King County’s ballot-dropoff-van team is waiting for you (and your ballot) along the West Seattle Stadium driveway – we photographed them minutes ago. Election Day tops our highlights for today/tonight from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

ELECTION DAY: Tonight’s the deadline to get your ballots in for the Seattle Public Schools levies, as noted here last night. Until the voting deadline at 8 pm, you’ll find the ballot-dropoff van on the West Seattle Stadium driveway (east side of 35th, south of Avalon Way).

Also:

FIND OUT ABOUT HEALTH SERVICES AT THE KENNEY: An open house offers you the chance to learn about these services offered at The Kenney (WSB sponsor), 7125 Fauntleroy Way SW, 2:30-4:30 pm; details in the calendar listing.

POSTSEASON BASKETBALL: The West Seattle High School girls team plays its next postseason game at 3 pm today vs. Mercer Island at the Chief Sealth International High School gym (2600 SW Thistle).

NEIGHBORHOOD MATCHING FUND WORKSHOP: Thinking of applying for one of these city matching-fund grants? This workshop can help. 6 pm at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW) – details here.

GENESEE HILL SCHOOL DESIGN: From the Genesee-Schmitz Neighborhood Council:

You are invited to share your thoughts on the current preferred design alternative for the new Genesee Hill School at our meeting (tonight). The meeting will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the West Seattle Christian Church library, 4400 42nd Avenue SW.

The new school is one of the projects to be funded by the 2nd levy on today’s ballot, by the way.

FAUNTLEROY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION: The public is welcome at tonight’s monthly board meeting, 7 pm at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse (9131 California SW). From FCA’s e-mail list:

This month’s agenda includes a conversation with members of the new Alliance for Lincoln Park Nature, street trees on Fauntleroy Way across from Lincoln Park, more planning for a Lincoln Park celebration, Barton Street substation update, Fauntleroy Food Fest planning update, Fauntleroy Nights at ArtsWest, and the FCA survey.

ADMIRAL NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION: You’re welcome at this monthly meeting too, 7 pm at Admiral Congregational Church (lower-level meeting room, California/Hill). Tonight’s agenda includes ANA’s pursuit of nonprofit status and upcoming events including a potential mayoral walking tour of The Admiral District.
WEST SEATTLE SEE DOGS: Find out tonight what it takes to raise a future guide dog!

They Call It Puppy Love, and you’ll fall in love when you sign up to be a puppy raiser with Guide Dogs For The Blind. Adult and youth puppy raisers are needed who are willing to teach obedience and social skills. Training and support provided. Come join us tonight at The Kenney, 7125 Fauntleroy Way SW, at 7 pm. Call Ruth Oldham at 206-953-0268 for additional information.

NIGHTLIFE! Lots of it, and do note that it’s Fat Tuesday … find all the listings for live music, trivia, and more, on the calendar.

(Sunday Beach Drive photo by David Hutchinson)
It was a big weekend – take time (if you can) to scroll back down the home page and check out the big stories. But meantime, of course, we keep looking ahead. Like now. For today/tonight, 5 highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

K-5 STEM TOUR THIS AFTERNOON: Second-to-last tour this season for West Seattle’s newest elementary school, 1 pm, 5950 Delridge Way SW.

WEST SEATTLE COOKING CLUB HEADS SOUTH – ingredient-wise, anyway. 3 pm meeting at Beveridge Place Pub today (6413 California SW), and “Southern” is the theme. Details in the calendar listing.

TICKETS FOR SCHOOL-BENEFIT TESLA CAR RAFFLE: 4-7 pm today at West Seattle’s PCC Natural Market (WSB sponsor; California/Stevens), you’ll see the Tesla electric car that’s the subject of a unique school-fundraising raffle for which tickets will be sold – A $100 ticket gets you a chance at the car, on behalf of Garfield High School (not in West Seattle but educating more than a few WS teens), as explained in the announcement we published last night (to which we’ve added some extra details from the GHS PTSA).

NORTH DELRIDGE NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL: 6:30 pm, Delridge Library (Delridge/Brandon), with what you might call a love-ly theme (see here).

FLAT EARTH SOCIETY AT WEST 5: DJs play … records! Yes, actual records. Tonight, Jody McKane spins ’em at 9 pm at West 5 at 4539 California SW – wish them happy belated 10th birthday (here’s our coverage of last night’s party)!.

More on the calendar!

(Eagle #2 “not impressed”? Photo by Danny McMillin, via WSB Flickr group)
10 highlights from the lineup for today/tonight, via the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

HIAWATHA COMMUNITY CENTER PANCAKE BREAKFAST: Have a great breakfast today and help raise money to help make sure Hiawatha programs can be afforded by all. 8 am-noon at Hiawatha Community Center (2700 California SW); details in our calendar listing.

LITTLE PILGRIM OPEN HOUSE: Little Pilgrim Preschool at Fauntleroy Church is holding an open house today, 11 am-1:30 pm (9140 California SW); details here.

WESTSIDE BABY TEA: Today’s the day for the biggest annual event benefiting the local nonprofit serving tens of thousands of kids (and their families) each year, 2 pm @ the airport Hilton Conference Center – details on the WS Baby website.

BATTLE OF THE BAGGERS: Andrew Borracchini from Metropolitan Market (WSB sponsor) in Admiral is representing our state again this year in the Best Bagger competition at the National Grocers Association’s convention in Las Vegas, and the event is set to start around 2:45 pm today – with a live stream planned, here.

