Will orcas head this way again today? You just never know. Thanks to Rod Hatfield for the photo, taken from Alki Point (during the orca visit noted here Tuesday). Here are highlights from what we DO know is on the schedule for today/tonight:

FABRICATING FLAIR: Button-making for teens, 12-16, 2 pm at Delridge Branch Library (early time because it’s early-release day for most schools) – details in our calendar listing. (5423 Delridge Way SW)

DESC DELRIDGE PROJECT ADVISORY COMMITTEE: The DESC Delridge Supportive Housing building is close to opening; if you have questions or just want to hear about the latest details, you’re welcome at tonight’s advisory committee meeting at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, 6:30 pm. Here’s the agenda. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

FREE PARENTING SEMINAR: Toddler(s) in the house? SSCC Cooperative Preschools present a free seminar on guidance and discipline, 7-9 pm tonight at Tibbetts United Methodist Church (WSB sponsor) – details in our calendar listing, including RSVP e-mail address. (3940 41st SW)

And from the WSB West Seattle Halloween Guide (which includes events through this weekend – send yours ASAP if you haven’t already!):

GIRL JAM HALLOWEEN PARTY: 6 pm-close, Feedback Lounge presents Girl Jam Halloween Party. Costumed staff with Gia pouring Halloween-themed cocktail and wine specials; classic public-domain horror movies on the big screen. (6451 California SW)

TUG INN HALLOWEEN PARTY: 9 pm tonight, the annual karaoke/costume party – including a $200 grand prize! Details on this Facebook event page. (2216 SW Orchard)

(Sunday afternoon Alki photo by Bill Bacon)
Welcome to a new week! From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

WEST SEATTLE EDUCATION FAIR, SPONSORED BY WSB: If you are school-shopping for next year, come to the gym at Seattle Lutheran High School tonight, 6:30-8:30 pm, to talk with representatives of 18 local schools, pre-K through middle grades. It’s the West Seattle Education Fair, hosted and presented by SLHS, sponsored by WSB. Admission free. (4100 SW Genesee)

(Photo by David French – one of two boarders he says were headed from Alki to Lincoln Park)
RESTAURANT OPENING: Today marks 2 weeks since our last update on the Alki Fatburger restaurant, in which one of its proprietors told us they hoped to open in “2 to 4 weeks.” This morning, Alki resident Peter tells us a sign on the door says it’s opening at 11 am today. We’ll be checking on that! (61st/Alki)

TIME TO SPARE AT NOON? Daystar Toastmasters would love to meet you and help you work on your speaking skills/style. Noon at Daystar across from Westwood Village. (2615 SW Barton)

LAST CALL TO REGISTER TO VOTE: If you haven’t been registered in this state before, today is your last chance to sign up in time to vote in the November 5th election – but you have to do it in person; scroll down that linked page for location info.

SEAHAWKS ON MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL: Along with the regular haunts for watching, Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) is in for the Seahawks vs. Rams game tonight, 5:40 pm, on the big screen; details on the FL home page. (6451 California SW)

FREE CLASS: “Introduction to Pranic Healing,” 6:30 pm at Chaco Canyon Organic Café in The Triangle; details in our calendar listing. (37th/Alaska)

As wearisome as the fog might seem from beneath it, we (and many others) just can’t resist the beautiful views from outside it! The Wednesday view is from Max (thanks!). Now, on to highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

WEST SEATTLE GARDEN CLUB: Meeting under way now and continues until 2 pm – drop in for all or part of it (afternoon program focuses on the Seattle Chinese Garden on Puget Ridge) – agenda details in our calendar listing.

FREE LUNCH: Monthly soup/sandwich community lunch at Seaview United Methodist Church – details in our calendar listing. (4620 SW Graham)

BEER TASTING: Today at Metropolitan Market (WSB sponsor), 4 pm – details in our calendar listing.

HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL AND FREE FAMILY SWIM: From the WSB West Seattle Halloween Guide – Southwest Pool is hosting a carnival and family swim tonight; details in our calendar listing. Carnival starts at 6; free swim starts at 7 pm. (2801 SW Thistle)

MORE HALLOWEEN ACTIVITIES: Three other community centers – Alki, Delridge, Hiawatha – have Halloween/Fall carnivals tonight too, and that’s not all – check the Halloween Guide to see what’s up.

HOBOSEXUAL AT EASY STREET: West Seattle’s own Hobosexual is live tonight at Easy Street Records in The Junction, 7 pm, to celebrate the release of “Hobosexual II.” All-ages show. (California/Alaska)

FRIDAY NIGHT TRIBUTE TO SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER: The Gee Bees, paying tribute to the Bee Gees‘ Saturday Night Fever music, perform at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) at 9 pm. Disco ball? White suits? Go see (and hear) for yourself. (6451 California SW)

Lots more on our calendar!

