Entertainment

Diversions | Events Calendar | Restaurant Reviews

Diversions  (top)

The Musical Comedy

Murders of 1940

West Seattle West Seattle

High School Drama Club

WSHS Theatre

November 20, 21, 22 at 7:30 p.m. The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 is an ingenious and wildly comic romp (although not actually a musical!) which enjoyed a long, critically hailed run both on and off-Broadway. Poking antic fun at the more ridiculous aspects of "show biz" and the corny thrillers of Hollywood's heyday, the play is a non-stop barrage of laughter as those assembled (or at least who aren't killed off) untangle the mystery of the Stage Door Slasher. The Village Voice calls the show "a silly and relentlessly convoluted murder-mystery plot, with twist piled on twist till you have to give way and start laughing at the silliness...it's hugely enjoyable." Rated a very mild PG. Tickets $5 with reservations. Call 252.8834. Tickets $10 at the door

American Icon

ArtsWest Playhouse and Gallery

4711 California Ave. S.W.

www.artswest.org

938-0339

Through Nov. 22, noon - 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is free.

Wine and Cheese Artist Reception: Thursday, Nov. 13, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

American Icon was curated specifically to complement the concurrent stage production at ArtsWest, Black Gold (Oct. 22 - Nov. 15). Suzanne Gardner's enigmatic collage series pieces together a symbolic journey of Native American culture in the white man's world. Kenneth Susynski's gestural and frenzied strokes of oil on large canvases blur the boundaries of the experience of art in his vivid search for truth. Brian White's found materials sculptural works are crafted volumes of a psychological thriller.

Plaid Tidings

ArtsWest Playhouse and Gallery

4711 California Ave. S.W.

938-0339

www.artswest.org

Nov. 28 - Dec. 23. $32 (Under 25? Only $10.) In Plaid Tidings, The Plaids (Frankie, Sparky, Jinx, and Smudge) from Forever Plaid are transported back from the ethereal cosmos to croon their tight harmonic renditions of musical hits from the '50s and '60s.

Events Calendar  (top)

Upcoming Events and Announcements

Hi Yu Ornament Sale

The Holiday Ornament sale is in full swing. These are beautiful ornaments made by Glass Eye Studios in Fremont. $25 is a great price for these hand crafted ornaments. Help support West Seattle Hi Yu. E-mail winstonfamily@yahoo.com or gracie_baby@msn.com.

Food drive

Shorewood Foursquare Church

10300 28th Ave. S.W.

Through Dec. 21. Food drive to benefit White Center Food Bank. There will be a food bin available just outside the entrance to the building. Shorewood Foursquare Church will also accept monetary donations made out to "White Center Food Bank". For more information, including suggested donations, call 932-0186.

At the Farmers Market

www.seattlefarmersmarkets.org

This week will feature pasture raised pork, wild salmon, beets, beans, kale, greens, garlic, fennel, corn, chard, celery and celery root, cauliflower, carrots, cabbage, broccoli, rutabagas, radishes, raddiccio, pumpkins, potatoes, hot peppers, parsnips, onions, leeks, lettuce, kohlrabi, shallots, spinach, winter squash, tomatoes, apples, pears, hazelnuts, marjoram, thyme, sage, cilantro, parsley and mint.

Boys and girls

basketball

Alki Community Center

5817 S.W. Stevens St.

Now forming teams for 8 to 9-year-old basketball league. Games will be played Friday nights at Hiawatha Community Center and Madison School beginning in January. There are openings for coaches, and players. Call Alki Community Center at 684-7430 for further information.

Delridge Neighborhoods

Council meeting

Southwest Police Precinct

2300 S.W. Webster St.

733-9800

Monthly meeting Wednesday, Nov. 19 at 7 p.m.

Library programs

White Center Library

11220 16th Ave. S.W.

243-0233

Programs for adults

Nov. 19 at 6:30 p.m. Using television to teach. Learn to help children develop healthy viewing habits and get the most from their screen time.

Programs for children and families

Tuesday, Nov. 25, 6 p.m. Vietnamese story time

Saturday, Nov. 29, 3 p.m. The Rain-Deer. Join us for a musical puppet show about a wild reindeer living deep in a tropical rain forest who just might be the replacement deer Santa is looking for.

Programs for teens

Wednesday, Nov. 19, 26, 2:30 p.m. Game on! Play your favorite video games on GameCube, Xbox 360 and the Wii.

'Bring order into your life'

Senior Center of West Seattle

4217 S.W. Oregon St.

932-4044

New series starting Nov. 19, 10 to 11 a.m. and Nov. 1 and Dec. 6, 9 to 11 a.m., "Bring Order into your life" is a monthly series presented by West Seattle author Judy Piggot based on her book "Personal Safety Nets: Getting Ready for Life's Inevitable Changes and Challenges." Book, workbook and classes for $40. Call for more details.

Diabetes support group

Senior Center of West Seattle

4217 S.W. Oregon St.

932-4044

Nov. 19 and Dec. 17, 2 p.m.

Blood pressure

screenings

Providence Elizabeth House

3201 S.W. Graham St.

Wednesdays through Nov. 19, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

West Seattle Food Bank

3419 S.W. Morgan St.

Wednesdays through Nov. 19, 3 - 5 p.m.

The only way to find out if you have high blood pressure is to have your blood pressure checked. Nursing students from Seattle University invite you to join us for free blood pressure screenings.

Radio rookies

Delridge Community Center

4501 Delridge Way S.W.

684-7423

Through Nov. 19, Wednesdays, 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. Aspiring reporters learn how to conduct an interview, develop a story, craft a script and digitally edit their audio. They will also go on field trips to several professional broadcast facilities, including KUOW on Sept. 24.

Lauren Petrie

dance time

Senior Center of West Seattle

4217 S.W. Oregon St.

932-4044

Nov. 19, Dec. 3 and 17, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Lauren Petrie, popular keyboard player and vocalist from the closed Corner Inn, plays for dancing and listening. Suggested donation $5.

Chamber after hours

Bridge Park

3204 S.W. Morgan St.

938-6394

Nov. 20, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Join us for an evening of music, dancing and refreshments. Music from the 40s, 50s, and 60s sung by Lauren Petrie. Learn to dance like a star with Loretta.

Parks meetings

Seattle Parks and Recreation has scheduled these public meetings through the end of November. The public is welcome at any or all; for people who do not attend, comments are welcome at dewey.potter@seattle.gov or Dewey Potter, Seattle Parks and Recreation, 100 Dexter Ave. N, Seattle, WA 98103, and will reach the responsible Parks staff person and become part of the project record.

Nov. 20, 6 to 8 p.m.

Southwest Community Center Fitness Room Neighborhood Matching Fund Project

Southwest Community Center

2801 S.W. Thistle St.

For information on either meeting go to www.seattle.gov/news/, specific department "Parks and Recreation"

Democratic women

West Seattle Golf Course

4470 35th Ave. S.W.

Nov. 20. Registration starts at 11:15 a.m., meeting begins at 11:30 p.m. The speaker will be Sharon Mast, speaking on her experiences as a SUPER delegate. Luncheon is $10. RSVP at wsdwomen@yahoo.com.

Hearing support group

Senior Center of West Seattle

4217 S.W. Oregon St.

932-4044

Nov. 20 and Dec. 18, 1 p.m. Open to all, $1 donation.

Continuing Education

South Seattle Community College

6000 16th Ave. S.W.

764-5339

www.LearnAtSouth.org

For questions or to register for any of these classes, visit LearnAtSouth.org, e-mail southced@sccd.ctc.edu or call 764-5339.

Fundraising: basics and support for your non-profit

Nov. 20, 6 - 8:30 p.m. You will learn the nuts and bolts of implementing fundraising activities that community-based and non-profit organizations with little or no staff can use to generate more revenue. Cost $39

Perfect holiday entertaining

Nov. 20, 6 - 9 p.m. Just add your potatoes and vegetables, and it's the perfect meal. Come hungry. We will taste our creations, including a freshly-roasted turkey. Cost $45, Materials Fee $12

Lunch with our neighbors

Seaview United Methodist Church

4620 S.W. Graham St.

932-7609

Nov. 21, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The menu includes a choice of hearty, homemade soups, make-it-yourself sandwiches, dessert and beverage. Children are welcome. Free.

