(Baby “blood star,” photographed by Machel Spence – circumference of a quarter, she says)
Maybe you’ll see something like that if you walk the beach around low tide (-1.1, 10:37 am). Here are more of today/tonight’s highlights:

TRAFFIC ALERT: The road-rebuild work on SW Edmunds between California and 44th in The Junction is scheduled to continue till tonight, but the eastbound direction was to have reopened by now, leaving only the westbound side closed till they’re done. As the city’s original advisory points out, the westbound bus stop isn’t expected to reopen till tomorrow.

CAR SHOW AND CONCERT AT THE MOUNT: Classic car show tonight at Providence Mount St. Vincent (WSB sponsor) to accompany the outdoor concert featuring Danny Vernon‘s “Illusion of Elvis.” Dinner/beer/wine available starting at 5:30 pm, live music from 6:00 to 7:30 pm. 4831 35th SW.

LIVE COFFEEHOUSE MUSIC: This Volcanic Winter plays C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor), 5612 California SW, 6-8 pm.

PACKET PICKUP FOR TOMORROW’S ‘BREATHE DEEP SEATTLE’ 5K: Signed up for this first-ever lung-cancer awareness- and fund-raising 5K in Lincoln Park? Packets will be available for pickup at West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor) 4-8 pm today. Registration and race details here.

WINE FOR A CURE: At South Seattle Community College‘s Northwest Wine Academy, 5-8 pm – Wine for a Cure tasting to benefit Team Tracy‘s fundraising for the Susan G. Komen 3-Day Race for the Cure. $10 donation at the door; samples of a special selection of academy wines will be available, as will light appetizers.

SKATING AT ALKI: Friday Night Skate at Alki Community Center, 6:45-8:45 pm, $3 per person (includes skates if you don’t bring your own).

OLIVER! WEEKEND #2: Twelfth Night Productions (WSB sponsor) presents “Oliver!” at West Seattle High School Theater (3000 California SW), 7:30 pm. Tickets available at the theater, $18/adults, $15 students/seniors.

STARMITES AT ARTSWEST: Through Sunday, it’s this year’s production by the teens and tweens in the ArtsWest Summer Musical Apprenticeship Program – 7:30 pm. (Details and ticket-buying link here.)

ZIPPY’S VACATION EVE: The area’s only independent burger joint goes on vacation for nine days starting tomorrow and posted on its Facebook page that tonight after 8 pm, they’ll have a “buy one/get one free” special (with caveats – read the post) till they run out.

The largest development project in the Admiral area in years, the Safeway redevelopment, opens its first and biggest phase today – the new grocery store. (The photo above is from our sneak peek inside the store early this morning, looking toward the wine section in the store’s southeast corner.) That’s one of the highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

ADMIRAL SAFEWAY OPENING: More details ahead in a separate preview, but as announced last week, 11 months of construction are over for the store itself, and it opens to the public at noon. (2 other buildings on the site are still being completed – a small retail building, and an apartment building.) You’re also welcome at a ribboncutting at 11:30 am along the main entrance; dignitaries will include City Councilmember Tom Rasmussen. And the Toucans (steel drums) play live music 4-7 pm. 2622 California SW.

NORTHWEST WINE ACADEMY SUMMER WINE EVENT: Noon-4 pm at South Seattle Community College (6000 16th SW), featuring wines of Spain, available for tasting and purchase.

SUMMER CONCERTS AT HIAWATHA – AT ALKI, TONIGHT ONLY: Yogoman Burning Band plays by the Alki Bathhouse as the Admiral Neighborhood Association‘s “Summer Concerts at Hiawatha” series takes the show on the road, just this time, to Alki Beach. 6:30 pm, free, bring your own chair/blanket.

WEST SEATTLE ART WALK: It’s the second Thursday, and that means dozens of West Seattle businesses and studios are welcoming you to come enjoy art, and what should be a mild summer night. 6-9 pm – preview some of the artists on the official Art Walk website.

