(Photo by Machel Spence)
Five highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

GOLF WITH YOUR FELLOW COUGS: 8th annual King County Cougar Open at West Seattle Golf Course (4470 35th SW). Starting at noon, the WSU Alumni Association invites you to share an afternoon of fun with fellow Cougars. Players of all skill levels are encouraged to participate. Sign up by yourself or with friends. Registration info here.

AT THE LONGHOUSE – FREE! Johnny Moses presents Medicine Songs of the Pacific NW at Duwamish Longhouse (7405 W Marginal Way SW), 6:30-8:00 pm. Johnny Moses is a noted native NW storyteller and introduces two new CDs that preserve NW Salish Culture for future generations. Free event!

‘FLAVOR’: 7 pm at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, “a unique night out showcasing the music and art of immigrants, to benefit OneAmerica and our community.” Tickets: $20, available online (includes snacks). Featured Artists: Music by Abyssinian Creole, Owuor Arunga, The Heartfelts, and The Seattle Fandango Project; comedian Solomon Georgio; Poet, Rapper and Cultural Carrier dakóta; photography by Carina A. del Rosario, Geo of Blue Scholars, Thig Nat of The Physics; jewelry by Marissa Esteban.

SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK, FREE! 7 pm at Camp Long, GreenStage‘s 23rd season of free Shakespeare in the Park presents “Antony and Cleopatra”, directed by Patrick Bentley. Follow the crowds through the woods to the open field by the climbing rock.

SWEET, SWEET MUSIC: 7:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW): Sarah Ackers, Betsy Boyer, and Bronwyn Edwards will entertain with soulful, folksy, bluesy music for all. $5/person or $15/family at the door; includes dessert.

Your ballot for the August 16th election could arrive as early as today, since King County Elections had planned to mail ballots yesterday. That makes the timing perfect for tonight’s West Seattle Candidates’ Forum, one of several big events from the WSB Events calendar:

SEATTLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS SIGNUPS: Community Resources on Wheels comes to West Seattle again today to help parents register their children for school and get information on a variety of Seattle-area resources for families. The bus will visit from 11 am – 2 pm at High Point Neighborhood House, 6400 Sylvan Way. Parents and caregivers who plan to enroll their student in school should bring the following: Birth Certificate (K-1st grade only); immunization information; current proof of Seattle residence (utility bills, lease, DSHS; shelter/transitional housing letter); admission form (parents can fill out in advance at seattleschools.org or it will be available on the bus) and photo ID of parent/guardian. For more information, visit the website or call the SPS Service Center at 206-252-0760.

WS DEMOCRATIC WOMEN: Warm up for tonight’s forum with the West Seattle Democratic Women’s lunch meeting at the West Seattle Golf Course (4470 35th SW). The Pre-Meeting Discussion Group meets from 10:30-11:15 am; subject is “How to have good quality of life in this time of economic stress and deficits?”. Registration is from 11:15-11:30 am with the Meeting/Program from 11:30 am – 1 pm. County Councilmember Joe McDermott and Port of Seattle Commissioner Gael Tarleton, along with representatives from both sides of Seattle Referendum #1. Endorsements will then be considered by the membership for all remaining un-endorsed applicable candidate positions and issues. Members $12; non-members $15 or a minimum fee of $5 which includes coffee/tea & dessert. If you have a question or wish to make a reservation, please contact WSDW (206.935.3216 or wsdwomen@yahoo.com) ASAP. For more specific and up-to-date information, see WSDW’s website.

VOICE YOUR VIEWS! West Seattle Candidates’ Forum at South Seattle Community College’s Brockey Center. Starts with ice cream social (donations to West Seattle Food Bank) at 6:30 pm; forum at 7:30 pm. Full details here.

SUMMER CONCERTS AT HIAWATHA: First concert tonight! 6:30 pm on Hiawatha’s east lawn (photo above from a past-season concert), featuring the Gothard Sisters. Free; bring your own blankets/chairs. More details on the Admiral Neighborhood Association website.

DESIGN REVIEW TIMES TWO: Southwest Design Review Board meeting for two projects, Nova and an Avalon Way proposal, 6:30 pm – 8 pm at Senior Center of West Seattle, details here

ZERO TO 13.1: West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor) hosts an Information Night for its next Couch-to-Half-Marathon training session, getting ready for the Amica Seattle half-marathon in November. 7 pm (3727 California SW).

BRITISH LEGENDS AT KENYON HALL: At Kenyon Hall(7904 35th Ave SW): The legendary British political songwriter Leon Rosselson, with Robb Johnson. They appear together one night only, in a jaunt through the decades from That Was The Week That Was and the satire boom of the sparky sixties to the curdled present, evoking the spirit of the times through song and story. Reserved table seats are $14. Row seating is $12 general and $10 seniors. With a reservation, row seating is only $10 general and $8 seniors. Elementary, middle, & high school students are $5. Pre-school children are free, and Root Beer Floats are still only a buck. To make a reservation, please e-mail kenyonhall@earthlink.net with your request; you’ll receive an e-mail confirming your reservation.

IN THE JUNCTION TONIGHT: Shop Late Thursdays in The Junction, till 9 pm; participants’ list here … Gin Creek plays blues, rock, and Americana at The Poggie Tavern (4717 California Ave. SW), 9:30 – 11:30 pm.

(Bird experts – what’s this? Early Monday am Seaview photo courtesy Chris Johnson)
From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar, for today/tonight:

TRIANGLE TO COUNCIL: City Council Committee on the Built Environment hears presentation on West Seattle Triangle proposals, including potential extensive rezoning, 9:30 am. Live on Seattle Channel online and cable channel 21. Agenda and presentation links are in our preview story.

