(Via the WSB Flickr group pool, by “Chroni,” who says the trees are on Pigeon Point, near Pathfinder K-8)
The list of official events is a little shorter than usual today, as some organizations/businesses made calendar changes this month to facilitate Valentine’s Day celebrations. (For example, the Fauntleroy Community Association met last week (WSB coverage here), and the Admiral Neighborhood Association delayed its meeting a day, to 7 pm Wednesday.) Here’s what IS on the list for today/tonight:

BRIDGE CLOSURES AND OTHER ROAD WORK: An especially intense week continues. If you drive through the Morgan Junction/Lincoln Park area on Fauntleroy Way SW, it’s the second day of work on the “transit corridor” project to facilitate this fall’s launch of RapidRide bus service. Here’s our on-scene report from Monday, with more details. … Avalon Way again will have restrictions/detours today, 9 am-4 pm, explained here … Two West Seattle Bridge closures overnight again tonight: The eastbound Spokane Street Viaduct is closed east of the 1st Avenue South offramp, 9 pm-5 am (details here); the Fauntleroy Expressway (southwest end of the bridge) has an overnight closure those same hours, detailed here (and yet another reminder that this coming Sunday, THE FAUNTLEROY EXPRESSWAY WILL BE CLOSED ALL DAY).

LIBRARY STORY TIMES: Two this morning – Toddler Story Time at 10:30 am at West Seattle (Admiral) Library and Baby Story Time at Southwest Library at 11:30 am; links and info reachable via the Seattle Public Library Calendar of Events.

‘HAVE A HEART DAY’ AT ILLUSIONS: As of last report, a few spots were left for Illusions Hair Design (WSB sponsor)’s “Have a Heart Day” – half the proceeds from all services today go to Pencil Me In for Kids, noon-8 pm. Call ASAP to see if any spots are left: (206) 938-3675

LOVE TREES AND OTHER GROWING THINGS? : Health and Harvest Tours at Community Orchard of West Seattle are 2-4 pm on Tuesdays, details here

VALENTINE’S NIGHT NATURE WALK: Naturalist Stewart Wechsler‘s “Salamander Love Night” nature tour at Camp Long, 6:30 pm (more info here)

NIGHTLIFE, WITH SOME VALENTINE CHANGES: Special Valentine’s dinner at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) – call to check if there’s still room … Skylark Café and Club also has a special dinner menu tonight … Rock music/pop culture trivia at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 8 pm … “Geeks Who Drink” pub quiz at The Wing Dome in The Junction, 8 pm … Trivia at The Bridge, $2 registration beginning at 8 pm and play starting at 8:30 pm. … Free pool at Beveridge Place Pub, plus discounts on bottled Belgian beer … Starlight songwriter showcase at Shadowland, 9 pm.

(Click for larger view)
Gatewood photographer/pilot Long B. Nguyen shares that view of the Lowman Beach area – in the news tonight with another design meeting for the sewer-overflow-control project that will be built where you see a block of residences across from the beach park now. Here’s the full list of what’s on the schedule today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

BRIDGE CLOSURES AND OTHER ROAD WORK: There’s LOTS going on. If you drive through the Morgan Junction/Lincoln Park area on Fauntleroy Way SW, crews are starting work on the “transit corridor” project to facilitate this fall’s launch of RapidRide bus service. They’re scheduled to work in the daytime, with some lane restrictions expected; details here. … Avalon Way is scheduled for restrictions/detours today, 9 am-4 pm, explained here … Two West Seattle Bridge closures overnight tonight: The eastbound Spokane Street Viaduct is closed east of the 1st Avenue South offramp, 9 pm-5 am (details here); the Fauntleroy Expressway (southwest end of the bridge) has an overnight closure those same hours, detailed here (and remember – NEXT SUNDAY, IT’S CLOSED ALL DAY).

PORT TRUCKERS RALLY: Just east of the east end of the “low bridge,” port truckers and supporters are scheduled to rally at 9 am by the Spokane Street Fishing Bridge (here’s our Sunday preview).

ADMIRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT MEETING: 4 pm, the Benbow Room @ Heartland Café, with the agenda including officer elections. Details on the Admiral District Facebook page.

ZUMBA FUNDRAISER AT WSHS and other dates: West Seattle High School ASB fundraiser for the Class of 2012 – Zumba classes open to all, 5-6 pm today, Thursday, Feb. 28, and March 1 in the WSHS gym, $7/class or 2 for $10.

NDNC MEETING: North Delridge Neighborhood Council meeting, 6:30 pm, Delridge Library, agenda (see it here) includes update on Delridge Neighborhoods Development Association.

DESIGN MEETING FOR OVERFLOW-CONTROL PROJECT: Fourth meeting of the Design Advisory Group for the Murray combined-sewer-overflow control facility project across from Lowman Beach. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Fauntleroy Church, 9140 California SW.

PPNC MEETING: Pigeon Point Neighborhood Council meets at Pathfinder K-8 School cafeteria, 7 pm

WEST SEATTLE TEEN IN NATIONAL COMPETITION: Andrew Borracchini represents Admiral Metropolitan Market (WSB sponsor) – and the entire state! – in the grocery-bagging national championships in Las Vegas (see most recent WSB story here).

NIGHTLIFE: Trivia with Brian Calvert at Christo’s on Alki, 7 pm … Karaoke with Kelli at Skylark Café and Club, 9 pm … Also at 9 pm, the “Flat Earth Society” weekly vinyl DJ’ing at West 5 features Eric Eagle … Talarico’s has karaoke @ 9:30 pm.

The sign at Luna Park Café pays tribute to Jim Sweeney, as do those posting to the guestbook following his obituary in the Times and comments following our report here. Today, a final farewell to the longtime West Seattle businessman and community supporter, with a 2 pm Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Guadalupe followed by a reception at The Hall at Fauntleroy. Also from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

KICKIN’ IT: West Seattle Sunday Soccer, 7:30 am at Delridge Playfield (more info on Facebook)

SUNDAY MORNING TAI-CHI: Lao-Shi Caylen Storm teaches a class at 9 am, $1, at Seattle Wushu Center, 5659 California SW.

A FARMERS’ MARKET YOU’LL LOVE: Look for Valentine treats at the West Seattle Farmers’ Market in The Junction, 44th/Alaska, 10 am-2 pm. Market managers suggest: “Sparkling wine, rose otto caramels, rose petal jelly, sweet sockeye jerky, spot prawns, chocolate sauce, chocolate cookies, butter, tulips, bittersweet ladysmith cheese, frozen raspberries and cherries & NY steaks!”

LITTLE PILGRIM OPEN HOUSE: Little Pilgrim School Open House, 11 am-1 pm, 9140 California Ave. SW. From the announcement: “Tour the classrooms, meet the teachers, ask questions and pick up enrollment information and registration forms.”