HAVE YOU MET ‘SHIRLEY’ YET? Just a few more chances to meet “Shirley Valentine,” as explained on the ArtsWest (WSB sponsor) website, a woman in her 40s, trying to get out of a rut, heading out on a journey of self-discovery. 3 pm matinee. (4711 California SW)

FREE CHORAL CONCERT: More than 100 singers form the Northwest University Choralons, and you can hear them sing tonight at Westwood Christian Assembly (9252 16th SW), 6 pm – details here.

SONGWRITERS IN SEATTLE: They’re performing an all-ages show, free, at 7 pm at Skylark Café and Club (3803 Delridge Way SW).

‘SACRED GROUND’: St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church (California/Hanford) is launching a new type of worship service at 7:30 pm on Sunday evenings, “a moment of contemplation with sacred music in a sacred place, a chance to connect with the divine,” starting tonight. Details in the calendar listing.

GRAMMY AWARDS: Root for West Seattleite David Miles Huber, up for a third time in the Best Surround Sound Album category. And you can do it while watching the Grammys on the big screen at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor; 6451 California SW).

WEST 5 CELEBRATES 10 … years, that is, with a big anniversary bash tonight, featuring music by the Yada Yada Blues Band and more, 8 pm, as previewed in our Friday report, and as featured in this Facebook event page.

Even more happening today/tonight in West Seattle … full list (and the days/weeks/months ahead), here!

(Photo by Don Brubeck)
Long list of things you can do today – and there’s even more on the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, beyond these highlights:

TRAFFIC ALERT, ALL WEEKEND: Yet another reminder that the Delridge/Henderson section is completely closed this weekend so that the Delridge repaving project work can focus there. Here’s the detour map.

OPEN HOUSES: Community School of West Seattle (9450 22nd SW) is adding a fourth preschool class this year and has room – 10 am-2 pm open house today (parents/guardians only) – and at the same time, same location, the new K-5 Taproot School is having an open house, too.

SALAMANDERS, BEETLES, SPIDERS: Nature Walk at Camp Long, 10:30 am, with West Seattle naturalist Stewart Wechsler. Details on his website.

VOLUNTEER TRAINING AT THE LOG HOUSE MUSEUM: Show up at 11 am today (61st/Stevens) and find out how to get involved with the Southwest Seattle Historical Society. (Note followup event at 1 pm below …)

FIRE STATION OPEN HOUSES: As part of Neighbor Appreciation Day, three West Seattle fire stations are having open houses 11 am-1 pm – 11 (Highland Park), 32 (Triangle), 37 (Sunrise Heights). Details here.

VALENTINE’S DAY STORYTIME … at Barnes and Noble/Westwood Village, 11 am: “We’ll be reading ‘The Perfect Hug,’ as well as two other holiday-themed stories. There will be treats and crafts, as well!”

SIGN UP FOR THE FLOAT DODGER 5K: This pre-West Seattle Grand Parade run is on for its second year; sign up and celebrate (approaching) summer noon-4 pm today at West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor; California/Charlestown).

CHILI AND CORNBREAD AT THE LOG HOUSE MUSEUM: Starting at 1 pm, come enjoy free chili and cornbread as part of Neighbor Appreciation Day (61st/Stevens).

FREE PUBLIC SWIM: Another Neighbor Appreciation Day event – free swim at Southwest Pool (2801 SW Thistle), 1-2 pm.

TALK ABOUT AFFORDABLE CHILD CARE: 2-4 pm at Delridge Library – full details in the calendar listing.

POP-UP ART GALLERY … at the Technology Access Foundation‘s Bethaday Learning Space in White Center’s Lakewood Park, 4-8 pm. Artists include Village Green Perennial Nursery owner Vera Johnson; family activities in addition to the art show/sales – full details in the calendar listing. (605 SW 108th)

SOUL JAMBALAYA: Big slate of music – pros and students, multiple genres – at Chief Sealth International High School (2600 SW Thistle), 7 pm, free but donations will be accepted to benefit the Sealth/Denny music programs. Here’s our preview from earlier this week.

SINGIN’ AND SWINGIN’ WITH BOBBY D: The songs of legendary Bobby Darin, 7:30 pm at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW), details here.

ROY ZIMMERMAN: The satirical songwriter brings his show to WSUU (7141 California SW), 7:30 pm.

AT SKYLARK: Laguna, Summer Aviation, and DJ Hectophonic, starting at 8 pm (3803 Delridge Way SW).

’80s DANCE PARTY: Monthly event at The Benbow Room, 8 pm.

AT THE ALKI TAVERN: Time’s ticking on the Alki Tavern, with five weeks left till it’s closing forever. Go enjoy it tonight with Burley Mountain performing tonight, starting at 9.

THE DEE DEES’ DEBUT: “Their first performance anywhere,” says the Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) announcement, describing The Dee Dees as an all-female Ramones tribute band. We also know it’s fronted by Feedback GM Bradi Jones. Be there – 9 pm (6451 California SW).

That’s the trailer for the Van Eps’ new music video, shot at the same West Seattle venue that’s premiering it tonight – part of our highlight list from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

SCHOOL TOUR: 10 am at West Seattle’s STEM elementary, 5950 Delridge Way SW, previewed here last night.

CUT-A-THON TO BENEFIT TRANSITIONAL RESOURCES: Ola Salon (2942 SW Avalon Way) in Luna Park is holding a Cut-A-Thon tonight starting at 5 pm, with proceeds benefiting their Luna Park neighbors at Transitional Resources. Full details in our calendar listing.

