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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks to everybody who’s continuing to share great photos via the WSB Flickr group – that one shows Luna/Anchor Park after last night’s great sunset (other views on Flickr) and it’s by Doug Branch (see a larger version here). Meantime, the new month gets off to a busy start!

TRAFFIC ALERT FOR EVENING COMMUTE: As SDOT has warned, there’s a Seahawks game at 5:20 pm, which will affect downtown/SODO traffic. (P.S. Another reminder, the Water Taxi does NOT have late runs for sporting events in the winter season.)

MENASHE FAMILY CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: The famous lights of Beach Drive are scheduled to go on at 5 pm at te Menashe Family residence, 5600 block. (Here’s our preview.)

MORE WEST SEATTLE HOLIDAY EVENTS/INFO: Updated multiple times daily on the WSB Holidays page (got something to add? editor@westseattleblog.com – thanks!)

MIDDLE SCHOOL INFO NIGHT: Someone in your family entering 5th, 6th or 7th grade next fall? You’re invited to tonight’s information night for Westside School (WSB sponsor), 6-7:30 pm, 7740 34th SW (details here).

SHOP LATE THURSDAYS: Shop Late Thursdays continue in The Junction through the holidays! Till 9 pm; participating merchants (listed here)

AND WHILE YOU’RE SHOPPING … WSB HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE: If you haven’t checked this year’s edition yet – see it here; it includes seven new coupons for local businesses (in addition to the deals on this updated-year-round page).

HOLIDAY GIVING: As previewed here last night, Knows Perfume (4536 California SW) has launched a silent auction to benefit the West Seattle Food Bank – one of many giving opportunities highlighted here.

‘DESIGN REVIEW 101’: This informational session is sponsored by Delridge groups looking ahead to next Thursday’s Design Review meeting about the DESC 75-unit “supportive housing” proposal at 5444 Delridge, but anyone interested in the Design Review process is welcome, 6:30 pm at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW), more info here.

SANISLO ELEMENTARY PTA: Meets tonight at 6:30 pm in the Sanislo library (1812 SW Myrtle). From the announcement: “We especially encourage new incoming families to check out what Sanislo is about. This will be the last PTA meeting for the year.”

CHIEF SEALTH PTSA: Tonight’s also the Chief Sealth International High School PTSA meeting, 7 pm, Galleria (2600 SW Thistle; here’s the agenda).

Will the orcas return? Thanks to Trileigh Tucker for the shot from yesterday (and some of the day’s orca updates). While we’re waiting to see if they do, here’s what’s on the schedule, from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar and West Seattle Holidays page:

TRIANGLE REZONING? Seattle City Council Committee on the Built Environment looks again at West Seattle Triangle rezoning, 9 am, City Hall. Watch live via the Seattle Channel, cable 21 or seattlechannel.org – we’re planning to put the video window up on the home page when the meeting gets to this item (there’s at least one complicated, unrelated item beforehand).

NOVEMBER 30: HEARING LOSS SUPPORT GROUP at Senior Center of West Seattle (California/Oregon), 1-2 pm last Wednesday of the month, starting today.

TAKING OFFICE: Puget Ridge resident Marty McLaren will be sworn in as the new West Seattle school-board rep, 4 pm at district HQ in SODO. (Election results were certified yesterday.)

ROXHILL PARK PLAYGROUND: Tonight is the final design meeting for Roxhill Park Playground, 6 pm, Southwest Library. (Our coverage of the previous meeting is here.)

OPENING NIGHT: Starting tonight, ArtsWest presents the seasonal premiere of “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald and John K. Alvarez. 7:30 pm; ticket info here.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS, TREES, MORE: Again, that’s all on our West Seattle Holidays page.

Hope you had a festive holiday weekend. As we start the week with sunshine promised, here are highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

LIFE’S JOURNEYS: Mondays through December 19th 1-2:30 pm at West Seattle Senior Center. From organizers: “This group will explore the territory we find ourselves in when involved in a significant transition. Are you in a changing time – relationships, housing, health, mobility, losses, retirement, etc? Are you looking for ways to make new connections?” Facilitated by Laurie Becharas, Licensed Marriage and Family therapist, and D’vorah Kost, Licensed Clinical Social Worker Cost: $20/month donation; no one turned away for inability to pay.

REOPEN SCHOOLS? MORE PORTABLES? OR? Those are some of the questions Seattle Public Schools faces in the “capacity management” process under way now, with decisions for next fall to be made soon. Tonight, hear the district’s latest proposals and offer your opinions at Denny International Middle School, 6 pm. Details here.

WEST SEATTLE RESERVOIR PARK: An update is on the agenda for the Parks and Green Spaces Levy Oversight Committee, 7 pm at Parks HQ downtown.

TRAFFIC REMINDER IF YOU TRAVEL THROUGH GEORGETOWN: The big Airport Way project is scheduled to begin today – with a 14-month closure projected.

(Photo by Nette Miller)
This morning’s photo is from last night’s rehearsal of “The Miracle and the Mystery of Advent: Mary’s Journey in Word & Song” at Alki UCC, one of our highlights for today/tonight from the WSB West Seattle Holidays page and West Seattle Events calendar:

TRAFFIC ALERTS: Not in West Seattle, but two big events in the downtown vicinity might affect you today, even if you’re not attending/participating – here’s the alert.

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET: Year-round, so yes, they’re there today! 10 am – 2 pm, The Junction (44th/Alaska). P.S. According to this WSB Forums post, you just might find Santa and Mrs. Claus in the vicinity.

NATIVE HOLIDAY GIFT FAIR, FINAL DAY: Third and final day for the Native Holiday Gift Fair at the Duwamish Longhouse, 10 to 5 – buy unique gifts directly from artists and craft persons. Snacks and beverages available too. Free admission and parking. 4705 W Marginal Way SW; here’s our story from the fair’s first day.

WRAP IT UP: Gift Wrap fundraiser for Sanislo Elementary School, from 10 am- 6 pm at Barnes & Noble/Westwood Village.

SPECIAL EVENTS AT PHARMACA: Demo Day at Pharmaca Integrative Pharmacy (WSB sponsor) in The Junction, 10 am-5 pm (and if you’re going, check out the $10 discount coupon on the WSB Coupons page!)

