(East-facing camera on the West Seattle Bridge; see other cams on the WSB Traffic page)
Give yourself extra time to get where you are going this morning. We say that for multiple reasons: First, it’s foggy and cold, so the roads are slick. Second, after President Obama’s overnight stay downtown, his motorcade will be back on the move to Sea-Tac after 8 am (if not sooner), which will mean some traffic effects, along with the overnight security closures, as tweeted by SDOT:

Road closures remain around Westin Hotel for presidential visit. Give yourself extra time if driving near area during morning commute.

— seattledot (@seattledot) November 25, 2013

Other notes this morning:

DOWNTOWN BUS STOP: If you ride Metro between West Seattle and downtown, note that the stop on Columbia east of 2nd remains closed through Wednesday – here’s the advisory.

HOLIDAY TRANSIT CHANGES THURSDAY/FRIDAY: Early reminder, Metro will be on a Sunday schedule on Thanksgiving Day, and “reduced weekday/no UW” on Friday. The Water Taxi will not run at all either day. (And even if you don’t use transit, if you have to go downtown Friday morning, remember the holiday parade, which has some West Seattle participants – more on that later today.)

7:24 AM: The bridge was socked in earlier; not any more. Presidential-motorcade security is reported to be ready to go; we’re monitoring multiple channels including scanner, TV, and Twitter, and will make a note here when the motorcade leaves.

8:11 AM: KING 5 reports the motorcade-related road closures between downtown and Sea-Tac are kicking in, so the President will apparently be on the move shortly. From WSDOT: “Roadway closures starting: SB I-5 starting at Mercer including ramps, 405 near Southcenter to SB 5, I-90 to SB I-5, WB 518.”

8:31 AM: KING 5 is now showing the motorcade leaving.

8:51 AM: Per WSDOT via Twitter, the president is arriving at the airport (TV shows a fogged-in view of Air Force One):

OK, everything is back open road-wise.

— WSDOT Traffic (@wsdot_traffic) November 25, 2013

8:55 PM: Via live KING 5 coverage, we’ve seen the President board Air Force One after the trademark wave. Will add one more note after we see the takeoff; he’s headed for San Francisco, and then Los Angeles tonight.

9:09 AM: Air Force One has taken off, to the south so no West Seattle flyby.

(The brant are back! Photo by Danny McMillin, shared via the WSB Flickr group)
Looking ahead to your West Seattle (and a bit beyond) Sunday, we start with two traffic notes:

JUNCTION TRAFFIC ALERT: Again today, one block of SW Alaska is scheduled to be closed to vehicle traffic, 7 am-10 pm, for utility work related to the construction project between California and 42nd. The sidewalk on the north side of the street remains open.

PRESIDENTIAL SCHEDULE: If you are headed eastward this afternoon/evening, take note of President Obama‘s visit. This time, he is scheduled to fly into Sea-Tac instead of Boeing Field, arriving after 4 pm, going to fundraisers in North Seattle and Medina, staying downtown overnight, then flying out Monday morning after 8 am. We’ll keep watch on traffic during those arrival/departure windows. Added: SPD has tweeted details of specific downtown traffic effects during the President’s overnight stay.

Now, events from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide and our regular year-round calendar:

OLG FAIR-TRADE SALE: Catholic Relief Services Fair Trade Sale in the Our Lady of Guadalupe Gym, 9:30 am-1:30 pm:

This Christmas season, intentionally use your purchasing power to support Fair Trade efforts around the globe. (Today) OLG will be hosting a Catholic Relief Services Fair Trade Sale in the stage area of the gym from 9:30 am-1:30 pm. You’ll find fabulous Fair Trade gift items, including chocolate, Advent calendars, jewelry, holiday and home décor, silk scarves, bags, ornaments, instruments, and baskets. By buying Fair Trade, you support the efforts of skilled farmers and artisans who are working to break the cycle of poverty and build stronger communities. CRS and SERRV develop relationships with producers and assist them in becoming self-sufficient through training, fair wages, and market access. The 3rd grade will also be holding a Bake Sale to benefit WestSide Baby, their service project site for the year. WestSide Baby serves low-income families with clothing, diapers and supplies for children up to age 12. Finally, you can buy your holiday cards to support Noel House, a Catholic Community Services shelter for homeless women.

