(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)

(Thanks to Max for the photo!)
Some cool photos with today’s morning fog – so we’re starting off the daily preview with those:

(Thanks to Russ Walker for the photo!)
And:

(Thanks to Don Brubeck for the photo!)
And finally:

(Thanks to WSB co-publisher Patrick Sand for walking up the hill to get that one!)
Now – on to the highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar!

CONNOISSEUR LUNCHEON: South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor) offers these periodically – more info in our calendar listing, including how to get a (required) reservation. Seatings start at 11 am. (6000 16th SW)

WORDS, WRITERS, & WEST SEATTLE: The new monthly author-reading series debuts today at Barnes and Noble/Westwood Village, co-presented by the Southwest Seattle Historical Society. 4-6 pm, Stephanie Guerra – series details here. (2800 SW Barton)

FAMILY FUN NIGHT: Dance! West Seattle at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse presents its popular fall event, 5-8 pm – free activities and music, bring $$$ for pizza, pop, cake walk, face painting fundraiser, full details in our calendar listing. (9131 California SW)

FIRST FRIDAY: The Rotary Club of West Seattle invites you to stop by and hang out with Rotarians at (updated) The Bridge, 5-7 pm. (35th south of Avalon)

DINNER WITH ‘ELVIS’: Tonight at the Senior Center of West Seattle (WSB sponsor), it’s an Elvis tribute show with award-winning West Seattle Elvis stylist Bret Wiggins. From the SCWS, Carol Johnston says: “An oven-baked chicken dinner (one of Elvis’s favorites) will be served at 5:30 pm and showtime around 6:45 pm. Bret has new costumes, backdrop, and different songs including his all-new Elvis Gospel Tribute. Suggested donation is $20 with advance reservations – 206-932-4044 ext. 1 or $25 at the door.” (California/Oregon)

HIGH-SCHOOL FOOTBALL: Chief Sealth International High School‘s homecoming game, 7 pm vs. Franklin at Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle) … West Seattle High School is on the road vs. Rainier Beach at SE Athletic Complex, also 7 pm (8815 Seward Park Ave. S.).

‘AN ACTRESS VS. WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE‘: 7 pm at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor): “A female actor explores Shakespearean female characters and grapples with their lack of agency in their respective plays.” Details in our calendar listing. (5612 California SW)

LIVE AT EASY STREET: Mark Pickerel and His Praying Hands are live in-store at Easy Street Records, (updated) 8 pm. (California/Alaska)

And there’s a LOT MORE on the calendar – check out the listings here!

West Seattle’s mysterious Golden Pheasant has surfaced again! Joan Miller shared the photo this morning, saying that after the bird appeared in her yard near Camp Long on Tuesday, a neighbor told her about the April sighting mentioned here on WSB. Escaped pet? We may never know. Anyway, today’s calendar items are not so mysterious … highlights include:

BASKETBALL SIGNUPS: It’s the second day of basketball signups for youth basketball at Seattle Parks and Recreation facilities. $65/child, with practices starting in late November, games starting first week in January, ages 8-17. See the West Seattle Community Centers‘ combined fall brochure for more info.

LIBRARIES CLOSED: As mentioned here yesterday, all Seattle Public Library facilities around the city are closed today for an in-service day. They will reopen tomorrow.

‘LISTENING MOTHERS’ GROUP: Eight-week class for mothers of babies up to 6 months old begins today at The Cove School – details in our calendar listing. 1-2:30 pm. (3430 California SW)

LANDMARK CONSIDERATION: The city Landmarks Board meeting at 3:30 pm today downtown includes consideration of a landmark nomination for the 61-year-old building on a future development site at 3219 California SW:

The notice is here; the nomination documentation is here. (700 5th Ave., 40th floor)

MAYOR NICKELS, WSB EDITOR ON ‘CIVIC COCKTAIL’: If you’re going to be downtown this evening and interested in a discussion of civic issues, consider being part of the audience for “Civic Cocktail” at the Palace Ballroom, doors at 5:30/event at 6 pm, with former Mayor Greg Nickels on the dignitaries’ panel and your editor on the journalist panel. CityClub co-presents “Civic Cocktail,” and requests advance registration – details on their website. (2100 5th Avenue)

DANCE WITH LAUREN PETRIE: The popular musician’s next dance is 6-8 pm tonight at the Senior Center of West Seattle – details in our calendar listing. (California/Oregon)

CITY LIGHT PROPERTIES HEARING: Got an opinion on what Seattle City Light should do with the former substation sites on this map?