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2713 in The Triangle is sharing news of an essay contest – multiple topics for multiple grade levels. Entries are due at the end of next week, though, so get word to your favorite young writer(s) fast! Here’s the document with details:

VFW Essay Contest

Kyle Geraghty from Post 2713 adds, “The entrants do not have to have an affiliation with the VFW to enter. All entries must be delivered to the West Seattle VFW Post, located at 3601 SW Alaska St., no later than November 1, 2013. If no one is there, just put it in the mail slot. The top three winners at the local level will receive prizes and have the opportunity to compete at higher levels for even bigger prizes and recognition.”

(Tuesday photo by Elodie Daquila)
We’ve lost count of how many foggy days in a row we’ve had. But the fog can bring beauty, as well. Meantime, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

COMMUNITY ART SHOWCASE: Stop by the Southwest Branch Library during regular hours (today, that’s 10 am-8 pm) and admire the work of your West Seattle neighbors during this year’s Community Art Showcase! (35th/Henderson)

‘CLOTHESPIN ON A WIRE’: Pop-up shop at Bird on a Wire Espresso, including “authentic German fare” – full details in our calendar listing. 6-9 pm (SW Henderson just west of 35th SW)

WEST SEATTLE TIMEBANK: Yes, you have time to become part of this! Great way to get what you need, and help someone who can use your skills. It’s the next orientation for the West Seattle Timebank (here’s how it works), 6:30 pm potluck, 7 pm meeting, Senior Center of West Seattle. (California/Oregon)

HIGHLAND PARK ACTION COMMITTEE: Monthly meeting tonight at 7 at Highland Park Improvement Club:

We’ll be discussing adding our name to the growing list of endorsements for the West Seattle Transportation Coalition, meeting our current Community Police Officer (bring your questions and concerns), some news about addressing pedestrian and vehicular safety along Roxbury, and other exciting things happening in the neighborhood.

HPIC is at 12th/Holden.

BIG VOLLEYBALL GAME: As previewed here on Tuesday, it’s a division-leadership varsity-volleyball clash tonight at 7 between West Seattle High School and visiting Chief Sealth International High School at the WSHS Gym. Admission free, all invited (and welcome to cheer on local student athletes); it’s also Senior Night for WSHS. (3000 California SW)

POEMS AND STORIES: Monthly poetry/storytelling event at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), details in our calendar listing. (5612 California SW)

Lots more on the calendar!

More fencing went up this morning around the building on the southeast corner of California/Alaska, where sidewalks will be *temporarily* blocked off during the Equity Residential project demolition over the next several days (full details in this update from last Friday). Also happening today/tonight – highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

MICROHOUSING-RULES COMMENT DEADLINE: Speaking of development, have something to say about the city’s proposed rules regarding so-called “microhousing”? In case you missed our earlier story about the proposals (and the West Seattle projects in process) – see it here; today’s the city deadline for comments.

TOLLS ON I-90 BRIDGE? As previewed here over the weekend, the state has two meetings this week for your comments on potential I-90 bridge tolling, and the first one is tonight, 4-7 pm at Mercer Island High School. (If you can’t make it to a meeting, our preview also includes how to send your comment via e-mail.)

DUWAMISH DREAMS: The Duwamish River is more than an industrial waterway, more than a Superfund cleanup site – it’s a river within a city, home to wildlife, and the center of hopes, dreams, and years of work, past, present, and future, to help bring it fully back to life. Tonight, hear and talk about it during a community forum presented by Sustainable West Seattle at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7 pm. (5612 California SW)

HEAR ABOUT ‘LUNA GIRLS’ PLAN: As first reported here earlier this month, there’s a new plan for where to install local artist Lezlie Jane‘s new “Luna Girls on Alki” sculpture, and you are invited to hear about it and comment on it during a 6:30 pm meeting tonight at Marination ma kai (WSB sponsor) at Seacrest Pier. (1660 Harbor Ave. SW)

EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHER? HOMESCHOOLER? You’re invited to an event presented tonight by the West Seattle Preschool Association – “Sing Into Reading” with Nancy Stewart, regarding the “importance of music and singing in early childhood development … In this workshop participants will learn the six early reading skills, and how singing is vital in building them.” 7-9 pm at Sweet Pea Cottage Preschool. (7141 California SW)

IT’S NOT TRIVIAL: Check the calendar – only place you’ll find EVERY listing we have for today, tonight, and far beyond – for tonight’s three listed trivia and pub-quiz events!

(Lincoln Park in the fog, by Michelle Riggen-Ransom, shared via the WSB Flickr group)
Not far from where that photo was taken, Fauntleroy’s big Fall Festival happens this afternoon, and it’s at the heart of today’s highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

CITYWIDE TRAFFIC ALERTS: In a Saturday comment, GMT mentioned that 4th is closed at Jackson on the south side of downtown; that northbound detour, scheduled to be in effect until late tonight, is part of the citywide-alerts roundup you can see here if you’re planning on heading off-peninsula today.