MOBILE SIGNUPS FOR SEATTLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS: Community Resources on Wheels hits West Seattle streets to help parents register their children for Seattle Public Schools and get information on a variety of area resources for families. The bus will visit from 11 am – 2 pm at Westwood Village Target, 2800 SW Barton. Parents and caregivers who plan to enroll their student in school should bring the following: Birth Certificate (K-1st grade only); immunization information; current proof of Seattle residence (utility bills, lease, DSHS; shelter/transitional housing letter); admission form (parents can fill out in advance at seattleschools.org or it will be available on the bus) and photo ID of parent/guardian. For more information, visit the website or call the SPS Service Center at 206-252-0760.

INFO ON SERVICES FOR DISABLED SENIORS: “What is PACE?” at Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon St), 12:15 pm. If you know someone over 55 with disabilities, they may qualify for some of these services: prescription drugs, dental or vision care, long term care, home health nursing etc. Drop-ins welcome.

FRESH PRODUCE, SOLD WHERE IT’S GROWN: 3rd week of the High Point Market Garden Farm Stand, 4-7 pm, 32nd SW and SW Juneau. This is a weekly stand selling seasonal fresh organically grown produce right in the garden where the produce is grown. More details here.

In case you feel the need for sunshine at some point today – Alison Doyle shared that video compilation of scenes along Alki and environs from our sunny Saturday (accompanied by contemplative piano music). Thanks, Alison! Meantime, here are highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

PARTIAL BRIDGE CLOSURE: Traffic alert for late-night/early-morning drivers – TONIGHT is the rescheduled start of four nights during which SDOT plans to close the westbound Spokane Street Viaduct 10 pm-5 am. That’s the section of the WS Bridge that runs from I-5 to Highway 99. This means the I-5 and Beacon Hill ramps to the WS Bridge will be closed. Here’s the most recent SDOT reminder.

LOOKING FOR WORK? Always helps to know you’re not alone. The “Notes from the Job Search” support/networking group continues to meet at 11 am Tuesdays at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor; 5612 California SW), 11 am.

STORY TIME: All summer long, it is Somali Story Time at the High Point public library (3411 SW Raymond) branch! Bring your children to enjoy stories, rhymes, and fun in Somali, 1:30-2 pm. … Then tonight, Family Story Time at the Seattle Public Library’s Delridge branch, 7 pm

NEW FIELD FOR ULTIMATE FRISBEE: West Seattle Ultimate Frisbee has moved to Fairmount Playfield, and it’s now twice a week – Tuesdays 6:30-8:30 pm, Sundays 11 am-1 pm.

FREE LEGAL HELP: Community Legal Clinic at Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon). Appointments start at 7 pm. Call 206-267-7070.

If you have lost or found something that’s not a pet (they have their own page), we usually point you to the WSB Forums to report it. But this is an especially unusual find: Amber discovered a bag of wrestling medals and jewelry “thrown in the bushes in front of my apartment building. I found the items after two people that had been loitering around left. … The medals are labeled and I thought their owner might be missing them.” Her building is south of The Junction, and, yes, she’s reporting it to the police. If you have an idea whose they are, e-mail Amber via comm-9cvhw-2512029556@craigslist.org – click ahead for two more photos:Read More

(Bald eagle looking to be in a Monday mood, though WSB’s Patrick Sand photographed it last Tuesday)
From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

COUNTY COUNCIL TAKES UP $20-FOR-METRO: The “congestion reduction charge,” aka “$20/year for car tabs to stave off Metro Transit cuts,” is on the King County Council agenda today. They’ll take one last round of public comment, starting around 3 pm in the council chambers at the County Courthouse downtown. You can sign up starting at 1 pm in the park just south of the courthouse, and you’ll get a card; the process is explained here.

WEST SEATTLE COOKING CLUB: This week’s theme is Condiments: Chutneys, Salsas, Relish, Dipping Sauces, Aioli …. whatever folks create. Meeting is at 2 pm at Beveridge Place Pub.

‘SNAKES: FRIEND OR FOE?’ 3 pm, free program at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond Street).

DUWAMISH TRIBE HOSTS HISTORIC SEATTLE:At Duwamish Longhouse (4705 W. Marginal Way SW), 5:30 – 7 pm, A short quarterly business meeting of Historic Seattle precedes program about learning from historic sites (free/donation).

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

(updated) TODAY’S FORECAST: Mostly cloudy, chance of showers/thundershowers, high in low- to-mid-70s.

It’s a WestSide Baby tradition – reminding people about the “Stuff the Bus” diaper drive by entering a big cheerful contingent in the West Seattle Grand Parade, including the bus itself. As is the case most years, “Stuff the Bus” is the day after the parade – that’s TODAY – but there’s one BIG difference: The location has changed. Bring diaper donations to the Viking Bank parking lot at 40th/Alaska (map) – lots more room to maneuver – between 10 am and 2 pm; help WestSide Baby qualify for a huge double-matching donation (50,000 donated diapers will qualify them for 100,000 from Huggies).

Also today – back to the beach for art and music:

Day 2 of the 2011 Alki Art Fair gets going at 10 am, including another day of continuous live music (till about 5:45 pm), silent auction in the Bathhouse (11 am-4 pm), kids’ muralmaking, and more.

And at the West Seattle Farmers’ Market, 10 am-2 pm at 44th/Alaska in The Junction, here’s what manager Catherine Burke says you’ll find today:

Music: Tommy Dean Acoustic
…Apples – FRESH, first of season – Lodi (green, tart, great for crisps)
Apriums
Beans
Berries
New Varieties of Cherries
CORN
Melons
Nectarines
Peaches
Plums
Pluots

Also in The Junction – Friends of the Animals Foundation will have volunteers on site at Next to Nature from 11 am – 3 pm to help you find the perfect rescued feline companion. Visits can also be scheduled at your convenience. Call 206.719.4864 or online

At Pet Elements in Morgan Junction (6701 California SW), 10 am-2 pm, a Dog Treat Bake Sale to help Stephanie Allis raise money for the Seattle Humane Society.