Tonight’s the one and only formal public hearing in West Seattle before City Light makes recommendations that will eventually go to the City Council. More info on the sites is here; speak out between 6:30 and 8:30 pm at High Point Community Center. (6920 34th SW)

SOUTHWEST DISTRICT COUNCIL: 6:30 pm at Southwest Teen Life Center, reps from community councils and other key organizations around western West Seattle – which the city designates the Southwest District – meet, with an agenda including City Councilmember Tim Burgess talking about the city-budget process (he chairs the Budget Committee). Everyone’s welcome. (2801 SW Thistle)

WEST SEATTLE WOMEN IN CHARGE: Fall meeting tonight for this organization geared toward local women who own/run businesses – details in our calendar listing. 7 pm at Mind Unwind. (2206 California SW)

‘THE TAMING’ OPENS AT ARTSWEST: Lauren Gunderson‘s “The Taming“ opens tonight, in a co-world-premiere presentation; curtain’s at 7:30 pm. (4711 California SW)

Thanks to Forest for the reminder: All Seattle Public Library locations are closed tomorrow (Wednesday, October 2nd) for a staff in-service day. So if you need something, have to drop off an overdue item, etc., go today/tonight! All 4 local branches are open until 8 pm tonight.

(Added 10:07 am: At ‘Jocks vs. Docs,’ Golden Tate from the Seahawks, Rob Weaver from Safeway, Tracy Taylor from KING 5)
Just some of what’s scheduled today/tonight on the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

‘JOCKS VS. DOCS’: 10 am at Admiral Safeway – as announced late yesterday – sports stars, medical experts, and media personalities are joining forces for a bag-off in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. (2622 California SW)

WINTER PREVIEW: Mountain to Sound Outfitters in The Triangle is showing off its winter lines in a special evening event, 6-9 pm, details in our calendar listing. (3602 SW Alaska)

WESTWOOD-ROXHILL-ARBOR HEIGHTS COMMUNITY COUNCIL: We just confirmed WWRHAH is back to its first-Tuesday meeting schedule as of tonight, Southwest Library, 6:15 pm. ADDED: The agenda:

6:15 – 6:20: Welcome! And Introductions
6:20 – 6:25: Community News
6:25 – 6:30: Update on SDOT by Infrastructure Committee
6:30 – 6:45 Safe Routes to School Grants
6:45 – 7:15: Roxhill Days follow up
7:15 – 7:20: Transit meeting on October 14th
7:20 – 7:40: Open Discussion
7:40 – 7:45: Wrapup and Cleanup

(35th/Henderson)

WEST SEATTLE BIKE CONNECTIONS: Potluck meeting to celebrate WSBC’s first year, 6:30 pm, Beveridge Place Pub. Details on the WSBC site. (6419 California SW)

PUNK ROCK AEROBICS: New series starts 6:45 pm at Alki Bathhouse – details in our calendar listing. (2701 Alki SW)

HIGH-SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL: Big game tonight at Chief Sealth International High School, hosting hosts West Seattle High School, 7 pm varsity, following 5:45 pm JV and C games. (2801 SW Thistle)

NIGHTLIFE: Our calendar listings include trivia at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) and at The Bridge; jazz at OutWest Bar; karaoke at Skylark Café and Club; singer/songwriter night at Shadowland … click any of those links for the full details. Are we missing YOUR listing? Please be sure you e-mail us the info – thank you!

Highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

BEAT THE BURN 5K: You’ll hear a siren on Alki at 9 am -that’ll mark the start of the Beat the Burn 5K, raising money to help young burn victims. Full schedule of the morning is in our calendar listing; if you haven’t registered already, you can come to the beach (near the bathhouse/Statue of Liberty Plaza) as early as 7:30 am. Shortly after 10 am, there’s a free kids’ dash. This race does NOT close the road, by the way. (60th/Alki)

WATCH THE GAME: Seahawks are on at 10 am and your viewing options include venues that open early – such as Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), open at 9 am with a breakfast special (6451 California SW), and OutWest Bar (California/Brandon), which announced recently it’s opening by 9:30 am on game mornings, and serving brunch. Skylark Café and Club (3803 Delridge Way SW) also has the game on its big screen, and brunch on the menu. Go, Hawks!

