From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

(WSB photo of Bubbleman in The Junction, Summer Fest Eve 2010)
SUMMER FEST EVE! ROADS CLOSE; SHOP LATE THURSDAY; BUBBLEMAN… Since West Seattle Summer Fest starts tomorrow, the main festival zone will close tonight at 6 – California between Oregon and Edmunds, Alaska between 44th and 42nd – for setup. You’re welcome to come down and roam The Junction – for most of the evening there will be lots of room to roam. As mentioned in our latest Summer Fest preview, street performances are scheduled around 7 pm – Bubbleman outside Elliott Bay Brewing, the band Diminished Men outside West 5. Plus, it’s this summer’s third edition of Shop Late Thursdays in The Junction, 6-9 pm – participating merchants are listed here.

SSCC GARDEN CENTER OPEN: Support South Seattle Community College‘s horticulture and landscape students. Plants on sale 11 am-3 pm (north end of campus, 6000 16th SW), details here..

LEARN TO JUGGLE: In nearby South Park, the SP Community Center presents Juggling Through the Ages at 1 pm, free – a hands-on chance to give juggling a try. 1 pm, 8319 8th Avenue S.

CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE VISITS ‘NICKELSVILLE’: The encampment at West Marginal Way SW and Highland Park Way SW will be the site of an official special meeting of the council’s Housing (among other things) Committee, 2:30 pm (agenda here).

BRAINDANCE: For people with Parkinson’s Disease at Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon), Thursdays through August 4th, 2:30 pm – 3:45 pm. Cost: $10 or pay what you can, free to caregivers. Class builds movement confidence and improves balance of mind and body. Exercise to promote reorganization of neurological system. Live music. Call D’vorah if you are interested at 206.932.4044 ext 2 or register with Ingrid, 206.473.0024.

FIXERS’ COLLECTIVE: Remember this report about the first meeting? Tonight, the Fixers’ Collective meets again at West Seattle Tool Library – tinker and talk! 6 pm, Youngstown Cultural Arts Center‘s northeast side (4408 Delridge Way SW).

READ THE KORAN IN 4 WEEKS: Pastor Ron Marshall of the First Lutheran Church of West Seattle has been teaching this 4 times a year since 2003 – tonight’s the first of four sessions in the next series. Call with questions or to see if there’s room; 935-6530.

(Sun run! Thanks to Eugene for sharing the photo of family members on the run @ Lincoln Park)
Yet another day of sunshine (says the forecast!). From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

TRAFFIC ALERT REMINDER: Today’s the day with the huge parade downtown – it’s not till 10 but early staging-related closures/detours might affect downtown/bound drivers. Here’s what SDOT sent around last week.

WADING POOLS: Wading pools open IF the weather is forecast for 70+ degrees (wading pool schedule here) – today, Hiawatha should be open 12-6:45 pm, Lincoln Park 11 am-8 pm.

FOR JOB SEARCHERS: Job search help and networking opportunity at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor; 5612 California Ave SW), 11 am, regular weekly meeting of “Notes From the Job Search” group.

STORY TIMES AT LOCAL LIBRARIES: Toddler Story Time at West Seattle (Admiral) Library, 10:30 am … Baby Story Time at Southwest Library, 11:30 am … Somali Story Time at High Point Library (35th/Raymond), 1:30 pm … Summer Toddler Story Time at Southwest Library, 2 pm … Family Story Time at Delridge Library (Delridge/Brandon), 7 pm.

PRODUCE-BUYERS’ CLUB: It’s the second Delridge Produce Coop Buyers’ Club ordering meeting. Come join the cooperative to order fresh produce from local farms at wholesale prices! Meet at Delridge Community Center (4501 Delridge Way SW), 7 pm.

THREE DAYS TILL WEST SEATTLE SUMMER FEST! It’s coming up THIS Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in The Junction. Our next preview is later today – till then, wander the official website to check on vendors, music, and more.

(WSB photo from a West Seattle Farmers’ Market day in June)
Day before the holiday (here’s our West Seattle 4th of July page), so while it’s fairly quiet, a few things are up:

SUNDAY SOCCER: 8 am, Delridge Playfield, the ongoing “adult/big kid” pickup soccer game, all ages/skill levels. Check out West Seattle Sunday Soccer on Facebook.

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm in The Junction (44th/Alaska) . From market manager Catherine Burke, update for today’s market:

FRESH SHEET:
Pipitone Farms w/tree-ripened “pipicots!”
Fresh WILD Sockeye and King Salmon at Loki Fish
Martin Family Orchards – Cherries
Welcome our Newest Farmers from Whidbey Is. Five Acre Farm!
Music: Pasquale Santos
Kids’ Tent: WS Helpline

You’ll also find Sustainable West Seattle and Kiwanis Club of West Seattle tabling today.

ADOPT A CAT: Friends of the Animals Foundation will have volunteers on site at Next to Nature in The Junction every Sunday in July from 11 am – 3 pm to help you find the perfect rescued feline companion.

TRAFFIC REMINDER: Venturing outside West Seattle? Citywide alerts for big events today (and through Tuesday) are listed here.

As is usually the case for holiday weekends, things are fairly quiet on the WSB West Seattle Events calendar, but we have a few things to note for those who haven’t left town:

LINCOLN PARK WORK PARTY: Friends of Lincoln Park restoration party 9 am – noon. Meet at the kiosk in the north parking lot (SW Rose St and Fauntleroy Way SW). Bring garden gloves and clippers – or, they’ll have extras.

WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Haven’t had time to check it out before? Got something to do in the home or garden? Today you can visit the West Seattle Tool Library in its new Youngstown Cultural Arts Center space (east side of main building), 9 am-2 pm

EARLY 4TH OF JULY BARBECUE: 40th anniversary celebration at Metropolitan Market (WSB sponsor, 2320 42nd SW) continues today, 11 am – 6 pm, with a pre-Independence Day barbecue.

TOUR THE LIGHTHOUSE: You can tour the Alki Point Lighthouse, 1-4 pm.

