Thanks to Long Bach Nguyen for the Alki aerial photographed during low tide on Saturday- not mega-low but low enough for exploration. Today’s lowest tide is at 1:39 pm and just short of minus one foot – still good for a walk. Here are some of the other highlights for today/tonight from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

DUWAMISH RIVER CLEANUP HEALTH-EFFECTS BRIEFING: With about a month left for public comment on the EPA’s proposed cleanup plan for the Duwamish River, the City Council will be briefed at 10 am today about how the proposal might affect the health of people who live near and/or use the river – and what more advocates think it should do. Here’s a preview on our partner site The South Park News; you can watch the briefing live via Seattle Channel (online or cable channel 21).

NDNC MEETS @ YOUNGSTOWN FLATS: Instead of meeting at the Delridge Library as usual, tonight the North Delridge Neighborhood Council will have its regular monthly meeting at newly opened Youngstown Flats (WSB sponsor). Time’s the same – 6:30 pm, but if you are interested in touring YF, there’s an optional tour BEFORE the meeting, at 6 pm. The main agenda items have just been announced:

DIY Bikes program – Stu Hennessey
Duwamish River Cleanup Coalition – Maria Lewis
Combined Sewer Overflow Program

Parking instructions from the NDNC website: “Drivers may park in the garage off of Dakota. There is a call box on the outside of the front door with directions to call the office for entry. We should have someone stationed outside to direct attendees.” (26th/Dakota)

YEAR OF THE SEAL: Find out more about Seal Sitters‘ project at a community meeting tonight, 7 pm at Alki Bathhouse, as previewed here earlier this month. (2701 Alki SW)

FAMILY STORY TIME: Our calendar features Seattle Public Library branch events throughout the week, but we like to highlight them here too – tonight, for example, it’s Family Story Time, 7 pm at High Point Library. (35th/Raymond)

(Blooming border along Thistle St. Stairs to/from Lincoln Park; photo by Mark Ahlness)
May showers bring … more May flowers. And this Mother’s Day is certainly blossoming with promise. From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

REMEMBERING MOM: If you’re going to Forest Lawn Cemetery and Funeral Home (WSB sponsor) to remember Mom today, they plan to have roses for mothers and to place on mothers’ gravesites, and people will be there to offer extra assistance to locate sites if needed.

FARMERS’ MARKET CELEBRATES ASPARAGUS: Cooking tips/demos, 11 am-1 pm, during the market’s regular 10-2 hours. (44th/Alaska)

FLOWERS FROM FLEURT: If you’re looking for flowers to be delivered to Mom (or anyone else for that matter) today, Fleurt (WSB sponsor) in The Junction can do it. They’re open 11 am-4 pm, with deliveries “all day – call early for the best selection,” says proprietor Sam Crowley. They also deliver potted plants, terrariums, and “other cool gifts Mom will love.” Call 206.937.1103. (4536 California SW)

GLASS-BLOWING DEMONSTRATION: Bring Mom to see art in action at Avalon Glassworks today, 11 am-5 pm. (2914 SW Avalon Way)

FAMILY BEACH SAFARI: Go out tidewalking! 11:30 am, at Emma Schmitz Overlook across from Me-Kwa-Mooks. (4503 Beach Drive SW)

SEATTLE RAINMAKERS: The Major League Ultimate team is back home this afternoon at Southwest Athletic Complex, hosting the Vancouver Nighthawks at 1 pm. (2801 SW Thistle)

KALEY MARIE AT C & P: 3-5 pm, another chance to hear this teenage singer/songwriter perform, C & P Coffee Company. (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor)

WEST SEATTLE COOKING CLUB: Ales for Seattle Beer Week (details here): Bring your dish to Beveridge Place Pub at 3 pm. (6413 California SW)

(Photo by Trileigh Tucker)
In addition to West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day – 9 am-3 pm, maps here! – which we’ll be covering all day long, here are other highlights:

STAMP OUT HUNGER: Just like WSCGSD, this nationwide door-to-door food drive is on the second Saturday of the month every year. Whatever you are doing today, please take a few minutes first to bag up some nonperishable food to donate, and set it out by your mailbox (or door, if you use a mail slot) for your letter carrier to pick up. You can also drop it by Café Osita at 7349 35th SW, which is accepting dropoffs again this year.

INTERNATIONAL MIGRATORY BIRD DAY: Trileigh Tucker shares the photo of a Western Tanager (above) with word of this special day. She says they fly 3,000 miles just to build nests here. She’s drawn up a list of Lincoln Park’s birds – take a walk in the park and look for them; here’s the list. And find out more about birds and how to help them, on her website, Natural Presence.

EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION DRILL: Volunteers around the city are joining in an emergency-communication drill this morning, 9 am-noon. West Seattle’s trailblazing volunteers are activating the Morgan Junction Neighborhood Communication Hub – north parking lot at West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor) – during the drill, and you’re welcome to observe. (California/Fauntleroy/Morgan)

WALK WITH US TO CURE LUPUS: The annual fundraising 5K is on Alki again this year; same-day signups start at 9 am, and the walk begins at 10 am – details here.

MADISON STUDENTS ON STAGE! 10 am today is the second and final performance of “Honk Jr.” by Madison Middle School students, directed by Taproot Theater’s Jenny Cross at the West Seattle High School Theater; tickets $10 at the door. (3000 California SW)

TALK WITH YOUR SCHOOL BOARD REP: Marty McLaren holds a community-conversation meeting at Southwest Branch Library, 10 am-noon.

PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: Little Rascals Preschool invites prospective families to stop by, 10 am-1 pm today. (4125 51st SW)

WSHS POSTSEASON BASEBALL: 11 am at Steve Cox Memorial Park, as per coverage here last night.

VOLUNTEER AT THE LOG HOUSE MUSEUM: Along with having a sale as part of WS Community Garage Sale Day (#70 on the map), the Southwest Seattle Historical Society is having its monthly Log House Museum info session for new volunteers, 11 am-1 pm. (61st/Stevens)

PRE-MOTHER’S DAY EVENT: Barnes and Noble is hosting an event involving several Westwood Village businesses, looking ahead to Mother’s Day. Among them: WSB sponsor Wyatt’s Jewelers. Stop by B&N 11 am-3 pm; more information here.

HIGH POINT GARDEN PARTY: A potluck picnic and garden celebration are set for 2-5 pm next to High Point Neighborhood Center – all invited. (6400 Sylvan Way)

ANOTHER MAYOR-CANDIDATE CHAT: Tim Burgess returns to West Seattle, this time for a 2:30-3:30 pm “meet with voters” event at Beveridge Place Pub. (6413 California SW)

HIGHLAND PARK UNCORKED: It’s sold out, so if you don’t have a ticket, you’re out of luck, but in case you pass by the Highland Park Improvement Club and wonder what’s up – tonight’s their “Uncorked” wine-and-more benefit, 6 pm. (12th/Holden)

NORTHWEST HARVEST FUNDRAISER … tonight at OutWest Bar; details in our listing. (California/Brandon)

NOT DEAD YET: The local-favorite band plays the Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) at 9:30 tonight. (6451 California SW)

(Young bald eagle, photographed last week by Danny McMillin and shared via the WSB Flickr group)
With almost 300 of your neighbors – or maybe you AND almost 300 of your neighbors – getting ready to host sales on West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day tomorrow, we’re mentioning it everywhere we can. Like here. But as always, there’s lots more going on, too – here are notes for today/tonight:

WV POST OFFICE REOPENS: We added the update to our coverage of yesterday afternoon’s pickup-truck crash at the Westwood Village post office: The branch IS open today as usual. (P.S. Don’t forget to put out your food donation tomorrow for the Stamp Out Hunger door-to-door postal carriers’ food drive!)

BAKE SALE AND MINI-BAZAAR: Happening all day, till 4 pm, at The Mount. (4831 35th SW)

MAYORAL CANDIDATE IN WEST SEATTLE: It’s a busy campaign season with eight people on the August primary ballot for Seattle Mayor, so every time we hear about one of them coming to West Seattle to meet with potential voters, we’ll tell you about it. Tonight, Peter Steinbrueck is at the Duwamish Tribe Longhouse, 6-8 pm.

‘BOBCAT BOB’ AT C & P: Tomorrow, C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor) is a group site for West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day, but tonight, it’s a coffeehouse with live music – courtesy of fan favorite “Bobcat Bob” Rice. He performs 6-8 pm. (5612 California SW)

WEST SEATTLE HI-YU AUCTION, CORONATION, WHITE ROSE CEREMONY: Tonight, 7-10 pm at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish Life Center, help West Seattle Hi-Yu raise money and celebrate royalty past and present, with the White Rose Ceremony and the coronation of the new queen. Details and ticket link here. (35th and Myrtle)

More on the calendar!

(This spring’s poster/postcard art for WS Art Walk is by the late Emily Williamson)
Art Walk night! And a half-dozen more highlights for today/tonight …

THOSE RED-SHIRTED LINCOLN PARK VOLUNTEERS … The Keller Williams Realty “RED Day” project this year will bring volunteers to Lincoln Park for projects including a beach cleanup, and you’ll see them out until about 2 pm today, fanning out from the south end of the park.

WEST SEATTLE ART WALK! 6-9 pm, places to go, art to see, artists to meet, refreshments at many stops … You can find the full venue list and preview many of the venues’ art and artists by going to wsartwalk.com. What might be the biggest stop tonight will feature many of the 14 featured artists of newly opened Youngstown Flats (WSB sponsor), there for a reception to celebrate their work – tour the building, too. (26th/Dakota)

WINE CLUB AT C & P: The second Thursday of the month is also Wine Club night at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 6-8 pm, with music tonight by Choro Tocando – details here. (5612 California SW)

(“Character” rendering of 4535 44th SW proposal, by Nicholson Kovalchick Architects)>
DESIGN REVIEW FOR 4535 44TH SW: An all-studio-apartments project in The Junction goes before the Southwest Design Review Board tonight for the first time, 6:30 pm, upstairs at the Senior Center of West Seattle. See the “packet” of graphics and information here. (California/Oregon)

OPEN HOUSE FOR NEW SCHOOL: As previewed here earlier this week, there’s an open house at 7 tonight at South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor) for the new West Seattle Cooperative School (K-2nd). Details in the calendar listing. (6000 16th SW, room RAH 201)

STYLE ’13: Benefit fashion show tonight at Showbox SODO for West Seattleite-founded/-led Northwest Hope and Healing, which helps support breast-cancer patients as they get through diagnosis and treatment. Tickets at the door; details here.

’33 VARIATIONS’: ArtsWest‘s new production is in its second week – see tonight’s performance at 7:30 pm.

