Auburn-area calendar of events | May 11

Auburn Tourism: For special events in the Auburn area, visit the Web site: www.auburntourism.com.

Events

Auburn Tourism: For special events in the Auburn area, visit the Web site: www.auburntourism.com.

Auburn Downtown Art Walk: 4-9 p.m., May 13; 10 a.m.-5 p.m., May 14,  along Main Street.  Opening reception is 4 p.m., May 13 at City Hall Plaza. Opening remarks, music by Kelly Eisenhour, and art on display throughout downtown Auburn. Free event to the public. Activities for all ages, music and performances as well as wine tasting. Presented by the  Auburn Valley Creative Arts, The Auburn Downtown Association, City of Auburn as well as artists and community members. To join the effort or to obtain more information, email AuburnArtWalk@gmail.com or visit  www.auburnartwalk.com.

Filipino American Fiesta: 6 p.m., May 14, Filipino American Community of Puget Sound Hall, 103 6th Ave. N, Algona. Event will feature dinner, live band, dancing, entertainment and raffles. Doors open at 6, dinner at 7. Cost: $30 per person.  For more information, contact Keith Flores at 253-833-4795.

Valley Cities Counseling and Consultation Resource Room and Open House: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., May 18, 2704 I St. NE, Auburn. Light lunch provided, as well as tours and other activities. No RSVP necessary.

Plaza Park dedication: 1:30 p.m.,  May 19, located directly across from Auburn City Hall, 25 W. Main St. Public is invited to join Mayor Pete Lewis and the Auburn City Council in dedicating the new gathering space located in downtown Auburn that connects the City Hall Plaza and the future South Division Street Promenade.  Meet the design team and architects who made the project possible.

Petpalooza Dog Trot: 9:30 a.m., May 21, Game Farm Park, 3030 R St. SE. Family-oriented fun run event that takes place in conjunction with Petpalooza. Participants will follow a 3K or 5K route. The course is flat, easy and enjoyable for all ages. Water will be available on the course for both dogs and human participants. First 100 people to register receive a free goodie bag. Registration includes T-shirts for early registrants and will be available on a first-come basis for late registrants. Additional T-shirts may be purchased for $10 each. Check-in and on-site registration begins at 8:30 a.m. Fee: $20 late registration (after April 29). Online application available at www.auburnwa.gov. Register in person at the Auburn Parks, Arts and Recreation office, 910 Ninth St. SE, or by mail to: Auburn Parks, Arts and Rec, attn: Dog Trot, 910 Ninth St. SE, Auburn, WA 98002, or fax at 253-931-4005. For more information, call 253-931-3043.

Petpalooza: 10 a.m.-7 p.m., May 21, Game Farm Park, 3030 R St. SE. An event for pet lovers, featuring an animal-related entertainment stage, Skyhoundz Disc Dog Championships, a petting area and pony rides, the “Unleashed” pet contests, agility areas, a noon pet parade, more than 150 vendor booths, giveaways and other activities. Information: 253-931-3043 or visit www.auburnwa.gov.

“Count Us In”: 5-8:30 p.m., May 25,  Kent Commons, 525 4th Ave. N., Kent.  A program for all South King County youth and young adults who are unstably housed or homeless,  Facilitated by Auburn Youth Resources in partnership with Kent Youth and Family Services and Valley Cities Counseling.  Need a ride? Meet at Les Gove Park, 11th and Auburn Way S. at 4:30pm.  More info: Call  Tim,  253-350-0836 or Maira, 253-326-6400.

Auburn community yard sale: June 3-5, throughout Auburn. Turn your unwanted household goods into cash and provide someone else with a new treasure. Be a part of the fun and have a single-family yard sale at your home or a multifamily sale with your neighbors June 3-5. Registration is now open and can be done by: • submitting an online registration; • download, print, fill and mail or bring in registration form to City Hall Utility counter located at 1 Main St. on the second floor; pick up a registration form at the City Hall Utility Counter, the Parks, Arts & Recreation Administration Building at 910 Ninth St. SE or the Senior Activity Center at 808 Ninth St. SE. Participants who register by April 30 will have their address listed in two local ads and on the City website. If you miss the registration period, you can still pick up a free yard sale kit at the City Hall utility counter or you can download materials from the City’s website. For more information, call 253-931-3047 during regular business hours.