FAMILY ACTIVITIES AT THE LIBRARY: “Games Around the World,” free family program at the High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), 1 pm.

BEACH VOLLEYBALL: US Open qualifier, AVA beach volleyball on Alki, see full details here

SALSA ON ALKI: Dance on the beach, 6 – 10 pm, sponsored by Belltown Dance Studio & Century Ballroom.

OUTDOOR MOVIE: First “Movies on the Lawn” screening, presented by Unique Families of Seattle. “Flight of the Navigator” is the free outdoor movie at 9246 36th Ave SW, arrival time: 8 pm (donations welcome). Private residence so space is limited, must RSVP to attend. Email joanna@uniquefamiliesofseattle.org

‘ROCKY HORROR’: First Saturday night of the month means that at midnight, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” complete with shadow casting is presented at The Admiral Theater.

Sunshine! A few notes for today/tonight from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar (reminder, the 4th of July has its own page):

WALKER ROCK GARDEN OPEN: As noted here earlier this week, we found rare advance notice of two dates with the Walker Rock Garden – whose owners put it up for sale earlier this year – open to the public, and one is today. Now till noon, 5407 37th SW.

SWIM! Colman Pool continues its 7-day-a-week summer operations (pool schedule/other info here); looks like a wading pool day too – today’s pools would be Lincoln Park 11 am-8 pm, Delridge noon-6:45 pm

FREE HEALTH TESTS: The AARP | Walgreens Wellness Tour at High Point Walgreens (6330 35th Ave SW), noon-6 pm, offers free tests for cholesterol, blood pressure, glucose, bone density, body mass, and more.

ICE CREAM AT THE BEACH: Coastal on Alki had announced last week that the Molly Moon’s Ice Cream truck would be visiting on Fridays – but not a consistent time window; today, it’s noon-2 pm.

STORIES FROM THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD: Crooked Trails Live presents a night of music, food, wine, photos and stories from the wild side at Alki Arts (2820 Alki SW), 7-9 pm. Join Maasai warrior Kakuta Ole Maimai on a journey to Maasailand! This is a personal story of a man who grew up in a village at the base of Mt. Kilimanjaro, southern Kenya, and with community support came to the U.S. to finish college – then went home and started schools, a health center, and a clean-water pipeline.

LOCAL TEENS PERFORM: Not in West Seattle, but with young performers from West Seattle (as explained in this Hollow Earth Radio report): The band 80 or Free plays The Lab, behind the Seattle Drum School, 15th NE and NE 125th, 7 pm tonight, all ages, $5.

From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICE CENTER’S LAST DAY: Last day for West Seattle Junction Neighborhood Service Center, 4205 SW Alaska, 9 am-5 pm, closing because of midyear city-budget cuts.

LAST DAY OF OPEN REGISTRATION FOR WEST SEATTLE SOCCER CLUB: After today, no guarantee of team placement, per WSSC – more details on their website, where camp info is available too.

SAFETY DAY AT LAFARGE: 10 am-2 pm, Lafarge‘s annual Safety Day includes tours (wear long pants and closed-toe shoes) and demonstrations, plus snacks and treats for the kids. 5400 W. Marginal Way SW.

SHOP LATE THURSDAY, SECOND EDITION: It’s the second week for Shop Late Thursdays in The Junction, till 9 pm – participating merchants are listed here, including WSB sponsors JF Henry Kitchen and Tableware (closes @ 8) and Click! Design That Fits.

ART ON DISPLAY: 35th Avenue Chiropractic invites you to an event showcasing the artwork of Stephanie Savidge, 6 pm, 9455 35th SW, Suite E.

‘RACE TO NOWHERE’: The much-discussed documentary about education in America will be screened tonight at Peace Lutheran Church (8316 39th SW), 7 pm. Tickets: $10 in advance or $15 at the door, available online here.

LOG HOUSE MUSEUM West Seattle history is there for the viewing at the Log House Museum (61st/Stevens), noon-4 pm today (and all Thursdays-Sundays).

WINE IN THE WOODS: Nature Consortium fundraiser – wine, hors d’oeuvres, and music in the West Duwamish Greenbelt, 7 pm. Here’s our preview from earlier this week. RSVP ASAP, to theresa@naturec.org or 206.923.0853.

BURLESQUE: Westside Burlesque Review at Skylark Café and Club (3803 Delridge Way SW). 21 and over. Doors at 9 pm, cost is $7.

3 highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

CHANGES FOR WEST SEATTLE TRIANGLE AND BEYOND? Take a closer look at proposed changes in zoning, recommendations for the “streetscape,” and other aspects of how the West Seattle Triangle area – and some of the sites immediately west – might look in the future, before they go to the City Council in the months ahead. Open house tonight starting at 6, Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon – details here including the specifics of the proposals.

RESOURCE FAIR: Also at the Senior Center of West Seattle : The resource fair offers an array of information on options for “where to live or get assistance as you or loved ones age,” 10 am to 12:30 pm.

REMODELING/CUSTOM HOME WORKSHOP: Learn from experienced professionals about how to get started, what to expect, and the steps you can take to make your project successful. This 1½-hour event is free at Ventana Construction (WSB sponsor) HQ, 5458 California SW, 6 pm. RSVP to 206.932.3009.

(Photographed from Jack Block Park: Alaska-bound barge, outbound last Friday)
From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

OPENING DAY FOR A TERRIBLE BEAUTY: At Edmunds/California, the doors swing open to the public starting with lunch today, as this Irish restaurant/pub expands from its Renton roots to add a West Seattle location. Here’s our story from last night’s preview party.

NOTES FROM THE JOB SEARCH: Job search help and networking opportunity at C&P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor; 5612 California SW), 11 am. Whether your search for new employment is long-running, or brand new, this group – which has been meeting for two years – welcomes you to drop by and check it out.

