Auburn calendar of events | Jan. 6

Events

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

Town Hall Meeting: 10 a.m., Jan. 9, Auburn Public Library, 1102 Auburn Way S. Join State Sen. Pam Roach, R-rural Auburn, to discuss priority issues for the 2010 legislative session. 253-735-4210, 360-786-7660, e-mail: roach.pam@leg.wa.gov.

Fun Night at the YMCA: 6:30-8:30 p.m., Jan. 16, Auburn Valley YMCA, 1620 Perimeter Road SW. Activities include swimming, basketball games, family Zumba, dodge ball, family cardio blast, teen cooking, activities and games for toddlers.

David Oliver Relin: 7:30 p.m., Jan. 21, Green River Community College Lindbloom Student Center, main dining room. 12401 SE 320th St., Auburn. Meet David Oliver Relin, the journalist and award-winning author of “Three Cups of Tea” on his “One Man’s Mission to Promote Peace … One School at a Time” tour. Presented by GRCC Artist and Speakers Series 2010. Tickets are $10, free for GRCC students. Call 253-833-9111, ext. 2400, for tickets or more information.

15th annual Uniquely Auburn celebration: 2 p.m., Jan. 24, Auburn Performing Arts Center, 700 E. Main St. A free community-sponsored celebration of cultural diversity recognizing people, places, and events that make Auburn unique. Uniquely Auburn 2010, “We Are More Than We Imagine” will feature performances by Taiko Drummers, a Marshallese Stick Dancing group, the Buena Vista Elementary Multicultural Choir, a Puhrepecha Danza group, Striped Water Poets, Cascade Middle School Hip Hop dance group, Auburn Follies, Leatha Turchiano, and more. The event will include food, games, exhibits and other activities. Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, Soroptimist International of Auburn, Segale Properties, City of Auburn Arts Commission, Auburn School District, and Trillium sponsor the event. For more information, please call Janice Nelson at 206-349-3061, or visit www.uniquelyauburn.org.

23rd annual Washington Sportsmen’s Show: Jan. 27-31. Show hours: noon to 8 p.m. Wednesday-Friday (Jan. 27-29), 10 a.m.- 8 p.m., Saturday (Jan. 30), 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday (Jan. 31), Western Washington Fairgrounds, 110 9th Ave. SW, Puyallup. Exhibits, seminars, kids’ activities, a true “buyers show,” with hundreds of exhibitors and dealers offering show discounts on fishing and hunting gear, outdoor clothing, camping equipment, sport fishing boats, RVs and accessories. Admission: adults $10 ($8 exchange with coupon); juniors (6-16) 5; children 5-under free. For weekday discount coupons, visit www.otshows.com. For more information, 503-246-8291.

27th annual Tacoma Home & Garden Show: Jan. 27-31. Show hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday (Jan. 27 and 28), 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday and Saturday (Jan. 29-30), 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday (Jan. 31), Tacoma Dome, 2727 E. D St. More than 1,000 exhibits, display gardens and a full schedule of “how-to” seminars. Admission: $10 adults; $8 seniors (weekdays only, 62-older); free (with ID) for American Horticulture Society Members; free to children 16 and under. Two-day passes: $16 adults, $12 seniors. Weekday discount coupons online. For more information, call 253.756.2121 or visit www.otshows.com.

Northwest Flower & Garden Show: Feb 3-7. Show hours: 9 a.m.-8 p.m. , Wednesday-Saturday (Feb. 3-6); 9 a.m.- to 6 p.m. Sunday (Feb. 7), Washington State Convention and Trade Center, 7th and Pike, Seattle. Lineup includes 25 display gardens, internationally-known speakers, more than 350 exhibitors and activities. Theme: “Beauty and Functionality.” Advance “early bird” tickets available at a discounted price of $16 for adults (normally $20 at the door). Visit www.gardenshow.com for advance ticket sale locations or to purchase tickets online. Admission: $20 adults; $15 group (per ticket; minimum purchase of 20 tickets): $10 half-Day (purchased online or at the door after 3 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday); $5 youth (ages 13-17); free children (ages 12 and under).

Valley Christian School open house: 7 p.m., Feb. 4, Valley Christian School, 1312 2nd St. SE, one block south of Main Street, Auburn. Open house for current and prospective students ages preschool-eighth grade. Tour the school, meet the teachers, preview the curriculum, enjoy refreshments. 253-833-3541.

Miss Auburn Scholarship Pageant: 7 p.m., Feb. 4-5, Auburn Performing Arts Center, 700 E. Main St. (Talent competition Thursday evening only). Tickets: Main floor (reserved seating) Thursday/Friday combination package $35; individual tickets may be purchased at the door, $20, first-come, first-serve. Main floor assigned seating will be issued on a first-come, first-serve basis (front to back); balcony (festival seating) $15; Thursday/Friday combination package $20. To order, visit www. www.missauburn.org.

