ongoing

Soldier Care Packages: A donation drive is under way to send care packages to soldiers in Iraq. A drop box is outside Safeway now. Show your support by donating cards and letters, magazines, ground coffee, gum, mints, microwave popcorn, nuts, dried fruit, non-chocolate granola bars and other non-chocolate snacks, Crystal Light “on the go” drink mix packets for water bottles, Pringles chips, travel-size toiletries, and DVDs. Contact: Shari Morisset: 780-5312.

Sustainable Holiday: This holiday season, give sustainably. Use the online guide, compiled by Sustainable Bainbridge, to find creative gift ideas that are environmentally friendly, community-minded, and support our local economy. Included you’ll find information on arts and crafts sales, do-it-yourself gift workshops, charitable giving options, local events and experiences and more. View the guide at www.sustainablebainbridge.net.

PAWS Wish List: A holiday drive is under way through Dec. 22 to collect items on the PAWS of Bainbridge Island wish list, which includes canned food, cat litter, trash bags, and paper towels. Donations can be dropped off at Animal Magnetizm, 8926 Miller Rd.; Paws ‘n Fins pet store, 360 Tormey Lane; or directly to the PAWS Cat Adoption Center, 8820 Miller Rd. Contact: Cindy Jones at Happy Dogs Pet Services, (360) 620-1824.

Holidays Around the World: Registration is now open for a new monthly, project-based KiDiMu Enrichment Camp. On the first two Tuesday and Thursday mornings children will research a new topic through hands-on activities, creative drama, fact-gathering and meetings with expert guests. In December, children will get ready for diverse local holiday celebrations. Meet from 9:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Dec 2, 4, 9 & 11. For ages: 4-6. Cost: $125 members, $145 non-members per month. Space limited. Registration/info: 855-4650 or www.kidimu.org.

Boys’ LAX: Registration is now open for the 2009 boys lacrosse season for grades K-12. Register online at www.bainbridgelax.com. Late fees go into effect for grades 3-12 after Dec. 12. Questions regarding scholarships should be directed to Pam Heater, 780-1994. Other registration questions: Wendy Arnhols, bilax.registrar@gmail.com.

Alternative GiftS: The Alternative Gift Project catalog is now available for holiday shoppers who prefer gifts that help make a better life and environment for families locally and around the world. Sponsored by the Social Action Committee of Cedars Unitarian Universalist Church. For a free copy, call 780-0373 or download from www.cedarsuuchurch.org.

Enchanted Mirrors: Sally Prangley redefines mirrors in “Enchanted Mirrors” – an art show devoted entirely to the object that reflects our wildly fascinating outer selves. See the work through December in the lobby of Bainbridge Performing Arts. Info: www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org.

Powell Sale: A rare offering of art is available from Bainbridge Arts and Crafts from the estate of Rosalyn Gale Powell. The 57 works include oil paintings, formal drawings and casual sketches dating back to 1944. Proceeds go to BAC’s Rosalyn Gale Powell Scholarship. For closer inspection or to purchase, call The Gallery, 842-3132. View the work at www.bacart.org/resale.html.

Agate Passage Friends: Agate Passage Friends Meeting (Quaker silent worship) meets at 10 a.m. every Sunday at Seabold Hall, 14454 Komedal. The Agate Passage Friends discussion of spiritual poetry is at 9 a.m. the first Sunday of each month, also at Seabold Hall. Info: tembree@hotmail.com.

Santa’s Little Helpers: Kids Discovery Museum invites young crafters to make unique gifts for friends and family, and share the holiday spirit! Each week, the classes feature a different project guided by an art docent. All supplies provided. Meet 10:30 a.m. to noon Dec. 16 and 23; and 1:30-3 p.m. Dec. 16. Info: www.kidimu.org.

