(Chilly sunrise as seen from over the Duwamish River – photo by Don Brubeck)

Here’s what’s up today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

GIVE IF YOU CAN: 9 am-3 pm (closed 11 am-noon for break), a mobile blood drive in The Junction is your next chance to give the gift of life – much-needed right now, according to our regional blood bank. Details in our calendar listing. (4754 42nd SW)

COMMUNITY SCHOOL OF WEST SEATTLE OPEN HOUSE: Adult-only drop-in event “where you can see the space, talk to teachers, and learn about Community School’s approach to learning.” 10 am-2 pm. (9450 22nd SW)

SEATTLE MADE POP-UP: 10 am-3 pm at Sound & Fog, it’s a pop-up shop with local makers – body care, fragrances, jewelry, sweets, underwear. (4735 40th SW)

ALAIR GRAND OPENING: West Seattle’s new gift shop is celebrating its grand opening today, 10 am-7 pm, as previewed here on Friday. (3280 California SW)

SEEKING SEATTLE’S SURVIVING SALAMANDERS: 11 am at Camp Long with naturalist Stewart Wechsler. Details in our calendar listing, including how to pre-register if there’s still room. (5200 35th SW)

‘WE HAVE A DREAM’: Community workshop focused on “Strengthening Community and the Futures of Our Youth Through Storytelling,” presented by the Delridge Neighborhoods Development Association and United Way-King County, 1-4 pm at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. All welcome; details in our calendar listing. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

JUNIOR ROLLER DERBY TRIPLEHEADER: At Southgate Roller Rink in White Center, doors open 5:15 pm for Southside Revolution Junior Roller Derby‘s second-annual Harry Potter-themed bout, a tripleheader with a costume contest at halftime! Details in our calendar listing. (9646 17th SW)

ROSE LAUGHLIN TRIO: Folk music, traditional and modern, at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7 pm. (5612 California SW)

DIFFERENT DRUMMER: At Kenyon Hall, 7:30 pm, you’ll see this “multi-genre chamber ensemble comprised of violin, double bass, and percussive tap dancing.” Ticket and other info in our calendar listing. (7904 35th SW)

JUDI JENSEN BAND: Live music at 9 pm, no cover, at Poggie Tavern. 21+. (4717 California SW)

3 BANDS @ PARLIAMENT: At Parliament Tavern, it’s live music tonight with Sir Coyler & His Asthmatic Band, The DT’s, Second Hand Suits, starting at 9 pm. $5 cover. 21+. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

3 BANDS @ SKYLARK: The Skylark has a live-music triple bill too with Juliet Tango, Obol, Fain, 9 pm. $7 cover. 21+. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

EVEN MORE for today, tonight, beyond … just check our complete calendar.

(This morning’s moonset over The Olympics, photographed by Chris Frankovich)

The full “wolf moon” put on a show this morning (above) and last night (below). Looking ahead to tonight here are highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, starting with this month’s West Seattle Art Walk:

JANUARY ART WALK: 6-9 pm at venues around West Seattle. Here’s the venue list/map for this quarter:

We’ve heard directly from four venues:
–Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor) is featuring painter Lindsay Peyton
–ReMAX in The Junction (4400 SW Alaska) is featuring Judith Allison (until 8 pm)
–Wild Rose in The Junction (4529 California SW) is featuring photographer Jacob Smithers
–The Building in Gatewood (7150 44th SW) has several open studios tonight

Any others? editor@westseattleblog.com! Also please note that Click! Design That Fits (WSB sponsor) is not participating this month because it’s closed for its winter break until January 28th – but go see them during the February and March WSAWs!

(This morning’s moonset over The Olympics, photographed by Robert Spears)

Also today/tonight:

3038 39TH SW APPEAL HEARING: Under way at the city Hearing Examiner‘s chambers on the 40th floor of the Municipal Tower downtown – public is welcome to observe (we’re here and the gallery is almost full – this is continuing until at least noon). Here’s our preview, published Wednesday. (700 5th Avenue)

CHIEF SEALTH IHS SHOWCASE/RESOURCE FAIR: Future high-school student in your family? 5:30-7:30 pm, you’re invited to come find out more about Chief Sealth International High School. A Family Engagement Resource Fair is also happening, and current students’ families are welcome too. Free dinner for all! Full details in our calendar listing. (2600 SW Thistle)

AFTER HOURS AT THE Y: The West Seattle Chamber of Commerce‘s After Hours event is at the newly expanded West Seattle YMCA (WSB sponsor), 5:30-7:30 pm. $10 nonmembers, free for members. (36th SW/SW Snoqualmie)

(This morning’s moonset over The Olympics, photographed by Dan Ciske)

PECOS PIT PARKING MEETING: 6:30 pm at the Sisson Building/Senior Center, tonight is the meeting for community comments on whether to extend the Pecos Pit Barbecue (WSB sponsor) use of the ex-substation site to the east. (4217 SW Oregon)

PARK BOARD CONSIDERS DOG PLAN: 6:30 pm at Seattle Parks HQ downtown, the “strategic plan” for future offleash and more will be considered by the Board of Parks Commissioners, as previewed here. (100 Dexter Ave. N.)