WEST SEATTLE CYCLERY SALE: Shopping opportunity today: “West Seattle Cyclery (WSB sponsor) is offering final markdowns on 2013 model bikes! All bikes in stock are 35 to 50 percent off original prices. The sale is limited to remaining bikes on hand, so hurry in for the best selection!” (4508 California SW)

LAST DAY FOR ALKI ARTS AT THE BEACH: The original 2820 Alki SW location of Alki Arts is closing after today (as first reported here last month), so stop by to say goodbye – and buy art! Details in our calendar listing. 11 am-8 pm.

GRETCHEN’S GRAINS: West Seattle foodpreneur Gretchen Evans is demonstrating her frozen cooked Gretchen’s Grains at PCC Natural Markets-West Seattle (WSB sponsor) 11 am-2 pm today. She says they are now carried in more than 230 stores! (California/Stevens)

ROSE TASTING: Stottle Winery invites you to come try a holiday-intended rosé, noon-6 pm, details in the calendar listing. (3400 Harbor SW)

DELRIDGE CIDERPRESSING: It’s a fall tradition and it’s scheduled again today at the Delridge P-Patch – bring your apples and make cider with a hand-crank press from the West Seattle Tool Library. 1-4 pm. (5078 25th SW)

ALL-AGES OPEN MIKE: 3 pm at Skylark Café and Club: “People of all ages can sign up, get on our stage, and show us what they got! Full sound system, lights, our own sound person to dial them in, and a 16-track digital recording of their performance is available for purchase. Fun for the whole family!” (3803 Delridge Way SW)

KIM VIRANT WITH JEFF HASS: Performing live tonight at Feedback Lounge, 8:30 pm, benefiting animal-advocacy nonprofit AARF.

(PHOTO ADDED 3:42 PM: Some hardy souls braved the rain for Coffee With The Sallys)
Happy Saturday! Here’s our later-than-usual list of highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

HELP FIGHT HUNGER: Until 3 pm, donate food/money to the West Seattle Food Bank at West Seattle Thriftway (California/Fauntleroy); 10 am-2 pm, same thing for the White Center Food Bank at Roxbury Safeway or the Albertsons on 128th. It’s part of a one-day regional event, as our preview explains.

CHURCH RUMMAGE SALE: Arbor Heights Community Church invites you to come shop, until 3 pm. (42nd/102nd)

WALK FOR OPTIMISM: Advocacy for Parkinson’s Disease is the cause benefited by this first-ever local walk, set for 11 am in Lincoln Park – details in our listing.

REGISTER FOR THE MONSTER DASH: At West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor), you can sign up for next month’s West Seattle Monster Dash by paying only the discounted early-bird fee, without online service charges, during the noon-4 pm registration party. (California/Charlestown)

COFFEE WITH THE SALLYS: The ongoing coffee-chat tour by City Council President Sally Clark and City Councilmember Sally Bagshaw comes to High Point Branch Library today – drop by any time 2:30 to 4 pm to chat with them. (35th/Raymond)

OKTOBERFEST AT PROST! WEST SEATTLE: The pub sends word that they’re celebrating Oktoberfest “all day (today) … We have 6 different Oktoberfest biers on draft including Licher, Ayinger, Paulaner, Weihenstephan, Hofbrau and Georgetown Tomtoberfest! Ace Pumpkin Cider will be flowing along with several traditional German Liqueurs to go along with your Liters of bier. Enjoy a Fest-size Wurst Sampler and Fest-size Bratwurst Sandwich for this celebration only! Lots of fun Oktoberfest swag to give out and Lederhosen and Dirndls always encouraged! Main festivities start around 4:00PM into the evening. Join us!” (3407 California SW)

MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FESTIVAL: The Admiral Theater is the only place to see it in Seattle again this year! Starts at 4 pm – details in our calendar listing.

WEST SEATTLE GREEN SPACE COALITION: As first reported here last Sunday, this group is forming to advocate for more open space in West Seattle – starting with the current Seattle City Light process of deciding what to do with several former substation sights in local neighborhoods; they would like to see it delayed until neighborhoods can explore mustering resources to get the sites preserved rather than sold off for housing or some other development. You’re invited to their launch meeting at 4:30 pm, High Point Branch Library. (35th/Raymond)

RAT CITY BRASS: Our area’s premier Tijuana Brass tribute band will be at Kenyon Hall tonight, 7:30 pm – details on the calendar. (7904 35th SW)

(added) THE SLAGS: Playing Poggie Tavern tonight – free! (4717 California SW)

Please see the calendar for other events – and if you know of one that’s been postponed/canceled by the weather, please let us know so we can share that info – thanks!

