(View from Alki this morning, photographed by David Hutchinson)

Today’s themes – schools and history. Here are the highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

LAPS WITH LOU: As previewed here last week, retired Pathfinder K-8 PE teacher Lou Cutler is returning to the school on Pigeon Point for his annual Make-A-Wish-benefiting run/walk around the field, a birthday celebration with one lap for every year – 65 this time! 8:45 am was the scheduled start time, so he should be on the field now – as we publish this, we’re headed for the school to check in. All welcome to come share a lap or two or more, and/or to donate here. (1901 SW Genesee)

GROUP HUG FOR THE ADMIRAL: The Southwest Seattle Historical Society is gathering students from three local elementaries, plus two former mayors, for a “group hug” photo op to celebrate its soon-to-start renovation, almost a quarter-century after local residents rallied to save the landmark movie theater. It’ll be unfolding between 9:30 and 10:30 am. (2343 California SW)

WSHS CLASS OF ’56: 60th reunion today, 11 am, Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor)! (1936 Harbor SW)

WORDS, WRITERS, WEST SEATTLE: 5-7 pm at Barnes & Noble/Westwood Village, Lisa Richesson talks about her book, “White Lady, Black Sons.” Here’s her video invitation:

This ongoing series is presented by the SW Seattle Historical Society. (2800 SW Barton)

CORNER BAR: Tonight’s the monthly pop-up bar, with tunes, at Highland Park Improvement Club, starting at 6 pm – full details here. (12th/Holden)

SCHMITZ PARK ELEMENTARY CELEBRATION: Before the school community at Schmitz Park Elementary concludes its final year before moving to the new Genesee Hill Elementary in the fall, its history and legacy will be celebrated tonight, 6:30 pm – details in our calendar listing. (5000 SW Spokane)

WSMA AT C & P: Performers/composers from West Side Music Academy perform tonight at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7 pm. (5612 California SW)

THE SKYLARK TURNS TEN: 9 pm anniversary show – details in our listing. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

MORE … on our complete calendar!

(Anna’s Hummingbird, photographed by Trileigh Tucker)

What’s happening today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and inbox:

SOUND TRANSIT 3: The Sound Transit board follows up last week’s announcement of revisions to its light-rail-expansion plan (including moving up West Seattle light rail to 2030) with a special meeting this morning, under way now until noon at the ST board room downtown. Here’s the agenda. You can watch live here. (401 S. Jackson)

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: 10:30 am-11 am at Southwest Library, for ages 3-5. (35th SW/SW Henderson)

DELRIDGE GROCERY FARMSTAND: Starting today and every Thursday all summer long, 4-7 pm, the Delridge Grocery Farmstand is back at the Delridge P-Patch with fresh produce for sale. (Delridge Way and Puget Boulevard)

WEST SEATTLE YMCA EXPANSION GROUNDBREAKING: 4:30-6 pm, you are invited to the West Seattle YMCA (WSB sponsor) for a groundbreaking celebration as its expansion revs up. Bounce house, face-painting, games, photo booth, more, free for all! Brief program at 5 pm. (4515 36th SW)

SPIRITS FOR SPORTS: Join the West Seattle Booster Club in raising money at tonight’s “pub stroll” fundraiser, 6-9 pm in The Junction, various locations – details here.

LANDFILL HARMONIC ORCHESTRA: Free concert at 7 pm at Providence Mount St. Vincent. The Landfill Harmonic Orchestra from Paraguay includes musicians who live next to a giant landfill; their instruments “are made entirely out of garbage.” (4831 35th SW)

NORTH HIGHLINE UNINCORPORATED AREA COUNCIL: Live/work in White Center, Top Hat, Boulevard Park, or somewhere else in unincorporated North Highline? 7 pm at the NH Fire Station, your community council meets tonight. The agenda is previewed on our partner site White Center Now. (1243 SW 112th)

(American Goldfinch – the state bird of Washington! – photographed by Mark Wangerin)

Brand-new month, and here’s how it starts – with highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICTS VS. COUNCIL DISTRICTS: A City Council committee talks this morning about the draft report resulting from last year’s council request that the Department of Neighborhoods look at realigning the city’s 13 “districts” with the 7 new council districts. 9:30 am, live on Seattle Channel if you won’t be at City Hall.

TODDLER STORY TIME: For ages 1-3, 10:30-11 am at Southwest Library. (35th SW/SW Henderson)

HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK: Another warm, sunny day, so we’re reminding you that HP Spraypark – the only spraypark in West Seattle – is open 11 am-8 pm daily through Labor Day. (1100 SW Cloverdale)

NETWORKING MEETUP: Noon-1:15 pm, you’re invited to visit our area’s only coworking center, West Seattle Office Junction (WSB sponsor), and meet your fellow nontraditional workers/entrepreneurs/etc. at this week’s networking meetup. (6040 California SW)

THE GREATEST MOVIES YOU’VE NEVER HEARD OF: Wednesday-afternoon series continues at Senior Center of West Seattle, 1 pm, with Paul Newman and Patricia Neal in “Hud.” $1 members/$2 nonmembers. (California SW/SW Oregon)

ULTIMATE FRISBEE: 6 pm Wednesday is “coed,” at Fairmount Playfield – more info here. (5400 Fauntleroy Way SW)

SOUTHWEST DISTRICT COUNCIL: 6:30 pm at the Sisson Building/Senior Center, the Southwest District Council’s agenda this month includes an update on the Alki “car-free” event planned September 25th for Seattle Summer Parkways and a discussion of the future of neighborhood districts vs. council districts – same item a City Council committee is discussing this morning. (California SW/SW Oregon)

JIM PAGE, LIVE: Singer-songwriter at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

TRIVIA AT TALARICO’S: Never been to popular Wednesday night trivia at Talarico’s Pizzeria? Maybe tonight’s your night. 8:30 pm. (4718 California SW)

WONDERING WHAT ELSE IS UP? Just browse our complete calendar.