OPEN MIC AT C & P: 7 pm at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), it’s open-mic night for musicians. (5612 California SW)

‘THE ODD COUPLE, FEMALE EDITION’: 7:30 pm, second performance of West Seattle High School‘s student-directed play – full details here. (3000 California SW)

(Last night’s moonrise over downtown, photographed by Greg Snyder)

LOTS MORE … on our complete calendar!

(Surfbird, photographed by Mark Wangerin)

We’ve made it to midweek! Here are the highlights for today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

FAMILY STORY TIME: Perfect for 1-to-5-year-olds and their grownups. 10:30 am at Southwest Library. (35th SW/SW Henderson)

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: This one is best for 3-to-5-year-olds and their grownups. 10:30 am at West Seattle (Admiral) Library. (2306 42nd SW)

HEY, WEST SEATTLE BIZPEOPLE! Noon-1:15 pm, it’s your meetup day at West Seattle Office Junction (WSB sponsor), our area’s only coworking center. Bring your lunch and come network. (6040 California SW)

DINE OUT FOR LAFAYETTE: 6-10 pm, part of tonight’s proceeds at Pizzeria 22 go to help Lafayette Elementary School. (4213 SW College)

BELLYDANCING CLASSES: New series begins, with “toolbox” at 6 pm, workout at 7 pm, at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. Details in our calendar listing. (4409 Delridge Way SW)

34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS’ REORGANIZATION MEETING: Every two years, West Seattle’s biggest political group elects new leadership, and that’s what happens at tonight’s meeting, 7 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy. Here’s the agenda; the list of declared candidates is here. (9131 California SW)

COUCH-TO-DASH INFO NIGHT: 7 pm at West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor), come find out about an upcoming training program looking ahead to the St. Pat’s Dash. (2743 California SW)

‘THE ODD COUPLE, FEMALE EDITION’: Student-directed play opens tonight at West Seattle High School Theater, 7:30 pm. Ticket info and other details here. (3000 California SW)

BILLY JOE HUELS & THE RCs: 8 pm at Parliament Tavern. 21+. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

Got something for the calendar? Let thousands of your West Seattle neighbors know about your community/school meeting, performance, fundraiser, freebie, work party, support group, or … we list a lot. Send the info in plain text in the body of your e-mail, at least a week before the event, editor@westseattleblog.com – thanks!

(Barred owl, photographed in Fauntleroy Park by John Traweek)

From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

‘TRY IT TUESDAY’: Everyone is welcome at the West Seattle YMCA (WSB sponsor) today as its grand-opening celebration continues – come try the Y for free, all day and until 10 pm! Details here. (36th SW/SW Snoqualmie)

DREAM DINNERS FOR BEGINNERS: 5:30 and 7 pm tonight at Dream Dinners West Seattle (WSB sponsor), first-time guests can find out how DD works and then make three dinners at a special price. Our calendar listing explains how to sign up. (4701 41st SW)

WESTSIDE SCHOOL LOWER SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 6-7:30 pm, “meet our teachers, administrators, current parents, and students” at Westside School (WSB sponsor). (10404 34th SW)

HOPE LUTHERAN PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 6:30-8 pm, families are invited to visit and learn about the play-based preschool at Hope Lutheran School (WSB sponsor) – details here. (4456 42nd SW)

FAUNTLEROY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION: 7 pm at the Fauntleroy Schoolhouse, with the agenda including “the Schoolhouse Centennial Celebration, the Fauntleroy Community Parking Subcommittee, an update from the West Seattle Police Precinct, and updates on the Endolyne Triangle, City Light substation, ferry system, and SW District Council.” (9131 California SW)

ADMIRAL NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION: 7 pm at The Sanctuary at Admiral, with an agenda including – as previewed here and here – a discussion of the proposed HALA rezoning and an introduction to the proprietors of in-the-works restaurant Arthur’s. (42nd SW/SW Lander)

FREE COMMUNITY MEDITATION GATHERING: 7 pm at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center – details in our calendar listing. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

HIGH-SCHOOL BASKETBALL HOME GAMES: The West Seattle High School boys host Bainbridge, varsity game at 7:30 pm (3000 California SW); the Chief Sealth International High School boys host Garfield, varsity game at 7:30 pm (2600 SW Thistle).

THERE’S MORE! See our complete calendar page to find out what else is up today, tonight, tomorrow, beyond.

(Killdeer, photographed by Mark Wangerin)

Welcome to a new week! From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, highlights of what’s happening today/tonight:

HIGH POINT LIBRARY REOPENS: After a five-week closure, at 1 pm, the doors (and book drop) will be open again at renovated High Point Library, as previewed here again last night. (35th SW/SW Raymond)

WEST SEATTLE PRESCHOOL FAIR: 5:30-7:30 pm at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, as previewed here. (3050 California SW)

PHYSICAL-THERAPY NIGHT: 5:30-7 pm, stop by West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor) for a free injury assessment by Biojunction Sports Therapy – details in our calendar listing. (2743 California SW)

GATEWOOD PTA TALKS PUBLIC-SCHOOL FUNDING: 6:30 pm at the Gatewood Elementary cafeteria, as previewed here last night. All welcome. (4320 SW Myrtle)

2 EVENING BOOK GROUPS: Two local library branches have their monthly book groups tonight, both at 6:45 pm. At Southwest (35th/Henderson), “Boys in the Boat” by Daniel Brown is this month’s book; at West Seattle (2306 42nd SW), “The Other Language” by Francesca Marciano is this month’s book.

