ongoing

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.

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.

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. 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 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.

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.

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. Day-of-race registration is 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 and other delights. Also find 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 present a holiday caroling event, “Home for the Holidays,” at 4 p.m. Dec. 13 at Eagle Harbor Congregational Church. 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.

Once Upon a Mattress: Join Bainbridge Performing Arts for a retelling of the beloved Broadway musical “Once Upon a Mattress.” The show runs Dec. 13-21 at BPA, with performances at 7:30 p.m. Thurs-Sat and 3 p.m. Sundays. Tickets, $24/$18, are at www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org.

Oliver!: Ovation! Musical Theatre Bainbridge’s holiday production of the family musical “Oliver!” Dec. 13-21. 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.

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.

Celtic Christmas Concert: Windham Hill/Ark Music recording artists Jeff Johnson and Brian Dunning with Gwen Franz present a captivating evening of both traditional and original Christmas music played with celtic harmonies and jazzy flair. The show is at 8 p.m. Dec. 13 at St. Cecilia Catholic Church. Tickets $15/$12 at the door; 10 percent of ticket sales will benefit the Not For Sale anti-slavery campaign. For pre-concert group and will call sales call (877) 733-8820.

Sunday 14

Santa Photos for a Cause: Get a photo with Santa at the Windermere Bainbridge office from 10 a.m. to 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.

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 Public Library. Bring the family; a captivating event for adults and children alike! Information: 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. Information: Bart Berg, 842-7547 or bart@bainbridge.net.

Cedars Installation Ceremony: Cedars Unitarian Universalist Church will conduct a special installation ceremony for its new co-ministers, Dr. Barbara W. ten Hove and the Rev. Jaco B. ten Hove, at 3 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Island School. This will be the first installation ever for the 49-year-old congregation. A reception will follow the service. Children over nine are invited to attend the service. Childcare for younger children will be provided. Info: www.cedarsuuchurch.org.

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 Parade will 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. 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.

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.

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,” along with the first-person accounts of his wilderness adventures and compelling essays by noted authors on critical climate change issues. Meet Kazlowski at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 17 at the Bainbridge Public Library. Info: 842-4162.

THURSDAY 18

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. Info: (360) 405-9100.

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.

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 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.

Coming Up

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.