(Recent view of West Seattle and beyond by Long Bach Nguyen)

Quick look at what’s on the calendar for today/tonight:

FREE LEGAL HELP: Two sessions at the Senior Center of West Seattle – 2-4 pm (info here) and 7-9 pm (info here) – both require appointments and each has a different number to call, so follow the respective links to get it. (California SW & SW Oregon)

JUSTIN KAUSAL-HAYES: Live music at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor), “acoustic hits of the last 4 decades.” 5-8 pm, no cover. (1936 Harbor SW)

BILLY JOE & THE RC’S: Live at Parliament Tavern every Tuesday, 8 pm, featuring Billy Joe Huels and Robin Cady of The Dusty 45s, along with Rod Cook. No cover. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

SINGER-SONGWRITER SHOWCASE: 9 pm every Tuesday at Shadowland. (California SW/SW Oregon)

THERE’S MORE … on our complete calendar.

Good morning! From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and inbox, here’s what you need to know:

REMINDER – NO BRIDGE CLOSURE TONIGHT: Because of the holiday, the next closure of the west end of the West Seattle Bridge for the Fauntleroy Expressway seismic-cushion-re-replacement project is not scheduled until Tuesday night.

LAST DAY TO VOTE ON SPENDING $700,000 … Between 11 and 25? Know someone who is? This is the voting deadline in the city’s Participatory Budgeting experiment. Vote online here.

POPPIES TO HELP VETERANS: 8 am-4 pm, American Legion Post 160 will be at West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor) again today, offering poppies both to benefit veterans and to remind people what the holiday is about.

In our photo from Saturday are Post 160’s Commander Keith Hughes and Ron Wright. (California/Fauntleroy/Morgan)

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: Strawberries and asparagus are abundant this time of year, and WSFM promises cherries this week too. 10 am-2 pm in The Junction. (California SW between SW Oregon and SW Alaska)

HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK, DAY 2: Will today be any warmer? 11 am-8 pm, the spraypark is ready to go, rain or shine. (1100 SW Cloverdale)

COLMAN POOL, DAY 2: The water’s warm, so the air doesn’t have to be. Noon-7 pm, three swim sessons, as listed on the schedule for the outdoor pool in Lincoln Park. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

ALKI POINT LIGHTHOUSE TOURS, DAY 2: 1 pm-4 pm, with the last group allowed onto the grounds at 3:40 pm. Go see the historic lighthouse and an awesome view, free! (Alki SW/Beach Drive SW)

AT C & P THIS AFTERNOON: Jazz, blues, and bossa nova blended by Mezze, at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 3-5 pm. (5612 California SW)

AT KENYON HALL TONIGHT: The Girsky Quartet performs music by Beethoven and Shostakovich. 7:30 pm. (7904 35th SW)

WHAT ELSE IS UP? Check our complete calendar.

(Northern Flicker, photographed by Mark Wangerin)

Welcome to Memorial Day weekend! Highlights for today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and inbox:

TRAFFIC NOTE: No overnight bridge closure tonight; the next scheduled closure isn’t until Tuesday night, because of the holiday.

Now, what IS happening:

POST 160 POPPIES: 8 am-4 pm, American Legion Post 160 will be at West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor) offering the handmade poppies that are reminders of what Memorial Day is about. (California/Fauntleroy/Morgan)

MOBILE BLOOD DRIVE: Give a life-saving gift in The Junction today, with a mobile blood drive 9 am-3 pm (closed 11 am-noon); details in our listing. (42nd SW/SW Alaska)

ANCIENT LOCAL PLANT AND ANIMAL COMMUNITY RECOVERY TOUR: 10 am at Orchard Street Ravine in Gatewood, with naturalist Stewart Wechsler – info on his website. (3800 SW Orchard)

OPENING DAY FOR HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK: 11 am-8 pm, it’s the first day of the season – which runs 7 days a week through Labor Day – at Highland Park Spraypark, the only spraypark in West Seattle. (1100 SW Cloverdale)

PLANT SALE AT SSC: The Landscape Horticulture program at South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) is selling plants again today at the Garden Center on the north end of campus, 11 am-3 pm. (6000 16th SW)

FAMILY GAME DAY AT MEEPLES: Not warm enough for your favorite outdoor fun? Play indoors at Meeples Games (WSB sponsor), on Family Game Day! 11:30 am-3 pm. (3727 California SW)

COLMAN POOL’S OPENING DAY: This year, the historic pool in Lincoln Park celebrates its 75th anniversary. Be part of it starting today, as the first pre-season weekend begins. Three swim sessions noon-7 pm – check the brochure for full details. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

ALKI LIGHTHOUSE TOURS BEGIN: As previewed here earlier this week, it’s the first day of the season for free tours of historic Alki Point Lighthouse, thanks to the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. 1 pm-4 pm, last group allowed in at 3:40. (Alki SW/Beach Drive SW)

LIVE HIP-HOP: 5 pm at The Skylark – details in our listing. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

DAMON BUXTON: Guitarist/composer, live at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

(Pigeon Guillemot, photographed at the Fauntleroy ferry dock by Mark Wangerin)

The calendar quiets as holidays approach, so the preview list for today/tonight is relatively short. Have fun, whatever your plans!

SOFTBALL PLAYOFFS: West Seattle High School‘s first game at the state tournament in Lacey is at noon today vs. Enumclaw.

THE GREATEST MOVIES YOU’VE NEVER HEARD OF: 1 pm screening at the Senior Center of West Seattle – Humphrey Bogart in “Passage to Marseille.” $1 members, $2 non-members. (California SW/SW Oregon)

JIM NASON: The singer-songwriter performs at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

‘DEATH OF A SALESMAN’: Your third-to-last chance to see ArtsWest Playhouse‘s current production, 7:30 pm curtain tonight. (4711 California SW)

THE PAGAN SOUTH & THIEVES OF EDEN: Live at The Skylark, 9 pm, 21+, $7 cover. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

PREVIEW THE HOLIDAY WEEKEND … by checking out our complete calendar!