WEST SEATTLE BOOSTER CLUB: At West Seattle High School tonight, this group supporting the school’s athletic programs and students has its next meeting, 7 pm. (3000 California SW)

EVEN MORE for today/tonight … on our complete-calendar page.

(Mount Baker, as seen from Alki on Saturday, photographed by James Borrow)

Good morning! Highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

RETURN OF THE FARMERS’ MARKET: After holiday closures, the West Seattle Farmers’ Market is open today for the first time since December 18th. 10 am-2 pm in the street, in The Junction. New vendor this week – Glendale Shepherd, with sheep’s-milk cheese.

PLAY FRISBEE: 10 am at Walt Hundley Playfield, all welcome to drop by as West Seattle Ultimate Family Frisbee gets back to the regular day/time. (34th SW/SW Myrtle)

‘LEARN THE ART AND PRACTICE OF HEALING MOTHER NATURE HERSELF’ … with local naturalist Stewart Wechsler, as explained on his website, 11 am-1:30 pm at Lincoln Park. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Open 11 am-4 pm on the northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

FREE CLASSICAL CONCERT: Oboe and piano are in the spotlight at the Ladies Musical Club concert at West Seattle (Admiral) Library, 3 pm – details in our calendar listing. No admission charge. (2306 42nd SW)

FREE ZUMBA: The grand-opening celebration continues at expanded West Seattle YMCA (WSB sponsor) with a free Zumba party 3:30-5 pm today, open to nonmembers as well as members. (36th SW/SW Snoqualmie)

MORE OF WHAT’S UP TODAY/TONIGHT/BEYOND … on our complete-calendar page.

Thanks to Robert Spears for the photos of the Russell Investments building displaying its 12, as seen from West Seattle.

That of course is for tonight’s playoff game at the CLink, with the Seahawks vs. the Lions at 5:15 pm. Here on the peninsula, here’s what’s happening:

GET FIT WEST SEATTLE: First group run at 8 am today – meet at West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor); details of the free training program are in our calendar listing. (2743 California SW)

CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING: The Rainbow Girls‘ annual fundraising Christmas tree recycling dropoff event is 9 am-1 pm in the parking lot at the Masonic Center in The Junction. By donation. (40th SW/SW Edmunds)

FREE CLASSES: Open House at Innate Vitality in Fauntleroy, with free classes noon-3 pm. (4509 Wildwood Place)

TWEEN TAKEOVER AT THE Y: 6:30-9 pm, free to nonmembers and members alike, part of the West Seattle YMCA (WSB sponsor) expansion grand opening celebration – details here. (36th SW/SW Snoqualmie)

WEST SEATTLE MEANINGFUL MOVIE: See and talk about “Promised Land,” a new documentary about the Duwamish and Chinook Tribes’ quests for restoration of treaty rights.

Doors open at 6:30, film at 7, optional facilitated discussion afterward. At Neighborhood House’s High Point Center. Free; donations accepted. (6400 Sylvan Way)

GIBBOUS MOON WALK WITH THE STARS, OWLS, AND OTHERS: 7 pm at Lincoln Park, nature walk with naturalist Stewart Wechsler. Details on his website. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

PATRON APPRECIATION NIGHT: Free fun at Kenyon Hall – but you do need a reservation. 7:30 pm – more info in our calendar listing. (7904 35th SW)

THE ESOTERICS IN CONCERT: 8 pm at Holy Rosary Church. “For the first concert of its 24th season, The Esoterics will celebrate the centennial of African-American composer, conductor, and professor, Ulysses Kay.” Advance tickets available online. (42nd SW/SW Genesee)

SOULFUL SONGWRITING … is the theme for tonight’s 8:30 pm bill at Parliament Tavern. $5 cover. 21+. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

WEST SIDE GLORY: 9 pm at The Skylark, “West Seattle’s Quarterly Somewhat Queer Variety Show returns in 2017 with a THEME show – and that theme will be the late, great David Bowie!” More info in our calendar listing. 21+. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

AND EVEN MORE … for tonight, tomorrow, and beyond, on our complete calendar page!

(Sanderlings, photographed by Mark Wangerin)

First full weekend of 2017 is almost here. We start with a road-closure reminder:

NORTHBOUND 99 CLOSURE TONIGHT: From 8 pm tonight until 8 am Saturday, WSDOT crews will close northbound Highway 99 between the West Seattle Bridge and the stadium zone to repair damaged pavement. They’re scheduled to do it again 10:30 pm Saturday through 8 am Sunday.

