VOTE! As noted in our reminder earlier this morning, drive your ballot up to the West Seattle “drop-off van” till 8 or get it to a Post Office by tonight. We’ll see one round of results around 8:15 pm, and then the counting will continue, as usual, in the days ahead.
TWO TRAFFIC ALERTS: Till about 3:30 this afternoon, a westbound lane closure is scheduled on the West Seattle Bridge for what SDOT calls a “routine inspection” – here’s the alert; then tonight, the westbound Spokane Street Viaduct is scheduled to close again, 10 pm-5 am (meaning no West Seattle Bridge access from I-5 or Beacon Hill).
TRASH/RECYCLING NOTE: We’re checking into what seems to be a case of mixed messages for Monday customers regarding Waste Management saying it’s back to regularly scheduled pickups, but Seattle Public Utilities reportedly advising in robocalls to put out ALL your carts, whether it’s recycling day or not. As a result, many in north West Seattle put out recycling yesterday and didn’t get it picked up; that may be the result today in the Tuesday neighborhoods – we’re seeing what we can find out from SPU.
NIGHT OUT: Dozens of street parties are in the works all over West Seattle, 6-9 pm, to celebrate neighborhood strength and safety, as part of the every-year national event. STILL not too late to register yours with SPD if you see this before noon – just go here. Meantime, thanks to everyone who answered our annual call for parties that wouldn’t mind us possibly stopping by for a photo – we also appreciate a photo from YOU, so we can include your party in our coverage – editor@westseattleblog.com, or share it via the WSB Facebook page or WSB Twitter feed.
SCHOOL SUPPLIES DRIVE: 9 am-3 pm, you can drop off school-supplies donations at Mars Hill Church in West Seattle, which is collecting five days a week (details here) through August 22nd for distribution later this month.
Lots more for today/tonight and far beyond, on the calendar!
Forgive us one last Blue Angels photo (shared via Flickr) … Doug B caught support C-130 “Fat Albert” after its final run on Sunday – a crew member always pops up from the top hatch as it taxis, waving the flag. (We’re checking on their Seattle departure schedule – it’s usually post-Seafair Tuesday. Update: they left this morning.) Now, on to highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events Calendar for today/tonight … plus updates on ongoing stories:
TRASH/RECYCLING ‘BACK TO NORMAL’: That’s what Waste Management spokesperson Robin Freedman told us on Sunday after we checked back to see if Monday/Tuesday customers would get any catchup for recycling this week. So whatever service you would NORMALLY get today or tomorrow, plan for that – plus extra – on your pickup morning, advises WM. And if you are missed (including if you were a Wednesday customer who did NOT get catchup service on Saturday), the city says you can report it online – go here (look for the link at upper left).
TRAFFIC ALERT FOR TONIGHT: Southbound 99/Alaskan Way Viaduct will NOT be closed tonight (or tomorrow) because the westbound Spokane Street Viaduct WILL be closed those two nights (meaning no West Seattle Bridge access from I-5 or Beacon Hill).
BALLOT DROPOFF VAN: Second-to-last day to get your ballot mailed (must have stamps) or dropped off (no stamps needed) – you can do the latter without leaving West Seattle; go to the southwest side of the West Seattle Stadium parking lot (turn off 35th just south of Avalon), 10 am-5 pm and look for the “ballot dropoff van” (here’s our story, with a photo, from Friday). Tomorrow’s your last chance to vote, and the van will be back 7 am-8 pm.
BUSINESS REOPENS IN NEW LOCATION: The photo above is from Young at Art proprietor Theresa, taken inside their new location at Fauntleroy/Raymond, where they’re reopening today, about a week after moving from the future development site at 42nd/Alaska/California. She says they’ll have “open studio” and art camps resuming today, with their “action painting room” returning in a few weeks. Phone number’s the same (206-937-0736), and she says there’s still room in art camp the second and third week of this month.
TRAFFIC ALERT FOR TONIGHT: Southbound 99/Alaskan Way Viaduct will close 9 pm-5 am between the Battery Street Tunnel and the West Seattle Bridge.
SEAFAIR, THE FINAL DAY: Since the Blue Angels‘ show often includes a few West Seattle passes, they’re usually top of mind here – but there are other local links, like the Miss Beacon Plumbing hydroplane, which underwent a makeover at South Seattle Community College recently (WSB coverage here) – we found it in the pits on Saturday:
(Saturday WSB photo by Patrick Sand)
Today’s full all-day schedule for hydros and airshow, including the Blue Angels around 1:40 pm (after a 1:30-ish takeoff from Boeing Field by the Museum of Flight), can be seen here. It’s also your last chance to tour the Seafair Navy Fleet – noon-3:30 pm.
SWIMMING TODAY: In case the hot weather inspires you to go swimming, some schedules: Wading pools, here; Colman Pool (outdoors at Lincoln Park), here; Southwest Pool (indoors, 2801 SW Thistle), here.
MORE HINTS FOR STAYING COOL: We asked for suggestions on the WSB Facebook page overnight – and here’s what we got! Still time to add yours – we’ll be turning this into a story a bit later.
WEST SEATTLE SUNDAY SOCCER: Join the fun with a pickup soccer game at Delridge Playfield at 7:30 am – early enough that it won’t be too hot yet! More info on the WSSS Facebook page.
GET FIT WEST SEATTLE: A new round of the fun training program begins at West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor; California/Charlestown), 9 am today. They describe it as “couch to half-marathon” – as explained here.
WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm – go shop in the sunshine and see what’s new (highlights are in our calendar listing), 44th and Alaska in The Junction.
BRING HOME A NEW FELINE FRIEND: Adoption event at Next to Nature in The Junction, 11 am-3 pm – details here.
MARS LANDING PARTY: NASA will be watching and waiting around 10:30 tonight to see if Curiosity makes it out onto Mars … and you can do the same thing during a gathering with West Seattle’s own Solar System Ambassador Alice Enevoldsen, who’ll be equipped with the live online feed and air conditioning at The Kenney. Here’s our preview.