Theatre School Registration: BPA Theatre School is now accepting registration for its winter classes for grades 1-8. Shows include “Winnie-the-Pooh” for grades 1-4 and “The Little Prince” for grades 5-8. Classes meet January. through March Download registration forms at www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org/education/theatreschool.html or call 842-8578.

Creation Station: In addition to current exhibits at the Kids Discovery Museum, on Wednesdays children are invited to have fun and use their imagination while creating, building or experimenting with different materials. Free with admission or membership. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Info: 855-4650 or www.kidimu.org.

Restorative Yoga: Join restorative yoga classes from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each Friday at the Bainbridge Commons. Through modification of traditional yoga poses by use of “props” and breath work, participants are guided in postures that relax and restore. Info: 842-1616.

Exploring Childhood: This Bainbridge High School class, taught by Susan Nielsen, operates a preschool two days a week from 1-3 p.m. through June. Contact: Jeanne Hanson, 780-1394.

Volunteer at KiDiMu: Kids Discovery Museum offers opportunities for teenagers (14 and older) and adults to assist with special events, camps, day-to-day operations, programming and more. A paid birthday party assistant opportunity now also available (must be 16 or up). Info: Anne Griesser, 855-4650 or anne@kidimu.org.

folk Dancing: European Folk Dancing with instruction will be held from 7-9 p.m. Thursday evenings at Bainbridge Ballet, 945 Hildebrand Lane. Cost: $5/$3. No partner necessary, but please bring comfortable, non-street shoes for dancing. Contact: Fred or Linda, 780-8036.

Crafts at KiDiMu: Each Tuesday this fall, come to the Kids Discovery Museum to make season-inspired artistic creations. Free with admission or membership. Info: 855-4650 or www.kidimu.org.

BAC in December: Contemporary art, craft and design come together in the final exhibit of Bainbridge Arts and Crafts’ 60th anniversary. “Function and Form: Art that Works” runs through Dec. 29, Information: www.bacart.org.

Evening Healing Prayer: A contemplative service blending song, story, ritual and prayer with the intention of opening our hearts, mind and bodies to a healing presence. Designed and led by Kathie McCarthy and Ann Strickland. Held the first Thursday of every month at Grace Episcopal Church. Info: www.gracehere.org.

The Big One: Small earthquakes happen every day and go largely unnoticed, but Pacific Northwesterners all remember the “Big One,” the Nisqually earthquake of 2001. Can it happen again? The Big One: Earthquakes in the Pacific Northwest, on display through Dec. 31 at the Bainbridge Historical Museum, demystifies the power of earthquakes in our region. Information: www.bainbrigehistory.org.

Wednesday 10

December Delights: Stop in for a storytime and craft program for preschoolers, their families & caregivers, at 10:30 a.m. Dec. 10 at the Bainbridge Library. Info: 842-4162.

BIRW: Bainbridge Island Republican Women will host a luncheon for Republican women and men at 11:30 a.m. Dec. 10 at Wing Point Golf and Country Club. Holiday music presented by the Bainbridge High School Jazz Choir will entertain guests. Cost: $18. A contribution of food or a cash donation for Helpline House is encouraged. Reserve: 842-0900 or mbs45@yahoo.com.

Human Rights Declaration: To honor the 40th anniversary of the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights there will be a public reading of the Declaration at noon Dec. 10 in front of Bainbridge Performing Arts. Representatives of Bainbridge Island faith communities will share in the reading. Because Wednesday is an early dismissal day for the public schools, children and youth are welcome, and youth participation in the reading is encouraged. Contact: Bill Scarvie, bscarvie@znet.com.

VIP: Visually Impaired Persons’ support group will hold its monthly meeting from 1-3 p.m. Dec. 10 at the Bainbridge Public Library. We’ll have a dessert social in honor of the holiday season. Info: 842-4162.

Half-Day FuN: Kids Discovery Museum invites families to enjoy special activities on early dismissal days. At 1:30 p.m. Dec 10, meet and greet with Arthur. At 2 p.m. join an award-winning author Lynn Brunelle for pure bottled magic and physics in her Pop Bottle Science presentation. Also, a new Creation Station is available all day. Info: 855-4650 or www.kidimu.org.