West Seattle Garden Club

Alki Congregational Church

6115 S.W. Hinds St

Nov. 21, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Silent Auction will also be held. At noon, a brown bag lunch, dessert and beverage served by the Club. The afternoon program will feature David (DC) Clausen, speaking on "Winterizing Your Garden, Containers and Tools." Guests are welcome. $5 donation. More information call 932-2540.

Parents' Night out

Alki Community Center

5817 S.W. Stevens St.

Ages 4 - 8: Nov. 21, 6 - 9 p.m. or Dec. 12, 6 - 9 p.m.

Ages 7 - 11: Nov. 7, 6 - 9 p.m.

Bring your child to the center for an evening of fun while you enjoy an evening to yourselves. Please register by the Wednesday before the date. A minimum of four children are needed for each date, $15 per child.

Dental access program

Senior Center of West Seattle

4217 S.W. Oregon St.

932-4044

Nov. 21 and Dec. 19, 9 a.m. to noon. Program for seniors 60 and over. Free education presentations, evaluation of teeth and gums and dental hygiene , personal oral hygiene and cancer screenings. Complete a packet to receive affordable routine therapeutic dental cleanings by licensed dental hygienists and fluoride applications. Call for an appointment.

YMCA events

West Seattle location:

4515 36th Ave. S.W.

935-6000

www.westseattleymca.org

Fauntleroy location:

9140 California Ave. S.W.

937-1000

Nov. 21, 6 - 8:30 p.m. Family Social: The Dollmaker at Fauntleroy YMCA and Church Fellowship Hall. $5 per person over age 2 or $20 per family. Register by Nov. 14.

Nov. 27, 8:30 - 10 a.m. at the West Seattle location, 7:30 - 9 a.m. at Fauntleroy. Gobble Stomp: Our annual Thanksgiving Day workout featuring several of our instructors for an extended workout. Free to members, friends and family - food bank donations accepted for the West Seattle Food Bank.

Gala dinner and auction

South Seattle Community College

Jerry Brockey Center

6000 16th Ave. S.W.

Nov. 22, 5 - 9 p.m. Benefit for the Log House Museum. A festive event with live jazz all evening, wine, beer, and appetizers, silent auction, jewelry appraisal, genealogy consultations, ghost stories and much more. Dinner choices are confetti ravioli or strip steak and salmon. RSVP to the Log House Museum at 938-5293 or emailloghousemuseum@comcast.net.

Discovery Shop

4535 California Ave. S.W.

Through Nov. 22: 50 percent off clothes and yellow tags. Also, on Nov. 22 refreshments will be served 1 - 3 p.m. to celebrate our 18 year anniversary. The 18th purchaser that day will receive a $25 gift certificate. All sales final. The shop will be open every day except Sunday from 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. All proceeds go to the effort to cure cancer. The Discovery Shop needs new volunteers. Please call 937-7169.

Giving Thanks dinner celebration

Delridge Community Center

4501 Delridge Way S.W.

Nov. 22, 6:30 - 9 p.m. Contact 684-4115 for more information.

Nature Consortium

needs volunteers

Work parties on Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. The Forest Restoration Project is committed to long-term stewardship and restoration of the West Duwamish Greenbelt. Our restoration goal is the reintroduction of conifer species to the greenbelt via invasive plant removal, native plantings, site maintenance and environmental education. For more information or to RSVP, please contact volunteer@naturec.org or 930-0853.

Nov. 22, 14th and Holly work party

Nov. 29, 14th and Holly work party

Dec. 6, Cooper site work party

Westside Unitarian

Universalist Congregation

4736 40th Ave. S.W.

909-2856

Nov. 23 Thanksgiving Service. Today we plan an intergenerational service to celebrate with gratitude life and its abundance, immediately followed by our annual Thanksgiving Feast. Bring a potluck dish to share. Religious education and childcare will be available.

Daystar Toastmasters

Daystar Retirement Village

2615 S.W. Barton St.

http://daystarclub.freetoasthost.us.

Join us Nov. 24, noon - 1 p.m. to learn how to improve your ability to think-on-your-feet and become more comfortable speaking to groups. Meetings are the second and fourth Mondays each month, arrive 5 to 10 minutes early. For more information e-mail contactus@daystarclub.freetoasthost.us or call Bill at 932-6706.

Basketball teams now forming

Delridge Community Center

4501 Delridge Way S.W.

684-7423

Through Nov. 24. Citywide basketball teams are now forming for boys and girls ages 10-17. Cub basketball teams are also forming for boys and girls ages 8-9. Volunteer coaches are needed. Please call 684-7423 to register or for more information.

Thanksgiving Luncheon

CafŽ Alki

South Seattle Community College

6000 16th Ave. S.W.

Nov. 25 and 26, 11 a.m. or 12 p.m. The students at South Seattle Community College are starting a new tradition by offering an early Thanksgiving dinner at just $11.95 per person. Pre-paid reservations required, please call 764-7952. Reservations accepted now through Nov. 14.

Delridge Center to close

Delridge Neighborhood Service Center

5405 Delridge Way S.W.

In observance of Thanksgiving the Delridge Neighborhood Service Centers will be closed the following days:

Nov. 27 - Thanksgiving Day

Nov. 28 - The day after Thanksgiving

Nov. 29 - The Saturday after Thanksgiving

Signs will be posted to inform customers that we will open for business on Monday, Dec. 1.

Free Thanksgiving meal

The Hall at Fauntleroy

9131 California Ave. S.W.

Nov. 27, noon - 3 p.m. All are welcome for a traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings. We are located in the old Fauntleroy School building across the street from the Fauntleroy YMCA, on Metro Bus route #54. Call 932-4357 or 932-1059 ex 314 for more information.

Thanksgiving community dinner

South Park Neighborhood Center

8201 10th Ave. S.

Nov. 28 at 3 p.m. For more details and to volunteer or arrange for donations contact Bea Johnson at 941-7024.

ArtsWest Artists

During November our talented local ArtsWest artists are exhibiting at the following locations:

Bank America: 4323 S.W. Admiral Way, Dori Westphal, watercolors

Illusions Hair Salon: 5619 California Ave. S.W., Paul and Judy Miller, watercolors

Leisure Books: 4537 California Ave. S.W., Patri O'Connor, oil on canvas

Merrill Gardens of West Seattle: 4611 35th Ave. S.W., Hans Westphal, photography

Northwest Kidney Center: 4045 Delridge Way S.W., Hans Westphal, photography

Seasons Hair Salon: 4787 42nd Ave. S.W., Ada McAllister, pet portraits in watercolor

West Seattle Chamber of Commerce: 3614-A California Ave. S.W., Doug Everson, acrylics

West Seattle Optix: 4555 California Ave. S.W., Chuck McInturf, Still life oils on canvas

Wild Rose Antiques: 4529 California Ave. S.W., Marilyn Van Cleave Ullin, acrylic flowers and landscapes

For further information contact venue chairperson Marilyn Ullin at 937-3525.

Transportation careers

South Seattle Community College

Georgetown Campus

6737 Corson Ave. S.

764-5350

Dec. 2, 6 - 7 p.m. Learn about South Seattle Community College's new Transportation, Logistics, and Supply Chain Management Program at a free information session. For more information, call 764-5350 or visit www.southseattle.edu.

Aqua Vista Garden Club

The Kenney

7124 47th Ave. S.W.

Dec. 4, starting at10:30 a.m. "Flowers for the Holidays" by Master Gardener Dorothy Barish. Flowers, Flowers, Flowers. Business meeting 10:30 a.m., bag lunch at noon, program at 1 p.m.

Kenney redevelopment

discussion

Fauntleroy Church Fellowship Hall

9131 California Way S.W.

Dec. 4 evening (exact time tba). Meeting to address questions on the part of neighbors about both the details of the proposed redevelopment, and how the project will proceed through the city's processes.