ROTARY EXCHANGE PROGRAM: As mentioned here the other day, Rotary is recruiting non-Rotarians for the next round of its Group Study Exchange – a chance for professionals 25-40 to spend a month in Nepal, without the travel costs. Find out more when GSE participants from a different group speak to the Rotary Club of West Seattle weekly luncheon meeting today, noon at Salty’s on Alki.

SOMALI STORY TIME: Stories, rhymes, and fun, 1:30-2 pm at the High Point public library (3411 SW Raymond Street). Branch (35th/Raymond).

50+ SINGLES: Meet and mingle at Tully’s Coffee (2676 Alki Ave SW), 5 pm. Meet, then walk and talk along the Alki Beach pathway.

OPEN HOUSE: Sweet Pea Cottage Preschool of the Arts (7141 California SW inside the Unitarian Church) is hosting an open house at 5 pm. Snacks for all and art projects for the kids.

READY FOR YOUR NIGHT OUT PARTY? The night-of-a-thousand-block-parties Night Out isn’t till August 2nd, but registration is under way now, and tonight’s West Seattle Block Watch Captains Network meeting is Night Out 101, with the help of Southwest Precinct Crime Prevention Coordinator Mark Solomon. 6:30 pm at the precinct; you don’t have to be a captain or even in a Block Watch to attend.

A DRINK FOR THE KIDS: The citywide multi-location, multi-night fundraiser for youth arts venue The Vera Project is in West Seattle tonight – after 6 pm, certain beverages at West 5 benefit TVP (more details here).

SPOKE AND FOOD: Bike to dinner tonight at Chaco Canyon Organic Café (38th/Alaska) or Proletariat Pizza (downtown White Center) – both of which have ample bike parking! – where, as part of this citywide benefit, part of the proceeds benefit the Seattle Tilth Children’s Garden program.

WHITE ROSE RECEPTION: West Seattle Hi-Yu 2011 White Rose Reception at Fauntleroy UCC Church (9140 California Ave SW), 7 pm. This event is for women only and is a celebration of past and present Hi-Yu royalty and candidates. All are invited. Come and share Hi-Yu memories or learn about our community festival. Past royalty are encouraged to wear or bring their tiaras, and memory scrapbooks. Check for ticket availability: 206-935-6517, or wshiyu@yahoo.com.

NAVIGATING THE WATERS OF PARENTHOOD – AT THE BEACH: Parenting workshop with Bill Dean, 7 pm, Alki Arts, 2820 Alki Ave SW.

BOOK RELEASE PARTY:West Seattle author Caryl Sherpa reads from her debut memoir, “I TASTE FIRE, EARTH, RAIN: Elements of a Life with a Sherpa.” The book will be available for the first time at the party at The Kenney‘s Community Room (7125 Fauntleroy Way SW), doors open at 7 pm, the program begins at 7:30 pm, and a book signing and afterparty will follow.

(Photo courtesy Brad Lovejoy – he believes it’s a bumblebee atop a sea holly bloom – click photo for larger view)
One week till the 4th of July! The holiday has its own WSB page now. That aside, from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar for today/tonight:

LA LECHE LEAGUE OF WEST SEATTLE: LLL’s monthly meeting at 10:30 am, Westside Unitarian Universalist Church (7141 California SW). All breastfeeding mothers, and mothers-to-be interested in breastfeeding, are welcome, as are babies. We also welcome mom’s partner or support person to join her at the meeting. Park in the parking lot and follow the signs upstairs. Lost? Call 206 353 9334.

PIZZERIA 22 OPENING NIGHT: The wood-fired pizzeria officially opens for business at 4 pm, SW College east of California. Here’s our report from last Friday’s preview party. (P.S. Pizzeria 22 is all ages.)

MOTEL OPEN HOUSE: We’ve been reporting on the renovation plan since it was first announced last December. Now you can see the made-over 36th/Alaska motel, The Grove/West Seattle Inn, for yourself, during an open house 4-7 pm today. Treats by Husky Deli and Pagliacci Pizza. Here’s our sneak-peek story from last week.

DELRIDGE PROJECT MEETING: Information meeting about the DESC proposal for permanently housing 75 homeless people in a new Delridge apartment complex, 6 pm, Delridge Library. Here’s a preview from last night including a link to our original in-depth story 2 weeks ago.

FAMILY STORY TIME: At High Point Library (35th/Raymond) – songs, rhymes, games, stories with the children’s librarian.

KARAOKE: Sing it with Kelli at Skylark Café and Club (WSB sponsor), 9 pm.

The Viaduct’s back open today, but citywide, some big events are on tap – here’s that roundup – but as usual, there’s a stellar slate here in West Seattle – from the WSB Events calendar:

NORTHWEST PADDLING FESTIVAL, DAY 2: Pay the admission fee for instruction (including quiet corners like the one we photographed above) and on-the-water demos, or wander around the vendor booths and see the just-opened Jack Block Park shoreline (plus its amazing overlooks). 9 am-5 pm, full festival-events schedule here.

RADIO COMPETITION: If you haven’t seen the ham-radio operators in the southeast field at South Seattle Community College – their round-the-clock competition (details here) wraps up at noon.

WADING POOL! The Lincoln Park wading pool should open for the season since the weather is forecast for 70+ degrees (wading pool schedule here).

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: Market management sent word last night that they’re expecting live music by Farm Report,, Panzanella (bread salad), and freshness on sale including strawberries, cherries, artichokes, fava beans, fresh salmon, morel & porcini mushrooms, and “almost…apricots!” 10 am-2 pm at 44th/Alaska in The Junction.

BREAST CANCER FUNDRAISER YARD SALE: Check the WSB Forums’ Freebies/Deals/Sales section for yard sales today; one that we know of is at 2644 Walnut SW, 9 am-4 pm, raising money for a local team going to the Susan G. Komen 3Day.

FOOTBALL AND CHEER SIGNUPS: SWAC Cougars (WSB sponsor) have another signup event today, 11 am-2 pm at Roxbury Safeway.