Look closely at Don Brubeck‘s photo and you’ll see seven Great Blue Herons fishing on the Duwamish River. Getting ready for some fishing yourself? Or other holiday activities? Before we get to the Memorial Day weekend, here are highlights from the calendar for today/tonight:

FREE KINDERMUSIK: 1 pm at My Three Little Birds (WSB sponsor) in south Morgan Junction, bring the little one(s) for free Kindermusik today! (6959 California SW)

SOUND TRANSIT 3: 1:30 pm at the Sound Transit board room downtown, the ST board will talk about possible changes to the draft ST3 plan, which currently calls for light rail to West Seattle in 2033, before voting on the final ballot measure next week. Here’s the agenda; we plan to be there and will bring you as-it-happens updates on whether any changes are proposed for the West Seattle part of the 25-year plan. (401 S. Jackson)

COMMUNITY CANNABIS CONVERSATION: 2-4 pm, a chat about cannabis, geared toward seniors with questions, as explained in our calendar listing, at the Senior Center of West Seattle. (SW Oregon/California SW)

BETWEEN 11 AND 25? Vote ASAP in the Youth Voice, Youth Choice “participatory budgeting” that the city’s trying out this year! One easy way to do it – go see volunteer Nancy Folsom at Delridge Skatepark, 3:30 pm-5 pm. Details in our report from earlier this week, which has the online-voting link too. (Delridge Way SW/SW Genesee)

TASTE OF WEST SEATTLE: The 11th annual eat-and-drink benefit for West Seattle Helpline tonight is sold out – so this is just a reminder, if you’re among the ticketholders, or if you pass by The Hall at Fauntleroy and wonder what the big crowd is about. It starts with VIP admission at 6 pm, general admission at 6:30 pm. (9131 California SW)

T-5 DRAFT EIS @ TRANSPORTATION COALITION: 6:30 pm, the West Seattle Transportation Coalition meets at Neighborhood House’s High Point Center, with two major agenda items: NW Seaport Alliance deputy CEO Kurt Beckett talks about the Terminal 5 Draft Environmental Impact Statement that’s now awaiting your comments, plus, WSTC board elections – four spots with one candidate each, two spots with no candidates, so they’re looking for people to serve. (6400 Sylvan Way SW)

THAT’S JUST THE START … find many more listings for today, tonight, and beyond, on our complete calendar.

Today’s spotlight photo is courtesy of Don Brubeck, who explains, “Bike riders were detouring around some heavy traffic at Terminal 18 (Tuesday) afternoon. Did not hear any honking.” Whether you’re going by bike, bus, car, feet … or wings! … here are half a dozen highlights for the rest of today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

ENTREPRENEUR MEETUP: Got your own business, or working on an idea for one? Join today’s Entrepreneur Meetup, noon-1:15 pm, at West Seattle Office Junction (WSB sponsor). Just drop in, and bring your lunch if you want to. (6040 California SW)

VIETNAMESE COMMUNITY TEA TIME: 1-3 pm at Greenbridge Community Center. Host Tram Chung says, “Please come to meet with friends, exchange information, storytelling, entertainment, singing, and planning for the future meetings. We can help with language support (translation/interpreter) or settle the bills such as electricity, water, cable TV, internet.” (9800 8th SW)

IRISH SET DANCING: 6:30 pm instruction, 7 pm dancing, no partner necessary, all explained here! Happening at Kenyon Hall. (7904 35th SW)

COMMUNITY WELLNESS AND PREVENTION INITIATIVE COALITION: 7 pm at Neighborhood House’s High Point Center, be part of the first meeting of this new coalition meant to help prevent youth substance abuse, as explained in our calendar listing. (6400 Sylvan Way SW)

HIGHLAND PARK ACTION COMMITTEE: 7 pm at Highland Park Improvement Club, with the agenda including a discussion of what’s next in the process of determining the Myers Way Parcels’ future (recent WSB coverage here and here), and info on what the Department of Neighborhoods is all about. (12th SW/SW Holden)

POEMS AND STORIES: 7 pm at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), the monthly Poetrybridge event features readings by Georgie Bright Kunkel and Cheryl Latif, as well as a community microphone. (5612 California SW)

Today’s photo is from Trileigh Tucker, who notes, “The Anna’s Hummingbird (top) is a year-around denizen of Seattle, so when the Rufous Hummingbird (bottom) shows up for summer residency, there’s much debate around territory!” As for what’s going on in your territory around the peninsula today/tonight – from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and inbox:

LOW TIDE, WITH BEACH NATURALISTS: Today’s low tide – -1.5 feet at 1:15 pm – is a little lower than Monday, and Seattle Aquarium volunteer beach naturalists will again be out at Constellation Park and Lincoln Park, 10:30 am-1:30 pm.

BALLOT DROPOFF VANS: As reported here last night, tonight is the deadline to get your ballot in for the state’s presidential primary, and you can do that without a stamp by using a King County Elections dropoff van, 10 am-8 pm, West Seattle Stadium (4432 35th SW) or Greenbridge (9720 8th SW).