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: The market is in its usual spot 10 am-2 pm today BUT remember that NEXT Sunday (October 27), it will move into the streets as part of the second annual West Seattle Junction Harvest Festival. (44th/Alaska)

WORK PARTY AT CHINESE GARDEN: 10 am-noon, you are invited to help keep the grounds of the Seattle Chinese Garden beautiful. It’s just north of the South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor) campus. (6000 16th SW)

GEAR SWAP, DAY 2: 11 am-3 pm, Mountain to Sound Outfitters‘ annual winter gear swap concludes. Not at the store – a few doors down, at American Legion Post 160 Hall. (3618 SW Alaska)

DAKOTA PLACE PARK NEEDS YOU! The park just north of The Junction can use some TLC going into late fall/winter, so your help 1-3 pm today will be much appreciated. Details here. (California/Dakota)

FAUNTLEROY FALL FESTIVAL: 2-5:30 pm today, in and around Fauntleroy Schoolhouse and Fauntleroy Church/Y! Music, performances, pumpkin-painting, pony rides, a percussion jam for teens … Lots of info in our previews:

*Festival lineup here
*Focus on “green” activities and music here
*Dance! West Seattle preview here
*Baking a cake to bring for the cakewalk (pre-festival)? Info here

The venues are right across the street from each other, 9131 and 9140 California SW (map); there’s parking behind the schoolhouse, and the RapidRide C Line stops right by the church/schoolhouse. See you there!

WEST SEATTLE COOKING CLUB: The theme for today’s meeting is “On a Stick,” so cook a recipe that qualifies and bring it to the 3 pm WSCC meetup at Beveridge Place Pub. (6419 California SW)

LIVE MUSIC AND MORE ON THE CALENDAR … what we’ve spotlighted above is only PART of what’s up today/tonight; go here for the rest.

Thanks to David Hutchinson for sharing another excellent view of last night’s moonrise! It’ll be a while before we see the sun today, but there is MUCH to do, so get on out into the fog and check out some of the following:

TRAFFIC ALERT: No word if the fog is affecting this, but the weekly road-work “lookahead”listed lane closures on the northbound 1st Avenue South Bridge this morning, until 1 pm, for inspections. The WSB Traffic page includes camera views from the bridge, if you want to check for backups.

WESTSIDE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 10 am-noon, it’s an all-school open house at Westside School (WSB sponsor):

Prospective families will have an opportunity to take a self-guided tour of the campus as well as speak to teachers about their program. In addition, Westside School is offering weekly tours by reservation. The PreK-8th grade application deadline is January 14, 2014.

Westside is at 7740 34th SW.

LINCOLN PARK P-PATCH PUMPKIN FESTIVAL: Just uphill from the tennis courts across from northern Lincoln Park, you’ll find the Lincoln Park P-Patch and its Pumpkin Harvest Festival – with carving and pie pumpkins, a bake sale, seeds and bulbs, and more – details in our calendar listing. 10 am-1 pm. (7400 Fauntleroy Way SW)

DUWAMISH ALIVE! You can volunteer at one of several sites along the Duwamish River and/or in its watershed, from West Seattle to South Park to Tukwila, for today’s 10 am-2 pm twice-yearly work party. Details here and in our preview, which includes a map of the sites.

GEAR SWAP: 10 am-6 pm today, come see what’s available at the winter gear swap presented by Mountain to Sound Outfitters. But don’t go to the store – the swap is happening a few doors down at the American Legion Hall. (3618 SW Alaska)

PET ADOPTION EVENT: 10 am-2 pm at Umpqua Bank in the Admiral District – details here. (2620 California SW)

CASPAR BABYPANTS LIVE: The monthly Family Fun Series at High Point Community Center resumes with this morning’s 10:30 am performance by Caspar Babypants – details (including ticket prices) in our calendar listing. (6920 34th SW)

OPERA PREVIEW: The West Seattle chapter of the Seattle Opera Guild comes to The Kenney (WSB sponsor) for a preview of “Daughter of the Regiment.” They’ll also be selling the new “Entertainment” book as a benefit. 3:30 pm. (7125 Fauntleroy Way SW)

‘WAG THE DOG’ – AND MORE: If the now-over government shutdown, the impending elections, or both have you in the mood to talk politics, start your night with the Admiral Theater‘s screening of this classic political satire, 4 pm.

Tickets are $8, OR you can see it as part of a $30 package with the 7:30 pm performance of ArtsWest‘s “The Taming” and a post-play discussion, as explained here. (The Admiral’s at 2343 California SW, ArtsWest is at 4711 California SW)

HULING BOWL: West Seattle High School is this year’s host for the crosstown football clash with a trophy at stake, and it’s starting things off with 5:30 pm tailgating at West Seattle Stadium before the 7 pm game against Chief Sealth International High School. (4432 35th SW)

UKULELES AT THE FEEDBACK: “Seattle’s loudest ukulele band” The Castaways‘ CD release party is tonight at 9:30 pm, Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor). (6451 California SW)

We’re feeling the need for MORE sunshine imagery to make it through this foggy morning, so here’s a photo that Jeff Pond shared via Facebook, taken earlier this week – a Washington State Ferry on the Fauntleroy run, majestic Mount Rainier in the background. While awaiting the sun’s return, we present highlights for today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