TWO TO VISIT ON ALKI: If you go to the beach, there’s more to do than laze on the sand. Log House Museum (61st/Stevens) is open noon-4 pm; Alki Point Lighthouse is open 1 pm-4 pm.

ATHLETES IN ACTION: Pacific Northwest Track and Field Junior Olympics at Southwest Athletic Complex (details on the organization’s website)

BOOK SIGNING: Metropolitan Market (WSB sponsor)’s 40th anniversary celebration continues with a 4-6 pm book signing at the Admiral store today, Amy Pennington with her cookbook “Urban Pantry.”

Big day on the peninsula, and we should see some sun! From the WSB West Seattle Events page, the highlights:

MORGAN JUNCTION COMMUNITY FESTIVAL: One day, big fun! Morgan Community Association presents this popular free festival, 10:30 am-7 pm in and around Morgan Junction Park (6413 California SW) – here’s our most recent update including the final entertainment lineup (Bubbleman at 11:15!). “Bite of Morgan” free-food-sample booklets (participants here) are first come, first served, at the fair-info booth at the park.

NORTHWEST PADDLING FESTIVAL: First of two days for the first-ever edition of this celebration on the water and on the shore (newly opened as of last night!) at Jack Block Park off Harbor Avenue SW. Today’s full schedule is here, including two races in the early afternoon. For workshops and demos, there’s an admission fee; to walk around and look at vendors, free.

RECOVERY GARDEN CLEANUP PARTY: Volunteer help is welcome at Brandon and 26th Ave SW, 10 am – noon. This small park within North Delridge’s Cottage Grove Park honors those on the path of healing from substance abuse. Join a unique partnership with a Seattle treatment center to restore one of Delridge’s great corners.

SHREDDING AND E-CYCLING: Windermere Fauntleroy (6505 California SW) is not only part of the Morgan Junction Community Festival, it’s also holding a shredding/electronics recycling event in its back parking lot (south of Morgan Junction Starbucks), 10 am-1 pm. (They’re also Bite of Morgan participants if you get a coupon book at the festival – Otter Pops.)

HAM RADIO ENTHUSIASTS IN ACTION: In the southeast field at South Seattle Community College, Seattle ham-radio operators will show off everything from new tech to historic Morse code as they compete in a contest; full details here.

ALKI BIKE TOUR:4th annual Historic Alki Bike Tour, presented by the Southwest Seattle Historical Society. Meet at the Log House Museum, 61st and Stevens. $7 for non-members, $5 for museum members. Facebook event page here.

ON THE RUN: Pacific Northwest Track and Field Junior Olympics at Southwest Athletic Complex (details on the organization’s website) – remember that the Denny International Middle School move is under way, so street parking west of the stadium is limited.

REAL ESTATE MARKET UPDATE: By most accounts, things are looking up. Join an expert seminar hosted by Merrill Gardens-West Seattle (WSB sponsor) at 11 am, including projections on the local real-estate market. Complimentary lunch after the seminar; call (206) 932-5480 to see if there’s room.

HANDS ACROSS THE SAND: 2nd annual demonstration of environmental concern at Alki Beach, noon, east of Bathhouse.

STUFF THE BUS DIAPER DRIVE KICKOFF – WITH RECESS MONKEY: Concert by Recess Monkey at WestSide Baby‘s 14th SW donation facility, 1 pm, bring diapers! It’s the official kickoff to WestSide Baby’s annual Stuff the Bus summertime diaper drive; details here.

DANCE ON THE SAND: If the weather doesn’t go south, there’s Salsa on Alki Beach, 6 – 10 pm.

(WSB photo from Hiawatha Playfield on Thursday: Serevi Rugby‘s 1st beginners’ camp)
A fairly low-key Friday – time to gear up for tomorrow (hope to see you at the Morgan Junction Community Festival!) – but you do have some options today/tonight. From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

FREE PUBLIC SWIM: Southwest Pool invites you to the Summer Kickoff Swim, free for all ages, 4:30-5:30 pm – first 125 swimmers get into the pool (and note that kids under 6 must have an adult in the pool with them). Penny dive and races for prizes! 2801 SW Thistle.

BEACH REOPENS TO THE PUBLIC: After decades, the beach at what is now Jack Block Park reopens to the public – as a prelude to this weekend’s Northwest Paddling Festival, which will be held on and around the beach. Tonight’s dedication events start at 5 pm, ribbon cutting and tribal canoe launch at 6.

WINE TASTING IN THE JUNCTION: Friday night tasting at Bin 41, 6-7:30 pm, featuring Poppie Mantone from Syncline Winery in the Columbia Gorge area.

VAUDEVILLE AT KENYON HALL: From a silent-movie short to comedy juggling to musical memories, you’re invited to Kenyon Hall(7904 35th Ave SW) for tonight’s entertainment, which starts at 7:30 pm. Root-beer floats are $1! Admission is $12 row seating/$14 reserved table seating/discounts for seniors and kids, preschoolers free. E-mail kenyonhall@earthlink.net ASAP for a reservation.

FRIDAY NIGHT SKATE: Get your summer rolling at Alki Community Center – your skates or theirs, $3/person, 6:45-8:45 pm.

(Nucor, photographed from West Seattle Corporate Center)
Summer REALLY starts this afternoon, when Seattle Public Schools middle- and high-school students get out for the year. Here’s more from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

ART AT SSCC: Workshop and opening reception for artist Dahlia Elsayed at the South Seattle Community College Art Gallery (Jerry Brockey Student Center, 6000 16th SW). Workshop with the artist: 12 – 2 pm, reception 2 – 4 pm. More info on the Art Gallery website.

SEREVI RUGBY INTRODUCTORY CAMP: 4 pm at Hiawatha Playfield – details here.

FIRST ‘SHOP LATE THURSDAY’: The West Seattle Junction Association lists 19 merchants as participating as “Shop Late Thursdays in The Junction” begins tonight, including WSB sponsor Click! Design That Fits. Shop till 9 pm.