(OLG is at 35th/Myrtle)

OPEN HOUSE: Holiday Open House continues at JF Henry Cooking and Dining (WSB sponsor) in The Junction. 10 am-5 pm. Deals, demonstrations, treats, more – details here. (4445 California SW)

VOLUNTEER AT CAMP LONG: Your big chance to pitch in today – volunteer work at Camp Long, 9 am to 3 pm each day, to help with an Eagle Project, described as “restoring a staircase along the Glacier Climbing wall by removing the existing deteriorating stairs, grading the ground, and setting in new granite slabs. Additionally, we will clear vegetation to the right of the staircase for a trail to reduce the grade.” It’s day 2 of this work – Suzanne, who shares the announcement, sent this photo from Day 1:

Volunteers get food after the work party. (5200 35th SW)

NATIVES RISING STORYTELLING TOUR: At the Duwamish Longhouse, 1:30-3:30 pm, hear “stories that have not been told in public in more than a century,” featuring traditional storytellers Solana Rose Booth and Ravenspeaker. More info in our calendar listing. (4705 W. Marginal Way SW)

LIVE MUSIC AT C & P: Coffeehouse-concert veterans David Grixoni & Paul Luczak play C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 3-5 pm. (5612 California SW)

OPEN MIKE AT SKYLARK: 4 pm at Skylark Café and Club, all ages (signups start at 3). We have word a new youth band plans to debut:

India Spence has performed at Skylark multiple times, and now brings her brand-new band. See who else takes the stage. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

(Male harlequin duck, photographed by Mark Wangerin, who says they’re common here in winter)
First big weekend of holiday events! Please check our Holiday Guide and regular year-round Event Calendar for full details of everything happening today and beyond, but for starters, some highlights:

TRAFFIC REMINDER: SW Alaska is scheduled to be closed for construction/utility work between California and 42nd, until 10 tonight and again 7 am-10 pm Sunday. California and 42nd themselves will still go through. Added, after a trip to The Junction for a firsthand look: The sidewalk remains open on the north side of Alaska, so you can get to ALL the businesses there:

And Junction Plaza Park remains open/accessible too.

TURKEY/GROCERIES GIVEAWAY: Eastridge Church will give away hundreds of turkeys and bags of groceries starting at 9 am, no questions asked nor proof of need required. (39th/Oregon)

WEST SEATTLE BIKE CONNECTIONS CLEANUP: As noted here last night, West Seattle Bike Connections would be happy to have your company for their cleanup along the trail east of the low bridge, particularly focusing on the East Duwamish Waterway Fishing Pier. 9 am-noon, with those interested gathering for lunch at Chelan Café afterward.

DO SOMETHING GOOD FOR A DO-GOODER: 10 am-7 pm at West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor), it’s an all-day benefit for fabled fundraiser/inspirational leader Tracy Dart, whose own medical bills and living expenses have stacked up. WSR is donating a percentage of sales, hosting a silent auction, and more, as detailed on the Facebook event page. (California/Charlestown)

JF HENRY OPEN HOUSE: Holiday Open House at JF Henry Cooking and Dining (WSB sponsor) in The Junction. 10 am-6 pm today (and 10 am-5 pm Sunday). Deals, demonstrations, treats, more – details here. (4445 California SW)

‘SANTA AL’ SIGHTING: During the JF Henry open house, we just found out this morning, “Santa Al” will make a brief appearance, Santa is making a brief stop today, 11:30 am-12:30 pm, during which he says he plans to “announce his holiday schedule for this December.”

(When we get it, Santa Al’s schedule will be added to the WSB Holiday Guide, in the Santa Photos section.)

SLHS BAZAAR: Seattle Lutheran High School Holiday Bazaar, in the gym, 10 am-4 pm; details here. (4100 SW Genesee)

FOOD DRIVE @ TRUE VALUE OPEN HOUSE: Holiday Open House and Food Drive at Junction True Value, 10 am-2 pm, featuring a food drive for the West Seattle Food Bank – bring nonperishable food to fill the bin! (4747 44th SW)

OPEN HOUSE AT CAPERS: Holiday Open House and Susan Goodwin Trunk Show at CAPERS in The Junction, 10 am-5 pm. (4525 California SW)

OPEN HOUSE AT NW ART/FRAME: Holiday Open House at Northwest Art & Frame in The Junction. 10 am-5:30 pm. (4733 California SW)

HANUKKAH TASTING EVENT: Metropolitan Market-Admiral (WSB sponsor) presents a tasting of food/beverages for you to consider for upcoming Hanukkah celebrations, 11 am-2 pm. (41st/Admiral/42nd)

THREAD OVER HEALS CLOTHING DRIVE: Clean out your closet and donate to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association! Event noon-3 pm at Alki Bathhouse is much more than a dropoff – our calendar listing has all the details. (60th/Alki)

COLLEGE ADMISSION WORKSHOP: 12th grader in the house? (We can relate.) Get help with college applications at Southwest Library, 1-6 pm. (35th/Henderson)

ROWHOUSE OPEN HOUSE: The Morgan 5.1 rowhouse townhomes have their first open house this afternoon, with pizza and coffee for attendees. Five-star Built Green, per broker Paul Poirier of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Northwest Real Estate (WSB sponsor). 1-4 pm. (California/Myrtle)