(Fog on Elliott Bay in early September, by Flickr member ezook, shared via the WSB Flickr group)

BUSINESS NETWORKING MEETING: Westside Professionals invite business owners to their happy hour/animal-advocacy-benefit event at Wallflower Custom Framing (WSB sponsor), 5-8 pm. (4735 44th SW)

WEST SEATTLE CHAMBER AFTERHOURS AT VENTANA: If you’re a West Seattle Chamber of Commerce member, you’re invited to tonight’s “afterhours” event at Ventana Construction (WSB sponsor) – but you have to RSVP ASAP! info@wschamber.com – event’s at 5:30-7:30 pm. (California/Findlay)

WEST SEATTLE DEMOCRATIC WOMEN: State Sen. Maralyn Chase is their special guest at the WSDW evening meeting, West Seattle Golf Course, 6 pm. Details in our calendar listing. (35th south of Avalon)

FAUNTLEROY SAFETY/CRIME-PREVENTION MEETING: Ice cream at 6:30, safety/crime-prevention information (with Southwest Precinct police leadership) at 7 pm, The Hall at Fauntleroy. (9131 California SW)

NEW GENESEE HILL SCHOOL: Environmental information about the new Genesee Hill elementary-school project – especially of interest to those who live nearby – is the focus of a community meeting tonight at Schmitz Park Elementary at 7 pm; details of this Seattle Public Schools-presented meeting are on the Genesee-Schmitz Neighborhood Council site. (50th/Spokane)

NICOLE HARDY READING: West Seattle author Nicole Hardy reads from her newly published “Confessions of a Latter-Day Virgin” at 7 pm tonight at Twilight Gallery. (SW Alaska west of California SW).

(Steller’s Jay, photographed by John Kieltyka)
From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

FREE CHINESE CONVERSATION/CULTURE CLASS: The new series of “Chinese Corner” classes starts at 4 pm today at the Seattle Chinese Garden on the campus of South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor). Pre-register ASAP – just go here. More info in our calendar listing. (6000 16th SW, north side of campus)

SEATTLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS’ ‘GROWTH BOUNDARIES’ MEETING: Eight days after proposed boundary/school-program changes (and more) were unveiled by Seattle Public Schools, you can hear about them firsthand – and offer your comments – at a district meeting tonight, 6:30 pm, West Seattle High School Commons (3000 California SW).

HIGHLAND PARK ACTION COMMITTEE: Busy agenda, as outlined on HPAC’s website – from a new proposal for raingardens to lessen the load on sewer/drainage systems in Highland Park, to an update on Westcrest Park development, to the fate of the two Seattle City Light surplus sites in Highland Park, and more. 7 pm at Highland Park Improvement Club. (12th/Holden)

PURSE POKER: As previewed in our coverage of last week’s comedy showcase at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), it’s launching Purse Poker on Wednesday nights, 7 pm. No money – just bring a purse full of items to bet, explained on the FL home page. (6451 California SW)

‘URBAN BESTIARY’ BOOK LAUNCH: West Seattle author Lyanda Lynn Haupt‘s official launch event for “The Urban Bestiary” is tonight, 7 pm, Elliott Bay Books on Capitol Hill. (1521 10th Ave.)

CAGE THE ELEPHANT: Live, free in-store at Easy Street Records, in advance of their new album (out in less than 2 weeks). 7 pm. (California/Alaska)

TALARICO’S TRIVIA: Every Wednesday night for *years,* it’s Trivia Night at Talarico’s Pizzeria in The Junction, 8:30 pm – more in our calendar listing.

More nightlife, and daytime activities, on our calendar!

(WSB photo of bee-loved blooms at Emma Schmitz Overlook, photographed last Saturday)
What’s up? Some of the answers for today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

STORY TIMES: 10:30 am Toddler Story Time at West Seattle Branch Library (2306 42nd SW); 11:30 am Baby Story Time at Southwest Branch Library (35th/Henderson).

