Thanks to Minette Layne for sharing the photo of an East Pacific red octopus – Octopus rubescens – seen in the intertidal zone, near Lincoln Park, over the weekend, only about 3″ long. Low tide tops our quick list of what’s up today/tonight:

TIDE’S STILL LOW: -2.4 feet at 1:59 pm, per the chart.

FIRST WORLD CUP MATCH FOR U.S. TEAM: 3 pm our time, it’s the U.S. vs. Ghana. Local venues reported to be showing all games include The Bridge, West Seattle Brewing, OutWest Bar, Celtic Swell, Skylark. Who else? Comment, or e-mail us!

PATHFINDER PLAYGROUND DESIGN: As previewed here over the weekend, tonight’s the night you can be among the first to see the design for a new playground at Pathfinder K-8 on Pigeon Point. Ice-cream social, too! 5:30 pm. (1901 SW Genesee)

TRAVELING? The annual “sidewalk sale” continues at the West Seattle AAA HQ (WSB sponsor) in Jefferson Square: Travel books, luggage (up to 50% discount), AAA car accessories.

(Log House Museum’s totem pole, by Danny McMillin, shared via WSB Flickr group)>
From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

WEST SEATTLE CUP: “Final score” for Day 1, as published on the WSC Facebook page – 359 “conversations for understanding,” 226 “goals scored together.” Go see for yourself on Day 2 of this one-of-a-kind soccer-and-community event – bring Dad! – 8:45 am-6:15 pm at Walt Hundley Playfield. (31st/32nd/34th/Myrtle)

FRIENDS OF LINCOLN PARK … would welcome your help removing invasive growth that keeps trying to choke this West Seattle jewel, 9-noon – full details in our calendar listing. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: Last week, we noticed lots of strawberries and lettuce, and still, plenty of plants. Go explore and see what you discover this week. 10 am-2 pm. (44th/Alaska)

FATHER’S DAY FOOD: Dine in West Seattle today, where you’ll find offerings like the Duos Lounge barbecue (see the menu here), 11 am-4 pm. And steps away, also in Luna Park …

BRING DAD TO SEE GLASS-ART-MAKING: 11 am-5 pm, you’re welcome to come in and watch glass-blowers at work in the studio at Avalon Glassworks in Luna Park – more info in our listing. (2914 SW Avalon Way)

SEE THE TOTEM POLE, AND THE EXHIBIT, AND … Lots to see and do at the Log House Museum, including checking out the newly restored and installed Admiral Way totem pole (photo above). It’s open noon-4 pm. (61st/Stevens)

BASEBALL TOURNAMENT: Tony reminds us of the 8U Hardball Classic at the Pee Wee Fields; he says games start 11:30 this morning, and: “Also there are three west Seattle teams in the top 8 out of 19 teams. The WestSide Riverdogs are the top seed.” (12th/Myrtle)

KITTY HARBOR, DAY 2: The cat/kitten adoption/shelter facility by the West Seattle Bridge is open for its summer season, with more cats awaiting you today. Noon-5 pm. (3422 Harbor Ave. SW)

TOUR ALKI POINT LIGHTHOUSE: Third weekend of the season for free tours with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary at Alki Point Lighthouse, 1-4 pm. (3200 Point Place)

LOW-LOW TIDE, AND STARFISH REMINDER: At 1:11 pm, it’s a -3.0 tide, not quite as low as Saturday, but almost. Naturalists are out at Constellation and Lincoln Parks, 11 am-3:30 pm. And please be on the lookout for starfish – here’s why.

BINGO BENEFIT: This time around, “Booze, Balls, and Bingo” drag bingo at the Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) is raising money for Bailey-Boushay House. More info in our calendar listing; 5:30 pm. (6451 California SW)

YES, THERE’S MORE … on our calendar.

Thanks to Trileigh Tucker for the three photos – above and below – of young pileated woodpeckers and their dad “in a West Seattle tree.” Speaking of nature/wildlife, that’s where we begin today’s list of highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

EXPLORE THE BEACH AT LOW TIDE: The lowest tide of the summer is coming up in a few days – and beach naturalists will be out at Constellation and Lincoln Parks starting today. With today’s low tide at a good-for-exploring -1.8 feet right as we publish this, they’re out until 1 pm.

FAIRMOUNT PARK ELEMENTARY INFO SESSION: Another info session for families considering attending or planning to attend Fairmount Park Elementary when it reopens this summer – 6 pm at Alki Elementary. (3010 59th SW)

RETIREMENT PARTY FOR MS. ROLLINS AND MS. BELFOR: Two longtime teachers at Lafayette Elementary are retiring from that school – Ms. Rollins and Ms. Belfor – and since they’ve worked with thousands of students and families over the years, the school community wants to make sure everyone gets the word – 6:30 to 9 pm at Hiawatha Community Center; more info here. (2700 California SW)

WSHS SPRING CONCERT: 7 pm tonight in the West Seattle High School theater: “Join the West Seattle High School String Orchestra, Concert Band and Jazz Ensemble for our Spring Concert on June 11th. We will feature the music of Mozart, Haydn, Telemann, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Benny Carter, Paul Dukas and Sam Hazo.” (3000 California SW)

34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS: Three hot topics are part of the 34th DDs’ agenda at 7 pm, The Hall at Fauntleroy. As updated by 34th DDs president Marcee Stone-Vekich:

While only 34th DD members can participate in votes, the meeting is otherwise open to the public. (9131 California SW)

BINGO, KARAOKE, TRIVIA, OPEN MIKE … you have options along all of those lines in the nightlife listings for tonight – check out our calendar!

