(Sunday photo by David Hutchinson)
Welcome to a new week! From the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide and our regular calendar, here’s some of what’s up in the hours ahead:

CITY COUNCIL ALASKAN WAY VIADUCT BRIEFING: 9:30 am, the council is scheduled to have a two-part briefing on matters related to the Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Project and its tunnel troubles – 9:30 am, the latest on the “settling”; 9:50 am, the state of city plans for how to handle mobility if The Viaduct has to be shut down. This is the regular “briefing” meeting, so there’s no public-comment period, but it’ll be live on Seattle Channel (cable and online).

AFTERNOON BOOK GROUP: 2 pm at Southwest Branch Library, this month’s afternoon book group is reading Mary Shelley‘s “Frankenstein.” All welcome. (35th/Henderson)

CITY COUNCIL TALKS WHITE CENTER ANNEXATION: As first reported here on December 5th, the Seattle City Council is taking the first step toward calling for White Center and vicinity residents to vote on whether they want to be annexed (see the resolution here) – with the caveat that the city needs more help from the state in order to take this area on, so though they’re initiating the process, they might not follow it all the way through. This meeting does include a public-comment period at the start; it’ll also be on Seattle Channel (online and cable).

DANCE OPEN HOUSE: 3-7 pm at Kenyon Hall, meet dance teacher Vanessa Villalobos and find out about her classes. Free open house, followed by a dance party (admission charge – details in our calendar listing) at 7 pm. (7904 35th SW)

TAP TAKEOVER PARTY AT MARINATION MA KAI: 5-8 pm, kickoff party as Marination ma kai (WSB sponsor) starts a week with Stoup Brewing taking over all its taps. Meet the brewers; check out the special menu items; details in our calendar listing. (1660 Harbor SW)

‘DOWNWIND’ BOOK LAUNCH/FUNDRAISER: As previewed here on Sunday, local author Sarah Alisabeth Fox will be at Skylark tonight for a launch party and fundraiser as she gets the word out about her book “Downwind,” the result of a decade of research. More in our calendar listing. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

CHRISTMAS SHIP AT SALTY’S: 9:15-9:35 pm at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor), it’s the final West Seattle visit of the Christmas Ship, this time with the Holy Names Academy Choir on board. (1936 Harbor SW)

MORE … for today/tonight, on our calendar!

(WSB photo from Alki, while we awaited the Christmas Ship visit Saturday night)
Happy Sunday! From the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide and ongoing regular calendar:

ARTS/CRAFTS FAIR: C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor) Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair, 9 am-2 pm again today. Local arts and crafts!

Photo above shared on Saturday by Jen from Village Mouse. (5612 California SW)

CHRISTMAS MUSICAL: The youth of West Side Presbyterian Church present the musical “The Night I Heard the Angels Sing,” 9:30 am and 4:30 pm. Admission free, all welcome! (3601 California SW)

CARRIAGE RIDES: As part of Hometown Holidays in The Junction, 10 am-2 pm.

(WSB photo from last Sunday)
“Take a carriage ride down California Avenue pulled by beautiful Belgian Draft Mules. A treat the whole family and friends will enjoy. Stop off at the Farmers Market for complimentary hot apple cider.” (California/Alaska)

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm, fresh local food/drink year-round. (44th/Alaska)

PATHFINDER’S HANDMADE WREATHS: Right around the corner from the Farmers’ Market, it’s the last of three Sundays that Pathfinder K-8 is raising money for Outdoor Education Programs by selling holiday wreaths “handcrafted by our students, faculty, and parents with locally donated greens. 100% of what we make goes directly into the classroom.” 10 am-2 pm. (SW corner of California/Alaska)

SANTA PAWS Pet-photo opportunity at West Seattle Windermere, 11 am-1 pm, bring a nonperishable-food donation. (4526 California SW)

COAT DRIVE AND SANTA PHOTOS: Mountain to Sound Outfitters in The Triangle, noon-4 pm. (Photo added, sent by Greg @ M2SO:)

“Bring a coat to donate and get a picture with Santa Claus. We will be accepting donations of coats (any size) to benefit the West Seattle Helpline. There will also be hot cocoa and photos with Santa on our chair lift.” (3602 SW Alaska)

BRIDGE ANNIVERSARY: The Bridge is celebrating its first anniversary in its new location with door prizes and more, through today’s Seahawks-49ers game, which kicks off around 1:25 pm. (California/Graham)

GIFT WRAPPING: Furry Faces Foundation will “Wrap It Up” again! Gift wrapping for donations, first of several sessions is today, 2 pm-7 pm at Beveridge Place Pub. It’s a nonprofit fundraiser and they’re still welcoming volunteers – details are in this post in the WSB Forum. (6413 California SW)

FINAL PERFORMANCE FOR ‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’: 3 pm matinee is the closing performance for Twelfth Night Productions‘ “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” at Kenyon Hall. Buy your ticket(s) online at brownpapertickets.com/event/917572 or an hour before showtime at the venue box office. (7904 35th SW)

‘JUDY’S SCARY LITTLE CHRISTMAS’: 3 pm matinee at ArtsWest (WSB sponsor) in The Junction. Buy tickets online here. (4711 California SW)

HANUKKAH TASTING EVENT: 3-6 pm at Metropolitan Market-Admiral, including latkes and brisket. (41st/42nd/Admiral)

LADIES’ MUSICAL CLUB: Free concert at West Seattle (Admiral) Branch Library, 3 pm, featuring the music of Schubert and Brahms. (2306 42nd SW)

FAUNTLEROY CHRISTMAS CONCERT: 4 pm at Fauntleroy Church: Choirs from Fauntleroy UCC and Peace Lutheran, plus local instrumentalists. (9140 California SW)

CARTOONING SANTA: 5-8 pm at Luna Park Café. Third year for the “Santa” who also happens to be the café’s artist/muralist. He’ll be there “in his Santa chair, drawing cartoon pictures of elves, snowmen, and reindeer, and he’ll even take requests! Personalized pictures signed from Santa. … There is NO CHARGE, and never a very long line! We play Christmas music, hand out Christmas cookies, and the staff dresses up in their red and green best.” Food and drink specials for the occasion, too. (2918 SW Avalon Way)

GINGERBREAD-HOUSE BUILDING: Annual tradition @ West Seattle Christian Church Activity Center, 5 pm. (4400 42nd SW)

WINTER/HOLIDAY CONCERT: Carmina Angelorum: songs for harp & treble voices, 7 pm at Holy Rosary Church: “An evening concert of elegant music celebrating winter and the holiday season, featuring harpist Juliet Stratton and the young women of Prime Voci and Cantamus of Seattle Girls’ Choir. Works by Benjamin Britten, Zoltán Kodály, James Bingham, and Paul Carey to be performed.” Details in our calendar listing. (42nd/Genesee)

‘THE CHRISTMAS POST’: Last chance to see “The Christmas Post,” annual dessert theater at Westwood Christian Community. 7 pm. Admission free, as are the desserts. Child care for babies/toddlers. (9252 16th SW)

HOLY ROSARY TREE LOT’S FINAL WEEKEND: Until 9 pm tonight, or while the trees last, it’s the last scheduled day for the Holy Rosary Tree Lot (WSB sponsor), north of the school.