SCHMITZ PARK MOVE-A-THON: Happening until 2:30 pm – did you see the teachers’ music video showcased here last night? Schmitz Park Elementary School is celebrating fitness, and raising funds, all day. (50th/Spokane)

DROPOFFS FOR WINTER GEAR SWAP: Mountain to Sound Outfitters in The Triangle is having its annual gear swap, and you can drop off items to sell, all day today, until 7 pm. Drop it off at M2SO – more info (including swap location/times) in our calendar listing. (3602 SW Alaska)

HAPPY NINTH ANNIVERSARY, CLICK! In The Junction, Click! Design That Fits (WSB sponsor) is celebrating its ninth anniversary tonight. Come by for treats and sips (and of course shopping!), and offer your congratulations. 5-9 pm; here’s the Facebook event page. (4540 California SW)

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Check to see if there are still openings in this benefit for the West Seattle High School sophomore class, a babysitting event 5:30-10 pm, details here. (3000 California SW)

RESTORATIVE YOGA: Unwind with this special workshop at SoundYoga (WSB sponsor), 6:30 pm, details here.

HALLOWED HUNT AND COSTUME CONTEST: Tweens and teens are invited to Hiawatha Community Center, 6:30-8:30 pm – go here to see what’s in store. (2700 California SW)

FREE MOVIE: It’s Movie Night at Highland Park Improvement Club – doors open 6:30 pm, movie at 7. Free admission; bring $ for concessions. Details including the movie hint are in our calendar listing. (12th/Holden)

MEGA-TUPPERWARE PARTY: As previewed here earlier this week, it’s Tupperware time, with Sylvia O’Stayformore and LaTrina Bidet – free to attend, but a big chunk of proceeds from sales will benefit seniors via the Senior Center of West Seattle, which is where the party is happening tonight at 7.

FULL MOON TREK IN LINCOLN PARK: Ages 8 and up, get out into the night air with nature’s own nightlight – the full moon – during a guided hike. Pre-registration requested – as explained in our calendar listing.

SCARY DUWAMISH STORIES: Get an early start on Halloween with scary Duwamish stories told by Johnny Moses at the Duwamish Longhouse, 7 pm. (Warning: “Scary and gory”!) Details in our calendar listing.

NELSON WRIGHT: Americana-style singer/songwriter Nelson Wright is live at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

DENNY/SEALTH JAZZ CONCERT: As previewed here on Thursday, visiting jazz educator/musician Ron Carter is performing with the jazz bands from Denny International Middle School and Chief Sealth International High School, 7:30 pm at the Sealth Auditorium. Admission is free; donations benefit the schools’ music programs. (2600 SW Thistle)

Thanks to Machel Spence, who reports that mushroom season is in full bloom at Lincoln Park, sharing her photo of a beautiful Amanita, while noting that it should be left “in the forest to do its job.” (And not just because most Amanitas are poisonous!) On to our Thursday calendar highlights:

TODDLER STORY TIME: 11:30 am at High Point Branch Library, bring the 1- and 2-year-olds for story time! Free. (35th/Raymond)

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, LAVIDA MASSAGE: Today marks the second anniversary for LaVida Massage (WSB sponsor) at Jefferson Square in The Junction. And as so many businesses do on their anniversaries, this one is giving the gift – along with the $39.95 one-hour special for new clients, they’re offering free aromatherapy to new and ongoing clients – just ask about the anniversary aromatherapy special, valid through Halloween. (42nd/Alaska)

HEALTH-CARE CONFUSION? Experts help you untangle it, from a businessperson’s perspective, at the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce lunch meeting, 11:30 am at The Kenney (WSB sponsor). Reservations preferred but you can also pay at the door. (7125 Fauntleroy Way SW)

COLLEGE APPLICATION EVENT: It’s at West Seattle High School but open to ALL twelfth-graders. After school, starting at 2:30 pm, come get help with college applications – details in our calendar listing. (3000 California SW)

PIANO BAR/CAFE! LGBT SOCIAL FOR 50+: Fun, informal get-together for LGBT adults 50+ at the Senior Center of West Seattle at 6 pm, with live piano music, food, and no-host beer and wine. Questions? Call Dave at 206-243-3053. (California/Oregon)

ALKI COMMUNITY COUNCIL: Monthly meeting at 7 pm, parlor at Alki UCC. Agenda items include the West Seattle Water Taxi, WS Transportation Coalition, development, and the new site for the Luna Girls on Alki sculpture. (6115 SW Hinds)

‘THE TAMING’: Onstage at ArtsWest in The Junction, the first production of the new season continues, with a 7:30 pm performance of Lauren Gunderson‘s “The Taming.” (4711 California SW)

Thanks to Lynn Hall for sharing last night’s colorful sunset view from Luna/Anchor Park. By the time we get to tonight’s sunset, a busy night will be under way, as evidenced by these highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

BOUNDARIES INTRODUCED AT SCHOOL BOARD: The Seattle School Board‘s meeting starts at 4:15 pm, but the introduction of the second draft of the “Growth Boundaries” (here’s WSB coverage from last Friday; here’s the district page with details) is not scheduled until after 6 pm; public comment – for which the list is already locked in (see the revised agenda) – begins at 5 pm. (3rd and Lander)

EXPLORER WEST MIDDLE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 6:30-8:00 pm, come visit Explorer West (longtime WSB sponsor):

Explorer West welcomes prospective parents and students to drop by at 6:30pm to begin an interactive school tour including art and drama demonstrations. Meet faculty and current parents/students as well as try out some classroom activities. If you cannot make it this week, additional Open Houses will be held on Saturday, November 16th, 10-11:30 am & Tuesday, December 10th, 6:30-8 pm.