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: At Hiawatha Community Center, 6-9 pm – check to see if any room’s left for tonight, and if not, note that another one is coming up.

INTERSECTION CLOSURE REMINDER: 7 pm is when SDOT plans to shut down the Delridge/Henderson intersection for all-weekend-long repaving work. Here’s the detour map.

‘SHIRLEY VALENTINE’ – second-to-last weekend for the acclaimed ArtsWest (WSB sponsor) show, with tonight’s curtain time at 7:30 pm.

ALKI ELEMENTARY’S “ANNIE JR.” – sold out for tonight at the West Seattle High School Theater, we hear, but check on availability for tomorrow!

AT KENYON HALL: It’s Bill Evans on the banjo, 7:30 pm at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW) – details in the calendar listing.

VAN EPS’ VIDEO PREMIERE PARTY AND LIVE PERFORMANCE: Big night of music and video at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), where the Van Eps’ new video was shot (directed by West Seattle’s Jamie Burton Chamberlin – see the trailer above), and where it premieres tonight, along with a live performance by the band, all starting at 8 pm (6451 California SW).

LOW-TIDE BEACH WALK: 8:30 pm at Constellation Park, with volunteer beach naturalists from the Seattle Aquarium. RSVP encouraged but not necessary.

… and even more on the calendar!

(California sea lion, photographed from the Water Taxi yesterday by Mike Steen)
From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar for today:

PARKS AND NEIGHBORHOODS COMMITTEE: just getting under way (watch live at seattlechannel.org), the City Council’s Parks and Neighborhoods Committee meets, with the longterm lease for Marination ma kai (WSB sponsor) at Seacrest part of the agenda, along with the superintendent’s briefing including the artwork we showed here last night.

HIGH-SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: Chief Sealth’s big event for prospective students/families is tonight, 6-8 pm. More details here.

KINDERGARTEN OPEN HOUSE: It’s also open-house night at Arbor Heights Elementary, 37th and 104th, 6-7 pm, for prospective kindergarten families. Details in the calendar listing.

AND ANOTHER OPEN HOUSE: This one’s at Shorewood Christian School (10300 28th SW), 6:30 pm.

(added) AND EVEN *MORE* SCHOOL OPEN HOUSES: Thanks to the commenters who let us know that Alki Elementary and Gatewood Elementary both have open houses tonight too, both at 6:30 pm.

FOOD BANK OPEN HOUSE: The West Seattle Food Bank invites community members to stop by, tour the food bank, find out how it works and how to help. 5-7 pm; southeast corner of 35th and Morgan. Also a West Seattle Chamber of Commerce “After Hours” event.

BASKETBALL POSTSEASON: West Seattle High School‘s girls-varsity basketball team plays tonight at Holy Names, 7 pm.

NORTH HIGHLINE PUBLIC-SAFETY FORUM: If you’re in the unincorporated area – or near the city limits – you might be interested in tonight’s North Highline Unincorporated Area Council public-safety forum, 7 pm at Greenbridge’s Boys and Girls Club (9800 8th SW).

COMEDY OPEN MIKE: Topping the nightlife lineup for tonight, the Benbow Room‘s twice-monthly open-mike comedy night. Signups at 8:30; comedy starts at 9.

MORE … on the calendar!

(Jack Block Park; photo by Don Brubeck, via the WSB Flickr group)
Some of what’s on the WSB West Seattle Events Calendar for today/tonight:

SCHOOL’S OUT EARLY … for Seattle Public Schools, classes are out two hours early today.

ANTI-MAP RALLY: Opponents of the testing program known as MAP have declared this a national day of solidarity, and rallies planned around the area include one outside Chief Sealth International High School (where some of the teachers have gone on record against MAP) at 3:20 pm.

SOUTH PORTAL WORKING GROUP: The advisory committee (including West Seattle reps) that’s periodically briefed on Highway 99 and surrounding projects in the South End will meet at 4 pm in the Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Program offices, 23rd floor of 999 Third Avenue downtown.

LOOKING FOR WORK? Free job-search workshops continue at South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor), in the WorkSource office, where the topic today is how to use LinkedIn. 4:30 pm – details in the calendar listing.

SOUTHWEST DISTRICT COUNCIL: Reps from community councils and other organizations around western West Seattle meet at their new time/location, 6:30 pm at the Southwest Teen Life Center (2801 SW Thistle). Special guest: City Councilmember Tim Burgess. Here’s the agenda.

COMMUNITY SAFETY BRIEFING: Highland Park Action Committee invites community members to HP Improvement Club (12th/Holden) tonight at 7 for the first of two briefings/meetings with Community Police Team Officer Jon Kiehn – topics described here.

‘SHIRLEY VALENTINE’: Second-to-last week to see Heather Hawkins as “Shirley Valentine“ at ArtsWest (WSB sponsor), 7:30 pm.

MORE NIGHTLIFE: Jim Page performs at C & P Coffee, 6-8 pm; the evening also includes trivia at Skylark and Talarico’s, plus more on the nightlife slate – see the listings on the calendar.

MAILED YOUR BALLOT YET? Six days till Election Day for the two Seattle Public Schools levies – get your ballot in the mail by next Tuesday (February 12th).