White Center Library

11220 16th Ave. S.W.

243-0233

Programs for children and families

Dec. 4 and 11, 11:30 a.m. Family story times

Dec. 6, 1:30 p.m. Spanish story time

Dec. 6, 11 a.m. Holiday bazaar and magic show

Dec. 9 and 23, 6 p.m. Vietnamese story times

Holiday bazaar

Arbor Heights Elementary School

3701 S.W. 104th St.

252-9250

Dec. 4, 4 - 8 p.m. There will be shopping, crafts, activities for kids, face painting, cakewalk, and more. Also we are looking for vendors, please call for more information.

Building a

better home workshop

Ventana Construction offices

5458 California Ave. S.W.

Dec. 4 at 6:30 p.m.; Jan. 8 at 5 p.m. If you are a homeowner considering remodeling your home or building a new custom home, this workshop is an invaluable first step in the process. Speakers include Kim Goforth of Goforth-Gill Architects and Clarence Higuera of Ventana Construction. Free, RSVP at 932-3009 to reserve your space.

Wine auction

ArtsWest Playhouse and Gallery

4711 California Ave. S.W.

www.artswest.org

Dec. 5 at 6:30 p.m. This is an exciting, delicious, musical evening of wine, hors d'oeuvres, bidding, and an exclusive presentation of the holiday show, Plaid Tidings: The Holiday Edition of 'Forever Plaid.' Admission is free and is by invitation only. Includes tickets to Plaid Tidings. Call 938- 0963 ext. 113 for details/invitation.

Hometown holidays events

Alaska Junction

Dec. 6 - Tree lighting

Dec. 7, 14 and 21 - Carriage rides, Santa photos and more

Dec. 11 - ArtWalk and shopping

Library guild

holiday bazaar

White Center Library

11220 16th Ave. S.W.

243-0233

Dec. 6, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. White Center Library Guild will hold its annual Holiday bazaar and baked goods sale. At 2:30 there will also be a free magician show with Jeff Evans. Recommended for ages 5+. Donations of baked goods and white elephant items for the event will be accepted.

South Park Arts

South Park Neighborhood Center

8201 10th Ave. S.

www.southparkarts.org

Dec. 6, 4 - 10 p.m. Fourth annual art under $100 sale. Free entry, art raffle every 30 minutes. For more information contact

Wendy Woldenberg at 763-6201or e-mail southparkarts@hotmail.com.

Vashon holiday

art studio tour

Dec. 6 - 7, and 13 - 14, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. It's a free, self guided tour and a wonderful way to catch a glimpse of the lives and skills of the artists while taking in Vashon's rural beauty. Color maps of the Tour available online at www.vashonislandartstudiotour.com as well as at most businesses on Vashon.

Protect yourself

from landslides

South Seattle Community College

6000 16th Ave. S.W.

Dec. 6, 10 a.m. - noon. Learn how to manage landslide-prone properties. Presentations will include a discussion on the causes of landslides and proper drainage and vegetation for sloping sites. These will be followed by a question and answer session and one-on-one discussions.

Pancake breakfast

Alki Masonic Building

4736 40th Ave. S.W.

Dec. 6, 7 - 11 a.m. Proceeds will go to community and child services of the Kiwanis Club of West Seattle. Adult donation: $5, $6 at the door, children 12 and under $3. For advance tickets call 938-8032.

Holiday bazaar

vendors needed

Highland Park Elementary School

1012 S.W. Trenton St.

Dec. 6. Five foot tables are for rent for $10. Set up at 9 a.m., tear down no earlier than 3 p.m Please donate at least one item for the raffle table. Please call Christie Sjostrom at 252-8250 to rent a table or for more information.

Alki Masonic

Christmas Party

Alki Masonic Hall

4736 40th Ave. S.W.

Dec. 7, 2 - 5 p.m. Santa arrives at 4 p.m. Snacks, games, fun, and gifts, from Santa, for the children. All are welcome.

Money-free

shopping spree

Camp Long

5200 35th Ave. S.W.

Dec. 8, 6 - 9 p.m. Sustainable West Seattle will be moderating a "Handmade/Skills" swap, along with a potluck dinner, festive music, and socializing. Just make something with your own hands that you value at $40. Or you can donate a skill or service that you're particularly versed in via a gift certificate, an hour's service value is $20.

Holiday dinner

The Brockey Center

South Seattle Community Collage

6000 16th. Ave. S.W.

Dec. 8 at 6 p.m., Dec. 9 at noon. The culinary arts department will be serving Chef's choice for a starter, roasted beef rib- eye, with seasonal vegetables and starch, our famous potato rolls and Chef's choice for dessert. $17.38 per person, tax included. Call for required reservations 764-7952.

Music and dancing

Bridge Park

3204 S.W. Morgan St.

938-6394

Dec. 11, 5:30 - 8 p.m. Enjoy music from the 40's, 50's and 60's sung by Lauren Petrie. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres and refreshments. $5 suggested donation. Proceeds benefit the Senior Center of West Seattle.

Vendors wanted

Delridge Community Center

4501 Delridge Way S.W.

684-7423

Dec. 13, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. 6-foot table space is available for $15, $10 for each additional table. Please call Delridge CC at 684-7423 to register or for more information.

The more the merrier

Delridge Library

5423 Delridge Way S.W.

Saturday, Dec. 13. 2 - 3:30 p.m. Learn how to make story times more interactive. Make singing, dancing and instruments a regular part of your stories. Free, open to the public. Program is for adults, childcare will not be provided. Registration required, call 733-9125.

Children's

puppet theater series

Alki Bathhouse

2701 Alki Ave. S.W.

The area's best puppet entertainers are coming to Alki Bathhouse on Saturdays. All performances begin at 1 p.m., and you can buy tickets in advance at Alki Community Center. $5

Dec. 13: Clay Martin's Puppet Theater presents "Jingle Bells."

Strawberry waffles

and sausage dinner

Senior Center of West Seattle

4217 S.W. Oregon St.

932-4044

Dec. 15 at 5:30 p.m. Only $6, with music by the "Band Jam". Reservations.

Teen time

Through Dec. 17 (Mon-Thurs), 2:30 - 4 p.m. Part homework/educational time and part free time. Need help with homework? Need somewhere to get your homework done? Come on in.

At Delridge Community Center, 4501 Delridge Way S.W., 684-7423

At South Park Community Center, 8319 8th Ave. S., 615-0981

At Southwest Community Center, 2801 S.W. Thistle St., 684-4115

Winter Solstice

labyrinth walk

Cottage Grove Park

5206 26th Ave. S.W.

Dec. 21, 6 - 8 p.m. Gather with the North Delridge community for a candlelit celebration illuminating the darkest time of the year. Enjoy an outdoor labyrinth walk, meditations, prayers, music and hot cider.

Friday Night

Family Roller Skating

Alki Community Center

5817 S.W. Stevens St.

Fridays through Dec. 29, 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. It's a great time to practice your skills and tricks while experiencing a roller-rink atmosphere. If you don't have your own skates, you can borrow a pair of ours. No program Nov. 28. $3 per person, all ages welcome.

Middle school

information night

Gatewood Elementary School

4320 S.W. Myrtle St.

252-9400

Jan. 8, 6:30 - 8 p.m. Join us as principals and/or representatives from public and private middle schools come together in one venue to discuss their schools. Each school representative will give a brief overview of their school's programs, philosophies and activities. You will then have the opportunity to ask questions and speak further with the various representatives.

Listening Mothers

Providence Mount St. Vincent

4831 35th Ave. S.W.

www.listeningmothers.org

Group to start Jan. 16, 10:30 a.m. - noon.

Volunteers needed

High Point Community Center

6920 34th Ave. S.W.

684-74221

Advisory Council members meet once a month 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Through March 15. Youth Basketball coaches needed to coach youth from ages 8-17.

Big Brothers

Big Sisters

Becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister is a fun and easy way to make a big difference in your community. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound has several program options that you can choose to fit your schedule and interests. All you have to do is hang out, have fun, and be a friend to a local child. For more information, text the word "BIG" to 839863 or go to www.bbbsps.org.

