend said they rattled her house in Federal Way.
My guess is military planes in association with Obama’s visit.
Cassandra wrote:
I am at SW 148th and Ambaum and it was strong enough to make my doors and windows move!
Shelby wrote:
We are over at SW 114th and Ambaum and our doors and windows were shaken as well. No idea what it was though.
Our first thought was a series of short, sharp earthquakes, but the sonic boom theory may be more plausible, as President Obama is in town, which means that accompanying fighter jets may have cause sonic booms.
We just received word from the Washington State Patrol, which says:
Washington State Patrol is reporting the loud booms heard over the South King County area minutes ago is possibly resulting from a Sonic Boom. Residents are encouraged not to call 9-1-1 in regards to this event.
Any questions, you may call Normandy Park Police Department at 206-248-7600.
Also, KING5 is reporting on their Facebook Page:
If you heard/felt the booms this afternoon – the FAA says they are sonic booms from military aircraft in the area.
So…did YOU hear them? Where were you? And what did it sound like to you? Please leave a Comment below:
The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency issued a warning for “high levels of ozone pollution (smog) for both King and Pierce counties, and are forecasting levels to reach “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG)” category this weekend as the region comes under the influence of a hot and stagnant weather pattern.
Here’s the warning:
High levels of ozone pollution (smog) are being forecast by the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency for the Cascade foothills of King and Pierce counties and are expected to reach the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG)” category this weekend as the region comes under the influence of a hot and stagnant weather pattern.
Exposure to ground-level ozone can trigger asthma attacks, make breathing difficult, exacerbate lung and heart problems and weaken the immune system. The Washington State Department of Health recommends that people who are sensitive to air pollution limit time spent outdoors. Air pollution is especially harmful to children, people with heart and lung problems, and adults over age 65.
Smoggy conditions will mostly impact communities in the Cascade foothills of King and Pierce counties. These outlying suburban and rural areas accumulate pollution generated by traffic and activities in the urban areas of Everett, Seattle and Tacoma.
Fine particle pollution levels are also rising, and are likely to reach the ?Moderate? category in most areas throughout the Puget Sound region.
Elevated pollution levels are expected to last at least through Tuesday.
Monitor current ozone levels at http://www.pscleanair.org/airq/aqiozone.aspx#.
To learn about the extended air quality forecast, read our forecast discussion at: http://www.pscleanair.org/fcstdisc.aspx.
Minimizing summertime ozone takes year-round effort. It’s changing everyday behaviors that can add up to cleaner, less smoggy air. To learn more about smog and what you can to lessen the pollution leading up to it, visit www.pscleanair.org/airq/basics/weather/smog.aspx.
| Aug |
| 15 |
| 1:00 pm |
Highline/SeaTac Botanical Gardens will be hosting their annual “Ice Cream Social and Plant Sale” on Sunday, Aug. 15th, with special guest Ciscoe Morris and FREE ice cream to the first 300 guests.
Here are the details:
WHAT: Ice Cream Social & Plant Sale with Ciscoe Morris.
WHEN: Sunday, August 15, 2010, 1:00pm to 4:00pm.
WHERE: Highline/SeaTac Botanical Gardens, located at 13735 24th Ave S, SeaTac, WA 98168.
INFO: From a flier (download PDF here):
Join us in the garden on Sunday, August 15th for our 4th annual Ice Cream Social.
This year’s Celebrity Guest will again be Ciscoe Morris, who hosts “Gardening with Ciscoe” on KIRO 97.3 FM radio and KING 5/NWCN television, and is the author of the best-selling garden tome, “Ask Ciscoe”, as well as a weekly column in the Seattle Times.
Ciscoe’s topic will be “Create a Hummingbird Haven in a Pot or Garden ”
The fun starts at 1:00 p.m., with Ciscoe taking center stage in the Celebration Rose Garden at around 2:30 p.m.
Local nurseries & designers will plant 10 gorgeous pots. Register to vote for your favorite container & get a chance to take it home for free. Door prizes & free ice cream to the first 300 guests!
More information: www.highlinegarden.org or 206-391-4003.