FALL WINE RELEASE: Pre-Thanksgiving wine tasting and sale, Northwest Wine Academy at South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor), 2-7 pm. (6000 16th SW, north side of SSCC campus)

TOY LIBRARY: The second of two organizational meetings for a possible West Seattle Toy Library happens 3-4 pm at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor). If you’re interested but can’t make the meeting, check the discussion in comments following the story we published with the original announcement. (5612 California SW)

BEER CHURCH TURKEY BOWL: Beer Church‘s annual Turkey Bowl, 6-9 pm at West Seattle Bowl. Even if you’re not signed up to bowl, you’re invited to come by and bring a donation for the West Seattle Food Bank, try the Beer Church-branded ales, buy a raffle ticket, have a good time! (39th/Oregon)

That’s a frozen-solid birdbath in North Delridge, shared by Flickr member “old desolate” via the WSB Flickr group, and shared here as a reminder to tend to any birdbath(s) YOU have so the birds aren’t frozen out of a drinking/bathing water supply! Meantime, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and Holiday Events/Info Guide, here are highlights for today/tonight:

WINE RELEASE AT SSCC: Looking for Thanksgiving wine? 2-7 pm at the Northwest Wine Academy at South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor), it’s the fall release/tasting; details here. (6000 16th SW)

SINGLES 55+: The monthly Circle of Singles no-host gathering for singles 55 and up happens starting at 5 pm at Duos Lounge in Luna Park; details here. (2940 Avalon Way)

SHOP LATE AT CLICK! It’s another Shop Late Thursday in The Junction and Click! Design That Fits (WSB sponsor) has something special planned:

Click! is hosting a “Meet the Designer” event and sale with Gwen Weinberg of Three by Three Seattle from 6 to 9 pm. Three by Three Seattle makes modern solutions to your modern organizational needs. Their product range includes Magnetic and Dry-Erase items that store keys and phones, sort mail, and calendar your to-do lists all with a clean, contemporary look. Gwen Weinberg is the lead designer and will be on hand to talk about her approach to product design and development. There will be free magnet giveaways for the first 20 people, and all Three by Three products will be 20% off during the event! See examples on the Click! website and threebythree.com

BEER CHURCH EVENT AT BEVERIDGE PLACE: Three ales brewed with the participation of West Seattle’s Beer Church are available tonight at Beveridge Place Pub starting at 6 pm, as a fundraiser to fight Crohn’s disease. (6419 California SW)

DESIGN REVIEW DOUBLEHEADER: Two projects both of high interest to their respective neighborhoods come before the Southwest Design Review Board tonight, and as always, each will have a round of public comment.

At 6:30 pm, 3210 California SW (the rendering above is from our recent preview; here’s the official design packet). Then at 8 pm …

… it’s 3078 SW Avalon Way (the rendering above is from the official design packet). Both reviews are at the Senior Center of West Seattle. (California/Oregon)

LAFAYETTE PTA AND TECHNOLOGY PRESENTATION: During tonight’s general meeting of the Lafayette Elementary PTA at 6:30 pm, there’ll be a presentation about how families can help kids navigate technology (7 pm) – details in our calendar listing. (California/Lander)

WEST SEATTLE TOY LIBRARY? Earlier this week, we published this story about a local woman wondering if West Seattleites are interested in organizing one. Tonight’s the first of two meetings at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7 pm. (5612 California SW)

(Before the leaves fell: Delridge Skatepark photo by Laura Goodrich, shared via the WSB Flickr group)
From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and the just-launched Holiday Guide (new events/info added daily, and please remember to send us yours!):

LINCOLN PARK WORK PARTY: Time to spare on a weekday? Perfect! EarthCorps has a work party 10 am-2 pm today – details in our calendar listing.

ENTREPRENEUR/CO-WORKING MEETUP: Noon today at West Seattle Office Junction – details in our calendar listing. (5230 California SW)

SPECIAL DONATION DROPOFF FOR WEST SEATTLE FOOD BANK: Want to help out the West Seattle Food Bank for Thanksgiving but don’t have time to get TO the food bank? 4-7 pm today in The Junction, WS Food Bank reps will be at Easy Street Records, hoping to collect hundreds of small (10-pound-ish) frozen turkeys – you can even bring one (or more) without getting out of your vehicle. Or, donate cash or a check. Here’s our original announcement about this. (California/Alaska)

SCHOOL BOARD VOTES ON BOUNDARIES (ETC.): 4:15 pm is the official start of tonight’s Seattle School Board meeting, including votes on the “Growth Boundaries” and capacity-management measures, but the key votes aren’t until 6 pm. Here’s the full agenda, including the list of people signed up to speak starting at 5 pm; the final version of the boundary maps are here; the plan for Arbor Heights to be housed at Boren with STEM during its two years of new-school construction is here (that’s also the document with the plan for EC Hughes, once vacated in 2015, to revert to a building for emergency/interim use). The School Board meets at district HQ in SODO. (3rd/Lander)

