Thanks to Don Brubeck for this morning’s featured photo of the “low bridge” in action, shared via the WSB Flickr group pool (and Flickr is where you can see a larger version). A waterway photo seems appropriate given the first preview of the day:

THIS MORNING’S ‘KING TIDE’: Another 12.8-foot high tide today, this one due at 7:16 am. (Here’s our overview from Sunday night, updated with a photo from Monday morning’s “king tide.”)

DAYTIME ROAD WORK: Road repair work is scheduled to continue in the 6500 block of 48th SW – details here.

NIGHTTIME BRIDGE CLOSURE: Another Fauntleroy Expressway closure is scheduled, 9 pm-5 am tonight (that’s the west end of the West Seattle Bridge, which means some onramp/offramp closures, particularly westbound, where you’ll need to exit at Harbor Island or Delridge).

FREE E-READER CLINIC: 1-3 pm today, Southwest Branch of the Seattle Public Library (35th/Henderson), learn more about your new e-reader and how to find a great e-book.

WEST SEATTLE SEE DOGS: Come find out about raising guide puppies, and meet a guide dog (with its human companion)! 3 pm, The Kenney (WSB sponsor), 7125 Fauntleroy Way SW. (More info via this Facebook event page.)

NIGHTLIFE: Skylark Café and Club open-mike night, poetry and comedy encouraged as well as acoustic music, starts 7 pm … rock music/pop culture trivia at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 8 pmStarlite singer/songwriter showcase at Shadowland, sign-ups at 9 pm …

LOOKING AHEAD TO NEW YEAR’S EVE/DAY: From special dinners on NYE to volksmarching and Polar-Bear-Plunging on The Big Day, we have listings on the WSB Holidays page – and it’s not too late for more (editor@westseattleblog.com).

(Christmas Day view of the downtown skyline from West Seattle, by Emily Austin)
Since Christmas happened on a Sunday this year, today’s the official holiday, which means some closures and changes. Here’s what’s different as a result:

TRANSPORTATION: Metro is on a Sunday schedule today (and a “reduced weekday schedule” the next 4 weekdays); no West Seattle or Vashon Water Taxi service; Sound Transit is on a Sunday schedule (but no Sounder trains).

PARKING: We don’t have city pay stations/meters in West Seattle, but if you’re going downtown or elsewhere with Seattle street parking that has them, it’s a “parking holiday” – no charge today.

POST OFFICE/MAIL DELIVERY: Today is a postal holiday.

BANKS: Closed.

GOVERNMENT OFFICES/FACILITIES: Most are closed, with this exception …

SEATTLE LIBRARIES ARE OPEN: Seattle Public Library branches are scheduled to be open regular Monday hours today.

LIQUOR STORES: Junction store (42nd/Alaska) is open, according to this list.

SOLID-WASTE PICKUP: The City of Seattle is on a regular schedule this week, and for the next two weeks, you can include Christmas trees (rules explained here).

Three days till Christmas, third night of Hanukkah, and a foggy, frosty morning. Looking ahead to the rest of the day/night:

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET, NIGHTTIME EDITION, DIFFERENT LOCATION: 5-8 pm at Junction Plaza Park (42nd/Alaska), you’ll find a special version of the West Seattle Farmers’ Market, wrapping up the WS Junction Association’s Hometown Holidays (co-sponsored by WSB). This is the last Farmers’ Market until Sunday, January 8th, since the regular market will NOT be open on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day (both Sundays this year)

SHOP LATE IN THE JUNCTION: And while you’re in The Junction, check out the shops that’ll be open late tonight for one last pre-Christmas edition of “Shop Late Thursday.” (We’ll have a roundup in a few hours with some of the special deals/events you’ll find at participating stores.)

KIDS’ HANUKKAH PARTY: High Point Community Center, 6920 34th SW, 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm. From the announcement: “Hey Kids! Decorate a delicious doughnut, Bedazzle a beautiful menorah, Light up the night of the homeless by making a sandwich to donate. Meet other Jewish Kids and enjoy a Hanukkah dinner of Latkes and Hanukkah Dinner! Brought to you by the Seattle Kollel’s West Seattle Torah Learning Center and Jewish Y-FI (Young Family Initiative)” Adults $7.00 / Children $5.00. RSVP to Giti Fredman 206-852-6418.

‘HONORING THE DARKNESS, CELEBRATING THE LIGHT’: Solstice/Hanukkah Fire Ritual & Gong Bath at Hummingbird Studio, West Seattle (address provided upon registration), 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM. Bring a candle and join with like-minded souls to mark this terrifyingly wonderful dark night. The ritual portion will be held outdoors rain or shine so come prepared. Following the fire ritual (with a special surprise), we will move indoors for a special gong meditation. Call to see if there’s room. $28 pre-payment required. A portion of the proceeds go to support the Bali Street Dog Fund. Contact Sha’ari at 206.309.4667 or innerlistening.com.

ONSTAGE AT ARTSWEST: Final week – ArtsWest presents the Seattle premiere of “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald and John K. Alvarez. 7:30 pm, ticket info here.

MORE HOLIDAY EVENTS/INFO, INCLUDING THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS MAP … on the WSB West Seattle Holidays page.

SWIM AT SOUTHWEST POOL: Found this one on the SW Pool Facebook page – an added public swim this afternoon, 2:35-4 pm! The pool is at 2801 SW Thistle.

SCHEDULED ROAD WORK/BRIDGE CLOSURE: The 48th SW project is scheduled to continue today, and there is one more closure of the westbound Spokane Street Viaduct (the West Seattle Bridge between I-5 and 99 – no access from 5 or Beacon Hill, but there IS access from 99) overnight tonight.

In holiday mode yet? Much of what’s on the list today is from the WSB West Seattle Holidays page – well, and then there are the road and bridge alerts (our photo above shows the still-under-construction 1st Avenue South ramp to the WS Bridge):

ROAD WORK ON 35TH SW: Repaving work is scheduled to wrap up today on 35th SW between Myrtle and Othello – details here.

ROAD WORK ON 48TH SW: Road repair work is scheduled to start in the 6500 block of 48th SW – details here.

WESTBOUND SPOKANE STREET VIADUCT CLOSED OVERNIGHT: 9 pm-5 am, which means no entrance to the West Seattle Bridge from I-5 or Beacon Hill, and during that same time frame, the 1st S./Spokane surface intersection will be closed. This is part of the Spokane Street Viaduct Widening Project.

FAUNTLEROY EXPRESSWAY: A third night of 9 pm-5 am closure of the west end of the bridge is also on the schedule (though we are checking with SDOT to be sure these two bridge closures really are happening the same night).

THREE CHANCES TO SEE SANTA: He’s scheduled to be at JF Henry Kitchenware, Tableware, and Gifts (4445 California SW; WSB sponsor) in The Junction, 11 am-2 pm; West Seattle Thriftway, 3-7 pm; Westwood Village till 8 pm.

HIGH TIDES: They’re really high – the so-called “king tides” – for much of the rest of the month. While the peak here will be the two days after Christmas, today’s is 12.2 feet at 12:46 pm. Here’s the chart for the month.