MAYOR’S TOWN HALL: Mayor McGinn awaits your Q/A at a Town Hall meeting at Hiawatha Community Center (2700 California SW), 5:30 pm community info fair, 6;30 pm youth performance, 6:40 pm Q/A with mayor/staffers, more details in our preview from last night.

BOOK SIGNING: 40th anniversary celebration continues at Metropolitan Market-Admiral (WSB sponsor, 2320 42nd Ave SW), 6:30 – 8:30 pm, Fit By Nature book signing with John Colver

CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES @ WSDW: Evening meeting for the West Seattle Democratic Women, 7 pm at the West Seattle Golf Course, with Seattle City Council Position 1 candidates Jean Godden, Maurice Classen, Bobby Forch, and Michael Taylor-Judd, and Position 9 candidates Sally Clark and Dian Ferguson. If you have a question or want to make a reservation, please contact WSDW ASAP at (206) 935-3216 or wsdwomen@yahoo.com.

SEATTLE FOUNDATION “GIVE BIG” DONATION EVENT: More than a few local nonprofits are part of a one-day donation drive through the Seattle Foundation, which is offering some matching/stretching donations for whatever you give between 7 am and midnight today. The full list is here – for a donation to qualify, you have to make it through your chosen recipient’s page on that site. We’ll have an update later with a full breakout on local participants.

Five quick mentions (sorry, later than usual as we were caught up in following up on this):

HIGHLAND PARK ACTION COMMITTEE: Monthly meeting, 7 pm, HP Improvement Club (12th/Holden). Speakers scheduled to talk about West Seattle Tool Library, Community Orchard of West Seattle, and September’s Delridge Day festival.

BITE AT THE POINT: All are invited to Bite at the Point, a free community potluck and family-fun event at High Point Community Center. Details here; 6-7:30 pm.

PEPS ORIENTATION AT BRIGHT HORIZONS: Interested in PEPS – the Program for Early Parent Support? Just got word that there’s an orientation tonight for people who aren’t signed up yet or who signed up for a group that’s not meeting yet. The meeting’s at Bright Horizons (WSB sponsor), 38th/Alaska, 7 pm.

OPEN MIKE: No featured readers this time – all welcome to the monthly Poetry Bridge gathering at 7 pm at C & P Coffee, 5612 California SW, including poets, story tellers, and musicians with a poetic message.

BACKYARD COTTAGES: Free one-hour workshop on building a backyard cottage or “accessory dwelling unit” put on by Ncompass Cottage Company (WSB sponsor), 7 pm at Community School of West Seattle (9450 22nd SW) at 7 pm. Check to see if there’s room – contact Stefan at 206-933-5961 or stefan@ncompass-llc.com.

Summer vacation is hours away for elementary and K-8 students in Seattle Public Schools – it’s their last day (middle/high schoolers attend till Thursday). That’s just part of what’s on the WSB West Seattle Events calendar for today, as we say goodbye to spring:

SUMMER ARRIVES: Summer solstice arrives at 10:16 am our time – then tonight at 8:45 pm, go to Solstice Park to watch summer-solstice sunset (9:11 pm) with Solar System Ambassador Alice Enevoldsen (as explained here).

PREPAREDNESS, THE NEXT STEP: Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon) presents Personal Preparedness beyond 3-day kits! 12:15 – 1:15 pm. What do you do on day 4, day 5, day 6, day 10. . . when there is no power for weeks. Prepare yourselves, your family, as best you can, to provide for your basic needs, safety, comfort and well-being for weeks!

SOMALI STORY TIME: It is Somali Story Time, 1:30-2 pm at the High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond) Branch! Bring your children to enjoy stories, rhymes, and fun.

CRUISE PRESENTATION: Join AAA Travel and discover Europe on a river cruise! Learn about the various itineraries and why river cruising is becoming more and more popular. 6 pm at Merrill Gardens-West Seattle (WSB sponsor; 4611 35th Avenue SW) – RSVP to 206.933.4106. Members and nonmembers are welcome!

OUT-OF-SCHOOL BASH: For ages 5-17, 6 pm, High Point Community Center (6920 34th SW) (from the spring brochure)

CRIME PREVENTION COUNCIL: West Seattle Crime Prevention Council meets, Southwest Precinct (Delridge/Webster). Guests: Renee Hopkins, Director of the Seattle Police Foundation, which sponsors many programs including the SPD Explorer Program, which also will be explained by Sgt. Adrian Diaz.

NEW PRODUCE BUYERS’ CLUB: Delridge Produce Cooperative Buyers’ Club first meeting, Delridge Community Center, 7 pm (more info here)

BELLY DANCING: Alauda belly dance showcase at Skylark Café and Club, 7:30 pm

MORE NIGHTLIFE: Rock music trivia at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 8 pm … At Mac’s Triangle Pub at the south end of Delridge, open-mike night starting at 8 pm.

(From last night’s Art Car show at Feedback Lounge – more pix here)
The heart of summer is rushing this way – two weeks till the 4th of July; West Seattle Summer Fest starts two weeks from Friday … But first, a few highlights for today, from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

LAST WEEK BEGINS FOR SEATTLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS: Elementary and K-8 schools’ final day is tomorrow; middle and high schools’ final day is Thursday.

AFTERNOON BOOK GROUP: “The Moviegoer” by Walker Percy is this month’s book for the afternoon group at Southwest Library, which meets today, 2 pm.

FULL TILT ICE CREAM ANNIVERSARY, MATCHING DONATIONS: In honor of its 3rd anniversary, Full Tilt Ice Cream donates matching ice cream to the White Center Food Bank for everything bought today. They’re now open Mondays (2 pm-10 pm); here’s our story from last night.

SUSTAINABLE WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY FORUM: That’s tonight’s topic, , as previewed here last night, with participants including Greg Whittaker of Alki Kayak Tours and Mountain to Sound Outfitters, and Patti Mullen of the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce, 7-9 pm at Senior Center of West Seattle (California/Oregon).