More information is available at explorer-west.org

(Explorer West is at 10015 28th SW)

MORGAN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION: MoCA’s quarterly meeting, 7 pm in the lower-level meeting room at The Kenney (WSB sponsor). Busy agenda including City Council candidates Kshama Sawant and Sam Bellomio, as well as speakers on behalf of the West Seattle Transportation Coalition, the West Seattle Green Space Coalition, Getting It Right-West Seattle, and more. See the full agenda on the MoCA home page. (7125 Fauntleroy Way SW)

CHIEF SEALTH PTSA: 7 pm in the library at Chief Sealth International High School, the Sealth PTSA will hear from new principal Aida Fraser-Hammer with an overview of the school year, ASB treasurer Randi Rankin with an update on what’s going on with the student body (including this year’s Grad Night), and community partners including the Y will provide updates too, according to PTSA president Ted Reed. (2600 SW Thistle)

HARBOR SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: The first fall open house for Harbor School (WSB sponsor), a Vashon Island independent school for 4th-8th graders, 7 pm. (15920 Vashon Highway SW)

DELRIDGE NEIGHBORHOODS DISTRICT COUNCIL: Reps from community groups/organizations around eastern West Seattle meet tonight at 7 at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. The agenda includes Pierce Murphy, the director of the city Office of Professional Accountability, as well as an update on the Barton combined-sewer-overflow-control project. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

LAUGH IT OFF: The next comedy night at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) is tonight, 8 pm, hosted by West Seattle’s own Mona Concepcion – see the lineup in our calendar listing. (6451 California SW)

(More Delridge fall colors, this time from Flickr member alextutu1821 via the WSB Flickr group)
Busy news day already, but we’re taking a minute to call out four things happening later today/tonight:

WSHS VS. SEALTH SOCCER: The girls-varsity soccer rematch is this afternoon, 3:30 pm at Hiawatha Playfield – division-leading West Seattle High School taking on crosstown rivals Chief Sealth International High School. (2700 California SW)

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRAS: Music-maker in your family, young or not-that-young? The WSCOs welcome new members – just come to a weekly rehearsal; tonight marks week 2 for the current season. 5:30 pm at Chief Sealth IHS – see the WSCO website for full details. (2600 SW Thistle)

WEST SEATTLE CRIME PREVENTION COUNCIL: How does King County Drug Court work? Find out from tonight’s featured guests. Also hear about crime trends from, and bring up your neighborhood concerns with, local police leadership. Meeting’s at 7 pm, Southwest Precinct meeting room. (Off Webster west of Delridge)

PUBLIC HEALTH CAFE: Come talk about GMOs and I-522 before the ballots arrive – details in our calendar listing. 7 pm at Chaco Canyon Café in The Triangle. (38th/Alaska)

See the rest of what’s up today/tonight/beyond by browsing the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar!

(Lincoln Park beach creations; photo by Mark Ahlness via the WSB Flickr group, where you’ll find other views too)
Before we hit noontime – a few notes about today and tonight:

COLUMBUS DAY CLOSURES: Today is a holiday for the U.S. Postal Service, and for some if not all banks. (Let us know if you know of one that’s open – checking regional/national announcements, it seems there are some here and there.) It is NOT a parking-meter/pay-station holiday for Seattle, so if you are in/going to a neighborhood that has paid street parking, keep that in mind.

THE HEAD & THE HEART PERFORM: As previewed here on Sunday, hot band The Head & The Heart performs at 6 pm at Easy Street Records, celebrating their new album – with wristbands guaranteeing a spot going to those who buy it at ESR starting at noon today. Then at 9 pm, it’s the release party for Pearl Jam‘s new album (sorry, no live show with THAT one, that we know of!). Find more details on the ESR website. (California/Alaska)

LEGO MANIA! Build and play at Delridge Branch Library tonight, 6-7:30 pm. (5423 Delridge Way SW)

TRANSPORTATION FORUM: Want to show state legislators that you want a transportation-funding solution? Tonight’s the Seattle stop on their statewide tour – 6-9 pm at First Presbyterian Church downtown; details and a map are in our calendar listing.