Mother Earth News Fair: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m., June 4; 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., June 5, Puyallup Fairgrounds, 110 9th Ave. SW. Fun-filled, family-oriented sustainable lifestyle events that feature dozens of practical, hands-on demonstrations and workshops from the leading authorities on: renewable energy, small-scale agriculture, gardening, green building, green transportation and natural health. Between sessions, attendees enjoy an array of entertainment options, organic local food and beverages, as well as outdoor gardening and livestock demonstrations. Tickets: $25 pre-order weekend pass $30 at the gate; $15 pre-order one-day pass; $20 at the gate. Information: www.motherearthnews.com/fair/Puyallup.

Mary Olson Farm grand opening: 11 a.m.-2 p.m., June 18, 28728 Green River Road. For more than 15 years, the White River Valley Museum has been working with the City of Auburn to restore the Farm, the best preserved historic subsistence farm in King County. Auburn Mayor Pete Lewis will join museum and farm director Patricia Cosgrove for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11:30 a.m. Opening-day visitors will have the option of walking around the farm at their leisure or receiving a tour from a volunteer docent. Summer drop-in hours are available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. during these weekends: June 25-26; July 9-10, 23-24; Aug. 13-14, 27-28; and Sept. 10-11. Admission for the summer drop-in hours is $5 adults, $3 children/seniors and $15 for a household or family. For more information, call 253-288-7433 or visit www.wrvmuseum.org.

Auburn’s ArtRageous Art Festival: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Aug. 6, Les Gove Park, 1005 12th St. SE. Featuring artists of all media who be demonstrating, offering hands-on activities for all ages and selling artwork. Free one-day art extravaganza invites you to create and celebrate art in the park. Presented by the City of Auburn and produced by the Auburn Parks, Arts and Recreation Department. For information, visit www.auburnwa.gov/arts or call 253-931-3043.

“Hats and Heels, A Shopping Event and Night at the Races”: 5 p.m., Aug. 12, Emerald Downs, 2300 Emerald Downs Drive, Auburn. Shopping begins at 5 p.m., first race at 6. Shop, bet and celebrate fashion at the races.  Access to the shopping event is free with gate admission, and ladies are encouraged to dress in their finest, fashionable racing attire. VIP tickets: $30 and must be purchased in advance.  A portion of each ticket sale will benefit the Children’s Therapy Center.  To purchase tickets, please call 253-288-7704 or order online at www.emeralddownshatsandheels.com/. Tickets also can be purchased in-person at the track.

76th Running of the Longacres Mile: 2 p.m. first post, Aug, 21, Emerald Downs, 2300 Emerald Downs Drive, Auburn. The $250,000 Grade III Thoroughbred race is considered the industry’s Northwest jewel. Project Mile post is 6 p.m. For more information, call 253-288-7000 or visit www.emeralddowns.com.

Benefits

Auburn Relay For Life: 6 p.m. May 13-noon May 14, Auburn Memorial Stadium, 801 4th St. NE. Benefit for the American Cancer Society. If you would like to help, contact Ashley Thordarson at 253-670-9113. For more event information, please visit www.relayforlife.org/auburnwa.

Valley Christian School Science Fair, Auction, Dinner: 5 p.m., May 13, 1312 Second St. SE, Auburn. School celebrates 34 years of service. Spaghetti dinner begins at 5 p.m. (Purchase tickets in advance. Funds go toward the middle school’s  Washington, D. C. trip. Science fair begin at 5:45 p.m., followed by the auction at 7. View science projects in the classrooms, meet the teachers, learn about the school. Silent dessert auction; live auction for creative class theme baskets and class projects. Proceeds to support technology and classroom resources. Information: 253-833-3541.

Lot sale: Dusk to dawn, around 7 a.m.-7 p.m., May 14-15, Top Food & Drug, 1406 Lake Tapps Parkway E., Lakeland Hills. Benefit for the cystic fibrosis research.  Top Foods is making parking spaces in a designated area available for $50 per space per day on a first-come, first-choice basis. Spaces will be available from dawn to dusk both days. Payment may be made at checkout stands and vendors should keep their receipt. Spaces may be used by residents seeking to sell some excess items as well as businesspeople offering products such as crafts and cosmetics. Only one business per category of products will be allowed. Top Foods will donate proceeds from the parking-space rentals to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s Washington chapter. For more information about the foundation, visit www.cff.org. For more information about the lot sale, call Top Foods at 253-876-1700.