(WSB photo from this year’s first weekend @ Holy Rosary Tree Lot)
Part of this lot’s proceeds benefit West Seattle Helpline, Hickman House (domestic-violence shelter), and West Seattle Food Bank. (41st/Dakota)

LOOK INTO THE FUTURE … via the Holiday Guide and regular calendar!

(2012 WSB photo by Nick Adams)
The Christmas Ship makes two West Seattle stops today/tonight! That’s on our list of highlights from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide and our regular calendar:

C & P CRAFT FAIR: C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor) Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair, 9 am-3 pm.

(Added: Photo shared by Melanie)
Local arts and crafts! (5612 California SW)

SANTA AT JF HENRY: Santa Al will be at JF Henry (WSB sponsor) 10 am-1 pm; bring your own camera or get a photo for $5. (4445 California SW)

CHOIR CONCERT: Endolyne Children’s Choir (WSB sponsor) presents its “Winter Fantasy” concert, 11 am at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church. Tickets $7 adults/$5 children, at the door. (California/Hanford)

SANTA AT CAPERS: Noon-3 pm, DIY Santa Photos at CAPERS in The Junction, with “ex-Westwood Santa.” Bring cameras/phones, kids/friends, and a donation for the West Seattle Food Bank. (4525 California SW)

‘THE CHRISTMAS POST’: annual dessert theater at Westwood Christian Community. 1 pm & 7 pm. Admission free, as are the desserts. (9252 16th SW)

(added) HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, THE BRIDGE! The Bridge is celebrating its 1st anniversary in its new location starting at 3 pm today, continuing through tomorrow’s Seahawks game, with door prizes and more. (California/Graham)

CHRISTMAS SHIP MAKES 2 WEST SEATTLE STOPS: Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship in West Seattle! 4:20-4:40 at Lowman Beach, 5:10-5:30 pm at Alki, where you’ll find these onshore festivities:

The Seattle Parks Department and Advisory Councils of the Southwest Geo district are proud to host the annual Argosy Christmas Ship arrival at Alki Beach. Music, cookies, and hot drinks will be served at the Alki Bathhouse. Music is provided by the Endolyne Children’s Choir and Hope Lutheran Church Choir. The music starts at 4 pm and the ship arrives at 5:10 pm and will perform for 20 minutes. After the ship departs, live music continues in the Bathhouse until 6 pm.. The entire event is free to the public.

(60th/Alki)

‘COOKIES AND CIDER ON THE PORCH’: Before, during, and after the Alki Christmas Ship visit, stop by the Log House Museum, 4-6 pm. Refreshments at the home of West Seattle history and a discount on items in LHM gift shop during the event! (61st/Stevens)

ROLLER DERBY DEBUT: First bout for Southside Revolution Junior Roller Derby – it’s the new league’s “Holiday Bash,” 5:15-9 pm, Southside Roller Rink. (9646 17th SW)

PARTY WITH A PURPOSE: RISE Now hosts this 6 pm fundraiser with performances, small plates and drinks, and more at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center – details in our calendar listing. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

FAUNTLEROY CHURCH CHRISTMAS CONCERT: 7:30 pm at Fauntleroy UCC, featuring choirs from Fauntleroy UCC and Peace Lutheran, plus local instrumentalists. (9140 California SW)

‘JUDY’S SCARY LITTLE CHRISTMAS’: Go back to 1959 with Judy Garland and fellow stars in the holiday show at ArtsWest in The Junction, 7:30 pm Buy tickets online here. (4711 California SW)

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A LIVE RADIO PLAY’: Second-to-last performance for Twelfth Night Productions‘ holiday show, “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play.” 7:30 pm at Kenyon Hall. Buy your ticket(s) online at brownpapertickets.com/event/917572 or an hour before showtime at the venue box office. (7904 35th SW)

‘HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS’: Benefit for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, 8 pm at OutWest Bar. Details on this Facebook event page. (California/Brandon)

VELVETEEN LOTHARIOS: 9 pm, go retro at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) – details here. (6451 California SW)

METEORS! Peak of the Geminids – as explained in Alice Enevoldsen‘s most recent “Skies Over West Seattle.”

LOTS MORE on the calendar!

(©2014 – Eric Shalit, www.boxturtledesign.com – taken 5:30 pm Thursday)
Our spotlight photo today is from “the calm before the storm,” but as we look ahead, the weather’s calmed down and we’re headed into another big holiday weekend. Most of what’s below is from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide – which lists what’s up through New Year’s – but we also have highlights from our regular ongoing calendar:

LITTLE PILGRIM SCHOOL TOY DRIVE: The Holiday Guide features a growing list of giving opportunities, but some are in their final days, like this one. Today is the final day of the Little Pilgrim preschoolers’ collection of toys to donate to the Salvation Army – you are invited to help by dropping off toys at Fauntleroy Church. (9140 California SW)

FREE PROFESSIONAL SANTA PHOTOS AND MORE @ HOMESTREET: HomeStreet Bank (WSB sponsor) celebrates its one-year anniversary in West Seattle today, 3-6 pm, featuring free professional photos (courtesy of Gail Ann Photography) with Santa Al, a hot cocoa bar, warm apple cider, holiday treats and more! Please bring a non-perishable food item to donate to the West Seattle Food Bank. (41st/Alaska)

LAFAYETTE CRAFT FAIR: Tonight, a unique chance to shop for student-made gifts and decorations – it’s the Lafayette Elementary Craft Fair – and the community is invited!

(Some of the creations you’ll find available for purchase – photo courtesy Edgar Riebe)
The fair is on from 5-8 pm. (California/Lander)

HIGH-SCHOOL BASKETBALL, WSHS VS. SEALTH: 6:30 pm at West Seattle High School, it’s the only scheduled matchup this season between the WSHS and Chief Sealth International High School girls-varsity basketball teams. Fill the gym to cheer them on! (3000 California SW)

DENNY POSADA: Posada Navideña at 6:30 pm at Denny International Middle School, as tweeted:

(2601 SW Kenyon)

‘THE CHRISTMAS POST’: All are welcome at the annual dessert-theater show at Westwood Christian Community. 7 pm. Admission free, as are the desserts. (9252 16th SW)

BELLS OF THE SOUND: Come see and hear Puget Sound’s premier handbell ensemble, Bells of the Sound, at Tibbetts United Methodist Church (WSB sponsor), 7:30 pm. This year’s holiday concert is themed “A Winter’s Night.” Find show and ticket details here. (3940 41st SW)

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRAS: 7:30 pm, “Celebrate!” is West Seattle Community Orchestras‘ first of two seasonal concerts – WSCO Symphony Orchestra and Wind Symphony at Chief Sealth International High School auditorium – program details in our calendar listing. (2600 SW Thistle)

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’: Join Twelfth Night Productions this holiday season for “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play.”