(Iris, photographed by “old desolate,” shared via WSB Flickr pool)
Last big night of neighborhood meetings before many groups take summer breaks. So go get involved! Three meetings – including one for ALL of West Seattle – are part of our highlights list for the rest of today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

FABIO AT METROPOLITAN MARKET: He’s back! A year and a half after his last visit, model turned nutrition guru Fabio is at Metropolitan Market (WSB sponsor) in Admiral this afternoon, 3-7 pm. (42nd/41st/Admiral)

SENDOFF FOR ARBOR HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY: Tonight, 6-8 pm, you’re invited to the goodbye party at soon-to-be-demolished-and-replaced Arbor Heights Elementary School, as previewed here. (3701 SW 104th)

STORYTELLING: Storytellers’ workshop and open-microphone event at Chaco Canyon Organic Café, starting at 6 pm – details in our listing. (38th/Alaska)

WEST SEATTLE TRANSPORTATION COALITION: So, what about Bertha? The rest of 99? Washington State Ferries? Other state transportation facilities/projects affecting our area? WSDOT secretary Lynn Peterson is tonight’s guest, as previewed on the WSTC website. 6:30 pm, Neighborhood House’s High Point Center. (6400 Sylvan Way)

ADMIRAL NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION: 7 pm, The Sanctuary at Admiral. Summer events are in tonight’s spotlight – including the Summer Concerts at Hiawatha plan (presented by ANA, co-sponsored again this year by WSB) and the 4th of July Kids’ Parade (here’s our update from last weekend). All welcome. (42nd/Lander)

FREE COMMUNITY/NEIGHBORHOOD LEGAL CLINIC: Appointments start at 7 pm at the Senior Center of West Seattle (WSB sponsor) – see our calendar listing for info on how to make one. (California/Oregon)

FAUNTLEROY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION: 7 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy, with the announced agenda for FCA including “discussion of boats at Cove Park, an upcoming community survey, lifetime FCA memberships, the handrail at Fauntleroy School, motorcycle noise, the Fauntleroy Food Fest, abandoned City Light substations, and traffic issues.” (9131 California SW)

P.S. As always, you’ll find even more, including nightlife listings, if you take a quick look at the calendar.

P.P.S., 12:46 PM: Added:

The South Seattle College Culinary Council is excited to announce our inaugural Pop-up Restaurant Fundraiser! All proceeds will go toward improving and benefiting South’s Culinary Program.

The featured guest chef for this special evening will be Executive Chef Brandon LaVielle of Emerald Cove Catering. Brandon is a graduate of the SSCC Culinary Program and has over 10 years of industry experience. Brandon has created an amazing menu featuring fresh and local ingredients. We have also collaborated with the Northwest Wine Academy to offer complimentary tastings from wines they will be presenting at the NWWA Annual Spring Release on June 12-14, 2014. Come join us for an incredible evening of food, wine, and networking benefiting a great cause!

WHEN:​Tuesday, June 10, ​6:30 pm
WHERE:​Alhadeff Grill, ​South Seattle College, ​6000 16th Avenue SW

CAPACITY:​We are limiting the number of guests to the first 30 who RSVP.

PRICE:​$50.00

RSVP REQUIRED:​ Go here

(Osprey and snack/meal, photographed by Chris Frankovich; click image to see larger view)
Happy Monday! From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

OUTDOOR-MEETING SEASON OPENER: The North Delridge Neighborhood Council started having its summertime meetings outdoors a few years ago, and that’s why you’ll find NDNC at Cottage Grove Park tonight at 6:30, as previewed here. (26th/Brandon)

GOT FOOD? West Seattle Food Bank has a request (via Facebook):

We’re really getting low on canned goods for our Home Delivery Program. We deliver 170 grocery bags weekly to homebound elderly and disabled. If you wish to donate canned food (tuna, soups, canned fruit & vegetables, beans, etc.) please drop off at the food bank, Monday – Friday 9 am – 3 pm.

(35th/Morgan)

EVENING BOOK GROUPS: Two monthly book groups – no previous membership needed! – meet at local libraries tonight at 6:45 pm – at Southwest Branch Library, “The Condition” is this month’s book, group info here; at West Seattle Branch Library, “A Gate at the Stairs” is this month’s book, group info here.

ST. PETERSBURG MEN’S ENSEMBLE: From Russia, with music! This highly regarded group is performing sacred and traditional vocal music at 7 pm at Peace Lutheran Church in Gatewood; free-will offering. (39th/Thistle)

NIGHTLIFE! Tonight’s highlights include trivia/pub quiz at multiple locations – see the listings on our calendar.

(Harbor seal photographed this week by Mark Wangerin)
It’s a quiet almost-summer Sunday around the peninsula, with half a dozen highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

FARMERS’ MARKET: The West Seattle Farmers Market is open today and every Sunday with locally grown produce and flowers, locally raised meat, and more, 10 am-2 pm.

WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Need something for a project? For yard work? The trailblazing Tool Library is open 11 am-4 pm on Sundays (and Saturdays, and 5-8 pm Tuesdays/Thursdays) on the northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

HAPPY 10TH BIRTHDAY, HIGH POINT LIBRARY! It’s been a decade since the current High Point Branch Library opened. You’re invited to the anniversary celebration, 1-3:30 pm; info in our calendar listing. (35th/Raymond)

MUSIC AND COFFEE: At C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 3-5 pm, you’ll be serenaded by Jonny Woods, “in the style of of Jason Mraz meets Jack Johnson, acoustic pop.” (5612 California SW)

‘SABBATH IN THE SUBURBS’: In this hectic world, can you find time for downtime? Author Rev. MaryAnn McKibben-Dana has written about it and invites you, whatever your faith, to her free talk at The Hall at Fauntleroy, 4 pm. RSVP by calling Peace Lutheran Church at 206-935-1962. (9131 California SW)

FREE CONCERT: The Fauntleroy Church Choir‘s spring concert, under the direction of Bronwyn Edwards, is at 5 pm, with a reception afterward. (9140 California SW)

The Highway 99 camera relates to the traffic/transit alerts that we start with today:

TRAFFIC/TRANSIT NOTES: First, road work – Southbound Highway 99 is scheduled to be closed all weekend; lane closures are happening on northbound I-5 by the offramp from the West Seattle Bridge; the 520 bridge across Lake Washington is closed, so everybody’s using I-90. Second, buses – It’s the first day of Metro‘s June service change; the only direct West Seattle effect is the afternoon schedule for Route 21, which has some changes. And to our south, the sixth and final RapidRide line, the F Line, launches today.