Auburn Symphony Gala, A Little Wine, A Lot of Music: 6:30 p.m., May 14, Meridian Valley Country Club, 24830 136th Ave. SE, Kent. Wine testing, silent auction, variety of music. Benefit for the Auburn Symphony Orchestra. Registration at 6:30, followed by wine testing, dinner and music. Cost: $50 per person. Country club attire, please. Purchase tickets online at auburnsymphony.org.

Empty Bowls: 11 a.m.-2 p.m., May 17, Grace Community Church, 1320 Auburn Way S. Benefit luncheon for the Auburn Food Bank. Cost: $15 minimum donation. Attendees can donate, then choose from among 200 handmade bowls by Green River Community Colleges students and professional potters. Organizers seeking donations of artisan bowls, soup, bread, beverages and cookies. For those who wish to donate, call the food bank at 253-833-8925.

PBC Auburn Cobras car wash: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., May 21, Les Schwab Tire Center, 17235 SE 272nd St., Covington. Proceeds to help cover the select baseball team’s summer tournament costs. In gratitude for the support of the local community, The Cobras will donate a portion of the proceeds to local charities. There is no set cost for the wash. All donations will be gladly accepted. Advance wash tickets can be purchased from team members. Please contact Jackie Johnston at 206-390-3316 or Kim Taylor 206-229-0517 for more information.

Terry Home, Inc.’s 19th annual Show and Shine: 7 a.m.-3 p.m. , May 22, Auburn Eagles, 702 M. Street SE, Auburn.  Car, truck and motorcycle show to benefit Terry Home, a Pacific-based, nonprofit organization that helps adults with traumatic brain injuries recover to independent living. Registration is from 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.  Fee: $15 pre-registered; $20 day of the show. Goody bags will go to the first 150 registered. Music, door prizes, raffle, T-shirts. Auburn Eagles will provide breakfast from 7-10 a.m. Terry Home will be selling lunch from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, contact Mary Norman at 253-833-5554 or visit www.terryhomeinc.org.

The Taste of Holy Family: 9-11 a.m., June 4, Holy Family Parish 505 17th St SE, Auburn. Knights of Columbus Auburn Council 3598 sponsoring the ethnic food and craft fair.  Live band, karaoke and games for the kids. Proceeds to support the parish. Craft or food vendors contact gk@KofC3598.org. For more information, go to www.KofC3598.org or call 253 931-8100.

Team Derek: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., June 11-12, 129 K St. SE, Auburn. Yard and bake sale, barbecue to support Derek Miller, who has been diagnosed with lymphoma. Proceeds to benefit the family with medical bills and treatment of their son. Any donation is gladly appreciated. A benevolent fund has been started for Derek by CK Worldwide, his employer and an Auburn business, and at any Columbia Bank in Derek’s name. Contact: Tammy Miller, 253-709-6728 or tammylmiller@comcast.net.

Auburn Garden Club Plant Sale: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., June 12, Peckenpaugh Drug Store parking lot, corner of East Main and M streets, Auburn. Selection of perennials, native plants, ,shrubs, indoor plants, sedums, in addition to a wide selection of books and magazines, garden gadgets. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the club’s community projects. For more information, call Dianne 253-839-6023, Tanya at 206-612-0021 or Barbara at 253-631-7118.

“See Ya Later” Tour: 10:30 a.m., Sept. 12, Indian Summer Golf and Country Club, 5900 Troon Lane SE, Olympia. Noon shotgun start for four-man scramble, followed by silent auction at 4 p.m., dinner at 6, evening festivities and oral auction at 7. Proceeds benefit the “See Ya Later” Foundation. Join the tournament as a golfer, sponsor, in-kind donor or inner guest. Pre-registration deadline is Sept. 1. Participation will be limited to the first 128 paid players. Basic player package, including lunch and dinner, is $150; or premium player package at $275. Register online at www.SeeYaLater.org or make checks payable to: “See Ya Later” Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 8,  Auburn, WA 97071. For more information: www.SeeYaLater.org, Brian.Williams@SeeYaLater.org, 253-332-5144.

Health

Cascade Regional Blood Center drives:  10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., May 23, Green River Community College, 12401 SE 320th St., Auburn; 7:30 am.-1 p.m., May 24, Jefferson High School, 4248 S 288th St., Auburn. For more information, call 1-877-242-5663 or visit www.crbs.net/home.