YOUTH VOICE, YOUTH CHOICE: As reported here on Monday, the city’s “participatory budgeting” experiment offers 11- to 25-year-olds the chance this week to vote on which projects they think should get a share of $700,000 in the next city budget. Today’s voting locations include Delridge Skatepark, where you’ll find community volunteer Nancy Folsom with ballots from about 3:30-5 pm. (Delridge/Genesee)

8923 FAUNTLEROY WAY’S FUTURE: 6:30 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy, come hear about, and comment on, the proposal for a sort of swap involving a house and 35 feet of beachfront property north of Cove Park by the Fauntleroy Ferry Terminal. Neighbors say they’ve been told the proposal has changed regarding which city department might own it if the “swap” is made. Our previous reports are here, here, here, and here. (9131 California SW)

WEST SEATTLE BLOCK WATCH CAPTAINS NETWORK: WSBWCN meets at 6:30 pm at the Southwest Precinct:

What are your top-of-mind, Block Watch-related issues? Bring them to our meeting! It’s been a while since we’ve had open discussion as opposed to a full agenda at our monthly meeting. So this is your chance to discuss what happening in your neighborhood, ask for advice, share your advice, and get to know your fellow BW captains. Let’s take advantage of this! Two topics that have been raised so far both involve youth: One is how to engage youth to be involved in your Block Watch? And two, how to build awareness of summer safety issues without alarming them?

(2300 SW Webster)

FAMILY STORY TIME: 7 pm at Delridge Library. (5423 Delridge Way SW)

UNINCORPORATED AREA OPEN HOUSE: If you live in White Center or elsewhere in unincorporated North Highline, you’re invited to King County’s annual open house, 7-9 pm at Seola Gardens’ Providence Building – here’s the flyer. (11215 5th SW)

NIGHTLIFE! Music and karaoke are some of what you’ll find in these listings, on our complete calendar.

Our featured photo today is a Spotted Sandpiper, yet another beautiful bird photographed by Mark Wangerin, who explained: “Yesterday morning I went in search of a Kingfisher burrow along the banks of the Duwamish. After a while a pair of Spotted Sandpipers flew by. I made a ‘nest’ for myself in the bushes and waited, all told, for about 2 hours. Pairs came in “waves,” and freely fed right in front of me. What fun!” Speaking of fun, here’s YOUR chance to get out on the shore, first of our three highlighted calendar listings for today/tonight:

LOW TIDE, WITH BEACH NATURALISTS: Right now, it’s the first day of the year that Seattle Aquarium volunteer beach naturalists are out to help you learn about our shores during low tides. Today it’s out to -1.4 feet at 12:38 pm, so you’ll find the naturalists at Constellation Park (south of Alki Point) and Lincoln Park (near Colman Pool) from now until 1:30 pm – details in our calendar listing.

TINKERLAB COMMONS 6-7:30 pm at Delridge Library, drop in to check out “a weekly all-ages program that introduces science, technology, engineering and math concepts through play, experimentation, and discovery.” Tonight, stop-motion animation is the focus. Free, of course. (5423 Delridge Way SW)

TWILIGHT ZONE-A-THON: “Movie Monday” at Parliament Tavern in The Admiral District tonight features episodes of “The Twilight Zone” plus the movie. No cover. 7-11 pm. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

MUCH MORE … for today/tonight/beyond, on our complete calendar.

Good morning! What you need to know for your West Seattle Sunday:

TRAFFIC ALERTS: We have two today:

(WSB photo, added 8:50 am)

—West Seattle 5K (more on the run/walk below) closes Alki Avenue SW to motor-vehicle traffic for about three hours, approximately 8 am-11 am. Parking restrictions, too.

—Fauntleroy Expressway project resumes tonight, with another 9 pm-5 am closure of the west end of the West Seattle Bridge. We asked SDOT at the end of the week about a change in the announced detour pattern last week, and they confirm it will continue tonight: They are also re-replacing the seismic-cushion pads on an onramp, so the Avalon onramp to the eastbound bridge will be closed and they’ll be detouring traffic under the bridge to the onramp by Fire Station 36. Westbound, you’ll still have to exit by Delridge.

Now, on to what’s happening, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

WEST SEATTLE 5K: Not registered? It’s not too late! Last-minute signups for this run/walk benefiting West Seattle High School, with co-sponsors including WSB, start at 8 am near the start/finish line at 61st SW/Alki SW. Course goes to Anchor/Luna Park and back, in the street, which as mentioned above is closed for the occasion but will reopen once the course is cleared.

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm in The Junction. Last week, we noticed strawberries and lettuce had arrived. (California SW between Oregon and Alaska)

MEET ‘SEATTLE READS’ AUTHOR: Noon-1:30 pm at West Seattle (Admiral) Library, “come meet Karen Joy Fowler and join in a discussion with the writer and other readers about Fowler’s novel, ‘We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves’.” Free, but come early to get a space; meeting room will open at 11:30 am. (2306 42nd SW)

MOTHER/DAUGHTER TEA: 1-3 pm at Fauntleroy YMCA. (9140 California SW)

‘ALKI DAZE’ COSTUMED BIKE PARADE: Meet at 1:30 at 63rd/Alki, ride at 2, all welcome. Live music and bicycle parking in the 2600 block of Alki SW after the parade.

ELITE BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU ‘GRAND (RE)OPENING’: 1-4 pm at what’s now Elite Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (WSB sponsor), celebrate its grand reopening with free clinics, eats, specials, and more, as previewed here. (5050 Delridge Way SW)

’42’ SCREENING: 2 pm at High Point Library, come see “42” as “part of the Library’s African American Film Series celebrating black actors, directors and films depicting the African American experience.” Free. (35th SW/SW Raymond)

WEST SEATTLE HI-YU TEA: 2-4:30 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy, join Hi-Yu royalty for an afternoon tea that “features sweet and savory treats, a silent auction, and, of course, tea.” It’s a major fundraiser for Hi-Yu, raising money for scholarships and for the city’s last neighborhood-powered traveling parade float. $25/person. (9131 California SW)

FOLKSY-BLUESY MUSIC: 3-5 pm at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), Lauren Crosby performs. (5612 California SW)

INDIE/FOLK MUSIC: 6-9 pm, all-ages show at The Skylark – details here. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

WHAT ELSE IS UP? You’ll find even more listings on our complete calendar.