FAMILY STORY TIME: The High Point Library (35th/Raymond) has a Family Story Time on Mondays at 7 pm! All families are welcome to enjoy songs, rhymes, games, and books with the children’s librarian.

MONDAY NIGHTLIFE: Bingo at Alki UCC church – doors open at 5:30 pm, games start at 6:30 pm (read more here) … Trivia with Tom Hutyler at Christo’s on Alki, 7 pm … Karaoke with Kelli at Skylark Café and Club (WSB sponsor), 9 pm

(By T_ravtyler, from the WSB Flickr group pool)
Happy Father’s Day! From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

KICK IT WITH DAD: The West Seattle adult/big kid soccer pickup game every Sunday morning is at Delridge Playfield (4501 Delridge Way). Men and women of all ages and skill levels are welcome! 8 am

GRILLING AND FREE ICE CREAM AT THE FARMERS’ MARKET: Get ready for Summer! Celebrate Father’s Day at the West Seattle Farmers Market (44th/Alaska in The Junction), 10 am – 2 pm. Chef Jacob Wiegner of Blackboard Bistro will demonstrate tips for grilling summer veggies, fruits and of course, meats, all available locally and sustainably from market farmers. There will be a FREE drawing for a free Weber grill! Anyone who shops the market on Father’s Day can enter to win at the market info tent. PLUS: free ice-cream treats for shoppers, courtesy of Husky Deli and local berry farmers in honor of Father’s Day. Full details here.

BREAST-CANCER-FIGHTING CAR WASH: Car wash with proceeds to be donated to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center for Climb to Fight Breast Cancer. Diana will be traveling to Tanzania in August to climb Kilimanjaro. The carwash will run from 10 am until 6 pm at Alki Auto Repair, 2504 Alki Avenue SW. More details here.

GET DAD A TREAT, DO A GOOD DEED: Bake sale and homemade crafts sale for Power of Hope, a nonprofit organization focusing on youth empowerment through arts. All proceeds go to camp tuition for underprivileged youth. Bake sale will be held 10 AM-3 PM in The Junction- outside the Key Bank. Homemade delicacies will include traditional and unique goodies, diabetic-friendly cookies, plus vegan and gluten-free treats! Fresh Starbucks coffee available too. Handmade crafts, mostly made by the youth, are all one of a kind and as unique as the kids we serve.

SEE GLASS ART AS IT’S BEING MADE: Father’s Day Glass Jellyfish Demo with guest artist Richard Lowrie at Avalon Glassworks (2914 SW Avalon Way), 11 am – 5 pm. The public is invited to watch live glass blowing demonstrations throughout the day at Avalon Glassworks, when Lowrie will sculpt these seemingly weightless forms out of hot glass. Meet the artist, purchase signed work, and watch the process. For more info see their website or call 206-937-6369.

SWIM WITH DAD: Colman Pool continues its 7-day-a-week summer operations – schedule and other info here.

TAKE DAD TO BROWSE TOOLS: West Seattle Tool Library is open in its new Youngstown Cultural Arts Center space (east side of main building) 1-5 pm

RED CEDAR OPEN CIRCLE: Songs, Dances, Teachings of the Pacific NW Coast at the Duwamish Longhouse, 4705 W. Marginal Way SW, free. Traditional teachings passed down by Native Elders are shared with all people by teacher, Whis.tem.men.knee, Johnny Moses of Puget Sound First Peoples. All welcome. Bring your drum. 1-3 pm

DAD NEEDS A NEW PET, RIGHT? West Seattle’s only animal shelter, Kitty Harbor (3422 Harbor Ave SW), is open 2 – 6 pm.

ART CARS IN MORGAN JUNCTION: Direct from the Fremont Fair, rain or shine, dozens of “art cars” will converge on the lot adjacent to Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) and Zeeks Pizza, California/Fauntleroy, 7 pm. Free!

LIVE MUSIC: Jamtime, 1-4 pm at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 5612 California SW … Triple bill for all-ages at Skylark Café and Club, 7 pm, details here.

From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

WORK PARTY WITH A VIEW: Seacrest Garden work party: Help maintain the beautiful native-plant garden on the shore of Elliott Bay! Weeds need to be pulled and mulch needs to be spread. All tools and gloves will be provided, plus some snacks and beverages to keep you fueled up! Now till noon, 1660 Harbor SW.

BRIGHT HORIZONS’ WEST SEATTLE CELEBRATION: The new child-care center at Link (like BH, a WSB sponsor) celebrates with family fun including a performance by The Not-Its at noon. Full schedule here. 38th/Alaska (map).

IN CASE YOU SEE A LOT OF HELICOPTERS… (Or hear them, given the weather …) The nearby Museum of Flight is having helicopters fly in for today’s American Heroes Air Show, gates open at 10 am. See full story here

SWAC SIGNUPS: SWAC Football/Cheer (WSB sponsor) registration at Roxbury Safeway, 11 am-2 pm, ages 7-14 welcome for the season starting with August practices.

LUNCH FOR A GOOD CAUSE: Fundraising barbecue at West Seattle Thriftway with proceeds to benefit Pencil Me In For Kids, starts 11 am.

TOUR THE LOG HOUSE MUSEUM: Noon-4 pm, today and every Thursday-Saturday, 61st/Stevens (more info here).

SWIM OUTDOORS, EVERY DAY TILL FALL: Colman Pool starts its 7-day-a-week summer operations today.

USO FUNDRAISER: USO Fundraiser and the presentation “Eleanor Roosevelt, Her Life and Times,” Merrill Gardens at Admiral Heights (2326 California Ave SW). 12 – 4 pm. Cost is $10. Lunch served 12 – 1 pm, raffle 1:30 PM, and featured presentation at 2:30 pm. RSVP to 206.938.3964.

VOLUNTEER AT THE CHINESE GARDEN: Seattle Chinese Garden is having a Volunteer Orientation from 1 – 4 pm. It starts with a guided tour which meets in the Garden’s entry court. Volunteers are needed to help with gardening, staffing the Discovery Center, and working in the office. For more information, please see this webpage or call the office at 206.934.5219.