Other featured events include:
- Silent Auction
Bid on a variety of great items including two Aw Pots personally planted by Ciscoe, a room at SeaTac’s Radisson Hotel, a sightseeing flight around Seattle with pilot Warren Hendrickson, an original oil painting by Kathy Wyckoff, garden art, garden tools, a complete bird-gardening kit, and more!- “Humm-dingers!!!”
Local nurseries and designers will again plant up 10 gorgeous pots donated by Aw Pottery. This year’s theme is plants that attract hummingbirds. Just show up and register to vote for your favorite container and get a chance to take it home for FREE!!! HGBF members get two extra chances to win! Memberships will be on sale the day of the event.Participating designers and nurseries include Clinton Bamboo Growers, Design of the Times, Dogwood Design, Minter’s Earlington Greenhouse and Nursery, Furney’s, West Seattle Nursery, Herr Backyard Garden Center, and Branches Garden Center.
- Free Aw Pottery Pot to first 40 new members!
Be one of the first forty people to join the Highline Botanical Garden Foundation during the event and receive a gorgeous, frost-proof Aw Pottery pot! (NOTE: IF YOU PLAN ON ENTERING THE CONTEST, BRING A VEHICLE LARGE ENOUGH TO TAKE HOME YOUR WINNINGS! THE PLANTED POTS ARE BETWEEN 24″ AND 36″ TALL AND MAY WEIGH AS MUCH AS 75 POUNDS!)- Door Prizes Galore!!!
Register to win two free passes to the 2010 NW Flower and Garden Show, a “Cascadia” compost bin from the City of SeaTac, and gift packages from Benson’s Best Bites, Hey Paison, The Tin Room Bar and Grill, 909 Coffee and Wine, Vino Bello, Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub, and Elliot Bay Brewpub.- Free Ice Cream to the first 300 guests!
Please join us in the garden for an afternoon of the very best in gardening “edu-tainment”, ice cream, and of course, brussels sprouts!
For directions to the garden, click here.
Got Green and the Laborers International Union of North America (LIUNA) did a demo of their plans to “recycle” an abandoned house Wednesday morning (July 21) in White Center, with 14 participants ranging in age from 19 to 55.
This project utilizes federal stimulus dollars provided through a Dept. of Labor “Pathways Out of Poverty” training grant to prepare low income communities for livable wage jobs in Green Construction industries.
Got Green is also preparing graduates to become ambassadors for home weatherization and other solutions to climate change in their own communities.
The house used for training is scheduled for demolition on the future site of the Strength of Place Initiative (SOPI) Village affordable housing development. Program graduates (all low-income workers of color) hope to provide weatherization services to Seattle area homeowners and small businesses under the “Weatherize Every Building” project being launched by the City of Seattle this fall.
Got Green (a local grassroots organization that promotes Green Jobs, Energy Efficiency, and Racial Justice) is organizing this Home Weatherization training to promote the movement for Green Collar Jobs as the best way to fight poverty and global warming at the same time. Got Green is Seattle’s home-grown branch of the national movement for equity and opportunity in the new Green Economy.
More info on Got Green is available here.
Photographer Francis Zera was there to capture the following Photo Slideshow:
Click to Play Francis Zera’s Photo Slideshow
King County Parks announced Friday (July 16) that a damaged pedestrian footbridge at White Center Heights Park will be closed for at least one month while crews inspect the structure and engineers develop a plan for repairs.
According to the release:
The bridge, which was constructed across a small bog in September 2009 as part of a series of improvements to the park, lost several bolts that connect elements of the structure together.
King County Parks crews have closed access to the footbridge and have placed signs alerting pedestrians of the closure.
The bridge was built by Sahale LLC in a project led by the Cascade Land Conservancy, with funding provided by the Washington State Community Trade and Economic Development Grant Program and assistance from the White Center Community Development Association.
White Center Heights Park received the “Ultimate Parks Makeover” in 2007, thanks to generous donations by the Starbucks Coffee Company. More than 1,500 volunteers donated their time and sweat to turn what had been 5 ½ acres of overgrown and underused land into a popular community gathering space that features a picnicking area, pig roasting pit, community garden area, open play field and walking trails.
by Jack Mayne
Seattle City Council President Richard Conlin says financing for a new South Park Bridge is 75 percent complete thanks to money promised from the Seattle City Council and other public resources.