4th annual Daddy Daughter Date Night : 6:30-9 p.m., Feb. 19-20, Auburn Senior Activity Center, located at 808 Ninth St. SE. Presented by the Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation Department. Girls age 4-10 years will enjoy an evening with their daddy or special date. Dancing, dinner and dessert are included in the $45 per couple registration fee ($10 each additional girl; non-resident fees apply). Visit the Parks, Arts & Recreation Office at 910 Ninth Street SE to register or call 253-931-3043.

Holidays

Holiday light strand recycling: Until Jan. 22. Presented by Ilalko Elementary School PTA Green Team. Collecting broken, mangled, snarled and unusable light strands. Extension cords are fine, too. Collection boxes established near the school’s front office center, 301 Oravetz Place SE; TOP Food & Drug (1406 Lake Tapps Parkway E.); Lakeland Family Chiropractic (4220 A St. SE, Suite 103); Children’s Dance Theater (14 B St. NE); Auburn Family YMCA (1620 Perimeter Road SW); and Bank of America (Southcenter branch, Tukwila). Proceeds will benefit the Ilalko Library Fund.

Classes

Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation: City of Auburn offers a variety of classes and programs. Options include preschool, youth, teen, and adult leisure programs; youth, teen, and adult athletics; fitness and wellness programs; programs designed to provide social and recreational opportunities to senior citizens and those with special needs, and other special events suitable for the entire family and community at large. New this session are a variety of art and drawing classes, stroller strides, and open gym gymnastics for kids. Additionally, the Parks, Arts & Rec has numerous facilities available for rent. Residents can register now via Auburn@Play on-line at www.auburnwa.gov , in person at the Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation Administration building at 910 Ninth Street SE or by calling 253-931-3043. Reservations for all facilities must be made in person at the Parks, Arts & Recreation Administration Office, 910 Ninth St SE.

Scrapbooking: 3:30-4:15 p.m., Jan. 13, 20, 27, Auburn Gateway School, 410 H St. NE, Auburn. Free classes offered for all Auburn school-aged children and a parent. Classes taught by an expert from Close To My Heart Scrapbooking. Materials provided. For more information, call 253-735-2242 or e-mail auburngatewayschool@gmail.com.

Pilates: 3:30-4:15 p.m., Jan. 15, 22, 29, Auburn Gateway School, 410 H St. NE, Auburn. Free after-school classes offered to elementary school-aged children (and a parent) living in the Auburn community. Classes taught by an expert from Corestar Pilates in Auburn. For more information, call 253-735-2242 or e-mail auburngatewayschool@gmail.com.

Parent Child Cooking Class: 5:30-6:30 p.m., Jan. 14, Auburn Valley YMCA kitchen, 1620 Perimeter Road SW. Register now. 253-833-2770.

Health

Blood drives for Cascade Regional Blood Center: 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Jan. 13, Costco Wholesale No. 828, Auburn; 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Jan. 15, Scoreboard Pub, 1200 S. 324th, Federal Way; 9-11 a.m., Jan. 21, Parametrix, 1002 15th St. SW, Auburn. For more information, call 1-877-242-5663 or visit www.crbs.net.

Puget Sound Blood Center blood drives: 4-7 p.m., Jan. 11, LDS Church gym, 625 M St. NE, Auburn; 11 a.m.-1 p.m., 2-5 p.m., Jan. 18, IBS Inc., 740 Clay St. NW, Auburn; noon-2 p.m., 2:45-6 p.m., Jan. 19, Auburn Adventist Academy, Fireside Room, 5000 Auburn Way S., Auburn; 8-10 a.m., 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Jan. 20, West Auburn High School gym, 401 W. Main St.; 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Jan. 21, Auburn Mountainview High School auxiliary gym, 28900 124th Ave. SE; 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Jan. 27, Glacier Room, Lindbloom Center, Green River Community College, 12401 SE 320th St., Auburn; 11 a.m.-1 p.m., 2-5 p.m., Jan. 29, Auburn Regional Medical Center, at 2nd Street entrance; 10 a.m.-noon, 1-4 p.m., Jan. 30, SuperMall, bus by the Burlington Coat Factory, 1101 Supermall Way, Auburn. For more information, call 253-945-8667 or please visit www.psbc.org.

Auburn Valley YMCA: Jan. 4-17, 1620 Perimeter Road SW. Center invites the community to be its guest for free during a two-week membership drive. Come participate in classes, consult with a trainer or bring the family in for a swim. The YMCA offers more than 100 classes for all age levels and abilities. To learn more, call 253-833-2770 or visit auburnvalleyymca.org.

Diabetes Prevention: 9:30-10:30 a.m., Jan. 19, Auburn Valley YMCA, 1620 Perimeter Road SW. Register now. 253-833-2770.

Faith

Auburn Church: 5 p.m., Jan. 10, 421 E. Main St. Church is hosting an informal question-and-answer session. Veteran evangelists Mike Brenneman and Rod MacArthur will be on the panel to give Bible insights to Bible questions. The public is invited. No collections will be taken. For information, call MacArthur at 206-949-0325 or Brenneman at 253-520-0101.