Now, event highlights from our calendar:

KIDS’ FISHING POND: The West Seattle Sportsmen’s Club‘s annual tradition – a temporary fishing pond stocked with trout for kids under 14 to try their luck, cane poles and bait provided, first-come first-served, first 100 kids or until supplies run out, 8 am-11 am at Seacrest. (1660 Harbor SW)

TRACK MEET: ‘Friendly competition’ open to everyone 19 and up at this track meet at West Seattle Stadium, 8:30 am (registration) and 9 am-5 pm competition, details here. (4432 35th SW)

BASEBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS: Two divisions of West Seattle Baseball have championship games today, 11 am:

The Pinto game will feature Alki Lumber versus Menashe. The Mustang game has West Seattle Design Build facing Menashe. The Championship Games will be preceded by introduction of the players, followed by the National Anthem. Then the Ceremonial First Pitches will be thrown by Jack Miller of Husky Deli and King County Councilmember Joe McDermott. Pinto is for boys and girls who turn 7 before August 31 and who turn 8 after April 30 of the current year. Mustang is for kids who turn 9 before August 31 and turn 10 after April 30 of the current year.

(7226 12th SW)

GREEN RIVER MARATHON, FINISHING ON ALKI: The annual, low-key Green River Marathon starts from 8:30 a.m. in the Kent area and continues on to West Seattle, finishing in the 2600 block of Alki SW. First finishers last year made the 26.2 miles in about three hours. Info here.

FREE SHREDDING: Bring up to four boxes of shreddable paper to the PB&J Textiles open house in White Center, 9 am-1 pm, as previewed here, along with other event highlights. (10728 16th SW)

HELP TIDY UP MORGAN JUNCTION PARK: Join Friends of Morgan Junction Parks at 11 am today – our calendar listing explains how you can help.

SEE THE TOTEM POLE AND EXHIBITS! Log House Museum‘s regular hours today, noon-4 pm. (61st/Stevens)

TOUR ALKI POINT LIGHTHOUSE: Second weekend of the season for free tours with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary at Alki Point Lighthouse, 1-4 pm. (3200 Point Place)

ARBOR HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY CARNIVAL: 3-6 pm, last carnival before the new school construction begins – come have fun with games, food, face-painting, more. Wristbands and individual tickets, as explained here. (3701 SW 104th)

‘THE BUILDING’ ARTIST OPENING: The second annual art event at artist-studios headquarters The Building in Gatewood, 4-9 pm – details in our calendar listing. (4316 SW Othello)

FINAL NIGHT FOR ‘HAIR’: Last performance of the musical’s run at ArtsWest (WSB sponsor). 7:30 pm curtain time. (4711 California SW)

NIGHTLIFE AND EVEN MORE … on the calendar!

(WSB photo: Marine traffic off Alki earlier this week)
Happy Friday! Busy day/night ahead – highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

CITY YEAR RALLY AT SANISLO: As announced by Sanislo Elementary:

Sanislo Elementary was fortunate enough to receive the Family and Education Levy Grant for the 2014-15 school year. As part of the grant, Sanislo will be partnering with City Year, an agency that will support the academic, social-emotional and attendance needs of students in collaboration with school staff. On Friday morning at 9:30 a.m., in anticipation of next school year, City Year will be at Sanislo to cheer on and greet students as they enter the building tomorrow morning. The Sanislo Community is extremely excited as we move into this fabulous partnership.

(1812 SW Myrtle)

TOTEM POLE UNVEILING: At 10:30 am (but get there early!), you’re invited to join West Seattle-rooted dignitaries, schoolchildren, longtime community leaders, and others at the Log House Museum for the unveiling of the renovated totem pole that overlooked the Admiral Way viewpoint 1966-2006. The intersection outside the LHM will be closed for the occasion. Here’s our newest preview. (61st/Stevens)

D-DAY ANNIVERSARY FLYOVER: As previewed here yesterday, three P-51 Mustangs are flying over the region to mark the 70th anniversary of D-Day, and you’ll likely see/hear them from here during the afternoon – starting with their downtown Seattle flyover at noon, after which they head to Boeing Field and points south, including Vashon just after 1:30. Our Thursday story includes the schedule. (Various locations)

WEST SEATTLE HS ALL-SCHOOL REUNION: The annual tradition starts with classic cars on SW Stevens outside the school at 4:30, and then events inside after the doors open at 5 pm, as detailed on the WSHS Alumni Association website. Whichever year/s you were at WSHS, you’re invited. (3000 California SW)

BENEFIT CARNIVAL: 5-7 pm, Mount View Elementary‘s carnival fundraiser not only benefits programs at the school but also has a goal of raising money to help with the education of kids in Honduras, where your schooling stops after elementary years if you don’t have tuition $. Read our preview here. (10811 12th SW)

BRENDA PETERSON @ WORDS, WRITERS, & WEST SEATTLE: New time for the monthly author-reading/signing series at Barnes and Noble/Westwood Village – 5 to 7 pm, starting with this month’s featured West Seattle writer, Brenda Peterson, as previewed here. (2600 SW Barton)

CORNER BAR: The Highland Park Improvement Club‘s pop-up bar goes Jamaican tonight, starting at 6 pm – details in our calendar listing. All ages until 9 pm. (12th/Holden)

WINE TASTING: Summer sips and light appetizers plus a silent auction to benefit the scholarship fund at Center Studio (WSB sponsor) – details in our calendar listing. (9611 16th SW)

THAT’S JUST THE START … lots more on our calendar.