“In mid-June all nine members of the (Seattle) City Council have signed a letter to King County Executive Dow Constantine pledging $15 million towards replacing the South Park Bridge,” Conlin wrote in his newsletter. “This was the first concrete pledge towards meeting . . . Constantine’s goal of funding the replacement. The King County Council quickly added $30 million in county funds, and the State, Port, and Puget Sound Regional Council have added another $52 million in pledges.
“Together, these pledges make up almost 75 percent of the $130.8 million estimated cost of the project,” he said. “Given the favorable contracting environment, it is quite possible that the county will be able to go out to bid if the federal government can be persuaded to add $20 to $30 million.”
The bridge was closed on June 30 because the 80-year old bridge was damaged beyond repair during the 2001 Nisqually earthquake. Because the bridge spans a navigable waterway, it must be left open until it is removed so that shipping from upstream on the Duwamish River can move to and from Elliott Bay. Drivers from Burien and White Center and beyond must either use First Avenue South or another route into Seattle.
Attempts to get money from federal financial stimulus programs have so far failed.
Conlin says he is proud the Seattle City Council was the first to make a “concrete commitment” for money to replace the bridge. In addition, the councilmember says Seattle has “sponsored action” by the Puget Sound Regional Council for an additional $9 million “from out share of a possible future federal jobs bill, and the City has spent nearly $1 million in support of King County’s environmental review and design of the replacement bridge.”
He said the Council is “also promising to not submit or support any competing applications” future federal stimulus grants.
The Seattle City Council President says the City does not have an identifiable source for the $15 million it has pledged, and he suggests it could come from a voter approved bond issue known as Bridging The Gap, a fund used for special project including filling Seattle’s plethora of potholes, a fund already used by a mayor and Council grasping for money to fill a huge budget gap.
“There will always be competing priorities, but we are making this commitment because the South Park community needs our help and support,” Conlin says. “The South Park Bridge also plays a critical role in freight mobility and economic vitality for the city and region. The Council believes that Seattle must not only ensure the economic health of Seattle and our neighborhoods, but play a positive role in ensuring regional prosperity.”
The bridge is on a County island and is County property. The City has indicated an interest in annexing the unincorporated area, but only after the County replaces the bridge.
Put down those matches folks – King County announced Wednesday (July 14) that it will enact a burn ban beginning Thursday, July 15, and running through Sept. 30th.
Here’s the full announcement posted on their website:
Fire marshal calls for burn ban
In concert with the Washington State Department of Natural Resources and Pierce, Mason and Snohomish Counties, King County has called a Phase 1 burn ban to take effect at 8 a.m. Thursday, July 15 and will run through Sept. 30. This burn ban applies throughout King County in both the incorporated and unincorporated areas.
Forest and yard debris burning is not allowed under a Phase 1 ban. This burn ban does not apply to federal forests or national parks, although these jurisdictions may have similar restrictions in effect.
This Phase 1 burn ban still allows recreational campfires in approved fire pits. However, campfires and fire pits are allowed only if they are located on private land with the landowner’s permission and if built according to the specifications below. These fires must:
- Be built in a metal or concrete fire pit, such as those typically found in designated campgrounds;
- Grow no larger than three feet across;
- Be located in a clear spot free from any vegetation for at least 10 feet in a horizontal direction, including a 20-foot vertical clearance from overhanging branches; and
- Be attended at all times by an alert individual with immediate access to a shovel and either five gallons of water or a connected and charged water hose.
“With local temperatures rising, we have called this burn ban to protect public health and safety during the summer months,” King County Fire Marshal Jim Chan said, announcing the burn ban. “This ban will be in effect throughout the summer and will be lifted on Sept. 30.”
For more information on local fire restrictions, the public can call the King County Fire Marshal Division at 206-296-6763 or 1-800-323-BURN. To monitor the status of this burn ban, consult the Fire Marshal Website.
The National Weather Service issued a “Heat Advisory” for the northwest on Tuesday (July 6), as the summer season gets “switched on,” with temps predicted to hit highs around 90 degrees or so toward the end of the week.