FOR THE LOVE OF CHEESE: 11 am-2 pm, go see the cheesemaking team at Metropolitan Market-Admiral (WSB sponsor) make mozzarella, as part of the ongoing For the Love of Cheese celebration. (41st/42nd/Admiral)

CROSSTOWN-RIVALRY SOCCER: West Seattle High School and Chief Sealth International High School‘s girls-varsity soccer teams face off at 4 pm today, Southwest Athletic Complex. (2801 SW Thistle)

‘SCHOOL YOUR PARENTS’ AT THE LIBRARY: 5:30 pm, families are welcome to come find out how much Delridge Branch Library can help with homework, studying, researching, more, at the “School Your Parents” event, explained in our calendar listing. (5423 Delridge Way SW)

WEST SEATTLE TRANSIT COALITION: Fight for the right to get where you’re going via bus. Grass-roots coalition launch meeting 6:30 pm, Neighborhood House’s High Point Center – agenda preview in our story from Monday. (6400 Sylvan Way SW)

DESC PROJECT ADVISORY COMMITTEE: As the new 66-unit “supportive housing” complex gets close to completion on Delridge Way, the advisory committee meets again, with updates on the project (noted in our preview), 6:30 pm at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

BLOCK WATCH CAPTAINS NETWORK: Learn about “Smart 911” at this month’s meeting – you don’t have to be a Block Watch captain (or even member) to attend; details on the WSBWCN website. Southwest Precinct meeting room, 6:30 pm. (Delridge/Webster)

CANCER-FIGHTING FUNDRAISER: Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor) hosts a Tuesday Tune-Up event to benefit the Brosio-Hamasaki-Stein Guild – explained in our calendar listing. (1936 Harbor SW)

Lots MORE nightlife on our calendar!

(Thanks to Dave in Admiral for sharing the rainbow – spotted just as the Seahawks game wrapped up)
From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and the WSB inbox:

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL: South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor) begins its fall semester today.

BUDGET SPEECHES: It’s budget season for local elected officials and the big events happen today – at 11 am, King County Executive Dow Constantine announces his, and at 2 pm, Mayor Mike McGinn announces his. Details to follow.

LIVE A HEART-HEALTHY LIFE: Free presentation by nationally known health/lifestyle expert Joe Piscatella at The Kenney (WSB sponsor), 3 pm. Details in our calendar listing. (7125 Fauntleroy Way SW)

THOUGHTS ON SEATTLE PUBLIC LIBRARY’S FUTURE? City Librarian Marcellus Turner comes to West Seattle Branch Library tonight for a community conversation, 5:30-6:45 pm. Details in our calendar listing. (2306 42nd SW)

DELRIDGE GROCERY: As the announcement e-mail from Delridge Grocery puts it:

Your next, in-person opportunity to become a member/owner of Delridge’s future co-op grocery store is in (tonight). Please meet us at the Delridge branch of the Public Library at 5423 Delridge Way SW on Monday, September 23rd between 6:30 and 7:30pm to sign up with your cash, check or credit card.

Volunteers! If you are interested in helping to get our information out, if you have expressed interest in the past to help, or if you just want more general information this meeting is for you. We will have volunteer packets and general information ready for you to share with your friends, coworkers, and neighbors. Our t-shirts are also available for a reduced seasonal price of $10! Come get yours!

STAR ANNA @ EASY STREET: With a new album out, the acclaimed Star Anna performs a free in-store concert tonight at 7 pm at Easy Street Records – details on the ESR website. (California/Alaska)

(Live view from the east-facing WS Bridge camera; other cameras are on the WSB Traffic page)
First full day of fall, and we have a road-work reminder:

DELRIDGE REPAVING PROJECT’S FINAL PHASE: As announced two weeks ago, today is the scheduled start of the final phase of the almost-year-long repaving project, Henderson to Roxbury. Here’s the detour map:

Also:

FERRY SCHEDULE/FARE CHANGES: The Fauntleroy run is among those affected by the state’s fall schedule/fare changes, which kicked in Sunday.

WEST SEATTLE TRANSIT COALITION TOMORROW: Another reminder that this new advocacy group has its launch meeting tomorrow (Tuesday), 6:30 pm at Neighborhood House’s High Point Center – details in our preview.

(Added 10:23 am: Rainbow over Alki, shared by Donna Riddick – thanks!)
Latest forecast still includes an alert for blustery conditions later. But in the meantime … from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

(WSB photo added 10 am: 1 Green Planet crew setting up for Recycle Roundup; info below)
RECYCLE ROUNDUP: Fauntleroy Church‘s twice-a-year Recycle Roundup is on, until 3 pm. 1 Green Planet is there to fill trucks with the recyclables you can’t just leave at the curb; see the list of what they’re accepting on the church website. (9140 California SW)

SALES! 9 am-5 pm, one more full day for the tent sale at Pacific Plumbing Supply (WSB sponsor) in Highland Park continues its annual tent sale (7115 W. Marginal Way SW) … Then 10 am-2 pm today, it’s “Sale Day” at the year-round West Seattle Farmers’ Market. (44th and Alaska)