Thanks to Mark Wangerin for the photo of a Caspian tern with a meal/snack; he explains, “Caspian terns have been making their presence known in our area for about a month. Their raspy squawk eliminates the gulls from identification. They can be seen working the waters of the Duwamish by Kellogg Island or at the ferry terminal or even cruising over the golf course. They typically cruise head/bill down searching for fish near the surface. Once spotted, they dive completely underwater like an osprey does. Unlike the osprey, they capture fish using their beak.” And with that, we dive into a few calendar highlights for today/tonight:

SSCC PLANT SALE: 11 am-3 pm, the garden center on the north side of the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus is open and selling plants, benefiting the horticulture program. (6000 16th SW)

BIKE BRAKES: Do yours need help? Get free assistance at DIY Bikes tonight at the West Seattle Tool Library, 6-8 pm on the northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

SPIRITS FOR SPORTS: As previewed here last weekend, the West Seattle Booster Club‘s benefit pub crawl in The Junction is tonight – 6-9 pm, info here, raising $ for WS High School sports. (Various locations)

DENNY-SEALTH CONCERT: Last night, the Denny International Middle School and Chief Sealth International High School orchestras performed their final concert of the school year (thanks to Denny principal Jeff Clark for the photo):

Tonight, it’s the bands’ turn – 7 pm, Sealth auditorium, free. (2600 SW Thistle)

POP-UP SHOP: From the Black Lodge presents a touring pop-up shop with independent artists and designers’ “dark, mystical handmade goods” tonight at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 7 pm-11 pm, explained here. (6451 California SW)

FINAL WEEK FOR ‘HAIR’: Haven’t seen it yet at ArtsWest (WSB sponsor)? Don’t let your chance slip away – tonight is the third-to-last performance, 7:30 pm curtain time. (4711 California SW)

LOTS MORE! … on the calendar.

(Black-headed grosbeak, photographed by Mark Wangerin)
A few highlights for the hours ahead, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK: One more reminder, since we were asked about this over the weekend, with the sunny, warm weather continuing – yes, Highland Park Spraypark, the only spraypark in West Seattle, is open for the season, 11 am-8 pm daily, though the wading pools don’t open for a few more weeks. (1100 SW Cloverdale)

UKULELE CONCERT: 2:30 pm in Hatten Hall at the Senior Center of West Seattle, renowned ukulele player Clarence Kiyoshi Hirakawa performs, $5 suggested donation. (California/Oregon)

HOMEWORK HELP: Last full week of school for most local students – need last-minute homework help? It starts at 3 pm at the High Point Branch Library, 4 pm at Delridge Branch Library. Full details and links on the Seattle Public Library Calendar of Events.

GET THE LATEST ON THE NEW ARBOR HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY: As previewed here, tonight’s the night for a community-info meeting with the latest on the project, as construction gets closer – the design, the timetable, more. Q/A, too. 6:30 pm at AHES. (3701 SW 104th)

MONDAY NIGHT KARAOKE … at the Benbow Room in The Admiral District, 8 pm. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

MORE … on our calendar, for today/tonight and weeks into the future!

(Ferns in Lincoln Park, photographed by Mark Ahlness, shared via WSB Flickr group)

Options for your sunny Sunday, as we begin a brand-new month:

CURIOUS KIDSTUFF SALE: 9 am-5 pm, West Seattle’s independent local toy shop Curious Kidstuff (WSB sponsor) has EVERYTHING discounted 20 percent today for the Sizzling Summer Sale. (4740 California SW)

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm, see what’s fresh! The My Sweet Li’l Cakes food truck is scheduled to be there again, too. (44th/Alaska)

WEST SEATTLE ULTIMATE FAMILY FRISBEE: Join the games, 11 am at Fairmount Playfield – details here. (5400 Fauntleroy Way SW)

LUNA PARK STREET MARKET: Noon-3 pm, the lot outside Ola will become a street market with local vendors – first of four Sundays this summer. (2942 SW Avalon Way)

SWIM OUTDOORS! The outdoor pool on the shore at Lincoln Park is in its second pre-season weekend, open at noon – see the schedule here.

ALKI POINT LIGHTHOUSE TOURS: Second day of the season for free tours with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary at Alki Point Lighthouse, 1-4 pm. (3200 Point Place)

READY TO SING FOR YOU: The WS-based Seattle Metropolitan Glee Club performs its spring concert at Peace Lutheran Church, 3 pm, admission by donation. (39th/Thistle)

GARY BENSON AT C & P: Soloist Gary Benson plays live at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 3-5 pm. (5612 California SW)

FINAL MATINEE OF ‘HAIR’: It’s the last week of “Hair” at ArtsWest (WSB sponsor), and today’s your last chance to see a matinee performance, 3 pm. Tickets available online here. (4711 California SW)

(Great blue heron and snack, photographed at Constellation Park on Friday by Gary Jones)
Yes, all this really is happening in the next 12 hours or so – and this isn’t even EVERYTHING on the calendar (go see for yourself):

BIKE TRAIL MAKEOVER: 9 am-noon, come help make the SW Andover bike trail safer – details in our calendar listing. (32nd/Andover)

MEXICAN FOOD FAIR FUNDRAISER: Community of Hope Church invites you to come buy homemade Mexican food 9 am-4 pm. (8600 9th SW)

(added) BENEFIT CAR WASH: This year’s Relay for Life, raising money to fight cancer, is coming up, and a team is having a benefit car wash at West Seattle Autoworks (WSB sponsor) today, by donation, 10 am-2 pm. (35th/Webster)

FREE SHREDDING AND E-CYCLING: 10 am-1 pm, bring your shreddable documents and recyclable electronics to the West Seattle Junction parking lot off 42nd between Oregon and Alaska. Here’s our preview, which includes a link to find out what’s e-cyclable and what’s not. (4500 block 42nd SW)

DENNY-LINCOLN CLASSIC BIKE RIDE: Watch for Denny International Middle School scholars, families, and staff on the road during their second annual ride from the school to Lincoln Park, celebrating the end of Bike to School Month and more. 10 am-noon. (2601 SW Kenyon)

TALK WITH YOUR SCHOOL BOARD REP: Last chance this school year to meet with West Seattle’s school-board rep Marty McLaren – bring your questions/concerns. 10 am-noon, Southwest Branch Library. (35th/Henderson)

YACHT RACE IN THE DISTANCE: FYI for west-facing water-watchers, the Blake Island Race is set for 10:30 am-6:30 pm today, with yachts starting from Port Orchard, circling Blake Island, and heading back – details in the club’s annual handbook (page 23).