First, the weather service’s advisory in its full glory:
Statement as of 3:23 PM PDT on July 06, 2010
… The first stretch of hot weather is expected across western Washington this week…
The cool and moist onshore flow pattern which dominated western Washington weather through the Fourth of July has come to an end this week… as a strong upper level ridge and offshore develop over the area. Offshore flow will increase tonight and Wednesday helping maximum temperatures to rise into the 80s to mid 90s the next few days.
Latest computer models indicate that the upper level ridge will weaken this weekend and onshore flow will return. This is the more typical onshore flow we see during the Summer that helps to moderate the warmest weather patterns. Although temperatures will cool down a little this weekend… they will remain warmer than normal.
Temperatures in the 80s to mid 90s can cause some heat related health problems even in western Washington. As temperatures climb into the 90s… sunstroke… heat cramps and heat exhaustion are possible with prolonged exposure and/or physical activity. This is especially true for the elderly. Some precautions that will reduce the risk of heat related illness include but are not limited to… reducing strenuous activity… wear lightweight and light colored clothing… and drink plenty of water or other non-alcoholic fluids. Also… never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles during hot weather.
***The following are the record high temperatures and year of occurrence for select locations. Refer to the forecast for the expected high temperatures on these dates.***
Wednesday /Thursday /Friday
Sea-tac 88 (1953) 87 (1985,52) 91 (1985)
Olympia 95 (1953) 94 (1952) 95 (1985)
Bellingham 88 (1953) 85 (1952) 85 (1979,52)
Quillayute 80 (1996) 82 (1968) 85 (2007)
Hoquium 81 (1996) 87 (1956) 83 (2002)
Sandpoint 82 (1996) 82 (2006) 81 (2003)
And now, some ways to beat the heat, along with some common sense tips:
1. If you don’t have air conditioning, find a cool place to hang out. King County Library branches have air conditioning, as does the Greenbridge Community Center, along with most local coffeeshops and numerous publicly-accessible buildings around the area.
2. Red Cross Safety Tips:
With temperatures expected to rise this week, the American Red Cross encourages individuals and families to take the necessary precautions. The very young and the elderly are especially vulnerable to the heat, so it is important that families and friends check on them regularly.People with chronic health issues are also at greater risk and need to take special care to stay healthy in the heat.
Prevent Heat-Related Illness:
- Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing (light colors reflect away some of the sun’s energy) and plenty of sunscreen. Wear a hat or use an umbrella to help shield you from the sun.
- Carry water or juice and drink frequently, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body. Make sure to check on youth and elderly to make sure they have enough fluids.
- Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein, which increases metabolic heat.
- Avoid using salt tablets unless directed by a physician.
- Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do something physically demanding, try to do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually between 4:00 and 7:00 a.m. Take regular breaks to cool off.
- Stay indoors as much as possible.
- Be vigilant about water safety if headed to a pool or beach. Never leave a child unattended near water and keep lifesaving gear handy.
- Watch for signs of life-threatening heat stroke. The person’s temperature control system, which produces sweating to cool the body, stops working. The body temperature can rise so high that brain damage and death may result if the body is not cooled quickly.
- Signals of heat stroke include hot, red, and usually dry skin, changes in consciousness, rapid, weak pulse and rapid, shallow breathing.
- If you or someone you know experience symptoms, call 9-1-1 or your local EMS number. Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the body by wrapping wet sheets around the body and fan it. If you have ice packs or cold packs, place them on each of the victim’s wrists and ankles, in the armpits and on the neck to cool the large blood vessels. Watch for signals of breathing problems and make sure the airway is clear. Keep the person lying down.
- Don’t forget to protect your pets.
- Limit exercise to the coolest part of the day, typically early in the morning. Even in the coolest part of the day, watch for signs of trouble. Glassy eyes and frantic panting indicate a dog needs help.
- Make sure your pet has constant access to shade and an endless supply of cool, clean water.
- Never leave a pet in a car – even for a few minutes.
- Be vigilant for signs of heat stroke, which is deadly for pets. Symptoms include sluggish and non-responsive demeanor, bright red and/or dry tongue and gums, vomiting or diarrhea and/or unusual breathing patter, heavy panting, or high heart rate. If your pet displays these symptoms, get emergency medical attention.
by The long-dreaded day of reckoning for commuters who used South Park Bridge across the Duwamish Waterway – many of them for decades – arrived on June 30 when it was closed forever to vehicle traffic at the end of the afternoon commute.