Puget Sound Blood Center drives:  For more information, call 253-945-8667  or please visit www.psbc.org.

Healthcare on a Budget: 10:45 a.m., May 15, Grace Community Church (Chapel), 1320 Auburn Way S. Auburn’s Dr. Linda Petter will present money saving tips and insider secrets in her presentation.  It is free to the public. Petter is a local doctor, author and consumer healthcare advocate. Whether you have insurance or not, families, individuals, and seniors will benefit from Dr. Petter’s information. Information: 253-833-5660.

Healthy Cooking: Demonstrations, Outpatient Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Services, Medical Gym, 701 M St., Suite 102, Auburn. Come learn health from the experts. A $5 food donation is requested. For more information, call 253-833-8766.

Classes

King County’s Noxious Weed Program: 6:30-8:30 p.m., June 7, Kent Regional Library, 212 2nd Avenue N. KC has scheduled a series of workshops devoted to controlling invasive knotweed – a tough invader that wreaks havoc wherever it establishes a beachhead along a stream or river. Details on all the classes are available at www.kingcounty.gov/weeds.

Clubs

Crazy Quilters of Federal Way:  A large, South Sound quilt guild founded in 1988 that meets twice monthly – second and fourth Thursdays (except for November and December) – for fun, education, networking and charity projects. 6 p.m. social hour, 7-9 p.m. Emeritus Assisted Living, 31002 14th Ave. S., Federal Way.  Guests are welcome to attend free of charge. Membership has annual fee.  Contacts: jillzquilts@hotmail.com, 253-833-8302, or quiltersfedway.com.

Libraries

NOTE: The Auburn Library will close for a year-long expansion on Sunday, May 29, at 5 p.m.  It will reopen at its temporary location, the former Herr Cabinets building, at 1140 Auburn Way S, on Friday, June 3 at 10 a.m. For program information, call 253-931-3018. Library events include:

CHILDREN & FAMILIES

Toddler ABC Story Times: 10:15 a.m., May 16, 23. Ages 2 to 3 with adult. Young children explore the alphabet through stories, songs, finger plays and action rhymes.

Preschool ABC Story Times: 11 a.m., May 16, 23. Ages 3 to 5 with adult, siblings welcome. Preschoolers develop pre-reading skills exploring the alphabet through stories, music and activities.

Tuesday Bouncing Baby Story Times: 10:05 a.m., 11 a.m., May 17, 24. Ages newborn to 24 months. Babies and parents will be bouncing along to short rhymes and books.

Wacky Wednesday Story Times: 10:15 a.m., May 18, 25. Ages 3 to 6. Join us for wacky books, felt board stories and jumping up and down rhymes. Special guests: Oscar Ostrich and Mousie’s ABC Mouse in the House series.

Sleepy Story Times: 7 p.m., May 12, 19, 26. All ages welcome, ages 5 and younger with adult. Wear your pajamas and bring your teddy bear to this 30-minute bedtime Story Time.

Book Buddies: 4 p.m., May 12, 18, 19, 25, 26.  Teen volunteers are available in the children’s area to assist elementary school students in kindergarten through 4th grade with their reading.

Around the World with Brian Vogan & His Good Buddies: 12:45 p.m., June 24. Held adjacent to the library in Les Gove Park. Ages 2 and older  Sing and dance on a fantastical trip with this amazing band. Learn to say “hello” in other languages, discover songs about strange animals while you hop, skip and jump around the world. Come see the Library2Go van.

TEENS

Study Zone: 5 p.m., May 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 31;  4 p.m., April 28. Grades K-12. Drop-in during scheduled Study Zone hours for free homework help from volunteer tutors.

Teen Book Club Reads:  4:30 p.m., May 17. “Hoot” by Carl Hiassen. The first eight people who sign up to attend will receive a free copy courtesy of the Friends of the Auburn Library. • 4:30 p.m., June 14. “Thirteenth Child” by Patricia C. Wrede. Held at the Les Gove Multi-Purpose Building in Les Gove Park. The first eight people who sign up to attend will receive a free copy courtesy of the Friends of the Auburn Library.