DOING GOOD IN THE ‘HOOD: That’s the theme of tonight’s North Delridge Neighborhood Council meeting, with visitors and members discussing multiple opportunities to make a difference in the community (including via NDNC itself) – agenda details are on the NDNC website. 6:30 pm at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

PIGEON POINT NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL … is meeting tonight as well, 7 pm at Pathfinder K-8 School‘s cafeteria; agenda details are in our calendar listing. (1901 SW Genesee)

the big transit hearing – mention that in the morning traffic update too

Thanks to Mark Wangerin for today’s featured photo! He says it’s a Surfbird, adding: “They have returned to Alki now in reliable-to-see flocks of 25 or so. Black Turnstones can be seen with them.”

For today’s highlights, check out our calendar here – click the “plus” sign on the right side of individual listings to get full details on events including:

*Alki UCC Blessing of the Animals service at 10 am
*West Seattle Wedding Showcase at Dakota Place Park, 1-4 pm
*City Fruit cider press at West Seattle Nursery, 1-4 pm
*Ladies’ Musical Club concert at West Seattle Library, 3 pm
*Two Brothers Winery release event at Belli Capelli, 3-6 pm
*Booze, Balls, and Bingo benefit at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 5 pm

(WSB photo: Crows at Junction Plaza Park on Thursday afternoon)
Options for your Saturday, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

TIBBETTS RUMMAGE SALE, DAY 2: 9 am-3 pm, from cookware to clothing to crystal and much more, rooms of stuff on sale at Tibbetts United Methodist Church (WSB sponsor) in the second and final day of their big fall rummage sale. (3940 41st SW)

ELECTRONICS RECYCLING AT PCC: 9 am-4 pm, drop off your unwanted electronics and metal items at PCC Natural Markets-West Seattle (WSB sponsor) to be recycled, free! Find a list of what will be accepted by going here. (California/Stevens)

COSTUME SWAP: A different kind of recycling – bring in a gently used Halloween costume, and swap it for another one, starting at 10 am at City Mouse Studio and Store in The Junction, as previewed here. (4218 SW Alaska)

FIRST HOLIDAY BAZAAR OF THE SEASON: 10 am-4 pm at the Masonic Center in The Junction. (40th/Edmunds)

LOG HOUSE MUSEUM VOLUNTEERING: 11 am-1 pm at the Southwest Seattle Historical Society‘s Log House Museum, it’s the next session for prospective volunteers, as explained on the LHM website. They would love to see you! (61st/Stevens)

CATS IN SEARCH OF FOREVER HOMES: Two places you can go to meet your next feline companion(s) today – a one-time-only event at the Alki Community Center with adoptable foster felines via the Seattle Animal Shelter, noon-3 pm (details in our calendar listing), and Kitty Harbor, noon-6 pm (on Harbor Ave. SW north of the West Seattle Bridge).

FIND YOUR ROOTS: 1:30-5:30 pm, come to the West Seattle (Admiral) Branch Library for a free class/workshop on genealogical research – explained in our calendar listing. (2306 42nd SW)

REFLECTIONS ON RESTORATION: Come to Roxhill Park/Bog 2-4 pm to find out more about its long restoration process – details in our calendar listing.

FIRST NATIONS CELEBRATION: The Duwamish Tribe honors the First Nations with a program this afternoon-evening at their West Seattle longhouse. Details in our calendar listing. 4-7 pm. (4205 West Marginal Way SW)

NIGHTLIFE: See live-music listings for tonight on the calendar!

(Fall colors on Delridge Way – photo by Flickr member old desolate, via the WSB Flickr group)
Long list of major local happenings for today/tonight – check it out!

FIREFIGHTER STORY TIME: 11 am, Southwest Branch Library, it’s your only chance this time around to bring kids to meet local firefighters and learn a fun, important lesson about fire safety. (35th/Henderson)

NORTHWEST CENTER TOUR: As previewed this morning, employers are invited to find out firsthand what it’s like to have an inclusive workforce, by touring NW Center’s nearby HQ at 12:15 pm. If you can’t make it today, there’s another tour next Thursday – details in our story. (7272 West Marginal Way S.)

HIGH-SCHOOL VARSITY SPORTS: West Seattle High School soccer is on the road today, 3:30 pm, playing Nathan Hale at Addams Playfields in the north end; both WSHS and Chief Sealth IHS varsity volleyball teams play on their respective home courts at 7 pm. (WSHS, 3000 California SW; Sealth. 2600 SW Thistle)

WEST SEATTLE FOOD BANK OPEN HOUSE: 5-7 pm, celebrate an anniversary, a book, and the fight against hunger in our community. From Judi at WSFB:

Please join the West Seattle Food Bank at their 30th Anniversary Open House. Take a tour and learn how they serve the West Seattle Community. They’ll be serving appetizers and beverages as well as wine tasting with their partner’s Sozo. Get your “hot off the press” copy of “Hunger Immortal: The first 30 years of the West Seattle Food Bank, 1983-2013” written and autographed by long time WSFB board member Rev. Ron Marshall. The book will cost $30 with all proceeds going to the West Seattle Food Bank. Share with your friends, everyone is welcome! Thanks to event sponsors Husky Deli & Catering and Elliott Bay Brewery.