Another big day around West Seattle! First item explains the photo:

BIKE TO SCHOOL DAY: Thanks to Anna Coghill for e-mailing to report that Alki Elementary students marked National Bike to School Day by gathering in two spots to ride to school – Anna says, “Students, parents and school staff were all smiles this morning after the Ride Your Bike to School Train organized by Mr. Kegel. He led our Me-Kwa-Mooks train and Principal Oatis led the Anchor Park train.”

Here are other highlights including some of what’s on today’s section of the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you’ll find lots more);

ANOTHER DAY FOR SHRIMP FISHING: We’re already getting questions about “what are all those boats fishing for?” The answer: As mentioned here last weekend, today is a second opportunity for spot-shrimp fishing on Elliott Bay.

COOKING COMPETITION AT WSHS – OPEN TO THE PUBLIC: Today’s the day a celebrity chef is expected at West Seattle High School to judge a cooking competition (first reported here last month) involving ProStart culinary students who are part of a national competition. WSHS confirms that for the outdoor events in the competition, the public is welcome – it all starts at 1:30 pm. (3000 California SW)

FREE WORKSHOP: Learn how to preserve family collections of photos and artwork in a free 3-5 pm workshop at the Senior Center of West Seattle. (California/Oregon)

COMMUNITY CONVERSATION FOR GENESEE HILL SCHOOL PROJECT: Today’s the date to which a “community conversation” about the new elementary school at Genesee Hill was moved – 6:30 pm at Schmitz Park Elementary. (5000 SW Spokane)

CANDIDATE FORUM AT 34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS’ MEETING: Not the candidates for mayor- the 34th DDs were co-sponsors of the big forum a week and a half ago (WSB coverage, with video, here) – but candidates from many other races have RSVPd. Chair Marcee Stone-Vekich shared an update on the meeting’s agenda and who’ll be there – ahead, what happens after 6:30 pm “meet and greet”:

Read More

(SPD deputy chief Nick Metz with the mayor; January photo by Ken Lambert/The Seattle Times, republished with permission)
The city has announced what will be done with some of the metal from guns obtained in the January city “buyback” – it’ll be turned into plaques. The inscriptions for those plaques will come from a contest for children called “Weapons to Words,” explained in the city announcement:

Today Mayor Mike McGinn announced an outreach effort to inspire conversation among the youth of Seattle about gun violence. The City of Seattle, with the support of Chihuly Studio and Schnitzer Steel, is launching a contest called “Weapons to Words” that asks children in Seattle to come up with a short quotation on the subject of gun violence. Plaques made from metal upcycled from guns recovered from Seattle’s gun buyback program will feature quotes from Seattle students about what a violence-free future means to them.

“Our city has been through a lot lately. Gun violence has left many in our community wondering what they can do to help” said Mayor McGinn. “These upcycled plaques, inscribed with the hopes and dreams of the next generation, will transform weapons of violence into something positive. It is my hope that this project will spur a conversation in our community about what kind of city we want to be, and how we can get there together.”

The plaques, made from upcycled steel that includes the weapons we recovered, will be placed in Seattle parks.

Read More

In memory of the Easy Street Records awning (WSB coverage here), our “picture of the day” is the semi-live image from the SDOT traffic camera at California/Alaska in The Junction, which also shows the full-height Oregon 42 construction project at upper right. On to what else is happening today, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

EAT AT JOE’S, HELP THE FAUNTLEROY FALL FESTIVAL: One of the signs at WSB sponsor Endolyne Joe’s exhorts, “Eat at Joe’s,” and when you do that tonight starting at 5 pm, you’ll be raising money for this volunteer-presented festival, happening this year on October 20th. (9261 45th SW)

RIDE TO REMEMBER LANCE DAVID: Join West Seattle Bike Connections and West Seattle Greenways at 5:30 pm tonight, departing from Seacrest, for a ride to remember Lance David, who died in last Wednesday’s bike-truck collision on East Marginal Way. Full ride details here.

WESTWOOD-ROXHILL-ARBOR HEIGHTS COUNCIL MEETING: Earlier time this month, but same location – 6 pm, Southwest Branch Library, with priorities and leadership on the agenda. (35th/Henderson)

(added) STORYTELLERS!

The Seattle Storytellers Guild presents TELLERS & WRITERS
A monthly program to craft & share our universal stories

Partnering with CHACO CANYON ORGANIC CAFE
Discover the power of storytelling with our featured guests:
7 pm to 8:30 pm – Pamela Sackett, Auntmama, Liz Hibbard

Looking for storytelling, writing tips – 6:30 to 7 pm
workshops with Liz Hibbard and Nancy Calos-Nakano

Want a chance to tell a story? Sign up at 6:30pm
Memorized or written, there’s a place for you!

Chaco Canyon is at 37th/Alaska.

TRIVIA GIVEAWAY: Tonight’s Trivia That Rocks at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) will include a giveaway of tickets for the upcoming Seattle Queensryche concert. Trivia starts at 8 pm. (6451 California SW)

SING IT: Baby Ketten Karaoke tonight, 9 pm, Skylark Café and Club. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

It’s beautiful from the sky as well as the ground – North Delridge’s Dragonfly Garden (aka Pavilion)! has dragonfly-shaped landscaping too? Thanks as always to Long Bach Nguyen for sharing West Seattle aerial views like this! Meantime, while regular Monday events are on the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, here are three today/tonight-only highlights:

HIGH-SCHOOL BASEBALL POSTSEASON: Metro League playoffs start with West Seattle High School vs. Bainbridge Island at Hiawatha, 3:30 pm, same time that Chief Sealth International High School will be on the road vs. Eastside Catholic. (Thanks to Greg Slader, the WSHS parent who’s been contributing updates all season, for the details.)