Libraries

Auburn Library, 1102 Auburn Way S., Auburn. 253-931-3018. Library events include:

CHILDREN & FAMILIES

Toddler ABC Story Times: 10:15 a.m., Jan. 11, 25. Ages 2 to 3 with adult. Explore the alphabet through stories, songs, finger plays and action rhymes.

Tuesday Baby Tales and Bounces Story Times: 10:05 a.m., (repeated at 11 a.m.) Jan. 12, 19, 26. Newborn to 24 months with adult. Join us for bounces, stories and short playtime afterward.

Preschool ABC Story Times: 11 a.m., Jan. 11, 25. Explore the alphabet through stories, songs, finger plays and action rhymes.

Wacky Wednesday Family Story Times: 10:15 a.m., Jan. 27. Ages 3 to 6, siblings welcome. Kids will be hopping to stories, finger plays and funny flannel board activities.

Sleepy Story Times: 7 p.m., Jan. 14, 21, 28. All ages welcome, ages 5 and younger with adult. Wear your pajamas and bring your teddy bear to this 30-minute bedtime story time.

Early Literacy Parties in Spanish: 10:30 a.m., Jan. 14, 21, 28, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25, March 4. Eight series of free workshops for Spanish-speaking families with children ages newborn to 5. Families learn about early literacy and how to prepare their children for kindergarten. Free books in Spanish.

Book Club Party for Kids: 4 p.m., Jan. 15. Grades 3-8. Join us for a lively book discussion. Snacks will be served.

TEENS

Study Zone: 5 p.m., Jan. 11, 25; 6 p.m., Jan. 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27; 4 p.m., Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28. Grades K-12. Drop-in during scheduled Study Zone hours for free homework help from volunteer tutors. .

Study Zone Online Now Available: 3-8 p.m., Mondays-Thursdays; 3:30-6 p.m., Sundays. Grades K-12. Join an online Study Zone classroom to get help in math, science, English and social studies from a volunteer tutor.  For more information, www.kcls.org/studyzone. At this time Study Zone Online is available only through a library computer.

Game On!: 3:30 p.m., Jan. 13, 20, 27. Play your favorite games for the Wii, Xbox 360, GameCube and PS2.

Teen Book Club: 4:30 p.m., Jan. 19. “The Amulet of Samarkand 15” by Jonathan Stroud. The first 10 people who sign up to attend will receive a free copy courtesy of the Friends of the Auburn Library. Check out http://blogs.kcls.org/auburn/teens for more information.

ADULTS

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL): 6 p.m., Mondays and Wednesdays. (No class Jan. 18). Presented by Green River Community College. A formal class to learn English grammar, reading, writing and conversation skills.

Friends of the Auburn Library Meeting: 7 p.m., Jan. 26. The Friends support the library and programs. Join us.

Genealogy Assistance: 1 p.m., Jan. 9, 13, 27; 7 p.m., Jan. 11. Volunteers from South King County Genealogical Society will be available to answer your questions.

Computer Classes: Sign up at the information desk or call 253-931-3018. • Microsoft Word Level 3: 10 a.m., Jan. 9; • Microsoft Excel Level 1: 7 p.m., Jan. 12; • Facebook Basics: 10 a.m., Jan. 13; • Internet Nivel 2 (Internet Level 2): 7 p.m., Jan. 14; • Internet Level 3: 10 a.m., Jan. 21; • Excel Level 2: 10 a.m., Jan, 23; • Microsoft PowerPoint: 7 p.m., Jan. 26; Blog Basics: 10 a.m., Jan. 30; • Microsoft Excel Level 3: 12:30 p.m., Jan. 30.

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.

Resume Help: 10 a.m., Jan. 13, 20. Receive one-on-one assistance with your resume. Sign-up at the Information Desk or call 253.931.3018.

Talk Time: 6:30 p.m., Jan, 14, 21, 28. Improve your speaking and listening skills in this free English conversation group.

Citizenship Class: 3 p.m., Jan. 16, 23, 30. Get help with the citizenship interview process.

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

CHILD

Toddler Story Times: 10:15 a.m., Jan. 12, 19, 26. Ages 2 to 3 with adult. Join us for stories, rhymes, music and fun.

Preschool Story Times: 11 a.m., Jan. 12, 19, 26. Ages 3 to 5 with adult. Enjoy stories, activities and music while children develop pre-reading skills.

Baby Story Time: 10:15 a.m., Jan. 13, 20, 27. 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.

TEEN

Study Zone: 3:30 p.m., Jan. 13, 20, 27. Grades K-12. Drop in during scheduled Study Zone hours for homework help from volunteer tutors.

Game On!: 3 p.m., Jan. 13. Play Guitar Hero, DDR and your favorite Wii and GameCube games.

Alpac Teen Anime Club: 3 p.m., Jan. 20. Watch anime videos and practice your manga drawing. Check out the library’s collection of manga material.

Teen Movie Afternoon: 3 p.m, Jan. 27. Join us to watch a movie after school.