One more event today: Chinese Martial Arts in the Seattle Chinese Garden. Watch exciting martial arts training sessions by students preparing for local, national, and international events in a traditional garden setting. Noon to 1 pm today, Seattle Wushu Center is featured. The garden’s at 6000 16th Avenue SW, via the north entrance to South Seattle Community College. Information: www.seattlechinesegarden.org

BIG summer-fun day in West Seattle:

WEST SEATTLE GRAND PARADE: That’s the route for today’s West Seattle Grand Parade presented by American Legion Post 160, official start time 11 am, California from Lander to Edmunds, though the motorcycle drill teams roll as early as 10:30. It’s preceded by the West Seattle Rotary Kiddie Parade gathering at 10 am to leave at 11 from California/Genesee (that starting point is noted by the periwinkle marker; all kids welcome to participate). 77 entries are scheduled for the Grand Parade; you can see our previews in this WSB archive (scroll through, as it’s archived newest to oldest). Traffic/transit effects, even for those not attending the parade, are along the route and the side streets, plus a section of southbound California immediately south of the parade’s end at Edmunds; check your Metro route’s schedule for reroutes. South of the staging area from Admiral to Edmunds on California, it’s a “soft closure” around 9:30, enforced by 10, according to parade co-coordinator Jim Edmunds. Advance coverage from the staging zone, coming up! Then today at the beach:

ALKI ART FAIR: Starts at 10 am for the first of two days. Vendors/artists/activities scheduled till 5 pm; live music continues tonight till 8:30 (schedule is on the official fair website). Free but bring $ for T-shirt that supports the volunteer-run fair, for incredible items vendors are selling, for silent auction 11 am-4 pm in the Bathhouse. Lots more details in our earlier previews (scroll down the page that takes you to). All along the promenade around the Bathhouse (whose centennial celebration is part of the fun, including a 2:30 pm vintage-bathing-suit fashion show today). Then recover tonight by relaxing with movie comedy under the stars:

(WSB photo from 7/18/2010, biggest opening-night crowd ever for WS Outdoor Movies)
WEST SEATTLE OUTDOOR MOVIES: Season debut, since last week was a rainout, but the schedule remains the same, so tonight is “Pee Wee’s Big Adventure ” at dusk, following preshow entertainment by local comedian/juggler Matt Baker, bring your own chair/blanket, courtyard next to Hotwire Online Coffeehouse (WSB sponsor, 4410 California SW). Free but bring $ for concessions/raffles benefiting charity.

Also on tap:

SWIMMING: Colman Pool continues its 7-day-a-week summer operations (pool schedule/other info here) … Wading pools open IF the weather is forecast for 70+ degrees (wading pool schedule here)

HELP CLEAN UP ALONG DELRIDGE WAY: Adopt-a-Street in Delridge, 10 am-noon, meet @ Delridge Community Center.

FAUNTLEROY PARK NEEDS YOU: EarthCorps volunteer environmental-restoration event at Fauntleroy Park (10 am – 2 pm). Durable footwear such as work boots, hiking boots or running shoes are recommended for these events. Bring a lunch if you would like as well as a water bottle and a coffee cup/travel mug for refreshments.

ART CONTEST: Unique Families of Seattle art contest crafting session at Southwest Public Library (9010 35th Ave SW), 11 am – 1 pm, for kids/tweens/teens: What is their view of your family? What does your family represent to them? What do they feel their role is in the family? Attendance at a crafting session is not mandatory to enter the contest. Accepting one-dimensional pieces made in any medium, ages 4-18.

(added) FUNDRAISING BAKE SALE: Westcrest Park, Seattle, 12 -4, bake sale to raise money for Charlie the dog’s vet bills (explained on Facebook). Sydni says the lineup includes raspberry bars, triple dark chocolate brownies, caramel walnut brownies, fudge center chocolate cupcakes, lemon grapefruit cupcakes, red velvet cupcakes, chocolate chip, oatmeal chocolate chip, peanut butter and sugar cookies and more, and Full Tilt has donated ice-cream half pints!

TOUR THE CHINESE GARDEN: Free guided tours of the Seattle Chinese Garden every Saturday at 1 pm. The garden is open noon-5 pm. Admission free for Seattle residents, members, and children under 5. Others: Adults $6, Seniors 62+ and students $5. Location: 6000 16th SW; use the north entrance to South Seattle Community College.

SHAKESPEARE AT LINCOLN PARK: GreenStage presents Shakespeare in the Park, Lincoln Park at 7 pm with “Antony and Cleopatra”. Free.

‘VAUD SQUAD’ AT THE ADMIRAL: At the historic Admiral Theater – The Vaud Squad consists of 3 seasoned performers: Joe Black, Magician and Stage Hypnotist (America’s Got Talent); Matt Baker, Juggler (Last Comic Standing); and mentalist Lance Campbell. (Baker and Black are West Seattleites.) The Vaud Squad combines humor, agility, mind boggling mental prowess and great fun for the whole family. Watch an online preview. Tickets are $8 – $12, available at the door.

BILLIE HOLIDAY TRIBUTE: At Kenyon Hall(7904 35th Ave SW): Stacie Calkins and David Duvall present “Lady Day and the Blues” honoring jazz singer Billie Holiday. Reserved table seats are $14. Row seating is $12 general and $10 seniors. With a reservation, row seating is only $10 general and $8 seniors. Elementary, middle, & high school students are $5. Pre- school children are free, and Root Beer Floats are still only a buck. To make a reservation, please e-mail kenyonhall@earthlink.net with your request.

(Photo courtesy Melanie – parent and baby gull at Jack Block Park)
Welcome, sunshine! Looks like The Big Day (West Seattle Grand Parade, Alki Art Fair, outdoor movie, more) tomorrow will be perfect – but first – it’s Friday, and here are highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

ROTARY RASPBERRIES: Pickup is scheduled this afternoon 1-6 pm at 40th/Alaska for the second round of the Rotary Club of West Seattle Berry Sale, raspberries. Walk-up sales are often available – scroll down here for details.