DELRIDGE DISTRICT COUNCIL: Reps from community councils and other key organizations around eastern West Seattle meet tonight at 7 pm, Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, to discuss issues and receive briefings including one on the Barton Combined Sewer Overflow project. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

(Luna/Anchor Park, photographed last weekend by Doug Branch, shared via WSB Flickr group)
As is often the case with Tuesdays, another big day/night to get involved in your community! From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and newly launched Holiday Events and Info Guide – a few highlights:

BAZAAR: Under way until 1 pm, the “mini-Harvest Festival” bazaar at Senior Center of West Seattle; details in our calendar listing. (California/Oregon)

QUESTIONS ABOUT METRO CUTS? Just found out about this one via a retweet from South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor), where Metro reps will be on hand at midday today:

Learn about #KCMetroCuts at @SouthSeattleCC 11am-2pm today. http://t.co/hzh9a0d778

— King County Metro (@kcmetrobus) November 19, 2013

VOLUNTEER NIGHT AT WESTSIDE BABY: Can you help? 6-9 pm; details in our calendar listing. (10027 14th SW)

GREENWAY OPEN HOUSE: 5:30-7:30 pm, get info and/or ask questions about the South Delridge/Highland Park greenway plan-in-progress. Open house @ Salvation Army. (9050 16th SW)

WEST SEATTLE CRIME PREVENTION COUNCIL: Speaking of traffic/pedestrian/bicycling/etc. neighborhood safety, Jim Curtin from SDOT is the scheduled guest at tonight’s monthly meeting. Crime trends and Q/A with Seattle Police reps too, as always. 7 pm, Southwest Precinct. (Delridge/Webster)

COMMUNITY MEETING FOR ‘NO PARKING’ DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL: 6:30 pm at Hope Lutheran Church is the community-requested meeting with city planners regarding 4535 44th SW, proposed for 36 units and no parking. This is separate from the Design Review process, which doesn’t look at traffic and other environmental effects. Details in our calendar listing. (42nd/Oregon)

ZZ WARD LIVE: The next in-store at Easy Street Records is ZZ Ward, tonight at 7 pm. (California/Alaska)

BELLY DANCING AT SKYLARK: Skylark Café and Club‘s monthly Alauda showcase is at 7 pm tonight. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

Calendar items are running light for today/tonight, but here are three highlights:

EVENING BOOK GROUP: This month, the Southwest Branch Library Evening Book Group is reading Northwest-set “The Living” by Annie Dillard. All welcome, 6:45 pm. (35th/Henderson)

DEVELOPMENT ALTERNATIVES: 6:45 pm at Emeritus-West Seattle (WSB sponsor), advocacy group Getting It Right for West Seattle presents unofficial “alternative designs” it commissioned from an architecture professor for the 4755 Fauntleroy Way site (separate from the design its owners have already taken through the Design Review Board and Design Commission). Public is welcome. (4611 35th SW)

SPORTS TRIVIA: Phillip at Talarico’s is trying it again, 3 rounds of sports trivia starting at 8 pm during Monday Night Football – $2/person, cash prizes, including “$100 if anyone can get all the questions right.” (4718 California SW)

(Sanderling in the surf at Alki, by Danny McMillin, shared via the WSB Flickr group)

Happy Sunday! Highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
KIERKEGAARD BICENTENNIAL AT FLCWS: First Lutheran Church of West Seattle and its pastor Rev. Ron Marshall celebrate Danish theologian/philosopher (and more) Søren Kierkegaard every November, but this year is special, marking the 200th anniversary of Kierkegaard’s birth. Today, the church has a slate of commemorative events starting at 9 am, featured on this page of its website and in our calendar, where you’ll see the scheduled times for music, a statue dedication, folk dancing, more. (4105 California SW)

NORTH DELRIDGE CLEANUP: 10 am-noon, join the North Delridge Neighborhood Council‘s cleanup of the bike path near Skylark Café and Club, which is full of fallen leaves. Meet at Skylark. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

HOLIDAYS AT WEST SEATTLE FARMERS MARKET: 10 am-2 pm, it’s the weekly West Seattle Farmers’ Market, now starting to get into the holiday mood. (44th/Alaska)

BUY PANCAKE BREAKFAST TICKETS FROM THE KIWANIS: On the east side of the Farmers’ Market, near the back of KeyBank, look for the Kiwanis Club of West Seattle – whose members will be happy to sell you advance tickets to their annual Pancake Breakfast, coming up 7-11 am December 7th (details here).

