Community Calendar | Dec. 16-31

The following is the Bainbridge Island Community Calendar for Dec. 16-31.

Support groups

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS: For Bainbridge meeting times and locations go to www.bainbridgeaa.com or call 855-8366.

Overeaters Anonymous: OA meets at 9:15 a.m. Saturdays in the Singer Room at Eagle Harbor Congregational Church. A new Wednesday meeting starts at 5 p.m. at Island Terrace Apts. Community Room, corner of High School Rd. and Ferncliff. Info: Call 780-0121.

Grief Support Group: Support for anyone who has lost a loved one, will begin in September and meet on the second and fourth Thursdays, from 5-6:30 p.m. at Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church.  Sponsored by Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers; contact ivc@bainbridge.net or 842-4441.

Caregivers Support Group: Anyone caring for a loved one who is ill is invited to meet on Tuesdays, from 2-3:30 p.m., at Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church; sponsored by Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers. Contact ivc@bainbridge.net or 842-4441.

Support Group for Men: Men who have an illness of any kind meet on Mondays, from 11 a.m. – noon at Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church; supported by Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers. Contact Tom at tbarry56@msn.com or 360-698-4939.

Support Group for Women with Cancer: A group continues to meet on Mondays from 1-2:30 p.m. at Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church.  Contact karen.carson@comcast.net or 842-3539.  This group is hosted by RBPC.

Ongoing

Fields End Winter Classes: Registration is underway for three Field’s End winter classes “The Art of Research, “ led by Wendy Call; “Marketing Your Book to Agents or Publishers” with Alice B. Acheson; and “Writing Your Memoir” with Corbin Lewars. Register soon; classes begin in January. Info: www.fieldsend.org or 842-4162.

Bloedel Miniature Village: The miniature Holiday Village and Model Railroad exhibit hand-built by Dwight Shappell, former owner of Dwight’s Flowers on Bainbridge, will be back bigger and better this year from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 4-31 at Bloedel Reserve. Cost: Free with admission to Bloedel. Info: visit www.bloedelreserve.org.

Toys For Tots: Cook Family Funeral Home sponsors the U.S. Marine Corps “Toys For Tots” program during the holiday season.  The 2011 Toy Drive will begin Nov. 21 and end Dec. 23. There is a larger need this year to help needy children. Please bring your toy donations to the funeral home at 163 Wyatt Way. We will also be collecting funds and food to benefit Helpline House and Fishline in Poulsbo. Info: visit www.cookfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Elementary School Tennis: Sign-ups have begun for Bainbridge Community Tennis Association (BCTA) tennis at Blakely, Odyssey, Ordway and Wilkes. Program runs after school, Jan – Feb, in each school’s gym, is for 8-10 year olds, and ends with an all school tournament.  Contact Bainbridge Community Tennis Association (BCTA) at 855-0632 or bainbridgecta@gmail.com to reserve a spot.

KiDiMu: The award-winning museum is now open for fun seven days a week from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sundays from noon – 4 p.m. Info: www.kidimu.org or call 855-4650.

Reiki Circle: Reiki Circle meets second and fourth Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. New members welcome. New to Reiki? No problem. Classes and attunements available. Call Mary at 206-384-7081.

Friday 16

BIGS: The Bainbridge Island Genealogical Society (BIGS) will meet at 10 a.m. Dec.16 in the Bainbridge Public Library meeting room for our annual “Show & Tell” gathering of members sharing ancestral tales and treasures. Visit with members to find out what BIGS offers to those who join.  Suggested donation for non-members is $5. Info: visit www.bigenealogy.org or call 855-9457.

IMC Concert: Celebrate the darkest night of the year with the light of music, storytelling and wonder. with Hanz Araki and Kathering Claire at 7 p.m. Dec. 16 at Island Music Center. While he may be best known for his playing and singing of Celtic music, Araki’s deep roots are in the shakuhachi, the traditional bamboo “Zen flute” of Japan. Hanz (short for Hanzaburo) is the world’s only sixth-generation shakuhachi player.Advance tickets $20 at info@islandmusiccenter.org or 780-6911.

Nutcracker Suite: The Olympic Performance Groups presents Nutcracker 2011 with shows Dec. 16-18, Friday through Sunday at 7 p.m. and matinees on Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m., at BPA, 200 Madison Ave. Presented by NW Strength Lab and Bainbridge Ballet, this production features fast hip hop, graceful ballet, storytelling lyrical, and powerful contemporary dance styles. Cost: $28 adults, $24 for seniors, students, youth, military and teachers and are available at www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org or by calling 842-8569. Info: visit www.olympicperformancegroup.org.

Brigadoon: Ovation! Musical Theatre Bainbridge presents three more performances of “Brigadoon” from Dec. 16-18 at the BHS Theatre, 9330 High School Rd. A live orchestra and a seasoned cast bring the magical village to life under the direction of Ron Milton with musical direction by Todd Hulet. Costume design by Shannin Strom-Henry. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday. Cost: $15-$24 at Winslow Drug, online at www.ovationmtb.com, by phone at 842-0472 and at the door.

Saturday 17

Friends of the Farms Christmas Tree Sale: Locally harvested Noble Firs are available for sale at the historic Morales Farm on the corner of Lovgreen and Highway 305. Hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays Dec. 3-18. Select from a variety of sizes for just $3 per foot. 100 percent of the proceeds will support local farming. Come enjoy complimentary hot cider and homemade cookies. Contact Bart at 206-380-5327 or bartonbainbridge@gmail.com.

Farmers’ market: The final 2011 Farmers’ Market is from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Eagle Harbor Congregational Church. Check out the selection of Island-grown Christmas trees and handmade wreaths. The farmers will be outside selling produce and local grass-fed meats and inside you’ll find specialty foods, fine arts and crafts, holiday trimmings and more. Time and Tide will holiday tunes from will perform from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Admission is free. Info: visit www.bainbridgefarmersmarket.com.

Santa photos: Photographer Nick Felkey will be taking photos with Santa from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 17 at Columbia Bank on Winslow Way. Bring a can of food or cash donation to benefit Helpline House. Info: www.bainbridgedowntown.org.

Gingerbread House Art Station: Visit a special Holiday Art Station at KiDiMu from Saturday, Dec. 16 to Sunday, Dec. 18. Create the season’s favorite and most delicious construction. All materials will be provided. Available: Weekdays and Saturday, 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sunday: 12:30 – 3 p.m. Free with admission or membership.  Info: 855-4650 or visit www.kidimu.org.

West Sound Cycle: Santa will be joining the West Sound Cycle Club for a leisurely clockwise ride around Dyes Inlet departing at 9 a.m. Saturday Dec. 17. The 25-mile route will go along Traceyton Blvd, across the Manette Bridge, and through downtown Bremerton. The group will return along Chico Blvd. and circle the Kitsap Mall. Ride starts and ends at the Silverdale Beach Hotel, The cycling public is welcome to participate. Info: Contact Tim Baker at (360) 340-5944.

Toys for Tots: A free screening of the family favorite movie “Elf,” starring Will Ferrell, will be at 10:30 a.m. Dec. 17 at Bainbridge Cinemas. Bring a donation of a gift item for “Toys for Tots.” Buddy was a baby in an orphanage who stowed away in Santa’s sack  and was raised by elves. Santa allows him to go back to New York City to find his birth father when he becomes an adult. When his father interferes with his job, Buddy is forced to reevaluate his priorities. Info: visit www.bainbridgecinemas.com.

Free Community Caroling: Ovation! Musical Theatre Bainbridge and Bainbridge Chorale unite to present the fifth annual free community caroling event, “Home for the Holidays,” at 4 p.m. Dec. 17 at Eagle Harbor Congregational Church. Directed by Todd Hulet and accompanied by piano and a small ensemble. Songsheets provided. Free, but donations for Helpline House are accepted. Info: visit www.ovationmtb.com or www.bainbridgechorale.org.

Holiday Kids’ Night at kiDiMU: (aka Parents’ Night Out) is from 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. Dec. 17 at KiDiMu. Kids are invited for a fun-filled evening of playtime, games, movies and a pizza dinner, while parents catch up on holiday errands or enjoy a night out. On this special evening, children will create seasonal crafts. Recommended ages: 3.5-10 years old. Participants must be able to use bathroom independently. Registration required by noon on Friday. $30 per child/ members and $40 per child/ non-members; $10 off per sibling. Info: 855-4650 or www.kidimu.org.

Dickens Reading Dickens: Island Theatre at the Library presents Tim Tully in “Dickens Reading Dickens” at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 17 and at 2 p.m. Dec. 18 at the Bainbridge Public Library, Directed by Steve Stolee, local actor Tully recreates the popular live appearances given by Charles Dickens during the decade before he died in 1872. In authentic Victorian costume, Tully will deliver a reading of some of his most favored works including “A Christmas Carol,” “Oliver Twist” and “Great Expectations.” Free. Info: www.islandtheatre.org.

Sunday 18

Underwater Photos with Santa: Exotic Aquatics Scuba & Kayaking will host an underwater photo with Scuba Santa event from 10 a.m.-noon Dec. 18 at the Bainbridge Aquatic Center. Prior scuba experience is not required, but certified divers are welcome. Pre-registration is required by calling 842-1980. Cost is $19.99. Minimum age to participate is 8 years old. Try scuba diving and get the most unique Christmas card out there. Info: call 842-1980.

Yoga For Everyone: Paul King leads yoga class at 11 a.m. Sundays at the The Grange, 10304 Madison Ave. Cost: donation. Info: (206) 459-6898.

KISS: Kitsap Senior Singles will meet at 1 p.m. Dec. 18 at the East Bremerton Elks Picnic Shelter, 4131 Pine Rd. All Seniors are welcome for a potluck (bring a dish to share) come and share your friendship, bring cards and games to play. Share your Christmas cheer. There will be a fireplace and heaters. Info: call 360-275-3256 or 360-698-1175.

Drum Circle: A drum circle led by Dennis Pryor is at 2 p.m. Sundays at The Grange, 10304 N. Madison Ave. All levels welcome. Bring a drum or borrow one. Cost: $10 donation. Info: (360) 598-2020.

IMC Concert: Island Music Center presents Kaivama Finnish-American musicians Sara Pajunen and Jonathan Rundman of the folk duo KAIVAMA in a concert at 3 p.m. Dec. 18 at Island Music Center. Enjoy danceable rhythms, joyous melodies, icy whispers, sleek construction, primal drones, and poppy hooks that all interplay as Pajunen and Rundman explore the music of their ancestors.   Tickets are $10 and available at the door or in advance at www.islandmusic.org.

Monday 19

Ethics board: The COBI Ethics Board will hold its regular meeting from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 19, at the Commons conference room. Info: Visit www.ci.bainbridge-isl.wa.us.

Tuesday 20

Field’s End Roundtable: The Field’s End team discusses the topic, “Books That Inspire and Keep Us Writing,” at the Field’s End Writers’ Roundtable, 7-8:30 p.m., Dec. 20, at the Bainbridge Public Library, 1270 Madison Ave. This event is free and open to writers of all levels and interests. Information: visit www.fieldsend.org or call 842-4162.

PTSD: Parenting Teens with Sanity and Dignity – a support group for parents with challenging teens will meet from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 20 at Island Educational Services,  724 Erickson Ave, NE, Suite 101. Info: email ptsdbainbridge@gmail.com or call Sally Kidder Davis at 206-451-7203.

Recreational Singing: Sing with a group from 7:30-9 p.m. Tuesdays at Island Music Guild. Led by David Webb, the group will sing traditional American folk songs. No experience required. Info: visit www.singalongalive.com.

Wednesday 21

City Council Meeting: The Bainbridge Island City Council will reconvene on Jan. 4. Info: Visit www.ci.bainbridge-isl.wa.us or contact Rosalind Lassoff, City Clerk, 780-8624, cityclerk@bainbridgewa.gov.

Thursday 22

Beach Naturalist Walks: Join the Bainbridge Beach Naturalists for guided trips, now called Beach Naturalist Explorations, to explore our local beaches and learn more about the life of our shores. Bring rubber boots and a flashlight. Families welcome. Walk is at low tide at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 22 underneath Bainbridge ferry dock. Info: call 842-5133 or email bainbridgebeach@gmail.com.

Coming up

Hanukkah Party: Congregation Kol Shalom’s Hanukkah party is at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23 at 9010 Miller Rd. Potluck dessert and a latke contest will feed us, along with song, arts and crafts, dreidel spinning, and candle lighting. Kabbalat Shabbat starts off the night. Info: Call 842-9010 or email admin@kolshalom.net.

Book Sale: Friends of the Library Book Sale is from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 27  at the Bainbridge Public Library, 1270 Madison Ave. Info: Call 842-4162 or visit www.bifriends.org.

Reporting the Arab Spring: John Thorne, who grew up on Bainbridge Island, talks about his experiences covering the uprisings in Tunisia and Libya for the Arab newspaper, The National at a free presentation from 7-8:30 p.m. Dec. 27 at the Bainbridge Public Library.Info: www.krl.org.

MESSIAH SING-ALONG: Bainbridge Chorale invites the community to join in the third annual Sing-Along of Handel’s “Messiah.”  Join Chorale members and the Messiah Festival Orchestra in the thrill of singing the most popular choruses and arias, at 7 p.m. Dec. 27, at Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church, 11042 Sunrise Dr.  Admission is by suggested donation to support its youth and educational programs: Adults and seniors $10; students, teachers, military $5; Children under 13 admitted free.  Info: visit www.bainbridgechorale.org or call 780-2467.

New Years Eve Masquerade Ball: Celebrate New Year’s Eve with an evening of music and dancing Dec. 31 at BPA. Bring your own mask or purchase one at BPA for this masquerade ball and fundraiser for the Bainbridge Symphony Orchestra. Waltz at 9 p.m., swing at 10 p.m., and DJ at 11 p.m. Suitable for ages 21 and older. Dec. 31 from 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. Cost: $50 per person at 842-8569 or www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org.

Mochi Tsuki: Celebrate 2012 with the 23rd anniversary of a Bainbridge Island Japanese American community tradition, Mochi Tsuki, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 8 at IslandWood, 4450 Blakely Ave. Staff and volunteers will offer tours of the award-winning School in the Woods. The event is free and donations for mochi are welcome. Parking is limited at the site and nearby Blakley Elementary School; carpooling is strongly encouraged. Highlights include performances from the acclaimed Seattle taiko drum group Kokon Taiko, and to comply with fire safety laws, each of the three taiko drum performances will be limited to 175 seats. Free tickets for each performance will be available on a first come, first served basis.

First Sundays Concert: First Sundays at the Commons presents TangleTown Trio on Jan. 8 at 4 p.m. at the Bainbridge Commons, 402 Brien Dr.  The trio, which is comprised of mezzo-soprano and composer Sarah Mattox, violinist Jo Nardolillo, and pianist Judith Cohen, is dedicated to the idea that the music of our own time should speak to us profoundly and connect with the audience. Their concert will present a  program called “Song Nouveau,” which features newly composed art songs by Sarah Mattox and Mark Olivieri that combine elements of nature and life. The program also includes a Sonata by Aaron Copland performed by Cohen. Tickets, $20 per person, are available on line at www.brownpapertickets.com. Info: Visit www.tangletowntrio.com or www.firstsundaysconcerts.org.

Auditions: Ovation! Musical Theatre Bainbridge will hold auditions for the Gilbert & Sullivan comedy “The Pirates of Penzance“ from 3-8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14 at the Bainbridge Commons, 402 Brien Dr.  All parts are open. This production has been selected to commemorate Ovation!’s 20th show. It was produced in 2004 and was Ovation!’s most popular show.  This will be a new staging. For the audition prepare a song from musical theatre, opera or operetta (in English) and bring piano music in your key for the accompanist.  A monologue is not required.  The production will be directed by Ron Milton with music direction by Todd Hulet and choreography by Babette Gazarian-Cherne’.  Info: Visit www.ovationmtb.com.

Holiday Tree Recycling: Keep your car clean and the Island green by having   Boy Scout Troop 1564 recycle your holiday tree on Saturday, Jan. 7.  A tradition for 15 years, it’s easy and it’s green to turn your holiday tree into mulch for use on Bainbridge Island.  To schedule a pick-up, sign up at www.treerecycle.net or call 780-2722 and leave a message.  A $10 donation is requested.  Attach cash or a check to BSA Troop 1564 in a plastic bag on the tree and leave at the curbside by 8 a.m. Bainbridge Island addresses only.  Your donation has helped Troup 1564 accomplish a number of community service projects, build equipment, and participate in scout experiences.

The EDGE Improv: Kick off the New Year and calibrate your funny bone with an evening of improv comedy starting at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 8 at BPA. Join The EDGE for an ingeniously improvised evening of on-the-spot comedy, all from audience suggestions. Tickets: $16 adults, and $12 seniors, students, youth, military and teachers. Info:  842-8569 or visit www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org.

The Outsiders: BPA presents “The Outsiders” Jan. 13-22.: Based on S. E. Hinton’s book, “The Outsiders” has been read by millions of teenagers and has influenced young adults around the world. Though set in 1960s rural Oklahoma, this coming-of-age play — with its themes of family strife, class division, and bullying — is immediate and relatable. Suitable for PG-13 audiences. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m.; A Pay-What-You-Can preview is at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12 ; Opening Night reception is at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13. Tickets: $27 for adults, $22 for seniors, and $19 for students, youth, military, and teachers are available by calling 842-8569 or at www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org.