(Photo courtesy Twelfth Night Productions)
Showtime tonight is 7:30 pm at Kenyon Hall. Buy your ticket(s) online at brownpapertickets.com/event/917572 or an hour before showtime at the venue box office. (7904 35th SW)

P.S. If you’re shopping tonight/this weekend for your Christmas tree, locations are listed in the Holiday Guide, including this one with just a few days to go:

HOLY ROSARY TREE LOT’S FINAL WEEKEND: Until 9 pm tonight, the last Friday night for the Holy Rosary Tree Lot (WSB sponsor), north of the school. Part of this lot’s proceeds benefit West Seattle Helpline, Hickman House (domestic-violence shelter), and West Seattle Food Bank. (41st/Dakota)

MORE FOR TONIGHT AND BEYOND … on our calendar!

(WSB photos: High tide this morning at Alki. No flooding, just high water)
Here are the highlights for today/tonight from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and Holiday Guide:

GET OUT OF THE (HOME) OFFICE! Go meet your fellow independent workers at West Seattle Office Junction (WSB sponsor) – noon-1 pm, it’s the weekly, free co-working/home-office meetup. (6040 California SW)

WEST SEATTLE SINGING GROUP: Just go sing! All are welcome at this monthly event at the Senior Center of West Seattle, 5 pm.

FREE COMMUNITY STAIR CLINIC: 6:30-8 pm at Alki X-Gym (WSB sponsor): “Join PJ Glassey as he gives his insider knowledge about the success he’s gained through stair climbing,” especially helpful if you’re training for the Big Climb Seattle or similar events. Check ASAP to see if there are any spots left – e-mail PJ at pjxgym@gmail.com. (3213 Harbor SW)

34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS’ HOLIDAY PARTY: In place of the regular monthly meeting, it’s a time to celebrate, for members and their families/guests. 6:30 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy; details on the group’s website. (9131 California SW)

BOOZE, JINGLE BALLS, AND BINGO – BENEFIT! Drag bingo for charity, 7 pm at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) – details in our calendar listing. (6451 California SW)

‘JUDY’S SCARY LITTLE CHRISTMAS’: Holiday production continues tonight at ArtsWest (WSB sponsor) in The Junction, 7:30 pm. Buy tickets online here. (4711 California SW)

(Yellow-rumped warbler, photographed by Trileigh Tucker)
From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and WS Holiday Guide, highlights for the day/night ahead:

CITY COUNCIL TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE: The meeting that’s under way right now (viewable via Seattle Channel, online or cable) is scheduled to include a review of last June 10’s Highway 99 closure and what was learned from it – see the agenda for document links; that review is scheduled to start around 10:30 am.

TEEN PROGRAM SHOWCASE: 4:30-6:30 pm, the youth at Neighborhood House’s High Point Center are showing off what they’ve been working on this semester; you’re invited to drop in to see! (6400 Sylvan Way)

MVP MALCOLM SMITH AT WEST SEATTLE THRIFTWAY: Seahawks fans, come meet Malcolm Smith, Super Bowl MVP, 6-8 pm! West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor) tells us he’ll be signing posters that’ll be provided at the event. (California/Fauntleroy/Morgan)

WEST SEATTLE TRANSPORTATION COALITION: 6:30 pm at Neighborhood House’s High Point Center, with two major agenda topics – first, what’s the transportation plan for West Seattle in case of emergency that cuts off the regular routes? And second, another chance to offer your thoughts on the proposed rerouting of RapidRide C Line in The Junction, up California between Edmunds and Alaska instead of its westward jog to 44th SW. (6400 Sylvan Way SW)

NIGHTLIFE, NIGHTLIFE, NIGHTLIFE – Tuesday’s a busy night for regular events – see the calendar for venues/listings!

(Photo by Jake Jaramillo)
Thanks to everyone who shared photos of this morning’s sunrise! We’re sharing two with these calendar highlights for today/tonight:

ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP: Are you caring for someone with Alzheimer’s/dementia? Support group meets 1:30 pm today, Providence Mount St. Vincent – details here. (4531 35th SW)

CITY COUNCIL’S VIADUCT COMMITTEE: It’s a regularly scheduled meeting, but with the past three days’ disclosures, there’s a lot to talk about. Right after the Council’s 2 pm meeting, which means approximately 2:30 pm. Live on Seattle Channel (online or cable), if you can’t be at City Hall.

DELRIDGE GROCERY UPDATE: What’s the status of the co-op grocery planned for the commercial space at Cottage Grove Commons? A Delridge Grocery board member is on the agenda for tonight’s 6:30 pm monthly meeting of the North Delridge Neighborhood Council at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

(Photo by Lise Thivierge)
EVENING BOOK GROUP: 6:45 pm at Southwest Branch Library; Jeannette Walls‘ “The Glass Castle” is this month’s book. Everyone’s welcome. (35th/Henderson)

HI-YU JUNIOR COURT CORONATION: All are invited to come celebrate the new West Seattle Hi-Yu Junior Court, 7 pm at Admiral Congregational Church. Past Hi-Yu court members are especially welcome to come show their support. (California/Hill)

AND THERE’S MORE … on the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar. (And when you have a few minutes, browse ahead to see what’s happening later this week in our West Seattle Holiday Guide!)

(Olympics, Vashon & Blake Islands, Sunday photo by Christopher Frankovich)
This weekend is full of holiday fun, and it starts tonight, as listed in the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide (which has events and info stretching all the way to New Year’s) – we’ll go through the holiday events first, followed by the non-holiday highlights:

FESTIVUS PARTY: West Seattle Tool Library and Sustainable West Seattle‘s Festivus-themed holiday party, 5-9 pm at SODO Maker Space – details in our calendar listing. (1914 Occidental Ave. S.)

SEATTLE SAMPLING: 3-day holiday arts/crafts tour with 4 of the 10 studios in West Seattle: Brace Point Pottery, Village Green Nursery, Ceramistas Seattle, Penguina Designs. 4-9 pm tonight; detailed tour information at seattlesampling.com.