TEA TIME: If you don’t have tickets, it’s too late, as they’re not available at the door, but a reminder for those who do: WestSide Baby‘s annual Benefit Tea is at 2 pm, new location this year (the Hilton by Sea-Tac).

DUBSEA BIKES: Free minor bike repairs at this pop-up clinic, 2-4 pm at White Center Food Bank, details here.

BRAZILIAN MUSIC AT C & P: Choro Tocando performs, 3-5 pm, at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor; 5612 California SW).

FINAL PERFORMANCE: 3 pm today is the last performance of “All Through the Night” at ArtsWest in The Junction.

EXPLORE FAUNTLEROY PARK: Dusk to Dark Fauntleroy Park exploration, 5 pm with naturalist Stewart Wechsler, details here.

AUTHOR AT WSUU: “Compassion Alive in You”, Rev. Robert Taylor, author of new book “A New Way to Be Human,” is guest lecturer at Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 7141 California SW, 10:30 am.

SOUP’S ON: This week, instead of meeting on Monday as usual, the West Seattle Cooking Club is getting together today at 4 pm at Big Al Brewing in White Center, for a “soup-off.”

(Surf scoter we saw off Me-Kwa-Mooks during a walk on Friday afternoon)
17 highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

COMMUNITY SCHOOL OF WEST SEATTLE OPEN HOUSE: Come visit Community School of West Seattle (WSB sponsor), 22nd/Roxbury, 10 am-2 pm

(updated) NEIGHBORHOOD APPRECIATION DAY AT 3 FIRE STATIONS: Open house 11 am-1 pm at Seattle Fire Department‘s Station 11 (Highland Park, 16th/Holden) and Station 37 (Sunrise Heights, 35th/Holden). Added: We doublechecked the list distributed by SFD yesterday – it ALSO includes Station 32 (The Junction, 38th/Alaska), so that’s THREE stations open for tours in West Seattle (among others citywide).

STORYTIME: 11 am, storytime at Westwood Village Barnes and Noble, all ages welcome, treats for younger readers.

NEIGHBORHOOD APPRECIATION DAY AT SOUTHWEST POOL: Noon- 2 pm, including free refreshments and a free public swim at 1 pm (2801 SW Thistle).

TOUR THE VIETNAMESE CULTURAL CENTER: On SW Orchard north of Home Depot, open to the public every Saturday noon-3 pm.

MORNING GLORY BRUNCH: Skylark Café and Club hosts the Morning Glory Drag Queen Brunch on the second Saturday of each month. From the announcement: “The fun starts at noon. Tickets are available … at the door. Jeffrey Robert starts the show with some stand-up comedy, then Magnolia Crawford and guest performers do a fabulous show while diners enjoy their brunch and drinks! It is a pretty unique and fun way to start a weekend.”

PERFUME PARTY: 1st annual Valentine’s Tea Party hosted by Sweet Anthem Handmade Perfumes from 12-4 PM, promising perfume, candy, and flowers, with local vendors/creators including Sweet Anthem’s Meredith Smith. RSVP for the event on Facebook (6021-B California SW)

SICHUAN SATURDAY AT SEATTLE CHINESE GARDEN: 6000 16Th SW, 1-4 pm, north side of South Seattle Community College campus: “The Cultures and Landscapes of Western Sichuan.” See photos and learn about the people and culture of China’s southwest province and Washington’s sister state. Learn about NW efforts to help the area recover from the 2008 earthquake. UW Professors Stevan Harrell & Daniel Abramson will speak. Suggested donations: $7 Adults, $5 SCG Members and Students

LEARN ABOUT BEES AT BARTON ST. P-PATCH: Barton Street P-Patch invites gardeners to a buzzworthy event this Saturday: a “master gardener lecture on keeping mason bees (pollinators, not honeybees), 2-4 pm. Bring your own seating!” The garden’s at 34th/Barton.

SECOND MEETING FOR ‘OCCUPY WEST SEATTLE’: 2-6 pm, Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation Church, 7141 California SW.

VIGIL FOR JIM SWEENEY: The longtime community supporter/Alki Lumber owner will be remembered with a vigil tonight at 7 pm at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church (35th/Myrtle), followed by his memorial service at 2 pm Sunday, also at OLG. (Here’s our story with Mr. Sweeney’s obituary and 40 tribute comments from readers.)

SOUL JAMBALAYA: Denny International Middle School and Chief Sealth International High School present “Soul Jambalaya” – a musical celebration of gospel, blues, jazz, funk and reggae. The Total Experience Gospel Choir, Clinton Fearon, Septimus and others will take the stage at Chief Sealth High School Auditorium (2600 SW Thistle) at 7 pm. Admission is free – donations (going to the schools’ music programs) will be accepted.

DEBUSSY FESTIVAL: Music Northwest Concert Series 2011/12 – Debussy Anniversary Festival I: The Piano Music, 7:30 PM. Pianists Natalya Ageyeva, Duane Hulbert, Jane Harty. Preludes Books I and II (selected), Suite pour le piano, Estampes, Images, L’isle Joyeuse. Held at Olympic Recital Hall on the south side of the South Seattle Community College campus. See website for tickets and more information.

2ND TO LAST PERFORMANCE OF ‘ALL THROUGH THE NIGHT’: 7:30 pm at ArtsWest.

JAZZ: Elizabeth Dawson will perform jazz music at Salty’s on Alki from 8 to 10 pm with pianist Edward Weber, in the Cafe Bar. There is no cover.

DANCE PARTY: Monthly Candylandia dance party with DJ Cotton Candy at the Benbow Room inside Heartland Café in the Admiral District, 9 pm. More info on the Facebook invite

AT ALKI TAVERN TONIGHT: Burley Mountain, local alt country/alt rock band, sends word they’re playing the Alki Tavern (every second Saturday). $3 cover and drink specials. Hear them at myspace.com/burleymountainband

LIVE AT SKYLARK: ’80s Invasion (80s new wave tribute band) sent word they’re on tonight’s slate at Skylark Café and Club, 9 pm.

(Photo by Doug Branch, from the WSB Flickr group pool)
Before we get too much further into the day – highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

SSCC VALENTINE WINE RELEASE AND SALE: At the Northwest Wine Academy on the South Seattle Community College campus, 1-5 pm today and tomorrow, featuring the pouring and releasing of “a limited edition 2009 Syrah Clone 4 pack.” Also, chocolates made by the SSCC pastry department.

WINE AND CHOCOLATES: Tonight’s tasting at Bin 41 Wine in The Junction is a pairing with Theo’s Chocolates. Details here.

