WEDNESDAY, OCT. 2 2013 >>>

1. We realize that many people feel as though tasting menus are nothing more than ego-driven romps from chefs who care more about their own artistry and craftsmanship than they do about the desires of diners, but I admire chefs with confidence, chefs who advocate a sense of adventure - chefs, for instance, such as Kyle Wnuk, who creates a different tasting menu every Wednesday night at Marrow Kitchen and Bar. For $25, you could taste the future as Wnuk's Wednesday night playground often results in permanent placement on a season's menu. The price tag is a deal, compared to ordering three courses off the regular menu. And more fun, too.

2. The award-winning Hilltop Artists hosts its seventh annual fundraising luncheon, "Better Futures," at 11 a.m. in the Hotel Murano. Attendees will hear directly from students, families and community members about the impact of Hilltop Artists' glass arts programs and outreach work. They will also be able to participate in a silent auction and share a meal with others who are invested in transforming the futures of our youth.

3. The Grand Cinema's Science on Screen series pairs screenings of classic, cult, and documentary films with lively lessons by notable figures from the world of science, technology and medicine. Each film is used as a jumping off point for the speaker to reveal current scientific research or technological advances, providing the perfect combination of entertainment and enlightenment - even for the most science-phobic culture vulture. At 7 p.m. The Grand screens the documentary Blackfish, which argues that keeping orcas in captivity at theme parks isn't good for the whales, or the people who work with them. Donna Sandstrum, Puget Sound whale researcher and director of TheWhaleTrail.org, will discuss what whale-related conservation work is being done in the Puget Sound and what is the status of our orca whale population. The film also screens at 2:10 and 5 p.m. without the whale chat.

4. The Maurice The Fish Records has grabbed Wednesday nights at Jazzbones, showcasing its roster at 8 p.m. Tonight, Rafael Tranquilino and Brooke Lizotte rock the house.

5. Be a part of history. Be able to say, "I saw Mirrorgloss when they first got together." The new Tacoma band performs at 9 p.m. at Magoo's Annex.

LINK: Wednesday, Oct. 2 arts and entertainment events in the greater Tacoma and Olympia area