GLASS JELLYFISH DEMO: At Avalon Glassworks in Luna Park, 11 am-4 pm, glass artist Richard Lowrie is back, sharing the secrets of creating the glass jellyfish, and you are invited to watch live demonstrations throughout the day. Meet the artist, purchase signed work, and watch the process: 2914 SW Avalon Way. More info here.

MUSIC-SYNCHED CHRISTMAS LIGHT SHOW: Nightly shows of the Helmstetler Family Spectacular/West Seattle Lights extravaganza, 3908 SW Charlestown; also fundraising the first weekend for the Kingston Family. Full details here (and here’s our coverage, with video, from last night’s opening ceremony/show).

CHRISTMAS PRODUCTION @ ALKI UCC: “The Miracle and the Mystery of Advent: Mary’s Journey in Word & Song,” 7 pm, in the Alki UCC Sanctuary (6112 SW Hinds). A special musical evening to mark the beginning of Advent: Hear the Christmas story told from the point of view of Mary, her parents and Joseph as we follow their transformation from the Annunciation to starting off on the road to Bethlehem. This is a full production for one night only, combining dialogue and music and a chance to see some of your fellow congregants perform. Suggested donation is $15. Proceeds will go to the West Seattle Food Bank and toward the purchase of new chairs for the church. Refreshments after the show.

HENDRIX BIRTHDAY: Jimi Hendrix birthday tribute at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 9 pm.

Since they’re not visible this morning, here’s another look at the pink-lit snow-sheathed Olympics from Friday morning – this one’s courtesy of JayDee. You don’t quite need a hummingbird’s energy to get to what’s going on today, but the pace is picking up. From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar and West Seattle Holidays page:

‘SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY’: Since “Black Friday” has become mostly a big-chain phenom, “Small Business Saturday” has been promoted as a counterpoint for independent locally owned businesses. Being one of those ourselves, we wholeheartedly encourage the notion of “Small Business Every Day!” (WSB is proud to be a co-founder of Authentically Local); some West Seattle businesses are offering or continuing special deals today; see the list on the Holidays page.

NATIVE HOLIDAY GIFT FAIR CONTINUES: 10 am-5 pm again today at the Duwamish Longhouse, 4705 W Marginal Way SW. We visited yesterday (story and photos here).

WEST SEATTLE BARTER FAIR: This year’s edition of the Sustainable West Seattle-organized event that began as a “money-free shopping spree,” Camp Long Lodge, 4-8 pm, details here

WEST SEATTLE’S LIVELIEST LIGHT SHOW DEBUTS: Tonight is the lighting ceremony for the Holmstetler Family Spectacular/West Seattle Lights, 7 pm, 3908 SW Charlestown, with special guest Zach Scott of the Seattle Sounders; they’re also fundraising the first weekend for the Kingston Family, and there’s an ongoing collection of food items for the West Seattle Food Bank (look for the barrel in front of the house). The official website has even more information (and video highlights from the past two years).

GROWING HAIR TO SAVE LIVES: The mustache-growing men of “Movember” (raising awareness and money to fight men’s cancers) are scheduled to be partying at Mission, 7 pm, and you’re invited.

HOLY ROSARY TREE LOT OPENS: Noon marks the official opening of the Holy Rosary Tree Lot, north of the school at 41st/Dakota, and it’s scheduled to be open till 9. Full details on its official website; information on all of West Seattle’s Christmas tree sites can be found on the Holidays page.

NIGHTLIFE: See a movie without leaving West Seattle! Here’s the Admiral Theater schedule … Steve and Kristi Nebel live at C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor), 6-8 pm … 3 bands live at Skylark (schedule here), 9 pm …

(Photo by Paul Swortz via the WSB Flickr group pool – Harbor Ave sunrise from last week)
The calendar’s quieting down as the holiday approaches, but we have a few things to share:

SCHOOL REMINDER: Seattle Public Schools elementaries have no classes this week – parent/teacher conferences Monday-Wednesday, followed by the Thanksgiving 4-day break.

TURKEYS NEEDED: White Center Food Bank is hoping for more turkeys! They’re already running out of the hundreds collected so far. Here’s our update from Monday; they’re open till 6 tonight at 8th/108th.

LAST DAY FOR JAVA BEAN FOOD DRIVE: Java Bean Organic Coffee House, at 2920 SW Avalon Way, is wrapping up its 21st annual Food Drive for Northwest Harvest, collecting food on site such as stuffing mix, canned yams, cranberries, peanut butter and baby food.

FIRST DAY FOR COAT DRIVE: “Coats for Kids, Pizza for Parkas” charity drive benefiting the Atlantic Street Center starts today at Pizzeria 22 in the Admiral District. Owner Cary says, “We are accepting new or slightly used coats for ages infant to 18 years old. Those who donate will receive a coupon for one free Margherita Pizza. The offer is also good at all Via Tribunali’s and Cornuto Pizzeria as well. We hope to collect at least 200 jackets for those in need.”

**More giving opportunities are listed on the WSB West Seattle Holiday Events and Info page**

GOVERNOR IN WEST SEATTLE: Gov. Gregoire visits South Seattle Community College to talk about how her proposed “supplemental budget” affects education funding, 2:30 pm. (For those who have asked, it’s NOT open to the public. But we’ll be covering it.)

OPEN MIKE: Skylark Café and Club open-mike night hosted by Tekla & Brian of local band BLVD PARK, acoustic-only. Poetry and comedy are encouraged as well as all flavors of acoustic music!

TRIVIA TIME: Rock music/pop culture trivia at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 8 pm

(Westcrest Park photo by Flickr member mriggen, from the WSB Flickr group pool)
From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

SCHOOL’S OUT ALREADY FOR MANY: Most Seattle Public Schools elementary and K-8 schools have no classes this week because of parent/teacher conferences, but as the district calendar points out, it varies by school, so check with yours if you’re not sure.

CAN YOU SPARE A TURKEY (OR TWO)? The West Seattle Food Bank is open to accept donations of frozen turkeys, and other holiday food, 9 am-7 pm today, 35th/Morgan. Lots of other ways to offer holiday help in West Seattle are listed on our WS Holidays page.