(July 2012 Alki Lighthouse photo by Jordan Petram – tour time’s running out!)
Not only will it be summery, it will be REALLY hot – at least by Seattle standards – says the National Weather Service, which now has a heat advisory in effect noon today through 8 pm Sunday. So take care of yourself and your pets (don’t leave them in cars, or without water) … and take advantage of all the outdoor and indoor fun today:
SEAFAIR – BLUE ANGELS, NAVY SHIP TOURS, HYDROS: Find the schedule info linked in our preview. Toplines: The Blue Angels take off from Boeing Field (watch from around the airport periphery OR best of all, from the Museum of Flight) around 1:30 pm. The show is over Lake Washington, where hydro racing gets up to full speed today. (If you’re going, consider a shuttle.) Along the Elliott Bay waterfront from Pier 46 in the south to Pier 90 in the north, you can tour the three Seafair Fleet U.S. Navy ships, 9:30 am-3:30 pm.
SHOW LINCOLN PARK SOME LOVE: Forest-restoration work party starts at 9! Details here.
OUTRIGGER RACE FROM ALKI: The annual “Da Grind” outrigger-canoe race to Blake Island is happening today, so in case you saw the canoes, that’s what it’s about. Details here.
MEET THE HENRIETTAS AT WHITE CENTER FOOD BANK: Open house, with chickens! 11 am-2 pm at 8th and 108th; WC Food Bank serves part of West Seattle too. More info here.
SUMMER FESTIVAL AND BACKPACK GIVEAWAY: 11 am at Delridge Community Center, Eastridge Church invites kids to its Summer Festival, with a first-come-first-served backpack giveaway – details here.
BALLOT DROPOFF VAN, DAY 2: Check our Friday story to see what you’re looking for on the southwest side of the West Seattle Stadium parking lot/driveway, 10 am-5 pm today (and Monday, as well as 7 am-8 pm Tuesday), to drop off your ballot (no postage stamps needed) for Tuesday’s election.
VIETNAMESE CULTURAL CENTER: Director Lee Bui shared that photo of visitor Katy F from last Saturday as a reminder that the center is open for visitors, free, every Saturday, noon-3 pm. It’s at 2236 SW Orchard (north of Home Depot).
‘LION KING’ AT WEST SEATTLE OUTDOOR MOVIES: Third Saturday night movie of the summer in the courtyard next to Hotwire Online Coffeehouse (WSB sponsor) at 4410 California SW! “Lion King” is the film. Magic by Louie Foxx is preshow entertainment. And you’re invited to partake in a free barbecue courtesy of West Seattle Christian Church. The movie’s at dusk (9:30-ish), preshow 7:30 pm, but come earlier to be sure you’ll get a spot (bring your own chair/s and/or blanket/s). Entertainment is free but bring some money for budget-priced concessions provided by WSB sponsor PB&J Textiles (benefiting WSCC’s well-building project) and raffle (benefiting West Seattle Helpline).
(Photo from last weekend’s Lincoln Park performance, courtesy Myrtle G) OUTDOOR SHAKESPEARE: Last chance to see “Taming of the Shrew” in a West Seattle park courtesy of GreenStage this season – 7 pm at Lincoln Park.
‘ANYTHING GOES’: West Seattle’s own Twelfth Night Productions (WSB sponsor) brings the classic Cole Porter musical to West Seattle High School Theater (3000 California SW) again at 7:30 pm tonight, then running Fridays-Sundays the next two weekends. Food drive too – bring a nonperishable-food donation for the West Seattle Food Bank!
‘SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK LIVE JR.’ CONTINUES: Second-to-last chance to catch it, tonight at 7:30 pm at ArtsWest (4711 California SW).
(Great blue heron during low tide on Alki on Wednesday; photo by Patrick Linville)
Notes for the day/night ahead:
RECYCLE/YARD-WASTE DRIVERS’ STRIKE DEAL: As reported last night, Waste Management and its striking drivers reached a tentative deal, and the drivers have a ratification vote this morning. After that, we hope to find out more specifics for everyone who missed pickups during the weeklong strike. In the meantime, if you were supposed to have Wednesday pickup, you are urged to LEAVE YOUR CARTS OUT because the city is still taking inventory; if you have Thursday pickup, put your carts out – garbage-truck drivers, who had walked out in support of the recycle/yard-waste strike, are back on the job now, but the other pickups’ schedule isn’t firmed up yet.
BLUE ANGELS: Today’s the first of four days the Blue Angels will roar through Seattle skies for Seafair, with I-90 bridge closures as a result. Today’s the day with two closures: 9:45 am-noon and 1:15-2:30 pm. All four days’ closures are listed here. As for what exactly they’re doing during today’s practices, Seafair spokesperson Melissa Jurcan explains:
The U.S. Navy Blue Angels #s 1-4 will take off at 10 am … from Boeing Field near the Museum of Flight for circle and arrival maneuvers in preparation for the Boeing Air Show. They will be in the air over the city getting familiar with the area. At 11 am #s 5-6 will take off for a look at the South Lake Washington event site. The I-90 Bridge will be closed between 9:45 a.m. and noon.
All Blue Angels jets will return to Boeing Field and be on the ground for a short time. Following that #s 1-6 will take to the air for a practice performance over Lake Washington. Again, the I-90 Bridge will be closed between 1:15 pm and 2:30 pm for this practice.
OTHER TRAFFIC ADVISORIES: Tonight’s alerts are the same as the last three nights – 99/Alaskan Way Viaduct will be closed southbound 9 pm-5 am between the Battery St. Tunnel and West Seattle Bridge; the bridge’s eastbound offramp to 1st Avenue S. will again be closed 10 pm tonight to 5 am tomorrow. (See the day-by-day/night-by-night closure list here.)
LOW TIDE: Still low enough for good tidewalking – and you might see sights like the heron above. 11:35 am, -1.9 feet (here’s this month’s chart).
