(Alki Point eagle at dawn, photographed earlier this week by Gary Jones)
Looking out over the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, here are some of the highlights we find for today/tonight (check out the calendar itself to find many more!):

BAZAAR: Ready to start holiday shopping? Along with visiting your favorite independent local retailers, bazaars aplenty are happening around West Seattle, and the next one starts today, 10 am-4 pm at Providence Mount St. Vincent, with holiday decorations as well as potential gift items, as detailed in our calendar listing. (4831 35th SW)

WINE TASTINGS: Three are on our calendar for today – Northwest Wine Academy at South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor), 1-4 pm ; Admiral Metropolitan Market (WSB sponsor) with Thanksgiving-friendly wines as well as cheese and other food samples, 4-7 pm; Bin 41 in The Junction,

INTRO TO YOGA MEDITATION: Special class at 6:30 pm at SoundYoga (WSB sponsor) – details in our calendar listing. (5639 California SW)

THREE SHORT PLAYS ABOUT SHAKESPEARE: Unique presentation of three 1-acts by the Seattle Lutheran High School Drama Club, 7:30 pm in Menashe Gym on campus; details in our calendar listing. (4100 SW Genesee)

‘DIARY OF ANNE FRANK’: The West Seattle High School Drama Club production – previewed here before the run – closes tonight, 7:30 pm, at the WSHS Theater. Details in our calendar listing. (3000 California SW)

(Photo by Deborah Achak, via the WSB Flickr group – recent turf war between great blue heron and crows, near Lowman Beach)
Here’s some of what’s up today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: Today, bring the little one(s) to Southwest Branch Library at 11 am to enjoy story time! (35th/Henderson)

WEST SEATTLE THRIFTWAY HOLIDAY TASTE: 4-7 pm, come to WS Thriftway (WSB sponsor) and sample food and drink to consider for your holiday gatherings. (California/Fauntleroy/Morgan)

WEST SEATTLE MONTESSORI OPEN HOUSE: Tonight’s your chance to tour West Seattle Montessori School (WSB sponsor) – it’s the fall open house, 6 pm-7:30 pm. Here’s the official flyer. (11215 15th SW)

WEST SEATTLE CYCLERY BIKE CLUB LAUNCH: First meeting at West Seattle Cyclery (WSB sponsor), 7 pm! Topics to include:

• Clinics with local coaches
• Discounts on products
• Team and shop rides, runs and gatherings
• Multi-day rides around the PNW

See our calendar listing for more info, including how to be part of it even if you can’t make tonight’s meeting. (4508 California SW)

GENESEE-SCHMITZ NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL: GSNC‘s general meeting is at 7 tonight, West Seattle Presbyterian Church. (3601 California SW)

USO BENEFIT: Casino-style games, silent auction, more, at the annual USO Fundraiser at Emeritus @ Admiral Heights (WSB sponsor) 7-9 pm – details in our calendar listing. (2326 California SW)

OPEN MICROPHONE: Thursday is open-mike night at Diva Espresso in The Triangle, 7-9 pm. (4480 Fauntleroy Way SW)

Not in West Seattle but of interest:

WHAT SHOULD BE IN THE NEXT PARKS LEVY? As previewed here last week, tonight is the hearing at which you can tell the Parks Legacy Advisory Committee your thoughts about proposed priorities for the potential parks-funding levy that might go to voters next year. This is your chance to advocate for specific West Seattle projects and/or priorities (such as – money for maintenance, which wasn’t in the last levy). The hearing is at 6 pm (but show up earlier to sign up), Miller Community Center on Capitol Hill. (330 19th Ave. E.)

NORTH HIGHLINE UNINCORPORATED AREA COUNCIL: The community council for White Center and other nearby unincorporated-area communities has its monthly meeting tonight – very busy agenda, with details on our partner site White Center Now. NHUAC meets at 7 pm at the North Highline Fire District‘s HQ. (1243 SW 112th)

(Photo by Mark Wangerin – common loon snacking on a starry flounder)
Before we get any further into Wednesday – highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

MADISON MIDDLE SCHOOL BOOKFAIR: One of the school fundraisers we’re spotlighting is the Madison Middle School Bookfair – and in addition to on-campus purchase opportunities, there’s a way to participate online too – explained in our calendar item.