TASTING EVENT AT METROPOLITAN MARKET: From Metropolitan Market (WSB sponsor): “Celebrate the week of Valentine’s Day by raising a glass and toasting the occasion with all of the romantics in your neighborhood. Join us for a complimentary Sparkling Wine and Champagne tasting paired with either Hama Hama Oysters or Crab Cakes served with spicy pink aioli. Dessert tasting includes Chocolate Covered Strawberries, French Macaroons that will give you the sweet taste of Paris, and Crème Brûlée topped with Theo’s Chocolate.” 5-7 PM, 2320 42nd Ave SW.

‘ONCE UPON A MATTRESS’: “Once Upon a Mattress,” presented by West Seattle Montessori (WSB sponsor), Chief Sealth International High School auditorium, 7 pm

‘SEUSSICAL’ SOLD OUT! We’re told the Alki Elementary musical featured on WSB yesterday is now sold out, both shows, but in case you happen by West Seattle High School tonight and wonder what’s up – the show’s in the WSHS Theater at 7 pm.

BLUEGRASS AT KENYON HALL: Convergence Zone Bluegrass Band, 7:30 pm, details on the Kenyon Hall website.

(Photo courtesy ArtsWest)
FINAL WEEKEND FOR ‘ALL THROUGH THE NIGHT’: Tonight is the third-to-last performance of the current production at ArtsWest, which describes “All Through the Night” as “Shirley Lauro’s explosive and highly theatrical World War drama about German gentile women fighting for survival from inside the Third Reich.” 7:30 pm tonight – tickets available online at artswest.org or via phone at 206-938-0339.

(Flowers on SW Barton – by “Old Desolate” from the WSB Flickr group pool)
From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

BRIDGE CLOSURES AGAIN TONIGHT: 9 pm-5 am, closures of both the eastbound Spokane Street Viaduct (for the SSV Widening Project), east of the 1st Avenue South exit, and the Fauntleroy Expressway (for its seismic-retrofit work), west of the Delridge Way exit. Details are here.

WSHS TOUR THIS MORNING: Tour time at West Seattle High School, 8:30-10 am.

SSCC VALENTINE WINE RELEASE AND SALE: At the Northwest Wine Academy on the South Seattle Community College campus, 1-5 pm today and tomorrow, featuring the pouring and releasing of “a limited edition 2009 Syrah Clone 4 pack.” Also, chocolates made by the SSCC pastry department.

(added) ‘HAPPY HOUR’ FOR WEST SEATTLE PHOTOGRAPHER’S EXHIBITION: We’ve told you before about longtime WSB contributor Christopher Boffoli‘s photography exhibition at Winston Wachter (203 Dexter Avenue North) – and tonight, you’re invited to a “happy hour” event at the gallery for which he’ll be in attendance, 5-7 pm.

CHIEF SEALTH OPEN HOUSE TONIGHT: Rescheduled open house at Chief Sealth International High School – 5:45 to 8 pm tonight, details here.

WEST SEATTLE ART WALK NIGHT: West Seattle Art Walk, all over the peninsula – paintings, photos, music, more, all free to see and enjoy, 6-9 pm. One highlight, for wildlife fans: Robin Lindsey (of Seal Sitters fame) is displaying photos at Windermere in The Junction. Here’s the venue list/map for tonight.

BRAZILIAN CHORO MUSIC AT C & P: Art Walk night is also Wine Tasting night at C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor), and tonight Choro Tocando – a flute/guitar/percussion group – is performing.

‘ASK THE EXPERT’ AT WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: This is also a 2nd-Thursday fixture – get some hints on your projects, browse the tool library’s inventory, and enjoy a “DIY Social.” Details in this Facebook event listing.

ART AT MIND UNWIND: It’s a new business so it’s not on the WSAW map yet, but Mind Unwind in The Admiral District (2206A California SW) will also be open 6-9 tonight, featuring the paintings of Cathy Woo.

OPEN HOUSE AT THE CENTER SCHOOL: Not in West Seattle but it’s a Seattle Public Schools option high school popular with WS families, and it’s having an open house tonight too, 6-8 pm, upstairs in the Center House at Seattle Center.

(added) OPEN HOUSE AT NOVA: And we’ve heard from the West Seattle contingent at Seattle Public Schools’ other option high schol, Nova on Capitol Hill, which also has an open house/tour event, 6 pm.

KINDERGARTEN FILM FESTIVAL: Alki Elementary Kindergarten Film Festival at Admiral Theater, doors open 6, showtime 6:15 pm. From school website: “Featuring stories written independently by all Alki Kindergarten students, adapted for the big screen as short films. All families and friends are invited to join in this special celebration of our hard work in Writer’s Workshop. Theater capacity is 345! The bigger and more supportive the audience, the more we will motivate these young authors. Spread the word! The event is free. Admiral Theater will be offering a special deal – one small popcorn and one small drink for $4, cash only.”

(added) GATEWOOD ELEMENTARY OPEN HOUSE: And tours – 6:30 pm, more info here.

DENNY OPEN HOUSE TONIGHT: At Denny International Middle School, tonight’s the Evening Open House for prospective new families, 6:30 pm.

LAFAYETTE PTA MEETING: The school community’s invited to the Lafayette Elementary PTA meeting, 7 pm.

PUBLIC SAFETY MEETING: If you live in south West Seattle – or have a general interest in regional public-safety issues, particularly gangs – you might want to check out the North Highline Unincorporated Area Council‘s Public Safety Forum tonight, featuring a presentation on regional gang activity from a King County Sheriff’s Office expert, as well as updates from KCSO and Metro Transit Police leadership. 7 pm, North Highline Fire District HQ, 1243 SW 112th.

COMMUNICATING WITH COMPASSION: From the announcement: “Angry? Sad? Scared? Confused? Come learn Nonviolent (Compassionate) Communication (NVC). We’ll listen with our heart, and practice compassion with our own and others’ feelings and needs.” The workshop will be 7-9 pm, by donation, 5646 42nd SW. Call Moreah Vestan (206) 938-8385 with any questions and to say you’re coming.

NIGHTLIFE: At The Bridge: Free Poker on Thursdays.

HIGHLAND PARK IMPROVEMENT CLUB: Dance and yoga today/tonight! Check out their class and event listings (and food trucks some days of the week, too) on the right sidebar at hpic1919.org.

(Photographed along Harbor Ave. SW by Don Brubeck; shared via the WSB Flickr group pool)

SCHOOL TOURS AT DENNY: Till 9:30 am today, you’re invited to tour Denny International Middle School; all are welcome – no appointment needed.