White Center swap meet

9646 17th Ave. S.W.

Every Saturday and Sunday, noon - 6 p.m. We are looking vendors, including people who want to have a garage sale, sell crafts, art or other misc. things. We are also looking for antiques/collectables dealers and buyers. Booths are $30 a day.

Baby and Me

Tuesdays 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Free class for parents and babies (up to 18 months). Fun for baby, friends and parenting information for parents. White Center Public Health. Call Apple Parenting 754-5801 for information.

Just Walkers

Saturdays, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. new class through South Seattle Community College Preschools for parents and toddlers now about 14-18 months old. Fun for little ones and a parent educator to talk with. Call 854-5279 for information.

Swing Dance club

Alki Masonic Temple

4736 40th Ave. S.W.

The Seattle Swing Dance Club has lessons at 2:45 p.m. and dancing begins at 5 p.m. the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month. For more information call Merrill at 523-3205.

West Side MOPS

West Side Presbyterian Church

3601 California Ave. S.W.

First and third Fridays through May, 9 - 11:15 a.m. Attention Mothers-of-Preschoolers: Tired? Stressed out? In need of encouragement and an uninterrupted conversation that doesn't involve Elmo? West Side MOPS invites you to join us. Childcare is provided for registered members. For more information or to register, please visit westsidemops.com

Volunteers needed

Providence Mount St. Vincent

4831 35th Ave. S.W.

Providence Mount St. Vincent has a thriving volunteer program and seeks additional volunteer help in three key areas: office work, childcare, and visitors to the adult family home. For information call Storey at 937-3701 ext. 28170.

Fitness/Sports

Southwest Community Center

2801 S.W. Thistle St.

Openings Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 - 10 a.m. in the strength and conditioning classes and the pickleball program, and Tuesdays and Thursdays 12 - 2 p.m. for adults 50 years and up. Please contact Mary at 935-2162 for more information.

Youth basketball league

Southwest Boys and Girls Club

9800 8th Ave. S.W., Suite 105

Now accepting registrations. K-2nd grade is co-ed, 3rd-4th and 5th-6th grade are separate divisions. Practice start the week of Dec. 1 at local elementary schools and games begin the week of Jan. 5. Also looking for volunteer coaches, experience not necessary.

Business Network International

Pegasus Pizza

2758 Alki Ave. S.W.

Westside Professionals Chapter of Business Network Int'l., (BNI), meets every Wednesday from 8 - 9:30 a.m. at Pegasus. Bring 50 business cards for networking. Business owners and sales people are invited to attend. For details call Don Linley at 938-0300 or go to www.bninw.com.

Catechesis of the

Good Shepherd

St. John the Episcopal Baptist Church

3050 California Ave. S.W.

Ongoing. The curriculum responds to the silent cry of the child "Help me come close to God all by myself" using the teaching methods of Dr. Maria Montessori. For more information call 932-1973 or 937-4545.

New bilingual preschool

now enrolling

Southwest Family Center

4555 Delridge Way S.W.

937-7680

Ongoing. Lunch included. Spanish-English preschool for 4 year olds living in Seattle. We will help prepare your child for Kindergarten with high quality, culturally enriched early childhood education focusing on early literacy skills, field trips, outdoor adventures and science projects. Monthly tuition is $525 (free for families who meet income guidelines). To enroll call 937-7680.

'The Fauntleroy Story'

Fauntleroy Church

9140 California Ave. S.W.

932-5600

Be among the first to see "The Fauntleroy Story: 100 Years of Community," a 35-min. professional documentary about this West Seattle neighborhood, from its founding at the end of the streetcar line to present-day challenges. Free. Take-home copies of the DVD available by donation.

Seeking volunteers

High Point Community Center

6920 34th Ave. S.W.

684-7422

Volunteer opportunities available at High Point Community Center for the following: special events, advisory council members and basketball coaches. If you are interested please call 684-7422 or drop by.

Ballroom dancing

with Loretta

West Seattle Senior Center

4217 S.W. Oregon St.

420-3255

All ages, singles and couples welcome.

Tuesday, 6 - 7 p.m. Introductory Latin: Rumba, Cha Cha, Salsa

Tuesday, 7 - 8 p.m. Beginner Latin: Rumba, Cha Cha, Salsa

Thursday, 6 - 7 p.m. Beginner Ballroom: Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango

$10 donation.

Fall art classes

Alki Community Center

5817 S.W. Stevens

Now registering for fall art classes at Alki Bathhouse. New programs include an introduction to watercolor painting class and a card making class. Call 684-7430 for information.

New bilingual preschool

4555 Delridge Way S.W.

Now enrolling in a great new bilingual (Spanish-English) preschool for 4 year olds living in Seattle. Monthly tuition is $525 (free for families who meet income guidelines). Starts Sept. 22, children attend 9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Monday-Thursday; lunch included. To enroll, call the Family Center at 937-7680. For more information call Jody at 790-7500 or Tamara at 920-2507.

Back to school

donation drive

Host a Back-to-School donation drive and help a foster child start the school year off right. We'll provide everything you need to collect donations and raise money. Get started by going to www.treehouseforkids.org or call 267-5109 to sign up. Send our community's foster kids back to school with confidence - in clothes that fit and feel great.

Alki Kid's Place

Alki UCC

6115 S.W. Hinds St.

Register now for a new after school program for children ages 4 - 14. The program includes arts and crafts, games, group activities along with quiet time for homework, reading, and tutoring. The hours are 2:30 - 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. $70 per week/$15 per day. Call 938-0145 for more information or to register.

100th birthday

preparations

6115 S.W. Hinds St.

Alki Congregational United Church of Christ is making plans for its 100th birthday in 2009. We are looking for help tracking down the families of the following Charter members of the congregation: George R. and Carrie E. Baker, Mr. and Mrs. Percy G. Copp, Mrs. E.J. Fuller, Mrs. Grace Livingston, Mrs. E.W. McGinnis, Mr. and Mrs. G.P. Peavey, Mrs. Ferdinand Schmitz, and Mr. and Mrs. B.H. Svendsen. If you can provide name and addresses of the descendents of these Charter members, please call the Alki Church office at 935-2661.

Flag football signups

Alki Community Center

5817 S.W. Stevens St.

684-7430

Ages 6-14 years old. Boys and girls will learn offensive and defensive skills that will enhance their natural abilities. Practice times and game times vary, so please call 684-7430 for specific dates, times, and for registration information.

Hospice volunteer training

Highline Hospice

12844 Military Rd. S.

439-9095

Highline Hospice is recruiting caring and compassionate people interested in supporting terminally ill patients and their families in West Seattle and White Center. Comprehensive training provided. Contact Michele Fawcett-Long, Volunteer Coordinator, at 439-9095.

'Biggest Loser'

High Point Community Center

6920 34th Ave. S.W.

Join us each week on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. to learn about a different topic of nutrition such as portion control, reading food labels, healthy food choices, etc. All participants will receive personal coaching, a free wellness evaluation, group support and more. To reserve your spot contact Stevie Johnson at 669-5674 or ricecake@comcast.net. $39 to join, $10 of your registration fee will be donated to help end childhood obesity in America.

Fruit tree harvest

Community Harvest of Southwest Seattle increases availability of urban fruits and vegetables for. During our fruit tree harvest, we harvest residential fruit trees and donate the fruit to the local food banks, senior center and schools. If you are interested in being a volunteer harvester or you have a tree that you would like harvested, please go to www.gleanit.org and fill out the online form.

Court appointed

special advocates needed

www.metrokc.gov/kcsc/depcasa.htm

Train to become a volunteer advocate for abused and neglected children. Must be 21, have excellent references and attend 28 hours of training. For more information call 296-1120 or email casa.group@kingcounty.gov

Help Seniors

Help seniors in your community remain independent by becoming a volunteer driver for Senior Services. Drivers use their own vehicles and choose the days and times they'd like to volunteer. Senior Services reimburses for mileage and parking costs and offers supplemental liability insurance. Interested? Call 748-7588, 1-800-282-5815, or apply online at www.seniorservices.org.