(WSB photo: If you go to The Junction this weekend, you’ll see the hanging flower baskets, which arrived Friday)

Rain or shine, here are the highlights of our West Seattle weekend, day 1. First, a few notes:

TRAFFIC ALERTS: **No** bridge closure tonight – next one is Sunday night. If you’re going to/through SODO, note that Sounders FC hosts Colorado tonight at CenturyLink Field, 7 pm. And if you’ll be on Alki late tonight, remember the Sunday morning parking restrictions/road closures for the West Seattle 5K.

HELICOPTERS: Might be some unusual sightings today because of the American Heroes Airshow at the nearby Museum of Flight – it’s on our calendar because aviation draws so much interest here!

Now, as for what’s happening in West Seattle and vicinity …

TAI CHI AT THE BEACH: 9 am-10 am by Alki Bathhouse, with Lao-Shi Caylen Storm. (61st SW/Alki SW)

WHITE CENTER LIBRARY DEDICATION: White Center’s brand-new King County Library System branch is finished and ready to open. Party starts at 9:30 am today. When you visit, look for WSB contributing photojournalist Christopher Boffoli’s image “Octopus Survey” in a conference room – it was still wrapped up and awaiting installation when he photographed it on Friday:

(1409 SW 107th)

WEST SEATTLE BEE FESTIVAL: 10 am festival, 11 am parade, and much more! See our Friday night preview. Come visit us at the Vendor/Info Fair! High Point Commons Park (including the West Seattle Bee Garden) and Neighborhood House’s High Point Center. (6400 Sylvan Way SW)

LEARN TO PAINT MINIATURES: 11 am at Meeples Games (WSB sponsor) – as explained on the Meeples website – all ages but a parent must accompany anyone under 12. (3727 California SW)

(update – rained out) BARBECUE BENEFIT: Another benefit barbecue lunch at West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor), 11 am-4 pm. Today, it’s burgers and hot dogs, benefiting Northwest Harvest. (California/Fauntleroy/Morgan)

FRIENDSHOP POP-UP: Friends of the Seattle Public Library will have a pop-up shop on the front steps of the West Seattle (Admiral) Library today, 11:30 am-3:30 pm – here’s what it’s all about. (2306 42nd SW)

PACKET PICKUP AND REGISTRATION FOR WEST SEATTLE 5K: Noon-6 pm at West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor), you can pick up your packet for Sunday morning’s West Seattle 5K if you’re already registered, or register if you’re not! (2743 California SW)

CATIO TOUR: Two West Seattle “catios” are on the map for today’s noon-4 pm self-guided tour – details in our calendar listing.

BIRDS OF THE DUWAMISH VALLEY: 1-3 pm at the Duwamish Tribe Longhouse, presentation and walk – details in our calendar listing. (4205 W. Marginal Way SW)

WRITE YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD! With Seattle’s Civic Poet (and West Seattle resident) Claudia Castro Luna, 1-3 pm at High Point Library, a “fun and interactive afternoon reading and writing poetry.” Free but first-come, first-served. (35th SW/SW Raymond)

HIGHLAND PARK UNCORKED: Sold out, so this is just a reminder if you’ve signed up – the Highland Park Improvement Club‘s annual wine-tasting benefit is tonight, 5:30 pm doors open, 7 pm tasting begins! Co-sponsors include WSB. (12th SW/SW Holden)

LAFAYETTE’S ‘THE LION KING’: All are welcome to enjoy Lafayette Elementary‘s “The Lion King” tonight, 7 pm, at West Seattle High School. Performances are by kids in grades 3rd through 5th who attend Lafayette. Free admission; concessions on sale. (3000 California SW)

ROO FORREST AND FRIENDS: Originals and covers at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

MADELINE BERSAMINA & FRIENDS: 7:30 pm at Kenyon Hall, “soprano Madeline Bersamina (has) put together a program of American and British songs with mezzo soprano Erin Calata, flutist Brian Fairbanks, and pianist John Stuntebeck.” Ticket info and other details in our calendar listing. (7904 35th SW)

SEE THE CALENDAR … for even more.

(Female Purple Martin, photographed along the Duwamish River by Mark Wangerin)

The weekend is within view! Today/tonight highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

COUNCILMEMBER’S DISTRICT OFFICE HOURS: Noon-7 pm, it’s your next chance to talk “in the district” with your City Councilmember, Lisa Herbold. She’ll be at the Southwest Neighborhood Service Center, same building as SW Pool and SW Teen Life Center. (2801 SW Thistle)

TRACK: As previewed here this morning, the Sea-King District track meet continues at 4 pm at Southwest Athletic Complex – full schedule here. (2801 SW Thistle)

SOFTBALL: West Seattle High School plays for third place in the Sea-King District vs. Eastside Catholic at 5 pm, SW Athletic Complex. (2801 SW Thistle)

DAVE HOLO TRIO: Live New Orleans jazz at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor), 5-8 pm, no cover. (1936 Harbor SW)

BOWL FOR GIRLS ON THE RUN: Bowling fundraiser tonight at West Seattle Bowl, two sessions, first one at 5:30 pm – more info in our calendar listing. (39th SW/SW Oregon)

ART SHOW AT NEPENTHE: 6-9 pm, Haley Hills‘ art show and more at Nepenthe Massage and Boutique – details in our calendar listing. (9447 35th SW)

ALKI DAZE, NIGHT 1: Informal community-organized weekend celebration – bicycle riders, meet and greet 6-8 pm at Alki Bike and Board, then ride to Alki for a bonfire at 8 pm. (

‘THE LION KING’: All are welcome to come applaud the 3rd-through-5th-grade performers of Lafayette Elementary in “The Lion King,” 7 pm, second of three performances in the West Seattle High School Theater, directed by Lafayette parent Joel Oltyan. Free but bring $ for fundraising concessions! (3000 California SW)

YVONNE AND LYLE: Americana and alt-country at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRAS, PLUS SINGERS! 7:30 pm at Chief Sealth International High School, the West Seattle Community Orchestras‘ Symphony Orchestra is joined by Wellspring Ensemble for a “family-friendly evening of soulful and exciting orchestral and vocal music.” Admission free, donations appreciated. (2600 SW Thistle)

OLD JAZZ FROM NEW HAWAII: 7:30 pm at Kenyon Hall, this concert benefits Westside School (WSB sponsor) – details in our calendar listing, including ticket info. (7904 35th SW)

MORE FOR TODAY, TONIGHT, THE WEEKEND, BEYOND … on our complete calendar!