TALK WITH YOUR SCHOOL BOARD REP: School Board member Marty McLaren‘s community-conversation meeting this month is at High Point Library from 11:15 AM to 1:15 PM. Parents and community members are invited to come with their Seattle Public Schools questions, concerns, and ideas, particularly regarding West Seattle schools. (She welcomes your e-mailed questions in preparation for the meeting: martha.mclaren@seattleschools.org)

(added) FOOD DONATIONS: Via Occupy West Seattle, two people plan to be “outside on the sidewalk at the Admiral PCC this Wednesday, February 8, noon-2:00 p.m. to collect food for the truckers [who are protesting the Port]. We will take the food to the Labor Temple downtown. Swing by PCC on Wednesday to help us, or to donate a can of something (we will be the ones with a red crate!).”

FIND OUT ABOUT CRUISES: AAA West Seattle and Holland America invite you to a free presentation. 5:30 appetizers, 6:00 pm presentation, at Merrill Gardens-West Seattle (WSB sponsor), 4611 35th Ave SW. RSVP requested, 206.933.4101 or 206.933.4106. Members and non members are welcome!

RESTAURANT CHANGE: Today’s the day Spring Hill Restaurant and Bar in The Junction officially becomes Ma’ono Fried Chicken & Whisky (as reported here last month).

TEEN ZUMBA: The Southwest Teen Life Center is now offering a free class is open to anyone between the ages 11-19. Show up dressed and ready to work out. Zumba Classes are every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month.

SUNRISE HEIGHTS/WESTWOOD UPDATE ON ‘GREEN STORMWATER INFRASTRUCTURE’ PROJECT: King County Wastewater Treatment Division community meeting on the green stormwater infrastructure project to reduce combined-sewer overflows. Meeting’s at Westside School (WSB sponsor), 6:30 pm (details here).

34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS: Our area’s largest political group meets at 7 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy.

AT ARTSWEST: Final week for ll Through the Night; curtain time tonight, 7:30 pm.

(Schmitz Park Bridge at sunset, by Steve Mohundro via the WSB Flickr group pool)
From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

LIBRARY STORY TIMES: Three this morning at libraries in West Seattle (babies/toddlers/preschoolers), and one “family story time” tonight – all listed on the Seattle Public Library Calendar of Events.

TOUR THE ORCHARD: Health and Harvest Tours begin at Community Orchard of West Seattle, 2-4 pm on Tuesdays.

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRAS : Tuesday night is rehearsal night, all detailed here, for returning AND new WSCO musicians; rehearsals at Chief Sealth International High School (2600 SW Thistle).

PATHFINDER K-8 MIDDLE-SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 6-7:30 pm tonight, 1901 SW Genesee. (Full tour/open house schedule on the school home page.)

CHIEF SEALTH IHS PTSA: Tonight’s a general meeting at 7 pm in the school library. The agenda includes updates from the principal and regional director of schools, as well as what the meeting notice describes as: “a facilitated hour-long workshop on communicating with your teen … (with) an interactive experience for all participants.” Tickets also will be on sale for the third annual Seahawk Spirit Dinner and Auction on March 3rd.

WEST SEATTLE HS PTSA: Also meeting tonight, 7 pm, with meeting highlights including updates from the school administration plus the latest on events including Senior Night and the West Seattle 5K.

NIGHTLIFE: Skylark Café and Club acoustic open mic night, starts 7 pm … Rock music/pop culture trivia at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 8 pm … “Geeks Who Drink” pub quiz at The Wing Dome in The Junction, 8 pm … Trivia at The Bridge, $2 registration beginning at 8 pm and play starting at 8:30 pm. … Free pool at Beveridge Place Pub, plus discounts on bottled Belgian beer … Starlight songwriter showcase at Shadowland, 9 pm.

(Early Thursday morning, by Don Brubeck from the WSB Flickr group pool)

BRIDGE CLOSURES THIS WEEK: Again this week, TWO overnight closures of the West Seattle Bridge’s easternmost and westernmost sections are scheduled EACH weeknight, 9 pm-5 am – the eastbound Spokane Street Viaduct (for the SSV Widening Project), east of the 1st Avenue South exit, and the Fauntleroy Expressway (for its seismic-retrofit work), west of the Delridge Way exit. Details on both closures are here.

STAIRWAY WORK IN ALKI: As previewed here on Friday, SDOT plans to start work today on the project to add an upper stairway to the 60th/61st/Spokane connection.

WEST SEATTLE COOKING CLUB:: This week’s meeting info is at westseattlecookingclub.org – 2:30 pm at Beveridge Place Pub, theme “Marinated.”

WEST SEATTLE HI-YU FESTIVAL: Hi-Yu general membership meeting, including pin contest (more details here), 6:30 pm, St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church hall.

VAN HALEN ALBUM PREVIEW PARTY 8 pm tonight at Feedback Lounge, with the folks from Easy Street Records on hand to sell it (details here).

MORE NIGHTLIFE: Trivia with Brian Calvert at Christo’s on Alki, 7 pm … Karaoke with Kelli at Skylark Café and Club, 9 pm … Also at 9 pm, the “Flat Earth Society” weekly vinyl DJ’ing at West 5 features DJ Backbacon (Matt Lukin – alumnus of the Melvins and Mudhoney) … Talarico’s has karaoke @ 9:30 pm.

(Good turnout for Hiawatha pancakes! Photo by WSB co-publisher Patrick Sand)
A few notes for this sunny Super Bowl Sunday in West Seattle:

BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER THE SUPER BOWL: We asked for info on what various venues are up to – and here are the results. A few are closed or curtailing hours; some of course are having Super Bowl parties, or counterprogramming, or afterparties. Anything to add? Let us know. We’ll tweak the list all the way up till gametime.

PANCAKES TILL NOON! Annual Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser continues till noon at Hiawatha Community Center (just north of West Seattle High School). From the announcement: “Come in and eat PANCAKES! All-you-can-eat pancakes with warm maple syrup and melted butter with all you can eat coffee and juice. We will also have ham, sausage, bagels and fruit available in limited portions. All proceeds are applied toward our scholarship fund! $6 (ages 13 and up), $5 (ages 4-12), $4 (ages 65 and up), FREE (3 and under).”

FARMERS’ MARKET: West Seattle Farmers’ Market in The Junction, 44th/Alaska, 10 am-2 pm. Looking for last-minute Super Bowl ideas? Market managers put a great list on their Facebook page – see it here. Also, say hi to Sustainable West Seattle.

DONUT SALE: 34th and Holden – 8-year-old Becca is selling 3 donuts for a dollar, raising money to donate to WestSide Baby. Till approx. 1 pm.

FOOD TRUCK: Snout and Co. (Cuban-influenced) food truck at 35th/Graham, 11 am-3 pm … Contigo at lunchtime in The Junction.

TONIGHT AT SKYLARK: Michael the Blind & the Els from Portland, performing at Skylark Cafe and Club, 7 PM, $5 cover. From their announcement: “The band is comprised of Michael Levasseur who has been playing shows as Michael the Blind for a little over a decade, his wife Rachael Renee’, who rocks the electric autoharp, bass player/wild card Elwood Johncox, and Nathaniel Kees Leigh on drums.” (They have an album due out soon.) (As noted in comments, Skylark is closed because of the Super Bowl – this show rescheduled for April.)

