(A regular visitor to photographer Melanie Dixon‘s feeder)
No rain, no snow – yet! (Saturday night is the earliest forecast mention) – so it should be a perfect night for the West Seattle Art Walk, if the forecast holds true. From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

‘KING TIDES’ AGAIN: Another round of ultra-high high tides (here’s the chart) – this morning, 12.7 feet as of minutes ago (7:17 am), next two mornings, a bit higher.

LITTLE PEPPERS: Two children under three in the family? 10 am today, it’s the first class in a new session of Little Peppers, meeting at West Seattle Bright Horizons, 4530 38th Ave SW – details here.

WEST SEATTLE ART WALK, JANUARY EDITION: For previews of specific venues and artists, check out the official Art Walk site – tonight’s highlights will include Twilight Artist Collective‘s 7th-anniversary celebration – 6-9 pm at dozens of venues around the peninsula.

WINE TASTING AND LIVE MUSIC: Second Thursday of the month, that’s what you’ll find at C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor), 5612 California SW, 6 pm – 8 pm. You’re welcome to bring an appetizer to share! Tonight, Choro Tocando and the music of Brazil. $5 tasting fee, or wines by glass or bottle.

ASK-AN-EXPERT AT WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: 6-8 pm tonight, 4408 Delridge Way SW (east side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center), see our preview from last night.

WEST SEATTLE LITTLE LEAGUE SIGNUPS: First in-person registration session for West Seattle Little League, 6-8:30 pm at West Seattle High School (3000 California SW), more info here.

ADVISORY GROUP: Design Advisory Group for the Murray CSO project meets, Fauntleroy Church, 6:30 pm (more info here).

LIVE MUSIC: Alma Villegas performs at Shadowland, 4458 California SW, 8 pm-11 pm. No cover.

OVERNIGHT PARTIAL BRIDGE CLOSURE: 9 pm-5 am, another Fauntleroy Expressway closure is scheduled as the seismic-retrofit work continues.

GARAGE SALE FANS, MARK YOUR CALENDARS: West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day (sponsored by WSB for the fifth consecutive year) is exactly four months away – May 12th. Way too soon to register, but we’ll give you plenty of advance warning!

We hear traffic is worse than usual again today. Certainly the sunrise would have been some distraction an hour ago; no other obvious causes, but we’re still monitoring. Thanks to Brian for sharing the photo via Twitter. As for the day/night ahead – from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

BRIDGE CLOSURE SCHEDULED: Fauntleroy Expressway overnight closures

AT THE LIBRARIES: Seattle Public Library story times – here’s the citywide list, including what’s happening in West Seattle today.

GOT A LITTLE ONE? Baby Peppers class starts up! 10:30 am at Bright Horizons in The Triangle. Details here.

ANNUAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEETING: West Seattle Chamber of Commerce annual meeting, 11:30 am, Neighborhood House‘s Neighborhood Center in High Point (details here). If you haven’t already RSVP’d, contact the Chamber ASAP to see if there’s still room.

WALKING TOUR TO TALK ABOUT TRANSPORTATION ISSUES IN NORTH DELRIDGE: Take a North Delridge walking tour with city reps, 3 pm; meet outside Delridge Community Center, more info here

LIVE MUSIC AT AVALON: Pourquoi Pas plays tonight, 6:30, at Avalon (which is celebrating its first anniversary this month).

GO GREEN IN THE NEW YEAR: West Seattle CoolMom meets: We’ll be discussing our New Year’s resolutions for greening our lives and lowering our carbon footprints. Bring your stories and ideas. We’d love to hear what you did in 2011, how you did it, and what you’re looking forward to in 2012. 7:00 – 8:30 pm at C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor, 5612 California SW).

34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS: 34th District Democrats meet, The Hall at Fauntleroy, 7 pm. Here’s the latest agenda information.

(Photo from longtime WSB contributor Christopher Boffoli‘s exhibition, opening tonight, see below)
Now that the brief flurry of weather excitement is past – by the way, we’re still trying to figure out what’s causing traffic tieups for some who report it’s been a nightmare to get to the bridge, particularly from Avalon and Admiral – today/tonight’s notes from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

SCHOOL TOUR: As previewed yesterday, school tours this morning till 10 at West Seattle High School (our preview also lists tours at other local high school as well as their upcoming open house/information nights).

LIBRARY STORY TIMES: From the Seattle Public Library Calendar of Events: Toddler story time at the West Seattle Library, 10:30 am; baby story time at the Southwest Library, 11:30 am; family story time at the Delridge Library, 7 pm.

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRAS: The new year begins for West Seattle Community Orchestras, with some changes – all detailed here for returning AND new musicians; rehearsals at Chief Sealth International High School (2600 SW Thistle).

ALKI ELEMENTARY PTA: Meeting starts with treats at 6:15 pm.

INTRODUCTION TO BEERMAKING: Class tonight at the West Seattle Tool Library, 7 pm. Sign up – and find out more – here.

ADMIRAL NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION: Regular monthly meeting for ANA, 7 pm, Admiral Congregational Church. See the agenda here.

FAUNTLEROY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION: Regular meeting for FCA. 7 PM at the schoolhouse (9131 California Avenue SW).

LOCOL’S FIRST ANNIVERSARY PARTY: 7 pm tonight, as previewed here, the neighborhood eating-and-drinking spot celebrates the first anniversary of its official opening.

CHRISTOPHER BOFFOLI’S PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION OPENS: We mentioned this in our story featuring longtime WSB contributing photojournalist Christopher Boffoli‘s “2011 in review” slideshow – the photographs that are currently gaining him worldwide acclaim are going on display starting today and continuing through February 23 at Winston Wächter Fine Art (203 Dexter Ave. N. downtown), with a reception 6-8 pm tonight.

