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.

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.