GRAND OPENING: At 35th/Henderson, new salon CoCo & Co. will be having a Grand Opening and Holiday Party. They invite you to visit between 4 PM to 8 PM to “meet the staff, eat some snacks, enjoy the music and get the grand tour. We will be providing cupcakes from Stuffed Cakes, appetizers from Von’s Roast House, coffee from Bird on a Wire Espresso and music by Sphinx Akashaa Duncan.”

SOLSTICE SUNSET VIEWING: Winter solstice arrives at 9:30 pm our time – and tonight brings a sunset-viewing event at Solstice Park (7400 Fauntleroy Way SW) with Alice Enevoldsen of Alice’s Astro Info, be there by 4:05 pm (if not sooner).

HANUKKAH CONTINUES: Second night of Hanukkah – local events tomorrow night and Friday night, as listed on the WSB West Seattle Holidays page.

NO DELRIDGE NEIGHBORHOODS DISTRICT COUNCIL MEETING TONIGHT, BUT … DNDC leadership announced a potluck/community mixer at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, 7-9 pm. Bring something to share.

INFO NIGHT FOR ‘GET FIT WEST SEATTLE‘: From West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor):

Ever wanted to run or walk a 5K? A 10K? A half marathon? Ever wondered how you would get in shape for one of these and didn’t know where to start? Maybe you have never run before or just want to get in better shape? Well, then this is the program for you! A fully supported, free training program that takes you from never running or from low mileage running to running/walking a half marathon in 23 weeks. This program will allow you to miss some weeks and still be on track to run/walk the Rock and Roll Seattle Half Marathon in June of 2012. The training starts very slow and builds gradually, ensuring you don’t get discouraged with your progress and trying to keep injuries down to a minimum. There will be races added along the way to keep it interesting, including a 5K (or 2, or 3), a 10K, a 15K, and ending with the Rock and Roll Half Marathon, June 23rd. (All race entry fees will be paid for by the participant). It will also introduce you to others from the area, as there will be weekly group runs. There will also be information nights were you will learn about nutrition, injury prevention, stretching, cross training ideas, proper footwear and apparel, and others we will add along the way. So come out, enjoy yourself, get healthy and meet your neighbors! 48 Half Marathon finishers in 2011, let’s double that in 2012!

7 pm tonight at WS Runner (California/Charlestown) – same time 12/28 and 1/4, if you can’t make it tonight.

ONSTAGE AT ARTSWEST: Final week – ArtsWest presents the Seattle premiere of “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald and John K. Alvarez. 7:30 pm, ticket info here.

Among the road work continuing today/tonight, the repaving of a block of 35th SW, where we photographed that crew by former Fire Station 37 on Monday. That’s part of what’s on the WSB West Seattle Events calendar and Holidays page for today/tonight:

FIRST NIGHT OF HANUKKAH: Hanukkah, the eight-night Festival of Lights, begins tonight. No West Seattle events on the calendar tonight, but there’s one on Thursday and one Friday – see the Holidays page.

FREE CHRISTMAS MOVIE AT THE ADMIRAL: Tonight at the Admiral Theater, “A Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie,” 7 pm, presented by the businesses of the Admiral District. Bring donations for the Seattle Humane Society/Animal Shelter, updated details here. Santa’ll be there too.

SPEAKING OF SANTA: You’ll find him at West Seattle Thriftway 3-7 pm today (California/Fauntleroy) and at Westwood Village (in the breezeway between Bed Bath Beyond and Jamba Juice) 10 am-8 pm.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS RUN: As previewed here last night, the folks at West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor) are inviting you to join a 3.5-mile “slow” run to see some of the area’s lights tonight, starting at the store (California/Charlestown – meet at 6 pm) and ending at the Helmstetler Family Christmas Spectacular a few blocks east.

CHRISTMAS TREES: Updates to the list on the Holidays page – Stop n Shop at the Senior Center of West Seattle (California/Oregon) – which just sent the above photo – now has trees for $10. Also, as noted yesterday, West Seattle Nursery has cut prices by 33 percent and West Seattle Produce by 25 percent.

35TH SW REPAVING: It’s scheduled to continue during the day today between Othello and Myrtle. Full details here.

FAUNTLEROY EXPRESSWAY CLOSURE: The west end of the West Seattle Bridge is scheduled for more earthquake-safety work tonight, which means it’s closed 9 pm-5 am. Eastbound, you won’t be able to get on at 35th; westbound, you will have to exit at Delridge. Project details and detour map are here.

SOUTHWEST PRECINCT ‘TWEETALONG’: Seattle Police have done this in other precincts, and today is the SW Precinct’s turn – they’ll be chronicling an officer’s entire shift on Twitter. Details here; to see the tweets, start checking the SPD Twitter feed after 11 am. (You don’t have to be a Twitter user to follow that link.)

(Photo taken last Tuesday, shared via the WSB Flickr group pool by Nicole)
The week ahead includes (in order) Hanukkah, Winter Solstice, and Christmas. But first, here’s what’s on the docket for today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar and West Seattle Holidays page:

FAUNTLEROY EXPRESSWAY CLOSURE TONIGHT: Rescheduled from last week, tonight’s the first 9 pm-5 am closure for the work to lift the bridge deck (slightly) to add quake-resistant features. This means the West Seattle Bridge will be closed west of Delridge – see the city website for detour information if you’ll be driving that section during those hours.

MORE REPAVING: Three scheduled days of repaving start 9 am-5 pm today on 35th SW between Myrtle and Othello – details here.

NO SCHOOL: First day of winter break for Seattle Public Schools (and most others).

TRIANGLE REZONING VOTE: Seattle City Council final vote on Triangle rezoning, 2 pm meeting at City Hall downtown (preceded by open public comment), more details here.

STIR IT UP: West Seattle Cooking Club, 2:30 pm, Beveridge Place Pub. This week’s theme is “Soul Food.” More info at westseattlecookingclub.org

SEE SANTA CLAUS: At West Seattle Thriftway 3:30-7:30 pm, as well as Westwood Village, 10 am-8 pm

‘EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY …’: Final week – ArtsWest presents the Seattle premiere of “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald and John K. Alvarez. 7:30 pm tonight through Friday, 5 pm on Christmas Eve; ticket info here.

(Mule-drawn carriage in The Junction, photographed last Sunday)
Rain, shine, or fog, it’s one week till Christmas and the final West Seattle Junction Hometown Holidays Sunday, among other highlights from the calendars (year-round events list here, winter-holidays list here):

RECYCLE THOSE OLD CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: Got lights that you replaced (perhaps with energy-thrifty LEDs) or couldn’t use this year outdoors or on the tree? Sustainable West Seattle is accepting old Christmas lights for recycling at its West Seattle Farmers’ Market booth today, 10 am-2 pm, while demonstrating the power-use difference between LEDs and old-fashioned lights.

FRESH FOOD: And of course the West Seattle Farmers’ Market offers its usual fresh vegetables, fruit, meat, cheese, flowers, nuts, and a lot more, 10 am – 2 pm, The Junction (44th/Alaska).