ADULT

Algona-Pacific Page Turners: 7:30 p.m., Jan. 20. “The Jump-Off Creek” by Molly Gloss: 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.

Be a Friend!: 6:30 p.m., Jan. 20. Share your love of the library and make new friends as you lend your talents to expand opportunities for kids, teens, adults and families in our community.

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

Computer Classes: Looking to sharpen your technology skills?  If you’re interested in attending a class, please call 253-931-6779.  • E-mail Basics, 6 p.m., Jan. 14. Learn about popular email services. Create your own e-mail account, write messages, and learn about attachments. • Internet Level II, 10 a.m., Jan. 26. Review concepts and techniques covered in Internet Level 1. Learn to browse the Web, save Web page information and learn about Internet security.

Story Times

Stories and Strings: 11 a.m, Jan. 13, 20, 27. Please join us for stories, sing-alongs and other fun activities.

Book Discussion Group

Reading in the Woods Book Group: 7 p.m., Jan. 11. Join us for a lively thoughtful discussion. The month’s book is “The Tortilla Curtain,” by T. Coraghessan Boyle. Light refreshments will be served. Please come to the Service Desk at the library to obtain a copy of the book.

Network

Fierce Job-Hunting Workshops: 3:30-5 p.m., every Thursday, White River Museum, 918 H Street SE, Auburn. Get free help finding a job, provided by JobBait.com and sponsored by the City of Auburn. Get more detail at http://jobbait.com/a/auburn-workshops.htm.

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.

Marketplace Ministries Networking Luncheon: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. the second Thursday of the month. Presented by River of Life Fellowship Church. Cost: $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Copper Falls Restaurant at the Auburn Golf Course, 29630 Green River Road SE, Auburn. www.mpmlive.org.

South Sound Chambers of Commerce Legislative Coalition Breakfast: 7:30-9 a.m., Jan. 8, Emerald Downs, fourth floor, Emerald Room. A preview to the 2010 legislative session. Sen. Majority Leader Lisa Brown is keynote speaker. Presented by Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties. Sponsored by the Seattle King County Realtors, The Boeing Company. Multi-Service Center is the corporate sponsor. Registration begins at 7 a.m. 253-833-0700.

Financial Peace University: A 13-week program, taught by Dave Ramsey, designed to help families change their financial future. Program teaches families and individuals how to handle money through common-sense principles and small group accountability. FPU classes offered: • 8:30 a.m., 5:30 p.m., Jan. 10, Grace Community Church, 1320 Auburn Way S. Contact David Baer at 253-939-7453 or baer1104@gmail.com or Kevin Hasslinger at 253-939-4301 or k.hasslinger@comcast.net for more information or to register. • 6:30 p.m., Jan. 12, Faith and Victory Church, 1601 W. Valley Highway, Auburn. Contact Jenn and Kasey Maiorca at (208)412-8619 or fpuauburn@clearwire.net for more information or to register.

Auburn Area Chamber of Commerce Partnership Luncheon: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Jan. 11, Emerald Downs, fourth floor, Emerald Room. Featured speaker: Mayor Pete Lewis delivers his “annual State of the City Address.” Sponsored by the City of Auburn Solid Waste & Recycling. Please register. 253-833-0700, AuburnCC@AuburnArea WA.org.

Tax workshop: 9 a.m.-1 p. m., Jan. 11, the Seattle office of the Washington State Department of Revenue, 2401 4th Ave., Suite 450, in Seattle. Free workshop for new and small business owners. Participants will learn about Washington excise taxes, reporting classifications, deductions, tax incentives, sales tax collection and record-keeping requirements. All receive a workbook and helpful reference guide to Department of Revenue rules and regulations. To register, visit the Department of Revenue Web site at www.dor.wa.gov or call (206) 956-3002. Space is limited.

Auburn Area Chamber of Commerce After Hours/Mixer: 5-7 p.m., Jan. 21, Krondlund Chiropractic, 3820 S. 320th St.

Groups

Auburn American Legion Post 78: 7:30 p.m. the first and third Wednesdays of the month. Veterans Memorial Building, 405 E St. N.E. 253-939-5789 or auburnpost78@yahoo.com.

Auburn VFW Post 1741: 7:30 p.m., fourth Tuesday of the month, 1525 A St NE, Suite 107. For information, call 253-333-2917.

Auburn Eagles Aerie/Auxiliary No. 2298: Aerie group, 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays; auxiliary, 7:30 p.m. the second and fourth Mondays of the month. 702 M St. S.E., Auburn. 253-833-2298 or sec2298@integra.net.

Auburn Elks Lodge No. 1808: 7:30 p.m. the first and third Thursdays of the month. 2402 Auburn Way N., Auburn. 253-833-1808 or bpoe1808@qwest.net.

Auburn Morning Toastmasters Club No. 329: 6:30-7:30 a.m. Thursdays. Learn the fine art of communication in a supportive atmosphere. New members welcome. Rainbow Café, 112 E. Main St., Auburn. 253-288-0627.