SHOP LATE IN THE JUNCTION: It’s also another edition of Shop Late Thursdays in The Junction, till 9 pm; participants’ list here.

SOUTHWEST SEATTLE BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL WOMEN MEMBERSHIP SOCIAL: Not in West Seattle, but the organization’s turf includes WS, so you’re invited! 6-8 pm, Vino Bello, 636 SW 152nd in Burien, $15/door, includes 1 glass of wine or other beverage of your choice and light appetizers. Winning raffle tickets available! Bring business cards or promotional materials for your business, a happy attitude, and meet and network with other successful women in your neighborhood. The first two people to arrive get in free, BPW says.

WINE TASTING AT C & P: C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor) wine club meets on the 2nd Thursday of every month. Everyone is welcome to join (21+), and feel free to bring an appetizer. $5.00 tasting fee or wines by the glass or bottle. 5612 California SW, 6-8 pm.

From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

LOW TIDES: Another few days of minus tides begin (here’s the monthly chart), with this morning’s low tide just after 9 am, -1.1.

KIWANIS HOSTS COUNCILMEMBER: At Be’s in The Junction at noon ,the Kiwanis Club of West Seattle will hear from Seattle City Councilmember Jean Godden. Lunch is $8; RSVP to Warren Lawless, ewl@westseattle.com or 206-938-8032.

HEALTH-CARE TALK: “Health Care Reform and Seniors” at Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon St), 12:15 pm. Learn about Medicare changes, how health-care reform is closing the prescription drug “donut hole”, new long-term care and care transition initiatives, and free preventive visits for seniors. Drop-ins welcome.

FARM-STAND PRODUCE: The High Point Market Garden Farm Stand is open 4-7 pm, 32nd Ave SW and SW Juneau. You can buy produce that’s been just picked, yards away.

ROXHILL PARK PROJECTS: Community meeting about the Roxhill Park skatespot and playground renovation, 6 pm, Southwest Library (35th/Henderson); more details in our preview.

34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS: With six days to go till the primary election, our area’s largest political group has its monthly meeting, 7 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy, 9131 California SW. (agenda here)

(Even flies can be lovely, as Machel Spence pointed out as she shared this photo)
Speaking of wings, it’s your last chance for a glimpse of the Blue Angels before they’re gone till next summer – plus other highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

BLUE ANGELS’ DEPARTURE: Scheduled from Boeing Field around 9:35 this morning. They’re off to Fargo, North Dakota.

JOB SEARCHERS, UNITE: The weekly “Notes From The Job Search” group meets for networking, advice, etc., at C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor; 5612 California SW), 11 am.

SOMALI STORY TIME: 1:30 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).

PUPPET SHOW: At the not-far-away South Park Community Center (8319 8th Avenue South), 1:30 pm: Thistle Theater presents: Brother Coyote, Sister Fox (Free, for ages 3 – 11). A delightful and humorous puppet adaptation of a beloved Mexican folktale. Brother Fox wants one thing and one thing only, to catch and eat one of Doña Conchita’s plump chickens. Quick-witted Sister Fox is always one step ahead of him, waiting to trick him with one of her clever schemes to keep all the chickens to herself! Spanish, English and yes…plenty of chickens!

FRISBEE FUN: West Seattle Ultimate Frisbee is now at Fairmount Playfield, Tuesday nights 6:30 – 8:30 pm (and Sundays 11-1).

TUESDAY TUNES: Live music at the Skylark Club and Cafe (3803 Delridge Way SW).
8 pm JAWSH ANDERSON
9 pm GRANT PEEPLES
10 pm MIKE MCGEENEY

(One of five raccoons that Carly, who shared the photo, saw enjoying fresh-on-the-tree cherries Friday)
Welcome to the quiet (post-Seafair) days of summer. Not entirely without events, though, in West Seattle and vicinity:

FREE HEALTH SCREENING: For National Health Center Week. Sea Mar in South Park is offering free screenings all week (8720 14th Ave. S) – today, body-mass index and blood pressure; King County Executive Dow Constantine also is scheduled to speak at 9 am.

LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE: … along with chocolate. And both are on the schedule 12:30 pm-1 pm Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon St). The announcement points out, “Playful silliness is good for the body, mind and soul.”

STIR IT UP: West Seattle Cooking Club‘s weekly meeting at 2 pm at Beveridge Place Pub. Theme ingredient is “herbs” – and the club now has its own website.

ALASKA KUTEEYAA DANCE: Everyone age 3 and up is welcome at the High Point Library (35th/Raymond) at 3 pm to celebrate the dances of Alaska Native tribes.

BOOK CLUB: 6:45 pm at West Seattle (Admiral) Library; this month’s book is “A Mercy” by Toni Morrison.

NDNC MONTHLY MEETING: In the park on the north side of Delridge Community Center (Delridge/Genesee), you’ll find this month’s North Delridge Neighborhood Council meeting, 6:30 pm.

FREE KICKBOXING: SIMA Martial Arts presents free “Introduction to Kickboxing” session tonight at Fairmount Playfield, 5400 Fauntleroy Way. 7:05 PM – 8:05 PM. No experience needed; any fitness level; anyone 13 and older is welcome. RSVP to 206-935-4531.

DISCOUNTED WILD WAVES TICKETS: Want to visit the water park before summer’s out? High Point Community Center has discount tickets on sale, $25 (regular price totals $40+).

(Kent Harris just shared that photo of his son Gavin, 5, “who has been a HUGE Blue Angels fan since he could barely walk. This year he unexpectedly had the fortune of meeting 2 of them! Boy, was he in shock.”)
Will the sun come out full-strength in time for the Seafair crescendo and conclusion this afternoon – not to mention other summer fun? Forecast promises eventual clearing. Here are a few of today’s highlights:

BLUE ANGELS, FLEET TOURS, HYDROS, ONE MORE TIME: It’s the last official Blue Angels show; the sun came out just in time yesterday, so a few elements of the “high” show were added to the “low” show. If you are not going to Lake Washington to watch the air show (which features other acts throughout the day) and hydroplane races, earlier WSB coverage has details on watching from close-to-West-Seattle Boeing Field/Museum of Flight (where you’ll see them takeoff and land, as well as flybys during their performance). It’s also the last day for fleet tours on the downtown waterfront (including Terminal 25, just north of the West Seattle Bridge) – details here.

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm at 44th/Alaska. Here are the highlights shared by market management:

Come on down and weigh in on our Shopper Survey from 11-1 pm! We’ll ask some basic questions about what part of Seattle folks are coming from to shop at the market and in The Junction during the same visit and ask about their winter shopping habits. We have a small but useful gift for those first 200 shoppers who take the survey! Also, Hot Cakes returns with her delicious molten chocolate and s’mores cookies! Music: Canote Brothers; Kids Tent: Yarrow Spa (edible facial recipes!)

2ND WEEK FOR NEW FOOD TRUCK: New food truck Damiana’s Blue Truck Special will be back in West Seattle from 11 am until 2 pm at 3623 SW Alaska St. (outside Dr. Terrill Harrington’s medical practice) in The Triangle.