MULE-DRAWN CARRIAGE RIDES: While you’re in The Junction for the Farmers’ Market, it’s one more chance for Mule Carriage Rides 11 am-3 pm, free. Take a traditional carriage ride down California SW pulled by Belgian Draft Mules, departing on California in front of KeyBank at Hometown Holidays Headquarters.

SANTA PHOTOS: Where’s Santa today? In the Junction, you’ll find Hometown Holidays Santa at City Mouse Studio and Store (4218 SW Alaska) for a third and final Sunday – but today, it’s Do-It-Yourself photos, with no official photographer, so bring your own camera. $15 requested donation goes to local charities. As for Santa’s other stops in West Seattle today, the list and links are at the top of the West Seattle Holiday Events/Info page.

WRAP STARS: “Wrap It Up” gift wrapping with Furry Faces Foundation and AARF. It’s up to you how much you would like to donate for the gift wrapping, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to helping animals. Today is the second of four “Wrap It Up” sessions – 1 – 7 pm at the Beveridge Place Pub, 6413 California Ave SW (during the Specialty Bottle Sale and for a couple hours after). … (added) Just heard this morning about Roxhill Elementary wrapping fundraiser at Barnes & Noble in Westwood Village till 9 pm.

SEASON FINALE AT KITTY HARBOR: After this afternoon’s round of cat adoptions, Kitty Harbor closes for the year, and is hoping everybody will find their forever home. 2-6 pm, on Harbor Avenue just north of the West Seattle Bridge.

HANUKKAH CONCERT: Performed by the Seattle Jewish Chorale @ 3:00 pm. Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 7141 California Ave SW, co-sponsored by WSUU and Kol HaNeshamah. “Light the Candles: A Hanukkah Concert for Everyone” is an interactive, family-friendly celebration featuring both familiar and unusual holiday songs in Hebrew, English, Yiddish and Ladino. For Jews and non-Jews alike, learn what Hanukkah is all about! Reception to follow, with Hanukkah goodies for sale.Tickets are $10/adults, $5/children (under 12), $8/students & seniors/un(der)employed pay as able.

FINAL PERFORMANCE FOR ‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE, A LIVE RADIO SHOW’: 3 pm performance of Twelfth Night Productions‘ “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Show,” concluding its run at Kenyon Hall, 7904 35th SW.

AUTHORS AT SKYLARK: West Seattle author Dave O’Leary will be reading from his debut novel, “Horse Bite,” at Skylark Café and Club, along with three other local authors/poets will also be reading from their works – Cherry Tigris, Pam Summa, and Roberto Carlos Ascalon. 3-5 pm, 3803 Delridge Way SW

‘EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY’: Also a matinee today for ArtsWest in The Junction presents “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!).” 3 pm; ticket info here.

GOT YOUR TREE YET? IF NOT, HURRY! At least one tree lot is already closed for the season (Son-In-Law at California/Charlestown) and today is the last day listed for the Holy Rosary Tree Lot (41st/Dakota), which donates part of its proceeds to local charities; it cut prices in half earlier this week.

DR titled that photo “USS Seattle” – it does resemble the skyline as a ship, sailing on a sea of fog. But hey, it’s not raining or snowing, a good thing for a big holiday shopping (etc.) day. Here are some of the highlights (reminder that these listings all come from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar and, this time of year, the Holiday Events/Info list, and are usually on those lists days if not weeks ahead of time, for those who like to plan way ahead):

SANTA APPEARANCES: Lots of them today and tonight – busy guy! Check out the Santa section on the Holidays page – we’ve moved it up to the top of the page so you can find it fast.

HAPPY 5TH ANNIVERSARY, BAKERY NOUVEAU: Just posted on their official “blog” – today marks their 5th anniversary, and they’re offering some discounts. Read about it here.

GIVEAWAY AT WEST SEATTLE PRODUCE: Seattle Bagel Bakery is giving away free bagels till noon. Details in the WSB Forums.

ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP: Support group for Alzheimer’s patient caregivers, and others dealing with people facing memory loss, meets monthly in West Seattle – 10 am; details here.

‘FABULOUS FAMILY FUN’ WITH THE NOISE GUY: Fabulous Family Fun Series – Entertaining shows for all ages on the 3rd Saturday of each month at 10:30 am at High Point Community Center (6920 34th Ave SW)! Each event is $3 per person; $15 max for families. Today – The Noise Guy (for ages 1 and older). What bellows like a reindeer, jingles like a sleigh bell and flushes like a toilet? It’s the Noise Guy!

CAROLERS IN THE JUNCTION: We3Carolers is bringing holiday music in support of the Food Bank to the corner of Alaska and California SW on the next 2 Saturdays. Members of the South Seattle Community College Choir will also sing with us. This year (as in years past) 100% of the caroling proceeds will go to both the West Seattle and White Center Food Banks. Caroling will be on the Southwest corner, noon-3 pm today. All are welcome to join in the singing!

HOLIDAY SHOPPING DISCOUNTS: In The Junction, Admiral, and elsewhere! Check out this special WSB page with holiday-season coupons.

HOLIDAY PARTY FOR KIDS: At Delridge Community Center, noon-2 pm (from fall brochure).

WINE, CHEESE, CHAMPAGNE TASTINGS: Wine and cheese tasting at Admiral Safeway, noon-4 pm. La Crema Sonoma Pinot Noir, La Crema Sonoma Chardonnay, Kendall Jackson VR Summation Red, paired with the following cheeses: Black Diamond – 2 year aged; Castello Blue Cheese; Laura Chanel Goat Cheese; as well as a 3 Pigs pate. … West Seattle Cellars‘ special 1-5 pm tasting is the annual holiday grower Champagne tasting … Bin 41 features “holiday Italian arrivals with Vito,” 1-3 pm.

TRY THE TANGO: Argentine Tango Classes in West Seattle at Allstar Fitness, 2629 SW Andover. Saturdays from 1-3 PM, $7. Series classes available starting in January, with registration currently open; more info here. Contact Layton Miller: info@gttango.com

NEED GIFT WRAP HELP? “Wrap It Up” gift wrapping with Furry Faces Foundation and AARF. First of four events to benefit animal-advocacy work: 2-7 pm at Rocksport (4209 SW Alaska) in The Junction.

‘SANTA’S FIRST MAGICAL RIDE’: Paul and Libby Carr have written “Santa’s First Magical Ride – A Christmas Tale,” and will be making an appearance at Alki Tully’s store (dressed as Mr. and Mrs. Claus), 3-6pm.

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION IN SOUTH PARK: Posada Navideña Christmas celebration on 14th South in South Park, 4 pm-10 pm, live music and lots more, see the details here.

CRAFTS/ARTS SALE @ SKYLARK: Skylark Café and Club hosting an art/craft fair/bazaar, 4-7 pm, with eleven artists/crafters participating – including photographer Machel Spence (who shared the photo above) – more info here (3803 Delridge Way SW).