HELP HI-YU – MEETING TONIGHT: 6:30 pm at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, it’s the next general meeting for everyone interested in the West Seattle Hi-Yu Summer Festival – which as you probably know is not a one-day one-time “festival” but instead a collection of summer events including the annual construction of the last Seattle neighborhood traveling parade float. As reported here over the weekend, Hi-Yu needs more community help to keep the 79-year tradition alive to see its 80th anniversary. Showing up tonight is a start. (California/Hanford)

TALK THEATER: Go behind-the-scenes in a live, free conversation with cast members and key staff from ArtsWest’s current production “33 Variations,” 7:30 pm. (4711 California SW)

(Saturday evening photo by Machel Spence)
More sunshine today! And more chances to enjoy our community – here are a few:

WSUU RUMMAGE SALE, DAY 2: 9 am-2 pm, the Westside Unitarian Universalists‘ rummage sale continues (7141 California SW)

EXPLORE FAUNTLEROY ON FOOT: Another one of “Jane’s Walks,” this time with FeetFirst community ambassador Marge Evans, starting at 10 am at The Original Bakery. (45th/Wildwood)

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: From fish to flowers to farm-fresh eggs (and more), the market‘s always particularly beautiful in the sunshine. 10 am to 2 pm. (44th/Alaska)

ENJOY THE SUN ON 2 WHEELS: West Seattle Spokespeople will head out on a ride from Jack Block Park at 11 am – details on the Sustainable West Seattle website.

RETURN OF WEST SEATTLE ULTIMATE FAMILY FRISBEE: 11 am at Fairmount Playfield – with a “coolest disc” contest – bring yours! (Fauntleroy/Brandon)

AUTHOR GREGORY MARTIN AT SW LIBRARY: The author of “Stories for Boys” will be at Southwest Library at 11 am to read and discuss; books also will be available for purchase/signing. “Stories for Boys” is the current “Seattle Reads” book. (35th/Henderson)

CELEBRATE THE EARTH … at Peace Lutheran Church in Gatewood, noon-3 pm. As explained in the calendar listing, a new community garden is the centerpiece of today’s celebration, but there will be gardening tips for all, music, food, and more. (39th and Thistle)

‘SUNDAYS ARE SPECIAL’ CELEBRATION: Seattle Public Library branches continue to celebrate the return of Sunday hours, and today Delridge Library has its turn, 2=3:30 pm – our calendar listing explains what you’ll find if you stop by!

CINCO DE MAYO: Food and drink specials abound, and one of the places you’ll find them is the Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), with six special cocktails and a chicken-enchilada dinner listed on the Feedback’s home page. (6451 California SW)

Then, to end the weekend …

(Saturday night’s sunset, by Russ Walker)
TONIGHT’S SUNSET … will be at 8:27 pm. (You can always find the sunset/sunrise and moonrise/moonset times on the WSB Weather page.)

Thanks to John Hinkey for sharing that photo taken shortly after sunrise on this sunny Saturday – lots on the calendar, including these highlights:

TRAFFIC/TRANSIT ALERTS: Spokane Street repaving under the bridge till 7 tonight (which means bus reroutes, too), and the bridge ramp to southbound I-5 is closed all weekend.

GATHERING OF NEIGHBORS: After a morning of presentations and discussions, it’s an afternoon resource fair, including community advocates and volunteers with information about programs and organizations that enhance life in West Seattle and White Center – plus entertainment! 9 am-3 pm at the Chief Sealth International High School Galleria; we published the full program last night. (2600 SW Thistle)

HELP LINCOLN PARK: It’s the first Saturday of the month and that means the Friends of Lincoln Park are out removing invasives – your help can make a big difference. Details in our calendar listing. (Meet @ Fauntleroy/Rose, or if late, check kiosk for info)

EXPLORE THE JUNCTION AND TRIANGLE ON FOOT: Meet at 10 am at the Admiral area’s water tower for a Feet First-presented walk exploring the neighborhoods’ character and new development – details on this page (Charlestown/39th SW)

WSUU RUMMAGE SALE: Big sale this weekend at the Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation‘s church in Gatewood; today’s hours are 9 am-3 pm. (7141 California SW)

HELP CLEAN UP NORTH DELRIDGE: Meet at Skylark at 10 am to join the North Delridge Neighborhood Council cleanup of the walking path to Spokane Street- details on the NDNC website. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

RUN FOR LIGHTS 5K: First fundraising run of the season, 10 am at Lincoln Park, presented by Orphans to Ambassadors – details here.