Now, highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE: If you can donate blood, consider participating in today’s donation drive – look for it at Admiral Safeway, 1 pm-7 pm, closed 3-4 pm for a break. (2622 California SW)

WORDS, WRITERS, WEST SEATTLE: The monthly Southwest Seattle Historical Society-presented author series at Barnes & Noble/Westwood Village is 5-7 pm tonight, this time featuring photographer/writer David Barnes and his book “Seattle Illuminated” – here’s his video invitation, courtesy of SWSHS:

(2600 SW Barton)

WEST SEATTLE YMCA EXPANSION CELEBRATION – FREE ‘FAMILY NIGHT’: 6:30 pm at the newly reopened/expanded West Seattle YMCA (WSB sponsor) in The Triangle, nonmembers and members alike are welcome for free fun including Family Zumba, Family Swim, and an obstacle course. (36th SW/SW Snoqualmie)

HIGH-SCHOOL BASKETBALL: All three local high schools play home games tonight – West Seattle High School girls vs. Garfield, 7 pm, and boys vs. Garfield, 8:30 pm (3000 California SW) … Chief Sealth International High School girls vs. Bishop Blanchet, 7 pm, and boys vs. Blanchet, 8:30 pm (2600 SW Thistle) … Seattle Lutheran High School girls (6 pm) and boys (7:30 pm) vs. Crosspoint (4100 SW Genesee).

TX TRUMBO: Performing at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

MORE LIVE MUSIC: See tonight’s other listings on our complete calendar!

(Photo by Long Bach Nguyen, looking south over West Seattle this past Tuesday)

From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

FAMILY STORY TIME: 10:30 am at Southwest Library, optimal for ages 1-5. Free as always. (35th SW/SW Henderson)

DESIGN REVIEW DOUBLEHEADER: Two projects go before the Southwest Design Review Board tonight at the Senior Center/Sisson Building – at 6:30 pm, the first look at the nine live-work units proposed at 4220 SW 100th in Arbor Heights (the design packet is here), and at 8 pm, the second look at an apartment building proposed for 3039 SW Avalon Way (the design packet is here). Both will include chances for public comment. (4217 SW Oregon)

EARLY DAYS SUPPORT GROUP: Evening sessions of this support group for parents of babies up to 1 year old are 6:30-8:30 pm at In Tandem Midwifery. Details in our calendar listing. (4522 44th SW)

NORTH HIGHLINE UNINCORPORATED AREA COUNCIL: If you live/work in White Center or other parts of the unincorporated area just south/east of West Seattle, this is your community council, and you’re invited to tonight’s 7 pm meeting at the North Highline Fire District’s HQ. Here’s what’s on the agenda. (1243 SW 112th)

READ THE KORAN IN 4 WEEKS: The next 4-week session of First Lutheran Church of West Seattle Pastor Ron Marshall‘s long-running class starts tonight, 7 pm; details are in our calendar listing, including how to check if there’s still room. (4105 California SW)

SEE OUR FULL CALENDAR for more of what’s up tonight, tomorrow, this weekend, and beyond!

Thanks to Randy Stratton for the photo of “curly icicles” seen along the Genesee Hill Elementary parking-lot stairway on Tuesday – since it’s still in the 20s as we write, we’d bet they’re still there. Meanwhile, here are calendar highlights for our clear-and-cold West Seattle Wednesday:

MAKING SEATTLE LIVABLE FOR SENIORS: What would it take? Join the discussion at Southwest Library, noon; details in our calendar listing. (35th SW/SW Henderson)

NETWORKING MEETUP: West Seattle’s only coworking center, Office Junction (WSB sponsor), invites you to bring your lunch and network, noon-1:15 pm. (6040 California SW)

LANDMARK OR NOT? As previewed here again last week, the West Seattle Junction’s Hamm Building – home to businesses including Easy Street Records – is nominated for city-landmark designation, and the Landmarks Preservation Board will consider the nomination – first of at least two required hearings – when it meets this afternoon in the Boards and Commissions Room at City Hall. The meeting starts at 3:30 pm but other items on the agenda are expected to take at least the first hour. There will be a public-comment period. (600 4th Ave.)

SEATTLE SCHOOL BOARD: 4:15 pm meeting at district HQ, with some items of local interest, as previewed here. (3rd Ave. S./S. Lander)

SOUTHWEST DISTRICT COUNCIL: It’s a brand-new year and a new world for local neighborhood-district councils, no longer officially tied to the city but charging forward just the same, including the Southwest District Council, which meets at the Senior Center/Sisson Building, 6:30-7:30 pm, with this agenda:

6:30 P.M. Welcome and Introductions
• Review and approval of previous meetings minutes and summary
• Brief Announcements
• Amendments and overview of the Meeting Agenda

6:45 P.M. Neighborhood Parks & Street Fund 2017 Timeline

6:50 P.M. Discussion on changes to SWDC By-laws
• By-law Review Committee work to date
• By-laws of other district councils
• Consideration for incorporating, and at-large membership

7:20 P.M. Southwest District Council Business
• CNC Update
• Announcements
• Other business

(4217 SW Oregon)

JIM PAGE, LIVE: See and hear the singer-songwriter at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

MORE FOR TONIGHT, TOMORROW, BEYOND … on our full calendar!

The early bird gets the … grass. Sea-growing grasses are the preferred food of brant, the shy migratory geese seen along West Seattle shores this time of year. Thanks to Mark Wangerin for the photo! Now, on to our daily preview for the first non-holiday weekday of 2017:

BABY STORY TIMES: 10:30 am brings these free story times to two local libraries: Southwest Library (35th SW/SW Henderson) and West Seattle Library (2306 42nd SW). Recommended for babies up to one year old.