MORE ARTS AND CRAFTS, PLUS LIVE MUSIC: Arts/crafts and music at Café Rozella, 6-9 pm (details here)

(Photo courtesy Twelfth Night Productions)
‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE, A LIVE RADIO SHOW’: 7:30 pm performance of Twelfth Night Productions‘ “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Show,” at Kenyon Hall. Based on the classic 1946 Frank Capra film, playwright Joe Landry’s take on “It’s a Wonderful Life” comes to life as a live 1940s radio broadcast at historic Kenyon Hall, 7904 35th SW. Tickets available online at Brown Paper Tickets, and at Kenyon Hall, $15/adults, $12 students & seniors.

(Rehearsal photo courtesy Musica Sacra Chamber Chorale)
MUSICA SACRA AT HOLY ROSARY: Musica Sacra Chamber Chorale presents its inaugural Christmas Concert at Holy Rosary (42nd/Genesee), 7:30 pm. Bring donations for West Seattle Food Bank and West Seattle Helpline. Full details in our previously published preview.

‘EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY’: ArtsWest presents “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!).” 7:30 pm; ticket info here.

MORE HALF-PRICE TREES: In addition to the Holy Rosary School lot (41st/Dakota), which cut tree prices in half starting yesterday (as reported here), the new Son-In-Law Tree Farm lot (California/Charlestown) has just halved its prices too, they called to say. (Our complete list of local Christmas tree sellers is on the WSB West Seattle Holidays page.)

TONIGHT’S HIGHLIGHTS: Busy morning, so we never got to publish our customary daily preview. Here are a few quick notes, though, for tonight: It’s the second-to-last Shop Late Thursday in The Junction before Christmas, with participating shops open till 9 pm … The first of several “Blue Christmas/Holidays”-type services in our area is 7 pm tonight at Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation … Chief Sealth International High School and Denny International Middle School jazz bands are in concert, 7 pm, CSIHS auditorium … The Omilero fundraiser at OutWest Bar is tonight at 6 (as previewed here earlier this week) … Live music tonight at Avalon, with Pourquoi Pas, 6:30-9 pm (drink specials too).

TAKE A HIKE FRIDAY AFTERNOON! School’s out early, the forecast says it’ll be partly sunny … tomorrow might be a great day for a guided eco-hike with the Nature Consortium. 1 pm in the West Duwamish Greenbelt, meet at 14th/Holly. Free! RSVP to nancy@naturec.org.

(From left, Brian Lange, Justin Huertas, Nick Edwards; photo courtesy ArtsWest)
“Every Christmas Story Ever Told” continues at ArtsWest in The Junction, 7:30 pm tonight. From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar and Holiday Events/Info page, here’s what else is happening:

PARTIAL BRIDGE CLOSURE SCHEDULED TONIGHT: The westbound Spokane Street Viaduct – the bridge between I-5 and Highway 99 – is scheduled to be closed overnight each night, starting tonight, through next Friday. That means no West Seattle Bridge access from I-5 or Beacon Hill, though the 99 ramps should be open. Here’s the official alert from SDOT.

CALIFORNIA SW WORK CONTINUES: By day’s end yesterday, the crews resurfacing California SW between Findlay and Graham had scraped the old pavement off the two outer lanes. Their work is scheduled to continue 9 am-5 pm today; lanes remain open but we’d advise avoiding that stretch if you can.

BOOK SIGNING: “At the Kitchen Table: The Craft of Cooking at Home”: You can find author Greg Atkinson signing copies: 5-7 pm at Metropolitan Market (WSB sponsor; 42nd/Admiral).

WINE TASTING: Bin 41 wine tasting, 6-7:30 pm: Walla Walla Winery: Reynvaan Cellars with Mike Reyvaan.

34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS’ PARTY: Instead of a business meeting, it’s the 34th District Democrats’ holiday party tonight at The Hall at Fauntleroy, 6 pm – details here

JOIN THE GARDEN TOUR! West Seattle Garden Tour Committee Meeting and Potluck, 6:30 pm. The West Seattle Garden Tour Committee is actively seeking new volunteers to join our group. If you are interested in learning more about the WSGT and becoming a volunteer, please contact us at westseattlegt@gmail.com or visit our website westseattlegardentour.com. to learn more. An agenda with meeting location and driving directions will be provided to anyone interested in attending.

HOLIDAY SHOW AT ARTSWEST: ArtsWest presents the Seattle premiere of “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald and John K. Alvarez. 7:30 pm plus Sunday 3 pm matinees; ticket info here.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS? CHRISTMAS TREES? One more reminder, check the WSB West Seattle Holidays page. And keep sending your events if they’re not already on the page (including Hanukkah/Christmas services, business hours for Christmas/New Year’s, etc.) – editor@westseattleblog.com – thanks!

(Photo by Steve Mohundro, from the WSB Flickr group pool)

From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar and Holiday Events/Info page (where you’ll find the West Seattle Christmas Lights map, lists of who sells Christmas trees, upcoming events, and more):

CALIFORNIA SW RESURFACING CONTINUES: Day two of work between SW Findlay and SW Graham on California SW, scheduled for 9 am-5 pm. One lane of traffic available in both directions but no parking on California in those blocks. Here’s our Monday update.

FAUNTLEROY EXPRESSWAY CLOSURE CANCELED FOR TONIGHT: As reported here last night. Next closures likely next week.

AT THE LIBRARIES TODAY: Toddler Story Time at West Seattle Branch, 10:30 am; Baby Story Time at Southwest Branch, 11:30 am; Somali Story Time at the High Point Branch, 1:30 am; Family Story Time at Delridge Branch, 7 pm; see the Seattle Public Library Calendar of Events page for links and details

FEEST VOLUNTEERS IN SUNRISE HEIGHTS: As reported here on Monday, youth volunteers with FEEST will be meeting at John’s Corner Deli in Sunrise Heights (35th/Webster) at 3:30 pm to canvass the neighborhood with info and coupons about the new “Healthy Foods Here” produce on sale at the store.

FUNDRAISER AT OLA SASON: For a donation of $20 that goes to Transitional Resources, which provides housing and other services for people living with mental illness, Ola Salon offers blowouts and brow waxes tonight, 5-8 pm, plus a raffle and other holiday fun. Here’s our original report.

LOWMAN BEACH (MURRAY) PUMP-STATION DESIGN ADVISORY GROUP: Meets tonight, 6:30 pm, The Hall at Fauntleroy (9131 California SW). (See the meeting materials here.)

ADMIRAL NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION: Metro’s proposed service cuts – including a big change for North Admiral – are on the agenda at 7 tonight, Admiral Church (California/Hill). Holiday treats too, all welcome.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS? CHRISTMAS TREES? One more reminder, check the WSB West Seattle Holidays page. And keep sending your events if they’re not already on the page (including Hanukkah/Christmas services, business hours for Christmas/New Year’s, etc.) – editor@westseattleblog.com – thanks!

(Photo by Annika Bowden – Christmas Ship & fleet off Seacrest on Saturday)
The Christmas Ship is back for an encore tonight – but before and after that, we have major road-work alerts, planned protests that could affect the “low bridge” and vicinity, and a big football game of note to commuters:

CALIFORNIA SW RESURFACING: As announced by SDOT last week, three blocks of California SW are scheduled for resurfacing today through Thursday. Businesses in the area are reminding their customers that means no parking out front – for example, C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor) will offer “Stop and Go” parking in the alley behind the shop (between Findlay and Juneau).