City Council: The City Council will meet at 5 p.m. Dec. 10 in Council Chambers, City Hall. Agenda will include continued discussion of the Capital Facilities Plan portion of the 2008 budget (5 p.m.), Council Committee Reports, quarterly update from the Ethics Board, mayor’s report with update on proposed Kitsap Transit fare and service changes, Ethics Board and Civil Service reappointments and continued public hearing on Ord. 08-08, Capital Facilities Plan and 08-30, Adopting 2009 budget and Endorsing 2010 budget. Complete agenda at www.ci.bainbridge-isl.wa.us.

Pool Carnival: Dive in to the holiday pool carnival from 6-8 p.m. Dec. 10 at the Aquatic Center. Kids will delight in games, prizes, and activities. Kids under 17 pay $5 and can bring an adult for free. Info: 842-2302.

Thursday 11

MiniMu: The MiniMu program, designed especially with the visitors 3 and under in mind, is now regularly hosted at KiDiMu. This fun, hands-on playtime in the exhibit space offers an opportunity to meet families who share similar interests. Info: 855-4650.

After Hours: Join the BI Chamber for its After Hours holiday party, from 5:30-7 p.m. Dec. 11 at American Marine Bank on Winslow Way. Snacks, beverages, music and holiday cheer. The public is welcome. Info: 842-3700.

A Good Yarn: Join the library knitting and needlework group – bring your work in progress. We look at new knitting books, and discuss what we’ve been reading, too. Meet from 7-9 p.m. Dec. 11 at the Bainbridge Public Library. Info: 842-4162.

Plan Comm: The Bainbridge Planning Commission will meet at 7 p.m. Dec. 11 at City Hall. Agenda includes study sessions on core district design guidelines and Innovative Housing Ordinance, and new/old business. Info: 842-2552.

Audubon: The Kitsap Audubon Society will meet from 7-9 p.m. Dec. 11 at the Poulsbo Library, lower level. Public welcome. The program is “Dragonflies – Rainbows on the Wing,” presented by Dennis Paulson. Information: www.kitsapaudubon.org.

Once Upon a Mattress: Join Bainbridge Performing Arts for a retelling of the beloved Broadway musical “Once Upon a Mattress.” The show runs Dec. 11-21 at BPA, with performances at 7:30 p.m. Thurs-Sat and 3 p.m. Sundays. Tickets, $24/$18, are at www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org.

Friday 12

Senior HOliday Party: All ages welcome to celebrate the holidays with the Bainbridge Island Senior Community Center from 4-7 p.m. Dec. 12 at the Commons. Enjoy dinner, music and conversation. Bring your family and friends or come on your own. Donation at door. Info: 842-1616.

Star Party: The Battle Point Astronomical Society presents a talk by David Fong, “Mars – a New View form Space Probes to Landers,” at 7 p.m. Dec. 12 at Ritchie Observatory, Battle Point Park. Fong will discuss the geology, weather, water history and habitability of Mars in light of knowledge gained from missions thus far. Info: 842-9142.

Holiday Lights: The annual Senior Center holiday party wil be followed by the popular holiday lights trip, from 7-10 p.m. Dec. 12. We’ll depart from the Senior Center. Fee: $10. Must preregister, 842-1616.

Meaning of Christmas: Nationally known dancer and storyteller Betsey Beckman and writer-artist Christine Paintner bring to life the wonder, anticipation and promise of Christmas and our invitation to slow down and savor the depth of this holy season. Come at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12 at St. Cecilia Catholic Church. Donations accepted at the door. Info: (206) 201-3039.

PEGASUS TUNES: From Brooklyn, N.Y., Heather Masse of the “Wailin’ Jennys” plays here with her own band, “The Heather Anne Band,” at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12 at Pegasus Coffee House. Cover: $10. Info: www.myspace.com/heathermassemusic or 842-6725.