And with another $61 million still needed for the project to demolish the 79-year-old draw span and build a new bridge connecting 14th Ave. S. and 16th Ave. S., efforts by King County officials continue to cobble together a funding package totaling $131 million.
King County, which owns the bridge, is expected to apply in August for a federal TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) grant for the rest of the money.
Only a fraction of the funds needed was available until recently. An 11th-hour flurry of pledges from state and local sources generated $70 million in recent weeks for the demolition/construction project.
But even if the county had all the money in the bank right now, it would take about three and a half years before a new drawbridge could be completed and open to traffic.
King County, faced with a multi-million-dollar revenue shortfall, has pledged $30 million for construction of a new South Park Bridge.
The State of Washington, faced with an estimated $3 billion shortfall, has pledged another $20 million.
And the city of Seattle, also facing major budget problems, has pledged $15 million.
The Port of Seattle has pledged an additional $5 million.
Gov. Chris Gregoire, announcing the state’s participation in replacing the bridge, said, “The South Park Bridge is a critical piece of infrastructure for the region’s ability to move freight, but it’s also the primary physical and symbolic connection to one of King County’s most diverse and vibrant neighborhoods.
The South Park Bridge's tender office now sits empty, silent. Photos by Michael Brunk.
“The efforts by the region to find a way to replace this aging bridge is an example of how government and the community can work together to make a difference. I’m proud that the state is going to be a part of this partnership with our $20 million commitment.”
King County Executive Dow Constantine thanked the state along with the city and the port, “for all stepping up and making significant contributions toward the replacement of this transportation lifeline for King County and the broader region.
“This shows that regional cooperation and strong partnerships can create success where the old way of going it alone has failed,” added Constantine, who has been working with governments and businesses to put together a funding package for a new bridge.
District 8 King County Councilwoman Jan Drago, who represents the South Park area as well as Burien, has noted that additional funding partners locally increase the chances of getting federal funding for the project.
The city of Tukwila already has pledged $1.3 toward construction and another $1.7 million for maintenance of a new bridge.
Contributions of land for the right-of-way to build it, which total $5.4 million, have been made by the Puget Sound Regional Council, The Boeing Company, the Port of Seattle, and the King County road fund.
Those most affected by the closure are emergency responders and commuters – including riders on Metro routes 60, 131 and 134 – who travel between Burien or Des Moines and the Boeing facilities in Georgetown or downtown Seattle.
The long-term impact of the closure is not yet clear, but traffic is more crowded on the alternate routes – SR-509 and Highway 99 over the 1st Ave. S. Bridge, and Tukwila International Blvd./E. Marginal Way S. – during morning and afternoon commutes.
South Park Bridge carried 20,000 vehicles across the Duwamish Waterway daily.
Local and state officials have long known that South Park Bridge needed to be replaced due to structural problems that imperiled public safety, and to unreliable mechanical and electrical systems that threatened to interrupt both street and marine traffic.
Built in 1931, the bridge served as a vital link in an important freight corridor for manufacturing and industrial centers in south Seattle, and a regional connector to Sea-Tac International Airport, Boeing Field and the Port of Seattle.
For more information courtesy King County, click here (PDF file).
| Jul |
| 13 |
| 2:00 pm |
The White Center Eagles are asking area residents to step up and “Be A Hero” by taking part in their Pint for Pint Blood Drive on Tuesday, July 13th, where blood donors will receive a coupon good for a pint of beer or a spaghetti dinner.
Here’s what they say:
“Imagine saving a life. Donate with the White Center Eagles on July 13th and you can be a hero. Donate one pint of blood and you can help 3 people. One organ and tissue donor can help over 50 people!
Registered blood donors will receive a coupon good for a pint of beer or a spaghetti dinner from the White Center Eagles*. Sign up to be an organ donor with the Living Legacy Registry, or donate a package of diapers for WestSide Baby, and get a spaghetti dinner too*.”
*Coupons for pints and spaghetti limited to one per person. Other restrictions may apply. ($5.00 per plate without donation)
For details, or to schedule a donation: 206-248-1400.