PROTESTS PLANNED: Possible afternoon protests near the east end of the “low” bridge (details here) as part of the Occupy movement’s “West Coast Port Shutdown” day. Their schedule, as detailed in our link, starts with a 1 pm march from Westlake Center downtown, and includes 3 and 6 pm rallies at the Spokane Street Fishing Bridge.

FAUNTLEROY EXPRESSWAY OVERNIGHT CLOSURE TONIGHT: Though you probably don’t call it that, Fauntleroy Expressway is the official name of the southwest end of the West Seattle Bridge, and the quake-safety work enters a new phase requiring some overnight/weekend closures. The first one is tonight, as explained here (with a map), 10:30 pm-5 am.

SEAHAWKS GAME TONIGHT: They’re facing St. Louis in the Monday Night Football game, 5:30 pm (more from our partners at the Times), which of course means traffic challenges in the stadium zone.

We will be tracking all of the above throughout the day and evening, so check back here for updates on traffic effects, etc. (as well as WSB on Facebook and on Twitter, if those are more convenient). As for everything else – the highlights:

LIFE’S JOURNEYS: 1-2:30 pm at West Seattle Senior Center. From organizers: “This group will explore the territory we find ourselves in when involved in a significant transition. Are you in a changing time – relationships, housing, health, mobility, losses, retirement, etc? Are you looking for ways to make new connections?” Facilitated by Laurie Becharas, Licensed Marriage and Family therapist, and D’vorah Kost, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Cost: $20/month donation; no one turned away for inability to pay.

WEST SEATTLE COOKING CLUB West Seattle Cooking Club! Today’s theme: Holiday cookie exchange! 2:30 pm, Beveridge Place Pub.

TINY TIGER GAME DEMO: As previewed earlier this morning – 3-6 pm at Cupcake Royale in The Junction.

WHAT TO DO ABOUT STREET TREES? Street tree ordinance public-input meeting, High Point Community Center, 6:30 pm, details here.

NORTH DELRIDGE NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL: North Delridge Neighborhood Council meeting, 6:30 pm, Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW) – different location than usual.

WHAT ARE YOUR PRIORITIES? 7- 9 pm in the Community Room at The Kenney (WSB sponsor), 7125 Fauntleroy Ave SW. Meeting and conversation with West Seattle neighbors and elected officials, hosted by the West Seattle Unit of the League of Women Voters of Seattle-King County. Hear from West Seattle neighbor and City Councilmember Tom Rasmussen and others about major issues facing our community as well as their priorities. Ask questions, and engage in conversation. Free and open to the public.

CHRISTMAS SHIP VISITS ONE MORE TIME: Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship in West Seattle one more time! 8:40-9 pm at Don Armeni Boat Ramp.

LOOKING FOR HOLIDAY INFO? Christmas lights, Christmas tree sales, and upcoming events … all on the WSB West Seattle Holidays page.

(WSB photo from one of the Christmas Ship’s 2010 stops)
Happy Saturday! From the WSB West Seattle Holidays page and Events calendar:

WEST SEATTLE SHOPPING: Two more weekends to shop before Christmas Eve. Shop West Seattle! We have just added another coupon to the Holiday Shopping Guide page, and our year-round Coupons page has a few options that might be of holiday assistance. (Each coupon is individually viewable/printable.)

‘ART PAGEANT’:: Diva Espresso‘s annual Art Pageant: 9 am-4 pm, 4480 Fauntleroy.

SEE SANTA! Santa Claus at Holy Rosary Tree Lot, 9 am-noon, BYO camera, 41st/Dakota … why look, he’s also at CAPERS, 1-5 pm (also bring-your-own camera) … Westwood Village Santa photos, 10 am-8 pm.

SCHOOL BAZAAR: Highland Park Elementary (1012 SW Trenton) is having its 4th annual holiday bazaar, 10 am-3 pm. In addition to the bazaar itself, they’re having a bake sale, and a raffle with donations from vendors and local businesses.

SANTA PAWS: Windermere West Seattle invites you and your four-legged friends to our office from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. A professional photographer will be taking pictures of your pets with Santa. We will also have holiday treats for you and the little ones. You can also bring items to donate to the YMCA Kids Program. See Windermerewestseattle.com for a donation list. Donations are not required, but certainly appreciated.

ALKI CRAB AND FISH SUPPORTERS’ RALLY: Noon, supporters of Alki Crab and Fish, as it challenges city’s decision to award Seacrest Boathouse contract to another proposer, plan to rally just south/east of Seacrest. Our most recent story about the situation is here.

TIME TO TANGO: Argentine Tango Classes In West Seattle at Allstar Fitness, 2629 SW Andover. Saturdays from 1-3 PM, $7, more info here. Contact Layton Miller: 360.250.2066, info@gttango.com

THREE CHRISTMAS SHIP STOPS: Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship in West Seattle! 5:15-5:35 pm at Seacrest, 8:50-9:10 at Lowman Beach, 9:40-10 pm at Alki (where you will find strolling performers enacting Biblical scenes).

DINE AND DANCE: Holiday Potluck Dinner and Dance at Highland Park Improvement Club, starts 6 pm, details here.

BENEFIT AT THE BRIDGE: Rachel Halladay benefit at The Bridge, 7 pm till close, raising money for therapy that is helping Rachel learn to walk again after a car crash in her teens took away that ability. Live music, raffle prizes, drink specials. 21+. Here’s the official flyer.

‘BIG CHRISTMAS BROADCAST OF 1941’: Free show at Westwood Christian Assembly (with dessert afterward), 7 pm, 9252 16th SW.

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE,’ RADIO-STYLE: 7:30 pm performance of Twelfth Night Productions‘ “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Show,” at Kenyon Hall. Based on the classic 1946 Frank Capra film, playwright Joe Landry’s take on “It’s a Wonderful Life” comes to life as a live 1940s radio broadcast at historic Kenyon Hall, 7904 35th SW. Tickets are available online at Brown Paper Tickets, and at Kenyon Hall, $15/adults, $12 students & seniors.

‘EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY’: ArtsWest presents “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!).” 7:30 pm; ticket info here.

LIVE MUSIC TONIGHT: Rock ‘n’ Roll Food Drive with The People Now at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), no cover but bring a nonperishable food-bank donation, 9 pm … Marco Benevento and Nefarious Jones at Skylark Café and Club, 9 pm (cover).

GOOD LUCK! 2 West Seattle Soccer Club teams are in the state semifinals, with the first game today – details here.

TV ALERT: Local home on “Sell This House: Extreme” – details here

FOOD TRUCK ROUNDUP: Food trucks today – Skillet (chicken/waffles lunch) and Bigfood (dinner) at Uptown Espresso Junction pod; Marination Mobile at 35th/Graham, 11 am-2 pm; Lumpia World, Curry Now and Charlie’s Buns at Highland Park Improvement Club at 11 am, Beloved Mexico along Fauntleroy south of Alaska (note, any of this subject to change, as food-truck operators tend to have sudden switches).