‘GROWTH BOUNDARIES’ THIRD DRAFT AT SCHOOL BOARD MEETING: While the vote is two weeks away, the introduction of the third and potentially final draft of the “Growth Boundaries” for Seattle Public Schools happens at tonight’s meeting. (Here’s our report from Friday, when the draft was published – read the comments for more info from people who’ve been reviewing it.) The meeting starts at 4:15 pm, but this isn’t until the 6 pm (and beyond) section, which also includes the Intermediate Capacity-Management Plan, featuring the designation of E.C. Hughes as a future emergency site and the change of Boren to be the permanent home of K-5 (future K-8) STEM. Here’s the agenda. (3rd/Lander – comments also are still being taken at growthboundaries@seattleschools.org)

DANCE TIME WITH LAUREN PETRIE: The popular musician plays at the Senior Center of West Seattle tonight for a 6-8 pm dance; details in our calendar listing. (California/Oregon)

MURRAY CSO ‘PRE-CONSTRUCTION MEETING’: Before construction gets going on the Murray Combined Sewer Overflow Control storage-tank project across from Lowman Beach Park, King County Wastewater Treatment Division invites you to a meeting tonight for information and Q/A re: what’s about to happen. Fauntleroy Church, 6:30 pm. (9140 California SW)

SOUTHWEST DISTRICT COUNCIL: Tonight’s meeting includes a briefing on the city’s move toward requiring owners of unreinforced-brick buildings to retrofit them for earthquake safety, as previewed here last weekend. The council also will talk about new leadership for next year. 6:30 pm, Southwest Teen Life Center. (2801 SW Thistle)

‘POWER OF PARENTS’ AT WSHS PTSA: As previewed here earlier, the West Seattle High School PTSA invites the community to a “Power of Parents” workshop during tonight’s meeting, 7 pm in the school library. (3000 California SW)

ALSO AT WSHS – ‘DIARY OF ANNE FRANK’: The West Seattle High School Drama Club production – previewed here earlier this week – continues tonight, 7:30 pm, at the WSHS Theater. Details in our calendar listing. (3000 California SW)

MEDICAL MARIJUANA GROWERS’ MEETING: As noted here earlier this week, the new Association of Cannabis Breeders and Growers – working to keep the medical-marijuana industry from being rendered extinct by the new recreational-marijuana industry – is having its first meeting at 8 pm at the VFW Hall in The Triangle. (3601 SW Alaska)

See our calendar for even more of what’s up tonight, tomorrow, next week, next month, and beyond!

(Flicker photographed by Danny McMillin during Saturday’s windstorm, persevering at suet feeder)
Busy Tuesday – highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

ELECTION DAY! Last chance to vote. King County ballot-dropoff vans are at West Seattle Stadium (4332 35th SW) and Greenbridge in White Center (9720 8th SW) 10 am-8 pm.

(Photo added 11:20 am – Tracy & Donnie @ Greenbridge ballot-dropoff van)
You can also get your ballot into postal mail, but if you do that, be sure it has a stamp (which isn’t needed if you drop it off at a van or one of the fixed dropboxes around the county). As usual, one round of results is expected after voting ends, usually about 8:15 pm, and we’ll publish highlights here on WSB immediately. P.S. We’ve heard so far from one venue promising election coverage on the big screen – Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor); calendar listing here.

FASHION SHOW/LUNCH: 11:45 am, have lunch at the Senior Center of West Seattle and see the newest fashions from Chico’s. RSVP – info’s in the calendar listing. (California/Oregon)

FREE HIP-HOP CLASS FOR KIDS – 3 CHANCES TONIGHT! Kids 6-12 are invited to a free hip-hop class at any of three times, at two city-run community centers in West Seattle this evening – 5 pm at Delridge CC (4501 Delridge Way SW), 6 pm at Hiawatha CC (2700 California SW), 7 pm back at Delridge CC.

SAFETY INFO FOR FAMILIES: Tonight’s the special presentation at Hope Lutheran School, organized after recent incidents left many local families worried about kids’ safety and how to talk with them without leaving them more fearful than knowledgeable. 6:30-8 pm including Q/A time. The school is adjacent to the church. (42nd/Oregon)

WESTWOOD-ROXHILL-ARBOR HEIGHTS COMMUNITY COUNCIL: 6:15 pm, it’s the monthly meeting of WWRHAH, with this agenda as shared by chair Amanda Kay Helmick:

6:15-6:20: Introductions & Community News
6:20-6:25: Infrastructure Committee Update: Update from Committee Leader, Chris Stripinis.
6:25-6:35: WSTC: Vote/motion to endorse the work of the West Seattle Transportation Coalition by WWRHAH.

6:35-7:10: Roxhill Park Enhancements: Brainstorming session of ideas to improve and enhance Roxhill Park with future grants, along with Seattle Parks & the Friends of Roxhill to advise on what may or may not be feasible.