CORNER BAR, FEATURING UGLY SWEATER CONTEST: Holiday fun tonight during HPIC’s Corner Bar – ugly-sweater contest with a prize! Live music with Sundae & Mr. Gossel. More details here – bring nonperishable-food donations. 6 pm, Highland Park Improvement Club. P.S. Looking for truly LOCAL gifts? Highland Park hoodies on sale. (12th/Holden)

HUSKY DELI OPEN HOUSE The legendary Husky Deli holiday open house, with samples and smiles, 6-9 pm. (4721 California SW)

DECK THE HALLS: Community celebration and tree blessing at Holy Rosary School, 6-8 pm, including: Hot Cocoa Bar, Christmas Desserts, Festive Christmas Crafts, adult beverages, Dante’s Inferno Gourmet Hot Dogs, and an indoor snowball competition! (Tree blessing set for around 6:40 pm.) Bring nonperishable food to donate. (42nd/Genesee)

LIGHT UP THE NIGHT: New format as Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish & School invites you to “Light Up the Night: An Evening of Caroling and Community,” with lights – not the big tree this year, something new! – singalong, and food drive (fill the sleigh in the parish center just north of the church). 7 pm. (35th/Myrtle)

DANCE! Highland Park Elementary‘s annual winter dance, 7-8:30 pm in the cafeteria. “Music will be provided by DJ Danny F, Yuen Lui will be on hand to take family portraits, and there will be baked goods for sale. Admission is $2 per person, or $5 per family. We would love to see you there!” (10th/Trenton)

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’: Join Twelfth Night Productions this holiday season for the radio-play edition of the much-loved holiday tale, 7:30 pm at Kenyon Hall. Buy your ticket(s) online at brownpapertickets.com/event/917572 or an hour before showtime at the venue box office. (7904 35th SW)

‘JUDY’S SCARY LITTLE CHRISTMAS’: Holiday production continues tonight at ArtsWest (WSB sponsor) in The Junction, 7:30 pm. Buy tickets online here. (4711 California SW)

And from the regular WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

WORDS, WRITERS, WEST SEATTLE: The monthly Southwest Seattle Historical Society-presented event is set for 5-7 pm at Westwood Village Barnes & Noble, this time around featuring children’s-books author Karen Robbins and illustrator Sally Marts. They’ll talk about their collaboration – with kids from around the country – on “Shoe Print Art: Step Into Drawing.” More details in our calendar listing. P.S. SWSHS gets a share of B&N purchases made by attendees! (2800 SW Barton)

NIGHTTIME TIDEPOOL WALK: Seattle Parks presents a low-tide beach walk at Emma Schmitz Memorial Overlook (across from Me-Kwa-Mooks) tonight, 9 pm-10:30 pm. You have to register in advance – our calendar listing explains how. Low tide is -1.9 just after 10 pm. (4503 Beach Drive SW)

(added) ANOTHER NIGHTTIME TIDEPOOL WALK: The Seattle Aquarium has one tonight too – 9 to 10:30 pm at Constellation Park south of Alki Point, free, hot chocolate too. Details here.

Thanks to Mark Wangerin for the photo of sanderlings huddled on a scrap of beach not swamped by the Tuesday high tide (our Instagram video caught the wind/waves, though nothing near Saturday’s scale). By the way, we’re told his West Seattle Wildlife benefit calendar is all but sold out – you might inquire at West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor) about a possible few remaining copies. Meantime, speaking of calendars, today’s highlights from ours:

HOME OFFICE/CO-WORKING MEETUP: Work outside the traditional office setting? Noon-1 pm on Wednesdays, you’re welcome to join the home office/co-working (etc.) meetup at West Seattle Office Junction (WSB sponsor), as explained here. (6040 California SW)

SEATTLE SCHOOL BOARD: At district HQ in SODO – 4 pm meeting, 5 pm public comment, 6 pm action items – including introduction of proposal to make interim superintendent Dr. Larry Nyland permanent, and boundary-change discussion. Here’s the agenda, with internal links including Dr. Nyland’s recent evaluation and the boundary-change presentation. (3rd Ave. S./Lander)

‘CRACKING THE CODES’: As the Ferguson situation has intensified discussions of racial inequity coast to coast, a new film/discussion series starts in West Seattle tonight, with a screening of “Cracking the Codes: The System of Racial Inequity.” Here’s an excerpt:

Facilitated discussion to follow. Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

SOUTHWEST DISTRICT COUNCIL: 6:30 pm at Senior Center of West Seattle, short business meeting before holiday mingling, with refreshments. Public welcome. (Oregon/California)

KIWANIS CLUB OF WEST SEATTLE: Now meeting at 6:30 pm Wednesdays at Senior Center of West Seattle. Interested in finding out who’s in Kiwanis and what the club does in the community? Drop in for the meeting. And/or go to the annual Community Pancake Breakfast this Saturday – see the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide for details on that! (Oregon/California)

WHAT ELSE IS UP? Check out the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and Holiday Guide for today/tonight/beyond.

This is our last freezing-cold morning for a while, so we’re sharing Karen‘s icicle photo (thank you!) along with today’s list of calendar highlights:

VIADUCT/HIGHWAY 99 ADVISORY GROUP: The quarterly-or-so meeting of the merged stakeholder groups is at 4 pm today at Safeco Field (entrance by the home-plate gate).

WESTWOOD-ROXHILL-ARBOR HEIGHTS COMMUNITY COUNCIL: Some councils are taking December off, but not WWRHAH – so if you live and/or work in any of those neighborhoods, don’t miss it! 6:15-7:40 pm at Southwest Branch Library. Agenda:

6:15-6:30: Introductions & Community News; New Business

6:30-7:10: Committee & Neighborhood Council Updates – Metro Committee, Infrastructure Committee (35th SW, bus-loop pavement issues), Bog Committee, Roxhill Park Committee, DNDC, SWDC

7:10-7:40: Housing Affordability: The Mayor’s Housing Affordability and Livability Agenda is a hot topic for the City. We will discuss this, as well as the Westwood / Highland Park Urban Village.

WEST SEATTLE BIKE CONNECTIONS: Also meeting tonight, 6:30 pm at HomeStreet Bank (WSB sponsor) in The Junction. Details on the WSBC website. (41st/Alaska)

FAMILY STORY TIME: 7 pm at Delridge Branch Library – songs, rhymes, AND stories. (5423 Delridge Way SW)

BLUES TO DO: 8 pm at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), tonight it’s Sweet Billy Spaulding & His Soulful 88s. Details in our calendar listing. (6451 California SW)

MORE!!!! Full list of today/tonight events on our regular calendar, and ongoing listings including nightly light shows and tree lots are part of the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide (which you’ll want to browse to preview the MANY, MANY, MANY events coming up next weekend).