PLAYGROUND PARTY: At Delridge Community Center, it’s the KaBoom! Playground Birthday Party (free, for all ages). From the community-center summer brochure: “Our little playground is turning 2! Join us for an evening of fun and fellowship as we celebrate the playground built in one day.” 4:30-6:30 pm

(added) WEST SEATTLE HEALTH FAIR: Free health resources at High Point Neighborhood Center, including free health checks, a “Healthy Food Here” walk, kids’ activities, more. 5-8 pm at High Point Neighborhood Center, 6400 Sylvan Way SW.

SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK: GreenStage presents “The Tempest” at Lincoln Park, 7 pm, free.

ROCKY HORROR TIMES TWO: Final scheduled weekend of “Rocky Horror Show Live” at ArtsWest in The Junction, and there are two shows tonight – 7:30 and 11 pm. Tickets are available online, here.

MUSIC AT YOUNGSTOWN: James Hurley, singer/songwriter, is performing at The Dewitty Theater at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW). James’ singing and guitar style is unique and witty, sometimes whimsical, with a folk- based style and a little bit of rock and jazz. Doors open at 7 pm and show starts at 7:30 pm. Cost is $10 cash at the door. Kids under 14 are free.

TRIBUTE TO BILLIE HOLIDAY: At Kenyon Hall(7904 35th Ave SW): Stacie Calkins and David Duvall present “Lady Day and the Blues” honoring jazz singer Billie Holiday. Reserved table seats are $14. Row seating is $12 general and $10 seniors. With a reservation, row seating is $10 general and $8 seniors. Elementary, middle, & high school students are $5. Pre- school children are free, and Root Beer Floats are still only a buck. To make a reservation, please e-mail kenyonhall@earthlink.net with your request; you’ll receive an e-mail confirming your reservation.

(Canoes on the shore of the Salish Sea, photographed just after 8 this morning)
From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

TRIBAL JOURNEY RESUMES: The canoes that landed at Alki Wednesday afternoon as part of this year’s Tribal Journey are set to head back out sometime between now and 10, according to a security guard we talked to at the beach this morning.

TUNNEL FORUM: Bring your questions/answers about Seattle Referendum 1 – the tunnel-related measure on the August 16 ballot – to the West Seattle High School Theater tonight, 6-7:30, for what may be the only forum in the city dedicated just to this issue. Presented by the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce and hosted by its board chair Dave Montoure, with 2 panelists from each side, discussion and audience Q/A moderated by WSB editor Tracy Record.

METRO’S FUTURE: Bring your comments about the proposed $20/year fee and/or the threatened service cuts to the last of three public hearings before King County Council members, 6 pm, Burien City Council chambers (4th and 152nd) – here’s our preview.

SHOP LATE THURSDAY: Another edition of Shop Late Thursdays in The Junction, till 9 pm; the list of participating businesses can be seen here.

CAMP LONG ADVISORY COUNCIL: You’re invited to bring park concerns/questions to this meeting, park lodge, 7 pm (more info here)

ALKI COUNCIL: Alki Community Council meeting, 7 pm, Alki UCC, agenda items including this weekend’s Alki Art Fair

‘THE TEMPEST,’ OUTDOORS: GreenStage’s 23rd Season of Shakespeare in the Park kicks off its West Seattle presence at Lincoln Park with “The Tempest”, directed by Michael D. Blum begins at 7 pm (both nights).

LIVE MUSIC: Gin Creek plays blues, rock, and Americana at The Poggie Tavern (4717 California SW), 9:30 – 11:30 pm. … Dvod, Olive Juice, and Werebearcat! at Skylark Café and Club (WSB sponsor, 3803 Delridge Way SW), starting at 9 pm ($5 cover) …

It’s sunny in Cheney! That’s where the West Seattle Little League 10-11 All-Stars are in the state championship tournament, and Lisa Stencel shared the photo with news that they’ve won their first two games and are playing again today. Good luck! Meantime, some of what else is happening today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

EVENING TRAFFIC ALERT: Tonight’s the night with the Sounders-Manchester U game plus the Katy Perry concert at KeyArena bringing tens of thousands of people into downtown – so if you need to get around, maybe consider leaving (or going to, if you work nights) work early. Here’s the official city advisory; and remember, the Water Taxi is running into the evening tonight.

TRIBAL JOURNEY CANOES: We learned earlier this week, as reported here, that some of the Tribal Journey canoes will paddle from Alki Beach on Thursday – but you may see some today, if “no parking” signs we noticed along the beach on Tuesday are accurate; they marked off a spot east of the bathhouse starting THIS morning and continuing into tomorrow.

NEED FACEBOOK HELP? “Basics of Facebook” class at Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon St, also August 24th and 26th), 9:30 – 11:30 am. Cost $10 members, $15 non-members, per series. Prepayment required. Must have a valid e-mail address for class.

HIGH POINT MARKET GARDEN FARM STAND: 2nd week of the High Point Market Garden Farm Stand, 4-7 pm, 32nd Ave SW and SW Juneau. This is a weekly Farm Stand selling seasonal fresh organically grown produce right in the garden where the produce is grown. Accepts Basic Food EBT cards. More details here; our story from last week is here.

KAYAK THE DUWAMISH: Tonight’s the next in a series of community tours of the Duwamish River, 5:30-8:30 pm. RSVP to Alki Kayak Tours (206) 953-0237. Tours cost $45 per person, plus a requested $5 donation per person to support Duwamish River Cleanup Coalition educational programs. All equipment, instructions, and guiding provided; children under 18 must be accompanied by parent/guardian. More info here; meet at Terminal 107 Port Park (4700 West Marginal Way SW).

HOME LOANS 101: FINANCING YOUR DREAM: Next in the series of free workshops sponsored by Savvy Seattle Women, Deanne Sposari, Senior Loan Officer for M & T Bank, will give you the latest information about how to obtain a home loan. Plenty of opportunity for Q & A during this casual, yet quick-paced workshop. Wed., July 20, 6 – 7:30 pm, Prudential Northwest Realty office in Jefferson Square, 4700 42nd Av SW, Suite 600. Attendees are encouraged to bring business cards and use this as an opportunity to network with other local business people and potential clients. Free refreshments, too!