GATEWOOD FAMILIES PLAYDATE: The Gatewood Elementary PTA is hosting its second playdate for incoming students, 1-3 pm on the Gatewood playground. Everyone is welcome. Organizers say, “This is a great way to meet new friends before school starts.” For questions, please contact Jennifer Dempsey: (206) 935-0909 or jlcather@hotmail.com

‘OLIVER!’ MATINEE: Twelfth Night Productions (WSB sponsor) presents a matinee performance of “Oliver!” at West Seattle High School Theater (3000 California SW), 3 pm today. $18 for adults/$15 for students & seniors. Can’t make this showing? Remaining dates are August 12, 13, 19 and 20 at 7:30 PM and August 14, and 21 at 3:00 PM. Full WSB announcement here

‘WE HEART TRACY DART’: Tonight is the night for the “We Heart Tracy Dart” benefit at The Bridge (4439 35th SW), 7-10 pm – details here. Donations at the door to help Tracy, who’s worked to raise money for breast-cancer research even while fighting the disease herself. Live music, drawings for great donated prizes, more. Official website here.

That’s the trailer for “Despicable Me,” one of the movies – outdoors and indoors – are among the highlights from the WSB West Seattle (and environs) Events calendar:

CLEAN UP THE PARK, AND SWIM FOR FREE! Colman Pool in Lincoln Park has partnered with the Friends of Lincoln Park to make today’s work party very special. Volunteers who work with the group removing invasive plants in the park from 9 am to noon will each receive a FREE PASS for the open swim at the pool (starts at 1:45). Meet at 9 am in the north parking lot at the kiosk across from SW Rose St. Sturdy shoes and long pants and sleeves suggested. Bring garden gloves and hand clippers, or we’ll have extras.

GARAGE SALING IN GEORGETOWN Venture over to Georgetown for its first-ever Community Garage Sale Day! 9 am-3 pm, sales all over Georgetown, See this Facebook event page – and the online map.

VOLUNTEER WITH EARTH CORPS: EarthCorps Volunteer event, Delridge Natural Area, 10 am – 2 pm. This is a Green Seattle Partnership project. EarthCorps supplies gloves, tools, water, light refreshments and a talk that covers safety, the park you are working in, forest structure, environmental restoration and the overview of the project.

A BREAK FOR P-PATCH VOLUNTEERS: No Barton Street P-Patch work party today.

VISIT THE TOOL LIBRARY: West Seattle Tool Library open at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (east side of main building) 9 am – 2 pm.

BLUE ANGELS, FLEET TOURS, AND OTHER SEAFAIR NOTES: Today and tomorrow are the official Blue Angels shows. On Friday, they did their “low show,” and if the sun doesn’t magically take over by noon or so, you can expect that again. Please see our story from Thursday re: watching them at Boeing Field/Museum of Flight (where you’ll see them takeoff and land, as well as flybys during their performance). And on the downtown waterfront (including Terminal 25, just north of the West Seattle Bridge), fleet tours continue (details here).

VISIT THE VIETNAMESE CULTURAL CENTER: Vietnamese Cultural Center (on SW Orchard north of Home Depot) open to the public, noon-3 pm.

TOUR THE CHINESE GARDEN: Free guided tours of the Seattle Chinese Garden every Saturday at 1 pm. Garden Summer Hours: Wednesday through Sunday 12:00 – 5:30 PM. Garden Admission: Free for Seattle residents, members, and children under 5. 6000 16th Avenue SW, the north entrance to South Seattle Community College. Information: www.seattlechinesegarden.org, 206-934-5219, or email info@seattlechinesegarden.org

B-GIRLS AT YOUNGSTOWN: The Queen Sweet 16 – the country’s top 16 b-girls battle it out for the crown and cash prizes. Invitational includes confirmed competitors from WA, OR, VA, TN, NV, PA, CA, MT, and internationally Vancouver, B.C.; Rome, Italy; and Japan. Prelims & Workshops: 11 am – 5 pm at Delridge Community Center (4501 Delridge Way SW). Finals: 6 – 11 pm at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW). 1 on 1 Bgirl competition, 1 on 1 all-styles exhibitions, 2 on 2 Bgirl/Bboy competition, Hip-Hop shows (New Waack City Crew/Fly 6 B Hip Hop Group (Japan)), Poppin and Locking shows. Bgirl / Hip Hop / wacking / house workshops all weekend long. Buy tickets online here.