HELP THE HELPLINE – BUY BBQ! Benefit barbecue at West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor) today will benefit West Seattle Helpline, 11 am-4 pm. Look for the tent! (California/Fauntleroy/Morgan)

DELRIDGE GROCERY CO-OP OWNERS/MEMBERS MEETING: First annual meeting of current or future co-op owners as Delridge Grocery‘s board members outline where things stand and what happens next. Salvation Army, 11 am-1:30 pm. (9050 16th SW)

EXPLORE THE BEACH WITH NATURALISTS: One last time before the mid-June low tides arrive, explore Constellation Park or Lincoln Park shores with the Seattle Aquarium volunteer beach naturalists, on hand 11:30 am-2:30 pm today.

VIETNAMESE STORY TIME: 11:30 am-noon at Delridge Branch Library. (5423 Delridge Way SW)

COLMAN POOL’S SECOND PRESEASON WEEKEND: The outdoor pool on the shore at Lincoln Park is open for its second pre-season weekend, starting today at noon. Schedule here.

INCREASE THE PEACE: Free community festival in the lot next to Ginomai Art Center, noon-4 pm. Free kids’ face-painting, free food & beverages, music, conversation. (4401 42nd SW)

GATEWOOD ELEMENTARY ‘GATOR FEST’: Mary sends word of Gatewood Elementary‘s spring fair, 1 pm-4 pm: “We avoid plastic toys and focus instead on fun, environmentally friendly summer activities and will feature marine touch tanks from the MaST Center, The Whale Trail, Home Depot kits, a worm bin build, The Makery and a jump rope demonstration by Jump Works as well as other attractions.” (4320 SW Myrtle)

ALKI POINT LIGHTHOUSE TOUR SEASON BEGINS: Today through August 31st, you can tour the lighthouse on Alki Point 1-4 pm Saturdays and Sundays.

(WSB photo from June 2013)
There’s a little schedule divergence later in the summer – see the official webpage for details. (3200 Point Place)

BEEP BASEBALL: West Seattle is home to the South King Sluggers, who play beep baseball – designed so that sight-impaired/blind players can come to the plate – and today you are invited to watch them play a Seattle Police team. 1:30-3:30 pm at Walt Hundley Playfield #2 – details in our preview. (6920 34th SW)

SANISLO ELEMENTARY POETS … are among the young poets reading at Elliott Bay Book Company on Capitol Hill at 2 pm today. They would welcome your support; reception follows the reading. (1521 10th Ave.)

WEST SEATTLE GREEN SPACES: The organization working on a community vision for the future of Seattle City Light surplus properties in West Seattle has its next meeting at 3 pm at Delridge Library – all welcome. (5423 Delridge Way SW)

WEST SEATTLE 15NOW ACTION GROUP: Diane shares word of this local group in the $15-minimum-wage movement meeting at 3 pm at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), looking ahead to what’s next as the City Council prepares to vote Monday on a version of the $15 minimum. (5612 California SW)

‘HAIR’: Second-to-last weekend to see the musical at ArtsWest (WSB sponsor), onstage tonight at 7;30 pm. (4711 California SW)

NIGHTLIFE! See tonight’s highlighted music listings on our calendar.

(Looking west from The Triangle toward The Junction – photo by Long B. Nguyen)
If your Friday night’s not locked down yet – options abound:

RAINBOW BINGO: “Stars & Stripes” is the theme – doors open at 6 pm at Senior Center of West Seattle, but call fast to see if there’s still space available! (California/Oregon)

SING OUT! West Seattle Christian Church invites one and all to a Hymn Sing tonight at 7 pm. (4400 42nd SW)

ROCK, POP, PREMIERE! Tonight’s the night for the West Seattle Community Orchestras‘ final concert till fall – including the premiere of Rob Duisberg‘s new symphony (featured in our preview published earlier) as well as “rock and pop songs as you’ve never heard them.” Go see your neighbors making music. 7:30 pm, Chief Sealth International High School auditorium. (2600 SW Thistle)

MUSIC AT DUOS: The Triangular Jazztet with guest pianist Orin Sand, 7:30-10:30 pm at Duos Lounge (WSB sponsor), and check out the patio! (2940 SW Avalon Way)

WITCHBURN UNPLUGGED … with special guests, as part of the group’s video-premiere event @ Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 8 pm. (6451 California SW)

HAVE FUN, HELP KITTENS … and grown-up cats too. Tonight’s the night for the West Side Glory “Feline Groovy” benefit at Skylark Café and Club, helping the local shelter Kitty Harbor. 9 pm with an all-star lineup, as noted in our preview. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

EVEN MORE HAPPENING TONIGHT … browse our calendar to see what else is up!

(Tuesday night’s sunset, by Lynn Hall; did you see last night’s cloud formations?)
Six possibilities for the day/night ahead:

LOW TIDE, WITH BEACH NATURALISTS: Low tide is at 11:22 am today, this time down to -1.8, and you have another chance to explore with the advice of Seattle Aquarium volunteer beach naturalists. Look for them (there should be signs) south of Alki Point and on the beach at Lincoln Park near Colman Pool, now until 1 pm. (See our calendar listing for other upcoming dates – tomorrow’s low tide will be even further out.