Oliver!: Ovation! Musical Theatre Bainbridge’s holiday production of the family musical “Oliver!” Dec. 12-21. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays. Tickets, $22/$18/$15, are at Winslow Drug, Mills Music, www.ovationmtb.com or at 842-0472.

Saturday 13

Boating Course: The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will conduct an American’s Boating Course from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 13 at the Bainbridge Commons Kalgren Room, 402 Brien Dr. The course offers recreational boaters information and instruction on safety equipment, boat handling and trailering, navigation, rules of the road and much more. Completion meets the state’s mandatory boating educational requirements. Cost: $35. Registration: Joe Dunstan, 780-0523.

Co-Op Woodshop: Attend a second informational meeting about the proposed co-op woodshop at 9 a.m., Dec. 13 at the Bainbridge Island Senior Community Center. Contact: Roger Lauen, 780-2400.

Solstice Run: The seventh annual Soltice Run takes place on Dec. 13. For runners and walkers. One-mile starts at 9 a.m., 5K at 9:30 a.m. Kids’ dashes and awards follow. Start and finish at City Hall park, next to BPA. Race info and registration forms are at Poulsbo Running and at www.island-fitness.com/solstice_run.cfm, wiht day-of-race registration at Bainbridge Performing Arts. Proceeds benefit Go Run!, an after-school running program for fifth and sixth-grade girls.Info: 855-8685 or (206) 718-2665.

Paradigm Shifters: December Paradigm Shifters meetings will be from 9:30 a.m. to noon Dec. 13, with an evening video meeting from 7-9 p.m. Dec. 15 and an evening discussion from 7-9 p.m. Dec. 22. All meetings are at Virginia Villa Apartments, 200 High School Rd.. Umbrella theme: “Evolving Consciousness.” Info: 780-9417 or www.paradigm-shifters.net.

Trail Work: The next Trails Advisory Committee monthly work party is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 13. Meet at the Marshall Road Trailhead of the Gazzam Lake Park Trail. We’ll be replacing logs alongside some of the steeper sections of the trail and removing organic vegetation as well as perfoming general clean-up of the trail. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own water and snack. Tools will be provided by the Park District, but people are welcome to bring along their favorite trail tools as well. Contact: Dan Hamlin, 842-3373 or dan@biparks.org.

Santa Photos: You’re never too old for a picture with Santa. Photos will be taken from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 13 and 20 at American Marine Bank. Nick Felkey will shoot in exchange for a $5 donation or non-perishable food item for Helpline House. Info: www.bainbridgedowntown.org.

Winter Farmers Market: Only two Saturdays of the winter market left! Stock up on seasonal produce, garlic braids, Island-grown wines (including strawberry dessert wine). Grab wreaths, garlands, and ornaments for your holiday decor; gingerbread, fruitcake, Christmas cookies and pastries, jams and jellies. Get great gifts like jewelry, artglass, women’s and children’s wear, bags and totes, fleece and yarns, woodware, Native American art, mosaics, hand-made soaps, lotions, and potions. Stop by from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 13 at Eagle Harbor Church, indoors and outdoors. Info: www.bainbridgefarmersmarket.com.

Book Sale: Friends of the Library will hold a book sale from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 13 at the Bainbridge Public Library. Proceeds benefit the library. Info: www.bifriends.org.

Home for the Holidays: Bainbridge Chorale and Ovation! Musical Theatre Bainbridge will co-present a holiday caroling event once again this year, “Home for the Holidays,” at 4 p.m. Dec. 13, at Eagle Harbor Congregational Church, corner of Madison and Winslow. Free; cash and non-perishable food donations will be collected for Helpline House. Song sheets provided. Info: www.ovationmtb.com.