CITY COUNCIL BUDGET VOTE: If there’s anything you’ve been watching – today’s the day the council takes its final vote, and one last round of potential changes is linked from the agenda for their 10:30 am meeting.

MENCHIE’S FROZEN YOGURT OPENS: New store’s first day of business after a “friends and family” open last night (WSB coverage here), 2620 California SW, 11 am.

LIFE’S JOURNEYS: Conversation group, 1-2:30 pm at West Seattle Senior Center. This group will explore the territory we find ourselves in when involved in a significant transition. Are you in a changing time—re: relationships, housing, health, mobility, losses, retirement, etc? Are you looking for ways to make new connections? We will share our stories, give and receive support, and learn coping skills and strategies for saying goodby to what was and welcome what may become. Facilitated by Laurie Becharas, Licensed Marriage and Family therapist, and D’vorah Kost, Licensed Clinical Social Worker Cost: $20/month, donation. No one turned away for inability to pay.

WHAT’S THE HIGHEST-PRIORITY SAFETY PROBLEM TO SOLVE ON SEATTLE ROADS? That’s one of three questions you’ll be asked tonight during the mayor and council’s Road Safety Summit West Seattle session, 6 pm, Southwest Community Center, details here.

One last chance to browse the Fauntleroy Fine Art and Holiday Gift Fair – where we found photographers Julie and Terry Eggers – is part of what’s on the schedule today (from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar and West Seattle Holiday Events page):

KICKIN’ IT: West Seattle Sunday Soccer (for adults), 7:30 am, Delridge Playfield.

RUN IN LINCOLN PARK THIS MORNING: Fitness for Vitality “Run to Drums” in Lincoln Park, with kids’ dash too, details here

HELP LINCOLN PARK: Don’t let the rains of November keep you indoors! Get some green exercise with the Friends of Lincoln Park, who will be doing invasive plant removal from 9 am to noon. Dress for warmth, with sturdy shoes or boots. Bring hand clippers and garden gloves, or we’ll have extras. Meet at the kiosk in the north parking lot (Fauntleroy Way SW and SW Rose St).

INDOOR TAI-CHI: Lao-Shi Caylen Storm, a longtime martial arts instructor currently teaching for The Wushu/Tai-chi Center on California Ave. SW, moves class indoor for the winteri. Every Sunday morning at 9 am, $1, at the center, 5659 California SW.

J.F. HENRY HOLIDAY SALE/OPEN HOUSE: 10 am-5 pm, deals and treats (their famous cookies!) at J.F. Henry Kitchen, Tableware and Gifts (WSB sponsor), 4445 California SW in The Junction. Get money off your purchase by using the coupons on their home page – find them here.

‘THE SALLYS’ AT ‘THE MARKET’: The Sallys – City Councilmembers Sally Clark and Sally Bagshaw – host a booth at the West Seattle Farmers’ Market for cider and conversation, 10 am-11:30 am. (Market continues till 2 pm, 44th/Alaska)

PEDESTRIAN SAFETY IN HIGHLAND PARK: From organizers: “If there is an intersection within a mile of Highland Park Elementary that you think needs some pedestrian safety improvements, now’s your time to speak up! And you don’t have to commit to a two day workshop anymore – just show up for one or all of these sessions at Highland Park Elementary (signs will be on the front door showing you the way) :
10:45 – noon: Discussion of Pedestrian Safety, including engineering aspects of different safety measures (crosswalks/lights, etc.)
1 – 2 pm: Discussion of target locations in Highland Park
2 – 4 pm: Field visits to target locations
You can also email your suggestions to: walkhighlandpark@gmail.com.”

FAUNTLEROY FAIR: The 2011 Fauntleroy Fine Art & Holiday Gift Fair concludes 11 am-1 pm today at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW) for the weekend with something for everyone by West Seattle artists.

BLOCKBUSTER ‘FAMILY FUN DAY’: As part of an open-house weekend at Blockbuster (2222 California SW), it’s family day from 12-4 pm, with a bouncy house for the kids as well as crafts and other entertainment.

CONCERT Music Northwest Concert Series 2011 – Russian Masterpieces, 3 pm. EUROPA Ensemble: Leonid Keylin, violin; Mara Finkelstein, cello; Jane Harty, piano. Sonata for Cello and Piano in G Minor-Rachmaninoff; Piano Trio #2-Shostakovich. 3 pm, Olympic Recital Hall at SSCC (6000 16th Ave SW). See website for tickets and more information.

RACKS FOR SACKS: Tracy Dart‘s breast-cancer-battling Team Tracy has organized a benefit – auction and more – tonight at The Bridge (35th just south of Avalon) to benefit not only their cause but the fight against men’s cancer (in conjunction with “Movember”). 6 pm; more details on this Facebook event page.

MOVIE NIGHT/FOOD CARE: Movie Night and food drive at High Point Neighborhood Center, 6 pm – please bring canned food donations! The food drive will benefit Somcare, an organization working in Somalia to help those in need. somcare.org. High Point Neighborhood Association presents “Kung Fu Panda.” Come and enjoy this family movie with your children. 6400 Sylvan Way SW. Enter at the front entrance.

FOOD TRUCKS TODAY: Snout and Co. food truck at 35th/Graham … Damiana’s Blue Truck by West Seattle Convenient Care in The Triangle … 11 am start times (note: schedules subject to change)

(Fall in Schmitz Park, by Mark Bauschke)
Happy Saturday! With business open houses/sales and pre-Thanksgiving giving opportunities, the holiday season is really revving up today. From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

DONATE TURKEYS: White Center Food Bank turkey-donation drive 9 am-7 pm (frozen turkeys, chickens, holiday food); West Seattle Food Bank accepting turkeys and other holiday food, 4-5 pm today (and all day Monday); for more details on donating to both food banks at other times, see our roundup here.

DONATE FOOD AT THE TURKEY BOWL: Beer Church Turkey Bowl charity benefit, 6 pm tonight at West Seattle Bowl; even if you’re not bowling, you are invited to drop off WS Food Bank donations starting at 5:30 pm – last year the event netted a ton and a half of donated food!