‘DESPICABLE ME’ AT WEST SEATTLE OUTDOOR MOVIES: West Seattle Outdoor Movies is showing “Despicable Me,” the animated tale of a supervillain and his small-yet-large army (among other things). Movies start at dusk (9-ish), gates open at 6:30, courtyard next to Hotwire Online Coffeehouse (WSB sponsor), 4410 California SW. Preshow entertainment: Music by Bob “Bobcat Bob” Rice

‘FREEDOM’ AT THE ADMIRAL: Seattle theatrical premiere of Freedom, “…the jolting new documentary that takes a hard look at America’s perilous and unsustainable addiction to foreign oil”, at Admiral Theater (2343 California Avenue SW), 7 pm. Freedom features an eclectic array of personalities, including former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, former NATO commander Wesley Clark, singer/songwriter Jason Mraz, (who scored the film), international author Deepak Chopra, and such “green” actors as Ed Begley, Jr., Amy Smart and Michelle Rodriguez. The film explores the role that Ethanol plays as a homegrown alternative that will boost the domestic economy, create jobs and reduce our need to rely on dangerous and unstable parts of the world for our fuel. Tickets are $10.

OLIVER! Second night of Twelfth Night Productions‘ (WSB sponsor) presentation of “Oliver!” (with part of the proceeds benefiting Treehouse, and a school supplies/clothing drive for foster kids too). 7:30 pm, West Seattle High School Theater. $18 for adults and $15 for students & seniors.

ROY ZIMMERMAN AT KENYON HALL: At Kenyon Hall(7904 35th Ave SW): Political satirical singer/songwriter Roy Zimmerman, 7:30 pm.

TOUR THE LIGHTHOUSE: Tour the Alki Point Lighthouse, 1-4 pm Saturdays and Sundays in summer

(Paddleboarder and pooch, photographed by Eric Shalit off Alki)
Where’d the sun go? We hear it’ll be back. As for when … answers vary. So in the meantime, from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

BLUE ANGELS, FLEET TOURS, AND OTHER SEAFAIR NOTES: Obviously weather affects the Blue Angels‘ plans, and we’ll update you here (as well as via the WSB Facebook and Twitter channels) if this hasn’t lifted as noontime gets closer (the show usually starts close to 1). They have a “low show” that’s been done on cloudy days – but fog is another thing. Please see our story from last night re: watching them (and the fact this is the no-admission-charged day at Lake Washington). Also note, something the weather won’t affect – fleet tours continue (details here).

FIRST SUMMER CONCERT AT THE MOUNT: By most accounts, it should be nice at least by evening time, and that’s when you can bring your chair/blanket to Providence Mount St. Vincentfour free Friday night outdoor concerts. It’s on the south side of The Mount’s campus at 4831 35th SW. The Haggis Brothers play tonight, 6 pm (you’re welcome to come earlier and buy dinner/beer/wine if you want; free popcorn and snow cones).

DELRIDGE POTLUCK: Evening potluck – Free. (From the Adult section of the summer Seattle Parks and Rec guide.) An evening potluck followed by card playing, Scrabble, cribbage, and conversation. 6-9 pm

BIKE RACE: “Dead Baby Bikes Downhill” race leaves West Seattle this year – from Shipwreck Tavern. Registration 5 pm, race leaves 7 pm. Watch for bikes between the tavern and the bridge – possibly some congestion on Admiral too.

MUSIC AT C & P COFFEE: Tomorrow night, he’s the preshow entertainment at West Seattle Outdoor Movies; tonight, Bob “Bobcat Bob” Rice is live at C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor, 5612 California SW), 6-8 pm.