Today’s bird photo is courtesy of “SeamusSays,” who writes, “We are so fortunate to live in an area that supports such diverse wildlife – coyotes and all. Heard the enchanting calls of this guy/gal … and was happy to find her perched at the bottom of our backyard in a group of decaying Alder on Genesee Hill. Despite a constant protest from a group of the Steller’s Jays and crows, she managed a restful 10+ hours. Hope to see her again and just wanted to share.” Thanks to everyone who shares what they see … birds, breaking news, or … editor@westseattleblog.com or text to 206-293-6302. Now, on to today’s calendar highlights:

FREE KINDERMUSIK CLASS: 1 pm at My Three Little Birds (WSB sponsor) in south Morgan Junction. (6959 California SW)

SOFTBALL: West Seattle High School‘s next game in the district tournament is at 6 pm at Southwest Athletic Complex, vs. Lake Washington. (2801 SW Thistle, but the fields are on the SW Trenton side of SWAC)

SUMMER PARKWAYS EVENT PLANNING MEETING: 6-6:45 pm at Alki UCC, all are welcome to join the next planning meeting for the September 25th “Summer Parkways” car-free-day event. Here’s the event flyer. (6115 SW Hinds)

The topic carries on into this next meeting …

ALKI COMMUNITY COUNCIL: 7 pm at Alki UCC, with agenda also including Seattle Police (updates plus the micro-community policing plan) and speed limits. (6115 SW Hinds)

‘THE LION KING’: Parent volunteer Emily sent the invitation and photo:

All are welcome to come and see Lafayette Elementary‘s ‘The Lion King’ being performed tonight, 5/19 (6 pm), tomorrow, 5/20 (7 pm), and Saturday, 5/21 (7 pm), at West Seattle High School. Performances are by kids in grades 3rd through 5th who attend Lafayette. Costumes are amazing! It’s our once-a-year production, directed by Lafayette parent Joel Oltyan. Free admission but we are selling concessions so please come support Lafayette!

(3000 California SW)

BELLY DANCING: Monthly free Alauda showcase at The Skylark, 7:30 pm, all ages. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

Plus:

SUMMER SWIM LESSON REGISTRATION: It’s now open at the West Seattle YMCA (WSB sponsor):

Jump in this summer! Y swim instructors emphasize personal safety, swimming skills, endurance and social skills while guiding students with praise and encouragement. A variety of sessions are offered throughout summer. Register online here or in person at either branch. Parent Child swim lessons for ages 6 to 35 months are FREE with family memberships at the West Seattle & Fauntleroy YMCA.

(4515 36th SW)

WHAT ELSE IS UP TODAY/TONIGHT? See our complete calendar, here.

(Photo by Laura Goodrich, from the WSB Flickr group)

Six of the many options for the rest of your West Seattle Wednesday, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

FIGHTING STRESS: Free workshop at noon at West Seattle YMCA (WSB sponsor) – details in our calendar listing.

NETWORKING MEETUP: Noon-1:15 pm at West Seattle Office Junction (WSB sponsor), network with local entrepreneurs, coworkers, freelancers, whoever shows up! Bring your lunch and spend some time networking. (6040 California SW)

KIDS’ NIGHT AT WORDSWEST: As previewed here last weekend, there’s a special 6 pm start time for this month’s WordsWest Literary Series presentation, which is geared for young readers as summer-reading season approaches – bring the family to C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor) and enjoy the free event! (5612 California SW)

MADISON PTSA + ‘SCREENAGERS’: The final Madison Middle School PTSA meeting of the year at 6:30 pm precedes a screening of “Screenagers,” the documentary about today’s youth and their lives online, at 7 pm. All welcome for both, in the Madison Commons – it’s a dessert potluck, too! (45th SW/SW Spokane)

34th DISTRICT REPUBLICANS: 7 pm at American Legion Post 160, it’s this month’s meeting of the 34th District Republicans, with an agenda featuring Lieutenant Governor candidate Marty McClendon and an update on Bill Bryant‘s campaign for governor. (3618 SW Alaska)

DELRIDGE NEIGHBORHOODS DISTRICT COUNCIL: 7 pm at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. This month’s meeting features community members’ presentations for proposed Neighborhood Street Fund projects. The proposals’ titles:

*Highland Park Way SW Access from Dumar Way SW
*New Sidewalks on 17th Avenue SW
*Operation Sidewalk 18th Avenue SW
*Project Fix Delridge Way SW
*Complete SW Barton Street
*Roundabout for Highland Park Way/SW Holden St
*14th Avenue SW Sidewalk Completion (Phase 1 – North of Trenton)
*Safety Improvements to 26th Ave SW and/or 25th Avenue SW (Connecting Chief Sealth HS and the Westwood Village Bus Hub)
*Modernize the Intersection of 16th Ave SW & SW Holden Street (Highland Park)
*16th Avenue SW & SW Trenton St (Safe Route for Schools)
*Brandon St Sidewalks (Delridge to High Point)
*16th Ave & SW Holden Left Turn Signal
*South Delridge Alleyway Improvement
*(Highland Park) SW Henderson Accessibility Improvements
*9000 – 17th Avenue SW Natural Drainage

DNDC members (representing organizations from around eastern West Seattle) will then have to decide which five they support advancing to the city for further review. All welcome. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

MUCH MORE … on our calendar – please take a moment to browse it here.