GET A FREE TURKEY: If you or someone you know is in need, Eastridge Church is giving away turkeys starting at 9 am today – 500 turkeys and bags of groceries. 39th/Oregon, first come, first served (details here).

Also:

J.F. HENRY HOLIDAY SALE/OPEN HOUSE: 9 am-6 pm today and 10 am-5 pm tomorrow, deals and treats (their famous cookies!) at J.F. Henry Kitchen, Tableware and Gifts (WSB sponsor), 4445 California SW in The Junction. Get money off your purchase by using the coupons on their home page – find them here.

GOT PRE-THANKSGIVING WORK TO DO? West Seattle Tool Library open at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (east side of main building) 9 am – 2 pm Saturday.

JUNCTION TRUEVALUE OPEN HOUSE: Junction TrueValue has its annual holiday open house 10 am-2 pm, with refreshments, prizes, discounts.

NORTHWEST ART AND FRAME OPEN HOUSE: 10:30 am-5:30 pm, the annual Holiday Open House at NW Art and Frame in The Junction (4733 California SW), with live artist demos, open house specials throughout the day, drawings, decorations, samples, treats.

JAMTOWN AT HIGH POINT CC: Fabulous Family Fun Series presentation at 10:30 am at High Point Community Center (6920 34th Ave SW)! JAMTOWN Rhythms, with hands-on music and art for children, families, and music lovers of all ages. Become a part of a percussion instrument ensemble as you explore the music of Africa using handcrafted indigenous musical instruments ($5/person).

FAUNTLEROY FAIR: The 2011 Fauntleroy Fine Art & Holiday Gift Fair continues 11 am-3 pm today at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW) for the weekend with something for everyone by West Seattle artists.

DONATE BIKES, TASTE WINE! Noon-5 pm at South Seattle Community College, it’s WIne & Bikes – donate unneeded bikes/parts, enjoy the new release of NW Wine Academy wine. More details here.

DESSERT WINE EVENT: Cairdeas Winery Special Release Event – 2009 Corcra, a Syrah-based dessert wine. Noon-5 pm, 3400 Harbor Ave, Suite 113. This event is in conjunction with Seattle Urban Wineries Holiday Open House.

PREPARING FOR ‘OCCUPY THE CAPITOL’: West Seattle Neighbors Against the Budget Cuts gathers at noon, Salvadorean Bakery, details here.

DISCOVERY SHOP’S ANNIVERSARY PARTY: Discovery Shop in The Junction (4535 California SW), raising money to fight cancer, celebrates its 21st anniversary, in The Junction. Refreshments are served 1 – 3 p.m. and all clothing is 2 for 1.

LAST CHANCES TO SEE ‘BEAN’: “Bean: The Musical Fruit” musical for kids of all ages, at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, 2:00 and 6:00 pm.

BLOCKBUSTER OPEN HOUSE: Weekend of special events at the Blockbuster store (2222 California SW). Today, they’re hosting a game tournament, featuring the newly released Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 at 4 pm. Entry is free with first-prize winner earning 6 months of unlimited movie/game rentals.

HUMANE SOCIETY FUNDRAISER: Charity Shopping & Silent Auction from 6-8 pm, at Pet Elements in Morgan Junction. Great event to help raise money for Seattle Humane Society! Bid on all sorts of gifts and certificates to awesome local businesses. Or, just come to shop. Pet Elements will be donating back 10% of all sales during event.

‘THE ROAD TO HIGH STREET’: At Kenyon Hall at 7:30 – Andrew Potter in “The Road to High Street“: Digital stories, music and video from a San Francisco street performer. Visit theroadtohighstreet.com for more information.

’80S FLASHBACK ADULT PROM AT SEALTH: Awesome ’80s Flashback Adult Prom at Chief Sealth International High School, to support the Class of 2012 Prom and Grad Night. Entire West Seattle community invited! 8-10 pm; details here.

FOOD TRUCKS TODAY: 3 food trucks back at Highland Park Improvement Club (12th/Holden), 11 am, list here; Marination Mobile at 35th/Graham, 11 am-2 pm.

Thanks to Max for the photo looking out over downtown late last night. The clouds haven’t brought those rumored snowflakes so far, but the chance remains in the forecast. From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

WEST SEATTLE GARDEN CLUB: Monthly meeting, 10 AM to 2 PM at Daystar Retirement Village (WSB sponsor), 2615 SW Barton St., Building #1. Registration and social time first, then business and the morning study program at 10:30 AM, Julie Gramm will share a collection of Basket Weaving Projects made by her mother Barbara Gramm. Commentary on the design and horticulture exhibits will follow. Lunch is at noon, brown bag with dessert and beverage provided by the club. It will be “Coming up Roses” for the afternoon program at 1 PM, when “consulting rosarian” Margaret Harris shares her love of roses. She will also touch on “Shakespeare in the Garden”. Visitors are welcome. Donation $5.

AFTERNOON DANCE: Dance to the music of Lauren Petrie at Delridge Community Center, 1:30-3:30 pm

MENASHE AND SONS JEWELERS’ EVENING EVENT: Event at Menashe and Sons Jewelers (WSB sponsor) tonight. You’re invited into their Junction store (4532 California SW) in for hors d’oeuvres, bubbly, and Bakery Nouveau cake, 5-9 pm.

FAUNTLEROY ART/GIFT FAIR BEGINS: The 2011 Fauntleroy Fine Art & Holiday Gift Fair takes over Fellowship Hall at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California Avenue SW) for the weekend with something for everyone by West Seattle artists. 5-8 pm tonight (continuing tomorrow and Sunday); more details here.

STORYTELLING: Storytelling event at White Center Cultural Center (9421 18th Avenue SW), 5:30 pm, “Stories from a Filipino Life” with Chris Genese, an organizer with Washington Citizen Action Network.

TASTE SPANISH WINES: Bin 41 weekly wine tasting: Spanish wines from Frontaura y Victoria.

3 MORE CHANCES TO SEE ‘BEAN’: The original musical “Bean: The Musical Fruit” – for kids of all ages! – continues at 7 pm tonight, and 2 and 6 pm tomorrow, at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. Come early to meet, and take photos with, the characters!