(Late-December view of the Duwamish and Mt. Rainier, by Don Brubeck, via the WSB Flickr group)
Highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

ROTARY LUNCHEON: Visitors always welcome at the Rotary Club of West Seattle‘s weekly lunch meetings, noon at Salty’s on Alki. Today’s guest speaker is James H. Jackson, MBA, CPA, of West Seattle Certified Public Accounting firm Jackson, Morgan & Hunt. (Note: Salty’s and Jackson, Morgan & Hunt are WSB sponsors)

PRESCHOOL OPEN REGISTRATION AT HIAWATHA: 1:30 pm today, it’s open registration for Bright Beginnings preschool at Hiawatha Community Center – details in the calendar listing.

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRAS: Musicians of all ages are welcome to show up at the weekly rehearsals and check out WSCO. Tuesday night is rehearsal night, starting at 5:30 pm – full details on the WSCO website.

TACO TUESDAY WITH THE SUGAR SKULLS: Tacos, beer, and roller-derby skaters, all at Bird on a Wire Espresso (35th/Henderson) 6-9 tonight, explained here.

‘NEW’ NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL: Westwood, Roxhill, Arbor Heights resident? Join forces with neighbors to advocate for your neighborhoods on issues including crime prevention. Come to a meeting at 6:30 pm, Southwest Branch Library, 35th and Henderson. (Here’s the agenda, as previewed here yesterday.)

HIGH-SCHOOL BASKETBALL: West Seattle High School‘s girls-varsity team plays its first postseason game of the year at Cleveland tonight (map), 7 pm.

… and, as always, even more on the calendar …

(Eagle at Alki Point, photographed by Patrick McCaffrey)
Happy Monday! Five highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you will find even more of what’s up today/tonight, and beyond):

WEST SEATTLE COOKING CLUB: The theme for today’s recipes – Thai. 3 pm, Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW), details in our calendar listing.

WEST SEATTLE ELEMENTARY INFORMATIONAL MEETING … for parents of prospective kindergarteners, 5 pm; contact organizers (info in our calendar listing) for location and other details.

BUTTON DESIGNERS AND VOLUNTEERS WANTED! That’s the call to the community from West Seattle Hi-Yu</a>, which invites all to its general meeting at 6:30 pm tonight, St. John the Baptist Church (California/Hanford).

NEW DAISY SCOUT TROOP FORMING: Interested parents of kindergarten/1st-grade girls are invited to find out more at the main school hall of Holy Rosary School (42nd/Genesee), 6:30-7:30 pm, details in the calendar listing.

OPERA PREVIEW/LECTURE: 6:30 pm, West Seattle (Admiral) Library, a free lecture previewing Seattle Opera’s upcoming “La Boheme” – details in the calendar listing.

(Lincoln Park owl, photographed by Patrick McCaffrey)

A few Super Bowl spotlights are among the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar highlights we have for you today:

WEST SEATTLE SUNDAY SOCCER: Pickup game this morning and every Sunday morning, 7:30 am, rain or shine, at Delridge Playfield.

CASPAR BABYPANTS AT SSCC: The college’s cooperative preschool program is raising money via this morning’s benefit concert by Caspar Babypants at Brockey Center on campus, 10 am, details in our calendar listing.

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: 10 am-2 pm, year-round, at 44th/Alaska.

SUPER BOWL AT MARINATION MA KAI: New place to watch – since it just opened last fall, this is Marination ma kai (WSB sponsor)’s first Super Bowl Sunday at the Seacrest Boathouse restaurant/bar, and not only is there a big screen (and a view), they’re offering a special bar menu – see it here.

SUPER BOWL AT FEEDBACK LOUNGE: Big plans for the big game at The Feedback (WSB sponsor; 6451 California SW):

You asked for it and we’re giving it to you – a Super Bowl Party on both our new 10-foot BIG SCREENS, hosted by TOM HUTYLER, the voice of Safeco Field. We’ll also have a $7 all-you-can-eat Chef Wade buffet ($5 if you bring in non-perishable food items for the West Seattle Food Bank), half off top shelf spirits during half-time, a raffle with big prizes and lots more!

SUPER BOWL AT CHRISTOS ON ALKI: Here’s the lineup at 2508 Alki SW:

We have added another TV in the bar/restaurant! Game sound will be on as well! There will be several specials going on all day that are listed below:

**HAPPY HOUR ALL DAY (food & drinks)
** $2.75 Coors Lights, $4 Fireballs, $ 5 Touchdowns, $ 4 Ouzo
**Free raffle prizes
**$10 Large 1-topping pizzas

NOT INTO FOOTBALL? GO TO THE THEATER! At 3 pm, you can catch the matinee performance of “Shirley Valentine” at ArtsWest (WSB sponsor) in The Junction.

…OR ENJOY MUSIC AND COFFEE: Also at 3 pm, the G-Cleft-tones perform live at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor; 5612 California SW), till 5 pm.

Thanks to Mark Wangerin for sharing the photo of a red-breasted sapsucker, seen in the Camp Long/West Seattle Golf Course area. Mark explains, “Sapsuckers drill neat horizontal rows of holes into tree trunks and then return to feed on the sap. They also eat insects.” How industrious are YOU feeling today? Check out the highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you will find many other options too, for today/tonight and way beyond):

SHREDDING FUNDRAISER: As previewed here last night – 9 to noon, benefiting a local team in the Big Climb, 3703 California SW.