SUMMER CONCERTS AT HIAWATHA: Tonight you’re invited to the series’ second of six free Thursday night shows presented by the Admiral Neighborhood Association – bluesy Mark DuFresne performs on Hiawatha Community Center‘s east lawn, 6:30 pm. KING 5‘s Jim Dever emcees. Bring your own chair(s)/blanket(s), picnic, etc. (Hiawatha is at 2700 California SW, but the east lawn faces Walnut.)
TONIGHT’S TRAFFIC ALERTS: From our list of this week’s planned closures, tonight’s alerts are the same as the last two nights – 99/Alaskan Way Viaduct is closed southbound 9 pm-5 am between Battery Street Tunnel and West Seattle Bridge; the WS Bridge’s eastbound offramp to 1st Avenue S. is closed 10 pm tonight to 5 am tomorrow.
DENNY GARDEN PARTY: As reported here earlier this week, the Denny International Middle School garden will get some TLC today from volunteers and visitors including students, professional athletes, and new Seattle Public Schools Superintendent José Banda. The event is scheduled 10 am-1 pm.
SEAFAIR PARADE OF SHIPS/FLIGHT: Before the Seafair fleet parades past the downtown waterfront 1:45-2:15 pm, you should be able to see the ships passing West Seattle a bit earlier in the afternoon. Again this year, aircraft are part of the event, so watch for flybys (Coast Guard helicopters and more). We’re participating in the media ridealong aboard the USS Bunker Hill, and will report from onboard before and during the parade (watch the WSB Twitter and Facebook pages for photos, too).
HIGH POINT MARKET GARDEN FARM STAND: Your weekly chance to buy fresh organic vegetables yards from where they were grown – 4 to 7 pm today, 32nd and Juneau.
SOUTH PORTAL WORKING GROUP:This every-few-months meeting has state, city, county, Port, and citizen/business/community reps taking a look at what’s ahead for the south end of the Highway 99 work as well as other related projects; public’s welcome – it’s at 4 pm in the Sound Transit board room on South Jackson downtown.
(Thanks to Brooke Kipling for the golden view of Sunday night’s sunset, from West Seattle’s west shore)
Happy Monday! Here are the highlights of our look ahead to what’s up today/tonight – including events not in West Seattle but of interest here:
WONDERING ABOUT TRASH/RECYCLING PICKUP? The Waste Management recycling/yard-waste drivers’ strike continues, supported by garbage-truck drivers; the company is bringing in what it calls “substitute drivers,” saying they will focus on commercial pickups today. Here’s the newest information.
TRAFFIC ALERTS FOR TODAY/TONIGHT: From our day-by-day traffic-alert list: Southbound 99/Alaskan Way Viaduct will be closed 9 pm-5 am; the 1st Avenue South exit from the eastbound West Seattle Bridge will close 10 pm-5 am. And during the day, in West Seattle, there is one alert: Concrete trucks are expected at the Barton Street Pump Station expansion project next to the Fauntleroy ferry dock noon-4:30 pm, and the county warns some traffic trouble might result. (They will have flaggers to assist.)
1ST BLUE ANGEL ARRIVES:Seafair‘s big week always begins with a sight in the sky – the first Blue Angels jet to arrive (the other six are due tomorrow) is expected this morning. We’re checking with Seafair on the time. You’ll likely see it zipping around on media/VIP ridealongs, too. (ADDED 8:43 AM: The first jet has arrived. It’ll be out on “key influencer” ridealongs from 11 am-3 pm. Tomorrow’s group arrival is scheduled around 11 am.)
COUNTY COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING ON SODO ARENA: 1:30 pm today, the public has another chance to tell the King County Council what it thinks about the SODO arena plan, during a public hearing at the council’s meeting in the courthouse downtown (as explained here). 1:30 pm; details here.
A few more notes before we get too far into our sun-is-trying-to-break-through Sunday:
OVERLAPPING 99 CLOSURES: Northbound Highway 99 between the West Seattle Bridge and Royal Brougham Way remains closed till 5 am tomorrow. And that will overlap with a southbound closure between the Battery Street Tunnel and WS Bridge from 9 pm tonight till 5 am tomorrow. (Our melded day-by-day version of the closure list for the week ahead, with info for both 99 and the Spokane Street Viaduct, will be published later today.)
ALKI ART FAIR, DAY 2: Here are our reports from Day 1, and from Night 1. Hours are 10 am-6 pm today along the boardwalk, and that’s when you can catch the shuttle from the West Seattle High School parking lot (3000 California SW); music runs 10 am-8 pm (here’s the schedule).
WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm at 44th/Alaska as always – peak time for some summer produce!
WING-EATING CONTEST: At West Seattle’s Wing Dome today – but it’s not an “everybody sit down and compete all at once” event – it’s ongoing from 11 am to 9 pm; info here.
FIRST ALL-AGES OPEN MIKE AT SKYLARK: Sign up at 3 pm, three songs each between 4 and 7 pm, at Skylark Café and Club (3803 Delridge Way SW). We have it on good word that musician India Spence (recently seen at Summer Fest) will be among the performers. Note that the bar IS open for those with 21+ up ID.
WEST SEATTLE COOKING CLUB: They usually meet on Mondays, but this is one of those special weekend gatherings just for those who are busy weekdays. 3 pm at Beveridge Place Pub – the theme is “Southwestern.”
MORE SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK: Today Greenstage presents “Taming of the Shrew” at 3 pm in Lincoln Park, free.
(Recent sunrise, from Flickr member t_ravtyler, via the WSB group pool)
The summer fun continues – even before the start of the Alki Art Fair this morning, and even beyond the final credit roll for West Seattle Outdoor Movies‘ showing late tonight. Here’s today’s list:
NORTHBOUND VIADUCT CLOSURE STARTS TONIGHT: 5:30 tonight through 5 am Monday, the northbound Alaskan Way Viaduct is closed from the West Seattle Bridge northward. However, after the Seafair Torchlight Run tonight, it will reopen from Royal Brougham Way northward. Still means no access from the eastbound WS Bridge, but you’ll be able to get onto northbound 99 from SODO.