Auburn Noon Lions Club: Noon Tuesdays. Auburn Parks, Arts and Recreation building, 919 Ninth St. S.E. 253-735-5340, auburn12lions@aol.com or www.auburnlions.com.

Auburn Optimist Club: Noon every other Wednesday. Visitors welcome. Lunch: Less than $10. Auburn Elks, 2402 Auburn Way N. 253-333-8840.

Auburn Rotary Club: Noon Wednesdays. Cost: $15, includes lunch. Grace Community Church, 1320 Auburn Way S., Auburn. 253-929-4656.

Auburn Valley Kiwanis: 7 a.m. Wednesdays. Auburn Parks, Arts and Recreation building, 910 Ninth St. S.E. 253-833-7086 or www.kiwanisclubofthevalley.org.

Board Game Group: 7-10 p.m. every other Friday. Group plays family-friendly games including: “Settlers of Catan,” “Ticket to Ride,” “Bang!,” “Wits and Wagers,” and more. All are welcome. Cost: Free. Room 201 at Northwest Family Church, 3535 Auburn Way S., Auburn. 253 833-8252 for details.

Boy Scout Troop 401: 7-8:30 p.m.. Tuesdays. Boy Scouts is an outdoor based program for boys age 11-17. Troop also has a Venture Crew associated with it for boys and girls ninth grade through age 20. Call for details. Auburn First United Methodist Church, 100 N St. S.E. 253-939-7051.

Happy Hands Craft Club: 12:30-2 p.m.. the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month. Group knits and crochets lap blankets for veterans and baby hats for PICC. Auburn Valley YMCA, 1620 Perimeter Road S.W., Auburn. 253-833-2770.

Kiwanis Club of Auburn: Noon Thursdays. Red Lotus Restaurant, 714 Auburn Way N., Auburn. www.kiwanisclubofauburn.com.

Moms and Kids Playgroup: 10 a.m.-noon Tuesdays. Moms can hang out while the children play together. Cost: Free. Lifegate Auburn Foursquare Church, 307 E. Main St., Auburn. 253-735-3153.

Newcomers and New Friends of Greater Seattle: The second Wednesday of the month. Lunch meetings held at various locations throughout the Puget Sound. Call for details. 425-778-8608 or www.seattlenewcomers.com.

Optimist Club of Auburn: Noon the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month. Auburn Elks Club, 2402 Auburn Way N. 253-333-8840.

Quilting Guild—Crazy Quilters of Federal Way: 6-9 p.m. the second and fourth Thursdays of the month. Visitors welcome. Evergreen Lodge Retirement Home, 31002 14th Ave. S., Federal Way. 253-833-8302.

Rainier Audubon Society: 7 p.m. the third Monday of the month. Federal Way United Methodist Church, 29645 51st Ave. S., Auburn. 253-854-3207.

Rio Verde Golden K Senior Kiwanis Club: 8:30 a.m. Tuesdays. 1402 22nd St. N.E., Auburn. 253-941-8108.

Sea-Tac Volkssports Club: 7-8 p.m. fourth Tuesday of the month. Serving area residents. Meetings held at Diamond Jim’s restaurant, 1616 S 325th, Federal Way. Club offers non-competitive events, promoting fun, fitness, fellowship and family. Information: Fran Carson 425-774-0312, or Preston Johnson 253-839-1892.

Soroptimist International of Auburn: Noon Wednesdays. New members and guests welcome. Auburn Parks and Recreation Administration Building, 900 Ninth St. S.E., Auburn. www.soroptimistnwr.com.

South King County Genealogical Society: 10 a.m. the third Saturday of the month. First Baptist Church of Kent, 11420 S.E. 248th St. 206-948-4286 or www.skcgs.org.

Spina Bifida Association of Washington State, South King/North Pierce Counties Cluster: 7-8:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month. Organization assists families with spina bifida, educates the public, and sponsors fundraisers. All are welcome. Zion Lutheran Church, 1350 17th St. S.E., Auburn. 253-887-0888 or crazy5720003@yahoo.com.

Striped Water Poets: 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays. Round-table critique circle welcomes new poets and friends. Second floor at Auburn City Hall, 25 W. Main St. 253-735-1751 or mcbreenpost@aol.com.

Teen MOPS: 6-8 p.m. Tuesdays. Free group for pregnant teenagers and teenage mothers. Childcare available. River of Life Fellowship, 10615 S.E. 216th St., Kent. 253-218-7420.

TV Toastmasters: Noon the second Saturday of the month. Learn how to perform both in front and in back of television cameras. Puget Sound Access, 22412 72nd Ave. S., Building C, Kent. 253-854-1312 or www.tvtoastmasters.org.

Valley Newcomers: 11:30 a.m. the first Tuesday of the month. Group meets at area restaurants. Call for details, locations. 253-854-1831.

White River Valley Historical Society: 1:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month. Muckleshoot Room in the White River Valley Museum, 918 H St. S.E., Auburn. 253-288-7433.