COMMUNITY MEETING #1: Southwest District Council and Delridge District Council have their annual joint meeting, 7 pm at High Point Neighborhood Center, agenda includes potential Metro Transit cuts (with King County Councilmember Joe McDermott expected to speak), Highline Medical Group (WSB sponsor), and whether the Gathering of Neighbors will or won’t happen this year.

COMMUNITY MEETING #2: Morgan Community Association quarterly meeting, 7 pm, The Kenney, 7125 Fauntleroy Way SW. Agenda scheduled to include:
Rapid Ride Status
SDOT: Fauntleroy Expressway retrofit
Murray Pump Station update
Lifelong Recreation Advisory Council
West Seattle in Motion
Whale Trail
MoCA Bylaws Update
Candidates for City Council

(Photo courtesy Steve Fuller)
We reported yesterday morning on the impending temporary move of the SBX from its Vigor Shipyard spot so the Arctic-offshore-oil-drilling rig Kulluk can be maneuvered in. MarineTraffic.com indicates the Kulluk is now off north Seattle shores, so it looks like all this is still on for later today – the plan was for the SBX to spend about six hours out in Elliott Bay doing testing this afternoon/evening. Meantime, from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

JOB-SEARCH SUPPORT GROUP: The long-running job-searcher-support group Notes From The Job Search meets every Tuesday at 11 am at C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor), 5612 California SW. Members have of course come and gone, as jobs have been found (and lost), and if you’re a current searcher, they welcome you to drop in.

COMMUNITY FELDENKRAIS: Community Feldenkrais at Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon St), Erik LaSeur (WSB sponsor), Mary Morrison, & Anna Oeste, guild-certified Feldenkrais practitioners. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, 12:30 – 1:15 group session, $5 members/$10 non-members, 1:30 – 3:30pm individual sessions with appointment (call Erik at 206-406-8154), improve balance and stability, increase flexibility, decrease pain, increase mental clarity.

KIDS’ DESIGN MEETING FOR NEW HIGH POINT PLAYGROUND: High Point is getting a playground at Bataan Park with the help of KaBOOM! and the Windermere Foundation, as first reported here last week, and this is the chance for area kids to have their say in its design. 4:30-7:30 pm, HP Neighborhood Center, 6400 Sylvan Way.

WEST SEATTLE HI-YU CONCERT IN THE PARK: Tonight’s the night! West Seattle Big Band at 7 pm, east lawn of Hiawatha Community Center, free (but bring a few dollars to buy West Seattle Hi-Yu buttons from circulating volunteers and royalty, to support the festival and Seattle’s last neighborhood parade float).

DELRIDGE PRODUCE COOPERATIVE BUYERS’ CLUB: Tonight is this new group’s every-other-Tuesday meeting, to order discounted organic produce for pickup next Sunday. You are welcome to join at any time – just look for the Delridge Produce Cooperative group at 7 pm at Delridge Community Center, 4501 Delridge Way SW.

(One more pic from the West Seattle Garden Tour – others here – lettuce in the Whirligig Garden)
A few highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

URBAN FORAGING: Sustainable West Seattle‘s monthly community event is outdoors this time around – meet at 7 pm, Lincoln Park‘s north parking lot (Fauntleroy and Monroe), for “Urban Foraging in West Seattle.” Not a lecture! Here’s the SWS description:

Ever wondered which “weeds” were safe to eat? Ready to take eating locally to the next level? Join us for an Urban Foraging Walk with Stewart Wechsler, local plant expert. You’ll be introduced to the growing urban harvesting movement while we tour through beautiful Lincoln Park, learning which plants make a great snack and which plants to avoid. The walk will focus on respectful and safe harvesting. Be sure to arrive on time to ensure you can find the tour group!

WEST SEATTLE COOKING CLUB: Featured here in a recent story, the club meets again today, 2:30 pm, Beveridge Place Pub. Theme ingredient this time around is “eggs.”

THIS WEEK’S WEST SEATTLE IN MOTION DEAL: Signed up for In Motion yet? You commit to driving a little bit less here and there, and you get free bus tickets plus a card that’ll get you new deals each week – this week, it’s a half-price Zipcar membership. Go here to sign up. (WSB is the media sponsor for West Seattle In Motion.)

Thanks to the anonymous WSB’er who caught a photo as that boater got assistance from Seattle Police off the 1600 block of Alki SW this afternoon. We don’t know the circumstances, but that did happen to be less than an hour after low tide. That reminded us of photos Jordan shared back on Friday, with what appeared to be more of a high-tide problem by the Harbor West over-the-water complex on Beach Drive:

A tow truck came in to help:

Now, back to today. Back on shore, it may not be surprising we got two sort-of-related photos of the type you wouldn’t expect in mid-July:

That’s from Anne of Ventana Construction (WSB sponsor) – who wrote “it’s officially NOT summer” after finding mushrooms in what’s usually a dormant, brown lawn by this time of summer. And it’s not just her – Machel Spence, famed for fungus photography, sent us a photo today for the first time in months:

Machel says that’s from one of her favorite image-hunting grounds, Lincoln Park. So, is there any hope for sun? Tomorrow’s forecast says “partly sunny” …

The sky may be gray (as of this writing), but the colors of peak gardening season are still bright, and you just might feel more summery if you’re heading out for the West Seattle Garden Tour today. That’s the big event on our list of highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

17th ANNUAL WEST SEATTLE GARDEN TOUR: 9 am-5 pm, your ticket book gets you into 10 spectacular residential gardens around West Seattle, on your timetable (the only fixed-time event is the lecture on perennials by Sue Goetz, noon at West Seattle Golf Course, included in the ticket price of $15, with kids 12/under touring for free). Go get inspired and delighted! Proceeds benefit these local nonprofits; WS Garden Tour co-sponsors include WSB. (Photo at left, from WSGT Facebook “sneak peeks” gallery)

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm at 44th/Alaska as always – live music scheduled today, by Clallam County.