(Male Calliope Hummingbird, photographed by Mark Wangerin, who says they’re not often seen in Seattle)

Lots happening today/tonight – here are some highlights:

EAT AT JOE’S, HELP THE FESTIVAL: The Endolyne Joe’s (WSB sponsor) dine-out fundraiser for the Fauntleroy Fall Festival today has expanded to the entire day/night; there’s also a silent auction during the dinner hours. (9261 45th SW)

CITY COUNCIL TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE: 2 pm at City Hall, with agenda items including a proposed resolution with the council’s feedback for Sound Transit 3 (as reported here Monday) and the Bicycle Master Plan implementation update (which includes the SW Admiral Way Safety Project). If you can’t be there, you can watch live on Seattle Channel. (4th/5th/Cherry/James)

POWER-FUL MEETING: Interested in info about your electricity service? This was announced by City Councilmember Lisa Herbold:

Join me and Seattle City Light (tonight) from 6 – 7 at Hiawatha Community Center. City Light will have a short presentation on the utility’s strategic investments, budget and rate proposal for 2017-2018. In addition to Q&A with City Light staff, applications will be available for the Utility Discount Program and information about the solar and conservation programs and customer rebates.

(2700 California SW)

SOFTBALL: Not in WS, but in case you want to go cheer them on, the Metro League champion West Seattle High School softball team opens district-tournament play tonight at 6 pm vs. Bainbridge at Southeast Athletic Complex. (8815 Seward Park Ave. S.)

EVENING BOOK GROUP: 6:30 pm at High Point Library: “Join us for a discussion of the 2016 Seattle Reads featured work, ‘We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves‘ by Karen Joy Fowler.” (35th SW/SW Raymond)

TUESDAY TUNE-UP: Support SASG at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor), featuring “live tunes by Piano-man and Emcee Victor Janusz with Medearis ‘MD’ Dixson on saxophone and Conor Apperson on drums.” Full details in our calendar listing! (1936 Harbor SW)

WEST SEATTLE CRIME PREVENTION COUNCIL: 7 pm at the Southwest Precinct, it’s your monthly chance to bring neighborhood concerns to local police, and to hear what they’re focused on. Also, WSCPC president Richard Miller has booked a guest from the city’s “code compliance” division – here’s what they enforce. All welcome. (2300 SW Webster)

LOTS MORE … on our complete calendar, for today/tonight/beyond.

(Barn swallow, photographed by Mark Wangerin)

Before we get to today’s highlights – if you’re here mostly for the bird photos, you might love a Saturday event just announced by the Duwamish Longhouse – a presentation on “Birds of the Duwamish Valley.” It’ll be in our calendar shortly; here’s their announcement.

Now, to today/tonight! – highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

EARLY DAYS: Drop-in support group for new parents, 10:30-noon. Suggested donation $10, but no one will be turned away. Info in our calendar listing. Meets at Nurturing Expressions (WSB sponsor) in The Junction. (4746 44th SW, Suite #201)

AFTERNOON BOOK GROUP: All welcome, 2 pm at Southwest Library. This month’s title is “Animal Dreams” by Barbara Kingsolver. (35th SW/SW Henderson)

TINKERLAB DROP-IN: 6-7:30 pm, fun STEM-based crafts for all ages, free, at Delridge Library.
(5423 Delridge Way SW)

HIGHLAND PARK ELEMENTARY PTA: The end of the school year is already in view, but that’s no time to disengage – if you’re in Highland Park, the HP Elementary PTA would love to see you at tonight’s meeting. From president Holly Briscoe:

Come out to help finalize the PTA’s Vision, Mission, and Core Values that we have been crafting this year, join in on the conversation about school accessibility, and take a walk around the school to help brainstorm projects for upcoming community service events. Have you considered being on the PTA Board, or would you like to nominate someone for next year? Now is the time! PTA meeting at 6:00. Snacks will be provided. Spanish interpreters will be available. Child care provided by City Year. All are welcome!

(1012 SW Trenton)

OLD-TIMEY COUNTRY MUSIC … with Collapsible Rodeo at Parliament Tavern, 8 pm, no cover. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

MORE … on our complete calendar!

(Male Western Tanager, seen at Alki Point after wintering in Mexico, photographed by Gary Jones)

Happy Sunday! From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, here are highlights for the hours ahead:

ALKI ELEMENTARY DONATION DRIVE CONTINUES: WSCGSD leftovers? Or just some general spring cleaning? The “Clothing for the Cause” textile-donation drive benefiting Alki Elementary continues – just take your items to the trailer on the south side of the school. They’re not only accepting clothes, but also other textile items – sheets, towels, etc. (3010 59th SW)

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm in The Junction. (California SW between Oregon and Alaska)

JAMTIME: Bluegrass and old-time music, live at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), with Jamtime, 1-4 pm. (5612 California SW)

‘SOUTHWEST STORIES’: 3 pm at Southwest Library, the free monthly “SouthWest Stories” series brings you the chance to hear from and talk with Carol-Ann Thornton, as previewed here last night.

BOOGIE-WOOGIE: 7:30 pm at Kenyon Hall, Arthur Migliazza performs, described as “the hottest young Blues and Boogie-Woogie pianist around.” More in our calendar listing, including how to make your reservation. (7904 35th SW)

(Barred Owl, photographed by Mark Wangerin)

Before West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day officially begins, a quick spin around our calendar highlights:

STAMP OUT HUNGER: Get your bag of nonperishable food out to your mailbox, set it next to your door, wherever your letter carrier picks up and delivers – today’s the one-day, door-to-door food drive held on the second Saturday every year by the National Association of Letter Carriers.