MOUNTED PATROL OPEN HOUSE: Come meet the Seattle Police Mounted Patrol horses and humans at their first-ever open house. Their HQ is on the east side of Westcrest Park in Highland Park, and you’re welcome to visit between 1-5 pm, demonstrations at 2 & 4 (follow that link for driving/parking instructions, too). Rain or shine – it’ll be happening at their COVERED facility. (Entrance at 8600 8th SW)

CARDS FOR THE KIDS: West Seattle Junior Football‘s benefit Texas Hold-Em poker tournament at the Heartland Café/Benbow Room in The Admiral District, 3 pm – cash prizes, no-host bar. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

WEST SEATTLE COOKING CLUB: This time, the theme is Greek – cook up some Greek food and bring it to Beveridge Place Pub to share during the WSCC‘s meeting starting at 3 pm. (6419 California SW)

MUSIC AND COFFEE: Erika Lundahl performs this afternoon at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 3-5 pm. (5612 California SW)

BINGO BENEFIT: At the Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) starting at 5 pm, it’s a new round of “Booze, Balls, and Bingo,” drag bingo raising money for nonprofits, this time including animal advocates who will have adoptable dogs outside the Feedback during the event – full details in our calendar listing.

UPDATE: The following event is canceled, per Alice, because of the soggy weather.

EQUINOX SUNSET: Fall officially begins at 1:44 pm with the autumnal equinox, which means that – unless the weather is REALLY bad (which it might be – watch here for updates) – Alice Enevoldsen of Alice’s Astro Info (and monthly Skies Over West Seattle reports here), will meet you at Solstice Park east of north Lincoln Park for the sunset – as explained here – starting around 6:30 pm. (7400 Fauntleroy Way SW)

(WSB photo added: WSHS athletes’ car-wash crew)
Happy Saturday! Here are highlights from the list of what’s up today, via the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

ROAD-WORK ALERTS: Two reminders for the weekend – ramps from northbound I-5 to the West Seattle Bridge and Beacon Hill are closed until Monday morning, and pavement repair is scheduled today and tomorrow on East Marginal Way near Hanford.

SALES! 9 am-5 pm today (and again tomorrow), Pacific Plumbing Supply in Highland Park continues its annual tent sale, which it’s been advertising here on the WSB Event Calendar page to get the word out. Discounted fixtures include bathtubs, jetted tubs, kitchen sinks, toilets, more. (7115 W. Marginal Way SW) … Also, garage/yard-sale season isn’t quite over yet – there are a few listings in the Sales/Freebies section of the WSB Forums.

COMMUNITY CLEANUPS: Reminder that there are two today – Junction Plaza Park with the Junction Neighborhood Organization just started at 9 am, Walking on Logs (alongside the Fauntleroy end of the bridge) also a 9 am start – here’s our Friday reminder about both; every single participant (and all ages are welcome) makes a difference, including late arrivals!

BENEFIT CAR WASH: The West Seattle High School Girls’ Basketball and Volleyball Teams are raising money by washing cars at West Seattle Autoworks (WSB sponsor) this weekend. Today’s hours: 10 am-1 pm. They’re raising money for new uniforms. (35th and Webster)

WESTFEST, DAY 2: Holy Rosary School‘s annual fall festival continues today, 10 am-10 pm. Ride, food, entertainment info is in our preview; here’s the story from our visit last night. (42nd/Genesee)

WEST SEATTLE SOLAR TOUR: Visit the tour stops 11 am-2 pm, including, as featured here, Bob Huppe‘s home, with a solar installation in tribute to his son Ben, who designed it before his untimely death. The West Seattle map is here.

THRIFTWAY BARBECUE: 11 am-~4 pm, the final benefit barbecue of the season at West Seattle Thriftway (WSB sponsor) – go have lunch and help local nonprofits! Look for the tent outside the store. (California/Fauntleroy/Morgan)

STORYTIME: At Barnes & Noble at Westwood Village; here’s Melissa‘s update on today’s 11 am storytime:

We have an awesome Curious George storytime planned for Saturday! We’re going to read the original story introducing Curious George, and we have some fun activities planned, as well as some great stuff for kids to take home! Wearing red shirts in honor of our favorite monkey is optional, but highly encouraged!

