Thanks to Jana for sharing the photo. She writes, “Really disappointing. Walking on Alki this morning. Garbage, beer cans and liquor bottles. One day of sun brings out the best and worst in us.” It’s not the Parks Department‘s job to be picking up after people, but this does remind us it’s time for a check on when their crews change schedules for the spring season. We’ll add whatever we find out. And if you’re going to the beach – take a trash bag in case the cans get maxed out – pack your trash out if you can, or close the bag and leave it by the nearest receptacle.

We’re heading into what might be the warmest day so far this year – but it’ll be a while before the majestic Olympics lose their winter caps. Thanks to James Bratsanos for the photo! Highlights from today’s lineup on the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

FREE CO-WORKING: Check out the new home of West Seattle’s only co-working space, WS Office Junction (WSB sponsor), today – free co-working from 9:30 am to 5 pm: Bring your laptop and lunch! (6040 B California SW)

‘JOURNEYS THROUGH MUSLIM LANDS’ OPENS: New exhibit at South Seattle College (WSB sponsor)’s art gallery, which is open today 10 am-4 pm – read about it in our calendar listing. The gallery is in Brockey Center on the south end of campus. (6000 16th SW)

VOLUNTEER WITH THE WHALE TRAIL: The West Seattle-founded organization is recruiting new volunteers, as its educational mission extends further along the West Coast “Whale Trail.” Tonight, find out how you can help by checking out a volunteer meeting at the West Seattle (Admiral) Branch Library, 6:30 pm (the meeting is for prospective AND current volunteers). You’re asked to RSVP by e-mailing info@thewhaletrail.org. (2306 42nd SW)

FREE GARDENING WORKSHOP: “Gardening 101 for everyone!” as described here. Part of the “Family Matters’ series at Fauntleroy Church – all welcome to the workshop in the Fellowship Hall. (9130 California SW)

HI-YU MEETING: 7 pm at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, West Seattle Hi-Yu needs you! From secretary Kristin Botuchis:

Meet the two young ladies and one young man who are candidates for the 2014 Senior Court and hear about our upcoming events, including:

May 3 Community Breakfast and Talent Show
May 18 Annual Spring Tea, Auction, and Coronation

We have many volunteer opportunities available including a strip-the-float party coming up April 12th, so even if you cannot make the meeting please let us know if you can help.

Contact info is at westseattlehiyu.com. (42nd/Hanford)

And a friendly reminder:

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE DAY REGISTRATION CONTINUES: Be part of our region’s biggest Community Garage Sale Day (which we have coordinated since its 4th year – this is now year 10!) by selling and/or shopping on Saturday, May 10th! If you’re going to be a seller, registration is open now – please sign up ASAP via the link you’ll find here.

(No such thing as too many eagle photos. Thanks to Ryan O’Keven for this view of two!)
Happy Saturday! From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, some of what’s up now through nighttime:

BIRD WALK IN LINCOLN PARK … with Audubon. Starts at 8 am; details in our listing. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

FOOD DRIVE: The Kiwanis ONE food drive is today – watch for Kiwanians, Key Club members, and Scouts at local grocery stores, as previewed here, 9 am-3 pm.

SEATTLE NEIGHBORHOOD SUMMIT: Not IN West Seattle, but EVERYONE is invited to the Neighborhood Summit happening 9 am-1 pm today at the Seattle Center Exhibition Hall downtown; here’s the agenda. We’ll see you there for at least part of it – text us if you’re going! 206-293-6302. (3rd/Mercer)

ARBOR HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY CLEANUP: 9 am-noon at the school:

It is that time of year again to give the face of the school grounds at Arbor Heights a little love. This is a great time to gather for a working playdate, have some coffee and baked goods, and work together to clean the grounds, entry, walkways, flowerbeds, etc. as we enjoy our last few months before construction begins. Bring your gardening gloves and tools or use what’s provided and come and join us!

(37th SW/SW 104th)

FRIENDS OF LINCOLN PARK … would love to have you help them rescue part of the park from invasive plants/weeds, starting at 9 am. Details here. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

FAIRMOUNT RAVINE IVY-FIGHTING FOLLOWUP: Starting at 9 am, Fairmount Ravine needs your help to get free of some of the tree-choking ivy in this beautiful ravine that also frames a road used by many to get between Admiral and Alki. Details in our preview. (Fairmount/Forest)

SANISLO BOOK SALE: 10 am-2 pm, the big annual book sale benefiting the 4th grade camping trip at Sanislo Elementary – a major outdoor-educational opportunity. Books for all ages will be on sale. (1812 SW Myrtle)

TALK WITH YOUR SCHOOL BOARD REP: West Seattle’s school-board rep Marty McLaren invites anyone who wants to talk with her about Seattle Public Schools issues to come to the common house of Puget Ridge Cohousing 10 am-noon today. (7020 18th SW)

INTERNATIONAL TABLETOP GAMES DAY, #1: Uptown Espresso in Delridge is now also a “Gameporium “and is celebrating ITGD 10 am-midnight, with game-playing and game-learning. (Delridge/Andover)

WEST SEATTLE RUNNER’S 4TH ANNIVERSARY SALE & DISCOUNT WEST SEATTLE 5K REGISTRATION: Come help West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor) celebrate its 4th anniversary with a big sale and other special events, including – today only – one last chance for the discount registration price for the May 18th West Seattle 5K (benefiting and organized by the WSHS PTSA). More in our calendar listing. (California/Charlestown)

VOLUNTEER AT THE LOG HOUSE MUSEUM: The next orientation for prospective volunteers at the home of West Seattle’s history is today, 11 am-1 pm, and there’s lots for you to help with! See for yourself, here. (61st/Stevens)

INTERNATIONAL TABLETOP GAMES DAY, #2: Meeples Games isn’t open yet but will be presenting a free, public event in honor of the occasion, at Alki Bathhouse. Details here. 1-5 pm. (61st/Alki)

WEST SEATTLE HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL SPAGHETTI DINNER/AUCTION: The night after the team’s win over Rainier Beach:

… you can support them at a spaghetti dinner tonight, 5-8 pm at West Side Presbyterian Church, $10 donation per person. Photo by Greg Slader, above, shows Spencer Elder pitching in Friday’s game. (3601 California SW)

HOLY FAMILY SCHOOL DINNER/AUCTION: 5-9 pm, you’re invited to help Holy Family Bilingual Catholic School celebrate this special night – details in our calendar listing. (20th/Roxbury)

WEST SEATTLE HIGH SCHOOL ‘TASTE OF THE ARTS’: Visual, performing, and culinary arts combine for this unique benefit – here’s our preview. 6-10 pm, starting at St. John’s Episcopal Church and moving next door to the WSHS Theater. (California/Hanford/Stevens)

‘TAKING ROOT’: For Earth Month, West Seattle Meaningful Movies presents the story of Wangari Maathai (who came to West Seattle several years ago to plant trees with students). Neighborhood House’s High Point Center – come meet your neighbors at 6:30, film at 7. Details here. (6900 Sylvan Way)

‘A … MY NAME IS ALICE’: Another performance tonight at 7:30 pm for Twelfth Night Productions‘ show at Kenyon Hall; details here. (7904 35th SW)

This is just part of the list – check out the calendar for more, including music tonight.

We tweeted that photo from the Westside Awards breakfast (WSB coverage here) on Thursday morning and can’t resist using it here too. Now, on to some of what’s up today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you’ll find the full list of possibilities):

WEST SEATTLE RUNNER’S 4TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION: Today through Sunday, there’s a sale and all sorts of special events at West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor), celebrating its 4th anniversary. Find out more in our calendar listing. (California/Charlestown)

BIN 41’S 4TH ANNIVERSARY: 6 pm tonight at Bin 41 in The Junction:

It’s the year of the 4’s … celebrating 4 years on 4/4! Friday marks our annual tasting celebration, featuring our friend and the local West Seattle winemaker that kicked us off back in 2010, Darby English. Darby will be sharing a variety of new releases from the winery including a single vineyard Marsanne, the Dark Side, Mourvedre, the Swagger and more. We’ll have some special snacks to nibble on to celebrate 4 great years of sharing great wine with each of you here in the hood. We look forward to seeing you at the tasting!

(4707 California SW)

JUDY BENTLEY AT WORDS, WRITERS, WEST SEATTLE: The Southwest Seattle Historical Society-co-presented series of West Seattle author appearances at Barnes & Noble/Westwood Village continues 4-6 pm today with Judy Bentley – here’s her video invitation:

Full details on the SWHS website. (2800 SW Barton)

‘PETER PAN’: Arbor Heights Elementary invites you to come see the production – second and final night! 7 pm; details in this Facebook event. (3704 SW 102nd)

‘YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN’: 7:30 pm, the student production at West Seattle High School; details here. (3000 California SW)

‘A … MY NAME IS ALICE’: 7:30 pm, Twelfth Night Productions‘ show at Kenyon Hall; details here. (7904 35th SW)

‘MIDSUMMER/JERSEY’: 7:30 pm, Seattle Lutheran High School production at the school gym; details here. (4100 SW Genesee)

Thanks to Alia for sharing that snowcapped-Olympics scene. Not too much on the calendar for today/tonight, but if you are interested in development, growth, and planning, don’t miss the first item:

SOUTHWEST DISTRICT COUNCIL: 6:30 pm at the Senior Center of West Seattle, the SWDC – reps from community councils and other major organizations around western West Seattle – meets. Here’s the agenda:

6:30 p.m. Welcome and Introductions, Approve Previous Meeting Summary, & Announcements – Sharonn Meeks & Vlad Oustimovitch

6:40 p.m. Seattle 2035 – Patrice Carroll and Nicolas Welch, Department of Planning and Development

7:15 p.m. SWDC Land Use Committee – All

7:30 p.m. CNC Update – Chas Redmond

7:40 p.m. Other SWDC business

• California Avenue SW Historic and Notable Structure Survey – Chas Redmond

• Neighborhood Park and Street Fund

• Neighborhood Matching Fund: recruitment of Large Project CRT and DCRT representatives and timeline

• Neighborhood Summit, Saturday, April 5, 9 am to 1 pm, Seattle Center, Exhibition Hall

• Topics for upcoming SWDC meetings

8:00 p.m. Adjourn

(California/Alaska)

LIVE MUSIC: Jim Page performs at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7 pm. (5612 California SW)

COMEDY COMPETITION: First-ever comedy competition at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), which has been hosting comedy showcases in recent months. Round 1 starts at 8 pm! (6451 California SW)

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE DAY REGISTRATION CONTINUES: More than 25 sales signed up already, and today is only the second full day of 2014 registration! Be part of the 10th annual West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day – Saturday, May 10th, 9 am-3 pm – by going here to sign up YOUR sale. (If you don’t have a place for a sale of your own, check out the group site at Hotwire Online Coffeehouse [WSB sponsor] – e-mail info@hotwirecoffee.com)

(Fawn lilies in North Delridge, by Flickr member “old desolate,” via WSB Flickr pool)
Spring sunshine, early flowers … Tuesday dawns with sunshine. And a busy day/night ahead, as you’ll see in our highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

MATH MATERIALS REVIEW: Today through April 25th, potential math-curriculum materials for Seattle Public Schools are available for review at West Seattle Elementary; details here.

AFTER-SCHOOL NATURE HIKES: 3:15 pm at Lincoln Park with local naturalist Stewart Wechsler – see his site for registration/donation information. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

WESTWOOD-ROXHILL-ARBOR HEIGHTS COMMUNITY COUNCIL: Monthly WWRHAH meeting at 6:15 pm at Southwest Library. Here are the agenda toplines:

6:15-6:20: Introductions & Community News; Delridge Grocery Co-Op, Neighborhood Summit; Seattle Center – April 5th 9:00 am-1:00 pm; Seattle 2035 at Youngstown April 9th 6:00-9:00 pm

6:25-6:30: Upcoming Elections – Who is Running? Are you?