MUDPIES AND LULLABIES: 7:30 pm at Kenyon Hall, 7904 35th Ave SW: (trio) lexicon presents — Mudpies and Lullabies: a guide to growing up. (trio) lexicon is a collaboration between Madeline and Richard Bersamina (vocalists) and Christina Bach (piano). Drawing on songs by Leonard Bernstein, Mozart, Mister Rogers and Sesame Street and poetry by Shel Silverstein and Lewis Carroll, this evening of singing and stories chronicles childhood and coming of age.

DONKEY BASKETBALL: Fundraiser tonight at West Seattle High School gym, 7 pm, adults $9/students $7, kids (K-6) $5. Teacher team vs. student team.

(Photo by Steve Mohundro, via the WSB Flickr group pool)
One week till Thanksgiving! From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

BANK PARTY: Umpqua Bank (WSB sponsor) in the Admiral District has been open a few weeks, but officially celebrates its grand opening today, 9 am – 6 pm, with local food and drink.

DELRIDGE DESC FUNDING: Joint Recommendations Committee considers Delridge DESC project’s county funding, 9:30 am, Mercer Community Center on Mercer Island (more information at delridgeforum.blogspot.com)

WEST SEATTLE DEMOCRATIC WOMEN: Want to learn how the “redistricting” of our state will change its political climate? Tim Ceis, Senate Democratic Appointee to the State Commission, speaks at the West Seattle Democratic Women luncheon meeting today at West Seattle Golf Course. Registration is from 11:15-11:30 am; program from 11:30 am-1 pm. $12/members; $15 nonmembers (or the minimum fee of $5, which includes coffee/tea and dessert). Call (206) 935-3216 to check on space availability.

GOT A BAND? MEET THE SKYLARK BOOKERS: From Skylark Café and Club: “Bands cancelled (tonight) so Skylark is doing a Meet & Greet with Jessie and Mackenzie, the booking agents. Bring your press kit and tell them about your band. 5-7 pm. Afterwards we will play vintage vinyl on the turntables and you will drink beer.”

COMMUNITY SAFETY COALITION: South Delridge/White Center Community Safety Coalition meets to discuss crime and safety issues in the area, St. James Annex, 9421 18th SW, 6 pm.

UNDERSTANDING LONG TERM CARE OPTIONS: Seminar hosted by Merrill Gardens at West Seattle (WSB sponsor), 4611 35th SW, 6 pm. Having difficulty understanding which long-term-care option is best for you or your loved one? You are not alone! Local experts will be on hand to help you better understand the difference between retirement living, assisted living, adult family home and skilled nursing facilities. Check availability – call Colleen at (206) 932-5480.

METRO CHANGES: Second and final scheduled meeting to talk about Metro’s future and “restructuring” the route system in West Seattle, 6:30 pm, Madison Middle School (details here). Note that this is scheduled to be open-house format, as was the first meeting last week (WSB coverage here), so there is no presentation – Metro managers are taking comments and answering questions on a one-to-one basis.

DESIGN REVIEW: Southwest Design Review Board’s second meeting to consider 3261 SW Avalon Way, 6:30 pm at WS Senior Center (California/Oregon) – here’s our report about the first meeting back in July.

ALKI COMMUNITY COUNCIL: Monthly meeting at 7 pm, Alki UCC (6112 SW Hinds).

‘BEAN’: Original family musical “Bean: The Musical Fruit” continues at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW) tonight at 7. Tickets: Adults: $7; $5 student (present ID at will-call); $5 children 12 and under. Tells the tale of a character who just doesn’t quite fit in, finding her way in the world.

SHOP LATE THURSDAY: Happening Thursday nights in The Junction through the holidays. Till 9 pm; participating merchants are listed here.

AT CLICK! DURING ‘SHOP LATE THURSDAY’ TONIGHT: Poppi jeweler Dawn Benedetto and “Meat Lover’s Meatless Cookbook” author Kim O’Donnel at Click! Design That Fits (WSB sponsor) in The Junction. 6-9 pm.

Thanks to Machel Spence for the image of blooming moss in the Lincoln Park frost. A “special weather statement” warns that we might see a rain/snow mix in showers later this week. On to what’s up today/tonight – from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

TRIANGLE REZONING: The City Council’s Committee on the Built Environment takes up the West Seattle Triangle rezoning proposal, 9 am, City Hall. They’re not expected to vote today but may do so later this month. We’ll have a separate story up when the meeting gets under way, with Seattle Channel‘s video feed if you’d like to watch the meeting – it’s the last item on the agenda and we won’t put the feed up till it’s getting close, but you can check in on the feed sooner if you want; just go here.

WHITE CENTER DEVELOPMENT’S GRAND OPENING: At 3 pm today, tours and speeches will celebrate the grand opening of Unity Village (formerly Strength of Place Village, co-developed by West Seattle-based Delridge Neighborhoods Development Association).

YARROW SPA GRAND OPENING: 5962 Fauntleroy Way SW is the new home of Yarrow Spa, and they’re inviting you to come celebrate tonight, 4:30-7:30 pm. The opening will feature bites by chef Robin Leventhal, Babycakes by Cupcake Royale, plus specials and giveaways. From the announcement: “Yarrow Spa features 100% organic edible ingredients in all treatments and services.”

SAVVY SEATTLE WOMEN: They’re hosting the free workshop “Short Sales, Foreclosures and You,” with West Seattle real- estate lawyer Sharon E. Best presenting information and answering questions about how short sales and foreclosures can affect you, your credit, and your ability to buy or sell a home. 6-7:30 pm at the Prudential NW Realty office in Jefferson Square, 4700 42nd SW. No registration required; just show up. Info at Facebook.com/SavvySeattleWomen or call 206-708-9800.

DELRIDGE NEIGHBORHOODS DISTRICT COUNCIL: Tonight’s monthly meeting will be highlighted by a discussion of the Delridge Way SW “boulevard” concept, with City Councilmembers Tom Rasmussen and Sally Bagshaw. 7 pm at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center.