From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

(Refresh for latest “live” view of the eastbound WS Bridge)
*NO* BRIDGE CLOSURES SCHEDULED THIS WEEKEND: Just to reiterate that! Next ones don’t start till 9 pm Monday. (P.S. This WSB report from last night contains SDOT’s report on last weekend’s informational shortcomings – and what will be done to prevent future reruns.)

KIDS’ CLOTHING AND TOY SALE: 9 am to 3 pm in the Social Hall of West Seattle Christian Church. From the announcement: “Come support our young families and find some great clothing, toys, and equipment. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Water Well Drilling Team for 2012. The Water Well Drilling Team will have an informational table at the sale.”

COMMUNITY SCHOOL OF WEST SEATTLE OPEN HOUSE: 10 am-2 pm, 9450 22nd SW. More info on the CSWS home page. (CSWS is having one 10 am-2 pm next Saturday, Feb. 11, too.)

GRAND OPENING WEEKEND: Festivities today (and tomorrow!) at Pink Gorilla Games, 6053 California SW, 11 am-7 pm – snacks, raffle prizes, more. (Read about Pink Gorilla’s WS expansion here.)

CRAFT SALE #1: Freshy’s Coffee is hosting another “Homemade Brigade” craft sale from 10 am until 4 pm. From the announcement: “Local artists, with items ranging from jewelry, knits, prints, soaps, trinkets & such.”

OPEN HOUSE: Open house at Cometa Playschool, 3212 California SW, 10 am-noon – details on the Cometa website.

B & N STORYTIME: Storytime at Westwood Village Barnes and Noble bookstore on Saturdays at 11 am. From the announcement: “We usually do 2-3 stories, and offer treats for the kids. All ages are welcome!”

OCCUPY WEST SEATTLE: Per the announcement published here earlier this week, you’re invited to its meeting 2-5 pm at Alki UCC.

RAISING LANTERNS: Fundraiser at the Seattle Chinese Garden on the north side of South Seattle Community College, 3-6 pm, $20/person at the door.

POETRY WORKSHOP: “The Poetry of Place: Witness the Wise Words of White Center” with Seattle’s Poet Populist and SSCC creative writing teacher Mike Hickey, reading from his new book “A Dress Walked By With a Woman Inside,” as well as conducting a Q-&-A session and leading a workshop in which participants will create their own poetry! 2 pm at White Center Library.

(Photo courtesy Camp Fire; Wolverines members making Valentines for wounded warriors)
CAMP FIRE CANDY SALES CONTINUE: The Wolverines Camp Fire group from Westside School (WSB sponsor) will be selling candy 2-4 pm at West Seattle Thriftway. (Any other groups selling candy in WS this weekend? Let us know and we’ll add your location.)

CRAFT SALE #2: Crafts and Draughts craft/art bazaar at Skylark Café and Club, 4-7 pm, see Facebook invite here.

OWL PROWL: Look for Lincoln Park’s owls with naturalist Stewart Wechsler, 4:30 pm – full details here.

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT: Free admission! “Monsters vs. Aliens” will be shown on 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at Pathfinder K-8, 1901 SW Genesee. Pizza and other concessions available for purchase; proceeds go to the Pathfinder World Travel Program. Donations also accepted. Bring your own chair/blanket.

‘WONDERLAND’: This is described as a belly-dance version of Alice In Wonderland, 7-9 pm at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. Tickets $18/door, kids 12 and under are $10, 5 and uner are free.

FOOD HANDLER’S PERMIT CLASS FOR TEENS: Need a job? Already have one, but need a food handler’s permit? Southwest Teen Life Center has you covered! Every first Saturday of the month Southwest Teen Life Center is hosting (in partnership with Power of Place Programs) food handler’s classes! Free for teens 13-19, 7 pm. For more information stop into the Southwest Teen Life Center! 2801 SW Thistle St.

LIVE MUSIC TONIGHT: Announcement we received from the folks playing Skylark Café and Club:

We get the engines runnin’ with the folksy smokey alt-country talent of STACEY UNCK (9:00)
Then we fire things up with the soulful, fiery, and eclectic styles of CHRISTA SAYS YAY (10:00)
And…just when you think you can’t take the heat, you will blast off to another world with the vibrant, mesmerizing, melodic, space-age rock of
JULIA MASSEY & THE FIVE FINGER DISCOUNT (11:00)

http://www.sonicbids.com/ChristaSaysYay
http://www.sonicbids.com/JuliaMassey
http://www.sonicbids.com/StaceyUnck

LET’S DO THE TIME WARP AGAIN! Monthly “Rocky Horror Picture Show,” shadow casting and all, at Admiral Theater, Saturday night/Sunday morning at midnight.

From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

(Photo courtesy WSSC)
WEST SEATTLE SOCCER CLUB REGISTRATION STARTS: It’s opening day for registration for WSSC’s “Champions League” spring soccer season. Go to westseattlesoccer.org and click the “registration” link on the left side. It’s an 8-game season, April 1-June 10, all games played Sunday afternoons (but no games on Easter, Mother’s Day, or Memorial Day weekend). Registration open for players 5-12, $50 for U-6 and U-7, $60 for U-8 to U-13, includes jersey (player gets to keep it after the season).

GRAND OPENING: Photosynthesis Massage/Boutique, home of Moving Massage, grand opening, 6-9 pm 3225 California SW. From FB: “Come to our grand opening party, to celebrate our newly-renovated, beautiful massage and skin care joint! We will have food, wine, music, art, gift certificates, and amazing jewelry by local artist Penguina Designs …”

WINE TASTING: At Bin 41, from 6-7:30 pm: Reininger, from the Walla Walla Valley. From the Bin: “Swing by to meet Justin Vajgert from the winery as we explore a line-up of Reininger wines with you including a 2000 vintage library wine available for reservation during the tasting only!”

(Photo courtesy Lisa Gluckman)
LIVE THEATER #1: West Seattle High School Drama Club presents “Year of the Duck,” student-directed by Tessa Jinneman, 7:30 pm at WSHS Theater, admission $7 at the door. (3000 California SW)

MARIONETTES: Little Pilgrim School hosts the mother-daughter team of “Puppets Please Marionettes” at 7:00 pm in Fellowship Hall at Fauntleroy Church, 9140 California SW. (www.fauntleroyucc.org ). Child-sized marionettes with lots of audience interaction and participation. Everyone is welcome! As much fun for adults as they are for the kids (and a surprise ending!) $5 per family donation at the door. (206)932-5600.

LIVE THEATER, #2: At ArtsWest – “All Through the Night,” 7:30 pm. Tickets available online or at the box office, which opens today at noon.