OLIVER! Opening night of Twelfth Night Productions‘ (WSB sponsor) presentation of “Oliver!” (with part of the proceeds benefiting Treehouse, and a school supplies/clothing drive for foster kids too). 7:30 pm, West Seattle High School Theater. Prices are $18 for adults and $15 for students & seniors. Full WSB announcement here

MUSIC AT KENYON HALL: At Kenyon Hall (7904 35th Ave SW): Singer/songwriter Josh Harty, 7:30 pm.

Been meaning to go look at the Denny school demolition? Time’s running out – as of yesterday afternoon, nothing’s left but part of the main building fronting on 30th SW south of SW Thistle. That work continues today, and here are other highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar;

SEAFAIR FLEET PARADE OF SHIPS TODAY: Around 1:45 pm, you should see the Seafair Parade of Ships in Elliott Bay, from north- and northeast-facing West Seattle shores, as they head to the downtown waterfront. Flyovers are planned too, in honor of the centennial of U.S. Navy aviation. Here’s our original preview listing the participating vessels – note that you may see some of them sooner; the USS Chafee, for example, is coming in this morning. Ship tours are tomorrow-Sunday. More here.

SEE THE DUWAMISH, CLOSE UP: Tonight is the next date in the 2011 Summer Community Kayak Tour series by Duwamish River Cleanup Coalition. New start time: 6 pm, running till 8:30 pm. RSVP to Alki Kayak Tours (206) 953-0237. Tours cost $45 per person, we also ask for a $5 donation per person to DRCC/TAG to support our educational programs. All equipment, instructions, and guiding are provided. Tonight, meet at Duwamish Waterway Park (7900 10th Avenue South) in South Park.

BUY FRESH PRODUCE, RIGHT WHERE IT’S GROWN – IN WEST SEATTLE: 3rd week of the High Point Market Garden Farm Stand, 4-7 pm, 32nd Ave SW and SW Juneau. This is a weekly Farm Stand selling seasonal fresh organically grown produce right in the garden where the produce is grown. Accepts Basic Food EBT cards.

LIVE IN-STORE CONCERT AT EASY STREET: Those Darlins play at 6 pm at Easy Street Records in The Junction, free, all ages.

NICK DEL CALZO AT THE KENNEY: Meet award-winning photographer Nick Del Calzo, creator and photographer of “Medal of Honor: Portraits of Valor Beyond the Call of Duty” at The Kenney (WSB sponsor; 7125 Fauntleroy Way SW), Community Room 2, 7 – 9 pm. Free and open to the public. Books will be available for purchase and personalized autographs. RSVP: Reception@TheKenney.org or 206.937.2800.

(Finally summer! Eugene shared this Sunday afternoon photo of his son at Alki)
Today’s forecast: Sunny, 70s. Highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

FIRST BLUE ANGELS ARRIVAL: The biggest week of Seafair is under way, and you may see/hear the first Blue Angels jet to arrive – #8, the two-seater, is due in this morning, with Lt. Commander Todd Royles, who is scheduled to be giving rides to pre-selected “community influencers” starting around noon. (The other Blue Angels are due in around 11 am Tuesday). As always, the Angels will be based at the Museum of Flight adjacent to Boeing Field during their Seattle stay; here’s this week’s airshow info from the Seafair website.

COUNCIL CELEBRATES GRANT RECIPIENTS: Two West Seattle groups receiving city grants from the Large Project Fund will be among those celebrated at a City Council reception at 1 pm today downtown. West Seattle CoolMom is receiving $60,000 for a “Think Outside the Car” outreach program; The New Camp Long Community Collaboration Project is receiving $100,000 for the “challenge course” that’s going in at the park.

WEST SEATTLE COOKING CLUB: Today’s theme is Middle Eastern for this informal group of cooking aficionados, meeting at 2 pm at Beveridge Place Pub (they’re on Facebook, here).

CHOOSING A CHIEF SEALTH PRINCIPAL: As previewed here, tonight is the meeting at Seattle Public Schools HQ (2445 3rd Ave. S, room 2700) downtown, 6 pm, for everyone interested in the process of helping choose a successor for Chief Sealth International High School principal John Boyd. District management says an interim principal will be appointed ASAP for the coming school year. You also are invited to participate by taking this online survey.