BAKE/CRAFT SALE: Bake sale and homemade crafts sale for Power of Hope, a non-profit organization focusing on youth empowerment through arts. All proceeds go to camp tuition for underprivileged youth. Bake sale will be held Saturday, June 18th 1:30PM-6PM and Sunday June 19th from 10 AM-3 PM at the West Seattle junction- outside the Key Bank @ 4701 California Avenue Southwest. Delicious homemade delicacies will include traditional and unique goodies, diabetic friendly cookies, plus vegan and gluten free treats!

TOUR NICKELSVILLE: Nickelsville potluck/open house, organized by members of the WSB Forums, open house 2-6 pm, potluck at 5 pm (more details here), West Marginal Way/Highland Park Way

WSLL CELEBRATION: West Seattle Little League ribbon-cutting ceremony formally celebrating their new snack shack. The dedication will be held at 3 pm at Bar-S Playfield. Read WSB story here

BINGO TO FIGHT BREAST CANCER: The Half Racks team is holding a Bingo For Boobs fundraiser to help raise money for the Susan G. Komen 3-day Cancer Walk. Each team member has to raise $2,300. The fundraiser will be at the West Seattle Senior Center on Saturday, June 18th. The doors open at 6 pm and bingo starts at 7 pm. We will have food and drinks available, and tickets are $20 each and include a free dauber!

DANCE ON THE SAND: Salsa on Alki Beach, 6-10 pm. Sponsored by BelltownDanceStudio & Century Ballroom.

WHITE CENTER ART WALK – WITH A FILM FESTIVAL! Short films are part of tonight’s White Center Art Walk, 6-9 pm – details, venues, artists here

A few highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

LOW-TIDE QUESTIONS ANSWERED: 12:36 pm, the tide is out to -2.6, and won’t be that low again till late October (and that’ll be a late-night low-tide). Again today, Seattle Aquarium volunteer beach naturalists will be at Lincoln Park and South Alki to assist with low-tide explorers (here’s the full schedule)

NEW RESTAURANT ADDS LUNCH: After a week in “soft open” mode, Bang Bar in The Junction is scheduled to add lunch today, 11 am.

TAKE A HIKE: Free eco-hike presented by the Nature Consortium, meet 14th/Holly, 1 pm

SENIOR DANCE: Dance for people 50+ (singles and couples) at Delridge Community Center, 4501 Delridge Way SW, 1:30-3:30 pm. Dance or listen to the music of Lauren Petrie. $3.

BOOK SIGNING: As part of the 40th anniversary celebration at Metropolitan Market (WSB sponsor), the Admiral store (2320 42nd SW) has Becky Selengut signing her seafood book, 4 – 6 pm

CHIEF SEALTH GRADUATION: Commencement for Chief Sealth International High School Class of 2011, 5 pm. Memorial Field (Seattle Center, Downtown). More info on school website.

STORYTELLING: Storytelling event at the White Center Cultural Center (9421 18th SW), 5:30 pm – Indonesian storytelling by Diakonda Gurning.

DIAPER DRIVE AND POKER: Admiral Pub event at 6:30 pm – poker and diaper donations! Details in this WSB Forums post.

FREE MOVIE IN HIGHLAND PARK: Doors open at 6:30 pm, movie at 7 pm. Free admission, Highland Park Improvement Club (12th and Holden). They will be selling snacks and nonalcoholic drinks, and adults can bring their beverages of choice. There will be folding chairs for seating, or feel free to bring blankets and pillows or non-floor-scratching chairs. Movie hint: This animated superdog has a rude awakening when he strays off his movie set into the real world.

LATE-NIGHT END OF SCHOOL ICE CREAM PARTY: Free sundae-making party at High Point Community Center for teens, plus games, 7 pm-midnight.

CONCERT: Composer, guitarist and singer Jim Scott is coming to Westside UU to perform at Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation (7141 California SW), 7 pm. Jim is most well-known for being a long-time member of the Paul Winter Consort, a group known for their “earth music”, a blend of jazz and world music. TIcket info or questions: 206-935-0418 or office@wsuu.org.

(Wednesday night moon photo by Bill Bacon)
It’s a time of extremes – the full moon, and the tides it brings:

(Wednesday midday photo of Seacrest Pier pilings by Patrick Sand)
Again today, Seattle Aquarium beach naturalists will be at Lincoln Park and South Alki to assist with low-tide explorers. Low tide is -3.0 at 11:54 am. Also from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

CONGRATULATIONS, SSCC CLASS OF 2011: South Seattle Community College commencement, 2:30 pm Benaroya Hall downtown.

USO BENEFIT: Hosted by Merrill Gardens (WSB sponsor, 4611 35th Avenue SW). This benefit event is to support our troops through our local U.S.O. Attendees will enjoy dinner between 4:30 and 6:30 p.m. with entertainment provided by the West Seattle Big Band from 7 – 8 pm. Active and inactive service members will be on hand to share their experiences and memorabilia. Minimum donation is $10 per attendee. Call 206-932-5480 to RSVP.

PUBLIC MEETING ON DUWAMISH RIVER CLEANUP SITE: Tonight the EPA is hosting a meeting to ask for public comments on the cleanup of the polluted area known as Jorgensen Forge (adjacent to Boeing Plant 2). Doors open 6, public comment starts at 8, South Seattle Community College Georgetown Campus, details and background here

COMMUNITY CENTERS’ FUTURE: The second of two city meetings – not in West Seattle, but the official one for the “south” side of the city including WS – is tonight, 7 pm. Here’s our preview from last night.

ALKI COMMUNITY COUNCIL: ACC’s monthly meeting, 7 pm, Alki UCC (6112 SW Hinds), agenda details here.

WSHS MUSIC: West Seattle High School Music Department presents the 2011 Spring Concert at the WSHS theater at 7 pm, admission is free! Donations appreciated.