After a week of slowly ramping up post-holidays, you may need wings to keep up with this week. (Thanks to Trileigh Tucker for the Townsend’s Warbler photo – she says they’re not often seen around here this time of year, but that one turned up at her hummingbird feeder.) From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

BRIDGE CLOSURE: Another four nights of Fauntleroy Expressway overnight closures are scheduled to begin tonight. We’ve noticed over the course of the past several weeks’ closures that the times and exact locations vary.

MEET YOUR SCHOOL BOARD REP: Second chance to talk with West Seattle’s school-board rep Marty McLaren, 10 am-noon, West Seattle (Admiral) Library, 2306 42nd SW.

CITY COUNCIL STARTS THE NEW YEAR: First meeting since the holidays for the Seattle City Council, including the inaugural ceremony for re-elected members including Tom Rasmussen of West Seattle, 2 pm at City Hall downtown.

COOK SOMETHING UP: West Seattle Cooking Club! 2:30 pm at Beveridge Place Pub, theme “On a Stick.”

PRESCHOOL FAIR: West Seattle Preschool Fair, presented by the West Seattle Preschool Association, 5:30-7:30 pm at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, 3050 California SW (details here). Participating schools include WSB sponsors Community School of West Seattle, West Seattle Montessori School, and Westside School.

NORTH DELRIDGE NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL: January’s North Delridge Neighborhood Council meeting, 6:30 pm, Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. See the agenda on the NDNC website.

PTA MEETING AT ROXHILL: Next Roxhill Elementary PTA meeting, 6:30 pm. Child care is available on-site for those who need it.

OPERA PREVIEW: “Attila” preview focused on Seattle Opera‘s upcoming production, West Seattle (Admiral) Library, 6:30 pm – full details here.

TQI DIET CLASS: The anti-inflammation-diet class returns to The Kenney (WSB sponsor), 7125 Fauntleroy Way SW, Room 2 Downstairs, Seattle. First of five classes, 6:30 to 8 pm.

HOW TO HELP HOMELESS FAMILIES: Family Promise of Seattle supporters gathering to celebrate past accomplishments and focus on the future, 7 pm, Tibbetts United Methodist Church (WSB sponsor).

TAI CHI: 7 pm at High Point Neighborhood Center (6400 Sylvan Way SW), Tao Jin: Foundations of a Tai Chi Lifestyle.
This class introduces 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. Others pay $10 to instructor on a drop-in basis. Contact instructor Caylen Storm via e-mail with 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.

STUDENT SPORTS: Thanks to Mark Terao for sending info about today’s Madison Middle School basketball games – he says both teams are undefeated:

The West Seattle Madison Bulldogs Boys Varsity Basketball team faces Aki Kurose Middle School Monday January 9th at 4:30pm. The game will be played at Madison Middle School, with the Lady Bulldogs playing at 5:45 pm.

Both Boys and Girls Varsity teams have a season record of 3-0. The varsity boys defeated Whitman 55-42, McClure 51-32 and earning their latest wins against the talented Denny Middle School 60-45.

The Madison boys’ varsity team roster: 8th graders Nuradin Abdi, James Bonaci, Jayshaad Carlisle, Zach Gibson, Carter Golgart, George Hendricks, Brandon Jordan, Riley O’Neil, Michael Werlech; 7th graders Keith Edwards, Blue James, Nate Pryor, Jamiek Satterwhite, Jacob Terao, and Marques Titialii.

In high-school basketball today, Seattle Lutheran teams are on the road, visiting Tacoma Baptist.

NEW DODGEBALL LEAGUE: Tonight brings the first games of a new West Seattle adult-dodgeball league, playing Monday nights at 7:30 pm, 8:15 pm and 9 pm at the Chief Sealth International High School gym.

(Friday photo of Alki-area bald eagle, by Gary Jones)
Looks like a decent day for some outdoor work or play. (ADDED: Minutes after we published this, a great sunrise photo came in, taken by Coleman Smith at EC Hughes Playground, AND the forecast added the words “partly sunny”:)

Here’s what’s on the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET RETURNS: After two holiday Sundays off, it’s the return of the West Seattle Farmers’ Market, 10 am – 2 pm, The Junction (44th/Alaska). Market management says the new year brings new vendors: Finnriver Artisan Hard Cider & Spirited Wine, with wine and cider sampling from 10-2 pm. From the vintners …”We will feature our artisan Black Currant, Pear and Dry Hopped sparkling ciders, crafted on the Olympic Peninsula, and our sumptuous fruit brandy wines.” Also – as noted here earlier this week – Honest Biscuits debuts, as does Maninis Gluten Free (selling “sweet and savories,” says WSFM). **UPDATE** As noted in comments, Honest Biscuits is not there today after all; they tweeted this morning that “serious illness” is keeping them away.

GET OUT AND TOSS: West Seattle Ultimate Family Frisbee, 11 am, Walt Hundley Playfield (34th/Myrtle).

FOOD TRUCK: One weekly truck in West Seattle today – Snout and Co. 11 am-3 pm at 35th/Graham.

FREE BICYCLE REPAIR: Bike trouble? Expert volunteers’ work to get more bicycles on the road in White Center continues today with another Dubsea Bikes session, 2-4 pm at Full Tilt Ice Cream in downtown WC. (Map on our event calendar listing from partner site White Center Now.)