COMMUNITY SCHOOL OF WEST SEATTLE RUMMAGE/BAKE SALE: 8 am to 6 pm today, thousands of items are on sale (including the ones “under wraps” in the photo above). Treats too – including cinnamon rolls and scones, starting first thing in the morning. Map’s in our calendar listing.
EVEN MORE RUMMAGE/GARAGE/YARD SALES: This must be the peak of the season – the WSB Forums‘ Freebies/Deals/Sales section is full of listings for this weekend. Including the “best yard sale ever.” See the listings here (and if you’re having one, make sure you’ve posted it too – free!).
ALKI ART FAIR – WITH LOTS OF LIVE MUSIC – AND A SHUTTLE! Art/music/shuttle are the three points you’ll want to remember for the two-day Alki Art Fair, for starters. Of course you’ll find art to enjoy, browse, and purchase (dozens of booths and tents along the boardwalk and by the Bathhouse) – but the live-music lineup is more extensive than ever, and stretches beyond the official Art Fair hours of 10 am-6 pm. Here’s the updated music schedule, starting with Kyle Hough at 10:30 this morning and continuing through Matt the Hoopla at 8 tonight. The free shuttle, meantime, is a yellow school bus running every 15 minutes or so from the West Seattle High School parking lot (3000 California SW) to the Art Fair, between 10 am and 6 pm, both days – great option if you are driving your own vehicle, since Alki parking can get crazy. (No road closures for the street fair, so regular buses serving Alki can get you there too.)
SWAT FOOTBALL AND CHEER BARBECUE: Come enjoy a barbecue and sign up for SWAC Football and Cheer‘s new season, 11 am-2 pm at Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle). Barbecue also welcomes new and returning players. Registration also continues online at SWACcougars.org.
DELRIDGE LIBRARY: A TALE OF TEN YEARS: Celebrate the Delridge Library‘s 10th anniversary 1:30 pm-4 pm today – details here.
‘YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN’ AT WEST SEATTLE OUTDOOR MOVIES: Week two for the free Saturday night movies (co-sponsored by WSB) in the courtyard by Hotwire Online Coffeehouse (WSB sponsor; 4410 California SW). The movie, “Young Frankenstein,” is at dusk (9-something); pre-show entertainment is by jump-rope champ Rene Bibaud, 7:30 pm start; tonight’s raffle benefits Seattle Lutheran High School, with the SLHS Key Club providing concessions, cupcakes by Sugar Rush Baking Company, and PB&J Textiles (WSB sponsor) handling the popcorn machine. Come early, BYO chair/blanket, and stake out your spot(s).
GARDEN CONCERT: You’ve heard of house concerts; this one’s billed as a garden concert at a West Seattle home, with three acts – Rebecca Cohen, Matt Price, Robin McGillveray – starting at 7 pm; lineup and map here.
SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK: 7 pm at Camp Long (5200 35th SW), Greenstage presents “Henry VIII.” Free!
SEAFAIR TORCHLIGHT PARADE: Downtown, but featuring West Seattleites – our calendar listing includes the full parade running order, according to what Seafair made public earlier this week. (The West Seattle Hi-Yu float and volunteers appear 28th, according to that lineup. Other entries with West Seattle ties include the Seattle All-City Marching Band, led by Denny/Sealth’s Marcus Pimpleton and featuring numerous local student musicians, and King County Executive Dow Constantine. Plus, when the Seafair Scholarship Program for Women contestants go by, you’ll see Hi-Yu representative Kelsey Bills – she’s one of the contenders up for Queen/Princess honors in the pre-parade coronation. And Mayor McGinn will be driven by West Seattleite Craig Vinton in his electric roadster.) Parade starts from just south of Seattle Center at 7:30 pm and proceeds down 4th Avenue to the International District. If you want to get in the mood earlier, there’s a “Torchlight Spectacular” event at Seattle Center starting at 2 pm, with your chance to preview parade floats, among other things. And before the parade, there’s the Torchlight Run.
FREE SKIN CANCER SCREENING: Look for the Skin Cancer Foundation‘s RV in the lot at Rite Aid at 5217 California Ave SW – that’s where you’ll find West Seattle dermatologist Dr. Susanne L. Gee (WSB sponsor), who will be screening from 1- 4 pm as part of the foundation’s Road to Healthy Skin Tour.
PLAYGROUND PARTY: This month marks the third anniversary of the Delridge (Community Center) Playground’s community build and grand opening! Come celebrate 4:30-6 pm.
CAMP COLMAN CELEBRATION IN FAUNTLEROY:5:30-8:30 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy, celebrate the camp’s history and future with a bean-feed dinner and screening of the Camp Colman Centennial film.
MARCHING BANDS ‘JAM’ TONIGHT! Not in West Seattle, but lots of young West Seattle musicians participating, notes Seattle All-City Marching Band director/Denny International Middle School/Chief Sealth International High School music leader Marcus Pimpleton:
The students and staff of the Seattle Schools All-City Marching Band cordially invite you to join us for the 2012 Band Jam (tonight) at 6:30 pm at Memorial Stadium – 401 5th Ave N. The evening will feature musical performances by the:
Ten Man Brass Band
Junior All-City Marching Band (presented by Denny International Middle School, Chief Sealth International H.S., and the All-City Band)
Sumner High School Marching Band
Seattle Seahawks Blue Thunder Drumline
Seattle Sounders Soundwave FC Band
Seattle Schools All-City Marching Band
It will be a fun night celebrating the best part of any parade – the marching bands.
HAITI FUNDRAISER: Artist Leah Ingram is raising money to spend three months teaching kids in Haiti, and tonight Mind Unwind in the Admiral District is hosting a drop-in fundraiser, starting at 7 – details here.
Thanks to Toni T. for the photo of the West Seattle Water Taxi emerging from the fog. The rest of West Seattle will be out of the clouds later, the forecast assures us … which is a good thing, because there’s much to do!