Not the first morning in which windshield-scraping was required, but maybe the iciest. The weather’s changing, though: A “special weather statement” says wind might be on the way tomorrow; we’ll keep an eye on that as the forecast evolves later today. … On to the highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

HEART-HEALTHY COOKING: “Simple Cooking with Heart” demonstration at Delridge Community Center, 11 am-1 pm, sponsored by the American Heart Association and WalMart Foundation (4501 Delridge Way SW).

DANCE WITH THE WEST SEATTLE BIG BAND: USO Dance 7-9 pm, co-sponsored by The Kenney (WSB sponsor) at the Senior Center of West Seattle (California/Oregon). Dance music by West Seattle Big Band. Snacks and beverages available; ’40s attire encouraged; $5/person.

BOARD GAMES: The new West Seattle-based board-game group that’s met recently on Sundays is trying a weekday-evening meeting tonight: 7 pm, Beveridge Place Pub. Questions? Contact Gene at egene1@yahoo.com – there’s also an online group:
groups.yahoo.com/group/wsgamers

SUPERINTENDENT SEARCH, OR NOT? Eight months after appointing Dr. Susan Enfield as interim Seattle Public Schools superintendent, the School Board is deciding whether to conduct a national search for a permanent superintendent – but first, it wants to hear about ” traits that members of the public would like to see in a Superintendent, so the board and citywide PTSA are hosting meetings including one tonight at 7 pm at Denny International Middle School. Child care available.

METRO POLICE CHIEF @ CRIME COUNCIL: Metro Transit Police Chief Lisa Mulligan is the guest as the West Seattle Crime Prevention Council meets, and local police will discuss crime trends as usual, plus there’s an opportunity for community crime concerns. Southwest Precinct (Webster/Delridge), 7 pm.

DIY WREATH-MAKING: At Highland Park Improvement Club (12th/Holden), 7 pm. “Monica Cavagnaro will share ideas on themes, shapes, decorations and how-to’s! Participants bring: Greens: ivy, wisteria, evergreen … Decor: pine cones, ribbon, yarn, bulbs, berries, bells … Tools: wire, nippers, string”

NIGHTLIFE: Monthly Alauda belly-dance showcase at Skylark Café and Club, 7:30 pm … Rock music/pop culture trivia every Tuesday night at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 8 pm … Open mike at Mac’s Triangle Pub (Delridge/16th), 8 pm … Songwriters’ showcase at Shadowland, 9 pm.

(Tom Kelley photographed the junco on Gatewood Hill last week – thanks for sharing!)
From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

ROXHILL SKATESPOT: As previewed here again last night, new design alternatives for the Roxhill Park Skatespot will be shown tonight at Southwest Library, 6 pm.

NORTH DELRIDGE: Officer elections and a DESC-project update lead off the agenda for tonight’s North Delridge Neighborhood Council meeting, 6:30 pm, Delridge Library.

ROXHILL PTA Roxhill Elementary‘s PTA meets at 6:30 pm in the Roxhill cafeteria, 6:30 pm. Child care will be provided during the meeting.

SEWER-FACILITY DESIGN: Murray (Lowman Beach) CSO project design open house, Fauntleroy Church, 6:30 pm – details in our preview.

NIGHTLIFE: Among your Monday night options: Bingo at Alki UCC Church, doors at 5:30/play starts 6:30 … Jacob Lakatua Quartet at Löcöl, 7:30 pm … Waxy Monday vinyl-spinning guest-DJ action at West 5 (details here) … Trivia with Brian Calvert at Christo’s on Alki, 7 pm … Karaoke with Kelli at Skylark Café and Club, 9 pm

FOOD TRUCKS ADD ANOTHER NIGHT: For those following the evolving West Seattle food-truck scene, Highland Park Improvement Club says Lumpia World and Charlie’s Buns will be there (12th/Holden) for dinner Mondays, starting tonight, 5-8.

(Fall colors on Harbor Avenue, from Drew Atkins)
Happy Sunday! From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

HAPPENING NOW: The Holy Rosary Daisy Scout Troop will be hosting a bake sale all morning long. Look for the tent on the corner of 42nd/Genesee by the church steps. The fundraiser is giving part of their proceeds to homeless veterans in King County through the American Legion www.legion.org/auxiliary. Kamila Kennedy tells us, “The first graders have made beautiful patriotic signs and are baking away for Sunday. Come see us and support this event!”

ST. JOHN’S ARTS/CRAFTS SALE: St. John’s Arts & Crafts Co-Op Fall/Holiday Sale in the Parish Hall. St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, northeast corner of California/Hanford. ALL proceeds go directly to outreach, both locally and globally. A wide range of handmade items. Checks or cash only. Raffle (need not be present to win), and you’re invited to bring a donation for the West Seattle Food Bank. saintjohnonline.org

WHAT’S NEW AT THE FARMERS’ MARKET: West Seattle Farmers’ Market, 10 am – 2 pm, The Junction (44th/Alaska): Palouse Pastured Poultry is bringing organic turkeys today, since market managers say most of their regular vendors already have sold their Thanksgiving-season turkeys.

CURIOUS KIDSTUFF SALE: Big pre-holiday sale in The Junction — 11 am-5 pm, 25 percent off everything in stock @ Curious Kidstuff (WSB sponsor).

(added) OPEN HOUSE: West Seattle Natural Medicine, 3256 California Ave SW, 11 am-3 pm, has an open house today introducing Dr. Arika Dortero, ND, CLE, who will be providing pediatric/family care at the clinic.

‘THE ART OF LOVE’: Fundraiser for animal-advocacy group Furry Faces Foundation, wine and auction, Ola Salon (2942 Avalon Way), all ages welcome, admission free, bring $ for auction items and donations, 3-6 pm, details here.

SPECIAL BICYCLE EVENT IN WHITE CENTER: DubSea Bikes, 2-4 pm in downtown White Center, free repair event, details here.

NIGHTLIFE: V + The Noise with special guest Alessandra Rose, live at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor) tonight at 7, to be video-recorded for a Kickstarter event … At Skylark Café and Club, the Tilted Thunder Railbirds Talent Show takes the stage at 8 pm (all ages) … The Bridge has Sunday karaoke tonight with Kelli at 9:30.