FAMILY STORY TIME: 7 pm tonight at the High Point branch of the Seattle Public Library (35th/Raymond) – songs, rhymes, games, and books with the children’s librarian.

(Photographed at the former Charlestown Street Café by Steve Mohundro; via WSB Flickr group)

From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar for today/tonight:

ALASKAN WAY VIADUCT CLOSURE REMINDER: It’s closed SOUTHBOUND and scheduled to reopen early tomorrow morning; if it reopens sooner, we’ll let you know here, as well as Facebook and Twitter.

COMMUNITY SCHOOL OF WEST SEATTLE YARD SALE CONTINUES: “Good stuff” left over from yesterday, so they’ve added a second day, per this WSB Forums post. Till 2 pm, 22nd/Roxbury.

FRESH FRUIT, VEGETABLES, MORE: West Seattle Farmers’ Market, open 10 am-2 pm, The Junction (44th/Alaska).

FOOD TRUCK DEBUT: New food truck Damiana’s Blue Truck Special (profiled here by Christopher Boffoli for WSB) will have its first day in West Seattle today from 11 am until 2 pm, at 3623 SW Alaska in The Triangle.

FIND A FELINE FRIEND, #2: Friends of the Animals Foundation will have volunteers on site at Next to Nature every Sunday in July from 11 am – 3 pm to help you find the perfect rescued feline companion.

TIBBETTS TALKS FOOTBALL: At 11:30 am, Warren Moon guests at Tibbetts United Methodist Church (WSB sponsor) BBQ luncheon. Free, but donations welcomed; call l the church office at 206 932-7777 if you haven’t already RSVP’d.

LOW TIDE: You won’t see this much beach in daylight hours for a while … down to -2.0 just before noon (here’s the monthly chart).

CHECKED OUT THE TOOL LIBRARY LATELY? West Seattle Tool Library open at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center space (east side of main building) 1 – 5 pm today (and every Sunday).

THE NOT-ITS AT BIG AL’S: Family Fun Day as part of 3rd birthday celebration at Big Al Brewing in White Center, with The Not-Its performing 2-4 pm (more details here).

FIND A FELINE FRIEND, #1: West Seattle’s only animal shelter, Kitty Harbor (3422 Harbor Ave SW), is open on Sundays from 2 – 6 pm.

FIGHTING FORECLOSURE? A legal expert is the guest at the group convened by Village Green Perennial Nursery owner Vera Johnson, 5 pm, Community School of West Seattle, aspreviewed here). 22nd/Roxbury.

(Parent and baby gull at Jack Block Park, photo by Melanie Dixon)
From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

FIRST, THE VIADUCT CLOSURE REMINDER: Alaskan Way Viaduct closures – northbound, 5:30-8:30 pm tonight for the Torchlight Run; southbound, 11:59 pm tonight to 5 am Monday.

OUTDOOR SWIMMING: Colman Pool continues its 7-day-a-week summer operations (pool schedule/other info here) … To see which wading pools are open since the weather is forecast for 70+ degrees, check the schedule here.

P-PATCH BAKE SALE: Barton Street P-Patch Benefit Bake Sale at Tony’s Market (35th/Barton) across from the garden, till 2 pm (Facebook event here)

BIG SALE #1: Gigantic Yard Sale till 3 p.m. Admiral Church is having a fun-raiser (that’s not a typo!)and parishioners are off-loading a ton of stuff, from furniture (some antiques) to housewares, books, craft materials, and plenty of odds and ends. You do NOT want to miss it! Everything must go – and there’s a lot of it.

BIG SALE #2: The Community School of West Seattle is holding its Annual Fundraising Yard Sale, 8 am to 5 pm. All Quality Items. LOTS of baby/children’s items. Rain or Shine. Refreshments. Items from the sale will also benefit the Nickelsville Homeless Camp, WestSide Baby and the victims of the recent apartment fire southeast of South Park.