RECYCLING/YARD WASTE/GARBAGE STRIKE UPDATES: As noted in our first story of the morning, Waste Management says there’ll be no pickup today (including for those whose pickups were missed yesterday). We’ll continue to keep the newest update on the strike linked atop the BIG STORIES headline list on the WSB sidebar, for as long as this lasts.
VIADUCT CLOSURES – TONIGHT AND THIS WEEKEND: The top of the BIG STORIES list on the sidebar is also where you will always find the latest info on major road closures. In addition to another overnight closure of the SOUTHBOUND 99/Viaduct tonight, 9 pm-5 am, remember that there will be a NORTHBOUND closure this weekend, 5:30 pm Saturday till first thing Monday morning. (This incorporates the Seafair Torchlight Run closure – see this story from last week for complete details.)
ROXHILL MAKEOVER: All day today at Roxhill Elementary – as per this note in our calendar – hundreds of volunteers from T-Mobile are working to give Roxhill Elementary a makeover as part of a one-day mega-work party.
SHOP LATE THURSDAY IN THE JUNCTION: Every Thursday this summer, till 9 pm, dozens of shops are keeping the doors open later than usual so you can come browse and buy. Tonight, Click! Design That Fits (WSB sponsor) and Twilight Artist Collective have special events – they’re both doing tastings (Finnriver Cider at Click! and Joia Soda at TwAC) – read about it here.
SOMETHING I CAN DO: VOICES FROM OCCUPY SEATTLE: Free performance at Puget Ridge Co-Housing (7020 18th SW), 6:30 pm. Details in the calendar listing.
SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK: The first of Greenstage‘s free West Seattle performances this summer is tonight at Lincoln Park – “Henry VIII” at 7 pm.
Even MORE on the calendar – check out the list here (and browse ahead days, weeks, months! expand any entry by clicking the “plus” on the right side – then click “read more” for additional details, including maps).
(WSDOT aerial from last Friday, shared via Flickr: Highway 99 work zone south of the Alaskan Way Viaduct)
Quick look at what’s happening today/tonight before the morning gets much older:
SOUTHBOUND VIADUCT/99 CLOSURE AGAIN TONIGHT: 9 pm-5 am, Battery Street Tunnel to West Seattle Bridge. In case you’ve missed earlier advisories, this will be the pattern, WSDOT says, five nights every week (Sun.-Thurs., weather permitting) until fall, as they continue reinforcing the section of the Alaskan Way Viaduct under which the tunnel-boring machine will pass. P.S.
PRESIDENTIAL VISIT: It’s almost local, since Boeing Field is so close. As noted here last night, President Obama is due to arrive there sometime in the 5 pm hour, and is headed for two fundraisers at a private home on Lake Washington. The airport advisory says he’ll leave in the 9 am hour tomorrow.
WOMEN IN CHARGE: We first told you last month about this newly formed group for West Seattle’s women business owners; this morning is their first major meeting, 9:30 am at Mind Unwind (2210 California SW).
MONDAY ARTISTS: This group of watercolorists welcomes you to join them 9:30 am-noon on Monday mornings at Island View Apartments (3033 California SW).
LAS VEGAS IN WEST SEATTLE! That’s the theme for this week’s meeting of the West Seattle Cooking Club, 3 pm at Beveridge Place Pub – Las Vegas! Go cook something that reminds you of Sin City and bring it along.
NIGHTLIFE: Monday is Pub Quiz night at Shadowland, 8 pm … Sing with Karaoke Kelliat Heartland Café‘s Benbow Room tonight at 9 pm …
We’ve already previewed the Hi-Yu Community Breakfast till 11 (story here) … WestSide Baby‘s “Stuff the Bus” diaper drive 10 am-2 pm (story here) … but here’s even MORE happening in West Seattle and vicinity today:
ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR: At 4480 Fauntleroy Way in The Triangle, Diva Espresso is hosting an arts/crafts fair till 3 this afternoon – details here.
WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: As with every Sunday, you’ll find it at 44th/Alaska till 2 pm.
WHITE CENTER JUBILEE DAYS STREET FAIR/PARADE: Today’s events start with the parade at 11:30 am and continue till the carnival closes at 9; you can find full schedule/event details on our partner site White Center Now.
ZIPPY’S BURGER-EATING CONTEST: Registration started at 10, contest is at 2 pm, at Zippy’s Giant Burgers (WSB sponsor), 9614 14th SW. (Entry fees donated to the White Center Food Bank, which also serves part of WS.)
Get nostalgic tonight with “Pretty in Pink” under the stars – that’s a quick clip,”the computer scene,” above. It’s part of an all-star lineup of Saturday happenings in West Seattle and a bit beyond:
YOGA CLASS BENEFITING WESTSIDE BABY DIAPER DRIVE: On “Stuff the Bus” weekend, Center Studio is having a 90-minute yoga class – bring diapers! Details on their website.
PRE-PARADE SIGHTINGS: Ever seen a parade behind the scenes? In the Admiral District, you can watch what happens before the West Seattle Grand Parade – and for example, you can expect to see the Seafair Pirates show up outside Merrill Gardens-Admiral Heights (WSB sponsor) around 8:30 am (that’s where West Seattle Hi-Yu royalty will host visiting royalty for breakfast a bit earlier).
FLOAT DODGER 5K: A brand-new feature on parade day – 9:45 is when it begins. Read the FAQ here. If you’re not among the hundreds signed up already, get to West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor)-land at California/Charlestown, the starting line for the charity run-walk, to register right before the race!
GET AN ID TAG FOR YOUR PET: Furry Faces Foundation is back with on-the-spot tag-making today in two places: 10 am-2 pm at Hotwire Online Coffeehouse (WSB sponsor; 4410 California SW) during the West Seattle Grand Parade, and 3-6 pm at Big Al Brewing in White Center during Jubilee Days. Details here.
WEST SEATTLE AMERICAN LEGION POST 160 GRAND PARADE! 10:30 is the official start time for the Seattle Police Motorcycle Drill Team to take off from California/Lander (with a special stop along the way AND with the Seattle Police Pipes and Drums following them for the first time); 11 am is when the rest of the parade is expected to head down the route. In all, close to 100 participating groups/floats/vehicles will march or roll right by you if you’re somewhere along the official route – California SW between Lander in the Admiral District and Edmunds in The Junction. (Here’s our final mega-preview, with links to all our OTHER previews, and more overview info for parade fans, including road closure/parking restriction info – VERY important.)