Wind Spirit Flute Circle: 7 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month. Come explore and learn the Native American Flute. All ages and abilities welcome. Beginner lessons at 6:30 p.m. Federal Way Senior Center, 4016 S. 352nd St., Auburn. 253-568-6689 or www.waflutecircle.com.

Public Meetings

Auburn Airport Advisory Committee: 8 a.m. the third Tuesday of the month. Northwest Aviation College, 506 23rd St. S.E.

Auburn City Council: 7:30 p.m. the first and third Mondays of the month. City Council Chambers, 25 W. Main St.

Auburn Domestic Violence Task Force: Noon-2 p.m. the third Thursday of the month. Auburn Library, 1102 Auburn Way S.

Auburn Finance Committee: 6:30 p.m. the first and third Mondays of the month. Council Conference Room, 25 W. Main St.

Auburn Municipal Services: 5 p.m. the first and third Mondays of the month. Conference room No. 3, 25 W. Main St.

Auburn Tourism Board: 2 p.m. the third Thursday of the month. Council Conference Room, 25 W. Main St.

Senior Center Advisory Board: 10 a.m. the second Tuesday of the month. Auburn Senior Activity Center, 808 Ninth St. S.E.

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: Noon Mondays-Fridays. Registration for lunch begins at 11 a.m. Choose from soup and sandwich or the main meal menu. Cost: $3 donation for ages 60 and older; $5.75 for those younger than 60.

• Movie screenings: 12:45 p.m. , Wednesdays. Refreshments provided. Cost: Free.

• Monday Supper Club: 5-6 p.m. the third Monday of the month. Cost: $5; registration required.

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

• Enhance Wellness Program: Registered nurse and social worker are on-site to help individuals work towards their own health and wellness goals. Call for details.

Veterans

Military Family Support Meetings: Tuesday evenings. Open to spouses and adult family members of soldiers deployed, soon to leave or recently returned. Topics include deployment concerns, parenting needs, self-care and relationship challenges. Group is free of charge and confidential. Registration requested. 33301 First Way S., Federal Way. 253-661-6634, ext. 145.

Support

Auburn Domestic Violence Task Force: 12:15-1:30 p.m., Meets third Thursday of each month at the Auburn Library, 1201 Auburn Way S.

Al-Anon Family Group Meetings: 7:30 p.m. Sundays at Holy Family Catholic Church, 505 17th St. S.E., Auburn; 10:30 a.m. Mondays and Fridays, and 8 p.m. Wednesdays at First United Methodist Church, 100 N St. S.E., Auburn; 10 a.m. Saturdays in the back room of the Rainbow Cafe, 112 E. Main St., Auburn. 206-625-0000 or www.seattle-al-anon.org.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness: 6:30-8 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. The Alliance Center, 515 W. Harrison St., Kent. 253-854-6264.

Auburn Foster Parent Support Group: 6:30-8:30 p.m. the first Friday of the month. Auburn Bible Chapel, 2606 R St., Auburn. 253-347-2580.

Auburn Parkinson’s Disease Support Group: 10 a.m. the first Friday of the month. Wesley Homes Lea Hill, 32049 109th Place S.E., Auburn. 253-876-6014.

Breast cancer patient support: Trained survivors offer free emotional support to the newly-diagnosed, enhancing emotional recovery while going through treatments. Will attend consultations, chemotherapy and radiation appointments and have volunteers in your community. 206-417-3484, www.angelcarefoundation.org or angelcare@angelcarefoundation.org.

Celebrate Recovery: 6-9 p.m. Thursdays. Event includes: meal, 6-7 p.m.; large group worship, 7-8 p.m.; small open group, 8-9 p.m. Twelve-step recovery program to help free people from life’s hurts, hang-ups and habits. Cost: $3 for meal. Grace Community Church 1320 Auburn Way S., Auburn. 253-833-5660 or celebraterecovery@gccauburn.net.

Consumer Support Group: 6:30-8 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month. The Alliance Center, 515 W. Harrison St., Kent. 253-854-6264.

Domestic Violence: 1-3 p.m. Tuesdays; 1-3 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Thursdays. YWCA of South King County hosts support groups for women who have experienced domestic violence. Meets at a confidential location. 206-799-6209.

Family Law CASA of King County: Children’s needs can get lost in the dispute between separating parents. Do you want to advocate for such a child? Volunteer for Family Law CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) of King County. 206-748-9700 or www.familylawcasa.com.

Fostering Together Foster/Adoptive Parent Support Group: Meets on the first Friday of every month from 6-8 p.m., Auburn Valley YMCA, 1620 Perimeter Road SW. 253-859-9385

Gamblers Anonymous: For meeting times and locations, call toll-free national hotline: 888-424-3577.

Hearing Loss Association of America, South King County Chapter: 6:45 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month. Auburn Senior Center, 808 Ninth St. S.E., Auburn. garoux@verizon.net.