WEST SEATTLEITE ON ‘HOARDING’: Karen Pfeiffer Bush from LifeSpace tells WSB she is a guest Professional Organizer on TLC/The Discovery Channel’s show “Hoarding: Buried Alive,” episode 11 of Season 3, which airs at 9 pm Pacific tonight. Friends are gathering at Rocksport in The Junction for a viewing party starting at 7:30 pm. Karen says:

The role of the guest professional organizer is to help one of the people featured in an episode conquer their hoarding problem. Typically, there are 2 feature stories in the hour-long program. I worked hands-on with the woman who is described as having a daughter who is concerned about her mother’s health and safety. The LifeSpace team works with people with all sorts of organizing challenges. I specialize in working with people who struggle with hoarding and chronic disorganization.

NIGHTLIFE: Sidecaps and Psychedelephant play Skylark Café, all ages, 8 pm, $5 cover … The Bridge has karaoke on Sunday with Karaoke Kelli at 9:30 pm.

(Spotted by Christopher Boffoli while watching for the orcas who visited on Friday)

From a variety of school-related events this morning, to the Time Warp after midnight, here are highlights from today’s entries in the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

YES, THAT’S A SAILBOAT RACE: You’ll see them off West Seattle shores as the Three Tree Point Yacht Club presents its annual Duwamish Head Race today.

LINCOLN PARK NEEDS YOU: From Friends of Lincoln Park: For 2012, resolve to improve your fitness and save the planet (one tree at a time)! Join the Friends of Lincoln Park restoring the beautiful forests of our West Seattle gem. 9 am to noon. Meet at the kiosk in the north parking lot (Fauntleroy Way SW and SW Rose St). Dress in layers for warmth and dryness, with sturdy shoes. Bring garden gloves and hand clippers, or we’ll have extras.

PRESCHOOL PREVIEW: Meet reps from schools around the area at the West Seattle Preschool Preview, 9 am -noon at South Seattle Community College‘s Brockey Center, Details here.

NEW PROJECTS FOR THE NEW YEAR? Remember the West Seattle Tool Library is open 9 am-2 pm at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center.

STORY TIME: At Kol HaNeshamah, 6115 SW Hinds, 9:30 am: The PJ Library Storytime at Kol HaNeshamah Congregation. Erik Lawson is guest musician, with PJ Library manager Amy Paquette as the storyteller.

WESTSIDE OPEN HOUSE: All-school open house at Westside School (WSB sponsor), 10 am-noon.

TALK WITH YOUR SCHOOL BOARD REP: Marty McLaren‘s first community-conversation meeting, 10 am-noon at Southwest Library (35th/Henderson).

STILL NEED TO TREE-CYCLE? The West Seattle Rainbow Girls‘ 5th annual Christmas-tree-recycle fundraiser is 10 am-2 pm today at the Alki Masonic Hall (4736 40th SW) and also at the Southgate Masonic Hall (1004 SW 152nd in Burien). Suggested donation $5. No flocked trees.

FOOD TRUCKS: Marination Mobile returns to West Seattle (35th/Graham, 11-2) after holiday break; three trucks are due at Highland Park Improvement Club (see the right sidebar on this page); Skillet‘s chicken/waffles truck expected at Uptown/Junction; and Beloved Mexico‘s first weekend across Fauntleroy at West Seattle Produce‘s new location.

VIETNAMESE CULTURAL CENTER:: It’s the building on SW Orchard north of Home Depot, with the big statue in back, and you’re welcome to visit today since it’s open to the public Saturdays, noon-3 pm.

TRY THE TANGO: Argentine Tango classes In West Seattle at Allstar Fitness, 2629 SW Andover. Saturdays from 1-3 PM, $7 . Series classes are going to be available starting in January, with registration currently open; more info here. Contact Layton: 360.250.2066.

YOU’VE SEEN THEM IN PHOTOS, NOW SEE THEM IN PERSON: Owl Prowl – From the announcement: “Join enthusiastic and knowledgeable naturalist Stewart Wechsler on an owling adventure at Seattle’s Lincoln Park! Will the Barred Owls be hooting it up as courtship season approaches? We think they might be. In addition to looking and listening for owls, we’ll be treated to an evening tour of the park. We’ll see and smell some of the park’s plants, a few of which are already showing signs of spring. We’ll also peek under a few logs to see if any invertebrates or vertebrates are home. Stewart will demonstrate his impressive hoots (even though the owls already know his voice and no longer respond as well as they once did!) The suggested donation to Stewart’s Stewardship cause $1 to $20 – your choice. 4 pm, meet by the kiosk in the middle of the north parking lot (across from SW Rose). Dress for the weather, bring a flashlight, and pack binoculars if you have them. You don’t have to RSVP, but if you have questions, call Stewart at (206) 932-7225 or e-mail co-organizer Lauren – lauren@nwtripfinder.com

BENEFIT FOR HURRICANE SURVIVORS: As previewed here, tonight’s the benefit concert Chief Sealth International High School student Kathryn Purcell has organized for a Nicaraguan town hard-hit by a recent hurricane, Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, 7:30 pm.

NIGHTLIFE: Elizabeth Dawson plays jazz at Salty’s on Alki with pianist Hans Brehmer, from 8 to 10 pm in the Cafe Bar … Bloomer and The Disco Cowboys at Skylark Café and Club, 9 pm, $5 cover. .. Tony B with DJ’ing and karaoke @ 10 pm, Rocksport Bar & Grill.

ROCKY HORROR AT MIDNIGHT: The monthly event, shadow cast and all, at the historic Admiral Theater.

Quick note from Seattle-based Screaming Flea Productions, a Georgetown-based company with more than a few West Seattleites on staff. Your house might be just what they’re looking for. Screaming Flea says it is …

… looking for a home on the market to make over for a national cable home-design show … listings that are challenged, dated, or in need of serious cash. This show involves a complete renovation of a kitchen or a bathroom, and work on 2-3 other rooms as well. Homeowner personality a plus! Filming and makeover will occur beginning of March. Contact Kim Nyhous at knyhous@sfpseattle.com.