FRIENDS OF LINCOLN PARK: Help clear the park of invasives – it’s a big job but volunteers tackle it one work party at a time, and your help means a lot. 9 am start BUT if you get there late, there’s info on a kiosk where to find the group – as explained in the calendar listing.

ALKI COMMUNITY CENTER PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 10 am-noon, come find out more about the preschool at ACC – details here.

‘ICE CREAM FOR BREAKFAST DAY’ AT FULL TILT: It’s International Ice Cream for Breakfast Day. Really! And Full Tilt Ice Cream (9629 16th SW) will celebrate by offering free waffles – provided you buy the ice cream. Opening early for the occasion, 10:30 am.

JERRY CEIS MEMORIAL: While his friends and admirers have already had tribute gatherings, today is the official memorial for Jerry Ceis, a former Seafair Pirate and larger-than-life West Seattleite who passed away earlier this month, 1:30 pm at Alki Bathhouse.

SOUND YOGA’S 15TH ANNIVERSARY: At 2 pm today, a celebration and blessing will mark 15 years in West Seattle for longtime WSB sponsor Sound Yoga (5639 California SW).

MOVIE SERIES: “The Finger” from Argentina is the featured Global Lens Film Screening at Delridge Library, 2 pm – details here.

MOVIE PREMIERE: Local rock movie “Bent Richard” premieres at 7 pm tonight at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor; 6451 California SW), one of the locations where it was shot.

‘ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW’ AT MIDNIGHT: The monthly Admiral Theater midnight show of what’s become an audience-participation classic is tonight.

MORE NIGHTLIFE … local music, local venues, on the calendar!

Quick look at highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar for tonight (follow that link to the calendar for even more!):

‘THE STAGES OF HOMELESSNESS’: Think you know how and why people become homeless and stay that way? What you don’t know might surprise you – and might lead to solutions Be part of a community forum tonight, St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, 6 pm, details here.

IMMIGRANT/REFUGEE YOUTH RIGHTS: That’s the central topic of High Point Neighborhood Night, 6 pm at High Point Neighborhood Center, 6400 Sylvan Way, details here.

‘CORNER BAR’ NIGHT IN HIGHLAND PARK: The monthly edition of Seattle’s one and only “pop-up bar” – all ages! – is tonight, starting at 6 pm, Highland Park Improvement Club, 12th/Holden. See what it’s all about!

NORTHWEST WINES: Bin 41 in The Junction has “Northwest Medley” for its Friday night tasting theme tonight, 6-7:30 pm, including “a new Albarino and Tempranillo from WA, a Syrah from two collaborating Walla Walla winemakers, a delicious Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from Oregon…(and) a Zinfandel from CA.”

WEST SEATTLE HIGH SCHOOL BIG BAND DANCE: 7 pm in the WSHS commons, with the WSHS Band and the West Seattle Big Band, 3000 California SW. Details here.

(Photo by Machel Spence)
UPDATE: Six highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, where you will find even more for today/tonight:

WINE TASTING: Try student-produced (and select alumni-produced) wines free at the Northwest Wine Academy on the campus of South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor), 1-4 pm. Find out more here.

I-90 TOLLING MEETING IN SEATTLE: Third and final open house this week with a chance to comment on the proposed I-90 bridge tolling, and it’s the only one in Seattle, 4-7 pm at Yesler Community Center (917 E. Yesler Way).

‘CABARET DINNER’ AT SENIOR CENTER: 5:30 pm, dinner and entertainment at the Senior Center of West Seattle (Oregon/California in The Junction) – details here.

K-5 STEM AT BOREN OPEN HOUSE: 6:30-7:30 pm, interested families are invited to visit the school, 5950 Delridge Way SW.

(added) WEST SEATTLE MONTESSORI OPEN HOUSE: 6:30-8 pm at 11215 15th SW, West Seattle Montessori/West Seattle Academy (WSB sponsor), pre-K through 8th grade, invites interested families to its open house..

‘SHIRLEY VALENTINE’ … continues at ArtsWest (4711 California SW) – “the story of a woman in her 40s, stuck in a rut, unsure of how to get her groove back.” 7:30 pm, ticket info and other details here.

Quick highlight list from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

I-90 TOLL? OPEN HOUSE #2: Second of three open houses this week regarding proposed tolls on I-90 to help pay for the new 520 bridge (among other things). 4-7 pm, Bellevue City Hall – map/info here (the closest one to WS is tomorrow at Yesler Community Center).

FREE JOB-SEARCH ADVICE: A new free series of workshops starts at 4:30 pm at South Seattle Community College (WSB sponsor), with “Online Job Search Basics” featured tonight.

WINE TASTING: Taste Siren Song Wines (WSB sponsor) tonight at The Cask in The Admiral District, 6-9 pm – details here.

HIGH-SCHOOL BASKETBALL: West Seattle High School‘s girls team hosts Eastside Catholic at 7:30 pm.

‘SHIRLEY VALENTINE’: Week 2 begins for ArtsWest‘s latest production. Curtain time is 7:30 pm; ticket info’s in our calendar listing.

(Bewick’s wren, photographed by Danny McMillin and shared via the WSB Flickr group)
The prospect of tolls on the I-90 bridge have been a hot topic since we mentioned this week’s series of open houses – none in West Seattle, but maybe one is convenient to your workplace; they start tonight. That’s part of the list of highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

CO-WORKING MEETUP: Every Tuesday, noon-1 pm, at Uptown Espresso in The Junction until West Seattle Office Junction has a permanent location, they host a co-working meetup “to connect small business owners with each other.”