Here are the details:
WHAT: White Center Eagles “Pint for Pint” Blood Drive
WHEN: Tuesday, July 13th:
- Blood Drive: 2:00pm–7:00pm (closed 3:30pm–4:30pm)
- Spaghetti Dinner 5:00pm–7:00pm
WHERE: White Center Eagles Hall, 10452 15th Ave SW; Call 206-248-1400 to make an appointment.
INFO: Benefits Puget Sound Blood Center, Donate Life Today and WestSide Baby.
More info at www.whitecentereagles.org.
| Jun |
| 26 |
| 11:00 am |
This weekend, local amateur radio operators (“hams”) from the Highline (Burien, Des Moines, Normandy Park, SeaTac, Tukwila, as well as the North Highline unincorporated area) Amateur Radio Club will be participating in ham radio’s annual national emergency exercise called Field Day, to simulate a disaster, and especially the loss of normal communications in a disaster.
Members of the Highline Amateur Radio Club will be setting up a radio communications center at Marvista Park (located at SW 200th and 4th Ave. SW in Normandy Park) to communicate with other hams participating from around the world. Antennas will be set up starting Friday and the exercise begins at 11 a. m. Saturday, June 26, and lasts 24 hours until 11 a. m. Sunday. Club members will be making contacts with the other hams utilizing both voice and Morse Code.
Hams have a long history of providing back-up communications for local governments as well as other non-governmental agencies needing communications in a disaster. Hams provide these services, volunteering their time and, often, using their own personal equipment. As more and more professional emergency management personnel (fire fighters, police, EMTs, emergency managers, etc.) are getting Amateur Radio licenses to be able to use this valuable radio resource, the FCC is contemplating changes to the rules to allow these professionals to work with the volunteers (since, normally, hams are not permitted to have any pecuniary interest in the communications that they make (e. g. wages.).
The Highline Amateur Radio Club extends an invitation to anyone interested in observing the exercise to visit Marvista Park on Saturday afternoon, evening or Sunday morning.
[EDITOR'S NOTE: The silly "Ham Radio" graphic is our creation, and does not reflect the mindset of these radio operators, who probably wouldn't stoop to such a ridiculous logo like that...]
The scheduled June 30 closure of the aging South Park Bridge means big changes are looming for motorists – and Metro bus riders – who regularly cross over it.
Among those most affected will be commuters, including riders on Metro routes 60, 131 and 134, who travel between White Center, Burien or Des Moines and the Boeing facilities in Georgetown or downtown Seattle.
Jack Lattemann, from the Metro Transit Division of the King County Department of Transportation, updated the Burien City Council on May 24 about Metro’s plans for rerouting bus schedules to accommodate traffic disruptions caused by the permanent bridge closure.
Lattemann, a senior transportation planner, said the South Park Bridge is “at the end of its useful life,” and must be closed by King County, which owns and operates the draw span, “to protect public safety.”
The bridge will close to all traffic, including bicycles and pedestrians, on Wednesday, June 30, at 7 p.m.
Traffic will be rerouted on SR-509 and Highway 99 over the 1st Ave. S. Bridge, and on Tukwila International Blvd./E. Marginal Way S.
He said the county transportation department will monitor the impact of additional traffic on SR-509 and the 1st Ave. S. Bridge. The primary concern, however, is not higher traffic volumes but the impact the bridge closure could have on emergency response times.
King County lacks funding at this time to pay for an estimated $130 million replacement for the bridge, including demolition of the current structure, which carries about 20,000 vehicles a day on 14th Ave. S./16th Ave. S. across the Duwamish Waterway.
Even if the money were available now, Lattemann said building a new span would take about three and a half years. A study determined it is impractical to build a temporary bridge until funding becomes available.
Built in 1931, the South Park Bridge is an important freight corridor for manufacturing and industrial centers in Seattle, and a regional connector to Sea-Tac International Airport, Boeing Field and the Port of Seattle.
It also provides a convenient commuter route for many residents of Burien, Des Moines, Boulevard Park and White Center.
Compounding structural problems, which imperil public safety, are unreliable mechanical and electrical systems that open and close the bridge, Lattemann told the council.
The faulty systems frequently cause delays in draw span operations, resulting in delays for both vehicles on the street and marine traffic – and should be bridge not be able to operate south of the bridge.