At sunrise Tuesday, Don Brubeck took that photo while pausing on his bike at the fishing bridge along the East Duwamish Waterway. (He says the red-hulled, docked ship is the Norway-flagged Nina Victory.) What’s ahead today? Highlights from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

SOUTH SEATTLE COMMUNITY COLLEGE NEW STUDENTS RECEPTION/RESOURCE FAIR: Two sessions, noon and 4:30 pm, in the Brockey Center auditorium – details on the school calendar.

BLUE ANGEL SIGHTING: Blue Angels jet #7 due to arrive for Seafair‘s winter planning meetings, expected on the east side of Boeing Field around 1:15 pm.

SCHOOL BOARD ON REOPENING BOREN: The Seattle School Board will consider the “short-term capacity management plan” (see it here), including the official proposal to reopen Boren Junior High School on Delridge as an “option” elementary school for any and all West Seattle-area students to choose to attend. Meeting is at 6 pm, district HQ in SODO.

SOUTHWEST DISTRICT COUNCIL: The city’s proposed street-tree ordinance – recently reported and discussed here – is part of what’s on the agenda for tonight’s Southwest District Council meeting, 7 pm, board room at South Seattle Community College (6000 16th SW).

GET FIT WEST SEATTLE: Want to go “from couch to half-marathon”? Check out tonight’s Get Fit West Seattle info/intro night at West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor), 7 pm (California/Charlestown).

PRIDE SKATE: Tonight’s the monthly Pride Skate at Southgate Roller Rink in White Center, 9 pm – the theme, ’70s!

PARTIAL BRIDGE CLOSURE: Another Fauntleroy Expressway closure is scheduled tonight, approximately 9 pm to 5 am, west end of West Seattle Bridge. (Check the cams on the WSB West Seattle Traffic page get a look on the westbound status.)

(Chicken photographed at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center by Machel Spence)
Caption, anyone? Machel’s photo seems appropriate for the first full-on business/school day of the still-new year. The list of scheduled events isn’t too long today, but here’s what we have on the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

TODDLER STORY TIME … at the West Seattle (Admiral) branch of Seattle Public Library, 10:30 am.

LOOKING FOR A NEW JOB IN THE NEW YEAR? “Notes From the Job Search” help/networking meetings continue Tuesdays at 11 am at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor; 5612 California SW).

BABY STORY TIME … at the Southwest branch of Seattle Public Library, 11:30 am.

BRIDGE CLOSURE: Fauntleroy Expressway closures scheduled to continue overnight tonight through Thursday night.

NIGHTLIFE: Open-mike night, acoustic/poetry/comedy, 7 pm at Skylark Café and Club … Rock music/pop culture trivia every Tuesday night at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 8 pm .. Starlite songwriter showcase, Shadowland, 9 pm … Karaoke at Talarico’s, 9:30 pm …

Not much on our calendars, as another holiday weekend approaches. A few things:

ANOTHER OVERNIGHT BRIDGE CLOSURE: The Fauntleroy Expressway work continues tonight – here are the details from SDOT.

BARTON STREET P-PATCH WORK PARTY: Through the summer and into the fall, volunteers have kept working to develop West Seattle’s newest P-Patch (34th/Barton), and – “if the weather cooperates” – they’ll be out again at noon today.

‘TINY BUBBLES’ TASTING AND PET-DONATION DRIVE: At Bin 41 in The Junction, 4-6 pm. From the announcement: “Here’s your chance to sample and select the perfect sparkling wine to pop open as the clock strikes midnight for welcoming in 2012! We’ll be pouring everything from Champagne, Cava, Prosecco, Cremant d’Alsace to sparkling rose. Our domestic sparkling wine this year will be from Iron Horse in California.” The Bin also says it’s one last chance to donate to their donation drive for the Old Dog Haven – bring a donation (here’s the wish list) and they’ll waive the fee for tonight’s tasting.

LIVE MUSIC: 2 bands at Skylark Café and Club, 9 pm.

(Photo courtesy Kate Endle – who says this is “Randall the Steller’s Jay”)
It’s the calm before the last winter-holiday weekend – but still a few things to share from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

BEEN TO THE LOG HOUSE MUSEUM LATELY? It’s open today noon-4 pm. (61st/Stevens, in Alki)

E-READER CLINIC: The Southwest Branch of the Seattle Public Library (35th/Henderson, in Westwood) has one more free clinic today for those with new e-readers who are interested in finding great e-books. 1-3 pm.

PUBLIC SWIM AT SOUTHWEST POOL: 2:35 pm-4 pm today (2801 SW Thistle).

BRIDGE/ROAD WORK CONTINUES: Another overnight Fauntleroy Expressway closure tonight … And the road repair work is scheduled to continue in the 6500 block of 48th SW – details here.

LIVE MUSIC: 6-8 pm at C & P Coffee (WSB sponsor; 5612 California SW), Jim Page; 10 pm at Skylark Café and Club, two live bands (3803 Delridge Way SW).

From the WSB West Seattle Events calendar:

BRIDGE/ROAD WORK: Another overnight Fauntleroy Expressway closure … Road repair work scheduled to continue in the 6500 block of 48th SW – details here.

ANOTHER ‘KING TIDE’: Just before 8 am today, the high tide will be 12.7 feet, almost as high as the past two days.

HEARING LOSS SUPPORT GROUP meets at the Senior Center of West Seattle (California/Oregon), 1-2 pm, free. From the announcement: “Explore with others the challenges of being hearing impaired. Give and receive support for solving problems. Education, special presenters and resources are options as we learn what the attendees are interested in. What this group becomes and achieves will depend on those who attend.” Facilitated by David Keitzke, Senior Center member, and D’vorah Kost, Social Worker.