Teen Writers Group: 4:30 p.m., June 14. Held at the Les Gove Multi-Purpose Building in Les Gove Park. Working on a novel, short story, memoir, poetry or not even sure what you want to write? Join other teens to share your writing, gain ideas and practice your craft.

Read Three, Get One Free Summer Edition & Read•Flip•Win: Read three books, write three thoughtful reviews and get a prize book … free. This summer also will feature a video book review contest, Read•Flip•Win. Ask at the library for details.

ADULTS

Share your Love of Reading with Someone Who Cannot Visit the Library: Volunteer to select, deliver and return library materials to a shut-in patron at least once a month, for one year.  You must be age 18 or older and have reliable transportation. Training is provided and takes about an hour.  For more information, contact Susan LaFantasie, 425-369-3235 or 877-905-2008.

Genealogy Assistance: 1 p.m., May 14, 25; 7 p.m., May 9. Volunteers from South King County Genealogical Society will be available to answer your questions.

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL): 6 p.m., Mondays and Wednesdays, June 1, 6, 8, 13; . A formal class to learn English grammar, reading, writing and conversation skills. ESOL classes for the month of June will meet at the Green River Community College Downtown Auburn Center, located at 110 2nd St. SW, Room 145.

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Classes Summer quarter registration: 5:30 p.m., June 15. Due to the Auburn Library closure, registration will be at the downtown Auburn Center, located at 110 2nd St. SW, Room 145.

The Friends of the Auburn Library Meeting: 7 p.m., May 24.  The Friends support the library and programs. Join us.

Auburn Library Book Discussion Group: 6:30 p.m., June 13. Held at Zola’s Cafe, 402 E. Main St., Suite 120, Auburn. http://blogs.kcls.org/auburn/adults/.

Meet the Author: 6:30 p.m., June 13. Held at Zola’s Cafe, 402 E. Main Street, Suite 120.  Meet Richard LeMieux, author of “Breakfast at Sally’s.” LeMieux will speak about his book and the life-changing experiences he had as a homeless man living in his minivan.

Computer classes: Sign-up at the Information Desk or call 253-931-3018.

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Algona-Pacific Library, 225 Ellingson Road, Pacific. 253-833-3554. Library events include:

CHILDREN & FAMILIES

Live with Caspar Babypants: 11 a.m., May 19. Ages 2 to 5 with adult. Chris Ballew is better known as the lead singer of the Seattle-based rock and roll band, The Presidents of the United States of America. The group includes three singers, electric piano, electric guitar and percussion. The show will feature simple songs families can sing together to reinforce many concepts related to Early Literacy. Space is limited, first come, first seated. Program will be held at the Pacific Community Center Gymnasium, 305 Milwaukee Blvd S.  253-929-1155.

Toddler Story Times: 10:15 a.m., May 17, June 28. Ages 2 to 3 with adult. Join us for stories, rhymes, music and fun.

Preschool Story Times: 11 a.m., May 17, June 28. Enjoy stories, activities and music while children develop pre-reading skills.

Baby Story Time: 10:15 a.m., May 18, 25, June 1, 8, 15, 29. Newborn to 24 months with adult. Join us for a special one-on-one bonding time with bounces, rhymes, stories and play time. One baby per lap, please.

Pajama Story Time: 7 p.m., May 23, June 27. Ages 3 and older with adult, siblings welcome. Fun stories, music and activities before bedtime. You are welcome to attend in your pajamas and bring your favorite stuffed friend.

Sticks and Stones, Seeds and Bones Concert: 11 a.m., June 21. Presented by Nancy Stewart. Ages 2 and older. From a goat’s toenail to gourds and stones, anything that makes a sound can make a rhythm. See, hear and sing along with unusual rhythm instruments from around the world and take home ideas for making instruments from things in your own world.

Anansai, A Story Drama Workshop: 1 p.m., June 30. Presented by Youth Theatre Northwest. Ages 3 to 5. Explore the African trickster tale, “Anansai”, by jumping inside the book with theater exercises, games and crafts. Please register.

Kids Read @ 4 Book Club: 4 p.m., June 2. Meet on the first Thursday of the month to talk about great books. Call the library at 253-833-3554 for this month’s title. Copies of the book will be reserved and available for check out at the library.

TEENS

Outdoor Photo Shoot: 4 p.m., May 25. Ages 12-18. Learn tips and tricks to taking great pictures from a professional photographer with your digital or film camera. Bring your own cameras. Registration not required, limited to 10 participants.