(“It’s a Wonderful Life” photo courtesy Twelfth Night Productions)
If you’re NOT booked up tonight with the company party, family party, neighborhood party, etc. – there’s still holiday (and otherwise) fun out there today/tonight – such as:

BINGO FOR CASH: Play today at the Senior Center of West Seattle, 4217 SW Oregon, buy in starts at 10:45 am and bingo starts at 11 am. Soup, sandwiches, salads, assorted pastries are available for purchase at nominal cost.

HOLIDAY WINE TASTINGS: Tonight at Metropolitan Market-Admiral (WSB sponsor), 5-7 pm, and Bin 41 in The Junction, 6-7:30 pm (details on The Bin’s website).

OLG TREE LIGHTING: Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish & School 7th Annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting at 7 pm. From the official announcement: “We’ll sing carols and celebrate around the “highest” Christmas tree in the city of Seattle—110 feet high, and 520 feet above sea level! More than 1,000 lights illuminate this beloved West Seattle Christmas tradition, with a tree that’s visible from as far away as Highway 99 (what’s left of it!) near the West Seattle Bridge. … This event also celebrates the effort from Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish and School to give back to the Seattle community. Everyone is encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to be donated to the St. Vincent DePaul Society, a non-profit organization that provides food and support services to those in need. The food items will be distributed to our local food banks. Guests will be invited to warm up in our Parish Hall after the tree lighting to enjoy complimentary refreshments and participate in Christmas craft activities for children.”

MORE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: Want to detour to see the bright sights on the way back from OLG? We’re continuing to build a list on the WSB West Seattle Holiday Events/Info page, and featuring at least one display nightly.

SUSTAINABLE WEST SEATTLE CELEBRATION: Tonight, 7-9 pm, holiday dinner celebration at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center – details on the SWS website.

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE,’ RADIO-STYLE: 7:30 pm performance of Twelfth Night Productions‘ “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Show,” at Kenyon Hall. Based on the classic 1946 Frank Capra film, playwright Joe Landry’s take on “It’s a Wonderful Life” comes to life as a live 1940s radio broadcast at historic Kenyon Hall, 7904 35th SW. Tickets are available online at Brown Paper Tickets, and at Kenyon Hall, $15/adults, $12 students & seniors.

‘EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY’: ArtsWest presents “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!).” 7:30 pm; ticket info here.

ART AND MUSIC AT YOUNGSTOWN: Stop by the art opening for local artist Deb McCarroll which includes a concert by West Seattle-based band, West Side Sally. There will be art available for purchase as well as food, drinks and live music! Art by Deb McCarroll; music by West Side Sally. Art 6-9 pm, music 9-11 pm, Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW).

ECLIPSE VERY VERY LATE TONIGHT (AKA EARLY TOMORROW): Since this will be BEFORE our daily preview for tomorrow, a shoutout here right now – if the weather cooperates, watch the sky to the west starting just before 5 am for the last total lunar eclipse visible (theoretically) from here for a couple years. Here’s the latest from our partners at the Seattle Times (who talked to experts including West Seattle’s own Alice Enevoldsen).

The West Seattle Art Walk is one of tonight’s biggest events – and if you stop by Alki Arts (2820 Alki SW), you can see that work (thanks to gallery owner Diane Venti for sharing) and others by Bryce Robertson, paying tribute to the Space Needle on its 50th anniversary. We’ll have more Art Walk previews here later (thanks to everyone who has sent theirs) – and you can dive into the sneak peeks published on the official Art Walk website. 6-9 pm, all over West Seattle. (Many venues are in The Junction, where it’s also the pre-Christmas Shop Late Thursday till 9 pm, participating merchants listed here!)

Meantime, it’s also a night for music:

SCHOOL CONCERTS: We recorded those members of the Chief Sealth International High School Orchestra at the school’s PTSA meeting a week ago. They and the Sealth choir, along with their counterparts from Denny International Middle School next door, have been rehearsing for tonight’s big concert, 7 pm, Sealth auditorium (2600 SW Thistle). Madison Middle School’s Senior Band, Senior Orchestra, and Jazz Band will perform their winter concert tonight as well, 7 pm in the Madison gym (45th/Spokane). (Update: Commenter says ALL Madison bands will play!)

And yet more from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

TRAFFIC ALERT: Road closures at spots along Spokane Street just east of West Seattle tonight – check the advisory for details.

TOY DONATIONS: KIRO’s Jenni Hogan is out on “Mobile Tweetup” patrol 10 am-1 pm picking up Toys for Tots donations – WSB sponsor Nurturing Expressions is a dropoff location; take over a toy!

BOOK SIGNING AT METROPOLITAN MARKET: Admiral Metropolitan Market (WSB sponsor) hosts Alexandra Hedin signing her book, Entertaining at Home: Inspiration, Recipes and Crafts for Creations for a Lovely Life, 4-6 pm.

BOOK SIGNINGS AT BEER JUNCTION: Arcadia Books signing at the Beer Junction, 5-8pm 4707 42nd Avenue Southwest. Come meet the collaborators of the latest Arcadia books- “West Seattle” and “Luna Park” – and taste a featured beer too! Your chance to buy signed copies and thrill your friends and family with these history books!

DELRIDGE DESC PROJECT DESIGN REVIEW: Southwest Design Review Board meeting for DESC proposal to build 75-unit apartment complex at 5444 Delridge to house chronically homeless people, Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW), 6:30 pm. (Archive of WSB project coverage is here; community volunteers’ information clearinghouse about tonight’s meeting and other project aspects is here.)

GO CONGRATULATE THE WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Last night, it won an award; tonight, it plays host to Ask An Expert for Do It Yourselfers, also at Youngstown, 6-8 pm.

OPEN HOUSE: Suite Arrangements open house in The Junction, treats, drinks, in-store specials, 4-9 pm

HOLIDAY TASTING: West Seattle Thriftway holiday tasting, 4-7 pm

GOT A PLACE FOR A NEW FRIEND? Friends of the Animals Foundation will be at Next to Nature with adoptable cats and kittens in formal wear (tuxedo cat, anyone?) and in need of new homes this Thursday from 6-9 pm. Browse the art, shop the winter farmers market, and adopt a new family member.

SWEETIE’S HOLIDAY PARTY: Sweetie Boutique in The Junction invites you to its holiday party: “Lots of great things in store, treats, eats & libations!” 7-10 pm. (And see Sweetie’s coupon on the WSB Holiday Shopping Guide coupons page.)

SHOPPING FOR A CHRISTMAS TREE? GOING OUT TO SEE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS? Info/updates on those – and more – are featured on the WSB West Seattle Holidays page.

The early bird gets the … flounder? Thanks to Bill Bacon for the photo! Here are today’s highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events and Holidays calendars:

WINE TASTING: 5:30-9 pm at The Cask (2350 California SW in the Admiral District) with Locati Cellars (details here)

DANCE TIME!: With live music by Lauren Petrie, at the Senior Center of West Seattle. 6 pm – 8:30 pm. Theme: Pearl Harbor Holiday Dance. $5-$7 donation, BYOB; reservations requested, 206-932-4044.