THRIFTWAY BARBECUE BENEFITING WESTSIDE BABY: Tomorrow’s the diaper drive, today’s your chance to help WestSide Baby and get a yummy lunch – the weekly West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor) barbecue benefits WS Baby, starting at 11 am.
WHITE CENTER JUBILEE DAYS STREET FAIR, CAR SHOW, KID CENTER, CARNIVAL: 11 am is when most of the excitement revs up today in White Center – just head toward Roxbury/17th and you can’t miss it. Live music continues till about 11 pm. Check out the schedule for today’s festivities by going here. (Continues Sunday.)
MEDITERRANEAN FANTASY FESTIVAL: Belly-dancing performances, costumes, music, more, in the park around Hiawatha Community Center (2700 California SW). Performances today are scheduled 11 am-7 pm – the list of performers is here. (Continues Sunday.)
MUSICAL STORYTIME AT BARNES AND NOBLE: Musikal Magik will be performing Musical Storytelling at the Barnes & Noble in Westwood Village at 11 am – a special Music with Movement storytime featuring children’s entertainer Katy Webber.
GATEWOOD ELEMENTARY PLAYDATE: Child going to Gatewood Elementary this fall? 1-3 pm, join other families at the Gatewood playground (4320 SW Myrtle) for a special playdate!
‘PRETTY IN PINK’ KICKS OFF WEST SEATTLE OUTDOOR MOVIES: Free, fun, but don’t wait till the last minute – movie’s at dusk, around 9:30 pm, but gates at the Hotwire Online Coffeehouse courtyard (4410 California SW) open a couple hours earlier, BYO blanket/chair and get your spot. Also bring $ for raffles – proceeds tonight benefit WestSide Baby, which is selling concessions too. Opening act: Bob “Bobcat Bob” Rice, 8 pm.
‘UNDER AFRICAN SKIES’ EVENT: At 7 pm, this much-acclaimed film about singer/songwriter Paul Simon’s return to Africa plays the Admiral Theater – and doors open at 6:15 pm for food and beverages from Pan Africa Grill. Details on The Admiral’s website.
LANTERN LAUNCH ON ALKI: It happens at least once a year – those floating candlelit lanterns appear in midair and someone e-mails wondering what’s happening. Here’s advance notice that a lantern-lighting is planned around 8:30 pm at Alki, as a benefit for youth art – explained here.
(WSB photo added 10:12 am – Hiawatha is starting to set up Fun Fest indoors)
We’ve been checking with organizers of all outdoor events to find out if they have indoor alternatives or if they plan to assess conditions at a certain point. This lineup incorporates what we’ve found out so far – as well as quick reminders about indoor events that obviously are NOT affected by the weather. Have a great Friday!
KIDS’ FUN FEST: Noon-3 pm at Hiawatha Community Center (2700 California SW) – indoors instead of outdoors, because of the weather, but it’s still on! In addition to bouncy toys and games, $15 bike helmets are scheduled to be on sale. Fun Fest will be in the GYM at Hiawatha.
HI-YU JUNIOR COURT CORONATION: Scheduled for 1 pm at Hiawatha during Fun Fest – 11 candidates, according to this morning’s update from Hi-Yu. UPDATE: This event will be held upstairs at Hiawatha – there’s a large room with a stage.
OUTDOOR MOVIE, BENEFITING THRIVE THROUGH CANCER, POSTPONED: Update – Just got word from Hotwire Online Coffeehouse (WSB sponsor) proprietor Lora Swift that the showing of “50/50” to benefit for West Seattle-founded Thrive Through Cancer is POSTPONED till August 10th. (At this point, the first movie of the regular West Seattle Outdoor Movies season, “Pretty in Pink” on Saturday night, is still ON – we’ll of course be watching the weather tomorrow, and you can count on us for real-time updates.)
INDOOR MOVIE AT HIGHLAND PARK IMPROVEMENT CLUB: “Finding Nemo” at 7 pm, doors open at 6:30. Movie’s free; volunteers will sell popcorn, candy, and other concessions. BYO blankets/pillows or just sit in the HPIC chairs. All welcome! 12th and Holden.
WHITE CENTER JUBILEE DAYS CARNIVAL: It’s open at Steve Cox Memorial Park (15th/102nd) today at 1 pm and continuing on into the night; here’s more info from the Jubilee Days website.
FAUNTLEROY WAY ‘GREEN BOULEVARD’? TELL THE CITY WHAT YOU THINK: As first reported here last Friday, the city is moving ahead with early design for a potential “Green Boulevard” revamp along Fauntleroy Way SW between the West Seattle Bridge and SW Alaska. An open house 4-6 pm at the Senior Center of West Seattle (California/Oregon) is your first chance to take a look at the concept and tell the city what you think. If you can’t drop by before 6, this page has info on how to comment (bottom of page).
SKILLET FOOD-TRUCK FOUNDER AT METROPOLITAN MARKET:Josh Henderson of Skillet, which helped ignite the food-truck craze in Seattle, has published a cookbook, and he’s signing it 4-6 pm today at Metropolitan Market in Admiral.
NOT IN WEST SEATTLE, BUT – IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN THE SODO ARENA PROPOSAL: The joint city-county hearing is today, 5 pm, at Seattle City Hall downtown. Details in our calendar listing.
LUNA PARK BLOCK PARTY: 6-9 pm tonight, your second annual chance to stroll the business district that stretches south from Avalon/Harbor/West Seattle bridge. Watch a glass-blowing demonstration at Avalon Glassworks, enjoy live music and freebies at Ola Salon, happy hour at Luna Park Café, and more – as listed here.
‘SHOP LATE THURSDAY’ IN THE JUNCTION: 6-9 pm, all summer long; participating businesses are listed here.