Game On!: 3 p.m., May 18, 25. Teens in middle, junior high and high school. Play Guitar Hero, DDR and your favorite Wii and GameCube games.

Pizza and Books: 3:30 p.m., May 24. Join us to eat and talk about the books you’ve been reading. Be one of the first to sign-up and get a free copy of the featured book of the month book to take home, courtesy of the Friends of the Algona-Pacific Library.

Teen Zone!: 3 p.m., June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29. Play Guitar Hero, DDR and your favorite Wii and GameCube games and/or just hang out.

Teen Writers Group: 4:30 p.m., June 14. Working on a novel, short story, memoir, poetry or not even sure what you want to write? Join other teens to share your writing, gain ideas and practice your craft.

ADULTS

English classes for immigrants (ESOL): 6:30 p.m., Tuesdays, Wednesdays. In partnership with Green River Community College, the Algona-Pacific library offers regular, free English classes for adult learners.

One-on-one assistance for Spanish speakers: Spanish-speaking individuals can arrange for an hour of free assistance in Spanish to help them learn and use library (computer class, help with the catalog, databases, etc.).  Interested patrons may contact Jessica McClinton-Lopez at 253-91-3018 ext. 130 or jmlopez@kcls.org.

Computer Class: Registration required. Please sign up at the Information Desk or call 253-833-3554. •  Facebook Basics, 6:30 p.m., May 25.  Learn the basics of the social networking web site Facebook. Instructor will demonstrate how to use the site, why it’s useful, discuss privacy, and help set up an account. Prerequisites: Basic understanding of the Internet and must have an email account. • One-on-One Assistance: 6:30 p.m., June 15, 29. Do you need extra help on the computer? Have a special project you’re working on? Want to create an email account? A KCLS NetMaster volunteer instructor can give you one-on-one assistance.

Algona-Pacific Page Turners: 7:30 p.m., May 18. “The Coroner’s Lunch” by Colin Cotterill. Share your love of books and connect with fellow readers at our monthly book group. Copies of this title have been reserved for participants and are available for check out at the library. •  7:30 p.m., June 15. “A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court” by Mark Twain. Share your love of books and connect with fellow readers at our monthly book group. Copies of this title have been reserved for participants and are available for check out at the library. Join us. New members are always welcome.

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Muckleshoot Library, 39917 Auburn-Enumclaw Road SE., Auburn. 253-931-6779. Library events include:

CHILDREN & FAMILIES

Stories and Strings Story Times: 11 a.m., May 18, 25, June 1, 8, 22, 29. Come for a rockin’ good time of stories, songs and silliness.

Going Global Comedy Show: 11 a.m., June 15. Presented by Alex Zerbe. Ages 3 and older. This high-energy comedy show highlights different cultures and phenomena from around the world. Alex harpoons vegetables launched from a giant slingshot, performs music looping and demonstrates games from the other side of the planet.

TEENS

Read•Flip•Win: Read three books, write three thoughtful reviews and get a prize book … free.  The summer also will feature a video book review contest, Read•Flip•Win! Ask at the library for details.

ADULTS

COMPUTER CLASSES

Looking to sharpen your technology skills?:  If you’re interested in attending a class, please call 253-931-6779.  Do you need extra help on the computer? Have a special project you’re working on? Want to create an e-mail account? A KCLS NetMaster volunteer instructor can give you One-on-One Assistance.  •  Word Level I: 10:30 a.m., May 28. Learn basic word processing skills such as entering, selecting and deleting text.  The class prepares students for the Microsoft Word Level 2 class. • Email Basics: 6 p.m., June 9. Learn about popular email services. Create your own email account, write messages and learn about attachments.  • Word Level II: 10 a.m., June 20. Review basic word processing skills such as entering, selecting and deleting text. Learn how to select and format text, set margins, align paragraphs, and use cut and paste. Prerequisite: Microsoft Word Level 1.

Plateau Area Creative Writing Group: 10 a.m., May 27, June 24. Calling all writers. Writing workshop is designed for all who write – whether it’s poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction or memoir. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned writer or one who is just getting started, please come and share your stories.

Muckleshoot Poetry Café: 6:30 p.m., June 13. Bring your poetry, short stories or song lyrics to share. Food and drinks will be provided.