(Junco, photographed by Trileigh Tucker)
Our featured photos today were shared over the weekend after our brief snowfall – but also serve as a reminder to check your bird bath(s) and feeder(s) on behalf of our winged friends, since temperatures have been (mostly) freezing/subfreezing for going on two days now. Meantime, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and Holiday Guide:

TRASH/RECYCLING/ETC. RATES: Today’s 2 pm City Council meeting at City Hall downtown includes a final vote on rate increases for trash/recycling/yard waste and other solid-waste services – see the tables in the legislation. (600 Fourth Ave.)

HOLIDAY COOKIE DECORATING: Check to see if there’s room left in this 6 pm workshop at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor) – details including contact info for reservations are in our calendar listing. (1936 Harbor SW)

(Hummingbird, photographed by Karen Richter)

INTERIM SUPERINTENDENT ‘COFFEE CHAT’: As previewed here earlier this morning, interim Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Larry Nyland, now suddenly up for the permanent job, will be at Neighborhood House’s High Point Center, 6-7 pm, for a community “coffee chat,” scheduled before the new development regarding his status. (6400 Sylvan Way)

SCHOOL BOARD REP’S COMMUNITY CONVERSATION: In addition to joining Dr. Nyland during his “chat,” West Seattle’s school-board rep Marty McLaren will have one of her periodic community-conversation meetings immediately afterward, 7 pm, also at High Point Center. (6400 Sylvan Way)

WEST SEATTLE HI-YU: The summer festival’s work is never done, and they’d love to have your help and participation. Just stop by tonight’s monthly meeting, 7 pm at Admiral Congregational Church. (California/Hill)

(Hummingbird, photographed by Debbie Runke)
NIGHTLIFE: Trivia, pub quiz, karaoke … see the individual venues/listings on our calendar.

HOLIDAY GUIDE: Tonight – see the lights now that the major displays are all on! They’re part of what you’ll find in our guide, along with tree-lot locations, upcoming holiday parties/tree lightings/open houses/Santa photos/concerts, and more … we’re updating it at least once daily as events and schedules continue to be added.

(Snowy Olympics at sunrise – photo by Don Brubeck)
With chilly sunshine and a little snow on the ground here and there in the shade, the final day of the four-day holiday weekend is getting into gear. From the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide and our ongoing daily calendar:

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm, year-round. (44th/Alaska)

And while you’re in The Junction:

PATHFINDER’S HANDMADE WREATHS: Available again this year, for three Sundays starting today, 10 am-2 pm (photo added 1 pm):

“Pathfinder K-8 would like to thank the West Seattle Community for supporting our Outdoor Education Programs through the purchase of our Holiday Wreaths. … Our wreaths are handcrafted by our students, faculty, and parents with locally donated greens. 100% of what we make goes directly into the classroom.” (California/Alaska)

Elsewhere around West Seattle:

DUWAMISH NATIVE HOLIDAY GIFT FAIR, DAY 3: 10 am-4:30 pm, last chance to find unique gifts made and sold by Native American artists and crafters at the Duwamish Tribe Longhouse. Here’s our report from Friday. (4705 W. Marginal Way SW)

WREATH-MAKING WORKSHOP: Free workshop at Highland Park Improvement Club, 3-5 pm. Bring your own greens and tools, as explained here. All welcome. (12th/Holden)

ALL-AGES OPEN MICROPHONE: Last Sunday of the month is this popular event at Skylark Café, free all-ages open microphone, signups at 3, performances start at 4. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

MENASHE FAMILY LIGHTS West Seattle’s biggest and brightest light display is scheduled to officially go on for the season around 6 tonight. And as explained in our preview from last week, bring that letter to Santa! (5605 Beach Drive SW)

MORE LIGHTS … Been to see West Seattle Lights or West Seattle Yuletide yet? Both continue tonight (and through December), and you’ll find the info in our West Seattle Holiday Guide.

(Big waves at Alki again this morning – thanks to Meredith Jones for the photo)
After a snowy morning, the sun’s out! So we’re getting on with the first big Saturday of the holiday season, moving on to highlights from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide and our ongoing daily calendar:

SHOP LOCAL! We hope you will shop local EVERY DAY this holiday season (and nights, too – the first holiday-season Shop Late Thursday in The Junction is coming up December 4th, 6-9 pm). Our Holiday Guide includes a list of info from West Seattle businesses who answered our open call to share info on some of their holiday highlights. especially for this first weekend of shopping.

DUWAMISH NATIVE HOLIDAY GIFT FAIR, DAY 2: Native American artists and crafters are filling the Duwamish Tribe Longhouse in West Seattle again today, until 4:30 pm. We stopped by on Friday:

That’s some of what artist Khobie Niccia Alexander is selling. (4705 W. Marginal Way SW)

GIVE BLOOD: Supply runs low during the holidays, so if you can donate, please do – you’ll find the Bloodmobile at Westwood Village until 3:30 pm today, and walkups are welcome, except during the 11:30-12:30 break. (2600 SW Barton)

SANTA DEBUTS AT CAPERS: DIY Santa Photos at CAPERS in The Junction, with “ex-Westwood Santa.” Bring cameras/phones, kids/friends, and a donation for the West Seattle Food Bank. Noon-3 pm. (4525 California SW)

GIFT WRAPPING FOR A GOOD CAUSE: The West Seattle High School National Honor Society is wrapping gifts for donations 6-10 pm tonight in the foyer at Barnes and Noble in Westwood Village. Donations benefit the club’s “future endeavors into the realm of volunteering.” (2600 SW Barton)

GARY BENSON AT C & P: Get cozy at the coffeehouse and enjoy live music tonight, 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

JAZZ AT KENYON HALL: 7:30 pm, Market Street Dixieland Jass Band is in the house at historic Kenyon Hall.

AND THERE’S MORE … light shows and tree-shopping, for starters – in our Holiday Guide, plus more nightlife on our regular calendar!

(Golden-crowned kinglet, photographed by Trileigh Tucker)
A few notes for the rest of today:

ONLY A DRILL: The King County Sheriff’s Office confirms this tactical drill is still on for today despite the murky weather. So just FYI, you might notice some helicopter/maritime traffic passing here en route to Des Moines.

ARTS/CRAFTS AND BAKE SALE: The “mini-Harvest Festival” sale at the Senior Center of West Seattle is under way until 1 pm. (Oregon/California)

WEST SEATTLE LAND USE COMMITTEE: 6:30 pm at the Senior Center of West Seattle, the still-fledgling committee meant to take a peninsula-wide view of issues related to development and zoning has its next meeting, and it’s still in the formative stages – all are more than welcome, even if just to sit and observe. (Oregon/California)

LADIES SING THE BLUES: 8 pm, special all-star edition of Blues To Do at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) – details in our calendar listing. (6451 California SW)

PLANNING FOR THANKSGIVING? LOOKING AHEAD? The WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide has dozens and dozens of listings and infobits to help you find everything holidayish on this side of the bay.