TREE LIGHTING/TOY DRIVE: Christmas celebration at Mars Hill Church-West Seattle (7551 35th SW), and the community is invited, 6:30 pm (indoor tree lighting at 7): “Usher in the holiday season through lights, color and music. There will be seasonal treats, classic carols and the Mars Hill West Seattle Students will be running “Santa’s Workshop”: a Christmas craft area for the kids. Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be joining us and kids can …get pictures with Santa! We will also be collecting toys to bless local children and families.” More info on this Facebook event page.

NEIGHBORHOOD MEETING: Tonight is the combined November/December meeting of the Highland Park Action Committee (which otherwise usually meets on 4th Wednesdays), 7 pm at Highland Park Improvement Club (12th/Holden), with the Nickelsville encampment on the agenda again this month (here’s our coverage of the last meeting).

‘EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY EVER TOLD’: ArtsWest presents the Seattle premiere of “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald and John K. Alvarez. 7:30 pm; ticket info here.

PRIDE SKATE: Tonight’s the monthly Pride Skate at Southgate Roller Rink in White Center, 9-11 pm – this time, the theme is “The ’80s.”

Check out student musicians James, Kelli, and Emma from Madison Middle School performing “The Time of Your Life” during their Bookfair kickoff last Friday! Thanks to librarian Stacia Bell for pointing it out. It’s continuing through this Friday and it’s atop today’s highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar –

MADISON MIDDLE SCHOOL BOOK FAIR: The official announcement:

Madison Middle School is hosting its first Book Fair of the year at Barnes & Noble in Westwood Village until December 9th. If you would like to support Madison Middle School students and the purchase of new books for their library, you can shop at any Barnes & Noble store or online at bn.com/bookfairs between now and this Friday, December 9th, and a percentage of everything you buy — books, movies, CDs, Nooks, lattes in the cafe–will benefit Madison students. Just be sure you mention Madison Middle School’s book fair at the register and use the bookfair voucher code 10619799 when shopping online. You can also email the Bookfair code to family and friends across the country and they can benefit Madison with their purchases as well. Thank you for supporting reading at Madison Middle School!

Speaking of reading … and music …

AT THE LIBRARIES: From the Seattle Public Library calendar of events – Toddler Story Time at the West Seattle Branch, 10:30 am; Baby Story Time at the Southwest Branch, 11:30 am; Citizenship Class at the Southwest Branch, 6 pm; Family Story Time at the Delridge Branch, 7 pm.

HOLIDAY CONCERT: They’re the local music organization so big, its annual holiday concert happens in two installments! Tonight, the second concert by West Seattle Community Orchestras‘ Debut and Intermediate orchestras, also featuring Endolyne Children’s Choir (as seen last Saturday night at the West Seattle Junction Tree Lighting), 6:30 pm in the auditorium at Chief Sealth International High School – details here; $5 suggested donation.

CHAMPAGNE TASTING: Super Deli Mart (35th/Barton) is presenting a holiday Champagne/sparkling wine tasting tonight, 6-8 pm: The announcement says its lineup includes: Louis Roederer Cristal, Dom Perignon, Vue Clicquot, Moet & Chandon Imperial, Louis Roederer Brut Premier, GH Mumm, Taittinger, Alma Negra & 8 others, and that they’ll offer orange juice for mimosa fans.

NIGHTLIFE: Open mike at Skylark Café and Club hosted by Tekla and Brian, all-acoustic, 7 pm … Rock music/pop culture trivia at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 8 pm … The Starlight showcase at Shadowland (home to the All-Stars who rocked the Junction Tree Lighting), 9 pm. (Always happy to mention live entertainment – but you have to let us know about it – editor@westseattleblog.com – if your venue has a calendar of events that is regularly updated, that works too; send us the link)

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND INFORMATION: We’re continuing to update our all-season page – which includes lists of Christmas-tree lots, bright holiday lights to see, tree lightings ahead, Christmas Ship schedule, and a lot more (including solstice, Hanukkah, and New Year’s info as we get/find it) – it’s on the WSB West Seattle Holidays page.

In case the sun doesn’t appear again today – there’s a memory from Sunday, courtesy of Darren Pilon. (Thank you!) Meantime, before we get on with the rest of the day’s news, here are some of the scheduled highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

SOUTHBOUND VIADUCT CLOSURE OVERNIGHT TONIGHT: 10 pm-5 am, but two southbound onramps – at Columbia and Elliott – are scheduled to close at 9 pm, and there will also be “rolling slowdowns” for the northbound lanes overnight. Details in our preview from last week.

LIFE’S JOURNEYS: 1-2:30 pm at West Seattle Senior Center. From organizers: “This group will explore the territory we find ourselves in when involved in a significant transition. Are you in a changing time – relationships, housing, health, mobility, losses, retirement, etc? Are you looking for ways to make new connections?” Facilitated by Laurie Becharas, Licensed Marriage and Family therapist, and D’vorah Kost, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Cost: $20/month donation; no one turned away for inability to pay.

LIKE TO COOK? West Seattle Cooking Club! Today’s theme: Wrapped. Bring a dish and join in. 2:30 pm, Beveridge Place Pub.

BAN THE BAG? Support or oppose a plastic grocery-bag ban in Seattle? Tonight, all interested are invited to the public hearing at Seattle City Council chambers downtown, 5:30 pm (signups at 5 pm).

ART LENDING LIBRARY: It doesn’t open often – so tonight’s a rare chance! From 6 to 8:30 pm on the second floor of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge). Look for entrance signs at the side door off the main north lot (if you’ve found yourself in the downstairs Youngstown hallway you’ve gone too far). There is parking in the main north parking lot and also on the street. If you would like to become a new member, this is the time to do it. The process is easy and you can check out a piece of art at the same event.

WEST SEATTLE HI-YU: General meeting, 6:30 pm at St. John’s the Baptist Episcopal Church, 3050 California SW (enter through the SE doors). Bring ideas/drawings for a 2012 Hi-Yu float theme. It’s also the Holiday Potluck; bring something to share

LECTURE ON EARLY CHILDHOOD: The We Are Family Community Lecture Series presents Terry Goetz, early childhood specialist, 7 pm at Admiral Congregational Church, 4320 SW Hill St. From the announcement: “Find out why providing a rich, multi-sensory world for infants, toddlers and preschoolers supports optimal brain development. … The lecture will appeal to caregivers, teachers and parents who want to be actively engaged in a child’s development during the first five years of life.” $10; refreshments and child care available.

HIP-HOP MONDAYS At Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW), Studio Santina is teaching Hip Hop and Funk dancing for kids and adults. Visit studiosantina.com for class times; to register, call (206) 369-7197.

LOOKING FOR HOLIDAY INFO? Christmas lights, Christmas tree sales, and upcoming events … all on the WSB West Seattle Holidays page.

Tonight’s West Seattle Junction tree-lighting ceremony is the biggest event on a full slate of holiday happenings (plus a few others) – at right, we photographed the tree late Friday afternoon. From the WSB West Seattle Holidays page and Events calendar:

ROTARY CHILDREN’S SHOPPING SPREE: Happening now at SODO Sears – our ongoing coverage is here.