(35th and Morgan)

5 ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS: Plan your health-care future with expert help – free event (no RSVP required!) at Emeritus at Admiral Heights (WSB sponsor). Starts with refreshments at 5:30 pm; details in our calendar listing. (2326 California SW)

WEST SEATTLE ART WALK: New venues have joined the list/map for the fall quarter – including brand-new venue Pershing Hall in The Triangle – so take a fresh look at where to go and who to see for tonight’s Art Walk, 6-9 pm. Here’s the walking map/venue list, and here’s the official WSAW website with artist/venue previews.

CHIEF SEALTH IHS OPEN HOUSE/CURRICULUM NIGHT: For Chief Sealth International High School students’ families, it’s the big night to meet teachers and find out more about what’s happening this year. 6-8 pm. (2600 SW Thistle)

DESIGN REVIEW MEETING: 6:30 pm at the Senior Center of West Seattle, the Southwest Design Review Board gets another look at 4435 35th SW, the mixed-use building that was first proposed in 2009, then shelved, then redesigned, and now working its way through the system. Here’s our preview, including a link to the design “packet,” showing what architect GGLO and developers Trinsic are proposing. All welcome at tonight’s meeting, which will include a public-comment period. (California/Oregon)

PARKS BOARD CONSIDERS BICYCLE-POLICY UPDATE: Seattle Parks is considering an update to the 20-year-old policy about bicycle use in parks, and the public hearing is at tonight’s Parks Board meeting downtown. Documents here and here – several West Seattle parks are named. Meeting’s at 6:30 pm at Parks HQ. (100 Dexter Ave. N.)

TEEN ALCOHOL/DRUG ABUSE COMMUNITY MEETING: 7-8:30 pm in the library at West Seattle High School – come talk about urgent community action to address teen drug/alcohol abuse, as detailed in the meeting announcement. (3000 California SW)

SEATTLE STAIRWAYS @ GSNC: Tonight’s regular meeting of the Genesee-Schmitz Neighborhood Council includes a presentation by Cathy and Jake Jaramillo, authors of “Seattle Stairway Walks.” 7 pm at West Side Presbyterian Church. (3601 California SW)

RAISE THE MINIMUM WAGE? From West Seattleite Brian Callanan – not happening in West Seattle, but includes local participation, and it’s a big topic for businesses and workers citywide:

The Seattle Channel is covering a hot topic Thursday night: The possibility of raising the minimum wage. It’s a huge part of the local political races in Seattle and the focus of a controversial ballot measure in the city of SeaTac this November. Come voice your opinions as part of our live studio audience in a forum at NewHolly Gathering Hall at 7054 32nd Avenue South at 7 pm. Admission is free, but please register at seattlechannel.org. More details here. Husky Deli’s own Jack Miller has agreed to be on our panel to talk about business impacts in West Seattle, so come out and let your voices be heard, too!

NIGHTLIFE: Big night here too! Music, pub quiz, open microphone, much more – see all the listings right on our calendar.

Thanks to Matthew Olson for that photo of a belted kingfisher, spotted Monday on a piling near Duwamish Head. Now, we take wing into Wednesday’s highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

NEED HELP WITH HEALTH-INSURANCE SIGNUPS? Affordable Care Act nfo session 11 am-3 pm today at Delridge Branch Library; details in our calendar listing. (5423 Delridge Way SW)

HIGH POINT MARKET GARDEN FARM STAND: Final Wednesday to check it out, 4-7 pm – organic produce sold steps away from where it was grown. Info in our calendar listing. (32nd/Juneau)

CHINESE CORNER – STILL ROOM! This series of free every-other-week lessons in Chinese language and culture at the Seattle Chinese Garden still has room for YOU to sign up – the next installment is 4-6 pm today, and our calendar listing has signup info. (6000 16th SW, north side of South Seattle Community College [WSB sponsor] campus)

34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS: Tonight’s agenda for the monthly gathering of West Seattle’s biggest political group includes speakers on immigration reform – David Ayala-Zamora, director of One America – and the newly renamed West Seattle Transportation Coalition. 7 pm, The Hall at Fauntleroy. (9131 California SW)

PURSE POKER: The new Wednesday night game starts at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) at 7 pm. (6451 California SW)

(Saturday photo by Trileigh Tucker)
In the Tuesday list of highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, tonight’s your big chance to get involved (or get MORE involved) with your community:

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRAS: Rehearsals tonight at Chief Sealth International High School kick off the new season of the WS Community Orchestras. Here’s their recent announcement – all musicians welcome to join, including youth! 5:30 pm. (2600 SW Thistle)

HIGH POINT NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION: 6 pm at Neighborhood House’s High Point Center – all welcome. Here’s the agenda. (6400 Sylvan Way SW)

WORKING TO END HUMAN TRAFFICKING: That’s the topic to be tackled tonight at Our Lady of Guadalupe‘s Parish Life Center. Brian Callanan, who is moderating, tells WSB: “We’re showing a video from the Journey to Freedom Foundation as well as hosting four expert panelists on the topic: Robert Beiser from Seattle Against Slavery, Peter Qualliotine from Organization of Prostitution Survivors, Hao Nguyen from API Chaya, and Anna Clarke of the Intercommunity Peace and Justice Center. We’ll open it up to public questions at the end.” 6:30 pm. (35th/Myrtle)