MUSIC: 8-10 pm @ Salty’s on Alki, singer/songwriter Barbie Anaka with a mix of classic and contemporary jazz, in the lounge, no cover … 8:30 pm, Dirty Rice with Charlie Heinemann & The Repeat Offenders at The Benbow Room at the Heartland Café – here’s the Facebook event … At Skylark Café and Club, Nine N Out, Whiskey Radio, Skullbot at 9 pm …

BRIDGE CLOSURES CONTINUE TONIGHT: Same pattern as the last four weeknights – Fauntleroy Expressway (info here) and eastbound Spokane Street Viaduct (SDOT announcement here), both scheduled for 9 pm-5 am.

Happy Thursday! From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

BRIDGE CLOSURES CONTINUE TONIGHT: Same pattern as the last three weeknights – Fauntleroy Expressway (info here) and eastbound Spokane Street Viaduct (SDOT announcement here), both scheduled for 9 pm-5 am. Especially with the Fauntleroy Expressway (west end of the bridge) work, the closure zones and effects sometimes shift, so just be sure to allot some extra time if you are planning to use the high-rise bridge in other direction late at night/early in the morning.

LIBRARY STORY TIMES: Three toddler/preschool story times at three library branches in West Seattle between 11 and noon this morning – times/locations on the Seattle Public Library calendar.

WEST SEATTLE MONTESSORI OPEN HOUSE Open house tonight at West Seattle Montessori School (WSB sponsor), 6:30-8 pm. From the announcement: “We currently have five preschool/kindergarten Montessori classrooms, three Montessori first-through-third grade classrooms, a transitional Montessori fourth & fifth grade classroom, as well as a high-school preparatory sixth-through-eighth grade middle school.” All welcome. (11215 15th SW)

MADISON OPEN HOUSE: 6:30-8 pm open house tonight at Madison Middle School (3429 45th SW)

WSHS STUDENT-DIRECTED PLAY: West Seattle High School Drama Club presents “Year of the Duck,” student-directed by Tessa Jinneman, 7:30 pm at WSHS Theater, admission $7 at the door. (3000 California SW)

DENNY MEET-AND-GREET: Denny International Middle School parent and guardian meet-and-greet event at Endolyne Joe’s from 7-9 pm. Sponsored by the Denny PTSA. (9261 45th SW)

NIGHTLIFE: At The Bridge: Free Poker on Thursdays … From Beveridge Place Pub – Full Sail Brewing is featured for “Thirsty Thursday,” with head brewer John Harris on hand, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm.

(Pileated woodpecker digging for termites in a Highland Park utility pole; photo by Mike York)
Our daily preview is often about what’s likely to make news today/tonight, in addition to activities/events from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar, traffic alerts, etc. And indeed, a news preview tops today’s list:

REVISED METRO PROPOSAL DUE OUT TODAY, DISCUSSED IN WEST SEATTLE TONIGHT: Sometime today, Metro is expected to publish its revised “restructuring” proposal for West Seattle’s route system, meant to take effect this September when Rapid Ride Line C launches here. The first proposal circulated late last fall and stirred some controversy by proposing to cut service in some areas; a Metro rep told the Admiral Neighborhood Association in December that the cuts in North Admiral would be softened a bit for this revision, but we haven’t heard any other previews, so we’re awaiting Metro’s release of the full revision (watch here). THEN – Metro is on the agenda to talk about it at tonight’s Southwest District Council meeting, public welcome, 7 pm at the board room at a target=”_blank” href=”http://southseattle.edu”>South Seattle Community College (which is in the Robert Smith building front-center on the campus at 6000 16th SW).

ALSO ON THE SOUTHWEST DISTRICT COUNCIL AGENDA: Councilmember Sally Bagshaw, who chairs the Parks and Neighborhoods Committee (renamed/refocused from last year), is scheduled to visit.

BRIDGE CLOSURES CONTINUE TONIGHT: Same pattern as Monday and Tuesday night – Fauntleroy Expressway (info here) and eastbound Spokane Street Viaduct (SDOT announcement here), both 9 pm-5 am.

AND SPEAKING OF BIG ROAD PROJECTS: The Alaskan Way Viaduct South Portal Working Group meets for the first time in a few months, for a briefing on/discussion of how the tunnel and South End projects are affecting this side of the bay, 4 pm, Sound Transit board room downtown.

EARLY DISMISSAL FOR SEATTLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS STUDENTS: Today is a two-hour early-dismissal day for school staffers’ professional-development work.

ON STAGE IN THE JUNCTION: At ArtsWest – All Through the Night, 7:30 pm. Purchase tickets online, or through the ArtsWest Box Office: 206-938-0339.

GET GROWING: At the West Seattle Tool Library tonight, “Introduction to Indoor Winter Gardening,” 7-9 pm. From the announcement: “There’s no reason to let the cold weather stop your veggie gardening. Learn how to grow an indoor winter garden quickly and easily, as well as how to get things started for the spring ahead.” Instructor is Christina Hahs. Sign up online: http://wstoollibrary.org/calendar/introduction-to-indoor-winter-gardening/

NIGHTLIFE: At 8 pm, it’s weekly Quiz Night at Beveridge Place Pub, explained by BPP as: “This is a weekly event we have been hosting at the pub for about 10 years, it is a great mix of regulars, new players, tough questions and good times. $2.00 a person, teams of 2-6 people. Winning team takes 80% of the pot, 2nd place the other 20%. There’s even a prize for last place, AND beverages that get you “bonus points”!”

TIME TO BUY! Tickets are scheduled to go on sale for Northwest Hope and Healing’s STYLE ’12 tenth annual Look Good, Feel Good, Do Good! fashion show, 7 pm Showbox SODO. nwhopeandhealing.org.

(At Jack Block Park, by Flickr member ‘Old Desolate,’ via the WSB Flickr group pool)
From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

NO WATER TAXI tHIS MORNING: Reminder that the West Seattle Water Taxi is canceled this morning because of mechanical trouble that cut its schedule short last night. We’ll publish an update whenever word comes in that a decision is made for this afternoon/evening.

OVERNIGHT BRIDGE CLOSURES: Scheduled again tonight – Fauntleroy Expressway (info here) and eastbound Spokane Street Viaduct (SDOT announcement here), both 9 pm-5 am.

DENNY INTERNATIONAL MIDDLE SCHOOL TOUR: From 8:00 to 9:10 am. All welcome – no appointment needed. (2601 SW Kenyon)

WEST SEATTLE HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL COFFEE CHAT: Talk about WSHS with principal Ruth Medsker, 9-10:30 am (check in at school office, 3000 California SW).

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRAS: Weekly rehearsals as detailed here for returning AND new musicians; rehearsals at Chief Sealth International High School (2600 SW Thistle).