MEDITERRANEAN FANTASY FESTIVAL, DAY 2: In and around Hiawatha Community Center, dance performances – all free – and vendors’ booths comprise this unique festival, with performances scheduled 11 am-5 pm today, here are the lineups.

WHITE CENTER JUBILEE DAYS: The street fair continues today, 11 am-6 pm along 17th Avenue SW between Roxbury, and 100th, details online at JubileeDays.org, see our photos from the street fair on partner site White Center Now.

ICE CREAM FOR A GOOD CAUSE: The annual Cones For Kids fundraiser next to Alki Bathhouse, noon-4 pm, presented by the EJ Guild, benefiting a fund for uncompensated care at Children’s Hospital, with Husky Deli ice cream and games and prizes for kids.

(added) WEST SEATTLE LITTLE LEAGUE ALL-STARS’ CAR WASH: 1-4 pm today at West Seattle Produce (Fauntleroy south of Alaska), get your car washed and help the WSLL 11-12 All-Stars cover the cost of going to the state tournament in Vancouver.

LIVE MUSIC: Jamtime at C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor), 1-4 pm.

(Looking toward south Bainbridge Island from Alki around 10:20 am)
The forecast suggests the weather will improve this afternoon. Rain or no rain, in most cases, so far as we’ve heard, the show(s) must go on (but let us know if something’s been canceled – and we’ll let you know the outdoor movie’s status by mid-afternoon). Here are some highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

HI-YU COMMUNITY BREAKFAST: Fundraising breakfast under way till noon, at Admiral Congregational Church Hall, 4320 SW Hill, $6/adults and $3/kids under 12. From Hi-Yu: “All money raised supports the Scholarship Program for Women. Please join us to learn more about West Seattle Hi-Yu and to meet this year’s royalty. West Seattle Hi-Yu will also be accepting donations for WestSide Baby and West Seattle Food Bank. We hope to see you there!”

WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: It’s an indoor facility, so this may be the perfect day to check out the West Seattle Tool Library at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center space (northeast side of main building), now till 2 pm (9-2 are the regular Saturday hours).

WALKER ROCK GARDEN SCHEDULED TO BE OPEN FOR AN HOUR: Yes, one hour. That’s what its website says. 9:30-10:30 am. 5407 37th SW; here’s our most recent story.

EUROPAKIDS INTERNATIONAL PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: New WSB sponsor welcomes you to its open house, 10:30 am, introducing its new Mandarin Chinese program (as explained here). For location and to RSVP, call Nicole at (206) 708-5784.

‘STUFF THE BUS’ SCHOOL-SUPPLIES DRIVE: At PCC Natural Markets-West Seattle (WSB sponsor), 10 am-4 pm, look for the big school bus in the parking lot. Bring school supplies to donate!

‘TRACKING CRITTERS IN THE URBAN GARDEN’: Community Orchard of West Seattle FREE Event: “Managing Property Next to a Greenbelt – Tracking Critters in the Urban Garden.” 10 am – 12 noon. Animal trails are all around us and all it takes are careful eyes and a little practice to spot them. At this class, we’ll be looking at how common species interact with their local environment, including our gardens and orchards. You’ll learn how and where these animals move and how to identify their tracks and signs in your own backyard. The orchard is on the north side of the South Seattle Community College campus, 6000 16th SW.

WHITE CENTER JUBILEE DAYS STREET FAIR: 10 am – 11 pm along 17th SW between Roxbury and 100th SW. Festival info at JubileeDays.org

BELLY DANCING FESTIVAL: 24th annual Mediterranean Fantasy Festival, free! Non-stop music and entertainment with more than 275 dancers from all over the West Coast. The grounds of Hiawatha Community Center are covered with the bright tents of vendors selling a wide variety of crafts and goods, everything from jewelry to complete belly dance costumes. 11 am-8 pm. Performing schedule, and other info, here.

JULY SHOWERS BRING AUGUST FLOWERS: The South Seattle Community College Garden Center is open to sell plants (etc.) today, on the north end of campus, 6000 16th SW, 11 am-3 pm.

BEACH NATURALISTS OUT FOR LOW TIDE: Find them at South Alki and Lincoln Park (near Colman Pool), 11 am-2 pm. (Low tide is at quarter past noon, -1.8 feet)

FILM FESTIVAL: Remembering Chief Seattle Film Festival at Duwamish Longhouse (4705 W Marginal Way SW), free showings at 11 am, 12:30 pm, and 2 pm. “Chief Seattle” by BJ Bullert, and “Chief Seattle Speaks to Our Time: Interpreted in Lushootseed” by Vi Hilbert. Free admission/parking; Frybread For Justice sales support the Duwamish Legal Fund.

SWAC SIGNUPS: SWAC Football/Cheer (WSB sponsor) registration at Westwood Village Big 5, 11 am – 2 pm.

WALKING TOUR: Southwest Seattle Historical Society Log House Museum Riverside Walking Tour, 11 am – 2 pm. See Facebook Event page here

BOOKMAKING FOR KIDS: Free program at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), 1 pm.

ICE-CREAM SOCIAL: Peace Lutheran Church (8316 39th SW) will host an ice-cream social from 2 – 5 pm on the patio and sidewalk. Games for kids, ice cream for everyone, and a cupcake walk so you can have cake and ice cream.

POLITICAL SLUGFEST: During the 34th District Democrats‘ annual Summer Picnic/Barbecue, which starts at 4 at Lincoln Park, you’re invited to a “political celebrity softball game” – candidates vs. incumbents – details here.

WEST SEATTLE ARTIST IN WHITE CENTER: West Seattle artist Corianton Hale opens a show at Company in WC at 5 tonight, during the White Center Art Walk. Details on this Facebook event page.

STREET PARTY IN SUNRISE HEIGHTS: Sunrise Heights Neighborhood Association Street Party and Dance with the band Bottle Rocket and Moon Girl. The party starts at 5 pm on 30th SW between Othello and Myrtle. There will be live music, a bounce house for the kids, and lots of good times with neighbors! $10 for dinner.