7:10-7:40: Roxhill Park & Westwood Village safety. What can be improved in that regard? With Seattle Parks, the Friends of Roxhill, Daystar Retirement Village, Andy Thompson; Assistant General Manager of Westwood Village, and Officer Flores of the SPD SW Precinct’s Community Policing Team.

RESCHEDULED INTERACT CLUB KICKOFF: Last week’s meeting had an emergency last-minute postponement so it’s on for 6:30 pm tonight at Southwest Youth and Family Services; here’s our original preview. (Delridge/Alaska)

ZONING EXCEPTIONS FOR NEW SCHOOL AT GENESEE HILL? The committee convened to consider “departures” – zoning exceptions – proposed for the new school meets for the first time tonight at 6:30 pm, Schmitz Park Elementary. (5000 SW Spokane)

KENNEDY HIGH SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 6:30-8:30 pm, tour John F. Kennedy Catholic High School (WSB sponsor) in Burien, including the new science lab. Details in our calendar listing. (140 S. 140th)

FAMILY STORY TIME: Tonight, bring the family for story time at Delridge Branch Library, 7 pm. (5423 Delridge Way SW)

Dragon in the sky over West Seattle! In case you hadn’t seen that photo on the WSB Facebook page, we’re sharing it here too. Thanks to Viola from Wise Orchid Martial Arts for sharing it; she credits husband Rusel for the pic. Now, fiercely onward to highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

BALLOT-DROPOFF VAN: Why wait till the last day (tomorrow)? If you haven’t voted – or just haven’t sent your ballot yet – the ballot van is back in West Seattle today, 10 am-5 pm at West Seattle Stadium, 4432 35th SW. (If you’re off-peninsula during those hours, go here to find the list of other places you can drop off your ballot.) No stamp required if you take your ballot to a van or dropbox; it IS required if you use postal mail.

BEGINNING KARATE: Alki Community Center starts a new series of classes for ages 7 and up, 6 pm tonight. Details in our calendar listing. (5817 SW Stevens)

FREE SELF-DEFENSE CLASSES: Seattle Integrated Martial Arts is offering two free classes tonight at 6:15 and 7:15 pm – details in the calendar listing. (4159 Fauntleroy Way SW)

FAMILY STORY TIME: 6:30 pm at High Point Library, free and fun. (35th/Raymond)

FINANCIAL GOALS 101: Free workshop in the “Family Matters” series at Fauntleroy Church, 7 pm – details in our calendar listing, including how to RSVP. (9140 California SW)

SPORTS TRIVIA TEST RUN AT TALARICO’S: How about some sports trivia with your Monday Night Football? Phillip, who hosts Wednesday trivia at Talarico’s in The Junction, is going to try out Sports Trivia tonight, starting around 8 pm during MNF: “$2 per person. Cash prizes. Three Rounds of trivia. Over before 10 pm.”

Not in West Seattle but of interest:

WEST SEATTLE PHOTOGRAPHER’S NEW EXHIBITION: Christopher Boffoli‘s new “Big Appetites” photography exhibition “Amuse Bouche” has just opened at Winston Wächter Fine Art in South Lake Union. Christopher (longtime WSB contributor) says, “The exhibition – a continuation of work with tiny figures and food – features all new photographs shot over the past year in my West Seattle studio, as well as a few classics being presented in super-sized mountings for the first time (like the 48×72″ version of Macaron Team, which features Bakery Nouveau macarons).” The studio is open 10 am-5 pm Mondays-Saturdays. (203 Dexter Avenue N.)

See more of what’s up today, tonight, tomorrow, and WAY beyond, on our calendar!

Calmer weather today – but we have two bonus photos from our windy Saturday, before our look at what’s up for your Sunday. Above, a dash through the spray at Constellation Park south of Alki Point, courtesy of Chaucer Wells Photography; below, taken in the same area, Tina Doherty‘s view of kites:

Today, as noted earlier, you just might see whales from that area instead! Now, the calendar highlights:

FARMERS’ MARKET BACK TO REGULAR SPOT: Just a reminder that after last week’s Harvest Festival setup in the middle of the street, the West Seattle Farmers’ Market returns today to its regular location, the parking lot at 44th/Alaska. Year-round, 10 am-2 pm.

WEST SEATTLE ULTIMATE FAMILY FRISBEE: Now at High Point for the fall season, 31st/Myrtle. 11 am, all welcome!