POWER TOOLS 101: Workshop at the West Seattle Tool Library, 6 pm. From the announcement: “Join instructor Amy Ecklund, as she welcomes you in to the basics of using small powertools such as circular saws, jigsaws, powerdrills, impact drivers, nail guns, and miter saws. As part of the class, you’ll demonstrate what you’ve learned by building a take-home, cedar planter box.” Sign up online.

PATHFINDER K-8 PTSA MEETING: At the school (1901 SW Genesee on Pigeon Point), 6:15 pm.

SANISLO ELEMENTARY PTA MEETING: From the announcement, “We welcome all current and prospective parents. 6:30-7:30 in the school library, child care is provided.” (1812 SW Myrtle)

SEATTLE LUTHERAN HS OPEN HOUSE: It’s open house night at Seattle Lutheran High School: 6:30-8 pm, details here. (4100 SW Genesee)

HOPE LUTHERAN SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: Open house night at Hope Lutheran School (WSB sponsor) – 7-8:30 pm more info on this flyer. (4456 42nd SW)

NIGHTLIFE: Skylark Café and Club acoustic open mic night, starts 7 pm … Rock music/pop culture trivia at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 8 pm … At The Bridge: Trivia every Tuesday, $2 registration beginning at 8 pm and play starting at 8:30 pm.

From “Planet LB” via the WSB Flickr group pool, that’s the new Spokane Street Viaduct section at left, the old one at right, looking east from 4th Avenue South. More bridge closures overnight tonight are part of what’s on the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

OVERNIGHT BRIDGE CLOSURES: Scheduled tonight – Fauntleroy Expressway (info here) and eastbound Spokane Street Viaduct (SDOT announcement here), both 9 pm-5 am.

PROTEST IN THE JUNCTION: Per a news release, “a local resident wearing a Statue of Liberty costume will appear outside Wells Fargo bank” in The Junction 11:30-1:30 to protest the amount of federal income tax WF pays, and as a preview to a rally downtown tomorrow.

WEST SEATTLE COOKING CLUB: Meeting info at westseattlecookingclub.org; 2:30 pm at Beveridge Place Pub, theme “Braised/Slow-Cooked.”

FAMILY STORY TIME: 7 pm at the High Point branch of the Seattle Public Library – details here.

TAI CHI LIFESTYLE: 7 pm Mondays at High Point Neighborhood Center (6400 Sylvan Way SW), Caylen Storm leads “Tao Jin: Foundations of a Tai Chi Lifestyle,” introducing, the announcement says, “basic concepts and movements of Tai Chi, as well as information on diet, mind-set, tools to facilitate a healthy lifestyle based on Tai Chi philosophy, energy regeneration, and the motivation in making positive life changes.” Free to High Point’s SHA and Elizabeth House residents and KCHA Greenbridge residents, otherwise $10 drop-in fee. Questions: caylen_storm@yahoo.com

NIGHTLIFE: Trivia with Brian Calvert at Christo’s on Alki, 7 pm … Karaoke with Kelli at Skylark Café and Club, 9 pm … Talarico’s has karaoke @ 9:30 pm. … Around 10 pm, the “Flat Earth Society” weekly vinyl DJ’ing at West 5 features Randall Dunn (MMOB) & Chris Martin (Kinski, Ampbuzz), plus surprise guests (bartender Don’s birthday celebration)

(Great blue heron on the West Seattle shore, by ‘Old Desolate‘ in the WSB Flickr group pool)
Sunday highlights, from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

TRAFFIC REMINDER – *NO* SCHEDULED BRIDGE CLOSURE: Just in case you missed it – the work that was supposed to close the eastbound Spokane Street Viaduct section of the high bridge us done early – except for one last section of work scheduled for 12:01 am-5 am Monday.

OLG OPEN HOUSE: Our Lady of Guadalupe School Open House, 9 am-1 pm:
3401 SW Myrtle Street, West Seattle
Phone: 206-935-0651
ALSO, view sustainable designed green home model displays at the middle school science fair!

HOLY ROSARY OPEN HOUSE: Holy Rosary School Open House, 10 am-1:00 pm, 4142 42nd Ave SW

AT THE MARKET: West Seattle Farmers’ Market in The Junction, 44th/Alaska, 10 am-2 pm. Here’s what market managers say you’ll find new today:

+ Spot Prawns!!! (via fishing vessel Hat Trick)
+ Wine Sampling (with Rockridge Orchards)
+ River Farm returns w/ ORGANIC chicken
+++BOOTH CANYON’s pears!

HOLY ROSARY PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 10:00 – 1:00, 42nd and Genesee Streets. 3/4 and Pre-K classes

HOLY FAMILY SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 10 am-2 pm, 9615 20th SW

TOSS IT!: West Seattle Ultimate Family Frisbee, Sunday mornings 11 am, Walt Hundley Playfield at High Point.

ANOTHER SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: West Seattle Christian Preschool open house, 1-3 pm, 4425 41st Ave SW

UKULELES IN THE AFTERNOON: The Castaways play ukulele music at C & P Coffee at 3 pm! The group includes two West Seattle-ites, Mark Bader and Pam Mandel.

COOKING CLASS: At the new Mind Unwind in the Admiral District, Freshy’s Coffee proprietor Amber Bennett leads a soup-cooking class – find out about it here (and check to see if any room is left).

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION: West Seattleites involved!
What: LISA KOCH BIRTHDAY BASH with ROXANNA WARD & JENNIE MCNULTY
Who: Lisa Koch, Roxanna Ward, Jennie McNulty and special guests
Where: The Triple Door / 216 Union Street / Seattle, WA 98101
Time: 7:00 pm (doors open at 5:00 pm for dinner)
Price: $18 advance / $20 door
Tickets: www.tripledoor.com / 206-838-4333

FOOD TRUCKS: Snout and Co. food truck at 35th/Graham … check Highland Park Improvement Club site to see if anyone’s there today.

(Friday photo at Seacrest, by Paul Swortz, from the WSB Flickr group pool)
Happy weekend! From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar, here are some of the special events happening today/tonight (and if you’re leaving WS, remember the bridge closure):

MIDDLE-SCHOOL MUSIC-MAKING: Super String Saturday event for middle-school-age instrumental musicians, happening at Chief Sealth International High School, 10 am-1 pm – details here.

EARTHCORPS AT ME-KWA-MOOKS: EarthCorps is hosting an environmental-restoration event at Me-Kwa-Mooks Park, 10 am-2 pm, including invasive-species removal, restoration-site maintenance, and mulching.

CITY HALL OPEN HOUSE: It’s a party for the whole city, 10 am-2 pm today at Seattle City Hall, 5th/Cherry downtown. You’ll find some West Seattleites participating/representing, including reps from local community groups. See the schedule here.