6:30-7:00: Committee & Neighborhood Council Updates

7:00-7:10: Seattle Parks Department: Carol Baker

7:10-7:40: Seattle Police Department: Captain Steve Wilske; Welcome to West Seattle, Introductions and Q&A

All welcome. (35th/Henderson)

FREE PARENTING TALK: With Renée Metty at The Cove School; child care available with advance signup – details in our calendar listing. 6:30 pm. (3430 California SW)

WEST SEATTLE BIKE CONNECTIONS: Monthly meeting at 6:30 pm, HomeStreet Bank in The Junction. (4022 SW Alaska)

WEST SEATTLE QUILTERS: 7 pm, one of the twice-monthly meetings of this group at Senior Center of West Seattle; details in our calendar listing. (California/Oregon)

REGISTER TODAY FOR THURSDAY’S WESTSIDE AWARDS BREAKFAST! You don’t have to be a member of the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce to attend the Westside Awards breakfast this Thursday (April 3rd) and honor the stellar list of honorees just announced. 7:30 am Thursday at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor) – here’s where to go to sign up.

Two incredible views of a male Anna’s Hummingbird this morning, courtesy of Alki photographer David Hutchinson – the other one is below today’s calendar highlights:

TODDLER GYM: 10 am-1 pm at Hiawatha Community Center, Mondays & Thursdays – details here. (2700 California SW)

SPS SUPERINTENDENT’S TOWN HALL: Want to hear about the road ahead for Seattle Public Schools? And/or say something about it? Superintendent José Banda will be at Roxhill Elementary 6:30-8:30 pm tonight for the last of five “town hall” meetings about the district’s Strategic Plan. (30th/Roxbury)

WS4OSO BENEFIT NIA CLASS: At The Center for Movement & Healing, there’s a Dance and Donate Nia class tonight at 6:30 pm to benefit mudslide relief as part of WS4OSO; the center is located above the offices of WSB sponsor Swedish Automotive. (7901 35th SW)

And now, as promised, David Hutchinson’s other view of that resplendent hummingbird:

By the way, you can see what else is on the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar by going here.

Thanks to Debbie Runke for the great view of a bald eagle in Arbor Heights! Looking out over the calendar for today, we see these five highlights:

WS4OSO – MORE THAN 40 WAYS TO HELP: The West Seattle-wide benefit for mudslide survivors/victims in Snohomish County is on, with more than 40 businesses where you can shop, dine, and/or drink to be part of the fundraiser. Find the newest list on the official Facebook page – facebook.com/ws4oso – and if you don’t use Facebook, we included the list as of last night in this WSB update.

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm, the weekly market is on, with more vendors returning this week as we get deeper into spring. (44th/Alaska)

WEST SEATTLE ULTIMATE FAMILY FRISBEE: Organizers of this longrunning informal Sunday morning event say it’s on for today, 11 am, in High Point. You can check the WSUFF FB page weekly for updates. (31st/Myrtle)

DELRIDGE GROCERY ‘VOLUNTEER SUNDAY’: Sundays, noon-1 pm, you can meet a rep for the in-the-works cooperative grocery store, “to ask questions and/or offer your time to help out”:

*Where: * The Daily Dose Espresso, 5214 Delridge Way SW
*When:* Sundays, 12 noon to 1 pm
*Who: *Anyone who wants to learn more or has a little time to share info with your neighbors. People who want to help with event planning, outreach, co-op development, sharing info about healthy living, food justice activists, People who love West Seattle!

LIVE MUSIC AT C & P: Singer-songwriters Greg Spence Wolf and Steve Norris perform live at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 3-5 pm. (5612 California SW)

Highlighting the indoor events on this soggy Saturday:

More toys! #deals pic.twitter.com/POHcVrdpOA

— West Sea Kids Sale (@WestSeaKidsSale) March 29, 2014

SALE BENEFITING CO-OP PRESCHOOLS: Today’s the day for the big consignment sale of kid stuff, benefiting South Seattle Community College Cooperative Preschools, under way now until 1 pm, with more than 100 consigners participating, at the VFW Hall in The Triangle. If you haven’t already, check the official Facebook page for advance info. There are also preview photos (like the one above) on Twitter at @westseakidssale. $1 donation requested for admission. Across SW Alaska, Mountain to Sound Outfitters promises a free barbecue for shoppers starting at noon – hot dogs, turkey dogs, veggie dogs. (3601 SW Alaska)

GIRL SCOUTS’ ROLLER-SKATING PARTY: Local Scouts are invited to celebrate this year’s successful cookie-selling season at a skating party, 5-7 pm at Southgate Roller Rink in White Center. (9646 17th SW)

WS4OSO FUNDRAISING DINNER @ WS EAGLES: The West Seattle Eagles host a fundraising dinner to help slide survivors, open to the public, 5:30-7 pm: “Chicken Fried Steak, mashed potatoes, corn, and dessert for $9.” Check the WS4OSO page for the latest on what else is happening in West Seattle this weekend to help the slide zone. (4426 California SW)

ST. BALDRICK’S – HELP FIGHT CHILDHOOD CANCER: Even if you’re not signing up to get YOUR head shaved in support of childhood-cancer patients, you’re invited to be there and cheer on the people who are raising money for the cause by doing it. Donation opportunities, too. Emily Austin is the organizer and you’ll find her and the rest of the event at Mind Unwind, 6-8 pm. (2206 California SW)

MUSICA SACRA CHAMBER CHORALE: 7:30 pm concert at Holy Rosary tonight, “From Darkness Comes Light.” Details here, and note the free pre-concert lecture at 6:30 pm. (42nd/Genesee)

OLIO PLAYERS: ““Without A Clue or, Who Whacked Willamina Willagillespie from Walla Walla Washington” – onstage fun with The Olio Players at WSUU, details here. 7:30 pm curtain time. (7141 California SW)

Much more on the calendar – browse events for today/tonight and beyond.