A current update by county transportation department notes that concrete in the bridge support structure, which has withstood three major earthquakes, “is undergoing a self-destructive process that cannot be reversed or repaired. The heavily cracked piers are not stable and shift on their foundations.”
Lattemann said in selecting alternative routes for the affected bus service, Metro Transit considered maintaining neighborhood coverage, minimizing travel time for riders, and minimizing increases in operating costs.
Here are some route info maps as created by King County’s DOT – click on images to view larger versions:
For more information, click here to download a summary doc (as a PDF file), which includes maps and other details.
| May |
| 25 |
| 6:00 pm |
While not quite a memorial, there will be an Open House public meeting about the closure of the South Park Bridge and its impact on the local community on Tuesday, May 25th from 6pm – 8pn at the Machinists Hall at 9125 15th Place South in Seattle.
The meeting will also include a formal presentation and Q&A session starting at 6:30pm.
During the open house and presentation, the King County DOT, representatives from the city of Seattle and other service providers will provide an overview of key actions that will be taken in response to input from residents and businesses in the area. With the June 30 closure of the bridge just weeks away, several actions have been identified to help keep traffic moving while supporting local business needs. Those steps include:
- Adding a signal at the southbound onramp to SR-509 at South Cloverdale Street and 1st Ave. South to relieve traffic congestion;
- The installation of signage to help channel motorists through the area and around the bridge after it closes;
- Working with the South Park community to develop ongoing strategies to support neighborhood business and commerce; and
- Making channelization improvements to key arterials such as 14th/16th Ave. South and East Marginal Way.
Impacts to King County Metro Transit service have also been a major concern for bus riders in South Park and Georgetown. In response to comments from the public, Metro will present revised options for continued service once the bridge is closed. Based on extensive research and input from riders and coordination with the city of Seattle, the reroutes represent the best short-term option for continued service to the South Park and Georgetown neighborhoods.
Meanwhile, King County Executive Dow Constantine continues to lead a broad-based coalition of public and private stakeholders to secure critical funding for eventual construction of a new bridge. Recently, the executive traveled to Washington D.C. to seek support for federal funding to help pay for construction of a new South Park Bridge.
The South Park Bridge suffers from widespread steel corrosion, crumbling concrete piers and an outdated electrical control system. The main drawbridge piers are also unstable. The condition of the bridge is so poor it now has an engineering sufficiency rating of 4 out of a possible 100, making it the worst heavily traveled bridge in the state of Washington.
And a recently released independent engineering report has additionally confirmed that the bridge must be closed on June 30.
“While closure of the South Park Bridge is necessary, we all recognize the difficult challenges and adjustments that lie ahead,” King County Road Services Division Director Linda Dougherty said. “But thanks to the many constructive and thoughtful comments we have received from citizens and the dedicated involvement of community leaders, we have identified several actions we hope will ease the burden on this vibrant community.”
For more information about the meeting, call the South Park Bridge Closure Line at (206) 263-9979. You can also learn more about the meeting and planning for the upcoming closure of the South Park Bridge by visiting www.kingcounty.gov/southparkbridge.
| Jun |
| 12 |
| 10:00 am |
The Highline Historical Society’s annual Highline Garden Tour fundraiser has been expanded to include five private gardens as well as the Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden, and will be held on Saturday, June 12th.
Garden Tour participants will enjoy outstanding gardens, artist displays, musical performances, two separate plant sales, Master Gardener advice and coupon specials throughout the day.
There also will be a screening of the Ken Slusher documentary about the piece-by-piece transfer of the lovely Seike Garden out of the path of SeaTac Airport expansion to its new home at the Botanical Gardens.
Here are the details:
WHAT: Highline Historical Society’s fundraising Highline Garden Tour.
WHEN: Saturday, June 12th, from 10am – 5pm.
TICKETS: Advance tickets are $12.00 for parties of 4 or more, and $15.00 for individual tickets.
Day of sale tickets will be $18.00.
Tickets may be purchased at Burien Bark and Herr Backyard Garden Center in Burien, or from the Society by telephone at 206-241-5786.
INFO: To join the Highline Historical Society (we’re members), click here.
The Society thanks business sponsors John L. Scott Real Estate agent Susan Plecko, Burien Bark, Herr Backyard Garden Center, The Bean, and Sal’s Deli for their generous support of the Garden Tour.
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