I-90 TOLLS? FIRST ROUND OF COMMENTING: None are in West Seattle, but they’re of high interest, and WSDOT is advertising them on WSB – three WSDOT open houses this week as they embark on the “environmental assessment” of potential I-90 bridge tolling – in this context, “environmental” includes a wide range of effects, not just “ecological.” Tonight’s open house is 4-7 pm on Mercer Island; details (and a map) here.

BEER TASTING: Elliott Bay Brewing in The Junction starts its “Ode to Darkness” tasting at 3 pm, with the brewer on hand 5-6 pm for questions. Details in our calendar listing.

DREAM DINNERS OPEN HOUSE: Located in The Junction, West Seattle’s Dream Dinners (WSB sponsor) is the answer to the question “what’s for dinner?” and you can check it out at 5:30 pm – RSVP requested; details in our calendar listing.

LIFE-SAVING DISCUSSION: ***6 pm*** at High Point Library (35th/Raymond), teen librarian Ken Gollersrud and the Chief Sealth International High School PTSA present information about teen depression and suicide prevention – information that could save someone’s life. Details here.

And lots more – check the calendar, for today/tonight and way beyond!

Thanks to David Hutchinson for the Friday evening photo from Duwamish Head. Before we get into today’s preview – David sent it along with this question:

Maybe someone can tell me where all the gulls go at twilight? My wife & I frequently see dozens of them heading past Duwamish Head traveling west toward Bainbridge Island. Reminds us a little of the bat flights out of Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico.

Got the answer? Please post it in the comment zone – thanks! (Or you can e-mail editor@westseattleblog.com and we’ll share it.) Now, what’s up for today, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

MONTHLY LA LECHE LEAGUE MEETING: Support for breastfeeding moms, wherever they are on the journey from expectant to weaning, 10:30 am on fourth Mondays at the WSUU church, 7141 California SW.

WSHS BASKETBALL: West Seattle High School‘s teams host Seattle Prep tonight, and boys’ head coach Keffrey Fazio posted this on the WSB Facebook page:

The West Seattle HS Basketball program is doing a “BLACKOUT” the gym night (tonight) at 6 pm. The boys and girls varsity teams host Seattle Prep. There will be prizes and give-aways all night! Boys at 615 pm, and girls at 8 pm. Adults $6, kids $4. Wear your BLACK and come support your Wildcats!

HEALTHY GROCERIES FOR DELRIDGE: A co-op grocery store is getting closer to reality, but the Delridge Produce Cooperative (whose project is no longer just about “produce”) still needs time and talent from anyone interested in helping. The monthly meeting is at 6:30 pm tonight, Delridge Library – details here.

‘ON STAGE’ CONVERSATION AT ARTSWEST: The artistic process behind the new ArtsWest production “Shirley Valentine” is explored in this free conversation at the theater tonight, 7:30 pm – details here.

NIGHTLIFE – TRIVIA/QUIZ NIGHT! Three West Seattle venues have trivia/quiz nights on the calendar – OutWest Bar at 7:30 pm, Christo’s on Alki also at 7:30 pm, and Shadowland has pub-quiz night at 8 pm.

INTERESTED IN BEING A SOFTBALL UMPIRE? One more mention of this story we published a few weeks back – because it’s training time. The West Seattleite who is now umpire-in-chief for the region put out the recruiting call, with softball season approaching.

(Photo by Ilona Berzups, titled “Seagull, exit stage right,” shared via WSB Flickr group)
From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar – highlights for today/tonight:

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 9 am-1 pm, tour OLG‘s preschool-8th grade school at 34th/Myrtle, details here.

AUTHOR SPEAKS AT TU B’SHVAT BRUNCH: West Seattle Torah Learning Center hosts Israeli author Doron Kornbluth at 10 am brunch marking the nature-oriented holiday; details and RSVP info in the calendar listing.

HOME DESIGN AND REMODEL FAIR: Not in West Seattle, but lots of West Seattle participation at the Phinney Neighborhood Association‘s famous Home Design and Remodel Fair, 10 am-4 pm, including WSB sponsors Ventana Construction, Ncompass, and WEdesign – 6532 Phinney Avenue N.

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: Go see what’s fresh this week, 44th/Alaska, 10 am-2 pm.

HOLY ROSARY SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 10:15 am to 2 pm, tour HRS, with 8th graders as your guides. 42nd/Oregon.

MENCHIE’S FROZEN YOGURT CELEBRATES FIRST ANNIVERSARY IN ADMIRAL: 11 am-10 pm, the party’s at Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt (WSB sponsor; 2620 California SW), including free yogurt 11 am-1 pm, free birthday cake at 7 pm, and a full schedule of fun inbetween/during/after – it’s all listed here.

A CHILD BECOMES PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: The preschool located at Admiral Congregational Church (4320 SW Hill) welcomes visitors 2 pm-4 pm today.

WEST SEATTLE COOKING CLUB: A rare Sunday meeting for the club – and it’s freestyle; the recipe theme for you to make and bring something is “Anything Goes.” 3 pm, Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW).

‘SHIRLEY VALENTINE’ MATINEE: First weekend for the newest production at ArtsWest in The Junction, and first matinee today – 3 pm. You can get your ticket/s online.

JAZZ TRIO AT LOCOL: 7:30 pm, Chad McCullough on trumpet, Matt Weiner on bass, Eric Eagle on drums. Never been to Löcol? Map and details here.