WEST SEATTLE TIMEBANK: It’s your next chance to get involved with the West Seattle Timebank – 6:30 pm potluck, 7 pm orientation for new members (concurrent with a membership meeting), details in our calendar listing. At the Senior Center of West Seattle. (California/Oregon)

HIGHLAND PARK ACTION COMMITTEE’S LAST MEETING BEFORE FALL: After tonight, HPAC is on meeting hiatus until fall, so come to HPIC tonight to find out what’s happening in HP. As announced:

Our agenda includes representatives from King County’s Wastewater Treatment Division to update us on the potential *roadside rain garden project in Highland Park* that we talked about in the fall. They spent the winter doing geotechnical testing and want to let neighbors know what they found out, and implications for a potential project.We will also be hearing from a friend and neighbor involved in Highland Park Elementary’s PTA with an exciting collaboration opportunity.

Potluck at 6:30, meeting at 7. (12th/Holden)

POETRY AND STORYTELLING: Listen, participate, or do both at the monthly night for poems/stories/open mike at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7 pm. (5612 California SW)

CAMPER VAN BEETHOVEN, LIVE: Easy Street Records will rock at 7:30 pm tonight with a live in-store by longtime faves Camper Van Beethoven, who will stick around for signing afterward. (California/Alaska)

‘LONG AS I CAN GROW IT …’ Seen the acclaimed production of “Hair” at ArtsWest (WSB sponsor) yet? Next immersion in the Summer of Love is at 7:30 pm; info here. (4711 California SW)

MORE … on our calendar!

(West Seattle tidepool photo from mid-May by Don Brubeck, shared via the WSB Flickr group)
Back from the holiday weekend? Or, still relaxing? Whichever’s the case for you, there’s a calendar highlight of potential interest on today’s list:

LOW TIDE, WITH BEACH NATURALISTS: Low tide at 10:46 am today is down to -1.5 and brings the debut of this year’s Seattle Aquarium volunteer beach naturalists schedule. South of Alki Point and on the beach at Lincoln Park near Colman Pool, you’ll find naturalists to help you knowledgeably and carefully explore the shore, 9:30 am until 12:30 pm today (see our calendar listing for other upcoming dates, including tomorrow, when low tide will be even lower).

HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK: Not that we’re expecting mega-warm temps today, but as we saw on Saturday, you don’t need mega-warm temps for kids to get excited about playing in the water. So we’re reminding you that Highland Park Spraypark is now open daily 11 am-8 pm until September 1st. (1100 SW Cloverdale)

BABY STORY TIME: 11:30 am, from newborns to year-olds, wee ones are welcome at Southwest Library – it’s a story time just for them. (35th/Henderson)

FIGHTING AUTO THEFT: What’s the Seattle Police plan to fight auto theft? Hear directly from SPD – and ask your questions – at tonight’s West Seattle Block Watch Captains’ Network meeting, 6:30 pm at the Southwest Precinct. You don’t have to be part of a Block Watch to attend – all welcome. (Webster/Delridge)

LIVE MUSIC: From 5:30 pm at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor) with Justin Kausal-Hayes, to 9 pm with Shadowland‘s singer-songwriter showcase, and other venues along the way, lots of music tonight – see the listings on our calendar!

(Lincoln Park photo by wsLaura, shared via the WSB Flickr group)
Highlights for day 2 of your Memorial Day weekend, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

FIRE IT UP! The wood-fired oven at Barton Street Community Garden and P-Patch is getting fired up for the season today and you’re invited to stop by for bread-baking and pizza-making, 10 am-5 pm. What to bring? Where to go? That’s all answered in our original preview. (34th/Barton)

FARMERS’ MARKET: Strawberries and basil are some of what will debut today at the West Seattle Farmers’ Market, 10 am-2 pm, according to previews on its Facebook page. Share the news with a comment here if YOU find something cool. (44th/Alaska)

GOT YOUR POPPY YET?: Second chance to “honor the dead and help the living” by getting your poppy from American Legion Post 160/Auxiliary Unit 160, 10 am-3 pm at West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor), as explained here. (Fauntleroy/California/Morgan)

COLMAN POOL’S SECOND DAY OF 2014: The first “pre-season weekend” continues at Lincoln Park‘s outdoor pool. Swimming starts at noon – see the schedule here.

SUMMER OF LOVE, +47: It’s 1967 in 2014 at ArtsWest (WSB sponsor) as “Hair” continues, with a 3 pm matinee today. (4711 California SW)

IZZY WATER, LIVE: Solo singer-songwriter from California will serenade you at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor) 3-5 pm today. (5612 California SW)

Thanks to Michael for sharing that photo from Friday via the WSB Facebook page. Highlights for the first day of the holiday weekend, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

WEST SEATTLE HS BASEBALL TEAM @ STATE: 10 am in Mount Vernon, the West Seattle High School Wildcats face Shelton HS as state-tournament play begins. It’ll be tweeted live at @wseattlestate. (Winner faces the winner of Bonney Lake-Glacier Peak later in the day; here’s the bracket.)

SEATTLE LUTHERAN HS BASEBALL TEAM @ STATE: Also at 10 am, state-tournament play begins for Seattle Lutheran High School. The preview is from Joe Puckett:

On Saturday, Seattle Lutheran will continue the quest for its third 2B state baseball championship in the last 5 years. The first game is at 10 AM in Adna against Toutle Lake. If Sealu prevails, they will face the winner of the game between Napavine and Tri-Cities Prep later in the afternoon. A win in the second game would mean that the Saints would move on to the 4-team finale on May 31. Here is a link to the entire bracket for the 16 teams remaining in the hunt for the championship.

GET YOUR POPPY: “Honor the dead and help the living” by getting your poppy from American Legion Post 160/Auxiliary Unit 160 this weekend, starting 10 am-3 pm today at West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor), as previewed here. (Fauntleroy/California/Morgan)

HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK’S FIRST DAY OF 2014: Today’s temperature is likely to break 70, so that means there’s a good chance the Highland Park Spraypark will open for its second season, 11 am-8 pm today, as scheduled. (1100 SW Cloverdale)

COLMAN POOL’S FIRST DAY OF 2014: The outdoor pool on the shore at Lincoln Park opens for the season – well, the first pre-season weekend – today at noon. Details here.