FAUNTLEROY FINE ART AND HOLIDAY GIFT SALE CONCLUDES: 11 am-2 pm is your last chance to shop the annual event at the Fauntleroy Church Fellowship Hall, with 16 local artists/crafters/artisans showing and selling their creations. (9140 California SW)

SEAHAWKS SALUTE ARMED FORCES Today’s 1:25 pm Seahawks-Vikings game at CenturyLink Field is the annual tribute to the U.S. Armed Forces. West Seattle native Mycle Wastman sings the National Anthem. We’ve checked the team’s official preview of the tribute and did NOT see any flyby plan listed, but if you do happen to see military aircraft in the area about that time – you are hereby forewarned.

FREE ORGAN CONCERT: Sunday afternoon music at Hope Lutheran Church, 2 pm, details here – no admission charge! (42nd/Oregon)

WEST SEATTLE COOKING CLUB: Today’s theme for the West Seattle Cooking Club – tofu, tempeh, meat substitutes. Make a recipe with one or more of those ingredients and bring it to the 3 pm meeting at Beveridge Place Pub. (6419 California SW)

PHILIPPINES TYPHOON RELIEF CONCERT/SERVICE As previewed here earlier this week, Holy Rosary Catholic Church is hosting a concert and service at which a free-will donation will be taken for typhoon relief in The Philippines; details in our calendar listing. 7:30 pm. (42nd/Genesee)

… and there’s more for today, tonight, and days/weeks/months ahead, on the calendar!

(Barrow’s Goldeneyes at Jack Block Park, photographed by Mark Wangerin)
So much to see and do today/tonight – even just in the highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (follow the link to see the full list of what’s up today):

BIKE TRAIL CLEANUP: 9-11 am this morning, Dave from Swedish Automotive (WSB sponsor) and volunteers will finish what was started during the windstorm two weeks ago today. Details in our preview. Look for the “old Swedish yellow van” near Chelan Café. (Chelan/Spokane)

JUNCTION CLEANUP: René from the Junction Neighborhood Organization invites neighbors to join the group’s second West Seattle Junction cleanup, 9 am-noon today, bring your own gloves (but everything else is provided) and dress warmly. They’ll remove leaves from, and stencil, storm drains as well as picking up litter. Meet at Junction Plaza Park. (NW corner of 42nd/Alaska)

FAUNTLEROY SCHOOLHOUSE’S FIRST-EVER BAZAAR: 9 am-5 pm, the first holiday bazaar at the historic Fauntleroy Schoolhouse – details here. Also part of it, a donation drive for the West Seattle Food Bank – bring five nonperishable food items or $5 for a benefit raffle. (9131 California SW)

FAUNTLEROY FINE ART AND GIFT SALE: Right across the street from the schoolhouse, 10 am-4 pm at the Fauntleroy Church Fellowship Hall, check out the 16 local artists/crafters/artisans who are showing and selling their creations, from woodblock prints to baby clothes to metal yard art to jewelry, and more. Here’s our story from last night. (9140 California SW)

GRACE CHURCH BAZAAR: 9 am-4 pm, come to Grace Church for even more holiday shopping! (10323 28th SW)

THE COVE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 9:30 am-11 am, The Cove School has an open house, featuring programs including preschool and preK – details here.

EXPLORER WEST MIDDLE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 10-11:30 am, come explore Explorer West Middle School (WSB sponsor):

Try out Explorer West Middle School today at 10 am. Our Open House event is a great way for prospective parents and students to tour the campus and learn about the school from students, faculty, and parents. In addition, there will be student acting performances (Drama) and debates on a variety of topics (History). Also, visitors can participate in a hands-on art project in the art studio. Welcome! An additional Open House will be held on Tuesday, December 10th, 6:30-8 pm.

(10015 28th SW)

LONGFELLOW CREEK WATERSHED WALK: You’ve seen the salmon – now see the creek and its watershed during this 10 am-noon hike with Sustainable West Seattle – details here. (Meet at 26th/Yancy)

LOUIE FOXX’S MAGIC SHOW: Another fun show for the whole family, with Louie Foxx at High Point Community Center, 10:30 am – details here. (6920 34th SW)

MIDDLE-SCHOOLER READING MARATHON: As previewed here, today’s the day that middle schoolers (from any school, including homeschooled/unschooled) are welcome to join in the Reading Marathon at Southwest Branch Library, 11 am-5 pm, to read for up to six hours – with a prize for each hour of reading, and a grand prize for all six! (35th/Henderson)

KAREN KONZUK TRUNK SHOW: Click! Design That Fits (WSB sponsor) hosts a trunk show by Karen Konzuk, 11 am-5 pm.