BIG SALE #3: Duwamish Longhouse Market Day & Rummage Sale at Duwamish Longhouse (4705 W. Marginal Way SW), 9 am – 3 pm. A bit of everything: arts & crafts, estate, rummage sale, and food. Free admission/parking.

HELP BEAUTIFY BOREN: Volunteer to help paint murals at Boren School, 9 am (more info here)

HELP BUILD A RAIN GARDEN: *10 am – 2 pm* *5902 SW California Avenue*
Join Sustainable Seattle and Alleycat Acres in digging the first rain garden in the Russell Foundation funded Sustainable Rain project! Come help create this garden at a business/residence, protect the Puget Sound, and support sustainable businesses. Come for as long as you can, meet great folks, and learn about rain gardens. Bring shovel (if you have), gloves, and water to drink. Bring kids if you can supervise them.

WESTCREST NEEDS YOU: Forest restoration at Westcrest Park main entrance, 10 am – 2 pm. Join EarthCorps & the Green Seattle Partnership as we improve the health of an amazing urban forest in Southwest Seattle! We will be removing invasive plants, planting native species and performing restoration site maintenance.

DAY AT THE RACES: “Da Grind” outrigger-canoe-racing event at Alki – first race at 10:30 (details here).

BIG SALE #4: Hebert’s Den gift shop is closing; closeout “garage sale” starts 11 am, 35th and Henderson, half off everything, furniture for sale too.

FOOD TRUCK NOTE: Parfait Ice Cream will NOT be in West Seattle today (per a Facebook note late last night).

GO BEACH-WALKING: Today brings a notable low tide, -2.1 at 11:13 am (here’s the monthly chart).

WINE AND CHOCOLATE TASTING: Join Cairdeas Winery and Intrigue Chocolates for a double release as Cairdeas Winery releases their 2008 Lewis Vineyards Syrah paired with Intrigue Chocolates’ newest truffle flavor, Fortunato No. 4. Other wine and chocolate pairings to experience include:
– 2010 Nellie Mae with Intrigue’s Grains of Paradise
– 2009 Cabernet Franc with Intrigue’s Cacao
When: Saturday, July 30th from 12:00 to 5:00pm
Where: Cairdeas Winery Tasting Room, 3400 Harbor Ave S, Suite 113

SHAKESPEARE AT CAMP LONG: At 7 pm, GreenStage presents “The Tempest”, directed by Michael D. Blum. Free. Follow the crowds through the woods to the open field by the climbing rock.

PARADE DOWNTOWN: Seafair Torchlight Parade downtown (106 entries, and West Seattle Hi-Yu is #70!), stake out your spot along 4th Avenue early if you’re going, starts at Seattle Center at 7:30 pm and heads southward to the International District.

CHILL OUT TONIGHT WITH AN OUTDOOR MOVIE IN THE JUNCTION: West Seattle Outdoor Movies , showing “Airplane!” – movies start at dusk (should be around 9 pm this time), courtyard opens at 6:30 pm next to Hotwire Online Coffeehouse (WSB sponsor), 4410 California SW. Pre-show entertainment by Louie Foxx (magician). Free; bring your own chair/blanket; affordable concessions on sale, benefiting nonprofits. (WSB is a co-sponsor of the Movies on the Wall series.)

OR, ‘MOVIES ON THE LAWN’: Presented by Unique Families of Seattle
Free outdoor movie, “Brother Bear.” Arrival time: 8 pm (donations welcome), film starts around 9 pm. Put the kids in jammies and come on down! Private residence so space is limited, must RSVP to attend and get the address. E-mail joanna@uniquefamiliesofseattle.org.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BIG summer-fun day in West Seattle:

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

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

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

Also on tap:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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