WEST SEATTLE OUTDOOR MOVIES IN THE JUNCTION: First scheduled event tonight – organizers plan to check the weather again at mid-afternoon and we’ll bring you an update on WSB (plus Facebook and Twitter) on its status. Scheduled movie at dusk, “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” courtyard next to Hotwire Online Coffeehouse (WSB sponsor), 4410 California SW, with pre-movie entertainment. Free but bring $ for concessions benefiting nonprofits. (If it’s rained out, “Bueller? Bueller?” will be rescheduled for late August.)

MOVIES ON THE LAWN: Presented by Unique Families of Seattle. Free outdoor movie at 9246 36th Ave SW, 9 pm (donations welcome). Private residence so space is limited, must RSVP to attend. Email joanna@uniquefamiliesofseattle.org. Scheduled movie: Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium. (We’ll check with organizers on their rain plans.)

A few things we wanted to remind you about:

(Photo by Christopher Boffoli for WSB)
AIRSTREAM ART SHOW: Forgot to re-mention this one in the morning preview! Tonight’s the night for Brenda Scallon‘s “gallery in an Airstream trailer” show, 7-10 pm at 4815 46th SW. WSB’s Christopher Boffoli previewed it here.

(WSB photo from July 2010)
1ST WEST SEATTLE OUTDOOR MOVIE TOMORROW: “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” is the kickoff movie of the season for West Seattle Outdoor Movies in the courtyard by Hotwire Online Coffeehouse (WSB sponsor), 4410 California SW, dusk Saturdays. Bring your own chair/blanket – we suggest staking your spot out earlier, it can get crowded! as our photo proves. Movie and preshow entertainment = FREE; bring a few dollars for raffle/concessions benefiting nonprofits.

(Photo from “Garden Tour Sneak Peek” on WSGT Facebook page)
WEST SEATTLE GARDEN TOUR ON SUNDAY: Got your WS Garden Tour ticket yet? 10 gardens, 1 lecture on Sunday all included, plus coupons that’ll save you money at local businesses. Here’s how to get tickets; proceeds benefit these local nonprofits.

TWO POLITICAL NOTES – SATURDAY BASEBALL, THURSDAY FORUM: Incumbents vs. challengers! The 34th District Democrats‘ big softball game happens at 4:30 tomorrow, as part of their annual picnic at Lincoln Park. Flyer here. And since we’re moderating next Thursday’s West Seattle Chamber of Commerce-organized forum on Seattle Referendum 1 (tunnel-related), we’ll be reminding you about it daily – 6 pm Thursday at West Seattle High School Theater, with two reps each from the “approve” and “reject” sides.

(Diaper drive at C & P – photo courtesy WestSide Baby)
Delayed edition of the daily highlights because of this morning’s breaking news. From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

DIAPER DRIVE RIGHT NOW! Till noon, C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor) and Windermere West Seattle Realtors Desiree Loughlin, Sandra Merkin and Kelly Malloy are co-sponsoring a Special Diaper Drive and Coffee Break to benefit WestSide Baby! Free coffee/lemonade if you bring a package of diapers (5612 California SW). If you can’t make it to this one – here are other upcoming diaper drives, including Stuff The Bus day on July 24th.

KIDS’ FUN FEST: At Hiawatha Community Center (2700 California SW) – hours of fun at Fun Fest which will feature carnival games, bouncy toys, refreshments, a dunk tank, children’s entertainment, face painting, and more. Noon-3 pm, $5 for a bracelet or 25 cents a ticket.

WEST SEATTLE HI-YU JUNIOR COURT CORONATION: On the east lawn of Hiawatha during Kids’ Fun Fest, 1 pm.

STORY TELLING: At the White Center Cultural Center (9421 18th Avenue SW), 5:30 pm – open date for Somali storytelling by Mohamed Hassan.

RIVER CELEBRATION: Reiki Fellowship Barbecue Celebration of the Duwamish River at Duwamish Waterway Park from 6-7 pm. Bring something to throw on the grill and enjoy the community of like-minded friends as we come together to honor the river and all its life.

SKATING PARTY: White Center Jubilee Days Retro Roller Skating Party, 7:30 pm to 11 pm, Southgate Roller Rink (9646 17th SW). More atJubileeDays.org

MOVIE NIGHT: Movie Night at Highland Park Improvement Club (1116 SW Holden). Doors open at 6:30 pm, movie at 7pm, *Free admission* Movie hint: Hayley Mills plays twins in this 1961 summer camp classic.

(Barred owl fledgling at Westcrest Park, photographed by Lisa Stencel)
Give a hoot – go to your neighborhood council meeting. Maybe yours is one of the three meeting tonight. Or, perhaps you have something to say about Metro funding – in which case, go downtown. From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar, here are today/tonight’s highlights, also featuring a big road closure:

WESTBOUND SPOKANE STREET VIADUCT CLOSED OVERNIGHT: As part of the ongoing Spokane Street Viaduct Widening Project, the westbound SSV – the West Seattle Bridge between I-5 and Highway 99 – will be CLOSED overnight, 11 pm-5 am, for three nights starting tonight. That also means the WS Bridge ramps from I-5 are closed.

$20 CAR-TAB FEE? OR BIG METRO CUTS? That’s what County Executive Dow Constantine says the choice is. Got something to say about it? Tonight’s public hearing is the closest one to West Seattle, of the three special evening hearings that are being held. 6 pm, county council chambers at the courthouse downtown (516 Third Avenue, 10th floor). Details here.

JUNCTION NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATION: 6:30 pm, Ginomai (corner of 42nd/Genesee), with the agenda including the Fauntleroy Expressway seismic-retrofit project (here’s our update from yesterday) and West Seattle In Motion (signed up yet? freebies and deals, for trying transportation alternatives now and then).

ADMIRAL NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION: 7 pm, Admiral Neighborhood Association meeting, 7 pm, Admiral Church lower-level meeting room (California/Hill), with the agenda including an update on the upcoming Summer Concerts at Hiawatha series.