PLANNING A CATERED EVENT? Tour The Hall at Fauntleroy with Tuxedos and Tennis Shoes Catering, 3-7 pm (details here).

RAMP UP TO RUN A HALF-MARATHON IN THE NEW YEAR! Tonight’s another Get Fit West Seattle info/intro night at West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor) – 7 pm (California/Charlestown).

LISTEN UP, SPEAK UP: Poetry Bridge presents its 4th Wednesday Poems & Tales at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 5612 California SW, from 7-9 pm. Featured readers for December are Thaddeus Gunn and Leopoldo Seguel followed by open mike for poets and storytellers. FREE and open to all ages; beverages available at C & P. Visit poetrybridge.net for more details.

Thanks to Don Brubeck for this morning’s featured photo of the “low bridge” in action, shared via the WSB Flickr group pool (and Flickr is where you can see a larger version). A waterway photo seems appropriate given the first preview of the day:

THIS MORNING’S ‘KING TIDE’: Another 12.8-foot high tide today, this one due at 7:16 am. (Here’s our overview from Sunday night, updated with a photo from Monday morning’s “king tide.”)

DAYTIME ROAD WORK: Road repair work is scheduled to continue in the 6500 block of 48th SW – details here.

NIGHTTIME BRIDGE CLOSURE: Another Fauntleroy Expressway closure is scheduled, 9 pm-5 am tonight (that’s the west end of the West Seattle Bridge, which means some onramp/offramp closures, particularly westbound, where you’ll need to exit at Harbor Island or Delridge).

FREE E-READER CLINIC: 1-3 pm today, Southwest Branch of the Seattle Public Library (35th/Henderson), learn more about your new e-reader and how to find a great e-book.

WEST SEATTLE SEE DOGS: Come find out about raising guide puppies, and meet a guide dog (with its human companion)! 3 pm, The Kenney (WSB sponsor), 7125 Fauntleroy Way SW. (More info via this Facebook event page.)

NIGHTLIFE: Skylark Café and Club open-mike night, poetry and comedy encouraged as well as acoustic music, starts 7 pm … rock music/pop culture trivia at Feedback Lounge (WSB sponsor), 8 pmStarlite singer/songwriter showcase at Shadowland, sign-ups at 9 pm …

LOOKING AHEAD TO NEW YEAR’S EVE/DAY: From special dinners on NYE to volksmarching and Polar-Bear-Plunging on The Big Day, we have listings on the WSB Holidays page – and it’s not too late for more (editor@westseattleblog.com).

(Christmas Day view of the downtown skyline from West Seattle, by Emily Austin)
Since Christmas happened on a Sunday this year, today’s the official holiday, which means some closures and changes. Here’s what’s different as a result:

TRANSPORTATION: Metro is on a Sunday schedule today (and a “reduced weekday schedule” the next 4 weekdays); no West Seattle or Vashon Water Taxi service; Sound Transit is on a Sunday schedule (but no Sounder trains).

PARKING: We don’t have city pay stations/meters in West Seattle, but if you’re going downtown or elsewhere with Seattle street parking that has them, it’s a “parking holiday” – no charge today.

POST OFFICE/MAIL DELIVERY: Today is a postal holiday.

BANKS: Closed.

GOVERNMENT OFFICES/FACILITIES: Most are closed, with this exception …

SEATTLE LIBRARIES ARE OPEN: Seattle Public Library branches are scheduled to be open regular Monday hours today.

LIQUOR STORES: Junction store (42nd/Alaska) is open, according to this list.

SOLID-WASTE PICKUP: The City of Seattle is on a regular schedule this week, and for the next two weeks, you can include Christmas trees (rules explained here).

Three days till Christmas, third night of Hanukkah, and a foggy, frosty morning. Looking ahead to the rest of the day/night:

WEST SEATTLE FARMERS’ MARKET, NIGHTTIME EDITION, DIFFERENT LOCATION: 5-8 pm at Junction Plaza Park (42nd/Alaska), you’ll find a special version of the West Seattle Farmers’ Market, wrapping up the WS Junction Association’s Hometown Holidays (co-sponsored by WSB). This is the last Farmers’ Market until Sunday, January 8th, since the regular market will NOT be open on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day (both Sundays this year)

SHOP LATE IN THE JUNCTION: And while you’re in The Junction, check out the shops that’ll be open late tonight for one last pre-Christmas edition of “Shop Late Thursday.” (We’ll have a roundup in a few hours with some of the special deals/events you’ll find at participating stores.)

KIDS’ HANUKKAH PARTY: High Point Community Center, 6920 34th SW, 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm. From the announcement: “Hey Kids! Decorate a delicious doughnut, Bedazzle a beautiful menorah, Light up the night of the homeless by making a sandwich to donate. Meet other Jewish Kids and enjoy a Hanukkah dinner of Latkes and Hanukkah Dinner! Brought to you by the Seattle Kollel’s West Seattle Torah Learning Center and Jewish Y-FI (Young Family Initiative)” Adults $7.00 / Children $5.00. RSVP to Giti Fredman 206-852-6418.

‘HONORING THE DARKNESS, CELEBRATING THE LIGHT’: Solstice/Hanukkah Fire Ritual & Gong Bath at Hummingbird Studio, West Seattle (address provided upon registration), 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM. Bring a candle and join with like-minded souls to mark this terrifyingly wonderful dark night. The ritual portion will be held outdoors rain or shine so come prepared. Following the fire ritual (with a special surprise), we will move indoors for a special gong meditation. Call to see if there’s room. $28 pre-payment required. A portion of the proceeds go to support the Bali Street Dog Fund. Contact Sha’ari at 206.309.4667 or innerlistening.com.