TELL YOUR LANDING STORY: As previewed here earlier this week, the Southwest Seattle Historical Society would love to see you at the Log House Museum this afternoon, 2-4 pm, to tell your “landing story,” to be recorded by a volunteer videographer, in honor of this week’s anniversary of the Denny Party landing on Alki. (61st/Stevens)

ALKI ELEMENTARY BENEFIT: 5:30 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy, it’s the Alki Elementary Gold Rush Auction and Dinner. Online ticket sales are over, says the website, but if you’re going, pre-browse auction items here. (9131 California SW)

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRAS BENEFIT: “The Show Must Go On” is the theme for the annual West Seattle Community Orchestras benefit, 5:30 pm at Highland Park Improvement Club, details here. (12th/Holden)

LU’AU AT YOUNGSTOWN: It’s an authentic lu’au to benefit youth programming via Totem Star, tonight at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, 6 pm – details in our calendar listing. (4408 Delridge Way SW)

(Photo by Machel Spence)
Feeling sluggish? Hang on – the weekend’s on the way! But first, highlights for today/tonight …

WEST SEATTLE GARDEN CLUB: This month’s meeting is under way (10 am-2 pm) at Daystar, but there are plenty of opportunities to drop in while it’s in progress – such as the 1 pm presentation about orchids. Details in our calendar listing. (2615 SW Barton)

WHITE CENTER LIBRARY GUILD BAZAAR/BOOK SALE: 11 am-4 pm today (and tomorrow) – details in our calendar listing. (11220 16th SW)

METROPOLITAN MARKET TASTING: Planning your Thanksgiving menu? Thinking someone else should do the cooking? The Metropolitan Market (WSB sponsor) fully cooked feast can be sampled during an in-store event 4-7 pm today.

FAUNTLEROY FINE ART AND HOLIDAY GIFT SHOW: 16 local artists and artisans are showing and selling creations at the annual Fauntleroy Fine Art and Holiday Gift Show, which begins with a 5-8 pm session tonight (and continues tomorrow as well as a few final hours Sunday). It’s at Fauntleroy Church, whose website has the list of participants. (9140 California SW)

CHIEF SEALTH ‘PASSPORT TO EXCELLENCE’: Tonight is the fall fundraiser for various programs at Chief Sealth International High School, 6 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy. Going? Preview auction items here. (9131 California SW)

THOSE DARLINS: Easy Street Records presents a free in-store concert at 6 pm by Those Darlins. (Alaska/California)

HELPLINE GALA: The West Seattle Helpline‘s annual Neighbors Helping Neighbors fundraising auction/dinner is at 6:30 pm, Duwamish Longhouse. If you don’t have a ticket, check with WS Helpline to see if they have any seats left. (4705 W. Marginal Way SW)

MAGIC, MUSIC, AND DANCE: Community event presented by the Schmitz Park Elementary PTA, but it’s at West Seattle High School, 6:30 pm, free/donations accepted. Details here. (3000 California SW)

FREE MOVIE AT HPIC: It’s free movie night at Highland Park Improvement Club – go here for details of this month’s event. Doors open at 6:30, movie at 7. BYO chair/etc. (12th/Holden)

THE CASTAWAYS AT C & P: Ukulele band – and NO, that does NOT mean Hawaiian music! See/hear for yourself tonight at C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

More nightlife, among other things, on our calendar – browse ahead hours, days, weeks, months (the “next page” link is toward the TOP of the list on each page) – just go here.

In our photo from Wednesday afternoon is one of the SDOT crews planting 100 trees from Morgan Junction to Fauntleroy; we found them on California, south of Myrtle. Their work continues today. As for what else is up today/tonight, six highlights ahead from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

CARMILIA’S ANNIVERSARY PARTY: Proprietor Linda Sabee‘s fashion shop in The Junction is celebrating its 11th birthday today – drop in 4 pm-9 pm for champagne and other revelry. (4528 California SW)

‘EXPERIENCE MIDDLE SCHOOL NIGHT’ AT WESTSIDE SCHOOL: 6-7:30 pm tonight. From the official announcement:

Westside School will be hosting an interactive Middle School Open House tonight. Students will participate in hands-on activities throughout the school and parents will have an opportunity to join an information session with school administrators. The Middle School at Westside is now accepting applications for students entering grades 5-8.

Westside School (a longtime WSB sponsor) is at 7740 34th SW.

WEST SEATTLE ART WALK: 6-9 pm, it’s the November edition – not just a fab time to see art, but also to do early holiday shopping. You can preview venues and artists on the official West Seattle Art Walk site; here’s the venue list/map:

Among this month’s featured artists: Frances Smersh, co-proprietor of Click! Design That Fits (longtime WSB sponsor), is known for her jewelry, but tonight is showing paintings; at Twilight Gallery and Boutique, Willow and The Embers perform at 7 pm, while the exhibit is Holiday Miniature Art.