Medical coverage assistance: Public Health Seattle & King County provides free assistance applying for benefits, including free or low-cost medical coverage for qualifying children. Call for details. English: 206-296-3944; Spanish: 206-296-3948 or 206-296-3943; Vietnamese: 206-296-3949.

SHIBA Helpline: Statewide Heath Insurance Benefits Advisors is a network of trained volunteers that assists and advocates for consumer rights and options regarding health insurance, health care access and prescription access. Group is also accepting volunteers. 800-562-6900 or www.insurance.wa.gov.

South King County PFLAG: 7 p.m. the fourth Monday of the month. Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays meetings are confidential. Group is not associated with any religious organizations. Unitarian-Universalist Church, 25701 14th Place S., Des Moines. 206-325-7724.

South King County CHADD chapter: 7-9 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month. Discussion of issues that concern parents of children with attention-deficit disorder. New Horizon School, 1111 S. Carr Road, Renton. 253-631-8603.

Tobacco Cessation Group: 5:15-6:15 p.m. Wednesdays. Cost: Free to Auburn Valley YMCA members. Auburn Valley YMCA, 1620 Perimeter Road S.W., Auburn. 253-833-2770, ext. 7302, or kkoblenz@seattleymca.org.

WICS (Widowed Information and Consultation Services) Grief Support Group: 7 p.m. Tuesdays. Grief support group for adult widows and widowers offering support, information and social activities. St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 25810 156th Ave. S.E., Covington. 253-630-0324.

Women’s Cancer Support Group: 7-8:30 p.m. the last Tuesday of the month. Meetings include open discussion with occasional special guests speaking on topics relating to cancer survivors. Conference Room 1 at MultiCare Clinic, 17700 S.E. 272nd St., Covington. 253-372-7293.

Volunteers

Auburn Gateway School: Coordinating free after-school activites to their students and to children in the community. Volunteers needed to donate their time in a variety of recreational activities such as piano lessons, voice lessons, guitar lessons, art classes, etc. Do you think you have a talent that you could offer to kids? Please contact us. All volunteers are free to distribute promotional and print materials to expose your business. The school is requesting a minimum commitment of three 45-minutes classes. For more info, contact auburngatewayschool@gmail.com.

Angel Care Breast Cancer Foundation: Breast cancer survivors needed to provide support for others battling cancer. Must be one year past the end of treatments and have good interpersonal skills. 206-417-3484, 877-417-3484 (toll-free), www.angelcarefoundation.org or angelcare@angelcarefoundation.org.

Auburn Regional Medical Center Gift Shop: The medical center’s auxiliary is seeking a volunteer gift shop manager to welcome customers, manage store inventory and arrange volunteer staff scheduling. Volunteer must be 18 or older. Gift shop hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mondays-Fridays. Call for application or more details. Auburn Regional Medical Center, 1413 S. 348th St., Federal Way. 253-833-7711, ext. 1259.

Auburn Meals on Wheels: Auburn Senior Center seeks volunteer packers and drivers for Meals on Wheels, Thursdays and Fridays, about four hours per week. Mileage for drivers reimbursed. Call for details. 253-931-3016 or adamp@seniorservices.org.

Adopt-a-Park: Auburn’s Adopt-a-Park program is seeking individuals and groups to help keep the city’s parks and streetscapes healthy and vibrant. 253-931-3043.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound: Seeking adult mentors to spend time with children. Agency offers flexible program to fit volunteers’ schedules and interests, and plans activities such as snow tubing on Snoqualmie Pass, hiking adventures in the Cascades, and tickets to Mariners games. Call or see Web site for details. 877-700-2447 or www.bbbsps.org.

Childhaven: Volunteers needed to work with abused, neglected and alcohol- or drug-impacted children ages 1 month to 5 years in the therapeutic child-care classrooms. Volunteers must be 18 or older, commit to a two-hour time block per week, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, commit to volunteering for six months, have proof of a negative tuberculosis test and pass a criminal background check. Patrick L. Gogerty Branch, 1345 22nd Ave. N.E., Auburn. 206-957-4839 or julim@childhaven.org.

Friend to Friend: Volunteers needed to visit adults in nursing homes, assisted living and retirement homes throughout King and Snohomish counties. Volunteers commit to visit about twice a month for one year. 206-246-5150.

Green River Community College: College seeks volunteers in a variety of areas: ceramics, basic computing, court reporting and more. Professional experience is not required. 253-288-3346 or volunteer@greenriver.edu.

Hospice Volunteer Training: Highline Hospice, 12844 Military Road S., Tukwila, is recruiting caring and compassionate people interested in supporting terminally ill patients and their families. If you have a heart for being with others through difficult times, volunteering with Hospice may be right for you. Volunteers provide patient support and companionship, caregiver respite, bereavement support, or office help. Comprehensive training provided. Contact Michele Fawcett-Long, Volunteer Coordinator, at 206-439-9095 or mfawcett-long@highlinemedical.org.