ONSTAGE AT ARTSWEST: Final week – 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.

MORE HOLIDAY EVENTS/INFO, INCLUDING THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS MAP … on the WSB West Seattle Holidays page.

SWIM AT SOUTHWEST POOL: Found this one on the SW Pool Facebook page – an added public swim this afternoon, 2:35-4 pm! The pool is at 2801 SW Thistle.

SCHEDULED ROAD WORK/BRIDGE CLOSURE: The 48th SW project is scheduled to continue today, and there is one more closure of the westbound Spokane Street Viaduct (the West Seattle Bridge between I-5 and 99 – no access from 5 or Beacon Hill, but there IS access from 99) overnight tonight.

In holiday mode yet? Much of what’s on the list today is from the WSB West Seattle Holidays page – well, and then there are the road and bridge alerts (our photo above shows the still-under-construction 1st Avenue South ramp to the WS Bridge):

ROAD WORK ON 35TH SW: Repaving work is scheduled to wrap up today on 35th SW between Myrtle and Othello – details here.

ROAD WORK ON 48TH SW: Road repair work is scheduled to start in the 6500 block of 48th SW – details here.

WESTBOUND SPOKANE STREET VIADUCT CLOSED OVERNIGHT: 9 pm-5 am, which means no entrance to the West Seattle Bridge from I-5 or Beacon Hill, and during that same time frame, the 1st S./Spokane surface intersection will be closed. This is part of the Spokane Street Viaduct Widening Project.

FAUNTLEROY EXPRESSWAY: A third night of 9 pm-5 am closure of the west end of the bridge is also on the schedule (though we are checking with SDOT to be sure these two bridge closures really are happening the same night).

THREE CHANCES TO SEE SANTA: He’s scheduled to be at JF Henry Kitchenware, Tableware, and Gifts (4445 California SW; WSB sponsor) in The Junction, 11 am-2 pm; West Seattle Thriftway, 3-7 pm; Westwood Village till 8 pm.

HIGH TIDES: They’re really high – the so-called “king tides” – for much of the rest of the month. While the peak here will be the two days after Christmas, today’s is 12.2 feet at 12:46 pm. Here’s the chart for the month.

GRAND OPENING: At 35th/Henderson, new salon CoCo & Co. will be having a Grand Opening and Holiday Party. They invite you to visit between 4 PM to 8 PM to “meet the staff, eat some snacks, enjoy the music and get the grand tour. We will be providing cupcakes from Stuffed Cakes, appetizers from Von’s Roast House, coffee from Bird on a Wire Espresso and music by Sphinx Akashaa Duncan.”

SOLSTICE SUNSET VIEWING: Winter solstice arrives at 9:30 pm our time – and tonight brings a sunset-viewing event at Solstice Park (7400 Fauntleroy Way SW) with Alice Enevoldsen of Alice’s Astro Info, be there by 4:05 pm (if not sooner).

HANUKKAH CONTINUES: Second night of Hanukkah – local events tomorrow night and Friday night, as listed on the WSB West Seattle Holidays page.

NO DELRIDGE NEIGHBORHOODS DISTRICT COUNCIL MEETING TONIGHT, BUT … DNDC leadership announced a potluck/community mixer at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, 7-9 pm. Bring something to share.

INFO NIGHT FOR ‘GET FIT WEST SEATTLE‘: From West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor):

Ever wanted to run or walk a 5K? A 10K? A half marathon? Ever wondered how you would get in shape for one of these and didn’t know where to start? Maybe you have never run before or just want to get in better shape? Well, then this is the program for you! A fully supported, free training program that takes you from never running or from low mileage running to running/walking a half marathon in 23 weeks. This program will allow you to miss some weeks and still be on track to run/walk the Rock and Roll Seattle Half Marathon in June of 2012. The training starts very slow and builds gradually, ensuring you don’t get discouraged with your progress and trying to keep injuries down to a minimum. There will be races added along the way to keep it interesting, including a 5K (or 2, or 3), a 10K, a 15K, and ending with the Rock and Roll Half Marathon, June 23rd. (All race entry fees will be paid for by the participant). It will also introduce you to others from the area, as there will be weekly group runs. There will also be information nights were you will learn about nutrition, injury prevention, stretching, cross training ideas, proper footwear and apparel, and others we will add along the way. So come out, enjoy yourself, get healthy and meet your neighbors! 48 Half Marathon finishers in 2011, let’s double that in 2012!

7 pm tonight at WS Runner (California/Charlestown) – same time 12/28 and 1/4, if you can’t make it tonight.

ONSTAGE AT ARTSWEST: Final week – 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.

Among the road work continuing today/tonight, the repaving of a block of 35th SW, where we photographed that crew by former Fire Station 37 on Monday. That’s part of what’s on the WSB West Seattle Events calendar and Holidays page for today/tonight:

FIRST NIGHT OF HANUKKAH: Hanukkah, the eight-night Festival of Lights, begins tonight. No West Seattle events on the calendar tonight, but there’s one on Thursday and one Friday – see the Holidays page.

FREE CHRISTMAS MOVIE AT THE ADMIRAL: Tonight at the Admiral Theater, “A Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie,” 7 pm, presented by the businesses of the Admiral District. Bring donations for the Seattle Humane Society/Animal Shelter, updated details here. Santa’ll be there too.

SPEAKING OF SANTA: You’ll find him at West Seattle Thriftway 3-7 pm today (California/Fauntleroy) and at Westwood Village (in the breezeway between Bed Bath Beyond and Jamba Juice) 10 am-8 pm.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS RUN: As previewed here last night, the folks at West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor) are inviting you to join a 3.5-mile “slow” run to see some of the area’s lights tonight, starting at the store (California/Charlestown – meet at 6 pm) and ending at the Helmstetler Family Christmas Spectacular a few blocks east.