EARLY DAYS: Speaking of babies … the Early Days drop-in support groups have two days/locations in 2017. Today – and every Tuesday – 1-3 pm, you’ll find Early Days at Nurturing Expressions (WSB sponsor) in The Junction – details in our calendar listing. (4746 44th SW)

TALK POLITICS: Drinking Liberally‘s monthly gathering is tonight, 6-7:30 pm at Pizzeria 22 in The Admiral District. (4213 SW College)

SEATTLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS BUDGET GAP: Not in West Seattle, but not far, and the subject could affect every SPS-involved family in the district. 6:30 pm at Franklin High School, the third of three Seattle Council PTSA-sponsored community conversations about the district’s potential $74 million budget gap. What are YOUR priorities for the SPS budget, if cuts have to be made? Come hear and talk about it. (3013 S. Mt Baker Blvd.)

AND THERE’S MORE for today, tonight, and beyond, on our full calendar! (Something to add? Please send it as early as possible – at least a week before the event – with info in the body of your e-mail, not as an attachment – editor@westseattleblog.com – thank you!)

(American Robin, photographed by Mark Wangerin)

From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, what’s happening for the rest of the final Friday of 2016:

GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE: Blood supplies tend to dwindle during the holiday season. If you can donate, consider doing it at Peace Lutheran Church in Gatewood today, where a mobile blood drive is scheduled 1 pm-7 pm, with a 3-4 pm break. (39th SW/SW Thistle)

FRIDAY AFTERNOON AT THE MOVIES: “Some Like It Hot” (1959) is the 1 pm feature at the Senior Center of West Seattle today. (4217 SW Oregon)

STAR WARS @ MEEPLES: New “Star Wars” RPG campaign, open to new players, starting at Meeples Games (WSB sponsor) at 6:30 pm – here’s the Meetup page; see other Meeples events on the store’s calendar here. (3727 California SW)

FOLK-ROCK AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: Cameron Biscarret performs at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

3 BANDS @ SKYLARK: Magic Thread, Ol’ No. 7, The Johnstown Flood perform starting at 9 pm at The Skylark, $7 cover, 21+. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

To look ahead to New Year’s Eve & Day, see the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide!

(Great blue heron, photographed by Don Brubeck)

From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, four ways to spend your between-holidays Thursday:

LOG HOUSE MUSEUM: Noon-4 pm, visit the home of West Seattle’s history, headquarters of the Southwest Seattle Historical Society. (61st SW/SW Stevens)

‘STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS,’ FREE: 3 pm at West Seattle (Admiral) Library, all are welcome to the branch’s “family movie” screening of Episode VII. (2306 42nd SW)

HORSE AND TIGER: “A night of funky improv” at Parliament Tavern, 8 pm, 21+, no cover. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

THE W LOVERS: Live at Whisky West, 8 pm, 21+. (6451 California SW)

LOOKING AHEAD TO NEW YEAR’S EVE/DAY? Check the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide. And please let us know if you have something to add!

If you’re off today, take some time to enjoy our area’s beauty – the snowcapped Olympics made an appearance this morning, and while it looks like clouds are creeping back over the peaks, at least we have James Bratsanos‘s photos capturing the view!

Meantime – highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

LEGO SPACE WARS @ THE LIBRARY: 2-4 pm, as previewed here yesterday, kids are invited to Southwest Library to build spaceships (and more) with Legos! Free; no registration required. (35th SW/SW Henderson)

CANDLELIGHT VIGIL FOR THE ORCAS: 4:45 pm, meet at Alki Statue of Liberty Plaza to remember and honor the Southern Resident Killer Whales lost this year. (61st SW/Alki Avenue SW)

WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Get ready for a project you’re planning in the New Year! Visit the Tool Library tonight, 5-8 pm on the northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

GET FIT, WEST SEATTLE! INFO NIGHT: 6:30 pm at West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor), come find out about the couch-to-half-marathon training program for beginners, with its next session starting early in the New Year. (2743 California SW)

Nothing from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide for today/tonight, but it has a growing section of New Year’s Eve/Day events – if yours isn’t there, let us know ASAP via editor@westseattleblog.com so we can add it – thanks!

(Photo by Lynn Hall – another view of Alki’s “sea serpent” driftwood)

From the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide and year-round Event Calendar:

HOLIDAY SHOPPING: Special hours this week at your shop? Let us know ASAP so we can mention! Here are some places we know you can shop today/tonight:

My Three Little Birds (WSB sponsor) in south Morgan Junction is open today, until 5 pm. (6959 California SW)

Thunder Road Guitars (WSB sponsor) in The Junction is open today, until 6 pm. (4736 California SW)

Second Gear Sports (WSB sponsor) in Morgan Junction is open until 6 pm. (6529 California SW)

Wyatt’s Jewelers (WSB sponsor) in Westwood Village is open today, until 6 pm. (2600 SW Barton)

Atomic Boys in Admiral is open today, until 6 pm. (4311 SW Admiral Way)

Click! Design That Fits (WSB sponsor) in The Junction is open until 8 tonight. (4540 California SW)

Meeples Games (WSB sponsor) is open today, 11:30 am-10 pm. (3727 California SW)

Also today/tonight:

AFTERNOON BOOK GROUP: 2 pm at Southwest Library, all welcome. “Let the Great World Spin” by Colum McCann is this month’s book. (35th SW/SW Henderson)

