Healthy LIving Expo: The fourth annual Healthy Living

Healthy LIving Expo: The fourth annual Healthy Living Expo is slated for Jan. 24, 2009 at Woodward Middle School, with speakers, workshops and demos, pre-Chilly Hilly warm up ride, cross-country races, kids’ activities and more. The Chamber of Commerce is offering a 20 percent discount to Chamber members. Vendor applications available online at www.bainbridgechamber.com, or call 842-3700.

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Healthy LIving Expo: The fourth annual Healthy Living Expo is slated for Jan. 24, 2009 at Woodward Middle School, with speakers, workshops and demos, pre-Chilly Hilly warm up ride, cross-country races, kids’ activities and more. The Chamber of Commerce is offering a 20 percent discount to Chamber members. Vendor applications available online at www.bainbridgechamber.com, or call 842-3700.

KiDiMu Enrichment Camps: Marilyn Putnam and Chari Allen (of Happy Days) invite kindergarteners and preschoolers for a new project-based program, KiDiMu Enrichment Camps. Each month on the first two Tuesdays and Thursdays, children will research a new topic through hands-on approach. Classes run February – June 2009. For ages: 4-6. Cost: $100/members, $125/non-members. Sign-up available for one or more units. Registration is now open for Free Demo Classes in January: Discover the Sea Life of Puget Sound. Schedule: 9:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Jan. 6 or 8; 12:30-3:30 p.m. Jan. 13 or 15. Sign-up by Jan. 2 required to participate free of charge. Info: www.kidimu.org; Registration: 855-4650.

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.

Boys’ LAX: Registration is now open for the 2009 boys lacrosse season for grades K-12. Register online at www.bainbridgelax.com. Late fees in effect. 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.

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.

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. Led by Judith Bardsley. 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 is currently seeking flyer distributors (commitment of one hour per month or more). Other temporary and long-term opportunities are also available. Contact: Lisa at 855-4650 or lisam@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.

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.

Wednesday 17

December Delights: The next December Delights storytime and craft program for preschoolers, their families and caregivers will be held at 10:30 a.m. Dec. 17 at the Bainbridge Public Library. Info: 842-4162.

Santa’s Little Helpers: This month, young crafters are invited to the Kids Discovery Museum to make unique gifts for friends and family. While creating their own special surprises, children will practice manual skills and use their imagination. Each week, the classes feature a different project guided by an art docent. All supplies provided. Helpers of all ages welcome! Meet next from 1:30-3 p.m. Dec. 17. Free with admission or membership. Info: 855.4650 or www.kidimu.org.

ACE: The next meeting of ACE, Adult Children of Elders, will be at 3 p.m. Dec. 17 at Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church. The topic might be how to deal with the holidays with ailing parents but there will be opportunity for all to share their situation and worries and get some help. Contact: Beulah Downing, 780-8008.

city council: The City Council will hold a special meeting at 7 p.m. Dec. 17 in Council Chambers, City Hall. Agenda includes includes approval of Lodging Tax Advisory Committee 2009 funding recommendations, and third reading and adoption of Ord. 2008 – 08, the 2009 – 2014 Capital Facilities Plan, and Ord. 2008-30, Adopting 2009 Budget and Endorsing 2010 Budget. Info: Roz Lassoff, City Clerk, 780-8624, rlassoff@ci.bainbridge-isl.wa.us r visit www.ci.bainbridge-isl.wa.us.

Meet the Author: For the past eight years, wildlife photographer Steven Kazlowski has followed and photographed polar bears and other Arctic wildlife.  Some 200 of these remarkable images form the centerpiece of “The Last Polar Bear.” Meet Kazlowski at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 17 at the Bainbridge Public Library. Info: 842-4162.

THURSDAY 18

West Sound Open: See North Kitsap’s own independent college preparatory and arts school. West Sound Academy will hld Open House teas at 9 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Dec. 18 at its campus near Poulsbo,on Creative Way off S.R. 305. Now accepting applications for January 2009 transfers and for the 2009-2010 school year. Map and additional details at westsoundacademy.org or (360) 598-5954.

Little Woodstock Demo: The youngest visitors (birth-5) are invited to the Kids Discovery Museum for a melodic adventure with Heather Scott, a music and movement educator of Music Together. This class, which begins at 10:30 a.m. Dec. 18, is part of the MiniMu Thursdays program, now regularly hosted at the museum. Complimentary coffee availalbe to parents and caregivers. Free with admission or membership and for infants under 1. Space limited; sign-up recommended at 855-4650.

Chuckwagon: Chuckwagon Senior Nutrition Program invites seniors age 60 and over to attend a special holiday lunch at noon Dec. 18. The meal will be served at locations in East Bremerton, Port Orchard, Kingston, Silverdale, Poulsbo and Bainbridge Island. Call by 2:30 p.m. Dec. 17 for reservations and location information. Suggested donation: $3. Reservations: (888) 877-8511.

Library Board: The Kitsap Regional Library Board of Trustees will meet at 6 p.m. Dec. 18 at the Sylvan Way Library, 1301 Sylvan Way in Bremerton. Public always welcome. Information: (360) 405-9100.

