ANNIE PROULX

The Shipping News author handles difficult characters in harsh environments. She should govern Seattle during the next snowfall. (Benaroya Hall, Oct 7)

JOEL HOLLAND

Every October we invite Puyallup’s world champion giant pumpkin farmer. Otherwise, he’d squash us.

KEN GRIFFEY JR.

Think of him as the Mariners medium: He helped bring back a winning team spirit.

CONNIE WATTS

National Coming Out Day is October 11. Equal Rights Washington’s executive director needs “out” voices to vote November’s Referendum 71 “in.”

JEREMY ENIGK

He and Sunny Day Real Estate reunite. It could work out but, you know, life sometimes sucks and—sorry, we’re getting emo on you. (Paramount Theatre, Oct 16)

GERARD SCHWARZ

Seattle Symphony’s maestro receives the 71st Seattle–King County First Citizen honor. Hope he conducts himself well at the ceremony.

RICHELLE MEAD

Good blood from Kirkland: She writes the popular Vampire Academy teen novels.

JACK CORDOVA

Georgetown Pharmacy closed last month after nearly 50 years under his ownership and operation. We prescribe him a well-earned vacation.