FAMILY HIKE AT CAMP LONG: Join the “Family Matters” event organized by Fauntleroy Church, at Camp Long, 10 am – details in the calendar listing. (5200 California SW)

CLOTHES DONATION: Got clothing you don’t want/need? Today’s the day a local Brownie Troop is collecting it for charity – drop it off 11 am-1 pm at Gatewood Elementary. (Back lot on Frontenac just west of California)

JEWELRY LAUNCH AT CLICK! 11 am-5 pm at Click! Design That Fits (WSB sponsor) in The Junction, it’s a two-part, one-artist jewelry event – “the introduction of Click!’s comprehensive collection of Konzuk engagement rings and wedding bands and the launch of Orbis, Karen Konzuk‘s new line of concrete and gold jewelry” – and you’ll get to meet the artist, too! (4540 California SW)

THRIFTWAY BARBECUE SEASON BEGINS: First fundraising barbecue of the season at West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor), 11 am-4 pm, burgers to benefit West Seattle Helpline! (4201 SW Morgan, intersection of California/Fauntleroy)

HAIRSTORM AT THE FEEDBACK: ’80s “hair metal” tribute band Hairstorm is back at the Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 9:30 pm. (6451 California SW)

(WSB reader “Wes C. Addle” shares the Longfellow Creek path photo, suspecting the creek’s beavers have been busy)
Highlights of what’s ahead today/tonight, including listings from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

TRAFFIC ALERT: In case you missed it in today’s traffic/transit tracker, the eastbound West Seattle Bridge ramp to southbound I-5 closes tonight at 10, to reopen by 5 am Monday, the final major closure scheduled as part of the Spokane St. Interchange Special Bridge Repair project.

USS JOHN C STENNIS TO SAIL PAST WEST SEATTLE: The carrier is en route back to Bremerton after an 8-month deployment, and due there around 2 pm, according to the Kitsap Sun – which means it should be visible off West Seattle shores in early afternoon. (Let us know if you happen to see it coming into view! Text/voice to 206-293-6302 – same number to use for breaking news any time!)

CARNE ASADA BOWL: The annual soccer match between Chief Sealth International High School and The World School is at 4 pm today, Southwest Athletic Complex. (2801 SW Thistle)

PATIO SEASON AT LA RUSTICA: Beach Drive’s only restaurant shares the news that its patio opens for the season tonight – maybe the earliest opening yet, says proprietor Giulio Pellegrini. (4100 Beach Drive SW)

MEET A MAYORAL CANDIDATE: One of the eight people running for mayor of Seattle (all of whom appeared at the area forum we covered, with video, Monday night) makes a stop in West Seattle tonight to meet with anyone interested in stopping by: Peter Steinbrueck will be at Beveridge Place Pub 5-6:30 pm. (6413 California SW)

FOOD BANK DINNER: The West Seattle Food Bank‘s annual Instruments of Change dinner/silent auction is tonight at The Hall at Fauntleroy, 5:30 pm. Check with WS Food Bank to see if any tickets remain. (9131 California SW)

HIGHLAND PARK’S CORNER BAR: The monthly don’t-miss “pop-up bar” reappears tonight starting at 6 pm at Highland Park Improvement Club, including a Cuban music mix and “Havana Heat” special beverage. (12th/Holden)

GARY BENSON AT C & P: A solo folk-music performer, playing live at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 6-8 pm. (5612 California SW)

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT: Little Pilgrim School invites you to come watch “The Gruffalo” and “The Gruffalo’s Brother,” 6:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall at Fauntleroy Church. (9140 California SW)

Before we get to more of the news that’s already in queue for today – four notes from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, plus two cool photos, starting with Thomas Marx‘s Alki gull-and-heron scene, above (scroll down for #2) …

SPANISH BUFFET LUNCH, ANYONE? You’ll have to call Betty ASAP at 206.934.7952 to see if reservations are still available (the seatings are at 11:30 and noon today) – South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor) Culinary Arts students are presenting an international buffet lunch today featuring the cuisine of Spain. (6000 16th SW)

DAY OF PRAYER: A “National Day of Prayer” gathering is planned at 6:30 tonight at Alki Statue of Liberty Plaza. Details are in our calendar listing. (61st/Alki SW)

PUBLIC SAFETY FORUM: King County Sheriff John Urquhart is among the guests at the North Highline Unincorporated Area Council‘s public-safety forum at 7 pm tonight in White Center. It’s geared toward unincorporated-area residents but we’ve found, covering these forums for partner site White Center Now, that the information is often helpful to a wide audience – so we’re mentioning them here too. (1243 SW 112th)

NIGHT TWO AT ARTSWEST: 7:30 pm, it’s the second night for ArtsWest’s newest production, the Tony Award-nominated “33 Variations.” (4711 California SW)

BONUS PHOTO:

Last night’s “sundog,” photographed from Beach Drive by Jeff Johnson.

Thanks to Jim Edwards for the low-tide photo with an unusual perspective – taken from Alki Point, showing Duwamish Head in the foreground, and the Space Needle looming from the downtown waterfront. If you’re able to get out to a beach at mid-afternoon, it’s almost as low again today as it was this weekend: -2.4. The Needle is an appropriate image today since three of today’s West Seattle-relevant events are actually off-peninsula; here are five highlights, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

METRO BRIEFS CITY COUNCIL ON POTENTIAL CUTS: The State Legislature has adjourned without a transportation package; no guarantee what’ll happen during its special session next month. So Metro’s warning of funding trouble leading to dozens of route cuts/reductions still stands, and two of its executives will brief the Seattle City Council at 10 this morning. You can watch live at seattlechannel.org (or cable channel 21).

BALORICO OPEN HOUSE: 3:30-8:30 pm, it’s an open house for Balorico dance instruction at Kenyon Hall. (7904 35th SW)

HIGH-SCHOOL SPORTS: Huge afternoon of games right here on the peninsula – West Seattle HS and Chief Sealth IHS softball, soccer, and softball teams are all playing at West Seattle venues – as listed here.