Volunteer work party -

Camp Long

first saturdays

Camp Long

5200 35th Ave. S.W.

684-7434

Second Saturdays ongoing, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Ages 8 and older. Help with forest restoration, trail maintenance, invasive plant removal, planting and weeding. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please RSVP by calling 423-0762.

KCFFI community dinners

Youngstown Cultural Arts Center

4408 Delridge Way S.W.

935-2999

Wednesdays ongoing. Cooking 5 - 6 p.m., conversation and eating 6 - 8 p.m. DNDA participates in the King County Food and Fitness Initiative (KCFFI), which seeks to develop and promote sustainable, healthy lifestyles. The Youth Leadership Development Subcommittee will convene on Wednesdays to prepare delicious organic meals and hear presentations by regional organizations. For more information e-mail Randy at randye@dnda.org.

New passport hours

Delridge NSC

5405 Delridge Way S.W.

Open Mon. - Fri. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

West Seattle NSC

4205 S.W. Alaska St.

Open Mon. - Fri. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

'Icons of West Seattle'

3003 61st Ave. S.W.

938-5293

www.loghousemuseum.org

Learn of the natatorium diving sign, about the doomed old West Seattle Bridge, the original Alki beach Statue of Liberty and the 18-foot totem pole carved by Seattleites in the 1960's. Open 12 - 4 p.m. Thursday - Sunday, and by appointment. Admission by donation.

Overeaters Anonymous

Seaview Methodist Church

4620 S.W. Graham St.

260-5045

www.seattleoa.org

Meetings: Sundays and Tuesdays 7 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m. For information, call Tami at 937-6321.

Hallava Falafel

Youngstown Cultural Arts Center

4408 Delridge Way S.W.

Mondays, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Hall‡va Falafel revolutionizes street food. Featuring falafel fried in an olive oil blend and paired with hand made salads and sauces including Russian beet relish, curried zucchini, and amazing tzatziki. Chicken shawarma and borscht are now included in the menu.

Ride to the nines

Aaron's Bicycle Repair

6521 California Ave. S.W.

Every Monday, meet at 7 p.m., leave at 7:30. Dress up and ride, or wear what ever you feel like, we don't care. Let's show everyone that you do not need a car to go out on the town.

West Seattle

food bank for seniors

4217 S.W. Oregon St.

Every Tuesday morning from 9 - 10 a.m., the West Seattle Senior Center opens a food bank for local area senior citizens.

YWCA GirlsFirst

girlsfirst@ywcaworks.org

www.ywcaworks.org/girlsfirst

461-4443

The program is open to all girls entering their freshman year of high school who have the desire and potential for leadership and excellence. The program is specifically designed for girls of color who face economic and social barriers to success. YWCA GirlsFirst provides academic skill building, mentoring, and goal setting.

Bingo at Alki

Alki Congregational

United Church of Christ

6115 S.W. Hinds

Monday night games at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 5:30. We are handicap accessible. Come and bring your friends for an evening of fun with cash prizes and refreshments. For additional information call 937-0495.

Fine dining

South Seattle Community College

6000 16th Ave. S.W.

764-5817

Monday-Friday, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., Come join us for lunch, enjoy great food at a modest price while helping culinary students learn. EntrŽe range in price from $6.95 - $9.95. Reservations are not required.

West Seattle

exercise club

Lincoln Park

8011 Fauntleroy Way S.W.

Saturday mornings, 9 a.m. Are you looking for an exercise buddy? This club is open to everybody and the goal is to have a place where anybody can come to exercise at their own ability rate. Tell a friend and let's hope the buzz will get out.

Northwest Center

donation drop off

Drop off your re-usable clothing and household goods at your local neighborhood donation station. Open Friday and weekends. Visit us at S.W. 44th and S.W. Edmunds across from Uptown Espresso. Look for the big blue truck in the Diamond parking lot. Hours of operation: Friday-Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Toy Room volunteer needed

WestSide Baby

10032 15th Ave. S.W.

767-1662

www.westsidebaby.org

info@westsidebaby.org

If you like playing with toys, making sure local children receive intact, age appropriate and safe toys and organizing, we need you. We are looking for a regular Monday morning volunteer. WestSide Baby, in partnership with our community, provides essential items to local children in need by collecting and distributing diapers, clothing, toys and equipment.

Volunteer needed

Southwest Seattle Historical Society

3003 61st Ave. S.W.

Are you a retired Accountant or CPA, looking for some meaningful work? The Southwest Seattle Historical Society and the Log House Museum are in need of a volunteer like you to be our Board Treasurer. Please contact Marcy Johnsen at 909-9366.

Volunteer opportunities

Senior Center of West Seattle

4217 S.W. Oregon St.

Volunteer efforts will help assist many programs and services at our Center. Here are a few Volunteer Opportunities.

¥ Front Office Receptionist: Answer Phones; Program Registration; Additional Administrative tasks.

¥ The CafŽ - (our soup and sandwich bar): Brew Coffee, Bake Cookies, Assemble Sandwiches, serve soup.

¥ Stop 'N Shop: Cashiers, Pricers, and organizers

¥ Bingo Workers: Callers, Cashiers

¥ Evening Functions: Set-up, Decorate, Sell Raffle Tickets, Serve, and Clean Up

If you are interested in volunteering a few hours a day, a week or a month, call our Volunteer Coordinator, Margie at 206-932-4044 ext. 8 or e-mail her at Margiew@seniorservices.org she will match you up with a job.

High Point

P-Patch garden

Are you interested in community gardens at High Point? Come help design and build a new P-Patch garden on MacArthur Lane. We need community members to approve the design of the garden, help write a grant for supplies, and help with the construction and art features of the garden. More info: call Samantha at 696-3148.

Crisis clinic

461-3210

msmith@crisisclinic.org

King County's Crisis Clinic is recruiting volunteers to answer calls on the 24-hour crisis line. Volunteers provide support for callers in emotional crisis, including persons contemplating suicide. Volunteer candidates are professionally trained, receiving over 56 hours of specialized training. Call for information.

West Seattle

food bank

3419 S.W. Morgan St.

The West Seattle Food Bank has an immediate need for volunteers to help in their mission to eliminate hunger in our community.

Home Delivery Volunteers - These much-needed volunteers will pick up bags of groceries that have already been prepared by other volunteers and, using your own car, deliver to clients who cannot come to the Food Bank for their food. Volunteers are needed Friday mornings for just one to two hours a week

Food Pick-up Assistants - Go with our van driver to pick up food donations from area grocery stores. We need volunteers for Monday, Tuesday and Friday mornings. Total commitment is two to three hours a week. These volunteers must be able to repeatedly lift up to 50 pounds.

Farmer's Market Pick-Up - Volunteers can help neighbors who are in need enjoy the bounty of fresh, healthy produce by being part of the team that picks up donations from the West Seattle Farmer's Market and unloads them at the Food Bank. For more information call 932-9023, or stop by the West Seattle Food Bank.

Grocery

rescue program

White Center Food Bank

10829 8th Ave. S.W.

762-2848

We are looking for volunteers to support our food pick up at local grocery stores by driving our van on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. We are also in search of volunteers that would be willing to accompany drivers on their routes. Please contact Cynthia Cantril.

Volunteers needed

at The Kenney

7125 Fauntleroy Way S.W.

937-2800

Give of your time and talents in various areas; Crafts, reading, games, computers, writing, office assistance and volunteer in our new gift shop; The Kenney Cupboard. Contact Davi Sobotta for more information at 937-2800, extension 202.

Meals on Wheels

needs drivers

The West Seattle Meals on Wheels program is seeking volunteer drivers on Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 to deliver meals. Full training and mileage reimbursement available. Please call Paul Lacine at 727-6241 if interested.

White Center Theatre

volunteers needed

Volunteers with professional and technical backgrounds and expertise are needed in all areas of stagecraft and organization including: program, audience, board and website development, office administration, fundraising, grant writing, graphic design, space planning, public relations, marketing and community outreach, data management, resource procurement, construction, ticket sales/box office and more. All backgrounds and experience levels are welcome. Call 931-9521 for information.