SOUTH PARK BRIDGE: Want to get the latest on the new bridge’s progress, months before completion? This isn’t a formal public meeting, just a fun “slideshow” presentation at Napoli’s Pizzeria, 6 pm. (14th/Cloverdale, South Park)

‘DINGO’ FUNDRAISER AT WSHS: Dessert plus bingo equals “Dingo”! West Seattle High School junior-class fundraiser, 6:30-8:30 pm (“it’s OK if you’re late,” say organizers), details in our calendar listing. (3000 California SW)

ARBOR HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY PTA: Big meeting tonight, 6:30-8 pm – from the official announcement:

Special Guests: Marty McLaren (West Seattle School Board Director) & Israel Vela (Executive Director of Schools, SW Region) will be in attendance to answer questions about how boundary changes will effect Arbor Heights and the transition plan to an interim site during construction of our new school.

Location: Arbor Heights Cafeteria
***Free childcare is provided in the library**

Arbor Heights Elementary is at 37th/104th.

(Hummingbird at sunrise, Mount Rainier in the distance: photo from Genesee Hill this week, by Elaine Thompson)
A few of your options for today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

DINE-OUT BENEFIT AT ENDOLYNE JOE’S: As noted in our school-fundraiser update earlier this morning, until 10 pm tonight, Endolyne Joe’s (WSB sponsor) in Fauntleroy is donating part of its food proceeds to Gatewood Elementary, one of several dine-out benefits Endolyne does each year. (9261 45th SW)

‘LION KING’: Arbor Heights Elementary‘s student performance (and bake sale!) is at 6:30 pm tonight. (37th/104th)

HARBOR SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: As noted here last week, West Seattle families have a special invitation to visit Vashon Island for tonight’s open house at Harbor School (WSB sponsor), a nonprofit independent school serving grades 4-8. See more info in our calendar listing, and RSVP to see if seats are still available on their special shuttle to/from the ferry dock. (15920 Vashon Highway SW)

CO-EXISTING WITH COYOTES: For the first time in years, local wildlife experts invite you to a briefing/Q-A session in West Seattle. If you are curious and/or concerned about coyotes, don’t just wait for our next coyote update (all our coverage, by the way, is archived here, newest-to-oldest) – come to Camp Long Environmental Learning Center tonight, 7-8:30 pm. (5200 35th SW)

34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS: 7 pm tonight at The Hall at Fauntleroy, first post-election meeting; see the agenda here. (9131 California SW)

As always, you’ll see even more by going directly to our calendar!

Busy night for meetings. Ready to get involved in your neighborhood, if you’re not already? From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, our first group of listings features who’s meeting tonight – public welcome, and, the groups will tell you, very much appreciated. These are all-volunteer groups led by your neighbors, and the more people involved, the stronger they are and the more they can do):

HIGH POINT NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION: 6 pm, monthly meeting, Neighborhood House’s High Point Center. (6400 Sylvan Way)

WEST SEATTLE TRANSPORTATION COALITION: 6:30 pm, Neighborhood House’s High Point Center. See the agenda here. (6400 Sylvan Way)

JUNCTION NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATION: 6:30 pm, Senior Center of West Seattle. (California/Oregon)

ADMIRAL NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION: 7 pm, lower-level meeting room on south side of Admiral Congregational Church. (California/Hill)

FAUNTLEROY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION: 7 pm, conference room at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse. (9131 California SW)

Also happening tonight:

VOLUNTEER AT WESTSIDE BABY: 6-9 pm Tuesday nights, you are invited to come help WestSide Baby help thousands of local babies, children, and their families! Details here.

STORYTELLING/OPEN MIKE AT CHACO CANYON: 6 pm, details in our calendar listing. (3770 SW Alaska)

STUDENT STORYTELLERS: 6:30 pm at Dubsea Coffee in Greenbridge, students from on-the-rise White Center Heights Elementary School make their storytelling debut. (9910 8th SW)

DENNY INTERNATIONAL MIDDLE SCHOOL PTSA: 7 pm, with a featured presentation on how to help your middle-schooler get ready for success in high school; more info in the calendar listing. (2601 SW Kenyon)

SOLD-OUT ORCA TALK: Just a note in case you were hoping to get a ticket at the door – The Whale Trail‘s Orca Talk at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor) tonight is sold out. (If you don’t already have a ticket, watch TWT’s site for video to follow.)

Even MORE of what’s up today/tonight can be found on our calendar.

(Hawk and crow in Lincoln Park, photographed recently by Trileigh Tucker)

ROXHILL BOG: Get over to the bog on the south side of Roxhill Park right now (Sunday morning) and join the work party; details in our calendar.

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm as always, Sundays year-round – if you haven’t been lately, check out the ever-expanding variety. (44th/Alaska)

WEST SEATTLE ULTIMATE FAMILY FRISBEE: On the playfield at High Point, 11 am, just show up. (31st/Myrtle)

‘MEDICINE SONGS FROM THE TIME OF CHIEF SEATTLE’: Join native storyteller Johnny Moses at the Duwamish Longhouse, 1 pm; details in our calendar listing. (4705 West Marginal Way SW)

WEST SEATTLE BOARD GAMES: Drop by the meetup 1-7 pm at Uptown Espresso in The Junction for “Intro to Euro Games”; details in our calendar listing. (Edmunds/Erskine/California)

ART PICKUP AT SOUTHWEST LIBRARY: The Community Art Showcase at Southwest Branch Library has ended and artists who participated are reminded to pick up their art today or Tuesday (the libraries are closed tomorrow for Veterans Day). And the library says THANK YOU!