CHRISTMAS TREES: Updates to the list on the Holidays page – Stop n Shop at the Senior Center of West Seattle (California/Oregon) – which just sent the above photo – now has trees for $10. Also, as noted yesterday, West Seattle Nursery has cut prices by 33 percent and West Seattle Produce by 25 percent.

35TH SW REPAVING: It’s scheduled to continue during the day today between Othello and Myrtle. Full details here.

FAUNTLEROY EXPRESSWAY CLOSURE: The west end of the West Seattle Bridge is scheduled for more earthquake-safety work tonight, which means it’s closed 9 pm-5 am. Eastbound, you won’t be able to get on at 35th; westbound, you will have to exit at Delridge. Project details and detour map are here.

SOUTHWEST PRECINCT ‘TWEETALONG’: Seattle Police have done this in other precincts, and today is the SW Precinct’s turn – they’ll be chronicling an officer’s entire shift on Twitter. Details here; to see the tweets, start checking the SPD Twitter feed after 11 am. (You don’t have to be a Twitter user to follow that link.)

(Photo taken last Tuesday, shared via the WSB Flickr group pool by Nicole)
The week ahead includes (in order) Hanukkah, Winter Solstice, and Christmas. But first, here’s what’s on the docket for today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar and West Seattle Holidays page:

FAUNTLEROY EXPRESSWAY CLOSURE TONIGHT: Rescheduled from last week, tonight’s the first 9 pm-5 am closure for the work to lift the bridge deck (slightly) to add quake-resistant features. This means the West Seattle Bridge will be closed west of Delridge – see the city website for detour information if you’ll be driving that section during those hours.

MORE REPAVING: Three scheduled days of repaving start 9 am-5 pm today on 35th SW between Myrtle and Othello – details here.

NO SCHOOL: First day of winter break for Seattle Public Schools (and most others).

TRIANGLE REZONING VOTE: Seattle City Council final vote on Triangle rezoning, 2 pm meeting at City Hall downtown (preceded by open public comment), more details here.

STIR IT UP: West Seattle Cooking Club, 2:30 pm, Beveridge Place Pub. This week’s theme is “Soul Food.” More info at westseattlecookingclub.org

SEE SANTA CLAUS: At West Seattle Thriftway 3:30-7:30 pm, as well as Westwood Village, 10 am-8 pm

‘EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY …’: Final week – 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 tonight through Friday, 5 pm on Christmas Eve; ticket info here.

(Mule-drawn carriage in The Junction, photographed last Sunday)
Rain, shine, or fog, it’s one week till Christmas and the final West Seattle Junction Hometown Holidays Sunday, among other highlights from the calendars (year-round events list here, winter-holidays list here):

RECYCLE THOSE OLD CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: Got lights that you replaced (perhaps with energy-thrifty LEDs) or couldn’t use this year outdoors or on the tree? Sustainable West Seattle is accepting old Christmas lights for recycling at its West Seattle Farmers’ Market booth today, 10 am-2 pm, while demonstrating the power-use difference between LEDs and old-fashioned lights.

FRESH FOOD: And of course the West Seattle Farmers’ Market offers its usual fresh vegetables, fruit, meat, cheese, flowers, nuts, and a lot more, 10 am – 2 pm, The Junction (44th/Alaska).

MULE-DRAWN CARRIAGE RIDES: While you’re in The Junction for the Farmers’ Market, it’s one more chance for Mule Carriage Rides 11 am-3 pm, free. Take a traditional carriage ride down California SW pulled by Belgian Draft Mules, departing on California in front of KeyBank at Hometown Holidays Headquarters.

SANTA PHOTOS: Where’s Santa today? In the Junction, you’ll find Hometown Holidays Santa at City Mouse Studio and Store (4218 SW Alaska) for a third and final Sunday – but today, it’s Do-It-Yourself photos, with no official photographer, so bring your own camera. $15 requested donation goes to local charities. As for Santa’s other stops in West Seattle today, the list and links are at the top of the West Seattle Holiday Events/Info page.

WRAP STARS: “Wrap It Up” gift wrapping with Furry Faces Foundation and AARF. It’s up to you how much you would like to donate for the gift wrapping, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to helping animals. Today is the second of four “Wrap It Up” sessions – 1 – 7 pm at the Beveridge Place Pub, 6413 California Ave SW (during the Specialty Bottle Sale and for a couple hours after). … (added) Just heard this morning about Roxhill Elementary wrapping fundraiser at Barnes & Noble in Westwood Village till 9 pm.

SEASON FINALE AT KITTY HARBOR: After this afternoon’s round of cat adoptions, Kitty Harbor closes for the year, and is hoping everybody will find their forever home. 2-6 pm, on Harbor Avenue just north of the West Seattle Bridge.

HANUKKAH CONCERT: Performed by the Seattle Jewish Chorale @ 3:00 pm. Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 7141 California Ave SW, co-sponsored by WSUU and Kol HaNeshamah. “Light the Candles: A Hanukkah Concert for Everyone” is an interactive, family-friendly celebration featuring both familiar and unusual holiday songs in Hebrew, English, Yiddish and Ladino. For Jews and non-Jews alike, learn what Hanukkah is all about! Reception to follow, with Hanukkah goodies for sale.Tickets are $10/adults, $5/children (under 12), $8/students & seniors/un(der)employed pay as able.

FINAL PERFORMANCE FOR ‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE, A LIVE RADIO SHOW’: 3 pm performance of Twelfth Night Productions‘ “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Show,” concluding its run at Kenyon Hall, 7904 35th SW.