SOUTHWEST LIBRARY ARTISTS’ RECEPTION: 2 pm, it’s the reception for this year’s Community Art Show at Southwest Branch Library. (35th/Henderson)

COOKING WITH BEER: You’re invited to brew up a recipe including beer and bring it to today’s 3 pm meeting of the West Seattle Cooking Club. Find them at Beveridge Place Pub. (6413 California SW)

LIVE MUSIC: Acoustic soloist Zach Bellas at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 3-5 pm. (5612 California SW)

Halloween holdovers and Dia de los Muertos observances highlight the selections from our calendar – as well as literature, film, and charity – on a day that began with another beautiful sunrise, photographed by Carolyn Newman:

PAINTED SKULLS AUCTIONED FOR CHILDHAVEN: At Matador-West Seattle (and Ballard, if you happen to find yourself out that way), you can bid today on painted longhorn skulls with “Day of the Dead” themes, as a benefit for Childhaven. Matador provided this photo of Alki Beach Tattoo’s Ian Duca working on one of the skulls:

Matador also is featuring themed food/drink specials during the auction hours, 5-11 pm today. More details in our calendar listing. (4546 California SW)

PETER STEKEL @ WORDS, WRITERS, WEST SEATTLE: The new monthly series of West Seattle author readings/appearances continues with its second installment today, with Alki’s Peter Stekel at Barnes and Noble/Westwood Village, 4-6 pm:

From the announcement by Southwest Seattle Historical Society, which organized the series:

Peter Stekel, noted outdoor adventure writer, photographer and reporter from Seattle, specializes in feature articles and photography of the Sierra Nevada. In his new book, “Final Flight: The Mystery of a WWII Plane Crash and the Frozen Airmen in the High Sierra” (Wilderness Press, September 2010), Stekel uncovers the real-life mystery of the famous mummified WWII Airmen.

The event is free; books are available for purchase. B&N is on the SW Barton side of the shopping center.

HIGHLAND PARK CORNER BAR: Extra-special edition tonight, Dia de los Muertos theme, at Highland Park Improvement Club:

DJ Rich brings the Funk from 6-7:30 pm, then Accidental Rhino will perform vintage acoustic jazz from the 1920s and ’30s!

In the spirit of Día de Muertos, we will have an altar de muertos upon which you may place a small memento of someone who has passed that you would like to remember. This can be a (small) photo, a poem, or just their name. Between sets of the band (8:30 or so) people can come up to the mic and share a short (30 seconds) remembrance. This can be merely saying their name, a humorous story, or whatever you would like others to know about this person. It should be a celebration. Barry, our master of ceremonies, will read something for you, if you desire. … Kids welcome until 9 pm. There are toys and games set up on tables.

Starts at 6 pm at HPIC. (12th/Holden)

SKELETON THEATRE: 6-9 pm, it’s your second and last chance to catch this year’s edition of Skeleton Theatre, 6-9 pm (directions and show info here). The animatronic skeletons are back, reprising the space-themed “Ulna 13” from last year with updates. Shows “roughly on the hour and half-hour.” (36th/Hanford)

AVALANCHE PREVENTION & FILM PREMIERE: At Mountain to Sound Outfitters in The Triangle tonight, legendary big-mountain skier/guide Dean Cummings appears to speak about avalanche safety and premiere his new movie. Full details on M2SO’s website. (3602 SW Alaska)

‘DIARY OF ANNE FRANK’: The West Seattle High School Drama Club production – previewed here earlier this week – opens tonight, 7:30 pm, at the WSHS Theater. Details in our calendar listing. (3000 California SW)

SKYLARK’S MASQUERADE-BAND BASH: Skylark Café and Club, 7th annual “Come as You Aren’t” battle of the bands, starting at 8 pm, free – here’s the lineup:

Friends and Family as DANIEL JOHNSTON
In Cahoots as HEART
Gibraltar as LOU REED
Wiscon as G.G. ALLIN
Post Adolescence as PLACEBO
The Fantastic Fish Club as DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID
The Mangles as THE REPLACEMENTS
Werebearcat as TALKING HEADS
Robotic About Us as THE FLAMING LIPS
Snaketopus as RAMMSTEIN

(3803 Delridge Way SW)

Remember to set your clock back Saturday night if it doesn’t automatically change, so you’re not out of synch with the calendar on Sunday morning!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lots more on our calendar!

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

VFW Essay Contest

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HPIC is at 12th/Holden.

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

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

Lots more on the calendar!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Westside is at 7740 34th SW.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More information is available at explorer-west.org

(Explorer West is at 10015 28th SW)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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