(Colleen Cooke and Terri Glaberson with CoolMom Toy Sale donations, pre-sorting!)
Busy, busy Saturday! Highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

COOL MOM HOLIDAY TOY SWAP AND SALE: 9 am-2 pm, Fauntleroy Church, proceeds also benefit WestSide Baby. From CoolMom’s Terri Glaberson: “After months of preparation and gathering toys from the generous West Seattle communities and beyond, we have a stellar sale planned. There are mounds of books, games, puzzles, Legos, dolls and much more! The gently used toys seem extra stellar this year.”

ST. JOHN’S ARTS/CRAFTS SALE: St. John’s Arts & Crafts Co-Op Fall/Holiday Sale. 9 am-3 pm in Parish Hall. St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, northeast corner of California and Hanford. ALL proceeds go directly to outreach, both locally and globally. A wide range of handmade items available for purchase. Your purchase can make a very real difference in our community. Checks or cash only. We will have a raffle (need not be present to win), and we invite folks to bring a donation for the WS Food Bank. Handicap-accessible. www.saintjohnonline.org

OPEN HOUSE: The Cove School open house, 9 am. Toddler program accepting children 18 months -3 years old and a preschool/Pre-K program for 3-5 year olds next fall. Call 206-923-COVE for last-minute RSVP.

HOLIDAY BAZAAR AT THE MOUNT: Providence Mount St. Vincent is having its annual Holiday Bazaar today, 10 am to 4 pm, 4831 35th Avenue SW. Holiday gifts, collectibles and much more. Proceeds benefit The Mount’s resident programs and services.

LANDSLIDE PROTECTION: Free event sponsored by the city, teaching simple ways to protect yourself/your property from landslide problems, 10 am-noon, South Seattle Community College, Judge Warren & Nobie Chan Education Center, 6000 16th Ave. SW (across from the north parking lot).

‘FALL FORWARD’ AT WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Fall Forward with SCALLOPS, hosted by Sustainable West Seattle at the tool library, 10 am-2 pm, with mini-workshops including: Starting a Tool Library, Community Kitchens, Neighborhood Greenways.

NORTH DELRIDGE CLEANUP: This one is focused on fallen leaves (how timely, after last night’s storm)! 10 am-noon, meet at Delridge Community Center, more info on this Facebook event page

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE: The famous annual Holiday Open House at West Seattle Nursery (California/Brandon) is today, 11 am-3 pm. Among the perks: Free espresso!

STUDENTS COMPETE : Not in West Seattle, but if you or someone in your family is interested in robotics, there’s a festival today at Coe Elementary on Queen Anne with three teams from Lafayette Elementary‘s new club LaSER (Lafayette Science, Engineering, & Robotics) competing. Matt Jensen is coaching the Mystic Mindstormers and LEGO Minds, and Chris Burris is coaching Mega LaSER. Thanks to Matt for sharing the news and this link with the schedule, map, and other info. (Good luck!)

HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEMBERSHIP MEETING AND POP-UP MUSEUM: Noon-2 pm at West Seattle (Admiral) Library branch, including a presentation by a graduate student on the concept of a “Pop-Up Museum” – bring an object that relates to the theme of “Thanksgiving,” to share with others during the meeting (then you can take it home), to help create the “Pop-Up Museum”! More at
loghousemuseum.info.

GET HEALTHIER: Health Fair today, 1-3 pm: High Point Community Center (6920 34th Ave. SW). An interactive health fair with exhibits for the whole family. Come enjoy learning about health concerns such as diabetes, prenatal care, exercise, accessing health care, dental care, and more. Free food, as well as give-aways throughout the fair.

MUSIC AND COFFEE: Grand opening celebration for Caffè Delia till 2 pm, inside Proletariat Pizza in White Center, 9622A 16th Ave SW. Music starts at 11ish with Squirrel Butter, Casey MacGill’s Blue 4 Trio, Del Rey.

VETERANS APPRECIATION DINNER: Free Prime Rib and Ham dinner for all West Seattle veterans and guests. 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm at American Legion Post 160, 3616 SW Alaska. Space is limited. To RSVP, please call Calvary Chapel West Seattle (sponsor) at 206 935-4487 or e-mail calvaryws@comcast.net.

HIGHLAND PARK FOOD TRUCKS: Highland Park Improvement Club says Lumpia World has confirmed they will be back after missing two weeks, and that Curry Now and Charlie’s Buns are joining them today, 11 am-2 pm (12th/Holden).

KILLER WHALE TALES GALA: West Seattle-headquartered educational program Killer Whale Tales invites you to its 11th Anniversary Gala Celebration Dinner & Benefit Auction at the Duwamish Longhouse, 4705 W. Marginal Way SW. Northwest-inspired dinner, local beers and wines, and fantastic entertainment. 21+. Doors open at 6 pm. “Tucker” the orca-research dog is a guest star!

CONTINUING TONIGHT AT YOUNGSTOWN: “Bean: The Musical Fruit,” an original family musical having its world premiere at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, starting an eight-show run continuing through November 19th. Synopsis: “‘Bean: The Musical Fruit’ starts in the perfectly sculpted Patch. Every harvest, Mayor Tom A. Toe divides the Patch responsibilities based on two groups: fruits and vegetables. This year presents a challenge as Bean seems to be neither. Facing rejection, Bean and her best friend, Cel, set-off on a journey for answers from the reclusive and mysterious Nutty that lives in the Orchard. Bean and Cel ask what it means to belong, even when you’re different.” Doors open at 6:30, showtime at 7, come early to meet the characters (photo-taking encouraged).

TONIGHT AT KENYON HALL: Award-winning original roots bluegrass group Kathy Boyd & Phoenix Rising perform at Kenyon Hall, 7904 35th Avenue SW, 7:30 pm. Reserved table seats are $14. Row seating is $12 general and $10 seniors. With a reservation, row seating is only $10 general and $8 seniors. Elementary, middle, & high school students are $5. Pre-school children are free, and Root Beer Floats are still only a dollar. To make a reservation, please e-mail kenyonhall@earthlink.net.

LAST SHOWS FOR ‘EVIL DEAD’: Closing night at ArtsWest Playhouse & Gallery for “Evil Dead: The Musical,” 7:30 and 11 pm.