The collage above is from the reception last weekend. (35th/Henderson)

THREE SHORT PLAYS ABOUT SHAKESPEARE: Second and final presentation of three 1-acts by the Seattle Lutheran High School Drama Club, 2:30 pm in Menashe Gym on campus; details in our calendar listing. (4100 SW Genesee)

FREE CONCERT: Ladies Musical Club performs vocal and piano music at the West Seattle (Admiral) Branch Library, 3 pm, more info here. (2306 42nd SW)

VETERANS DAY DINNER: 5-8 pm, free gourmet Italian dinner for those who have served or are serving – veterans, active duty, retired, National Guard, reserve, as noted on the official flyer. West Seattle Veterans’ Center in the historic American Legion Post 160. (3618 SW Alaska)

BINGO BENEFIT FOR WEST SEATTLE FOOD BANK: “Booze, Balls, and Bingo” at the Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 5:30-7:30 tonight, is more than a bawdy round of drag bingo – it’s a benefit for the WS Food Bank, which is now more in need of your help than ever, with federal cuts to food stamps. Bring money, bring non-perishable food donations, have fun. (6451 California SW)

(Looking across Elliott Bay to the snowy Cascades behind downtown; photo by Carolyn Newman)
Happy Saturday! Highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar follow, but be sure to also check the calendar itself for the full list of options:

HOLIDAY BAZAAR AT HPIC: Support community arts/crafts vendors – everything is local! – during the 10 am-3 pm bazaar at Highland Park Improvement Club. (12th/Holden)

HOLIDAY BAZAAR AT THE MOUNT: 10 am-4 pm, it’s the second and final day of the fall bazaar at Providence Mount St. Vincent, with holiday decorations as well as potential gifts, plus a big bake sale! More in our calendar listing. (4831 35th SW)

HOLIDAY BAZAAR AT SHOREWOOD ELEMENTARY: 10 am-4 pm, another big bazaar, this time just south of West Seattle – details in the calendar listing. (2725 SW 116th)

DELRIDGE GROCERY CANVASSING: Volunteers are gathering at 10 am at Delridge’s Daily Dose coffee shop to head out into the neighborhood to talk to people about the future co-op grocery store – and invite you to join them. Details here. (Delridge/Brandon)

HIGH-SCHOOL PLAYOFFS: Games today include West Seattle High School volleyball vs. Blanchet at Chief Sealth International High School (update: 1 pm), WSHS soccer vs. Liberty High School at LHS in Renton at 3 pm, Chief Sealth International High School football in Gig Harbor at 7 pm. (Anybody else? Please let us know – editor@westseattleblog.com – thanks!)

SWSHS GALA LUNCHEON/LOG HOUSE MUSEUM CLOSED: Today is the big day for the Southwest Seattle Historical Society Gala Luncheon/Silent Auction (for which WSB is a media sponsor) at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor), 11:30 am, details on the SWSHS website; this also means the Log House Museum is closed today because the big event takes a lot of volunteer power – go see the LHM tomorrow and other Thursdays-Sundays, noon-4 pm. (61st/Stevens)

FRIENDS OF MORGAN JUNCTION PARKS: The park’s Fall Renovation Work Party is this afternoon, 2-4 pm – Barry White from FoMJP says, “We’ll have two yards of mulch to apply to the beds and some new plants to put in the ground. Tools will be provided. Join us for all or part of the event.” The park is on California SW just north of Fauntleroy.

GREEN SPACE COALITION: As previewed here last night, the West Seattle Green Space Coalition invites you to its meeting at 3 pm at High Point Library for an update on the City Light ex-substations’ future and how to work toward more green space even as development in our area intensifies. (35th/Raymond)

OWLING AT LINCOLN PARK: West Seattle naturalist Stewart Wechsler leads a journey through the park, 7-9 pm – details in our calendar listing, including how to check if it’s still on, should the weather worsen.

CONCERT BENEFITING WEST SEATTLE VETERANS’ CENTER: At Pershing Hall, inside American Legion Post 160 (also home to the WSVC), Rainier Dust Squad and Hetch Hetchy perform tonight at 8 pm, with proceeds benefiting the facility’s renovations/programs. Details in our calendar listing. (3618 SW Alaska)

NOTE – FRATELLIS CANCELED: A band member is ailing so tonight’s in-store at Easy Street Records is NOT happening.

(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)