Las Posadas: Share a cross-cultural experience at Bethany Lutheran Church as we celebrate “Las Posada” at 6 p.m. Dec. 13. This festive event includes singing in Spanish and English, eating tamales and other potluck dishes, and watching the youth blast a pinata. The free event is a traditional Mexican re-enactment of Mary and Joseph’s trials as they travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search of lodging and are eventually welcomed into comfort and security. Contact: Bethany Lutheran, 842-4241 or Carlos Valenzuela, (360) 697-5050.

PEGASUS TUNES: island songwriter, Ethan Perry, www.myspace.com/ethanjperry, plus Seattle guitarist/composer Brad Yaeger, www.bradyaeger.com, play at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13 at Pegasus Coffee House. Suggested donation: $5. Information: 842-6725.

Second Saturday Dance: Join Sheila and guest instructor Gene Magalanes for Second Saturday Dance, Dec. 13 at Island Center Hall, 8395 Fletcher Bay Rd. A Salsa workshop runs 7:30-8:15 p.m. followed by DJ’d dance. Cost: $10/$5 at the door. Info: www.educatedfeet.net.

Sunday 14

Woodward Signing: Mary Woodward will appear from 1-4 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum, 215 Ericksen Ave. She’ll answer questions and sign copies of “In Defense Of Our Neighbors; The Walt and Milly Woodward Story,” which tells the story of the Woodwards and their fight to help our community deal with the internment its Japanese American citizens. Signed copies of “Picture Bainbridge” and “Port Blakely: The Community Captain Renton Buil” will also be available. Free. Info: www.bainbridgehistory.org.

SHOEMAKER AND THE ELF: Mary Shaver, puppet master and world traveler, will perform her special holiday program at 2 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Bainbridge library. A captivating event for adults and children alike! Info: 842-4162.

Farm Walk: Join a walking tour of the Day Road Farm area at 2 p.m. Dec. 14. Meet at the farm stand; from there we’ll walk through seven agricultural properties, returning to the meeting point. Bring warm clothes and boots. Sponsored by the Trust for Working Landscapes. Contact: Bart Berg, 842-7547 or bart@bainbridge.net.

Santa Photos for a Cause: Get a photo with Santa at the Windermere Bainbridge office at 3 p.m. Dec. 14 at Winslow Corner, 584 Winslow Way East. A $5 donation or non-perishable food item for Helpline House is requested. Info: ssydor@windermere.com.

Art Reception: Join local artists Patrick Gulke and Drew Kunz for a reception of their work, from 4 – 6:30 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Bainbridge Public Library. Info: 842-4162.

christmas Ship: The annual Christmas Caroling & Lighted Boat Paradewill be held at 5 p.m. Dec. 14 in Waterfront Park. We’ll provide a song leader (Rick Barrenger), sound equipment (Music Community Resources), sheet music, candles and hot cocoa. To participate in the lighted boat parade, contact Bob Scoonmaker at the Chandlery. Everyone welcome; dress warmly and bring your kids to this free family-friendly event. Contact: The BI Chamber, 842-3700.

OPEN MIC: All ages and styles welcome for songs, instrumentals, poems, and readings at MCR Open Mic, 7-9:30 p.m. Dec. 14 and every Sunday at Pegasus Coffee House. A piano is available. Hosted by Rick Barrenger. Info: www.pegasuscoffeehouse.com

Monday 15

Lights, Camera, Holiday: Let BITV record your holiday salutation, then watch it with friends and family on the island’s weekly newscast, B-News. Visit us from noon-2 p.m. Dec. 15 & 17 on the corner of Winslow Way and Madrone Lane, or stop by our studio from 4-6 p.m. Dec. 15 & 16. Contact: Penny, 780-2980 or penny@bitv.org. See you-on air!

