For Tuesday

Contagion: Ebola Facts and Fiction

West Africa is currently under the largest Ebola outbreak in history. While fleets of brave health care workers rush to the front lines to help beat back the epidemic, we in the states are left wondering if and when the virus will make its way to us in great numbers. These concerns range from the measured ("We should probably start screening flights from affected areas") to the insane ("We should quarantine New York!")

The Washington Global Heath Alliance and CodeMed want to help educate the public and debunk irrational fears with a panel of experts who certainly know more than your reactionary mother-in-law. These panelists include oe DiCarlo, Director of Emergency Relief & Global Security, Medical Teams International, and Dr. John Lynch, Harborview Medical Director for the Infection Control Center.

Contagion: Ebola Facts and Fiction, Tue, Nov 4, 6:30–9pm, Town Hall, 1119 Eighth Ave, $1

For Wednesday

National Philanthropy Day

If there is one thing you can say about philanthropists, its that they are really good at doing selfless things with their money. If there is a second thing you can say about philanthropists, its that they are just as good at honoring each other for doing selfless things with their money.

At National Philanthropy Day, come be part of the back-patting and know it is, as always, for a good cause. Five local honorees, including individuals and institutions, will be honored for their commendable work in putting time, money, and effort toward their passion for helping others.

National Philanthropy Day, Wed, Nov 5, 11:30am–1:30pm, Westin Seattle, 1900 Fifth Ave, $90–$1,000

Advance Notice for November 9

Cal Anderson Day

Cal Anderson was many things: Vietnam veteran, activist, political aide to city council members and Seattle mayors. As a member of the Washington House of Representatives and ultimately a state senator, Anderson was our first openly gay state legislator. Anderson died of AIDS-related illness in 1995.

On Cal Anderson Day, take a moment to reflect on the man and celebrate how far we've come as a state since his tenure as a legistlator and leading figurehead for the causes that have come to define the city's political identity. 

Cal Anderson Day, Sun, Nov 9, Various locations, Free