Network

Coming Together For Kids: 6-9:30 p.m., June 4, Green River Community College, Lindbloom Student Center, 31920 124th Ave. SE, Auburn. Communities in Schools of Auburn’s seventh annual dinner and auction fundraiser. Enjoy a nice dinner, music and the enjoyment of helping to raise money to support Auburn students. Admission: $50 per person. RSVP: Arlene Pierini, 253-288-7659 or cisauburn@comcast.net. For online registration, visit www.auburn.ciswa.org.

Auburn Morning Toastmasters Club: 6:30-7:30 a.m. Thursdays. Learn the fine art of communication in a supportive atmosphere. Toastmasters is an international organization helping people improve their communication and pubic speaking skills. New members welcome. Rainbow Café, 112 E. Main St., Auburn.

Auburn Area Chamber “Connecting for Success” Networking Breakfast: 8-9 a.m., the first Wednesday of every month. Sponsored by the Auburn Chamber of Commerce. Cost: $5, includes continental breakfast. Auburn Area Chamber Board Room, 108 S. Division, Suite B. 253-833-0700.

Auburn Area Chamber of Commerce Partnership Luncheon: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., the third Monday of every month, Emerald Downs, Emerald Room (fourth floor), 2300 Emerald Downs Drive.  Register online through the chamber.

Seniors

Auburn Senior Activity Center, 808 Ninth St. SE. 253-931-3016 or www.auburnwa.gov. Senior activities include:

• Senior Coffee Hours with the Mayor and Councilmembers: 10-11 a.m. the second Thursday of the month.

• Lunch: Monday-Friday, Salad bar begins at 11:30, Main meal is served at noon. Cost: $3 donation for ages 60 and over, $5.75 for those younger than 60.

• Movie Screenings: Wednesdays, 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. 50 cent suggested donation for refreshments.

• Monday Supper Club: 4:45-6 p.m. One Monday a month. Call 253-931-3016 for date and menu. Cost: $6 for all ages.

• Meals on Wheels: Senior services’ program offers home-delivered meals to home-bound seniors. For more information, call the center at 253-931-3016.

• Open Jam Session: 10-11:30 a.m., second and fourth Wednesday. All musicians are welcome.

Entertainment

“Bye Bye Birdie”: 7 p.m., May 13; 2 p.m., 7 p.m., May 14; 2 p.m., May 8, 15, Messiah Lutheran Church, 410 H St. NE, Auburn. Messiah Players production. The well-known musical is the story of Conrad Birdie, a rock star who is about to be sent into the Army. As a final farewell to all his young lady fans, Conrad travels out to Sweet Apple, Ohio, to give “One Last Kiss” to a lucky girl.  Tickets: $12 adults, $10 kids 14 and under; $10 for seniors 55 and older.  Tickets may be purchased at the door or prior to the performance.  Call 253-833-5280 for more information.

Comedy at the Ave: 7:30 p.m., May 13, Auburn Avenue Theater, 10 Auburn Ave. Mike E. Winfield will  headline the show. Winfield, who appeared on “Late Night with David Letterman” in November, was a finalist in the 2006 San Francisco Stand-Up Comedy Competition. Tickets are $17 regular, $15 students, seniors. Call 253-931-3043, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or online through Brown Paper Tickets at www.auburnwa.gov/arts.

Auburn Ave Kids presents Book-It All Over’s The Secret Garden: 2 p.m., May 14, Auburn Avenue Theater, 10 Auburn Ave. Celebrate spring, family, friendship and renewal with Book-It All Over’s adaptation of “The Secret Garden.” Tickets: $6. Call 253-931-3043, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., online through Brown Paper Tickets at www.auburnwa.gov/arts or at the door.

Chance McKinney n’ Cross Wire: 7:30 p.m., Saturday, May 14, Auburn Avenue Theater, 10 Auburn Ave. CMT Award winner Chance McKinney and band Cross Wire will play “industrial country,” a blend of country with ‘90s Rock, ‘60s Motown and heavy metal influences. Tickets: $17 regular/$15 students, seniors. Call 253-931-3043, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or online through Brown Paper Tickets at www.auburnwa.gov/arts.

Zola’s Cafe: Live music every Friday, 6:30-8:30 p.m., 402 E. Main St., Suite 120. Also looking for talented musicians, singers or comedians to perform. Please contact Sonia Kessler at the cafe at 253-333-9652.