Learn to dance

West Seattle Senior Center

4217 S.W. Oregon St.

932-4044

Tuesdays, 6 - 7 p.m. Intermediate Latin

7 - 8 p.m. Beginning Latin

Thursdays, 6 - 7 p.m. Beginning Ballroom

7 - 8 p.m. Intermediate Ballroom

6 weeks, 1 hour classes. Donations of $60, members $50

Make It workshop

4316 S.W. Othello St.

makeitworkshop.com

Make It Workshop is an exciting new destination in West Seattle for kids, teens and adults to learn or use the lost art of sewing to create their own unique clothing, accessories or home dŽcor. We offer group and private sewing and pattern workshops, sewing labs, sewing and craft camps, specialty workshops, and 'open sewing' time if you have ideas and projects and need a place to make it. Tools, resources, and advice are provided in a professional and supportive, fun, (attitude free), and creative workspace. Questions: email Joey at makeitworkshop@gmail.com or call 437-4559. Check out makeitworkshop.com for current workshops.

Free classes

South Park Community Center

8319 8th Ave. S.

684-7451

Our fitness classes include all sorts of movements and active games, including laughter therapy. Mondays Fitness, Tuesdays Computers and Tai Chi, Wednesdays Fitness, Fridays art and cooking classes. Spanish spoken.

Free computer classes

Salvation Army White Center

9050 16th Ave. S.W.

767-3150 ext. 101

technology.program.googlepages.com

lora.vickrey.usw.salvationarmy.org

The Salvation Army Technology Center offers free computer-based classes for adults, seniors and youths who want to learn basic application skills. To sign up for a class call the Salvations Army White Center office or visit it as the address above. The office is open Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Step aerobics class

Providence Mount St. Vincent

4831 35th Ave. S.W.

Second Floor Rehab Gym

Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5 to 6 p.m. Beginners welcome. Ten classes for $30. (Thursday nights are free for Mount employees and volunteers.)

Doll study club

Local collectors of all types of dolls meets once a month on the first Saturday of the month at 2 p.m. We are still accepting new members, contact 932-4803 or e-mail mclaughlin6838@aol.com.

Slavic cookbook

The American Slavic Women's Club has published a comprehensive 224-page cookbook, entitled Slavic Home Cooking. The cookbooks are $20 apiece and make great gifts. To purchase a cookbook or learn more about our Club, call Eleanor Kremenich at 937-4206.

Relay for Life

Volunteers needed. Join us for our monthly meeting - it's the second Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Fauntleroy Children's Center. For more information, please contact Karee Boone at 674-4105 or Melissa Bazala at 281-3738.

Threads of love

St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church

3050 California Ave. S.W.

Threads of Love is an outreach ministry, which makes items for children's hospital, the Pediatric Interim Care Center in Kent and Swedish Hospital. We make blankets, garments and burial gowns for preemies and other hospitalized infants. For more information contact Kate McCormick, 932-2973 or rasaadeh@quidnunc.net or Vicky Hood 963-3544 or VAMHood@hotmail.com.

Spanish conversation group

Cafe Rozella

9534 Delridge Way S.W.

Second and fourth Tuesday each month. All levels welcome. Have fun while practicing your Spanish, meeting new people. For more info, call Margaret at 352-1000.

West Seattle Fraternal

Order of Eagles

4426 California Ave. S.W.

938-4426

Dinner is served each Friday and Saturday evening, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Breakfast is served on Sunday mornings, 9:30 to 11 a.m. Costs are nominal as the Auxiliary and Aerie carry out their charitable and humanitarian objectives.

Endolyne Children's Choir

Rehearsals held at the Fauntleroy Church and are directed by Maria Johnson. Choristers are taught the basic fundamentals of music theory, vocal training, and performance skills. The Endolyne Children's Choir is non-profit and non-sectarian and performs a wide variety of music. Register now for the fall session. Weekly rehearsals are held on Thursdays at the Fauntleroy Church in West Seattle.

Business network

West Seattle Chapter

Rocksport

4209 S.W. Alaska St.

Business Network International West Seattle meets every Wednesday 8 to 9:30 a.m. Bring 50 business cards for networking. For details, call Don Linley at 938-0300, or visit Business Network's regional Web site at www.bninw.com. The Thursday group meets at 7:45 a.m. at Palin Thai Restaurant.

West Seattle Toastmasters

The Kenney

7125 Fauntleroy Way S.W.

www.westseattletm832.org

Please join us as we practice the art of public speaking. Visitors are always welcome. We meet on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

West Seattle Rotary

Salty's on Alki

1936 Harbor Ave. S.W.

We meet Tuesdays at noon. Interested new members and guests are always welcome. Please contact the club secretary Sattler91@comcast.net for more information.

Upcoming events

Seattle Public Library - High Point Branch

3411 S.W. Raymond St.

684-7454

Every Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.: High Point Branch offers a beginning-level ESL class for non-native immigrant and refugee adult learners. All events are free and open to the public. Free parking is available in the branch parking lot.

Woman's Bible study

5610 41st Ave. S.W.

On Monday nights at 7 p.m., A Woman's Heart God's Dwelling Place, a study by Beth Moore. Childcare provided. For more info call 935.4487__

Men's Bible study

Senior Center of West Seattle

4217 S.W. Oregon St.

Meets Monday nights at 7 p.m. The Book of Romans. Childcare provided. For more info call 935-4487.

Senior Center of

West Seattle

4217 S.W. Oregon St.

932-4044

www.sc-ws.org

Thursdays, 12:30 p.m., International dancing classes with no partners needed. $5 or $3 for members.

Tuesdays, 5 to 5:30 p.m. Cardio Salsa for half an hour, led by Loretta. Cost $7 or $5 member. Call for info or to register.

Mondays, 9 to 11 a.m. Free open computer lab with computer helpers.

Thursdays 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Line dancing classes with Alice Crawford for $3 or $2 members.

Monday, Wednesday, Fridays at 8 and 9 a.m., Enhance Fitness Exercise classes of aerobics, balance, stretching, and using wrist and ankle wrights are offered to those with a filled out form from their doctor.

Mondays at 10 a.m. American Sign Language practice.

Fridays, 2 p.m., Free Friday afternoon at the movies. Call 932-4044 for titles of movies to be shown.

Monday at 10 a.m. and Thursday, 12:30 p.m. ongoing, Pinochle, no partner needed, cost $1 member / $2 non-member.

Tuesday and Thursday at 10:30 a.m. ongoing Tai Chi; cost $10 walk in or monthly fee.

Tuesday appointments start at 11 a.m. chair massage for $7 non-member/$5 member.

Mondays, 1 to 3 p.m. The Ukes play ukulele music to singalong songs joined by various instruments. Ukulele players, singers and musicians are invited to this open music session. Dancers are invited too.

Mondays starting at 9 a.m. Foot Care for $22. Appointments needed.

Tuesdays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Piano music is played by Guy Edwards with Jean Roberts leading a singalong. On Tuesdays (fourth) at noon birthdays are celebrated and a Band Jam is held.

Tuesdays at 11:45 a.m. - Blood Pressure Readings by Catherine Orsi, ND, LMP

Tuesdays 9 to 10 a.m. Food Outlet for residents in zip areas of 98116, 98126 and 98136

Tuesdays at 10 a.m. Hardanger (Scandinavian embroidery) and Canasta players meet weekly. Walk-ins welcome

Tuesdays (second and fourth) at 7 p.m. Quilting group meets and has 3 day quilting retreats four times a year. They are working on a quilt for the Center to be raffled.

Wednesdays R.N. is available for private consultation and Enhance Wellness program. Call for appointment.

Wednesday mornings Meals on Wheels are delivered to homebound seniors. Call to order or volunteer.

Fridays, ongoing, 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Bingo played by 18 years and older for $$'s; only $6 plus additional games.

Rebate tax service and free 20-minute legal consultations will be offered at the Center. Call for dates or to schedule an appointment.