DESIGN REVIEW CHANGES? The City Council’s Planning, Land Use, and Sustainability Committee will hold a public hearing at City Hall tonight, 5:30 pm, on new guidelines regarding how Design Review works and what’s in its jurisdiction – here’s the agenda.

SUPER SOUTH SEATTLE MAYOR’S FORUM: The first time everyone who’s running for Seattle Mayor this year will share a stage, and the 34th District Democrats are co-sponsoring it. Details in our latest preview (published Sunday); mingle at 6, forum at 6:30, South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor)’s Georgetown branch. (6737 Corson Ave. S.)

(Photo by Flickr member old desolate, shared via the WSB Flickr group)
Today’s low tide is even lower than yesterday: -2.7, at 1:30 pm, and that’s the inspiration for one of the activities on today’s list of highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

RECYCLE ROUNDUP! 9 am-3 pm, the Fauntleroy Church Green Committee‘s twice-yearly event gives you the chance to recycle many items you just can’t put out for regular curbside pickup. Here’s the list; the dropoff with 1 Green Planet is, as usual, in the church parking lot. (9140 California SW)

WEST SEATTLE ROCK CLUB’S ROCK & GEM SHOW, DAY 2: If you were too busy to get to this annual extravaganza on Saturday, good news – it continues today! The official poster/flyer has the details – not just displays of rocks and gems, but also free activities, especially fun for kids. At the Alki Masonic Temple, 10 am-5 pm. (40th/Edmunds)

FAMILY BEACH SAFARI: On the Beach Drive shore across from Me-Kwa-Mooks, volunteer beach naturalists will guide you through a shore exploration during the aforementioned low-low tide, noon-2 pm. (4500 block of Beach Drive)

COOKING CLUB GOES ITALIAN: Cook up your favorite Italian recipe and bring it to share – that’s all you need to do to check out the West Seattle Cooking Club‘s 3 pm meeting today, Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW).

‘HOME FOR THE HUNTS’ SKATING BENEFIT: 5-7 pm, skate at Southgate Roller Rink as part of what you could call an international fundraiser to help a family; raffles too! (9646 17th SW)

AND A TRAFFIC REMINDER: The Delridge/Thistle intersection remains closed for repaving throughout the weekend, but should reopen by tomorrow morning.

Got shreddables? You have till 1 pm to get over to C & P Coffee (5612 California SW) for the free shredding event presented by IHeartWestSeattle.com (which like C & P is a WSB sponsor). Above, the monitor you can watch while the shredding truck is reducing your paperwork to, well, shreds. Next photo, your hosts – Lannon Garcia from Recall Shredding, Dale Wampler and Roger Steiner from IHWS, and Hans Illingworth from Cobalt Mortgage, which co-sponsored the event:

They say today’s event was a big hit from the start!

Mark Wangerin photographed that American Goldfinch recently in Lincoln Park, one of the places where one-of-a-kind events will make this a VERY busy day in West Seattle. From the calendar:

TRAFFIC ALERT – DELRIDGE/THISTLE: All weekend, the Delridge/Thistle intersection is closed, both ways, as part of the year-long Delridge repaving project. The detour info is here.

ARBOR HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY CLEANUP: Everyone’s invited/urged to help:

Please join the Arbor Heights Elementary Community for our annual Spring Cleanup! Grab your gardening gloves and any gardening tools/equipment you have (or use what is provided) and come on down to school Saturday morning to help beautify our school grounds. Can’t stay the entire time? That’s OK. Just stop by anytime between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm. Every pair of helping hands will make a difference and your help will be greatly appreciated! Families, Friends, Neighbors, Community Members, etc… are ALL welcome to participate!

The school is at 3701 SW 104th.

SCHMITZ PARK PRESERVE CLEANUP: The monthly work party welcomes helpers, 9 am-noon, details here.

TAI CHI ON THE BEACH: 9 am, just west of the Alki Statue of Liberty – details here.

DONATION DRIVE TO HELP REFUGEE FAMILIES: Donations of furniture and furnishings will be accepted at Hope Lutheran, 10 am-2 pm, as listed here.

YMCA’S ‘HEALTHY KIDS DAY’: Activities, snacks, and more at the West Seattle Y (4515 36th SW; WSB sponsor), all welcome, 10 am-1 pm (and if you’re not a member but decide to join – no joining fees, all weekend!) – details here.

FREE SHREDDING! 9 am-1 pm (correct time – sorry for earlier error), bring your shreddables to C & P Coffee Company (5612 California SW) for this event presented by IHeartWestSeattle.com (which like C & P is a WSB sponsor) – details here.

DRUG TAKE-BACK DAY: 10 am-2 pm, get those expired/unneeded medications out of your cabinet(s) and into the disposal box at the Southwest Precinct (off Webster west of Delridge) during this twice-yearly event – previewed here.

WEST SEATTLE ROCK CLUB SHOW: Literally tons of fun, as the official poster/flyer points out – rocks, gems, free activities, free admission, free parking. At the Alki Masonic Temple, 40th/Edmunds, 10 am-5 pm (tomorrow too).

‘MOBILE BOUTIQUE’ LAUNCH: The My Violette “mobile boutique” truck will be at Ola Salon (2942 SW Avalon Way) 10 am-2 pm for its launch party.