Thanks to Myrtle for the Thursday afternoon view of clouds and sun, looking eastward from SW Dakota. Here in the midst of a thoroughly gray Friday morning, we look ahead to the rest of the day, via highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

WEST SEATTLE GARDEN CLUB: Under way now until 2 pm at Daystar Retirement Village. The club says you’re welcome to drop in for all or part of the meeting, which concludes with a 1 pm presentation about container gardening. More details in our listing. (2615 SW Barton)

ZARNI AT SALTY’S: Singer/songwriter Zarni De Wet performs at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor), 5:30-8:30 pm. (1936 Harbor SW)

AUTHOR READING: Christopher Anderson reads from, signs, and sells his new book titled “Alki“ – read more about it here – tonight at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7 pm. (5612 California SW)

JUNCTION DEVELOPMENT MEETING: As reported here on Thursday, a new community group is organizing to oppose plans for a 40-apartment building at 4139 41st SW and it’s meeting at 7 pm tonight at the Holy Rosary School Hall. (4142 42nd SW)

GRIEVES, LIVE AT EASY STREET: 7 pm at Easy Street Records, Seattle rapper Grieves performs live in-store. (California/Alaska)

‘THE PASSION ACCORDING TO ST. LUKE’: Live performance by Leonardo Defilippis at Our Lady of Guadalupe; details in our calendar listing. 7 pm. (35th/Myrtle)

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRAS: 7:30 pm, Kim Roy conducts WSCO in a “Concert of Classics.” Free (donations appreciated), Chief Sealth International High School Auditorium. (2600 SW Thistle)

VIDEO/YOGA: Yoga and video art, side by side, Center Studio (WSB sponsor), 7:30-9 pm – read about it in our calendar listing. (9611 16th SW)

Lots more on the calendar!

Thanks to James Bratsanos for that view of a state ferry (update: the new Tokitae, on sea trials!) in the mist off Blake Island this morning. Looking ahead to tonight – five options between 6 pm and 11 pm, from here to the other side of the Duwamish, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

SPRING FLING IN THE JUNCTION: 6-9:30 pm, special shopping event in The Junction, with six businesses participating, including longtime WSB sponsor Click! Design That Fits. Details in our preview from earlier this week.

SOUTH PARK BRIDGE: 6 pm at Napoli Pizzeria, come see and hear the latest on the new bridge, now projected to open this summer, including a photo slideshow. Details toward the bottom of the county’s latest construction update. (8600 14th Avenue S.)

WHALE TRAIL: Tonight – what you DON’T know about whales, including how they evolved, in the latest talk presented by The Whale Trail at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7 pm. (5612 California SW)

DELRIDGE NIGHT OUT: 7-11 pm, music at Skylark Café and Club to benefit the Delridge Grocery Cooperative. Details here. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

DUWAMISH ROWING CLUB FUNDRAISER: Not happening IN West Seattle, but the rowing club serves West Seattle as well as South Park and Georgetown, and is inviting you to a movie-watching benefit tonight, 7 pm at Georgetown Stables – “Blondie Goes to College” – also food, beverages, a drawing, and more fun. Info in our calendar listing. (980 South Nebraska)

(Editor’s note – turns out this is FRIDAY night!) VAUDEVILLE! Sourdough Slim’s Wild & Woolly Vaudeville Show with Eric Simmons, 7:30 pm at Kenyon Hall. Details in our calendar preview. (7904 35th SW)

More on our calendar!

World Water Week continues at Chief Sealth International High School – teacher Noah Zeichner shares that photo from an art project that is part of today’s student conference on plastic pollution, this year’s theme (“Don’t Throw the World Away”). No public events today, but what the students are learning will certainly reverberate in our community in the years ahead.

Meantime, some of what’s happening elsewhere in West Seattle today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

HIGH POINT SUMMER RESOURCE FAIR: Early-release day at school is the occasion for this 2-4 pm event with info on options for what youth can do this summer. Details in our calendar listing. At Neighborhood House’s High Point Center. (6400 Sylvan Way)

SUPERSUCKERS @ EASY STREET: 6 pm, live in-store performance at Easy Street Records by Seattle’s own Supersuckers. (California/Alaska)

LASER OPEN HOUSE: Well Medical Arts (WSB sponsor) invites you to visit for an open house about SmartSkin (CO2) Laser rejuvenation. 6-8 pm. (9025 35th SW)

HIGHLAND PARK ACTION COMMITTEE: Tonight’s agenda – 7 pm meeting after 6:30 pm potluck – shared by co-chair Carolyn Stauffer:

*Homestead Community Land Trust:* We’ve been getting inquiries about properties for sale around the neighborhood with “Homestead” signs, so we’ve invited a guest speaker from Homestead Community Land Trust to come tell us what they do (www.homesteadclt.org).

*Neighborhood Park and Street Fund:* overview the projects submitted for grants in our district

*Highland Park Playground:* A Seattle Parks representative will be present to update us on the schedule for the Opportunity Fund Grant awarded to the park to create better access from 10th Ave and Thistle Street.

*HPIC Courtyard*: come hear and see what’s going on…. and help us name the new space!

We’ll also have some folks speaking about the *Tree Ambassador Program*, and the *Green Home Tour* coming up in April.

The meeting is at Highland Park Improvement Club. (12th/Holden)

POETRY & STORYTELLING: The monthly event is back at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm – details in our calendar listing. (5612 California SW)

We might not see the sun again for a few days, so we’re glad to be able to share David Hutchinson‘s photo from one of last week’s spectacular sunsets. Five highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

CHRIS JORDAN @ SEALTH’S WORLD WATER WEEK: Plastic pollution is the focus of this year’s World Water Week events at Chief Sealth International High School – as previewed here – and tonight, you are invited to come to campus for a resource fair 6-7 pm and keynoter Chris Jordan‘s presentation about “The Plight of the Albatross,” at 7 pm – free. (2600 SW Thistle)

‘PARENTS, TEENS, AND SEX: THE TALK, PART 2’: 6 pm tonight at Southwest Branch Library, health educator Katie Acker from the Neighborcare school-based health centers at two local high schools will present information on “the state of sexual health and activity among teens,” as well as strategies for parents to use in “initiating and continuing ‘the talk’,” while reiterating “the critical role parents play in teens’ lives, decisionmaking, and health-seeking behaviors.” (35th/Henderson)

WHAT HAPPENS TO STOLEN PROPERTY? Bring your questions to the West Seattle Block Watch Captains’ Network meeting tonight and find out from a Seattle Police detective who works on pawn-shop detail. New precinct commander Capt. Steve Wilske also is expected to be in attendance. 6:30 pm, Southwest Precinct. (Delridge/Webster)

‘BLUES TO DO’: 8 pm at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), tonight’s Blues To Do extravaganza features the Seth Freeman All-Star Session with Chris Leighton and Scott E. Lind. (6451 California SW)

BABY KETTEN KARAOKE: A unique take on karaoke, 9 pm at Skylark Café and Club. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

>

Thanks to Chris Frankovich for sharing his photo of an eagle in Friday night’s sunset. The beautiful view of our biggest waterway – and its wildlife – brings us to the start of today’s short list from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

WORLD WATER WEEK: Today marks the start of the fourth annual “ideas festival” at Chief Sealth International High School – as previewed here – focusing this year on plastic pollution. The big public community event is tomorrow night’s keynote by Chris Jordan.

COUNCIL VOTE ON PARK EXPANSION: Last week, as reported here, a City Council committee OK’d the purchase of land to expand Dakota Place Park northward. The final vote is on today’s 2 pm council agenda. The meeting starts with public comment, if you have anything to say (here’s the agenda); if you want to watch from afar, it’ll be live via cablecast and web stream via Seattle Channel.

FAMILY STORY TIME: 6:30 pm at the High Point Branch Library; details here. (35th/Raymond)

TRIVIA/PUB QUIZ: Three venues are on our calendar with trivia/pub quiz events on Monday nights – Christo’s at 7, OutWest at 7:30, Shadowland at 8.

ONE WEEK UNTIL WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE DAY REGISTRATION: Signups start next Monday (March 31st) for the 10th annual West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day, coming up Saturday, May 10th, hundreds of sales big and small around the peninsula, coordinated by us here at WSB. Watch here and on the official WSCGSD website!

Thanks to James Bratsanos for the photos of Friday’s sunrise and sunset that we’ve sprinkled through this list of highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar! Great Saturday ahead too, though we start with a traffic-alert reminder:

VIADUCT/HIGHWAY 99 CLOSURE: If you’re heading out of West Seattle, don’t forget that Highway 99 is closed today, for projects including the followup inspection of the Alaskan Way Viaduct and restriping/realignment of the almost-complete Spokane Street Overcrossing rebuild. The closure is scheduled to continue until 7 pm; if it ends earlier, we’ll publish an update here, as well as via WSB Twitter and WSB Facebook.

SCOUTING FOR FOOD: If you received a doorhanger last weekend about this door-to-door collection drive by local Cub and Boy Scout troops (including this one), don’t forget to put out your bag of food. If you are missed or if you didn’t get one, you can still pitch in by taking food donations to the grassy triangle at 44th/Hill, where Pack 793 plans to collect 9 am-11 am.

WHITE CENTER 5K: If you’re not signed up for this benefit run, you can still register on site – signups at 8 am, run at 9 am, walk at 9:10 am, White Center Heights Park. Kids under 10 free. More on our partner site White Center Now. (7th SW/SW 102nd)

GARAGE/YARD SALES: The season has started – check out the listings in the WSB Forums. (And remember it’s only 7 weeks until West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day on May 10th; registration starts here on March 31st.)

(added) WEST SEATTLE LITTLE LEAGUE JAMBOREE: Thanks to Jason for the late-breaking reminder – it’s Jamboree day for West Seattle Little League, and games are under way 9 am-7 pm at Bar-S Fields. (64th/Admiral)

SEAFAIR COMMODORES BOWLATHON: 9:30 am-noon at West Seattle Bowl, it’s the annual bowling benefit for the Seafair Foundation Scholarship Program for Women, courtesy of the Seafair Commodores, as previewed here. (39th/Oregon)

HELP ‘DE-PAVE’ IN HIGHLAND PARK: 10 am until “however long it takes,” you’re invited to come help break up some of the pavement outside Highland Park Improvement Club as part of its greening project. Here’s our Thursday preview. (12th/Holden)

THE SERVICE BOARD GEAR SALE: 10 am-1 pm, The Service Board is selling winter gear at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, where tSB is based – details here. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

FRIENDSHOP POP-UP: At the West Seattle (Admiral) Branch Library, noon-4 pm pop-up shop with Seattle Public Library items you would otherwise have to go downtown to get! (2306 42nd SW)

SHOREWOOD CHRISTIAN SCHOOL AUCTION: 4:30 pm, doors open for this gala – details in our calendar listing. (10300 28th SW)

FAUNTLEROY CHILDREN’S CENTER AUCTION: 5:30 pm, doors open at The Hall at Fauntleroy – details in our calendar listing. (9131 California SW)

DENNY-SEALTH BIG BAND DINNER DANCE: 6 pm tonight at the Chief Sealth International High School/Denny International Middle School Galleria, it’s dinner and dancing to benefit the schools’ music programs – as previewed here. Dance tickets are available at the door and some dinner tickets might still be available – go here for info on how to check. (2600 SW Thistle)

TRANSYLVANIAN GALA: The Partner Church Ministry of Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation and East Shore Unitarian Church of Bellevue has its annual fundraising gala at WSUU beginning at 6 pm tonight; details in our calendar listing. (7141 California SW)

HOLLOW EARTH RADIO BENEFIT AT KENYON HALL: Happening tonight:

We have an amazing lineup of local musicians including, West Seattle’s Peter Fedofsky (Curtains for You), Septimus (Wheedles Groove), Tummy, Portland’s Mufassa and Taft Aro Space. All bands will be introduced by local Soul Legend, Pat Wright. You don’t want to miss this!! In addition to these incredible bands, we are having a RAFFLE for some pretty spectacular prizes. A brand new Jay Turser Telecaster from Trading Musician, gift certificates from Silver Platters, Georgetown Records, Pegasus Books, and a turntable from Radar Hair And Records! The first 10 people to donate $8 at the door get a free raffle ticket! All proceeds benefit the volunteer only run radio station. An all Ages show. Suggested donation is $8. Music begins promptly at 8 pm.

(7904 35th SW)

BE A PUNK ROCKER AT THE FEEDBACK LOUNGE: Ramones tribute tonight, Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 9:30 pm. (6451 California SW)

And as always – MORE on our calendar!

(Photo by Don Brubeck via the WSB Flickr group)
Sunshine now, weekend on the way – what could be better? As we do most mornings, we’re taking a moment to look ahead at what’s happening today/tonight via the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (which has even more listings for today, tonight, and beyond):

SPA DAY AT WEST SIDE MOPS: 9:30-11:30 am, local businesses and service providers pamper the members of West Side MOPS for a blissful morning at West Side Presbyterian Church, the group’s regular meeting site. Details and participants in our calendar listing.

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: West Seattle High School students are raising money for a project to help fight hunger, and tonight they’re offering “Parents’ Night Out” babysitting to bring in some $. 5-10:30 pm – details in our preview, including how to check whether they’re all booked up or not. (3000 California SW)

FREE MOVIE NIGHT AT HPIC: Bring the family to Highland Park Improvement Club – 6:30 pm, doors open; 7 pm, movie time. No admission charge; concessions available for purchase; bring your own pillow/blanket and/or use an HPIC chair. Movie hint in our calendar listing. (12th/Holden)

RESTORATIVE YOGA: 6:30 pm with Milo Minnis at SoundYoga (WSB sponsor) – details here. (5639 California SW)

TONIGHT AT KENYON HALL: Kyleen Austin (guitar) and Andrew Emlen (cello) perform at the historic performance hall – details (including reservation info) in our calendar listing. 7:30 pm. (7904 35th SW)

That’s just a sampling of what’s on the calendar – follow the link and browse!

(Pileated woodpecker, photographed at Camp Long this week by Mark Wangerin)
Spring is here, as of about half an hour ago. Our highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar include two ways to celebrate:

CELEBRATE SPRING AT COMMUNITY ORCHARD OF WEST SEATTLE: An invitation for you, from Stu Hennessey:

Celebrate the 1st day of spring at the Community Orchard of West Seattle. Spring arrives at 9:46 Thursday morning, and Health and Harvest at the Community Orchard is from 5 pm to 7 pm. We will be demonstrating blueberry bush and fruit tree pruning. Healthy activities with a Harvest of spring tonic greens.

COWS is on the northeast side of the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus. (6000 16th SW)

PELVIC HEALTH AND AWARENESS CLASS: West Seattle/Highline Physical Therapy is offering this class to women for a nominal fee benefiting nonprofit Open Arms Perinatal. It’s advised for women who “want to improve bladder control, reduce back or pelvic pain, or get help in recovering from childbirth or abdominal surgery.” More details in our calendar listing; class starts 6:30 pm. (4700 42nd SW, Suite 510)

SUNSET WATCH WITH ALICE ENEVOLDSEN: For five years, NASA Solar System Ambassador Alice Enevoldsen has been leading fun, educational sunset-watch events on equinoxes and solstices at West Seattle’s Solstice Park. Since spring has just arrived, tonight is the vernal-equinox edition. Arrive around 6:45 to get some quality time with Alice, who usually demonstrates exactly how the equinox works, and leads Q/A. All ages welcome; toddler-friendly activities planned as part of it. (7400 Fauntleroy Way SW)

COMMUNITY MEETING FOR 24TH SW SUBDIVISION NEAR LONGFELLOW CREEK: Tonight is the community-requested meeting for the proposal to split one lot into eight in the 6500 block of 24th SW, first reported here in December and then again in January when neighbors pointed out flooding/drainage problems. City Department of Planning and Development reps will preside and take comments as part of their review of the subdivision proposal, envisioned as a precursor to building single-family homes on the lots. The meeting is at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center at 7 pm. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

‘MINOR DIFFERENCES’ SCREENING: The community’s invited to tonight’s screening of this award-winning documentary at Explorer West Middle School (WSB sponsor). From the EW website:

Explorer West’s Parent Community Network is hosting a screening of this poignant documentary about juvenile offenders in maximum security lock-up and their lives 18 years later. There will be a post-screening Q&A session with Explorer West parent and producer of Minor Differences, Caroline Cumming, and three of the men from the documentary. Last month, the film won “Best Documentary” at the Spokane International Film Festival.

The screening is at 7 pm at EW and will be followed by a Q/A. $5 tickets are available online, and at the door. (10015 28th SW)

(Monday morning moonset by Chris Frankovich)
What’s up? All this and more:

DINE OUT TO BENEFIT ALKI ELEMENTARY: Endolyne Joe’s (WSB sponsor) is donating part of its proceeds today to Alki Elementary. (9261 45th SW)

‘GET CIVIC’ WITH DELRIDGE NEIGHBORHOODS DISTRICT COUNCIL: Haven’t been to a community meeting lately? Q/A with City Councilmember Sally Clark, and presentations about grant applications for neighborhood street/park improvements, are two big reasons why. Chair Mat McBride presents other reasons in his personal invite to you to be there tonight and “get civic.” Meeting’s at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

SEATTLE CLASSIC GUITAR SOCIETY: Open mike at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7 pm. (5612 California SW)

‘THIRD’: Final week for ArtsWest‘s production of Wendy Wasserstein‘s play; curtain time, 7:30 pm. (4711 California SW)

COMEDY AT THE FEEDBACK: 8 pm, Emmett Montgomery headlines the next comedy night at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), hosted by West Seattle comic Mona Concepcion – details in our calendar listing. (6451 California SW)

EVEN MORE … happening, so go browse our calendar!

The migratory Rufous Hummingbirds are showing up just in time for spring – and Mark Wangerin got a good look at this one last Thursday. Quite the commute – they overwinter in the Southwest. You won’t have to go far at all to check out what’s on the calendar today/tonight.

FIRST, HIGHWAY 99 TRAFFIC ALERTS: If you’re traveling Highway 99 north of the West Seattle Bridge today, take note of lane/ramp closures near downtown all day, and the Battery Street Tunnel/Aurora closure this morning (7:30-11 am) for the St. Patrick’s Day Dash. All of that is detailed here.

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: New vendor today – Heavenly Honey, with raw honey. West Seattle’s own Sod House Bakery promises shamrock cookies. It’s almost spring, so you’ll find something new every week. 10 am-2 pm. (44th/Alaska)

CHINESE GARDEN’S SPRING OPEN HOUSE: Another sign of impending spring – an open house at the Seattle Chinese Garden!

Come see what’s blooming (SCG-provided photo above) and what else is new – free. Lots of info in our listing. North side of South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor) campus. (6000 16th SW)

WEST SEATTLE GEAR SWAP, DAY 2: 11 am-3 pm, Mountain to Sound Outfitters presents the swap just down the street at the American Legion Post 160 Hall – details on the M2SO site. (3618 SW Alaska)

HOW TO CREATE A DISASTER KIT ON A BUDGET: You know how important it is to be prepared – for anything. Just in case. Even though you hope you’ll never need to use your kit, bag, etc. If you’re not quite ready yet, go to the Southwest Branch Library 1:30-2 pm today for a free class on “how to create a disaster kit on a budget.” (35th/Henderson)

CELTIC SWELL DOG-COSTUME CONTEST: 2-4 pm, it’s the wearing of the green for your pup(s) at Celtic Swell Irish Pub/Restaurant on Alki, hosted by Tracey Conway, donations benefiting the Seattle Humane Society, part of the CS’s St. Patrick’s Weekend Festival. (2722 Alki SW)

MUSIC NORTHWEST: “Chamber Music from the Folk Side” is the theme for today’s 3 pm concert at Olympic Hall on the SSCC campus – find out more by checking out our calendar listing. (6000 16th SW)

SECURITY BREACH INFORMATION NIGHT: If you are concerned about the recent reports of fraud related to a security breach with the Archdiocese of Seattle, Holy Rosary is offering its school community an information night tonight with a credit expert, 6:30 pm – information on the school website. (42nd/Genesee)

MONA CONCEPCION IN BELLEVUE: Not IN West Seattle, but … WS stand-up comic Mona Concepcion is featured at 7:30 pm tonight in Dis/orient/ed Comedy, “the first-ever (mostly) all-female, all-Asian American stand-up comedy tour.” Until noon, tickets are available online – go here; they’ll also be on sale at the door. Parlor Live in Bellevue. (700 Bellevue Way NE, 3rd floor)

LAST DAY OF COOKIE SALES: Girl Scout Cookies fan? Last chance to get ’em! Here’s the list of who’s selling where, and when, 8 am-8 pm.

(Morning light along the Longfellow Creek Trail; photo by Flickr member “wsLaura,” via the WSB Flickr group)
Morning through late night, we have options for your West Seattle Saturday, from the calendar (where you’ll find even more):

FAIRMOUNT RAVINE CLEANUP: 8:30 am, meet just east of Hiawatha – to be part of the 22nd annual Fairmount Ravine cleanup, pulling invasives to help the greenbelt survive, as well as picking up thrown-out and dumped items. More info in our Friday preview. Refreshments/snacks! (Fairmount/Forest)

TIBBETTS SALE: Day two of the twice-annual rummage sale at Tibbetts United Methodist Church (WSB sponsor), 9 am-3 pm – details in our calendar listing. (41st/Andover)

WEST SIDE PRESBYTERIAN SALE: It’s also day two of the “gigantic garage sale” at West Side Presbyterian Church, 9 am-2 pm – details in our calendar listing. (3601 California SW)

WEST SEATTLE GEAR SWAP: First day of this weekend’s West Seattle Gear Swap, presented by Mountain to Sound Outfitters 10 am-6 pm (one last chance to drop off gear for sale during the first two hours). Sale is at American Legion Post 160 just down the block from M2SO. (3618 SW Alaska)

SCOUTING FOR FOOD: Cub Scout Pack 793 reminds us that they and other local Scouts (including Troop 282, mentioned here earlier this week) will be out this morning to place door-hangers for the Scouting For Food door-to-door food drive. They’ll be back next Saturday (March 22nd) to pick up donations left on doorsteps – and if you are missed, they’ll also be collecting food at their gathering spot 9 am-11 am that day (44th/Hill grassy triangle) – we’ll remind you again! Scouting for Food is nationwide and dates back to 1988.

TEA EXTRAVAGANZA: 10 am-1 pm, explore teas at PCC Natural Markets-West Seattle (WSB sponsor), with baked-goods samples too – details in our calendar listing. (California/Stevens)

HAPPY 6TH, ATOMIC BOYS: As mentioned in the biznotes published here Friday, Atomic Boys in The Admiral District invites you to stop by to help celebrate the toys/candy/more store’s sixth anniversary today, 10 am-6 pm. (4311 SW Admiral Way)

LOG HOUSE MUSEUM OPENS WITH NEW EXHIBIT: After two weeks of setup for the next chapter of “Telling Our Westside Stories,” the Southwest Seattle Historical Society‘s Log House Museum reopens at noon. You’ll be greeted by videos, SWSHS executive director Clay Eals explains, like this one with Bob Washburn‘s memorable story:

Eals says that’s “a good example of the interviews done by Madison Middle School students with still photos edited together to make videos that museum visitors will see when they come in the door.” More info on the LHM website; the museum is open noon-4 pm Thursdays-Sundays. (61st/Stevens)

WEST SEATTLEITES IN ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE DOWNTOWN: If you’re going to the 12:30 pm parade downtown, our report from Thursday mentions West Seattle participants (and if we missed any, please let us know!) and has links to other parade info, including the route. (On 4th Ave., northward from Jefferson)

SALAMANDER SEARCH: 3 pm at Camp Long, for ages 6 and up (all children must be accompanied by an adult) – details in our calendar listing. (5200 35th SW)