BENEFIT SHOW AT THE BRIDGE: The Gifted Program performs tonight at 8:30 at The Bridge in West Seattle, as a fundraiser to recover from a recent fire in Tukwila that destroyed some of the band’s equipment. More details on this Facebook event page.

(From this month’s first low-low tide, by Stephen Elser)
From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

LOWEST TIDE OF THE ‘SUMMER’: Yes, we use that last word loosely … But the tide is out, no matter what the weather. 11:10 this morning, -3.1 (here’s the chart). On the flip side, the high tide is way up there too – 12.1 at 6:46 pm. Planning on exploring the revealed beach this midday? Volunteer Seattle Aquarium naturalists are on the Lincoln Park and south-of-Alki-Point Beaches 10 am-2 pm.

BENEFITS FOR VETERANS/SURVIVING SPOUSES: See how veterans or surviving spouses can qualify for a tax-free pension; Sean Sullivan and Kevin Sullivan will give a presentation covering long-term-care benefits. Free; RSVP to (206) 938-3964. 3-4 pm, Merrill Gardens at Admiral Heights (WSB sponsor; 2326 California SW).

SUMMER COUNTDOWN PARTY FOR TEENS: Celebrate the last days of school before summer with an outdoor BBQ at Hiawatha Community Center (2700 California SW). Music, dodgeball competition, food, prizes, starts at 2:30 pm.

FAREWELL, MR. WHALEN: Schmitz Park Elementary School families past and present are invited to the SP cafeteria 5:30 p.m. until 7:00 pm to bid teacher Japhy Whalen farewell (here’s our original coverage).

JUNCTION DEVELOPMENT: Community meeting about Oregon 42 development changes (latest WSB coverage here), 6 pm, Senior Center of West Seattle (California/Oregon).

FREE WORKSHOP: Savvy Seattle Women workshop on hiring a pro, 6 pm, Prudential NW Realty offices at Jefferson Square, details here.

SEATTLE SCHOOL BOARD: Not in West Seattle but of interest citywide, 6 pm at district HQ in SODO (here’s the agenda).

LOWMAN BRAU’S DEBUT: Premiere parties for Löwman Bräu, “West Seattle’s beer,” multiple venues, starting at 7 pm – full list of venues here, and which nonprofits are benefiting, here.

TONIGHT’S GRADUATION: Middle College High School commencement ceremony at South Seattle Community College‘s Brockey Center, 7 pm

DELRIDGE DISTRICT COUNCIL: The council meets at Youngstown Arts Center, 6 pm strategic discussion, 7 pm meeting, with topics including an Alaskan Way Viaduct construction briefing and the just-announced proposal for a 75-unit complex to provide permanent housing for mentally ill homeless people (WSB coverage here).

In honor of Flag Day, we start off with a photo from the American Legion Post 160 Memorial Day commemoration at Forest Lawn (WSB sponsor) two weeks ago (might substitute a new flag photo later). Here’s what else is happening, from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

LOW TIDE AND EXPERT EXPLANATION: 10:25 this morning, the tide will recede to -2.9, the first of three days with the lowest tides of the summer. From 10 am-1 pm, Seattle Aquarium volunteer beach naturalists will be at Lincoln Park and south of Alki Point to assist with low-tide explorers (here’s the full schedule)

WSHS GRADUATION TONIGHT: West Seattle High School‘s grads get their diplomas tonight, 5 pm, at Memorial Stadium (5th and Harrison downtown).

SANISLO POTLUCK: At Sanislo Elementary School, 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm: Around the World Potluck and Game Night: Bring a dish from your family’s culture to share. There will be games, raffles, and a free book given to every child. If the weather is nice, we will be outdoors!

DENNY SCHOOL SITE PROJECT MEETING: The community meeting regarding Denny demolition and sports-facilities (etc.) construction is tonight at 6 pm, Southwest Community Center (details here).

COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION MEETINGS TONIGHT: Admiral Neighborhood Association meeting, Admiral Church lower-level meeting room, 7 pm (as previewed here) … Fauntleroy Community Association board meets 7 pm at the schoolhouse.

TRIVIA TONIGHT: Rock music trivia every Tuesday night at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 8 pm (and are you ready for tomorrow night’s Lowman Brau debut?)

(Photo by Stephen Elser from last round of low tides earlier this month)
We’ll see low-low tides all week – -2.2 today at 9:38 am, but it’ll be lower in a few days. Meantime, first day of the last full week of school for Seattle Public Schools students; we’re also in the last full week of spring – since summer arrives a week from tomorrow. But first, on with today. From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

NORTH DELRIDGE NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL: NDNC meets at 6:30 pm, NOT the usual location – here’s the meeting announcement:

Join us as we head into our new format for summer meetings – we’re taking NDNC outside! We will be holding our monthly meeting in a different Delridge park each month this summer, weather permitting. (Tonight) Greg Davis Park at Brandon and 26th, less than a block away from the library. If it rains, we’ll use our regularly scheduled library conference room instead. Our special guests on Monday will be the guys from Red Star Urban Farms, giving us a tutorial on how to raise your own backyard chickens in Seattle.

(added) PIGEON POINT NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL: Also meeting tonight – 6 pm, Pathfinder K-8 school cafeteria.

RACE TO NOWHERE: The documentary critiquing the education system and sparking discussions on how to change it will be screened twice today/tonight in the Arbor Heights Elementary library, sponsored by the Arbor Heights PTSA, with discussion afterward. 3:30-5:30 pm with child care provided, ticket info here; 6:30-8:30 pm, ticket info here. Organizers are also launching the online discussion group West Seattle Education Advocates, to continue the dialogue.

LIVING GLUTEN-FREE: Living Gluten-Free. Special event all day at Pharmaca Integrative Pharmacy/West Seattle (WSB sponsor); stop in and talk with a naturopathic doctor.

NIGHTLIFE: Trivia with Tom Hutyler at Christo’s on Alki, 7 pm … Karaoke with Kelli at Skylark Café and Club (WSB sponsor), 9 pm