Eight-hour workshops over two days for Defensive Diving with Trained volunteer Harriet Wodzin from AARP. Cost: $10, payable to AARP. Register for days and times.

Call for days and times Wii games are available to play. Center has Sports games i.e. bowling, baseball, boxing, tennis and golf.

Call if interested in a low vision, diabetes or hearing support group

Call Virginia at 935--8116 for bus trips to various Casinos. Costs $5 to $10. Other day and extended trips offered too.

New programs

Alki Congregational UCC

6115 S.W. Hinds St.

938-0145

Alki Tae Kwon Do. Wednesdays and Fridays 5 - 6 p.m. All ages. Self-defense and classical tae kwon do training. Build self-confidence, improve self-control, develop honor, respect and focus through exercise and martial arts training. No contracts or exam fees. Monthly tuition is $35. Call for more information or to register.

YMCA

West Seattle location:

4515 36th Ave. S.W.

935-6000

www.westseattleymca.org

Fauntleroy location:

9140 California Ave. S.W.

937-1000

www.fauntleroyymca.org

The First and second Sundays of each month, Blow up obstacle course birthday parties. Kids play for 45 minutes on the obstacle course and then have cake and open gifts in the party room for 45 minutes. Call 935-6000 for available dates and times.

West Seattle Location: Tuesdays, 3 p.m. Youth and Government West Seattle High School, Room 131. Open to community. Learn about governmental procedures, write bills, and develop stronger public speaking skills and much more.

Fauntleroy Location: Tuesdays at 6 to 7:30 p.m. Come learn how to develop and maintain healthy lifestyle changes in a group setting. $90 for members/ $150 program participants.

Wednesdays 3 p.m. Youth Leaders Club - West Seattle High School, room 212. Open to community. Plan service projects and get service learning hours.

Ongoing: Weight Room 101 class, at both Fauntleroy and West Seattle locations. An introduction to the weight room by a YMCA certified personal trainer. Free to YMCA members; call each location for details.

The deadline for calendar submissions is Friday at noon for the following Wednesday's publication. E-mail items to jackieh@robinsonnews.com.

Restaurant Reviews  (top)

A Walking Tour of White Center's Best Restaurants

By Amanda Halm

Strolling through White Center, I can feel that something big is taking place. Vibrantly colored murals cover long-faded graffiti. The streets buzz with talk of lowered crime rates and possible annexation into "the city."

With all the revitalization and rejuvenation, I hope that the neighborhood maintains its cultural uniqueness. White Center is an amazing underground find. Where else can you sample Vietnamese dishes, Salvadorian delights, authentic Mexican cuisine, traditional pub fare, and coffee house treats in a four-block radius?

The 88 Restaurant (9418 Delridge Way SW ) serves authentic pho and Vietnamese sandwiches in a serene setting outfitted with warm décor and a trickling fountain. I've never been to Vietnam, but the 88 Restaurant?s chicken noodle pho is the best I ever tasted. Tender chicken strips and soft rice noodles swim in a steamy, slightly citrus-flavored broth. Its diverse menu gives patrons unusual choices, from mango salad to Wor Wonton, which features prawns, squid, chicken, and wonton in chicken broth.

Low-cost, traditional American pub fare (that tastes great) is also rare in Seattle. The Triangle Pub (9454 Delridge Way SW ) is the place to go for late-night cravings and unbelievable beer-battered onion rings. Don?t leave without sampling one of their ½ pound burgers or Mac's Pacific Cheesesteak. The Philly favorite tantalizes taste buds with thinly sliced steak, melted pepper jack cheese, served on a roll with sweet sauteed peppers and onions. To satisfy nocturnal snackers, kitchen stays open until 1 a.m. daily.

Adventurous foodies should stop into the Salvadorian Bakery (1719 SW Roxbury St.). This mom-and-pop operation is known for papusas, tamales, plantains, and other Central American favorites. Made from stretchy cheese and an edible flower, the loroco papusas turned me into a lifetime papusa fan. For those that don't know, papusas are round cornmeal cakes stuffed with various fillings and served with curtido, a spicy cabbage relish.

Just a couple blocks down, El Paisano (9615 15th Ave. SW) serves traditional Mexican dishes. Hearing that roasted chicken is their specialty, I ordered the pollo tortas and it was amazing. The chicken tasted tender and moist, blending nicely with soft bread, avocado, tomato, and cheese. If every dish is as flavorful and colorful as this one, I'll be a regular customer.

Café Rozella (9434 Delridge Way SW ) keeps the community full, but not just with delectable treats. This coffee house showcases local artists, writers, and musicians. A full wall of breathtaking black and white photographs and a flickering fireplace offer a relaxing atmosphere to indulge in one of their sweet macaroons or buttery croissants. Since variety is the spice of life and of the neighborhood, this unique coffee house also serves delicious tamales and tapas.

Where to Find a Good Quick Lunch in West Seattle

By Amanda Halm

My love affair with West Seattle lunch began when I worked in the SODO district and struggled to find a decent place to eat. One sunny afternoon, I ventured over the bridge and found that I could grab lunch and make it back to the office before the end of my strictly enforced break.

I didn't live in the neighborhood back then. I was a visitor, lost on winding roads, trying to find anything healthy, cheap, and not served out of a drive-through window. These daily excursions resulted in a long list of lunch places -- some new, some old, and some surprising.

Like an old friend, Husky Deli (4721 California Avenue SW ) never disappoints. Every West Seattlelite knows it as the place for homemade ice cream. But it offers so much more. When you have a bad day or the weather is drizzly -- I urge you to try their ultimate grilled cheese. It is a grown up's grilled cheese made with a fresh tomato slices, thick bread, and two kinds of melted cheese garnished with basil. The tomato tortellini soup makes a flavorful, creamy complement to this delectable sandwich.

If you're sick of sandwiches, the newly opened RiverHouse Creperie (3400 Harbor Ave SW) offers a refreshing alternative to the standard mid-day meal – crepes. If you think these delicate French pancakes should be consumed only at breakfast, you’re wrong! The River House has sweet crepes and savory crepes, as well as a variety of soups, salads, and sandwiches.

The lemon and sugar crepe was a heavenly blend of sour and sweet wrapped up in a light, golden brown pancake. I also sampled the vegetarian crepe and found that the zesty roasted red pepper sauce balanced out the Chevere goat cheese and fresh spinach perfectly. RiverHouse uses organic, locally grown ingredients and offers several flavors of gelato. Sitting at a wrought iron table among buttery yellow walls and cheerful decor, I felt like I had escaped into Europe.

If you have time to linger on your lunch break, there is always Luna Park Cafe (2918 SW Avalon). I enjoy the retro decor and diner fare, but the service is on the slow side. However, it makes up for any shortcomings with warm and cold sandwiches, giant-size salads, and of course, hand-dipped milkshakes. Jackie’s Favorite -- a hot turkey sandwich served alongside fries and au jus kept me satisfied all day.

When I sat down for lunch at the West Seattle Thriftway (4201 SW Morgan St) I was surprised – in a good way. As a shopper, I visited the Thriftway several times and never noticed the well-lit eatery. The deli has a wide variety of unique sandwiches and so I’m told, customers love them.

After biting into the vegetable panini, I could see why. It is packed with flavorful red and green peppers, red onions, and mozzarella on panini bread so thick it barely fit into my mouth. The Thriftway also has savory soups, an espresso happy hour on weekday afternoons (3:00 – 5:00), and a fountain drink station. Who knew?

Giannoni's Pizzeria-An East Coast slice in West Seattle

By Amanda Halm

As a native Chicagoan, I have struggled to find suitable Seattle pizza for years. I looked in every nook and cranny of the city. I have sampled so called Chicago pizza, Neapolitan pizza and pizza pot pies. Upon hearing I am from Chicago, people quickly bark their personal favorite pizza joints to me. Nothing has passed my personal pizza taste test.

I certainly was skeptical that six-month-old Giannoni's Pizzeria (2600 SW Barton St. C-3), in Westwood Village could live up to the standards of a pizza snob like me. I was wrong.