(added) PICNIC FOR ‘LOLITA’: 4 pm at Alki Beach, supporters of the campaign to free the last Puget Sound orca surviving in captivity, Lolita/Tokitae, are gathering in solidarity with events elsewhere in the country. Vegetarian potluck. Specific location (and other) details in this Facebook event page.

‘HAIR’: 7:30 pm, let it all hang out with the classic musical at ArtsWest (WSB sponsor) in The Junction. More info in our calendar listing. (4711 California SW)

PIANO & ‘SILENT MOVIES’: Pianist Donald Sosin accompanies silent-movie shorts at Kenyon Hall, 7:30 pm. (7904 35th SW)

KAZOKU! IMPROVISED GAME SHOW: 8 pm tonight is the final night for the first run of “Kazoku!” at Pershing Hall in The Triangle – details in our calendar listing. (3618 SW Alaska)

LIVE MUSIC AND MORE … in all the other listings you’ll see on our calendar.

(Spotted towhee, photographed by Mark Wangerin)
With the holiday weekend in view, things are getting quieter. Almost quiet enough to hear the birds sing in the middle of a busy day (some of them start before dawn – 4:15 am, today!). But we’re still seeing gems on the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, including:

TOUR THE LONGHOUSE WITH THE DUWAMISH TRIBE’S LEADER: 1-2 pm, with discounted admission as part of Museum Week, you’re invited to tour the Duwamish Longhouse with Cecile Hansen, longtime elected chair of the Duwamish Tribe and great-great-great-great-grandniece of Chief Seattle. More info in our listing. (4705 W. Marginal Way SW)

NATURE, AFTER SCHOOL: Explore Camp Long with naturalist Stewart Wechsler, 3:30-4:30 pm, reservations suggested – details on his website. (5200 35th SW)

PITCH IN AT THE COMMUNITY ORCHARD: 5-7 pm Thursdays, you’re invited to tour and help out at the Community Orchard of West Seattle on the north side of the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus, as explained here. (6000 16th SW)

GOOD EVENING, STARSHINE: Checked out the acclaimed production of “Hair” at ArtsWest (WSB sponsor) yet? 7:30 pm is your next chance; info here. (4711 California SW)

LIVE MUSIC: Tonight’s highlights include rockabilly at Salty’s (WSB sponsor), world/funk/acoustic/soul at Skylark Café and Club. (Are your entertainment venue’s listings in our calendar? No? Listings are free – just send the info to editor@westseattleblog.com at least a week in advance – thank you!)

(Can you pick out our peninsula in this pic? Sunset from the sky, by Bill Schrier, shared via Flickr)
Happy Wednesday! The sun’s supposed to be back later. Meantime, your calendar highlights for today/tonight:

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: Everybody loves a story, especially the littlest among us. Bring yours! 10:30 am at West Seattle (Admiral) Branch Library. (2306 42nd SW)

TACOS FOR BASKETBALL: 5-9 pm, it’s an all-you-can-eat taco-bar benefit for West Seattle High School‘s basketball program at Pecado Bueno in The Junction – details here.

STEPS AT STEVENS, SECOND COMMUNITY DESIGN WORKSHOP: Tonight, see three potential design concepts for the proposal to create a new, safer pedestrian path into West Seattle High School from California SW. The community-proposed project now has its own website; if you missed the first community design workshop, here’s the presentation from that meeting, including potential inspiration for the steps and art elements. 5-7 pm at WSHS. (3000 California SW)

AFTER THAT … WSHS PTSA MEETS: Right after the Steps at Stevens workshop, it’s the final West Seattle High School PTSA meeting of this school year, 7 pm. (3000 California SW)

SEATTLE PARK DISTRICT? BRING YOUR QUESTIONS: Tonight, the Delridge Neighborhoods District Council focuses on something you’ll vote on in August – whether to create a Seattle Park District as a permanent way to raise more money for city parks, instead of another fixed-term levy. From DNDC chair Mat McBride:

Continuing our civic engagement series, we are hosting Councilmember Jean Godden, chair of the Parks Committee. She will discuss parks, and how the MPD factors at the City Council level. We also have presenters for the Yes and No campaigns relating to the MPD. Time is allotted for each speaker to answer questions from the community. This is an important conversation, and possibly the best chance for folks to hear from all sides of this big decision in one forum. All are invited and welcome.

Full agenda here. DNDC meets at 7 pm at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

LOOK! UP THERE! Tonight – assuming the sky really does clear – you’ll see the last quarter moon, according to Alice Enevoldsen‘s most-recent edition of Skies Over West Seattle.

WHAT NEXT? You don’t have to wait until tomorrow to see what’s happening tomorrow.

Thanks to Lise for sharing husband Brian‘s photo of an eagle and heron on Alki over the weekend. Lise says the eagle “promptly made a U-turn and attacked the heron. No animals were harmed, they flew off their separate ways. What a sight!” Now, some of the sights and sounds on the schedule for today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

‘SALUTE TO VETERANS’ LUNCHEON: 11:45 am at the Senior Center of West Seattle, you’re invited to lunch, and to hear from Col. Kevin McMahan of the Washington National Guard. Lunch is free for veterans, suggested $3 donation for others, call ASAP to RSVP – info’s in our calendar listing. (California/Oregon)

‘PRINCESS ANGELINE’: 1 pm at the Duwamish Longhouse, free screening of the film about Chief Seattle‘s daughter; details in our calendar listing. (4705 W. Marginal Way SW)

PATHFINDER PLAYGROUND PROJECT – YOUR PRESENCE COUNTS! The more the merrier at tonight’s 5:30-7 pm meeting about the ongoing Pathfinder K-8 playground project; be there not only to share your thoughts about design, but because participation is counted as volunteer hours matching part of the grant that’s involved. Easy and fun. Details in our calendar listing. (1901 SW Genesee)