(Sanderlings, photographed by Mark Wangerin; click picture to see larger image)
From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, what’s up today/tonight …

FOOD DRIVE’S FINAL DAY @ MARINATION: If you’re heading to Marination ma kai (WSB sponsor) at Seacrest – or anyplace else in the vicinity – take a nonperishable item for the final day of the donation drive at ma kai. They’re open until 8 pm today. (1660 Harbor SW)

FOOD BANK DONATIONS: White Center Food Bank is open until 5 pm today and welcomes dropped-off donations – turkeys, other food, money, whatever you can spare as the holiday nears. (10829 8th SW)

WSHS GIRLS’ BASKETBALL BENEFIT: West Seattle Booster Club, which supports WS High School athletics, is hosting a girls-basketball benefit 5-8 pm tonight at Pecado Bueno in The Junction, all-you-can-eat taco bar for $15 (kids under 12 are $10), with proceeds benefiting their work to help the program. They’re promising a “fun family environment with raffle giveaways!” (4523 California SW)

KIDS’ ONLINE SAFETY: As previewed here last night, your family (including kids 9 and up) is invited to a presentation about online safety, 7 pm tonight at the Chief Sealth International High School auditorium, presented by the Denny International Middle School PTSA. (2600 SW Thistle)

IT’S NOT THAT TRIVIAL: Monday’s the night for trivia/quizzes at multiple West Seattle venues, including Christo’s, OutWest, Shadowland, and Skylark. Go directly to our calendar for times/maps.

CHECKED OUT OUR WEST SEATTLE HOLIDAY GUIDE YET? From turkeys to trees to tree lightings, singalongs, bazaars, plays, Christmas Ship visits, Santa photos … explore the season’s wonders here.

(Saturday night sunset reflection, seen from Seacrest: WSB photo by Patrick Sand)
From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide:

TURKEY DRIVE: Until noon, drop off one or more turkeys for the White Center Food Bank at Fauntleroy Church – WCFB is outside with a refrigerated van to happily accept your donation. (9140 California SW)

ARTS & CRAFTS SALE PLUS CRECHE EXHIBIT: Until 2 pm, second and final day for this newly expanded annual event at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church – handmade holiday items for sale, plus a chance to see an exhibit of creches. (California/Hanford)

(added) OPEN/MASTERS CROSS-COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS: As pointed out in comments, big USA Track & Field-sponsored event today at Lincoln Park, starting at 10 am – details here.

(back to original) FAIR TRADE SALE: The annual Fair Trade and Bake Sale at Our Lady of Guadalupe is under way now until 1 pm – details in our calendar listing. (35th/Myrtle)

J.F. HENRY OPEN HOUSE, DAY 2: 10 am-5 pm, second day of the big Holiday Open House at J.F. Henry Cooking and Dining (WSB sponsor) in The Junction. Deals, demonstrations, treats, more – see who and what will be there and when, by going here. (4445 California SW)

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: Last session of the WSFM before Thanksgiving, 10 am-2 pm. (added – we spotted greenery!)

(44th/Alaska)

CLOTHING-DONATION DROPOFFS AT VIETNAMESE CULTURAL CENTER: Again this year, West Seattle’s Vietnamese Cultural Center is going to spend Thanksgiving helping homeless people, and they’d love to have your help, via donations of clothing/socks/etc. You can drop the items off 11 am-5 pm, at the center. (2236 SW Orchard)

GREAT BIG BAZAAR: Noon-3 pm, second day of the Great Big Bazaar at Peace Lutheran Church in Gatewood – details in our calendar listing. (39th/Thistle)

TAILGATE PARTY AT HPIC: Doors open at noon, game time at 1 pm, potluck tailgate party at Highland Park Improvement Club – details here. (12th/Holden)

KITTY HARBOR ‘PRE-BLACK FRIDAY DOORBUSTERS‘: Noon-5 pm, second day of pre-holiday cat/kitten adoption specials at Kitty Harbor. Be like Luci, dressed up in kitty-cat clothes as she waited in line with her parents Zach and Tati on Saturday:

Get more details here. (3422 Harbor SW)

KINDER MORGAN PROTEST ON HARBOR ISLAND: 12:30 pm, demonstrators plan to gather outside the Harbor Island offices of Kinder Morgan to show support for the Canadian campaign against an oil pipeline. Details on this Facebook event page. (2720 13th SW)

FALL WINE RELEASE/PRE-HOLIDAY SALE: 1-4 pm November 23rd at Two Brothers Winery. Wine, appetizers, live music. (3902 California SW)

FRED TALKS: 3-5 pm at Kol HaNeshamah – if you’ve heard of TED Talks, check out the first FRED Talks at KHN, as previewed here when first announced: “FRED Talk speakers will share stories of gumption, grit and gratitude and allow time for questions. Attendees will hear from all four speakers with a short intermission along the way. Suggested admission is $18 for adults and $12 for seniors and students. Children’s activities will be available, ages 3-11, for $5 a session.” (6115 SW Hinds)

LATE-NIGHT LOW TIDE: This time of year, the low-low tides are late at night, and tonight it’s out to -2.3 feet around 11:20 pm.

(Photo by Long B. Nguyen: Luna/Anchor Park, Don Armeni, & Hamilton Viewpoint all visible)
The weekend before Thanksgiving is the full-on kickoff for the holidays, and today’s slate of highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar won’t disappoint:

TURKEY GIVEAWAY: From 9 am until supplies run out, Eastridge Church is again giving away turkeys and bags of groceries to anyone who shows up – no proof of need required. (39th/Oregon)

SOUTHEAST ASIAN EDUCATION SUMMIT: 9 am-4 pm at South Seattle College (WSB sponsor), presented by Southeast Asian/American Access in Education – free to attend; details in our calendar listing. (6000 16th SW)

LONGFELLOW CREEK SALMON WALK: 10 am, meet Puget Soundkeeper Alliance stewards at Dragonfly Pavilion to embark on an exploration of Longfellow Creek, learning about its salmon, as previewed in this WSB report. (28th/Dakota)

J.F. HENRY OPEN HOUSE, DAY 1: 10 am-6 pm, first day of the big Holiday Open House at J.F. Henry Cooking and Dining (WSB sponsor) in The Junction. Deals, demonstrations, treats, more – see who and what will be there and when, by going here. (4445 California SW)

JUNCTION TRUE VALUE OPEN HOUSE: 10 am-2 pm, the big holiday open house at Junction True Value (WSB sponsor)! Refreshments, gifts, prizes. Coupon for ornaments, good Saturday/Sunday. Bring nonperishable food donations for the West Seattle Food Bank! (4747 44th SW)