COMMUNITY KAYAK TOURS OF THE DUWAMISH RIVER: Tonight is the first in a series of tours – and one of two in the series that takes off from T-107 Park in West Seattle. 6 pm. Full details here.
ALKI COMMUNITY COUNCIL: Monthly meeting at 7 tonight, Alki UCC Church (6112 SW Hinds), with agenda including the proposed rezone we reported on here.
These are just some of the highlights – full lineup for today/tonight is on the calendar!
FARM-FRESH VEGETABLES! The High Point Market Garden Farm Stand at 32nd and Juneau has its second weekly open-to-the-public session today, 4-7 pm.
‘A NIGHT IN SPAIN’: Food, music, and dance at the Senior Center of West Seattle (California/Oregon), 5 pm – details here, including the number you need to call NOW for reservations.
DISTRICT COUNCILS MEET TOGETHER: West Seattle’s two district councils, Southwest and Delridge, meet together once a year, and tonight’s the night, 7 pm, Southwest Teen Life Center, 2800 SW Thistle. The agenda includes updates from County Assessor Lloyd Hara and City Councilmember Tim Burgess.
MORGAN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION: Its quarterly meeting is also at 7 pm, lower-level meeting room at The Kenney (WSB sponsor), 7125 Fauntleroy Way SW. Agenda here, including updates on RapidRide work and the Murray Pump Station CSO project at Lowman Beach.
JUBILEE DAYS FIREWORKS AND CARNIVAL: As noted here last night, White Center’s Jubilee Days festival launches its carnival this afternoon, with a professional fireworks show tonight, both at Steve Cox Memorial Park, close enough to West Seattle that many might hear them (or to go see them!)
DEADLINE TO COMMENT ON REZONING PROPOSAL:We reported almost two weeks ago on a rezoning proposal for six acres of land along Harbor Avenue’s waterfront, southeast of Salty’s. As noted in that story, today’s the city deadline for commenting on the proposal, if you’re interested.
DROP-IN E-BOOK CLINIC: Need help with downloading e-books and/or audiobooks? The Southwest Branch of the Seattle Public Library (35th/Henderson) invites you to stop by 6-7:30 pm tonight – any time during that window – for help.
MURRAY CSO MEETING: The community advisory group for the Lowman Beach sewer-overflow-control project will meet tonight, 6:30 pm at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW). Agenda highlights are in the calendar listing.
EVENING BOOK GROUP: The High Point Branch of the Seattle Public Library hosts its evening book group at 6:30 pm tonight; this month’s book is “The Lost Painting” by Jonathan Harr.
WEST SEATTLE HI-YU CONCERT IN THE PARK: It might still be cloudy, but the forecast says it’ll be warm when the West Seattle Big Band takes the stage for the Hi-Yu Concert in the Park tonight on the Hiawatha Community Center/park’s east lawn. Note the time is different from previous years – 7:30 pm. Bring your own chair/blanket to sit on the grass. Admission free.
(Photo by Jordan Petram, shared via Flickr – Alki Point Lighthouse, open for tours 1-4 pm summer weekends)
Recovered from West Seattle Summer Fest yet? (Our coverage, day by day, is linked in the sidebar “BIG STORIES” list, if you want to browse the pics and video, or here!) Rest up for more summer fun ahead – though today is semi-quiet; here are some highlights:
BRIDGE CLOSURES THIS WEEK? Short answer – NO bridge or 99/Viaduct closures. But Thursday and Friday nights (late night into early the following morning), the Spokane Street Viaduct Widening Project will require lane closures in both directions, and the ramp to the West Seattle Bridge from *northbound* I-5 will be closed as a result. Those closures are listed in the latest “construction lookahead” from SDOT/WSDOT.
WORK AHEAD AT LOWMAN BEACH PARK: You might have missed this story, published here Saturday, amid all the Summer Fest coverage over the weekend – this week, King County will start a monthlong project at Lowman Beach Park, but it’s NOT related to the upcoming megaproject to build the million-gallon storage tank to reduce combined-sewer overflows. They’re replacing the grate over the underground Murray Pump Station. That’ll block off a few parking spaces on the street and part of the south side of the park. It’s all explained here (including aerial photos).
DELRIDGE PRODUCE CO-OP MEETING: Tonight, 6:30 pm, Delridge Library (Delridge/Brandon). Marketing, membership, and upcoming events are on the agenda.
WALK OR BIKE TO FIND OUT ABOUT GREENWAYS: This month’s Sustainable West Seattle “forum” will get you out and about for a firsthand look at proposed “greenways” through eastern WS. Meet at the West Seattle Tool Library, on the northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW), at 7 pm, and either bike along with Stu Hennessey of Alki Bike and Board (WSB sponsor) or walk with Feet First.
There’s more on the calendar, including events that happen every Monday, from paddleboarding to cooking!
(Thanks to Robert Spears for sharing the Saturday double-eagle sighting from Alki, via the WSB Facebook page)
OK, so it’s cloudy, misty, breezy. The fun must go on.
WEST SEATTLE SUMMER FEST, FINAL DAY: Rain or shine, the festival carries on – once things get under way for the day at 11 am (an hour later than Friday/Saturday), we’ll start our “live” coverage, and we’ll have updates if the weather leads to any changes in scheduled events. Scheduled closing time today is 5 pm. Here’s the live cam courtesy of SDOT:
Vendor list and map: 3 ways to view – searchable list, PDF list, zoomable map – and if you haven’t shopped the year-round Junction merchants’ sidewalk sales, last chance! Music schedule:Here (first performance at noon, Black Bangs on the California Stage) Alaska Stage schedule: Here (first performance 1 pm, Duwamish Dixieland Jazz Band) GreenLife schedule: Here (first event 11 am, with a food-preservation presentation by Christina from Sustainable West Seattle)
We’re reporting live again throughout the day, based out of the Information Booth, where we and West Seattle Chamber of Commerce volunteers also have free WS Art Walk buttons plus flyers with handy info about other summer events including the full schedule for West Seattle Outdoor Movies (co-sponsored by WSB, as is Summer Fest), which start next weekend in the courtyard by Hotwire Online Coffeehouse (WSB sponsor).