HIGH-SCHOOL FAIR: Tonight’s the night that Westside School (WSB sponsor) hosts its first High School Fair, 6-8 pm, and all West Seattle families are welcome. Almost 20 schools are expected to participate; details in our calendar listing. (7740 34th SW)

HELP SHAPE SAFER WAYS TO GET TO SCHOOL: The SDOT School Road Safety Plan is in the works; your help shaping it is vital. 6-7:30 pm, join a workshop at Southwest Branch Library; details in our calendar listing. (35th/Henderson)

WEST SEATTLE CRIME PREVENTION COUNCIL: No featured guest tonight, so this meeting of the WSCPC is all about your chance to hear about crime trends and ask local police leadership about neighborhood concerns. 7 pm, Southwest Precinct meeting room. (Webster/Delridge)

SINGER-SONGWRITER SHOWCASE: 7-10 pm at The Cask in The Admiral District, including “surprise guests.” (2350 California SW)

…AND MORE NIGHTLIFE: Jazz, blues, karaoke, guitar, trivia – you’ll also find listings for tonight for all of the above (and more) on our calendar!

Have a terrific Tuesday.

Thanks to Trileigh Tucker for sharing two photos (see the one below, next to a somewhat related event listing!) of a baby dark-eyed junco requesting, and receiving, food from Dad. Watch out for baby wildlife in the park and elsewhere this time of year! And now – a few things from the calendar for today/tonight:

DEVELOPMENT ISSUES @ CITY HALL: Two items in which West Seattle neighborhood advocates have been active – during its regular 2 pm meeting, the City Council will consider amending and voting on new rules for “small-lot” development, as the Benchview neighborhood pointed out over the weekend. Documents are linked on the agenda (item #2). The meeting will start with a public-comment period for that and/or anything else on the agenda. Then at 5:30 pm, also at City Hall, it’s the official public hearing on rules regarding so-called “microhousing” (small apartments gathered around shared space that usually includes a communal kitchen); here’s our most-recent preview; here’s the official notice, which includes information on how to comment if you can’t go to tonight’s hearing. (600 4th Avenue)

LOU WHITTAKER AT WSHS: The renowned mountaineer speaks at the West Seattle High School Theater at 6:30 pm, benefiting the Southwest Seattle Historical Society. Details in our calendar listing. (3000 California SW)

CELEBRATING STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT: The community is invited to help Lodge 152 congratulate local students for a job well done:

Alki Masonic Lodge’s #152 annual School Awards Presentation will take place (tonight) at Alki Masonic Center, 4036 40th Ave SW. Each year, the Masons present awards to outstanding high school juniors from West Seattle High School, and Chief Sealth International High School. This year an additional Scholarship will be presented to one outstanding senior from last years recipients. The awards ceremony begins promptly at 7:00 pm in the main lodge room, and will be followed by light refreshments in the banquet hall.

(40th/Edmunds)

(2nd of 2 photos by Trileigh Tucker)
NATURE EDUCATION: Announced as being for “families, educators and anyone working with young children,” the West Seattle Preschool Association and Vashon Wilderness Program offer “a fun evening in nature” at Camp Long‘s Pollywog Pond tonight, 7-9 pm, free but you’re asked to register here: “Connecting young people with nature has become essential as humans are increasingly disconnecting with the natural world. Join Vashon Wilderness Program’s Executive Director for a lively interactive presentation on nature education for the young child and learn the essential Keys to Deep Nature Connection Mentoring that stimulate learning, health and vitality. This program combines lecture and experiential learning, and a portion of it will take place outside. Please come dressed for the weather and prepared to move.” (5200 35th SW)

You know summer’s almost here when the list of calendar highlights gets this long!

WEST SEATTLE 5K: Shortly after 9, the fundraising run organized again this year by the West Seattle High School PTSA heads east from the Alki Bathhouse to Duwamish Head and back, with Alki Avenue SW closed until about 11 am as a result. If you see this before 9, you can still sign up (by Alki Bathhouse) and run or walk!

FARMERS’ MARKET: Every Sunday all year long, you’ll find fresh local food and beverages at the West Seattle Farmers’ Market, 10 am-2 pm. (44th/Alaska)

SUMMER STREETS ON ALKI: Right after the West Seattle 5K, starting at 11 am, it’s a day full of fun in the street, with Alki SW closed between 56th and 63rd – walking, biking, scooting, just hanging out. The biggest activity of the day is the Alki Beach Creeps‘ second annual Bicycle/Costume Parade, starting from the west end of the festival zone – 63rd/Alki – at 1 pm. On-scene coverage coming up!

HUMAN TRAFFICKING – YES, IT HAPPENS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD: What you don’t know about human trafficking can hurt you (and its victims). It’s the signature issue right now for the West Seattle Democratic Women, who are facilitating a presentation at 11:30 am at Fauntleroy Church – details in our calendar listing. (9140 California SW)

FRIENDS OF MORGAN JUNCTION PARKS WORK PARTY: Noon-3 pm, at the triangle parklet next to West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor), join Friends of Morgan Junction Parks for spring cleanup/arborizing – details here. (Fauntleroy/Morgan, just east of California)

ZUMBATHON BENEFITING TRANSITIONAL RESOURCES: Spend part of your afternoon dancing for a good cause – Transitional Resources, which helps people living with mental illness. 1-3 pm at the West Seattle Christian Church Activity Center in The Junction; here’s our preview. (4400 42nd SW)

WEST SEATTLE HI-YU TEA/CORONATION: Who will reign as Senior Court Queen or King over this year’s Hi-Yu events? Today’s the day we’ll find out, with the coronation happening during the Hi-Yu Tea/Silent Auction fundraiser at The Hall at Fauntleroy, 2-5 pm; details here. (9140 California SW)

CLOTHING SWAP TO BENEFIT EARLY DAYS: The support group for new parents is the beneficiary of tonight’s Ladies’ Clothing Swap at Chaco Canyon Organic Café in The Triangle, 6-8 pm – details here. (38th/Alaska)