GREAT BIG BAZAAR: 10 am-3 pm, first day of the Great Big Bazaar at Peace Lutheran Church in Gatewood – details in our calendar listing. (39th/Thistle)

NORTHWEST ART & FRAME OPEN HOUSE: 10 am-5:30 pm, including demonstrations, refreshments, specials. (4733 California SW)

WHITE CENTER FOOD BANK HOLIDAY FOOD DONATIONS:11 am-2 pm, drop off turkeys (or cash) at the WC Food Bank‘s headquarters. (10829 8th SW)

CLOTHING-DONATION DROPOFFS AT VIETNAMESE CULTURAL CENTER: Again this year, West Seattle’s Vietnamese Cultural Center is going to spend Thanksgiving helping homeless people, and they’d love to have your help, via donations of clothing/socks/etc. You can drop the items off today (and/or tomorrow), 11 am-5 pm, at the center. (2236 SW Orchard)

FREE LUNCH AT WSPC: Hungry? Chilly? Just need some good company? Noon-1:30 pm, you’re welcome to come have lunch, free, at West Side Presbyterian Church. (3601 California SW)

KITTY HARBOR ‘PRE-BLACK FRIDAY DOORBUSTERS‘: Noon-5 pm, pre-holiday cat/kitten adoption specials at Kitty Harbor, as detailed here. (3422 Harbor SW)

WEST SEATTLE FOOD BANK TURKEY DRIVE: 1-4 pm, drop off turkeys (or cash) at the WS Food Bank‘s headquarters. (35th/Morgan)

TEA WITH GEORGIE: She’s a comic, a musician, a writer, a rabblerouser … Don’t miss the chance to spend the afternoon in the company of West Seattle’s one-of-a-kind Georgie Bright Kunkel, 3 pm at Kenyon Hall. (7904 35th SW)

ARTS & CRAFTS SALE PLUS CRECHE EXHIBIT: 3-5 pm, first of two days at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church‘s newly expanded annual event – handmade holiday items for sale, plus a chance to see an exhibit of creches. (California/Hanford)

BEER CHURCH’S TURKEY BOWL: 5:30 pm at West Seattle Bowl. The lanes are sold out but you are invited to come down, cheer the Beer Church and its bowlers, have a brew, buy a raffle ticket, and most importantly, bring food (and/or money!) for the West Seattle Food Bank, which gets a big boost from this every year – and this is the 16th annual edition! (39th/Oregon)

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRAS’ GALA: As previewed here earlier this week, tonight is the night to celebrate with the West Seattle Community Orchestras at Highland Park Improvement Club, and help them support student music! Doors open at 6; we’re told there’s still room. (12th/Holden)

FLOURISH BEAUTY SHOPPING EVENT & DONATION DRIVE: 6-9 pm, with local vendors plus raffle/donation drive for West Seattle Helpline – details in our calendar listing. (Fauntleroy/Raymond)

THE BURNZ AT EASY STREET: 7 pm, free all-ages in-store concert with Seattle’s own The Burnz at Easy Street Records in The Junction. (California/Alaska)

‘DOGFIGHT,’ FINAL NIGHT: 7:30 pm, closing night for the musical “Dogfight” at ArtsWest (WSB sponsor) in The Junction. (4711 California SW)

SOUTHWEST TEEN LIFE CENTER LATE-NIGHT THANKSGIVING: 8 pm, ages 13-19 get to celebrate early with a full Thanksgiving dinner at Southwest TLC. (2801 SW Thistle)

ALL THAT, BUT STILL … there’s more! Go directly to our calendar to see for yourself.

(Varied thrush, photographed in Lincoln Park by Trileigh Tucker)
From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar for today/tonight:

BOOKFAIR TODAY/TONIGHT TO BENEFIT ROXHILL ELEMENTARY: As explained here earlier this week, all day, a percentage of purchases at Barnes/Noble (in store or online) will go to Roxhill Elementary if you mention it’s their Bookfair day (see the voucher # in our story) – plus, special in-store readings at the Westwood Village store tonight. (2600 SW Barton)

FALL WINE RELEASE … at the Northwest Wine Academy on the north end of the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus, including complimentary tastings. Second of three days, 2-7 pm – more info in our calendar listing. (6000 16th SW)

JAZZ AT SALTY’S: Tonight’s music slate starts at 5 pm at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor) with the New Orleans jazz sounds of the Dave Holo Trio. (1936 Harbor SW)

MORE MUSIC TONIGHT … various venues, go directly to the calendar!

REACHING FOR THE STARS: West Seattle High School‘s annual auction is tonight at South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) – see our calendar listing for details – 5:30-8:30 pm. (6000 16th SW)

HPIC MOVIE NIGHT – SPECIAL EARLY START! This time around at Highland Park Improvement Club, doors open at 6, kids’ short film (think Peanuts and Thanksgiving!) at 6:15, main feature at 7 (see our calendar listing for description). Movie’s free, chairs available (or BYO pillows/blankets), concessions available for purchase. (12th/Holden)

‘DOGFIGHT’ AT ARTSWEST: 7:30 pm, this “romantic and heartbreaking story,” a musical based on a 1991 film, continues at ArtsWest (WSB sponsor) in The Junction – final weekend! (4711 California SW)

‘GATHERING BONES’: Performance at Twilight Gallery in The Junction, 8 pm (doors open at 7), details in our calendar listing – check to see if tickets are still available, as space is limited. (4306 SW Alaska)

(Photo by Jordan, shared via the WSB Flickr group)
Just a sampling of what’s on the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar for today/tonight:

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME … at Southwest Branch Library, 10:30 am. (35th/Henderson)

FALL WINE RELEASE … at the Northwest Wine Academy on the north end of the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus, including complimentary tastings. First day today, 2-7 pm – more info in our calendar listing. (6000 16th SW)

MEDICAL MARIJUANA & HOW THE CITY DEALS WITH IT: 5 pm tonight is the symposium mentioned here earlier this month – not in West Seattle, but possibly of interest given the number of dispensaries here. City Hall downtown. (600 4th Ave.)

NATIVE CULTURE NIGHT: 5:30-7:30 pm, you’re invited to this event at Highland Park Elementary School:

The Highland Park Community Pow Wow Association is hosting Native Culture Night on Thursday, November 20th from 5:30-7:30 pm at Highland Park Elementary School! There will be traditional drumming, storytelling, a silent auction featuring authentic native artwork and crafts, and delicious cultural foods for sale. This event is open to the whole community. Funds raised will go towards the 2nd Annual Traditional Mini Pow Wow hosted at Highland Park Elementary on March 20th.