FREE YOGA: Free yoga at WSB sponsor SoundYoga, 10:30-11:45 am.

MENCHIE’S GRAND-OPENING CELEBRATION: Menchie’s Admiral (WSB sponsor; 2620 California SW) is throwing a party all weekend, and donating part of the proceeds to West Seattle Helpline and the West Seattle Food Bank. Freebies today include free T-shirts at 11 am, free frozen yogurt from 11 am–1 pm, free balloon artist 2-4 pm, free waffle bowls 6 pm-9 pm.

RIVERSIDE PLAZA CELEBRATION: Historic West Seattle fishing community celebrates the dedication of a memorial plaza at noon – see this story; all welcome, but you’re advised to carpool, since there’s limited parking.

YES, THAT’S A YACHT RACE: Part of Three Tree Point Yacht Club‘s annual Blake Island Race will be visible from West Seattle shores around midday.

LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION: Join the celebration at the Vietnamese Cultural Center in West Seattle (on SW Orchard north of Home Depot), 1 pm, with lion dance and firecrackers. Public invited! (The center is open noon-3 pm every Saturday.)

CAMP FIRE CANDY SALES: The annual three-week fundraising sale is under way, and the regional council sends word that a Camp Fire middle-school group from Westside School (WSB sponsor) will be selling candy at QFC in Westwood Village 2 pm-8 pm today. (You can also order candy online through the Camp Fire USA website.)

DERBY BRATS AT SOUTHGATE: The Seattle Derby Brats competition-level team (Galaxy Girls) is bouting Kitsap’s Derby Brats 5-7 pm at Southgate Roller Rink in White Center, 5-7 pm. The league includes girls 8 to 17 years old, competing at various levels. The Galaxy Girls are named after their coach, Betty Ford Galaxy, who is a Rat City Rollergirl skater. In addition to a “nominal fee” for admission, per organizers, there’s also a bake sale so the girls can raise money to travel to California for competition.

SOUTH SEATTLE COMMUNITY COLLEGE GALA: The annual “Gifts from the Earth” event is tonight at SSCC, emceed by veteran journalist and TV host Margaret Larson – more details here.

CD RELEASE PARTY: West Seattle musician Philip Mariconda celebrates the release of his double CD “Dream Chasers,” 7-9 PM, at the main social hall at WSUU, 7141 California SW. Free admission, and half the CD-sales proceeds will be donated to the White Center Food Bank. Samples of the music can be heard at www.philipmariconda.com.

Busy morning, but before we get too much further into the day, a few notes for tonight from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

BRIDGE CLOSURES SCHEDULED TONIGHT: The schedules are always subject to last-minute change, but if you are driving late at night, be prepared – we were out around 9:30 last night and this double closure caused backups in both directions. The Fauntleroy Expressway Seismic Retrofit work is scheduled to close the west end of the bridge 9 pm-5 pm (details here); the EASTBOUND Spokane Street Viaduct will also be closed starting at 9 pm and this will last ALL WEEKEND. Details here.

DON’T ASK: Live music at C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor), 6-8 pm.

‘GOT GLEE?’: At Fauntleroy Church, 7:30 pm, another “Sweet, Sweet Music” performance – this time, you’re invited to “share the fascinating journey of Bron Edwards’ musical life with friends and students.” Admission $5, $15/family, including dessert.

JAZZ AND BLUES: At Kenyon Hall, 7:30 pm – Orville Johnson and Casey MacGill. Reserved table seats are $14; row seating $12 general/$10 seniors (discount if you make a reservation – e-mail kenyonhall@earthlink.net).

‘ALL THROUGH THE NIGHT’: 7:30 pm; it’s the second weekend for the new production at ArtsWest in The Junction.

From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

EASTBOUND SPOKANE STREET VIADUCT CLOSURE: Again tonight, this section of the West Seattle Bridge will be closed, starting east of the 1st Avenue South ramp (which will remain open, as will the ramp to northbound 99), 9 pm-5 am. Also remember it’s scheduled to be closed all weekend, 9 pm Friday-5 am Monday. Details here.

OPEN HOUSE #1: Open house marking the grand opening of the Memory Care Community at The Kenney (WSB sponsor), 3:30-6:30 pm – details here

OPEN HOUSE #2: Party at Skin Butik, which has moved from Harbor Avenue to the corner of California and Graham, open house from 5-7:30 pm.

PARENTING WORKSHOP: Tonight is the rescheduled “Parenting with Courage and Connection” workshop, 6 pm, Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 7141 California SW, presented by Jody McVittie, MD. Free. Questions? E-mail Jody@encouragingsolutions.net or call 206 782 1595.

ARBOR HEIGHTS WATER-MAIN WORK: Public meeting in Arbor Heights re: water-main work resulting from the reviews after last August’s fire, 7-9 pm, Arbor Heights Community Church.

FUNDRAISER FOR THE CROHN’S AND COLITIS FOUNDATION OF AMERICA: Join The Beer Church at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) 7 pm tonight for a raffle of Pearl Jam memorabilia and more, benefiting CCFA. Details on The Feedback’s site.

FINANCIAL AID FOR COLLEGE: College Goal Sunday, assistance in filing requests for financial aid for college, Chief Sealth International High School, 7-9 pm.

BAD ART, BAD FASHION: First annual Yen Wor Bad Art and Fashion Show, 8 pm-2 am. Facebook event here.

JANUARY 26: At The Bridge: Free Poker on Thursdays (generally two games, 6:30 pm & 9 pm, check Facebook for updated info)

Quick look at tonight’s highlights, from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

NEW WEST SEATTLE SCHOOL? Rescheduled Seattle Public Schools board meeting with decision on “short-term capacity management,” including a proposal for a new “option” elementary school in West Seattle. 6 pm at district HQ in SODO.

MORGAN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION: Morgan Community Association‘s rescheduled quarterly meeting, 7 pm, lower-level meeting room at The Kenney (WSB sponsor; 7125 Fauntleroy Way SW). All welcome; agenda here.

HIGHLAND PARK ACTION COMMITTEE: Officer elections and a “Nickelsville” encampment followup are part of tonight’s agenda. 7 pm, HP Improvement Club, 12th/Holden.

ALL THROUGH THE NIGHT: 7:30 pm, the second week begins for the new production at ArtsWest in The Junction.

POETRY BRIDGE: Tonight’s the night for the 4th Wednesday Poems & Tales at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 5612 California SW, 7-9 pm. Featured readers: Janee J. Baugher and Danielle Jacobowitz, followed by open mike (sign up at 6:45 pm) for poets and storytellers.

GOOD LUCK! Seattle Sports Star of the Year honorees announced at Benaroya Hall event. Two West Seattleites – Maddie Meyers and Julie Woodward – are up for the “Female Sports Star of the Year” award.