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE: The regional Camp Fire Headquarters is in West Seattle and inviting you over this afternoon/evening: “Join us for an evening of cookie decorating, gingerbread house making and snowflake cutting! Come take a photo in one of our many holiday photo booths! This is also a great opportunity to come tour Camp Fire headquarters and meet the staff!” 3-6 pm. Bring a donation for foster kids via Treehouse – here’s the wish list. (2414 SW Andover, Suite D-105)

SANTA AT THRIFTWAY Another chance to see St. Nick – West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor) will get four visits this week, starting with 5:30-8:30 pm tonight. (Fauntleroy/California/Morgan)

COOKIE CLASS: Holiday Cookie Decorating Class for the whole family at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor), 6 pm. Reservations required – get all the info here – and call ASAP to see if they still have room! (1936 Harbor SW)

WEST SEATTLE QUILTERS: 7 pm at the Senior Center of West Seattle. (4217 SW Oregon)

MONDAY QUIZ: All ages, 7:30 pm at The Skylark. (3803 California SW)

(The Olympics this morning, by James Bratsanos. As with almost all photos on WSB, you can click to open a larger view)

Happy Friday! Many highlights for the rest of today/tonight. First, from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide:

GIFT IDEAS @ HOMESTREET: HomeStreet Bank (WSB sponsor) in The Junction will host vendors for a mini-bazaar: “Just a couple of locals selling some things that might make nice Christmas presents. We have one artist selling some cute little paintings, and we have someone else who will be selling essential oils. The event starts at noon and will probably go until about 5 pm or so. We’ll have cocoa and cookies also to enjoy while browsing.” (41st SW/SW Alaska)

HOLIDAY WINE RELEASE: Happening today (and tomorrow!) at Viscon Cellars (WSB sponsor). Two new wines: “Our new Holiday wine release includes a 2014 Chardonnay called ‘The Betrayal’ and a 2013 Merlot called ‘Heart Box Red.’ Past vintages of these same wines have won several awards and these two new wines follow in their great heritage.” 5-9 pm tonight, 2-7 pm Saturday. (5910 California SW)

HOLIDAY MOVIES: Short at 6:15, main feature at 7 pm, at Highland Park Improvement Club. Free – bring $ for concessions. Full details, including movie hints, on the HPIC website. (12th SW/SW Holden)

BELLS OF THE SOUND: Sounds of the holiday! Bells of the Sound live at Tibbetts United Methodist Church (WSB sponsor): This year’s holiday concert is “Holiday Special,” featuring songs from beloved holiday-season TV specials. Come see and hear Puget Sound’s premier handbell ensemble at 7:30 pm – “as we reminisce with songs from our favorite holiday television specials including ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,’ ‘The Year Without Santa Claus,’ and ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’.” show and ticket details here – suggested donation $10/adults, $8/youth and seniors. (3940 41st SW)

FESTIVAL OF LESSONS AND CAROLS: Northwest Boychoir‘s annual “Festival of Lessons and Carols” at Holy Rosary Church, 7:30 pm. Five singers are from West Seattle, the announcement says:

They include Jackson Cecil and Hayden Wainwright, both 15 and at Garfield HS and Northwest School respectively, and 14-year-old Washington MS students Claire Ellerwood and Livia Woelfle. 12-year-old Emilya Buck is at Madison MS. The talented boys worked their way over many years to the top Performing Choir, and graduated to Vocalpoint! Seattle, where they were joined by the girls. They perform these thrilling concerts alongside the Northwest Boychoir that have become a holiday tradition for thousands of families in the Puget Sound region and showcase the 90-member combined chorus.

More info, including ticketing, here. (42nd SW/SW Genesee)

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET: 7:30 pm performance tonight for the Twelfth Night Productions presentation of “Miracle on 34th Street: A Live Radio Play” at Kenyon Hall. Buy your ticket(s) online at this Brown Paper Tickets link, or before the show at the box office. (7904 35th SW)

Lots more in the Holiday Guide, including ongoing light shows, donation drives, more …

Now, from the year-round WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

(Thursday sunset photo by Dan E)

YOUTH SPEAKS SEATTLE POETRY SLAM! Doors, food, signups at 6 pm; slam starts 6:30 pm. Part of “an annual poetry slam series to build community, showcase the next generation of Seattle’s poetic changemakers, and to decide the top 5 poets to rep Seattle at Brave New Voices.” Go slam, or go watch and listen! At Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. More info in our calendar listing. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

HIGH-SCHOOL BASKETBALL: All four of the West Seattle High School and Chief Sealth International High School varsity teams are home tonight – WSHS girls and boys hosting Bishop Blanchet, 7 pm and 8:30 pm respectively (3000 California SW); CSIHS girls hosting Holy Names, 7 pm, boys hosting O’Dea at 8:30 pm. (2600 SW Thistle)

SQUIRREL BUTTER: Live at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

‘MELANCHOLIC POP’ with three bands at Parliament Tavern. 21+. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

(Western Grebe, photographed by Mark Wangerin. Curious about its leg? Read this.)