WEST SEATTLE TRANSIT COALITION: 6:30 pm at Neighborhood House’s High Point Center, the interim board has its first meeting, everybody welcome. See the agenda on the WSTC website. (6400 Sylvan Way SW)

RAISE PUPPIES, HELP PEOPLE: West Seattle See Dogs would love to have more prospective puppy-raisers come find out how to get involved – and tonight’s the perfect chance, with their regular meeting at The Kenney (WSB sponsor), 6:30 pm. (7125 Fauntleroy Way SW)

BALLOT MEASURES @ ANA: Three major ballot measures from next month’s election are on the agenda at tonight’s Admiral Neighborhood Association meeting – Charter Amendment 19, which would change the way Seattle City Council members are elected (7 district, 2 at-large); Seattle Proposition 1, for public financing of campaigns, to be discussed by 34th District Democrats chair Marcee Stone-Vekich; Statewide Initiative 522 (GMO labeling), to be discussed by State Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon. See the full agenda here. 7 pm, Admiral Congregational Church. (California/Hill)

FAUNTLEROY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION: The FCA‘s monthly board meeting is at 7 pm at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse. All welcome to see what’s happening in Fauntleroy’s busiest season, with the October 20th festival and more coming up. (9131 California SW)

Looking for live music and other nightlife? See our calendar!

Even if you have already seen that sunset photo on the WSB Facebook page, it’s well worth another look. Thanks to “Diver Laura” James for sharing the beauty! (And check out the one Dave Prosser shared in response!) Maybe our sunny Saturday will conclude with an encore (sunset/sunrise times and a LOT more are on the WSB West Seattle Weather page). But before then, here are some possibilities from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

TRAFFIC-ALERT REMINDER: Highway 99 closures and then overnight tonight, an I-5 ramp is closed too – all the details are here.

RUMMAGE/YARD SALE SEASON’S NOT OVER YET: Arbor Heights Community Church is having a big sale today, 9 am-3 pm (42nd and 102nd), and the WSB Forums‘ Sales/Freebies/Trades section has at least one new listing too – not too late to add yours (and if you’re signing up new to the Forums and don’t get a password fast, please e-mail us so we can set one).

WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: (updated) 11 am-4 pm, go check out a tool or two for that project you MUST get out of the way before winter. Find out all about the WSTL here. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

GO WATCH BRIDGE-BUILDING: All weekend long, crews building the new South Park Bridge are working with the newest big piece to arrive (as noted here last night):

(Photo by Scott Miller)
You’re welcome to go watch from shore – some of the street stubs along the Duwamish have good views; the county recommends Rose Street (map).

NATIVE PLANTS: This is the season to get some in your yard so they can get settled in time to grow big time next year. Go Natives! has a sale in West Seattle today, 10 am-4 pm. (3225 47th SW)

STAR WARS STORYTIME: 11 am today at Barnes & Noble/Westwood Village. From Melissa:

it’s the second annual Star Wars Reads Day! We’ll be celebrating this nationwide event with stories, treats, activities, and goodies galore. Costumes or your favorite Star Wars gear is not required, but is very welcome! I’ve been having a great time planning this event, and it will be a lot of fun. As the saying goes, come to the Dark Side. We have cookies! (And we really do!) May the Force be with you!

(South side of Westwood Village, off SW Barton)

GIRL SCOUTS GO SKATING: Local Girl Scouts and aspiring Girl Scouts are invited to bring family/friends to a skating party at Southgate Roller Rink in White Center, 5-7 pm. Details here. (9646 16th SW)

AFRICAN DINNER, DRUMS, MUSIC: Event tonight at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church benefits scholarships in Mulundi Village as part of Books to Bricks – details in our calendar listing. 5:30 pm. (California/Hanford)

WEST SEATTLE MEANINGFUL MOVIES: “Genetic Roulette” is tonight’s WSMM presentation at Neighborhood House’s High Point Center, 7 pm, free. (6400 Sylvan Way SW)

CHAMBER MUSIC FROM THE LIGHTER SIDE: 7:30 tonight at Olympic Hall, South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor), presented by Music Northwest – details in our calendar listing. (6000 16th SW)

FIRST SHOW AT PERSHING HALL: Somethin’ Fierce Band with special guest MER at the new event venue created inside West Seattle’s American Legion Post 160 – as explained in our Friday story. Doors at 7, show at 8. (3618 SW Alaska)

RADIOSHARK: Aggressive “garage band” rock, says Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) about tonight’s 9:30 pm performers. (6451 California SW)

DO THE TIME WARP AGAIN (AND AGAIN, AND AGAIN): First Saturday of every month is “Rocky Horror Picture Show” night at West Seattle’s historic Admiral Theater, 11:59 pm. (2343 California SW)