‘CELEBRATE LINCOLN PARK,’ PART 2: 10:30 am-2:30 pm (with a low-low tide midway through), explore the park along the shore, through the trees, and via art and writing, with the help of expert/volunteer guides and interpreters, in a multitude of ways, including kids’ activities! Presented by the Fauntleroy Community Association, whose website has the full detailed schedule.

GREEN HOME TOUR: 11 am-5 pm, take the free, self-guided tour – a citywide event that includes one West Seattle home and features several other West Seattle businesses’ projects elsewhere in the city, including WSB sponsor LD Arch Design‘s Green Lake project at 6063 4th Avenue NE (also featured here – and thanks to LD Arch’s Parie Hines for providing the list of tour links!).

CAT IN THE HAT @ BARNES & NOBLE STORYTIME: He’s the special guest for Dr. Seuss story-reading during the weekly storytime at Barnes and Noble in Westwood Village, 11 am (with, we’re told “special Cat Hats for the kids to wear!”).

BELLS OF THE SOUND: The handbell choir’s “Just Jazz” concert will be presented at Tibbetts United Methodist Church (3940 41st SW; WSB sponsor), 7 pm.

‘THE MAMA-LOGUES’: 2nd and final night of this “comedy about motherhood,” while helping nonprofits including WestSide Baby, 7 pm at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW). Ticket info and details in our recent preview.

MAJOR LEAGUE ULTIMATE @ SWAC: Second West Seattle home game for the pro Ultimate players of the Seattle Rainmakers, hosting the Portland Stags, 7 pm, Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle) – here’s our coverage of the home opener last Saturday.

SEATTLE LUTHERAN STUDENT MUSICAL: It’s “Urinetown,” a “satirical comedy musical,” second of three performances tonight at 7:30 pm at the Menashe Gym (40th and Genesee) – official poster/flyer shared via Twitter, here.

TORCH QUARTET: Performing tonight at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW) – details in our calendar listing.

Just in from West Seattle pilot/photographer Long Bach Nguyen – that beautiful aerial of our wonderful peninsula – which is awash in cool happenings today/tonight. Full list is on our calendar; here are 10 highlights from that list:

FREE SOUP-AND-SANDWICH LUNCH: Seaview United Methodist Church invites you to this free monthly community lunch, 11:30 am. (4620 SW Graham)

WYATT’S JEWELERS ANNIVERSARY: 5-7 pm tonight, enjoy refreshments, raffle, and Mother’s Day shopping at longtime WSB sponsor Wyatt’s Jewelers. (Westwood Village)

RAINBOW BINGO: Doors open at 6, bingo at 7, with a Las Vegas theme this month – call the Senior Center of West Seattle pronto to make sure you have a reservation! (California/Oregon)

MADISON MS BENEFIT: 6-9 pm, dance with not only Madison Middle School musicians but also the West Seattle Big Band! Details in our preview. (45th/Spokane)

SANISLO ELEMENTARY BENEFIT: 21+ event – community invited! – tonight at Highland Park Improvement Club, with raffles, a mini-auction, and dessert dash. (12th/Holden)

‘THE MAMA-LOGUES’: “Comedy about motherhood,” benefiting nonprofits including WestSide Baby, tonight and tomorrow at 7 at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. Ticket info and more in our preview. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

OPEN PAINTING, WITH MUSIC: Young at Art invites you to Open Studio Painting tonight with live music by Wes Sp8 and live painting by Dave Bloomfield, 7:30-9 pm – details here. (Fauntleroy/Raymond)

‘YOU ARE LOVED, A BIG GAY CABARET’: 21+ event at Meander’s in White Center, 7:30 pm – details on the Brown Paper Tickets page – this is the event replacing the canceled Michelle Shocked concert. (9635 16th SW)

MUSICA SACRA CHAMBER CHORALE: “A Taste of (Benjamin) Britten,” 7:30 pm at Holy Rosary – details in our calendar listing. (42nd/Oregon)

MEMPHIS RADIO KINGS @ FEEDBACK: Third night of the Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) 4-night anniversary party – their reunion performance is at 9 pm. (6451 California SW)

(Wednesday morning’s sunrise, with great blue heron; photo by Joya)
Five highlights for today/tonight from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

GOT QUESTIONS ABOUT SOCIAL SECURITY? Get answers directly from a Social Security Administration rep at the West Seattle (Admiral) Library today, 3:30 pm, at an event co-sponsored by the West Seattle Lions Club; details here. (2306 42nd SW)

DINNER TO BENEFIT WORLD VISION: 4:30-6 pm at Merrill Gardens-Admiral Heights (WSB sponsor) – free, with donations accepted for World Vision. Call to see if there’s still room; info’s in our calendar listing. (2326 California SW)

DINING OUT FOR LIFE: Dine and/or drink at one of the participating establishments tonight – the DOFL/Seattle site has the same six-venue West Seattle/White Center list we reported earlier this week – and you’ll be supporting Lifelong AIDS Alliance. They’re all signed on for dinner, donating at least 30 percent of proceeds (Skylark’s giving 50 percent!).