MADISON ‘CASINO NIGHT’ FUNDRAISER: The Madison Middle School PTSA‘s biggest fundraiser of the year starts at 6 pm at Brockey Center on the South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor) campus: “There will be some terrific auction items up for bid, including: a mountain-cabin weekend for 6, a distillery tour & tastings for 12, 6 hours of architectural services, dinner for 4 at Zippy’s, 5th Avenue Theater tickets …” Buffet dinner too. No ticket yet? Go here. (6000 16th SW)

OWLS AND OTHER ORGANISMS: 6:30 pm guided nature walk at Lincoln Park with naturalist Stewart Wechsler – details in our calendar listing. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

‘THIRD’: Curtain time for ArtsWest‘s production of the Wendy Wasserstein play is 7:30 pm. (4711 California SW)

NORTHWEST SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA IN WEST SEATTLE: The orchestra’s third concert of the season, “Music for the Soul,” is at 8 pm at Holy Rosary Church, featuring Bruckner’s 8th Symphony and “Motet” by Northwest composer Clement Reid. Ticket information is in our calendar listing. (42nd/Genesee)

LIVE MUSIC AT THE CASK: Acoustic set with Gary Benson, who specializes in singing the music of “James Taylor and other artists of that era.” 8-10 pm at The Cask. (2350 California SW)

CHLOROFORMULA AT FEEDBACK LOUNGE: 9:30 pm – be there. (6451 California SW)

Quirky finds are lurking throughout the two big church rummage sales under way right now in West Seattle. Above, a sighting at the Tibbetts United Methodist Church (WSB sponsor) sale, under way until 4 pm today, 9 am-3 pm tomorrow (41st/Andover); below, an item we noticed at the sale at West Side Presbyterian Church, until 5 pm today, 9 am-2 pm tomorrow (3601 California SW):

Can’t guarantee what’s still available, but WSPC posted a 41-photo preview gallery here.

This week’s sunshine gave Gatewood photographer/pilot Long B. Nguyen a chance for more West Seattle aerial imagery – and here’s one photo he shared with WSB: Duwamish Head and beyond. Great stage-setter for our preview of some of what’s happening on our beautiful peninsula today and tonight:

TIBBETTS SALE: The almost-spring edition of the twice-annual rummage sale at Tibbetts United Methodist Church (WSB sponsor) starts today, 9 am-4 pm – details in our calendar listing. (41st/Andover)

WEST SIDE PRESBYTERIAN SALE: It’s also the start of the “gigantic garage sale” (as declared via banner!) at West Side Presbyterian Church, also starting today, 9 am-5 pm – details in our calendar listing. (3601 California SW)

WEST SEATTLE GEAR SWAP DROPOFF: If you are selling gear in this weekend’s West Seattle Gear Swap, drop it off 10 am-7 pm at Mountain to Sound Outfitters. (3602 SW Alaska)

PI DAY PARTY AT THE LIBRARY: As previewed here earlier this week, right after school, at 3:14 pm, a Pi Day party kicks off at West Seattle (Admiral) Library – including, of course, pie. (2306 42nd SW)

LOCAL ACTOR’S MOVIE OPENS: West Seattle actor Lisa Coronado e-mailed to let us know she’s in the movie “Different Drummers,” and it’s opening at AMC Southcenter today – here’s the trailer:

The movie is described as being set “on the north side of Spokane in the 1960s, and focuses on the unlikely friendship between two fourth-graders: a hyperactive Lyle and his best friend David, who is in a wheelchair with Muscular Dystrophy. When David accurately predicts the death of their fourth-grade teacher, and says God told him, Lyle decides to test the existence of God by trying to get David to run again.” Read more about it at differentdrummersmovie.com; check showtimes here.

(added) ROXHILL DINNER: From comments:

2nd Annual Roxhill Family Dinner

White Center Community Center is having their 2nd Annual Family Dinner Fundraising Event for Roxhill Elementary. Come and have some fun! Catch up with old friends and make some new ones, get your picture taken at the photo booth with your family and friends. All proceeds will help support programs for Roxhill students. Everyone is welcome!

When: Friday, March 14, 2014
Time: 5:30 – 8:30 pm
Where: Seola Gardens
11215 5th Ave SW

ARBOR HEIGHTS AUCTION/GALA: 6:30 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy, it’s the Arbor Heights Elementary PTA‘s biggest fundraiser of the year – and this is a big year, since the school’s moving out of its old building and will be at Boren for 2 years before moving back into a brand-new building. Check here for ticket info, to see if there’s still room. (9131 California SW)

INTRODUCTION TO VEDIC CHANT: Workshop at Sound Yoga (WSB sponsor) – explained here. 6:30 pm. (5639 California SW)

FLAT 5 AT FEEDBACK: Classic soul/funk gets the Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) grooving tonight, 9:30 pm. (6451 California SW)

COOKIE SALES CONCLUDE: It’s the last weekend if you want Girl Scout Cookies!

Thanks to Myrtle for the photo of two Troop 40890 scouts (including her daughter) selling cookies this week. You can check the times, locations, and troops via the online Cookie Locator.

In case you missed the “sun pillar” at sunset last night – that photo is courtesy of JayDee, from Upper Alki. Along with a sunset walk, here are five options you might consider for tonight, via the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

ALMA Y AZUCAR: Performing live at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor), 6:30-8:30 pm. (1936 Harbor SW)

34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS: They’re talking minimum wage (and other things) with City Councilmember Sally Clark, who chairs a new committee focused on that topic, and they’ll look at officially endorsing the transit/roads-money measure. 7 pm, The Hall at Fauntleroy. (9131 California SW)

BACKYARD COTTAGE CLASS/STAY-HOME STRATEGIES FOR SENIORS: Not in West Seattle, but WS-based Ncompass Cottage Company (WSB sponsor) is presenting this class tonight at the Phinney Ridge Neighborhood Center ($25 general public). 7 pm. (6532 Phinney Ave. N.)

TRIVIA: Might be West Seattle’s longest-running trivia night, 8:30 pm at Talarico’s in The Junction; details in our calendar listing. (4718 California SW)

OPEN MIKE: Skylark Café and Club, open microphone for performers 21+, details in the calendar listing. 9 pm. (3803 Delridge Way SW)