KIWANIS PANCAKE BREAKFAST: Happening now! Santa photos are part of Kiwanis Club of West Seattle‘s annual pancake breakfast, through 11 am at the Masonic Hall (40th/Edmunds): This year’s breakfast has a special emphasis. A major part of the proceeds will help fund the Kiwanis Children’s Cancer Project (KCCP). This effort by Kiwanians of the Pacific Northwest will support fellowships for juvenile cancer research at Children’s Hospital. $6 adults/$3 kids at the door. **Bring unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots!!**

GIVE THE PARK A GIFT: Join the Friends of Lincoln Park doing invasive plant removal from 9 am to noon. Meet in the north parking lot at the kiosk (Fauntleroy Way SW and SW Rose St). Dress warm!

STORY TIME! At Kol HaNeshamah, 6115 SW Hinds, 9:30 am The PJ Library Storytime at Kol HaNeshamah Congregation. The PJ Library welcomes Erik Lawson as our guest musician, with PJ Library manager Amy Paquette as our storyteller. Book: “The Hanukkah Trike.”

STUFF THE BUS FOR NICKELSVILLE! Bring donations to Nichole at Merrill Gardens-Admiral Heights (WSB sponsor, 2326 California SW), 10 am-4 pm, as they gather items for the encampment’s residents, which include children. We published an update yesterday with the “wish list” of items, for a specific family with kids as well as the encampment in general – details here.

WEST SEATTLE ARTISTS’ STUDIO TOUR: Wide variety of West Seattle artists featured at local artist studios during the Seattle Sampling Artists Studio Tour this weekend: Visit Penguina Designs Studio (penguinadesigns.com), Brace Point Pottery (bracepointpottery.com), Ken Turner Pottery Studio (kenturnerpottery.com) or Marilyn Moore Studio all without leaving West Seattle! Multiple artists are featured at each studio; full details at seattlesampling.com . Hours today (and tomorrow) are 10 am-5 pm.

SCHMITZ PARK HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR: Schmitz Park Elementary‘s Holiday Craft Fair, 10 am-3 pm, 5000 SW Spokane Street, including crafts made by students to benefit the West Seattle Food Bank, as well as a variety of vendors.

HOLIDAY GIFT SHOW AT WSUU: 2nd Annual Holiday Gift Show Featuring Fine Arts and Crafts By Local Artists. 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation Social Hall, 7141 California Ave SW.

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE: At CAPERS in The Junction, 10 am-6 pm (including Santa – see that listing below).

HOMEMADE BRIGADE: Freshy’s Coffee “Homemade Brigade” sale, 10 am-4 pm, details on this Facebook event page.

‘HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS’ AT THE KENNEY: Luncheon & open house/tours at The Kenney (WSB sponsor). Tours begin at 10:30 a.m., Lunch served at 11:45 a.m. RSVP ASAP to 206-938-6941. 7125 Fauntleroy Way SW.

MAKE YOUR HOME QUAKE-RESISTANT: Seismic retrofitting DIY workshop at Seattle Public Library’s West Seattle (Admiral) branch, 11 am.

SANTA PHOTOS: Daily photos with Santa at Westwood Village (breezeway just east of Bed Bath Beyond). Carolers on Saturdays, 11:30 am-1:30 pm. Giving tree for the Salvation Army. Hours and Santas listed here. … Bring your own camera to CAPERS in The Junction for “do-it-yourself” photos with the Santa who worked at Westwood in years past, 1-5 pm.

SANTA PAWS: Santa Paws is Coming to Town! Gather up your 4-footed friends for a free photo with you and Santa on Saturday, Dec. 3 from noon-2:30 at the Prudential Northwest Realty Office in Jefferson Square. Santa is very busy this time of year, so he only has 30 time slots available. Call 206-932-4500 to check if there’s room – 4700 42nd Ave SW, Suite 600.

ALKI ARTS BAZAAR: Holiday Shopping Bazaar at Alki Arts, 1-5 pm. From owner Diane Venti: “Fun Day of Shopping with local artistic vendors! For one day only Alki Arts turns into a mini vendor showroom. Shop table to table with some of our local friends and neighbors for great gifts and treasures. We will be hosting… Three jewelry artists will have tables set up, Two handbag designers will be holding their sample sales, and one handmade scarf designer is coming, along with all of the regular art we have in stock by West Seattle’s working artists. Oh yes, and we will be serving mimosas and cookies! yum! Bring your girlfriends and shop with us!

WINE TASTING: Bin 41 in The Junction has a special Saturday wine tasting, 1-3 pm.

ORNAMENT-MAKING PARTY: At Young at Art, now open in The Junction (42nd south of Alaska, west of Jefferson Square), 2-4 pm, fun for the whole family before the tree lighting!

REMODELING/CUSTOM HOMEBUILDING WORKSHOP: Ventana Construction (WSB sponsor) had a couple spots available as of late last night, for this free 2 pm workshop at their HQ (California/Findlay) – info here.

ART UNDER $100 IN SOUTH PARK: This big sale is happening tonight too, 3-10 pm at South Park Community Center (details here).

BELLI CAPELLI ANNIVERSARY: This West Seattle salon is celebrating 20 years! Open house 3:30 to 6:30 pm. Live music, hors d’oeuvres, raffle tickets and door prizes, for the first 40 guests. 3902 California SW.

BAZAAR IN ARBOR HEIGHTS: Blithe Bazaar in West Seattle, 4-8 pm near Arbor Heights Elementary – full details here

JUNCTION TREE LIGHTING: The West Seattle Junction Christmas Tree Lighting event is at 5 pm. Junction Plaza Park (42nd/Alaska) – West Seattle High School Band plays at 4 pm outside KeyBank; Endolyne Choir and others perform during the tree lighting itself.

CLOTHING, TOYS, ETC. SWAP: Join Duwamish Co-housing for the second annual Fall Clothing, Toy, and Household goods Swap on Saturday, December 3rd from 5-8 PM in the Common House. Please bring your clean, gently used clothes (women’s, men’s, & kid’s), accessories, toys, and durable household goods on Saturday to swap! All clothing items should be clean and free of any tears or stains. Toys should have all parts and be in good working order, as should small household items. Please bring instruction manuals for small appliances. (No furniture, white elephant, large appliances please). Light beverage service will be provided- feel free to bring a snack to share. Duwamish Co-housing is located at 6000 17th Ave. SW. There is limited parking in the community so please park on 16th Street (across from South Seattle Community College) and come down the zig-zag pathway across from the middle entrance to the college.

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE,’ RADIO STYLE: 7:30 pm – second night for Twelfth Night Productions‘ “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Show,” at Kenyon Hall. Based on the classic 1946 Frank Capra film, playwright Joe Landry’s take on “It’s a Wonderful Life” comes to life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. This live radio show will be performed at historic Kenyon Hall, 7904 35th SW. Tickets are available online at Brown Paper Tickets, and at Kenyon Hall, $15/adults, $12 students & seniors.

‘EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY’: Continuing tonight, ArtsWest presents the Seattle premiere of “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald and John K. Alvarez. 7:30 pm; ticket info here.

‘ROCKY HORROR’: The monthly midnight showing at Admiral Theater is tonight.