YOUNGSTOWN CULTURAL ARTS CENTER OPEN HOUSE: Go find out what happens inside the historic schoolhouse that is now the re-activated Youngstown Cultural Arts Center – open house 1-6 pm, performances 6-9 pm, food trucks in the parking lot all day; here’s the event page on Facebook. P.S. And there’s a dance party at 9:30 pm. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

CHILD-CARE CONCERNS? Organize! Public meeting at 1:30 pm at Delridge Library – details in our calendar listing. (5423 Delridge Way SW)

SWYFS GALA: Southwest Youth and Family Services‘ gala fundraiser starts at 5:30 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy, with guest speaker former Sen. Tom Daschle; details in our calendar listing. (9131 California SW)

THE HOLLANDS @ KENYON HALL: “Merrymaking nomads” stop for the night at West Seattle’s historic Kenyon Hall, with a 7:30 pm performance – details in our calendar listing. (7904 35th SW)

SPOKEN WORD/PHOTOGRAPHY AT TWILIGHT: apertureSTOP! at 8 pm at Twilight Gallery – details in our calendar listing. (Alaska just west of California)

OKTOBERFEST: Elliott Bay Brewery Pub in The Junction celebrates it today/tonight (including live music 6-9 pm), as reported in our West Seattle Food Notes roundup earlier this week. (4720 California SW)

Even more nightlife on our calendar …

Mushroom season is back – thanks to Machel Spence for sharing that photo of a Lepiota colony at Schmitz Park! Might be a great day to take a walk in a local park if you can … and/or check out one of these events from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS SYMPOSIUM: Under way now until noon, first-ever event to help out local business organizations around the city, organized by City Council President Sally Clark; not happening in West Seattle, but local participants/sponsors include the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce and West Seattle Junction Association, and your editor here is a speaker on the media panel at 10:50 am. (City Hall, Bertha Knight Landes Room)

PACIFIC PLUMBING SUPPLY SALE: Until 4 pm today, then all weekend, Pacific Plumbing Supply in Highland Park has its annual tent sale, which it’s been advertising here on WSB to get the word out. Big discounts; bathtubs, jetted tubs, kitchen sinks, toilets, more. (7115 W. Marginal Way SW)

PARKing DAY: Worldwide, this is a day for temporary mini-parks to be set up, mostly in parking spaces, to show alternate uses of public areas. As noted here on Thursday, four parks are planned here in West Seattle, 9 am-3 pm, from The Admiral District to Westwood Village – see the map and info here.

UNITED WAY DAY OF CARING: Volunteers’ efforts include work in the West Duwamish Greenbelt, 10 am-2 pm.

WINE AND CHEESE TASTING: Metropolitan Market (WSB sponsor) in Admiral invites you to stop by 4-7 pm for a big event that’s part of the For the Love of Cheese: “We will be featuring artisan cheeses such as Mt. Townsend Seastack and Cirrus, Mifroma Gruyere, Le Chatelain Brie and Camembert, and Somerdale Shropshire, paired with our wine offerings.” (41st/42nd/Admiral)

LAST ONE IN THE POOL IS A … DOG (FIRST ONE, TOO): Day 4 of the “dogs in the pool, without people” post-season fundraiser at Arbor Heights Swim and Tennis Club, 5-7 pm. Get more info in our original preview. (11003 31st SW)

WESTFEST BEGINS: Holy Rosary School‘s annual fall festival starts tonight, 6-10 pm (and continues tomorrow). Ride and entertainment info is in our preview. (42nd/Genesee)

MOVIE NIGHT AT HPIC: Tonight’s Highland Park Improvement Club movie hint: A 1964 classic, rated G, featuring a “supernanny” who flies in … Doors open at 6:30, movie’s at 7. It’s free, but bring some $ for concessions. (12th/Holden)

FOOD BANK BENEFIT AT EASY STREET: Branden Daniel and The Chics, 7 pm in-store, bring a nonperishable food item for the West Seattle Food Bank, as previewed here yesterday. (California/Alaska)

HIGH-SCHOOL SPORTS: Chief Sealth International High School has varsity football at home at 7, hosting Rainier Beach across the street at SW Athletic Complex … For West Seattle High School, the varsity football team is playing Franklin at Memorial Stadium downtown, 7:45 pm.

(Lincoln Park photo by WSB Flickr group member Biankat)
From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (and the inbox), eight highlights/notes for today/tonight:

SPYDER MOWER IN ACTION: Seattle Parks shares the heads-up that you will see a piece of heavy equipment known as a Spyder mower in action clearing overgrowth/invasives today at West Seattle Golf Course and Rotary Viewpoint Park (best known for its totem pole, at 35th/Alaska).