AUTHORS AT SKYLARK: West Seattle author Dave O’Leary will be reading from his debut novel, “Horse Bite,” at Skylark Café and Club, along with three other local authors/poets will also be reading from their works – Cherry Tigris, Pam Summa, and Roberto Carlos Ascalon. 3-5 pm, 3803 Delridge Way SW

‘EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY’: Also a matinee today for ArtsWest in The Junction presents “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!).” 3 pm; ticket info here.

GOT YOUR TREE YET? IF NOT, HURRY! At least one tree lot is already closed for the season (Son-In-Law at California/Charlestown) and today is the last day listed for the Holy Rosary Tree Lot (41st/Dakota), which donates part of its proceeds to local charities; it cut prices in half earlier this week.

DR titled that photo “USS Seattle” – it does resemble the skyline as a ship, sailing on a sea of fog. But hey, it’s not raining or snowing, a good thing for a big holiday shopping (etc.) day. Here are some of the highlights (reminder that these listings all come from the WSB West Seattle Events calendar and, this time of year, the Holiday Events/Info list, and are usually on those lists days if not weeks ahead of time, for those who like to plan way ahead):

SANTA APPEARANCES: Lots of them today and tonight – busy guy! Check out the Santa section on the Holidays page – we’ve moved it up to the top of the page so you can find it fast.

HAPPY 5TH ANNIVERSARY, BAKERY NOUVEAU: Just posted on their official “blog” – today marks their 5th anniversary, and they’re offering some discounts. Read about it here.

GIVEAWAY AT WEST SEATTLE PRODUCE: Seattle Bagel Bakery is giving away free bagels till noon. Details in the WSB Forums.

ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP: Support group for Alzheimer’s patient caregivers, and others dealing with people facing memory loss, meets monthly in West Seattle – 10 am; details here.

‘FABULOUS FAMILY FUN’ WITH THE NOISE GUY: Fabulous Family Fun Series – Entertaining shows for all ages on the 3rd Saturday of each month at 10:30 am at High Point Community Center (6920 34th Ave SW)! Each event is $3 per person; $15 max for families. Today – The Noise Guy (for ages 1 and older). What bellows like a reindeer, jingles like a sleigh bell and flushes like a toilet? It’s the Noise Guy!

CAROLERS IN THE JUNCTION: We3Carolers is bringing holiday music in support of the Food Bank to the corner of Alaska and California SW on the next 2 Saturdays. Members of the South Seattle Community College Choir will also sing with us. This year (as in years past) 100% of the caroling proceeds will go to both the West Seattle and White Center Food Banks. Caroling will be on the Southwest corner, noon-3 pm today. All are welcome to join in the singing!

HOLIDAY SHOPPING DISCOUNTS: In The Junction, Admiral, and elsewhere! Check out this special WSB page with holiday-season coupons.

HOLIDAY PARTY FOR KIDS: At Delridge Community Center, noon-2 pm (from fall brochure).

WINE, CHEESE, CHAMPAGNE TASTINGS: Wine and cheese tasting at Admiral Safeway, noon-4 pm. La Crema Sonoma Pinot Noir, La Crema Sonoma Chardonnay, Kendall Jackson VR Summation Red, paired with the following cheeses: Black Diamond – 2 year aged; Castello Blue Cheese; Laura Chanel Goat Cheese; as well as a 3 Pigs pate. … West Seattle Cellars‘ special 1-5 pm tasting is the annual holiday grower Champagne tasting … Bin 41 features “holiday Italian arrivals with Vito,” 1-3 pm.

TRY THE TANGO: Argentine Tango Classes in West Seattle at Allstar Fitness, 2629 SW Andover. Saturdays from 1-3 PM, $7. Series classes available starting in January, with registration currently open; more info here. Contact Layton Miller: info@gttango.com

NEED GIFT WRAP HELP? “Wrap It Up” gift wrapping with Furry Faces Foundation and AARF. First of four events to benefit animal-advocacy work: 2-7 pm at Rocksport (4209 SW Alaska) in The Junction.

‘SANTA’S FIRST MAGICAL RIDE’: Paul and Libby Carr have written “Santa’s First Magical Ride – A Christmas Tale,” and will be making an appearance at Alki Tully’s store (dressed as Mr. and Mrs. Claus), 3-6pm.

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION IN SOUTH PARK: Posada Navideña Christmas celebration on 14th South in South Park, 4 pm-10 pm, live music and lots more, see the details here.

CRAFTS/ARTS SALE @ SKYLARK: Skylark Café and Club hosting an art/craft fair/bazaar, 4-7 pm, with eleven artists/crafters participating – including photographer Machel Spence (who shared the photo above) – more info here (3803 Delridge Way SW).

MORE ARTS AND CRAFTS, PLUS LIVE MUSIC: Arts/crafts and music at Café Rozella, 6-9 pm (details here)

(Photo courtesy Twelfth Night Productions)
‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE, A LIVE RADIO SHOW’: 7:30 pm performance of 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 at historic Kenyon Hall, 7904 35th SW. Tickets available online at Brown Paper Tickets, and at Kenyon Hall, $15/adults, $12 students & seniors.

(Rehearsal photo courtesy Musica Sacra Chamber Chorale)
MUSICA SACRA AT HOLY ROSARY: Musica Sacra Chamber Chorale presents its inaugural Christmas Concert at Holy Rosary (42nd/Genesee), 7:30 pm. Bring donations for West Seattle Food Bank and West Seattle Helpline. Full details in our previously published preview.

‘EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY’: ArtsWest presents “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!).” 7:30 pm; ticket info here.