From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and Holiday Guide:

DINE OUT FOR LAFAYETTE: 3-10 pm at Chipotle in The Junction, part of the proceeds benefit Lafayette Elementary. (4730 California SW)

TINKERLAB: With the High Point Library temporarily closed, Southwest Library is the place to go for today’s Tinkerlab drop-in session, focused on Finch Robots. 3:30-5 pm. (35th SW/SW Henderson)

CIRCLE OF SINGLES: 5 pm at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor). Event for singles 60+. (1936 Harbor SW)

SHOP LATE THURSDAY AT CLICK! Many Junction shops are open later than usual tonight – among them, longtime WSB sponsor Click! Design That Fits, with a special pop-up event in its loft – details here. (4540 California SW)

CAROLING IN THE JUNCTION: Join in holiday songs while you’re shopping The Junction tonight – meet up with Emerald City Voices at 6 pm at Junction Plaza Park “to join in a stroll around the Junction. You’ll be stopping at local businesses to sing the season with holiday cheer,” as part of Hometown Holidays. (42nd SW/SW Alaska)

DENNY CONCERT: Postponed last week because of weather, the Denny International Middle School winter band/orchestra concert is happening tonight, 6:30 pm at Chief Sealth International HS Auditorium. (2600 SW Thistle)

WSHS CONCERT: The West Seattle High School Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Orchestra are performing their Winter Concert tonight, 7 pm, in the WSHS Theater. (3000 California SW)

ORCA TALK: The Southern Resident Killer Whales’ situation is more precarious than ever. Tonight at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), The Whale Trail‘s first Orca Talk of the season brings you Lynne Barre from NOAA Fisheries with the latest on their status. Our preview includes ticket info – check to see if there’s room. (5612 California SW)

SHAKE THINGS UP: The monthly Alauda bellydancing showcase at The Skylark is at 7:30 tonight. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

LOTS MORE … for today and tonight – just check our complete calendar here.

(Bewick’s Wren, photographed by Mark Wangerin)

From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and Holiday Guide:

CRAFT FAIR: You’re invited to today’s Craft Fair at the Salvation Army, 10 am-6 pm. (9050 16th SW)

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: 10:30 am-11 am, for ages 3-5, at West Seattle (Admiral) Library. (2306 42nd SW)

LOCAL BIZ MEETUP: Entrepreneur? Proprietor? Wannabe businessperson? Noon-1:15 pm, come to this week’s free meetup at West Seattle’s only coworking center, Office Junction. (WSB sponsor; 6040 California SW)

DINE OUT BENEFIT FOR WSHS SOPHOMORES: 2-9 pm, Shelby’s in The Junction is donating a percentage of proceeds to the West Seattle High School sophomore class. (4752 California SW)

DINE OUT BENEFIT FOR ALKI ELEMENTARY: 3-9 pm at Chipotle in The Junction, a percentage of the proceeds benefit the Alki Elementary Learning Garden project. (4730 California SW)

FOOD DRIVE AT SOUTHWEST POOL: As we noted on Monday, you can bring in nonperishable-food donations during pool hours and/or bring in 3 items to get discounted prices for specific swims this week. Tonight – 7:30 pm public swim! (2801 SW Thistle)

BUILD A GINGERBREAD HOUSE: Free Gingerbread House Building Event for the community – Delridge Community Center, 6-7:30 pm. Must pre-register, barcode #158853, so call the center ASAP to register, 206-684-7423. (4501 Delridge Way SW)

CHRISTMAS PARTY: Trinity West Seattle hosts a free West Seattle Christmas Party for the community, 6 pm. Dessert bar, free photos with Santa Claus, Santa’s workshop for kids, live music. (7551 35th SW)

SANTA AT PEGASUS: Come get your Santa photos at Pegasus Pizza on Alki, 6-9 pm. Images free with any purchase. (2770 Alki SW)

‘GET FIT WEST SEATTLE’ INFO NIGHT: A new couch-to-half-marathon training program is about to start at West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor), and tonight at 7 pm, you’re invited to the store to find out about it. (2743 California SW)

34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS’ HOLIDAY PARTY: 7 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy, this month’s meeting is a holiday celebration. (9131 California SW)

AND THERE’S MORE … for today, tonight, and beyond, on our complete calendar.

(Downy woodpecker – our state’s smallest woodpecker! – photographed by Mark Wangerin)

From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and Holiday Guide:

FOOD DRIVE AT SOUTHWEST POOL: As we noted on Monday, you can drop off nonperishable-food donations during pool hours and/or bring in 3 items to get discounted prices for specific swims this week. Tonight – 8:30 pm water exercise. (2801 SW Thistle)

BABY STORY TIME: 10:30 am at Southwest Library, for 4- to 12-month-olds and their parents/guardians/caregivers. (35th SW/SW Henderson)

DINE OUT FOR OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE: 2-9 pm at Shelby’s Bistro and Ice Creamery, 10 percent of the proceeds today/tonight go to Our Lady of Guadalupe School. (4752 California SW)

COMMUNITY DIALOGUE ON SCHOOL DISCIPLINE: 6-8 pm at the Salvation Army in West Seattle, families and students are invited to this dialogue, presented by the Southwest King County Discipline Coalition, to help shape how schools in our state handle discipline. Whether you can or can’t be there, you’re also invited to take this survey. More info here. (9050 16th SW)

SOUTHWEST DISTRICT COUNCIL: 6:30 pm at the Sisson Building/Senior Center, it’s the meeting that had to be postponed when the city booked the big “open house” for last Wednesday. (Added) The agenda includes:

6:40 P.M. Election of 2017 Southwest District Council Officers

· Nominations for Chair and/or Co-Chairs: David Whiting, Eric Iwamoto
· Nominations for Vice Chair (see Co-Chairs)
· Nominations for Secretary: Vicki Schmitz Block
· Nominations for CNC Representative:

6:50 P.M. Discussion on changes to SWDC Bylaws

7:10 P.M. Proposed Rezone Changes

· Recap on last week’s HALA Mandatory Rezone Meeting(s) in West Seattle
· Overview of proposed changes

7:40 P.M. Southwest District Council Business

· CNC Update
· Announcements
· Other business

(4217 SW Oregon)

ADMIRAL NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION: 7 pm at The Sanctuary at Admiral, with an agenda – as previewed here – including a citywide proposal for a “renters’ commission.” (42nd SW/SW Lander)

COMMUNITY MEDITATION: 7 pm at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center: “Meditation instruction offered at the start of each evening, with tea and open discussion following group meditation for any who wish to participate.” Free. More info in our calendar listing. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

HOLIDAY CONCERT: Mozart Piano Concerto No. 12 & Warm Holiday Classics. West Seattle Community Orchestras‘ final concert of the season. “Our Intermediate Orchestra will perform familiar works by Bizet and Dvorak as well as a contemporary treatment of ‘Hatikvah,’ an Israeli traditional folk song. A special treat is the Mozart Piano Concerto No. 12, featuring the orchestra’s own piano prodigy, Vincent Pham, age 12. The Wind Symphony will follow up with classical wind ensemble pieces and holiday favorites including Leroy Anderson’s ‘Sleigh Ride’ and ‘A Christmas Festival’.” 7 pm, Chief Sealth International High School auditorium. FREE! (donations appreciated, of course!) (2600 SW Thistle)

CLASSIC COUNTRY: That’s what The Rolling Blackouts play, and they’re at Parliament Tavern 8-11 pm. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

(American Wigeon, photographed by Mark Wangerin)

Nothing in the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide for tonight – aside from ongoing light shows, tree lots, etc. – but the year-round WSB West Seattle Event Calendar is topped by one big event at two locations:

CITY OPEN HOUSE ABOUT REZONING, ROADS, PARKING, PARKS, MORE: Tonight’s the night. We’ve been talking about this for weeks – talking about the central topic, proposed rezoning for the Mandatory Housing Affordability component of the mayor’s Housing Affordability and Livability Agenda, for even longer – and this is your chance to ask questions and offer comments. Other topics you can learn and ask about and comment on are all listed in our big preview published Tuesday. Tonight’s locations, 5:30-7:30 pm – just drop in, no presentations planned – are Shelby’s in The Junction (4752 California SW) and Youngstown Cultural Arts Center in North Delridge (4408 Delridge Way SW).

P.S. In addition to the maps we’ve been showing – you will see a second version, just showing what’s proposed (not current zoning), at the open house. These maps have been added to the city’s feedback site at hala.consider.it (look for your nearest “urban village” on the dropdown, choose “expand map,” and scroll through both). Or, see just the second version of all West Seattle maps by going here.

Also happening today/tonight:

NETWORKING MEETUP: Working from home? Running your own business? Home on the peninsula for some other reason? West Seattle Office Junction (WSB sponsor) welcomes you to this week’s free networking meetup, noon-1:15 pm. (6040 California SW)

TOYS FOR TOYS, FINAL DAY: As mentioned here yesterday, today’s the final day of the Toys for Tots drive at John Moore‘s Northwest Insurance Group in Morgan Junction – drop off your new, unwrapped toy donation by 4:30 pm! (6055 California SW)

HIGH POINT LIBRARY CLOSURE CONTINUES: Just one more reminder – the High Point Library‘s closure for renovations continues. The reopening date isn’t yet set but it will be sometime in January.

SINGER-SONGWRITER, LIVE: Jim Page performs at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

HONKY-TONK, SWING, ROCK-N-ROLL, LIVE: Billy Joe Huels and the RC’s perform at Parliament Tavern, 8-11 pm. 21+. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

(WSB photo by Patrick Sand)

First, from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide:

CONCERT: West Seattle Community Orchestras‘ Brass Ensemble and Debut Orchestra: Great Beginnings! “It’s WSCO’s gift to the community, especially for our young folks, featuring orchestral and brass classics, and holiday favorites!” 6 pm, Chief Sealth International High School auditorium. FREE – donations appreciated. (2600 SW Thistle)

And from the year-round WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

DENNY DINE-OUT FUNDRAISER: 2-9 pm at Shelby’s in The Junction, 10 percent of the proceeds go to help Denny International Middle School. (4752 California SW)

JUNCTION NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATION: As previewed here, HALA rezoning, City Light lighting, and a Residential Parking Zone proposal are on the agenda. 6:30 pm, Sisson Building/Senior Center. (4217 SW Oregon)

FREE COMMUNITY MEDITATION: 7 pm @ Youngstown Cultural Arts Center – details here. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

SONGWRITER SHOWCASE: 8 pm-11 pm at Parliament Tavern, “a night of songs and stories.” (4210 SW Admiral Way)

LOTS MORE … on the calendar!