Auditions

Rainier Youth Choirs: Local choir is scheduling auditions now, for singers to join this fall. Rehearsals for singers, fourth grade through college, are held weekly in Covington.  Call 253-347-0180 to schedule an audition.  For more information, visit  www.rainieryouthchoirs.org.

Music

Maple Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra summer music amp: Aug. 8-12, Maple Valley Presbyterian Church, 22659 Sweeny Road SE, Maple Valley. Camp runs 10 a.m.–2 p.m. each day with a 7 p.m. concert on Aug. 12. The camp – themed “The Good, The Band, The Ugly” – will feature movie music of favorite heroes, villains and monsters. Five-day camp fee: $25; optional lunch an additional $5 per day. The camp is open to students with at least one school year of playing experience. There will be a special program for students with less than two years of playing experience running simultaneously during the camp. Students with two years or greater playing experience will play movie music, participate in sectionals and ensembles with professional coaches, and more. Registration now. To sponsor the camp or a camper, please visit MVYSO’s website or contact Elisa Lewis at the number above or by email: elisa@mvyso.org. For more information, call 425-358-1640 or visit www.mvyso.org.

Theater

Heavier Than Air Summer Stock Theatre Camp: June 27-30, culminating in performances July 28-31, Green River Community College Performing Arts Building, 12401 SE 320th St., Auburn. Unique opportunity for children, ages 3-17, to participate in a “hands-on” theater experience through rehearsals and performances. Under the direction of GRCC’s professional children’s theatre staff, students learn about auditioning, vocal projection, movement, improvisation, acting, dancing and singing. Parent information packets will be mailed out prior to camp. For primary, intermediate, teen and music revue camps, a parent meeting will be held 6:30-7:30 p.m. June 22 in the PA building. For creative dramatic and dramatic movement parents, a parent meeting will be held at noon June 30, also in the PA building. Register online: www.heavierthanair.com.

Dance

Children’s Dance Theater:  New location at 122 W. Main St. Visit www.auburnchildrensdancetheater.com or call 253-887-8937 for program information.

Auburn Dance Academy:  Visit www.auburndanceccademy.com or call 253-833-1891 for program information.  The academy is located at 1811 Howard Road, Suite 100.

Inaugural Colors of the Rainbow Competition: 4-6 p.m., May 21, Pacific Ballroom Dance, 1604 15th St. SW, Suite 109. Students from Auburn and the surrounding area to compete. Information: 253-939-6524, www.pacificballroom.org.

Pacific Ballroom Dance “Ignite”: 7:30 p.m., June 3; 2:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m., June 4, Auburn Performing Arts Center, 700 E. Main St. Latin and ballroom dancing performance. Tickets: $15 for evening shows, $12 for matinee; children 3 and under free. For more information, visit www.pacificballroom.org.

Museums

White River Valley Museum:  918 H St. SE, Auburn. Exhibit: “Yellow Polka Dot Bikinis and Tummy Crunches: A Century of Female Bodies and Swimsuits” – opens May 4 and runs through July 31. Related events (offered in conjunction with “Yellow Polka Dot Bikinis.”) Unless otherwise noted, events are included with museum admission. • Body Image and the Path to Perfection, June 11, 1-3 p.m. Join women’s historian Dr. Michelle Marshman for a revealing discussion and slideshow about diet, exercise and the ever-changing silhouette of the perfect female body. • Family Day: Beach Essentials, June 18, noon-4 p.m. Join the museum for an exciting exploration of summer-time fun and enjoy hands-on activities for the whole family. Museum hours: Noon-4 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays. Admission: $2 adults, $1 seniors and children. Admission is free on Wednesdays and the fourth Sunday of the month. Call 253-288-7433 or visit www.wrvmuseum.org for event information.

Galleries

Auburn City Hall:  25 W. Main St.  Admission is free. Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays. 253-931-3043 or www.auburnwa.gov.

Cheryl Sallee Gallery: Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays. Admission: Free. Auburn Senior Activity Center, 808 Ninth St. SE. 253-931-5043 or www.auburnwa.gov/arts.

Pacific City Poetry Gallery: Through May 31. Gathering of poetry presented by the Striped Water Poets of Auburn. Hours: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mondays-Fridays. Admission: Free. Pacific City Hall, 100 Third Ave. SE