Even more for today/tonight, on the calendar!

(Spotted off Alki on Friday by John Hinkey)
From the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar for today/tonight:

SOUTHWEST SEATTLE SUPER STRING SATURDAY: Today’s the day, 10 am-1 pm at Chief Sealth International High School (2600 SW Thistle), including a free 10:30 am mini-concert – everyone’s invited! – by musicians of the Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestra, which is presenting this event, and coaching for young musicians who are part of SYSO’s local school programs. (WSB is a media sponsor of this event.)

STORYTIMES: At 11 am, Barnes and Noble at Westwood Village, Melissa says, “Skippyjon Jones will be hanging out with us! Everyone’s favorite chihuahua wannabe will be there to shake paws and make friends while we read his stories!” … And at 11:30 am, it’s Vietnamese storytime at Delridge Library (Delridge south of Brandon) – details here.

OVERWHELMED BY DEBT? Come talk about it in a conversation sponsored by Occupy West Seattle, noon at Dubsea Coffee (8th SW in Greenbridge, just south of Roxbury), details here.

OPEN HOUSE: Bright Beginnings preschool at Hiawatha Community Center (2700 California SW) welcomes interested families today, 1-3 pm.

JUNIOR ROLLER DERBY: 5 pm tonight, the West Seattle-founded Derby Brats’ Galaxy Girls – one of the top junior derby teams in the world – host another top team, the Portland Rosebuds, at Southgate Roller Rink; details here.

DAUGHTERS OF THE DEAD SEA AT SKYLARK: The West Seattle band headlines tonight’s slate at Skylark Café and Club (3803 Delridge Way SW), 8 pm.

Much more for today/tonight on the calendar!

(Ducks on Longfellow Creek, by Flickr member old desolate, shared via the WSB Flickr group)
Got your ducks in a row for today/tonight? Some of the highlights from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

WEST SEATTLE GARDEN CLUB: 10 am-2 pm at Daystar (2615 SW Barton) – here’s the lineup for today’s meeting, which you’re welcome to join, even if you’re not a member.

RAINBOW BINGO: Didn’t get enough “Ugly Sweater” excitement during the holidays? It’s the theme for tonight’s Rainbow Bingo at the Senior Center of West Seattle (WSB sponsor). Doors open at 6 pm if you’re interested in buying dinner; 7 pm, bingo. Details here – including how to call to be sure there’s still room!

PATSY CLINE TRIBUTE: 8 pm at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW), with David Duvall and Meg McLynn – details here, including reservation info.

SWEET SWEET MUSIC: 8 pm tonight at Fauntleroy Church’s Fellowship Hall (after the farewell dinner for longtime Pastor David Kratz) – details here.

LOTS MORE NIGHTLIFE ON THE CALENDAR: Listings for Skylark, The Cask, Benbow Room (Tiki Night!), C & P Coffee … find them all here.

In the absence of our regular daily preview, here are four events happening TONIGHT that might be of interest:

WEST SEATTLE LITTLE LEAGUE SIGN-UPS: If you would rather sign up in person than online, you’re welcome at the West Seattle High School library (3000 California SW) tonight, 6-8 pm – more info here.

THE WHALE TRAIL PRESENTS WHALE TALES: Orca researcher Mark Sears helps The Whale Trail kick off a winter series of speakers/events, 6:30 pm at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor; 5612 California SW), with Seal Sitters and “Diver Laura” James from tox-ick.org on hand too – online registration is over so get there early to see if there’s room ($5 donation).

THE ART OF SOUP: Just found out from Krystal Kelley at Mind Unwind that Freshy’s proprietor and legendary soupmaker Amber is back from maternity leave and teaching the class for the first time tonight, 6:30 pm at M/U (2206 California SW), with a few spots still open! $50 includes food, wine, and recipes.

THE BIRDS, THE BEES, & KIDS: Got a kid who’s “that age” and looking for helpful advice on broaching The Subject? Amy Lang tackles the topic (how to talk to kids about love and healthy relationships, not just the s-e-x part) at Concord International School (723 S. Concord) in South Park at 6:30 tonight, presented by the Concord PTA. All welcome; Spanish translation available.

And of course there’s more on the calendar …

(Great blue heron photographed at Alki Point by Yuri Levchenko, shared via WSB Flickr group)
Before we get further into the day – nine notes for tonight from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar – starting with two that affect WS but are happening outside our area:

SCHOOL BOARD (ETC.): Tonight the board finalizes the Capacity Management plan for next year; before the board meeting, opponents of MAP testing plan a rally outside district HQ in SODO. That’s at 4; the board meeting’s at 4:15 – updated agenda here (including details on the transportation plan for next year, which you can see here).

REAL TALK FOR GIRLS: Young women 12-19 are welcome at 5:30 pm at Southwest Teen Life Center to talk about what’s on their minds (2801 SW Thistle).

OPPORTUNITY FUND PRESENTATIONS: The Parks and Green Spaces Levy Oversight Committee (chaired by West Seattleite Pete Spalding) listens tonight to presentations by those who’ve applied for the second round of grants from the levy’s Opportunity Fund. While city staff has ranked Genesee Hill and South Park projects highest for this region, that’s just part of what the committee takes into account, and now is the time for applicants to make their case; eventually, the City Council has to give its blessing. This is the first of two events for presentations, and the closest one to West Seattle – it’s at South Shore Middle School (4800 S. Henderson; here’s a map), 6-9 pm, starting with an open house.