HPES is at 1012 SW Trenton.

INFORMATION NIGHT AND EXHIBITION OF LEARNING: Families interested in Westside School (WSB sponsor)’s middle-school program are invited to visit tonight for an information session at 6 pm in the school library, followed by the Exhibition of Learning throughout the school. Details in our calendar listing. (7740 34th SW)

FLY FISHING IN PUGET SOUND: Free seminar, 6-8 pm at Emerald Water Anglers (WSB sponsor) in The Junction. Please RSVP; details in our calendar listing. (42nd/Oregon)

4TH DESIGN REVIEW BOARD MEETING FOR EX-CAFE SITE: The 27-unit proposal for 3824 California SW, former site of the Charlestown Café, returns to the Southwest Design Review Board – which hasn’t met in more than two months – tonight at 6:30 pm at the Senior Center of West Seattle. This could be the final meeting, if the board gives its approval. See the revised design here. (Oregon/California)

LIVE IN THE MORGAN JUNCTION AREA? Tonight a special community meeting looks at how to change the area’s Comprehensive Plan to allow the proposed townhouse development on Church of the Nazarene property. That would be a zoning change for what’s currently a single-family-housing site, and community discussion is sought on how to word the change so it’s very specific to this project. 7 pm at The Kenney (WSB sponsor); details in our calendar listing. (7125 Fauntleroy Way SW)

ALKI COMMUNITY COUNCIL ANNUAL MEETING: 7 pm at Alki UCC. If you only make it to one ACC meeting a year, make it this one. Scheduled topics include Water Taxi shuttle, growth of summer beach volleyball, and 2015 board/officers election. (6115 SW Hinds)

AND THERE’S MORE … on our calendar.

(Remember the sunshine? Winter beach volleyball photographed last weekend by Don Brubeck)
Not far from that sandy scene, we start today’s list of highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

MARINATION’S ‘FREE TACO’ FOOD DRIVE: Bring a nonperishable food item to Marination ma kai (WSB sponsor) at Seacrest today for the Food Lifeline drive, and you’ll get a free taco, as previewed here. MMK is open now, and doesn’t close until 8 pm. The food drive continues beyond today, but this is the ONE day for this tasty incentive. (1660 Harbor SW)

TURKEY DRIVE: 4-7 pm today, donate a turkey (or money for one) to the West Seattle Food Bank at West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor) – as previewed here. (California/Fauntleroy)

AFFORDABLE, LIVABLE HOUSING IN SEATTLE: How do you think the city can help make sure there IS some, maybe even more? Your chance to have a say and get involved is tonight – not IN West Seattle, but it’s as close as this round of meetings will get – 6 to 8:30 pm at the Ethiopian Community Center. Lots of details here. (8323 Rainier Ave. S. – map)

PALEO DESSERT PARTY: 6-8 pm at X Gym Alki (WSB sponsor), as explained in our calendar listing. Chocolate! Among other things. (3213 Harbor SW)

GORE-TEX GROUP RUN: Try new stuff out and get your (3- or 6-mile) run on! 6:30 pm, meet at West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor), details here. (3727 California SW)

DELRIDGE NEIGHBORHOODS DISTRICT COUNCIL: 7 pm at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, with the agenda including guest Israel Vela, executive director of Southwest-region schools for Seattle Public Schools, and a followup discussion on the proposed Neighborhood Matching Fund changes. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

WORDS WEST LITERARY SERIES: 7 pm at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), featuring Kate Lebo and Molly Wizenberg, with Delridge Grocery reading the “favorite poem.” Details in our calendar listing. (5612 California SW)

LAUGH IT OFF: Midweek and you need a reason to laugh. You’ll find many reasons tonight at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), with West Seattle’s own Mona Concepcion hosting Comedy Night featuring Mitch Burrow, Evelyn Jensen, Matt Eriksen, Mike Coletta, Nick Decktor, 8 pm. (6451 California SW)

MORE … on the calendar!

Thanks to Mark Wangerin (of benefit calendar fame!) for that photo of a surf scoter in local waters! Wading into our calendar highlights for tonight:

WEST SEATTLE HACK NIGHT: 6:30 pm at WS Office Junction (WSB sponsor), as previewed here on Monday. Register if you’re thinking of going – our calendar listing shows how – so they know who to expect! (6040 California SW)

JUNCTION NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATION: 6:30 pm, Senior Center of West Seattle. “Let’s ring in the season with a lively discussion of what JuNO has accomplished to date and what we can accomplish in the coming year. This would be a good meeting to invite a neighbor that has not yet been to a JuNO meeting,” suggests director René Commons, also asking attendees to bring a treat to share and a donation for the West Seattle Food Bank. (Oregon/California)

HOPE LUTHERAN SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 6:30-8 pm, all-school open house for Hope Lutheran, which serves preschool-8th grade. (42nd/Oregon)

WEST SEATTLE CRIME PREVENTION COUNCIL: No special guests on the agenda tonight – bring your concerns and ideas, and hear about crime trends in Q/A with local police leadership. 6:30 pm at the Southwest Precinct. (Webster/Delridge)

ALAUDA BELLY-DANCE SHOWCASE: 7:30 pm, free, all ages, Skylark Café. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

BLUES TO DO: Vicki Stevens and Sonny Hess headline the weekly blues showcase at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 8 pm. (6451 California SW)

OR, IF YOU WANT TO DO THE SINGING … two venues with karaoke are on our nightlife slate for tonight; see them (and more) by going directly to our calendar!

(Looking south along 35th SW, by Long B. Nguyen – click image to see larger view)
As we wing into a new week … calendar (etc.) highlights:

AFTERNOON BOOK GROUP AT SW LIBRARY: Love to read? Local libraries convene afternoon/evening book groups now and then. 2 pm today at Southwest Branch Library, this month’s afternoon group is reading “Rat Girl” by Kristin Hersh. (35th/Henderson)

THANKSGIVING COOKING CLASS AT SALTY’S ON ALKI: Check ASAP to see if there’s room left – in any of the three sessions, starting with tonight at 6 pm, featuring Salty’s (WSB sponsor) Chef Jeremy McLachlan – details in our calendar listing. (1936 Harbor SW)

SPEAKING OF COOKING … voted for Carmen yet? We told her story over the weekend – she’s a local fourth-grader and the only national finalist from the Northwest in a cooking contest for kids. Find the link to her recipe video and voting page here (you can do it daily, until just before Thanksgiving, and there are NO requirements – no signups, registration, social-media shares, etc.).

TRIVIA, TRIVIA, TRIVIA: Monday’s the night to show what you know – at multiple West Seattle venues, including Christo’s, OutWest, Shadowland, and Skylark. Go directly to our calendar