FAUNTLEROY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION: 7 pm, Fauntleroy Community Association board meeting, all welcome, Fauntleroy Schoolhouse, 9131 California SW.

ROTARY DISTRICT 5030’S YEAR AHEAD: The Rotary Club of West Seattle‘s own Ann Liberato is this year’s District 5030 Governor and will be talking about her plans for the 2011-2012 year, with other District Governors expected to be in attendance, at their weekly lunch meeting, noon at Salty’s on Alki.

TRIVIA ROCKS: Rock music trivia tonight and every Tuesday night at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 8 pm

From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

HELP FOR CAREGIVERS:Are you a caregiver? Chances are if you’re doing one or more of the following for an older adult relative, neighbor, or friend you are in fact a caregiver: Bringing them food or groceries, driving them to appointments, running errands, helping with yard work, checking in on someone, doing a load of laundry for them, visiting them on a regular basis, assist someone with household chores or paying bills, or organizing someone’s medications. Caregiver advocate Amanda is available to be consulted 8:30 am-2 pm Mondays at Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon St), Mondays, to help you connect to in-home services, housing options, Medicaid eligibility, respite, adult day health, support groups, counseling, legal options, transportation, nutrition, and more.

NEW AFTERNOON EXERCISE CLASS: Starting today, Monday and Friday afternoons, also at Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon St), Mondays and Fridays (July 11-29, August 12-22nd, 3 pm – no class except Aug 1, 5 & 8). Cost: $35 for 10 sessions paid in advance. Instructor: Alicia Jean Demetropolis M.E.S. Includes seated/standing activity.

NDNC MEETS: North Delridge Neighborhood Council meeting, 6:30 pm. The council is meeting outdoors this summer as weather permits – this meeting is scheduled for the park alongside Delridge Community Center.

BALLROOM AND SALSA: New dance classes launching with Balorico at Kenyon Hall. Call 206 679-7229 or e-mail balorico@gmail.com.

SING IT: Monday night karaoke with Kelli at Skylark Café and Club (WSB sponsor), 9 pm.

(Photo courtesy Bike Hugger – bikehugger.com)
West Seattle Summer Fest is at center stage again today in The Junction, 10 am-10 pm. Our next story will be a preview of today’s hours, performances, what you need to know before you go But there are a few other big events that we wanted to mention — all from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

EDIBLE GARDEN TOUR: 4th annual West Seattle/White Center self-guided tour, presented by Community Harvest of Southwest Seattle. 10 am-4 pm, details and ticket info here. And as part of the day’s events …

COMMUNITY ORCHARD OF WEST SEATTLE GRAND OPENING: … during the Edible Garden Tour, at noon today, north end of South Seattle Community College campus, a celebration officially opens the orchard (which already has had its first harvests, as reported here). Those scheduled to be on hand include City Council President Richard Conlin.

CHICKEN COOP AND URBAN FARM TOUR: 10 am-4 pm, this Seattle Tilth-presented tour is citywide, but we’re told plenty of stops in West Seattle. Details here.

…AND ANOTHER GARDEN TOUR!: The self-guided, free White Center Jubilee Days Garden Tour is today, 9 am to 6 pm. The Garden Tour will begin in the parking lot of McLendon Hardware in WC (where you can get a free map), traveling through ten distinctive gardens in the White Center area. More Info

SEAFAIR PIRATES’ LANDING: Activities at the beach all day (centered in the Bathhouse area), but the main event, the Seafair Pirates Landing at Alki, should be around noon (not a hard-and-fast time, could be a bit earlier, could be a bit later). Note this tends to draw a huge crowd, so go early, and realize you may have to park a distance away, even south of Admiral Way – or take the bus (Water Taxi shuttle will get you there too). Reminder that, as noted in our previous story, the Pancakes and Pirates fundraiser breakfast continues till 10 outside the Bathhouse (water side), $5/person.

NEED PLANTS? Garden Center (plants on sale!) open at South Seattle Community College, 11 am-3 pm. Details here.

FUNDRAISING BARBECUE AT THRIFTWAY: The weekly West Seattle Thriftway barbecue lunch, starting at 11 am, is a benefit this week for WestSide Baby.

SIGN UP FOR ‘BREATHE DEEP’: Registration party at West Seattle Runner for August 13’s Breathe Deep Seattle 5K at Lincoln Park, noon-4 pm (details and links here)

‘HOOD HUNT: The Southwest Seattle Historical Society‘s Log House Museum presents another ‘Hood Hunt, 1 – 4 pm. See Facebook event page here for details.

BOWL VS. BOWEL: 6-8 pm at West Seattle Bowl: A bowling fundraiser to benefit the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America. Help fund research and treatment of all irritable-bowel diseases. $20 a person. Raffle tickets $1 each or 15 for $10. If you are not able to attend but want to donate, please go to http://online.ccfa.org/goto/heidicoy

‘THE SHESPOT GOES BACK TO CAMP’: At Camp Long Fire Circle (5200 35th Ave SW), 7 pm, the two-woman improv team, The SheSpot, presents a show full of improvised scenes and songs inspired by the audience’s memories from summer camp. After the show, stay for s’mores and hang around the campfire. Kids, dogs, and hand-held percussion instruments are welcome. Tickets $10 day of event. See The SheSpot Facebook page for information.

BELLYESQUE AT SKYLARK: Belly-dancing fundraiser (for new costumes!) tonight at 8. Details are here (but note that online ticket sales have ended so you’ll have to buy at the door).

MUSIC AT SPIRA POWER YOGA: Blues concert at Spira Power Yoga in the Admiral District. BYOP – bring your own pillow. Steve Gold and his guitar band, 8 pm. Ticket info and other details here. Spira Power’s Dora says, “No yoga involved, just sit and enjoy the music!”

CANDYLANDIA: 9 pm at the Heartland Café‘s Benbow Room: Dance party! Brought to you by DJ Cotton Candy every second Saturday of the month.