HIGHLAND PARK ACTION COMMITTEE: 7 pm tonight at Highland Park Improvement Club (or come early for the 6:30 pm potluck), 12th/Holden. Agenda includes talking with Seattle Parks about the possibility of more trees for Riverview Park, an update on the raingarden coming to HPIC, and a call for “ideas on what you think could improve Highland Park.” Plus – leadership nominations!

POEMS AND STORIES: The monthly poetry/storytelling night at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor; 5612 California SW), 7 pm – more info here.

BASKETBALL – WSHS @ CSIHS, NIGHT 2: Tonight, the Wildcats and Seahawks’ girls teams face off in the Chief Sealth International High School gym (2600 SW Thistle) – 5:45 JV, 7:30 pm varsity.

OPENING NIGHT FOR ‘SHIRLEY VALENTINE’: The new production at ArtsWest debuts tonight, 7:30 pm, details here.

JAZZ AT DUOS LOUNGE: The new beverage/food spot on Avalon Way in Luna Park is starting jazz music on Wednesday nights – 8 pm, the Triangular Jazztets perform.

TALARICO’S TRIVIA: New addition to our calendar – though not a new addition to the West Seattle nightlife scene! Phil Tavel e-mailed WSB to point out that he has been doing trivia at Talarico’s every Wednesday night for five years, 8:30 till 10 (or a little beyond) – says he hasn’t missed a week, even in snow! $2 person, no maximum or minimum team size, “cash prices to the top 3 teams and bottles of champagne for the bottom three teams.”

Just like the third-eyelid-sporting crow photographed at Jack Block Park by David Hutchinson, the busy schedule in the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar has a totally no-nonsense look for today/tonight. Some of what’s on the schedule:

NOTES FROM THE JOB SEARCH: Yes, this networking group is still meeting – if you are new to the job-search world and looking for support, check it out, 11 am at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor; 5612 California SW).

ROTARY CLUB OF WEST SEATTLE LUNCH MEETING: Jazz writer Paul de Barros is this week’s guest speaker. Interested in checking out the West Seattle Rotary? You’re welcome to attend – noon at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor).

BASKETBALL – WSHS BOYS VISIT SEALTH: Junior varsity at 5:45, varsity at 7:30, as Chief Sealth International High School (2600 SW Thistle) hosts West Seattle High School for two basketball games tonight (the girls play there tomorrow).

BLOCKWATCH CAPTAINS’ NETWORK: You don’t have to be a Block Watch captain to come to this neighborhood-to-neighborhood crime-prevention-support (and more) meeting. On the agenda tonight, they’ll get a re-introduction from recently returned Southwest Precinct commander Capt. Joe Kessler, and they’ll talk about home-security cameras. 6:30 pm at the precinct (Delridge/Webster).

SUSTAINABLE WEST SEATTLE’S ANNUAL MEETING: New board members, a 2012 recap, and a new community grant opportunity are part of what’s on the agenda at 7 pm, Senior Center of West Seattle (California/Oregon) – all welcome, members or not! Full details on the SWS website.

DESIGN CONCEPTS FOR NEW SCHOOL: See how the potential designs for the new Schmitz Park Elementary at Genesee Hill are evolving, presented by the architects and district at 7 pm at the current SP Elementary (5000 SW Spokane).

PESTICIDES AND FOOD: Public Health Café discussion tonight at Chaco Canyon Organic Café (38th and Alaska), 7 pm – details in our calendar listing.

SOCIAL CHANGE RE: MENTAL HEALTH … is the topic of a community discussion at 7 pm @ Hope Lutheran Church (42nd/Oregon). Details in our preview.

NIGHTLIFE … Live music at Löcol and OutWest, trivia at Feedback Lounge, karaoke at Skylark, singer/songwriter showcase at Shadowland – all listed on the calendar with full details.

Gary Jones‘ Alki Point photos (see two more in the series, further down in this report) remind us there is a sun out there somewhere. Might reappear later – or tomorrow. Meantime, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you’ll find even more of what’s up today/tonight):

SCANNING YOUR PHOTOS: 9 am class at Senior Center of West Seattle (California/Oregon) this morning – call 206-932-4044 to see if there’s still room.

WEST SIDE MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers): The group in its 25th year meets 1st and 3rd Fridays at West Side Presbyterian Church, 9:30 pm; details in our calendar listing.

INFORMAL GATHERING TO REMEMBER JERRY CEIS: First of at least three gatherings planned by friends – this one’s at 5:30 pm at Christo’s on Alki. (The other two, so far, are at 3 pm January 27th at the Chelan Café and then another at Christo’s at 6:30 pm February 5th.)

‘BOBCAT BOB’ AT C & P: Tonight’s live music around West Seattle starts with Bob “Bobcat Bob” Rice, 6-8 pm at C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor; 5612 California SW).

RESTORATIVE YOGA: Milo Minnis leads Restorative Yoga at 6:30 pm to get you ready for the weekend (and you don’t have to be a yoga expert, Milo notes), Sound Yoga (WSB sponsor; 5639 California SW).

SKATE NIGHT AT ALKI COMMUNITY CENTER: 6:45 pm, the weekly tradition continues. Details here.

BAD YEAR FOR TOMATOES: Last night for the student-directed production at West Seattle High School, 7:30 pm (details here).

(Thanks again to Gary Jones for the three wonderful eagle-vs.-the-world photos from Alki Point)