SALUTE TO SOUTH: With the school year starting next Monday at South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor), today is the annual celebratory community reception, and you’re invited. SSCC president Gary Oertli and faculty will be there, too. Northwest Wine Academy on campus, light refreshments including some of NWA’s student-produced wine, 3:30-5:30 pm. (6000 16th SW)

HAVE DESSERT AT CAMP LONG: As previewed here Wednesday, tonight’s the dessert auction/live-music benefit at Camp Long Environmental Learning Center, 7-9 pm – bring the kids for an optional nature program. (5200 35th SW)

DOGPADDLE: Day 3 of the “dogs in the pool, without people” post-season fundraiser at Arbor Heights Swim and Tennis Club, 5-7 pm, details in our original preview. (11003 31st SW)

(added) LAFAYETTE PTA: First meeting of the year at Lafayette Elementary, and Curriculum Night too – 6:30-8 pm. (California/Lander)

WEST SEATTLE HIGH SCHOOL PTSA: As previewed here on Wednesday, the WSHS PTSA’s first meeting of the year is tonight, 7 pm, in the school library. All welcome to take a look at the year ahead! (3000 California SW)

ALKI COMMUNITY COUNCIL: Tonight’s 7 pm monthly meeting in the parlor at Alki UCC will include a Seattle Police briefing on the summer season that’s wrapping up – more agenda notes are on the ACC website. (6115 SW Hinds)

FULL MOON: Tonight’s the official full moon for this month, as noted in the most-recent edition of our monthly special report “Skies Over West Seattle.” Moonrise is just about concurrent with sunset, right after 7 pm – you can find the exact times of moonrise, moonset, sunrise, and sunset on the WSB Weather page, any time.

(Pileated woodpecker)
We’ve dubbed this Woodpecker Wednesday, with three photos from Mark Wangerin (thank you!) woven through our daily preview. Meantime, we have a partly sunny day forecast ahead, and from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, these events of note happening today/tonight:

ALL-DAY ARTHRITIS BENEFIT: Massage Envy West Seattle (WSB sponsor) is donating $10 from every one-hour massage today to the Arthritis Foundation – details in our calendar listing. (north side of Westwood Village)

(Northern Flicker)
DOGPADDLE: Today’s the second day of the “dogs in the pool, no people” post-season fundraiser at Arbor Heights Swim and Tennis Club, 5-7 pm, details in our original preview. (11003 31st SW)

WEST SEATTLEITES PERFORM AT FRINGE FESTIVAL: Not in West Seattle, but involving West Seattleites – Tas de Pierres Theatre debuts tonight with “Grave Love“ at the NW Film Forum, two one-acts, “Flora/Dora” and “The Juliet Project,” featuring movement, puppetry, and text, created & directed by Jennifer Crooks, stage-managed by Maikel Van der Verren, both West Seattleites. Showtime is 6 pm. If you miss it tonight, other dates are 9 pm tomorrow, 3:30 pm Saturday, 1 pm Sunday. (1515 12th Avenue)

(Downy woodpecker)
DELRIDGE NEIGHBORHOODS DISTRICT COUNCIL: Tonight’s 7 pm monthly meeting of reps from community councils and other key organizations around eastern West Seattle will include a guest appearance by City Councilmember Tim Burgess, looking ahead to the council’s annual budget process, as well as discussions of K-5 STEM at Boren (now officially proposed to become K-8, as reported here Tuesday) and the Delridge Grocery co-op as it gets ready to open in the new Delridge Supportive Housing building next year. Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, public always welcome. (4407 Delridge Way SW)

‘UNPLUGGED!’: The Seattle Classic Guitar Society‘s open-microphone event is 7-9 pm tonight at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor) – details in our calendar listing. (5612 California SW)

FEEDBACK FUNNYNESS: A rare chance to enjoy live comedy in West Seattle – tonight’s the night for the “Fantasy Island” comedy slate headlined by West Seattleite Mona Concepcion, also featuring West Seattleite Cait Parks, and other area comics. It all starts at 8 pm at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) – free! (6451 California SW)

Lots more for today/tonight – just check our calendar.

(Live view from the east-facing WS Bridge camera; other cameras are on the WSB Traffic page)
Good morning! So far, nothing unusual reported as we head to the heart of the commute.

7:50 AM: The low bridge was closed to vehicle traffic to let a boat through, but has just reopened, per SDOT‘s Twitter feed.

EVENING NOTE: Metro has gone public with the info about its September 28th “service change,” including three West Seattle routes’ changes – here’s our story.