FEEDBACK LOUNGE’S SECOND 4TH-ANNIVERSARY PARTY: The celebration continues on the actual anniversary of the night in 2009 when Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) opened its doors. Festivities start at 6 – details in the calendar listing. (6451 California SW)

ORCAS OF THE WORLD: That’s what you’ll find out about with The Whale Trail tonight at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), as Uko Gorter discusses our beloved local whales’ cousins around the globe. Details, including ticket info, here. (5612 California SW)

P.S. Should be a beautiful full moon tonight; Alice Enevoldsen‘s most recent “Skies Over West Seattle“ reminds us of the date, and you can check the moonrise/moonset/sunrise/sunset times anytime on the WSB West Seattle Weather page.

(Tuesday morning photo by Myrtle Griffiths)
Another beautiful day! From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

MOMMY & ME PAINTING: Mind Unwind in The Admiral District is starting a new once-monthly class – more often if there’s interest! – and the first one is today, 1 pm, painting with your 3-to-5-year-old. Details here. (2206 California SW)

TALK LIVE WITH PROFESSIONAL PADDLERS: Candice Appleby and Danny Ching will answer “questions on racing, training, and all things SUP” during a live closed-circuit broadcast event 6-7 pm tonight at Mountain to Sound Outfitters in The Triangle – and proprietor Greg Whittaker says any question they answer will bring a prize for the person who asked it! More info on the Facebook event page. (3602 SW Alaska)

FEEDBACK TURNS FOUR: Tonight’s the first of multiple 4th-anniversary parties Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) has in store, starting at 6 pm. (6451 California SW)

BELLY-DANCING CLASSES: A six-week session at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center starts tonight at 6 pm – more info here. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

HIGHLAND PARK ACTION COMMITTEE: Urban wildlife and the proposed Duwamish River cleanup plan are part of tonight’s agenda – 7 pm at Highland Park Improvement Club. (12th/Holden)

POEMS AND STORYTELLING: The monthly event at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor) is tonight, 7 pm – including readings and open-mike time. Details here. (5612 California SW)

Thanks to Bob Michaels for the view of this morning’s beautiful sunrise … those clouds are just memories now, and the sun’s shining full force. The WSB West Seattle Event Calendar has the full slate of what’s up today/tonight, and here are five highlights:

BIG SOCCER GAME: Division-leading Chief Sealth International High School – also ranked #2 statewide! – hosts division #2 Ingraham at Southwest Athletic Complex, 4 pm today. (2801 SW Thistle)

FORUM FOR CAREGIVERS: Merrill Gardens (WSB sponsor) continues its series of forums for caregivers – tonight’s topic at MG-Admiral Heights is communication in multiple-caregiver situations. 6 pm; details here. (2326 California SW)

CELEBRATE LINCOLN PARK, PART 1: You’ve probably walked its paths, through the forest, along the shore – but do you know its history? Details about its wildlife? (Yes, even the squirrel photographed today by Machel Spence:

The Fauntleroy Community Association‘s two-part “Celebrate Lincoln Park” begins tonight at The Hall at Fauntleroy with an event to help you learn about the park (prelude to a Saturday event AT the park) – 6:30 to 8:30 pm, free, details here. (9131 California SW)

CRIME PREVENTION THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN: Also known as CPTED, it’s what you’ll learn about tonight if you go to the West Seattle Block Watch Captains Network‘s monthly meeting – you don’t have to be a captain, or even a Block Watch member (though BW’s are highly recommended for EVERY neighborhood), to be there. Details on the WSBWCN website; 6:30 pm at the Southwest Precinct meeting room. (Delridge/Webster)

K-5 STEM STRATEGIC PLAN: 6:45-8:15 pm tonight, current and future K-5 STEM families are welcome to come hear – and comment on – the presentation of the school’s five-year plan. (5950 Delridge Way SW)

Thanks to Gary Jones for sharing the beautiful bald-eagle view from Alki! As we take off into a new week, here’s some of what’s ahead today:

BAKERY NOUVEAU OPENS ON CAPITOL HILL: Our fellow community-collaborative news site CapitolHillSeattle.com reports that Bakery Nouveau‘s Capitol Hill location planned to open its doors at 8 this morning. (15th & John)

PET FOOD DRIVE ALL WEEK: West Seattle Montessori (WSB sponsor) is among the schools back in session today, and that means its pet-food donation drive continues. As reported here just before spring break, community members are welcome to drop off donated pet food as a contribution to the drive, too. (11215 15th SW)

HIGH-SCHOOL BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL: Go support the division-leading West Seattle High School varsity baseball team while they get a TV spotlight. From parent Greg Slader:

Monday’s game at Hiawatha featuring Metro Division leaders West Seattle 10-1 (Sound Division) and Eastside Catholic 9-2 (Mountain Division) will be on TV! Comcast Xfinity “on Demand” will be filming for a Future episode of High School Sports Seattle.

That game’s at 3:30 pm at Hiawatha Playfield (2700 California SW). Check the Metro League schedule for other games.

RUN FOR BOSTON: One week after the Boston Marathon bombings, support/tribute runs are happening around the country tonight. West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor) is organizing one that’ll start from its store at 6 pm. All welcome, no matter what your pace. (California/Charlestown)

DELRIDGE GROCERY: The monthly meeting for those involved – or interested in getting involved – with the future co-op grocery store is at 6:30 tonight, Delridge Library, with a focus on volunteer help – not just for when the store opens, but now, as preparations continue. Here’s our preview. (5423 Delridge Way SW)

FAMILY STORY TIME: Tonight you and your kids are invited to enjoy story time at High Point Library – 7 pm, free! (35th/Raymond)

Nightlife – trivia and pub quiz at multiple locations! – and more, on the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar.