For Friday

The United States of A.L.E.C.

Ever heard of the American Legislative Exchange Council? A.L.E.C. is the group of politicians and corporations that influences many of our laws.

This Friday, check out the documentary that explores the motivation (hint, corporate profits) behind the laws they push through. Stick around after the film for a discussion.

The United States of A.L.E.C., Friday Night at the Meaningful Movies, Fri, January 3, 7–9:30pm, Keystone Congregational United Church of Christ, 5019 Keystone Place N, free

Words, Writers, West Seattle

Love reading and supporting small, local businesses?

Check out this week's featured writer in the Words, Writers, West Seattle series, Robert Spector, author of The Mom & Pop Store: True Stories from the Heart of America. Spector, who grew up in the family butcher business, traveled the country to examine independent bookstores, flower shops, and even a soda pop shop. 

Robert Spector, Words, Writers, West Seattle, Fri, January 3, 4–6pm, Barnes & Noble Westwood Village, 2600 SW Barton St, free

For Saturday

Dirt! The Movie

Dirt is crucial to life on earth: it provides food, water, and climate regulation. Yet one-third of our topsoil has been lost in the last 100 years, causing global warming, droughts, and widespread hunger. Conflict over the remaining supply has led to violence and even war in some places.

Dirt: The Movie explores both the disastrous consequences of our soil destruction and ways in which we can get back to soil cultivation and sustainable living.

Dirt: The Movie, West Seattle Meaningful Movies, Sat, January 4, 7pm (doors open at 6:30), High Point Neighborhood House, 6400 Sylvan Way SW, free (donations accepted)

For Sunday

Candidate Forum

The Unity Coalition is holding a candidate forum for Washington State Democratic Party Chair.

A diverse panel featuring representatives from a batch of caucuses—such as the Jewish, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, African American, Asian Pacific Islander, and Stonewall caucues—will question the five candidates: Jay Clough, an Eastern Washington Democratic activist and failed U.S. rep and state house candidate; Jim Kainber, a former state party executive director and Olympia lobbyist; Dana Laurent, a former Planned Parenthood political director and current executive director of the liberal campaign group theWin/Win Network; and Jaxon Raven, the current Democratic state party executive director. 

King County Executive Dow Constantine is moderating.

Get there at noon for food, or 1pm for the start of the forum.

The Unity Coalition's Candidate Forum for State Party Chair, Sun, January 5, noon–3pm, IAM Union Hall, 9135 15th Pl S, free 

Advance Notice