(Photo by David Hutchinson)
From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

VETERANS DAY: No school, no Water Taxi, reduced-weekday schedule for Metro, no USPS mail delivery, most government offices closed, most banks closed. City trash service is on a regular schedule; state liquor stores are open. … All Uptown Espresso stores (including The Junction and North Delridge) donate revenue today to American Lake Veterans’ Golf Course – details here

HOLIDAY BAZAAR AT THE MOUNT: Providence Mount St. Vincent is having its annual Holiday Bazaar today (and tomorrow)! 10 am to 4 pm, 4831 35th Avenue SW. Holiday gifts, collectibles and much more. Proceeds benefit The Mount’s resident programs and services.

JUNCTION FOOD TRUCK POD: 1 truck scheduled for lunch today (11 am), 3 for dinner, at the food truck pod in The Junction (California/Edmunds; schedule here)

ROXHILL ELEMENTARY BENEFIT BOOK FAIR: Roxhill Elementary School Book Fair @ the Westwood Village Barnes and Noble from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Portion of book-sales proceeds benefit Roxhill. Also fun activities including Story Time with Roxhill’s Librarian Pat Bliquez, Principal Carmela Dellino, and Head Teacher Chris Robert; face painting; scavenger hunt; poetry jam; refreshments. If you can’t attend, you can support the school with B&N online purchases – through Nov. 18, enter Bookfair ID #10562619 at checkout.

HOPE LUTHERAN/SEATTLE LUTHERAN AUCTION/GALA: “Light Up the Night for Our Kids” benefit auction for Hope Lutheran School and Seattle Lutheran High School, at SLHS Gym (details here; we published a preview here).

WINE TASTING Bin 41 weekly wine tasting in The Junction, 6-7:30 pm. Tonight: Washington Wine Medley – take two! Showcasing wines from five local wineries.

TONIGHT AT KENYON HALL: At 7:30, it’s the legendary folk duo Reilly and Maloney. Tickets are available at Brown Paper Tickets. For more information, please visit www.reillyandmaloney.com.

LIVE MUSIC: The Bridge has live music at 9:30 pm: Petting Zoo, a rock-n-roll cover band. No cover charge.

(Eagle photographed at Alki Point by Gary Jones last Sunday morning)
Good morning! From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

CITY COUNCIL BUDGET VOTES: The “Fauntleroy Way Green Boulevard” study is part of what’s on the agenda for final votes, 9:30 am (agenda here). Happening at City Hall, and live on Seattle Channel (cable 21 and online).

FLAG-RAISING: In honor of Veterans Day tomorrow, there’s a flagraising ceremony today at South Seattle Community College (here’s our previously published preview).

WEST SEATTLE ART WALK: Tonight’s the night – 6-9 pm, dozens of venues from north to south, west to east, across the peninsula. We previewed some of them last night – take a look here – and see even more previews on the official WS Art Walk site! The walking map/participant list is here.

SHOP LATE THURSDAYS: It’s also another “Shop Late Thursday” in The Junction. Till 9 pm, participating merchants (listed here)

DUWAMISH VALLEY HEALTHY COMMUNITIES: The eastern half of the West Seattle peninsula is part of the area targeted by the new Duwamish River Cleanup Coalition-led effort announced last week – to partner with communities to work toward healthier air, water, lifestyles, etc. Tonight, everyone interested is invited to the Duwamish Valley Healthy Communities kickoff, 6 pm at South Seattle Community College’s Georgetown campus (6737 Corson Avenue South).

THE ART OF … ADOPTION: Friends of the Animals Foundation will be at Next to Nature with adoptable cats and kittens during the November Art Walk, Thursday the 10th, between 6 and 9 pm. Adoption fees will be reduced. Contact info@fafseattle.org or (206) 719-4864

ARBOR HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY AUCTION TONIGHT: From the announcement we received: “The Arbor Heights Elementary Community will gather at The Hall at Fauntleroy for the PTA’s 3rd Annual Dinner & Auction ‘Adventure is Out There’. Our goal is to raise $40,000, which provides 70% of the PTA’s annual income. This year’s auction focus is Science & Technology; to update/replace computer equipment and software and enhance the science curriculum. Other funds raised will go towards the General Fund which supports classroom programs such as Kindergarten Aides, Teacher Stipends and Field Trip Scholarships & Buses, School programs such as Safety Patrol, Emergency Preparedness and Assemblies, Arts programs such as Artist in Residency and Instrumental Music and Community Building programs such as Welcome Family BBQ and Young Author’s Day. For more information about the auction and to preview the auction catalog, please visit arborheights.wikispaces.com/AHPTA+Annual+Auction.”

SOUTHWEST SEATTLE BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL WOMEN: Tonight, Seattle-based designer Kathleen Bohlken is the guest, talking about new ideas for decorating home/office for the holidays. 6-8 pm at Angelo’s Italian Restaurant, 601 SW 153rd in Burien.

OPENING TONIGHT AT YOUNGSTOWN: “Bean: The Musical Fruit,” an original family musical having its world premiere at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, starting an eight-show run continuing through November 19th. Synopsis: “Bean: The Musical Fruit starts in the perfectly sculpted Patch. Every harvest, Mayor Tom A. Toe divides the Patch responsibilities based on two groups: fruits and vegetables. This year presents a challenge as Bean seems to be neither. Facing rejection, Bean and her best friend, Cel, set-off on a journey for answers from the reclusive and mysterious Nutty that lives in the Orchard. Bean and Cel ask what it means to belong, even when you’re different.” Doors open at 6:30, showtime at 7, come early to meet the characters (photo-taking encouraged).

FOOD BANK BENEFIT ‘GOBBLER’ ON SALE: Hotwire Online Coffeehouse (WSB sponsor) now donating $1 to the West Seattle Food Bank for every “Gobbler” drink purchased – read about it here.

FOOD DRIVE UNDER WAY: Java Bean Organic Coffee House at 2920 SW Avalon Way launches its 21st annual Food Drive for Northwest Harvest, collecting food on site till Tuesday, November 22nd: “Thanksgiving type foods such as stuffing mix, canned yams, cranberries, peanut butter and baby food are most appreciated.”