Kyrgyzstan Trunk Show: From the Tien Shen Mountains of Kyrgyzstan comes an extraordinary collection of art and handicrafts, including one-of-a-kind wool felt rugs, embroidered wall hangings, housewares, toys for children, hats, slippers and unique silk scarves with felt inlays. The collection includes both traditional work and contemporary designs by Kyrgyz artists. The benefit sale takes place from 1-8 p.m. Dec. 15 at the Bainbridge Commons, 370 Brien Dr. Info: (360) 385-4519.

Winter Concert: The Island School invites the community to its first annual Winter Concert, featuring students in grades kindergarten through fifth grade in choral and class presentations. Enjoyable musical interludes provided by Mike Derzon and Jon Green. Refreshments will be served. The concert will be held from 7-8 p.m. Dec. 15 at the school’s Webster Hall, 8553 Day Rd. Free. Contact: Kathy Matulys, 842-0400 or kathy@theislandschool.org.

Tuesday 16

Field’s End: Children’s author George Shannon discusses the topic “Does Size Really Matter? Age of Reader – Length of Book,” from 7-8:30 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Bainbridge Public Library. Shannon is the author of more than 30 books for children, including picture books, folk tales and “puzzlers,” and was recently among this year’s recipients of the Washington State Book Award for “Rabbit’s Gift.” Open to writers of all levels and interests. Info: www.fieldsend.org.

Evergreen Singers: The ever-popular Evergreen Singers present a special and festive concert, “Sounds of the Season” at 10:30 a.m. Dec. 16 at the Commons, 402 Brien Dr. Join us for a warm and beautiful celebration of the season. Invite family and friends to join you. Info: the Senior Center, 842-1616.

Book Discussion: Join Bainbridge librarian Julie O’Neill on Dec. 16 at the Senior Center for a discussion of “The Glass Castle” by Jeannette Walls. The Group meets at the Senior Center every third Tuesday of the month. Info: 842-4162.

Coming Up

BIGS: The Bainbridge Island Genealogical Society will meet at 10 a.m. Dec. 19 in the Bainbridge Island Public Library Meeting Room for our annual “Show and Tell About Your Family Research.” Members will share their ancestral charts and histories, family heirlooms and stories. If you have always wanted to search for your ancestors, this is a good place to begin by listening to and asking questions of our members. Info: www.bigenealogy.org or 842-6059.

the Gift of Life: Puget Sound Blood Center wil hold blood drives from noon to 6 p.m. Dec. 19 at the Bainbridge Commons, 370 Brien Dr., and noon to 6 p.m. Dec. 29 at the American Legion Hall, 7880 Bucklin Hill Rd. (closed 3-3:45 p.m.). Info: madbromley@aol.com.

Star Party: Battle Point Astronomical Association will host a breathtaking trip through a spectacular stellar nursery. Catch “Take a Ride on the Orion Nebulae, Birthplace of Stars,” at 5 p.m. Dec. 20 at Ritchie Observatory, Batttle Point Park. The show will include an image-enhanced planetarium presentation; if the sky is clear, astronomers will be on hand with telescopes for a close look at astronomical objects. Info: 842-9152.

Tingstad and Rumbel: Grammy Award winners Tingstad and Rumbel perform virtuoso American finger-style guitar and beautiful melodic woodwinds inspired by music from America, Asia, the British Isles and Spain. Join them for their annual Bainbridge concert at 7 p.m. Dec. 21 at Island Center Hall, 8395 Fletcher Bay Rd., and celebrate their new CD, “Leap of Faith.” Tickets: $18 advance at Winslow Drug or the Park District Office, 842-2306, or $20 at the door. Info: www.tingstadrumbel.com.

Night at the Museum: Kids Discovery Museum offers a unique opportunity to welcome the New Year with activities for the whole family from 6 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. New Year’s Eve. We’ll have arts and crafts, movies, exhibit exploration, music, and a New Year’s countdown at midnight. Childcare also available for ages 4 and up. Cost: $100 per family; childcare: $75 per child minus $20 for each additional child. Registration/info: 855-4650.