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE DAY: The second Saturday is also WSCGSD – 12th year! And WSB’s ninth year coordinating it. If you’ve missed our many previews, you can scroll through them here, and/or browse the official website, but all you really need to do is go browse the map and descriptions – in two formats you’ll find here. 9 am-3 pm is the official sale time, with 320+ participants this year, all over the peninsula!

TONY’S MARKET OPENS: The popular produce-and-more stand opens for 2016 at 9 am today, as reported here (with two other biznotes) on Friday. (35th SW/SW Barton)

MADISON PERFORMS ‘THE WIZARD OF OZ’: Madison Middle School Drama presents “The Wizard of Oz,” and the community is invited! 10 am at the West Seattle High School Theater. Tickets at the door, $10 students/$15 adults. (3000 California SW)

TIBBETTS BOOK SALE: 10 am-2 pm, $1 hard cover and $.50 paperback at Tibbetts United Methodist Church (WSB sponsor), books for all ages. (3940 41st SW)

GARDEN BEDS WORK PARTY: Join Little Red Hen Project building garden beds at Delridge Community Center, 11 am-3 pm. (4501 Delridge Way SW)

THUNDER ROAD GUITARS CLOSED THIS WEEKEND: As noted here on Friday, Thunder Road Guitars (WSB sponsor) in The Junction is closed this weekend because of the Tacoma Guitar Festival. (4736 California SW)

LIONS CLUB DINNER AND AUCTION: 5-9 pm at the Senior Center of West Seattle, join the WS Lions Club for their annual fun(draiser) – details in our calendar listing. (California SW/SW Oregon)

WHATEVERLY BROTHERS: At C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

SOME OTHER GUYS: Vintage rock at Parliament Tavern, 9 pm. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

(Photo copyright Araya Casey Photography)

Since we feature bird photos most days – today’s featured photo is the West Seattle Turkey, now in its second week of sightings (thanks to everyone who’s been sending word of where it’s been seen). On Wednesday, Tonya shared that photo by her daughter Araya, when the turkey turned up near the Alki promenade. That’ll be a busy spot today, turkey or no turkey, with temperatures headed into the 80s. Our official calendar highlights for tonight, meantime, are elsewhere on the peninsula:

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRAS: “Flights of Fire” is the theme for tonight’s 6:30 pm concert by WSCO’s Intermediate Orchestra and Wind Symphony, at the Chief Sealth International High School Auditorium. Admission free; donations appreciated. (2600 SW Thistle)

MADISON PERFORMS ‘THE WIZARD OF OZ’: Madison Middle School Drama presents two performances of “The Wizard of Oz,” and the community is invited! Tonight at 7 pm and Saturday morning at 10 am, both at the West Seattle High School Theater. Tickets are $10 in advance, or at the door, $10 students/$15 adults; e-mail jhpietsch@yahoo.com for reservations. (3000 California SW)

METRO LEAGUE SOFTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP: It’s West Seattle High School vs. Ballard HS at 7 pm tonight, Southwest Athletic Complex, for the league title! (2801 SW Thistle)

GARY BENSON, LIVE: Performing at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

THE WASHBOARD CUTUPS: Come to Kenyon Hall to hear The Washboard Cutups perform “blues, stomps, and rags” tonight, 7:30 pm. Reservation/ticket info is in our calendar listing. (7904 35th SW)

‘PARTY ROCK’ … with Box Punch, 9 pm tonight at Parliament Tavern. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

(Great Blue Heron chick! Photographed in West Seattle by Mark Wangerin)

Here’s what’s ahead for your West Seattle Thursday, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

DENNY’S FIRST MOVE-A-THON: 2:30 pm-4 pm at Denny International Middle School: “Scholars are invited to walk or run laps, speed jump, dance, play volleyball, toss bean bags with friends, shoot hoops, be the quarterback, play Frisbee and have snacks. There will be gift cards for activity participants to compete for, and a Kindle for the scholar with the most sponsor donations.” (2601 SW Kenyon)

TINKERLAB COMMONS: 4-6 pm at High Point Library, drop in and “create your own stop-motion animations using toys, props, our iPads, and your imaginations!” All ages; free; more info here. (35th SW/SW Raymond)

WEST SEATTLE ART WALK, MAY EDITION: 6-9 tonight, at more than a dozen locations around the peninsula, you’ll find art (and in many cases, artists) duringedition the West Seattle Art Walk! Here’s the map/venue list – this quqrter, stretching from Arbor Heights to Admiral to Puget Ridge and beyond:

Check the official Art Walk site at wsartwalk.com for venue links and highlights.

‘DEATH OF A SALESMAN’: 7:30 pm is curtain time tonight at ArtsWest Playhouse in The Junction. (4711 California SW)

(Fauntleroy Creek – photo by WSB’s Patrick Sand)

Here’s your highlight slate for what’s ahead today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

TODDLER STORY TIME: 10:30-11 am at Southwest Library. (35th SW/SW Henderson)

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: 10:30-11 am at West Seattle (Admiral) Library. (2306 42nd SW)

BABY STORY TIME: 11:30-noon at High Point Library. (35th SW/SW Raymond)

LOCAL BUSINESS MEETUP: Take a break at noon and go meet your fellow local entrepreneurs at West Seattle Office Junction (WSB sponsor)! Bring your own lunch and see who else shows up. (6040 California SW)

SOMALI STORY TIME: 5-5:30 pm at High Point Library. (35th SW/SW Raymond)

WSHS DIVERSITY DINNER: West Seattle High School‘s Diversity Club invites everyone in the community to tonight’s Diversity Dinner, 6-8 pm. It’s a potluck, so bring something if you can. Most important, though, to bring yourself – and family, friends, neighbors … (3000 California SW)

34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS’ ENDORSEMENT MEETING: 7 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroywww, our area’s largest political organization considers endorsements for more of this year’s races – see the agenda here. (9131 California SW)

SEE WHAT ELSE IS UP … on our complete calendar.