WEST SEATTLE GARDEN TOUR: It’s happening right now! All the info about the nine open gardens and the noon lecture are in the ticket books – which you can get at the locations listed on the right side of this page. The self-guided tour is on till 5 pm today, and we can affirm from last year’s tour, umbrellas welcome. Remember, there’s an indoor event included in the ticket price too – the noon lecture at The Kenney (WSB sponsor).
YES, THE FARMERS’ MARKET IS ON: The West Seattle Farmers’ Market is always a popular feature on the final day of West Seattle Summer Fest – 10 am-2 pm at 44th/Alaska as always; just remember, if you haven’t been to The Junction during the festival, California SW is closed between Edmunds and Oregon (and part of the block between Oregon and Genesee), while SW Alaska is closed between 44th and 42nd. The Junction parking lots accessible from those streets themselves are open.
ROCKSPORT’S LAST DAY: After two nights rockin’ with Hell’s Belles, the Rocksport Bar and Grill is scheduled to close after today – one of the businesses closing/moving at California/Alaska/42nd because the Equity Residential (formerly Conner) two-building apartments/retail development is about to get under way. Unlike most of the other businesses on the block, they are *not* moving to another location; their fixtures and other items will be auctioned off on July 24th.
UPDATE – ROCKSPORT ALREADY CLOSED: There’s a sign on the door that says they sold out of food and liquor last night (we’ll add a photo to our Summer Fest coverage), so they’re not opening today – last night was it.
That’s the “live” city traffic cam at California and Alaska, which we’ll dub Summer Fest Cam for the next three days, in honor of West Seattle’s biggest party of the year, starting at 10 this morning. We’ll be reporting live throughout Summer Fest, while helping out at the central Information Booth (wave at us as you walk by, or stop to say hi!) right at that intersection. But first, to start the day, some handy Summer Fest links *and* other Friday highlights:
WEST SEATTLE SUMMER FEST LINKS: Today’s official hours are 10 am-8 pm, with the beer garden and music running later. Here’s the festival-zone map:
The main music stage is on California north of Oregon, with a few acts and other community performances/events on the “Alaska Stage” east of California. The kids’ zone is near Wells Fargo, north of Alaska and off 44th SW; GreenLife, with a focus on sustainability how-to’s (tons of demonstrations and presentations!), is west of California, north of Edmunds, on the south side.
Vendor list and map: 3 ways to browse – searchable list, PDF list, zoomable map Music schedule:Here (first performance 12:45 pm) Alaska Stage schedule: Here (first event 1 pm) GreenLife schedule: Here (first event 12:45 pm)
Also today/tonight:
FINAL WEEKEND FOR XANADU: You’re already in The Junction for Summer Fest, why not go cheer the young performers who’ve spent the past few weeks singing and acting the hearts out? “Xanadu” at ArtsWest ends its run Sunday, and tonight it’s onstage at 7:30 pm.
BOBBY DARIN TRIBUTE: At Kenyon Hall tonight, 7:30 pm, Bob De Dea salutes Bobby Darin in Singin’ and Swingin’ with Bobby D. More details on the KH website.
SUMMER FEST AFTERPARTY:Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) in Morgan Junction has live music tonight and tomorrow, billing itself as “the official WSSF aftershow party” venue – tonight at 10, it’s Gunn and the Damage Done.
Thanks to Don Brubeck for the photo! Forecast says the fog will clear away as it has the past few days – it’s peeking through even as we finish this roundup – and we should have sun for Summer Fest Eve/Art Walk/everything else happening tonight. Highlights:
JUNCTION STREETS CLOSE AT 6 PM: That’s when the West Seattle Summer Fest setup begins – since the peninsula’s biggest party of the year happens the next three days, it’s a big night of work to get ready. But also …
SUMMER FEST EVE IN THE STREETS: The setup is usually fairly low key, and that’s why fun stuff happens in the street on the night before Summer Fest, too. Bubbleman will be outside Elliott Bay, 6 pm; the Yada Yada Blues Band plays outside West 5 – as previewed here. AND …
SHOP LATE THURSDAY IN THE JUNCTION: Wander the streets AND the shops, till 9 pm, at participating merchants (listed here).
WEST SEATTLE ART WALK: In The Junction, in the Admiral District, on Alki, and other locations around West Seattle, tonight is the monthly Art Walk night, and even outside the Summer Fest zone, the spirit is more festive than ever on the July Art Walk night. Preview some of the venues and artists via the official Art Walk website; get your walking map/venue list here. Among the highlights: “Summer Lovin’,” themed John Travolta (!), group show opening at Twilight Artist Collective. 6-9 pm.
WINE CLUB AND LIVE MUSIC: At C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor; 5612 California SW):
Relax with a glass of wine and feel the warmth of Choro Tocando and the music of Brazil. Wine club meets on the 2nd Thursday of every month. Join us as we explore a new theme each month and feel free to bring an appetizer! $5.00 tasting fee or wines by the glass or bottle. 21 and older please.
WHITE CENTER (ETC.) ANNEXATION INFO MEETING: If you’re on the county side of the line and want to know more about the Burien annexation measure coming up on the November ballot, the next informational session is tonight at 6 pm, Dubsea Coffee in Greenbridge (8th SW, a block south of Roxbury).
DRUM CIRCLE ON ALKI: Second edition of this new weekly tradition. 6:30 pm, meet near the Alki Statue of Liberty. Details here.
34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS: Their agenda tonight includes a resolution related to the SODO arena proposal (read the text here). More meeting info at 34dems.org; meeting’s at 7 pm, The Hall at Fauntleroy (9131 California SW).
GENESEE-SCHMITZ NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL:Outdoor meeting tonight, on the upper playground of the Genesee Hill School campus, 7 pm.
SUMMER CONCERTS AT HIAWATHA: Tonight you’re invited to the series’ second of six free Thursday night shows presented by the 
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