Sandwiched between Sally's Beauty Supply and Taco del Mar, from the outside, Giannoni's Pizzeria was hard to locate. Its barely visible black-and-white banner makes the restaurant quite difficult to spot.

The drab exterior is more than compensated for with the colorful, exciting interior. The retro inside brings you back to an era when pizza was a pastime, featuring a floor-to-ceiling, graffiti-style mural. It is like someone grabbed a Brooklyn neighborhood pizzeria and dropped it directly into the Westwood Village. At $2.00 for a generous slice of cheese pizza, the prices are almost as old school as the dŽcor.

At such a value, my expectations for the pie were low, but I was surprised and delighted to find that Giannoni's oversized triangle slices are quite tasty. The slices also come piping fresh, right out of the oven and on to your plate.

The crust is thin enough to fold over, but at the edge it puffs up and crackles into craters. A bubbly layer of mozzarella, dripping with deliciousness stretches over the zesty tomato sauce in typical East-Coast fashion.

What makes this pizzeria unique is the option to build your own slice. Giannoni's offers a large variety of toppings, including green pepper, jalapenos, roasted eggplant, artichoke hearts, prosciutto, and salami.

You cannot go wrong with the simple, but flavorful, margherita pizza. If you want more of Giannoni's delectable crust, sample the breadsticks. Soft and warm, they are sprinkled with roasted garlic and the perfect consistency for dipping.

Located in the Westwood Village shopping center, Giannoni's Pizzeria is open daily with lunch to dinner hours. $

Shadowland

By Amanda Halm

Sunny Outlook for Shadow Land

To escape the beating rain of the West Seattle winter, I decided to warm up in Shadow Land, a 21-and-over wine and tapas bar that opened on action-packed California Avenue in November.

As you step inside, the gentle glow of orange pendants and flickering votives illuminate the bar's dark, warm interior, while soft rock music adds a romantic ambience. Tonally, the restaurant is reminiscent of other California Ave eateries- Mission and Matador. Like Mission, Shadow Land is dominated by a couple of flat-panel TVs over the bar, tuned to ESPN, and thankfully on mute.

Dressed head-to-toe in black, the wait staff seems frazzled, but friendly and quick to point to out a booth to patrons waiting awkwardly in the doorway. Shadow Land has an extensive beer and wine list and a variety of small plates, entrees, and desserts. The menu is a good mix of Mediterranean, French and American fare and the prices range from $7 for the small plates up to about $30 for an entree. Wine averages come in at about $9 a glass and a beer costs about $6 for one of their fine imports.

Don't let the term "small plate", fool you. The portions are larger than typical tapas joints and truly must be shared. Poutine, a traditional Canadian dish with fries, gravy, and cheese curds, arrived in heaping portions - enough to feed three people. This flavorful dish is heavenly, the salty cheese curds and fries complement each other perfectly, and the smooth gravy adds a rich, meaty touch.

Another fine wintry food on the menu was the Butternut Squash Soup. It was velvety and soft, but too heavy on the cream, and the distinct sweet flavor of butternut just wasn't strong enough. The soup came served in a cute crock, and the accompanying toastettes were a fine touch.

Not only does Shadow Land offer a variety of tapas, there are also several entrees to choose from. Although they are priced fairly high, the portions are large, and you will leave with a doggy bag in tow.

The roasted chicken has a flaky, golden skin and is a solid entree. It is served atop a bed of mashed potatoes with silky pan sauce, mixed with herbs. Simple greens balance out the meal perfectly.

The dessert list has a nice range of dishes from the refreshing and fruity to the rich and sweet. The chocolate torte delivers against expectations. It was sweet with a robust chocolate flavor, but not overly sugary or dry. Light and airy, the huckleberry whipped cream intensified the chocolate with a nice accent.

Like all relatively new restaurants, Shadow Land has a few kinks to work out. It appears to be striving towards a true identity, and I would be excited to see how it improves in a few months. For now, it is a great place for friends and couples to share a few small plates on a chilly winter evening. 4458 California Ave. SW., 21 and over.$$$

Amanda Halm writes restaurant reviews for Robinson Newspapers.

Lunch Ladies

When all else fails, try Lee's Asian

Lee's Asian Restaurant

4510 California Ave. S.W.

932-8209

By Emily Williamson

When all else fails, and nothing else sounds quite right, there is always one restaurant Miranda and I choose for lunch, Lee's Asian. It is consistent as it is tasty, and everything on the menu is affordable.

On this day we wandered in at 2 p.m. I was (as usual) ravenously hungry, and we were seated right away. The dŽcor was subtle and pleasant, nothing too extravagant. We were greeted with smiles, (everyone that works there is very nice) and water. Our orders were taken immediately. As I stated before, everything is tasty, so it was not hard to choose off the menu. My favorites are the Seven Flavor Beef, Honey Glazed Walnut Prawns (dinner menu), Kan Gai Chicken, and the Tumka Gai Soup, (dinner menu).

For this lunch we ordered the Kan Gai Chicken and the Crispy Sesame Chicken (Miranda's pick). We also had a choice of hot and sour or rice soup, I chose the hot and sour, Miranda the rice. We chatted for a few minutes before our lunch came (but it wasn't long before it arrived!)

What did Miranda, my advisor on life, relationships, lunch choices, and laundry soap, (she can get stains out of everything) talk about that day? Bridges. She talked about how build to sustain bridges. Figurative ones, that is.

There are many reasons that I respect Miranda, much of which I won't describe here, but one of the most remarkable things about her is that she is uncanny with the truth. She tells it like it is. She does not add sugar, spice, does not boil it or alter it. One can always be sure of exactly where Miranda stands on an issue. If she's mad, you'll know it. But she is also quick to forgive, to mend, and repair.

It was about the repair she was discussing this day.

"It is important to always try to mend relationships, even if they seem irreparable," she stated as the soup arrived.

My soup was tasty, and as it sounds, hot and spicy. It was a clearish thick broth with strips of mushroom and a tangy soft twang. I slurped mine up while Miranda spoke.

"Sometimes in life, the connections we have with people are severed. People's feelings get hurt, maybe they fight over money, they fight over how they want to be seen, they fight over other people, of who was right and who was wrong, who was the villain and who was the innocent, but the most important thing to remember is that bridges really can burn Emily. People really do go their separate ways."

I was shocked. I was thinking Miranda was going to profess that all conflicts eventually heal and everyone will all get along in the end.

That was not the case.

Our food arrived on the heels of our soup. We scooped rice onto our plates (brown and white) and spoonfuls of the hot entrŽes. We ate family style, so that we both could sample the dishes.

I took a few bites and then stopped to listen to Miranda. What she said had disturbed me, and I wanted to hear more.

"That is why it is so important to not to burn bridges, to make wise and considerate choices, and always remember to forgive," she smiled. "To forgive is to mend the bridges. It is also important to have compassion. To have compassion creates bridges of light. To have compassion means you are always ready to see the best in people and to build bridges wherever and whenever they need to be built."

That was more like it, Miranda was magic! Suddenly the world went from a place of unhappy failed relationships and burning bridges to a world of hope and potential.

After her encouraging words I was ready to turn toward our meal.

The Kan Gai chicken was tender and smooth; with strips of bamboo shoots, bell peppers, and supple chicken breast, sautŽed in a smooth and creamy coconut Thai curry sauce. The savory tang of the sauce made my mouth itch for more. I could have eaten a bowl of straight sauce.

Miranda's pick was delicious. It was a large tray of what looked like fried candied chicken. The outer layer was crispy but not hard, with a shiny deep orange gleam. I crunched into a soft piece of chicken, perfectly cooked. The pieces were sprinkled with sesame seeds and were mildly spicy, with sesame and a touch of citrus.

As usual, Lee's was delicious, and the whole meal was under $15!

Before too long Miranda and I were happy and full, with enough food left over to bring to another friend.

As we were leaving, Miranda turned to me and laughed, saying, "If all else fails, give someone some good food. Good food heals everything!"

Emily Williamson has lived in West Seattle for over ten years and loves it. She can be reached at fuzzycaterpillar@comcast.net