Park Board: The board of the Bainbridge Island Metropolitan Park & Recreation District will hold a regular board meeting at 6 p.m. Dec. 18 at Strawberry Hill Center, preceded by an executive session at 5:30 p.m. Board meeting agenda includes public comment; newspaper of record; annual board retreat; Parkland Acquisition Committee members; and Resolution 2008-32, Interfund Transfer, Camp Y eomalt project. Information: 842-2306.

Lighted Bike Ride: Light up the night. Make your bicycle as bright as possible with holiday or other lights and join Squeaky Wheels as they ride through Winslow on their annual Lighted Bike Ride. Start at the Marge Williams Center at 6 p.m. Dec. 18. After a short ride, cocoa and festive treats will be served. Contact: Dana Berg, veloberg66@msn.com.

Plan Comm: The Bainbridge Island Planning Commission will hold a special meeting at 7 p.m. Dec. 18 at City Hall. Agenda includes a public hearing; study session on the Inclusive Affordable Housing Ordinance; and new/old business. Info: 842-2552.

Once Upon a Mattress: Join Bainbridge Performing Arts for a retelling of the beloved Broadway musical “Once Upon a Mattress.” The show runs Dec. 18-21 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 19

BIGS: The Bainbridge Island Genealogical Society will meet at 10 a.m. Dec. 19 in the Bainbridge Island Public Library Meeting Room for its annual “Show and Tell About Your Family Research” meeting. Members will share 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. Information: www.bigenealogy.org or 842-6059.

Holiday Story: Shaun Pearson invites children to the Kids Discovery Museum for holiday moves and grooves from 11 a.m. to noon Dec. 19. The actor and drama teacher will work with the kids to bring a Holiday Story alive through creative movement, beginning drama, and lots of fun. Free with membership or admission. Recommended ages: 3 & up. Info: 855-4650 or www.kidimu.org.

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.). Information: madbromley@aol.com.

Pegasus Tunes: Rick Barrenger leads a Christmas sing-along at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 19 at Pegasus Coffee House. Suggested donation: $5. Info: www.myspace.com/rickbarrenger or 842-6725.

Oliver!: Ovation! Musical Theatre Bainbridge’s holiday production of the family musical “Oliver!” Dec. 19-21. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday. Tickets, $22/$18/$15, are at Winslow Drug, Mills Music, www.ovationmtb.com or at 842-0472.

Saturday 20

Farmers Market: The Bainbridge Island winter market runs 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 20 at Eagle Harbor Church, corner of Winslow Way and Madison Avenue. You’ll find seasonal produce; pastries, tarts, buche de Noel, gingerbread, and fruitcake; jams and jellies; tamales, soup, and coffee. Bainbridge Vineyards has released its much-awaited raspberry dessert wine; Perennial Vineyards offers its strawberry dessert wine. Great gift shopping, too: jewelry, wearables for This is the last market until next April. Info: www.bainbridgefarmersmarket.com.

Meet Arthur: Visit KiDiMu to meet the famous aardvark in person at 11 a.m. Dec. 20. Be sure to shake his hand and take a photo. Afterward, explore Arthur’s World, a national traveling exhibit based on Marc Brown’s books and PBS series, on view at the Kids Discovery Museum until Jan. 23. Free with admission or membership. All welcome. Info: 855-4650 or www.kidimu.org.

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.

Island Theatre: Island Theatre at the Library presents “Greetings,” a holiday comedy by Tom Dudzick, at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 20 and 21 at the Bainbridge Public Library. Directed by Fred Saas. A young man brings home his Jewish atheist fiancé to meet his very Catholic parents on Christmas Eve. With the inevitable family explosion comes an out-of-left-field miracle that propels the family into a wild exploration of love, religion and truth. Free; donations welcome. Info: www.islandtheatre.org/schedule/greetings.

Pegasus Tunes: Americana singer/songwriter Rachel Harrington presents songs from her new CD, “City of Refuge,” at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 20 at Pegasus Coffee House. Suggestsed donation: $5. Info: www.rachelharrington.net or 842-6725.

Sunday 21

soul-Stice: The Spiritual Enrichment Center of WestSound will host a special Solstice service, at 10:30 a.m. Dec. 21 at Island Music Guild, 10598 Valley Rd. The service will focus on “Soul-stice – Celebration of Light, From Darkness into the Light.” All are welcome to join in the music, songs, meditations, and celebrations. Pot-luck begins after service. Info: 842-5330.

Hope House Fundraiser: The nonprofit Hope House of Bainbridge Island will hold a fundraiser from 1-4 p.m. Dec. 20 at Stephens House, 191 Winslow Way, across from Winslow Green. Fresh mini-donuts, hot chocolate and Santa. Bring your cameras! Suggested donation: $3. Info: 855-8383.

Chanukkah Party: Congregation Kol Shalom and Shir Hayam Chanukkah will hold a Chanukkah party and latke-off, from 5-8 p.m. Dec. 21 at Congregation Kol Shalom, 9010 Miller Rd. Bring your own menorah and candles. All are welcome. Info: www.kolshalom.net.

Open Mic: All ages and styles welcome for songs, instrumentals, poems, and readings at MCR Open Mic, 7-9:30 p.m. Dec. 21 and every Sunday at Pegasus Coffee House. A piano is available. Hosted by Rick Barrenger. Info: www.pegasuscoffeehouse.com

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.

Monday 22

Tuesday 23

Last-Minute Workshop: It’s your last chance to make unique gifts for friends and family at the Kids Discovery Museum. Through the Santa’s Little Helpers Club, from 10:30 a.m. to noon Dec. 23, kids are welcome to create their own special surprises, use thier imaginations and share the holiday spirit. All supplies provided. Info: 855-4650 or www.kidimu.org.

Coming Up

Library Closure: The Bainbridge Public Library and all Kitsap Regional Library branches will be closed Dec. 24 and 25 and will close at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 31. Info: www.krl.org.

winter Crafts: Kids Discovery Museum invites young crafters to make season-inspired artistic creations at 10:30 a.m. Dec. 30. The program is recommended for ages 3-10. This guided activity is presented by staff and volunteers. Free with admission or membership. Info: 855-4650 or www.kidimu.org.

Night at the Museum: Kids Discovery Museum invites families for Night at the Museum, the New Year welcoming event from 6-9:30 p.m. Dec. 31, with fun activities for all ages. Attractions include: arts and crafts, movies, exhibit exploration, music, a New Year’s countdown and a balloon drop at 9 p.m. It’s a great way to support the museum, while having fun. Food and nonalcoholic beverages included in the price. Admission: $100 per family (tax deductible contribution to KiDiMu); Proceeds will support the Museum’s exhibits and programming. RSVP by Dec. 26. Info: www.kidimu.org; Registration: 855-4650.

Tree REcycling: Keep your car clean and the Island green! Boy Scout Troop 1564 will conduct its annual Christmas Tree Pick-up fundraiser on Jan. 3. For a suggested $10 tax-deductible donation, we’ll pick up and haul away your tree for recycling – Please have all decorations removed and your tree at the curb by 8:30 a.m. for pick up. Signup: www.treerecycle.net or 780-0246 and leave a message.

Sustainable First Monday: Join Sustainable Bainbridge in a discussion on emergency preparedness and strategies for defining and enhancing your neighborhood relationships. We’ll focus on building relationships, planning for short term situations, and preparing for long-term sustainable neighborhoods. Bring your neighbors! Meet from 7-9 p.m. Jan. 5 at the Bainbridge Commons, 402 Brien Dr. Free. Info: www.sustainablebainbridge.net or 842-4439.

KiDiMu Enrichment: Teachers Marilyn Putnam and Chari Allen invite preschoolers and kindergarteners for a sneak preview of the new project-based enrichment camps. Each month on the first two Tuesdays and Thursdays, children will research a new topic through hands-on approach. February brings Rain Forests – Living Beneath the Canopy. Cost: $100/,embers, $125/non-members per four-class unit. Sign-up available for one or more units. And don’t miss a fee demo class in January: Discover Sea Life in Puget Sound for ages: 4 – 6. No adult participation required; meet from 9:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Jan. 6 or 8 and 12:30–3:30 p.m. Jan. 13 or 15. Registration required, 855-4650. Info: www.kidimu.org.

Weed Warriors: Learn about poison oak, the Weed Warrior “Weed of the Month,” from 10 a.m. to noon Jan. 10 at Ft. Ward Park. Identification and removal information available. We will also do a “Broom Sweep” of Scotch Broom and other noxious weeds. Park near the boat ramp. Info: jfranks@bainbridge.net.

Compassionate Listening Training: Leah Green, founding director of the Compassionate Listening Project, presents “Be a Powerful Peacemaker in Your World,” or how to cultivate greater compassion for yourself and others, create and sustain healthy relationships, suspend judgment, maintain balance in the heat of conflict, and listen and speak from the heart. The training, which runs 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Jan. 10 and 17 at the Bainbridge Commons, has grown from Green’s 18 years of reconciliation work on the ground with Israelis and Palestinians, and the international community of Compassionate Listening facilitators. Registration: www.bainbridgelistens.eventbrite.com or (360) 297-2280. Info: www.compassionatelistening.org.

Israeli Dance: Congregation Kol Shalom will hold monthly Sunday dances from January through May. Israeli dance is fun, easy to learn and great exercise! The next dance will be on Jan. 11 at CKS, 9010 Miller Rd. Kids and beginners from 4:30-6 p.m., $5 a head/$12 a family; main dance at 7 p.m., $8 a head/$12 a family. Ask about group discounts; ;reschoolers are always free. No partner needed, all dances taught. Wear non-scuffing shoes and comfortable clothes. Info: www.kolshalom.net or email c.tice2@comcast.net.

David Knibb: David Knibb, author of “Grizzly Wars, the Public Fight over the Great Bear,” will discuss bears in the Northwest, with emphasis on the remnant population of grizzly bears that still inhabit the North Cascades. His discussion, from 7-9 p.m. Jan. 15, will include the importance of grizzlies to the ecosystem, the challenges they face, and efforts underway to protect them. Pre-registration recommended. Free to the Public. See www.islandwood.org.