Multiple Sclerosis Association of King County: MSA of King County is looking for people to assist those with MS in maintaining their independence and quality of life. People are needed to assist with water-therapy programs, visit isolated individuals, provide transportation, go shopping, do yard work or other household chores, teach computer skills and more. Call for details, locations. 206-633-2606 or www.msakc.org.

Puget Sound Blood Center: Assist with blood drives and bone marrow registry drives. Must be available in the day or early evening twice a month and have reliable transportation. 425-462-4381, meganp@psbc.org or www.psbc.org/volunteers.

Red Cross Disaster Action Team: American Red Cross is seeking King County volunteers to respond to local disasters. Volunteers must be on-call one week out of six, and will receive free training. 206-726-3566 or www.seattleredcross.org.

Special Transportation Program: Group Health Cooperative needs volunteer drivers to transport frail, elderly members to and from medical appointments in King County. Volunteers use their personal cars, are reimbursed for mileage and determine their own schedules, including when, where and how often they will drive. Volunteers do not need to be Group Health members. 206-326-2800 or resource.l@ghc.org.

Stitches from the Heart: Volunteers are needed to knit, crochet or quilt blankets, sweaters, hats and booties for babies in need. Items go to hospitals across the country. Patterns available. Donations of yarn or money also appreciated. Call for details. 866-472-6903, stitchfromheart@aol.com or www.StitchesFromTheHeart.org.

United Way of King County volunteer readers: Volunteers needed to read one-on-one with young children at preschools, Head Start classrooms and child care centers throughout King County. Shifts needed in Auburn are 9:30-10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and 11 a.m.-noon Wednesdays. ACAP Child and Family Services, 526 12th St. S.E., Auburn. 206-461-3656 or readers@uwkc.org.

White River Valley Museum and Mary Olson Farm: Museum is seeking volunteers for jobs including cleaning and cataloging artifacts, leading school tours, greeting visitors and staffing the gift shop. Docent positions require a minimum three-hour afternoon shift per month, as well as attendance at quarterly lectures and annual training. Volunteer tour guides for school groups must be available during October, November, April and May. All volunteers receive training. Application and background check required. 253-804-5010.

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA): Train to become a volunteer advocate for abused and neglected children in court. Help make the legal system work toward a safe, permanent home for these children. Must be 21, have excellent references and attend 28 hours of training. Contact us for more information and training dates at 206-296-1120 or at casa.group@kingcounty.gov

Music, theater

Live jazz: 5:30-7:30 p.m., every Saturday, featuring local musicians. Pazzo Coffee, 3312 Auburn Way S., Suite A, Auburn. Free admission for anyone who likes jazz.

Quartet for the End of Time: 4 p.m., Jan. 17, St. Matthew/San Mateo Episcopal Church, 123 L St. NE, Auburn. Presented by Auburn Symphony Orchestra Chamber Series. Featuring the music of organist and composer Olivier Messiaen, performed by the ASO’s Cordula Merks (violin); Denise Lum (clarinet); Brian Wharton (cello) and Tanya Stambuk (piano). Tickets: adults $15, students $10. Call 253-887-7777 or purchase on-line at auburnsymphony.org.

“Snowbound”: 7 p.m., Jan. 20, E.B. Foote Winery, 127 S.W. 153rd St., Suite B, Burien. Breeders Theater performance benefits Highline Community College Foundation. Tickets: $20, available from the HCC Foundation and at E.B. Foote Winery and Corky Cellars, 22511 Marine View Drive S. in Des Moines. www.funds4highline.org and www.breederstheater.com

Chicago City Limits “Wikiphobia”: 7:30 p.m., Jan, 30, Auburn Performing Arts Center, 700 E. Main St.. New York City’s legendary improv comedy group, Chicago City Limits, presents a unique style of comedy by combining sketches, musical theater and audience-inspired improvisations. Tickets: $18-16. Purchase online through Brown Paper Tickets or call Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation at 253-931-3043, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Calling all musicians: The Auburn Senior Activity Center will be hosting jam sessions for musicians on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month. Musicians who play acoustic and electric instruments are invited to play. Jam sessions will be conducted from 10-11:30 a.m. at the center, 808 9th St. SE. For more information, please call 253 931-3016.

That 80’s Show: 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m., every Tuesday, Muckleshoot Casino, 2402 Auburn Way S., Club Galaxy, 21-and-over. No cover. 253-939-7484, www.muckleshootcasino.com.

Nightlife

Baker Street Books: 7-10 p.m. various Fridays and Saturdays, live jazz. Baker Street Books, 32709 Railroad Ave., Black Diamond. 360-886-2131. All events are free, no cover.

The Royal Bear Pub and Eatery: 35731 W. Valley Highway, Algona. 253-833-6686.

Dance

Children’s Dance Theater: 14 B St. NE, Nos. 1, 2, Auburn. Call 253-887-8937 or visit www.auburnchildrensdancetheater.com for more information.

Ballroom dance: 2-4 p.m. the second and fourth Sundays of the month. Federal Way Senior Center, 4016 S. 352nd St., Auburn. 253-874-4270.

Creative Dance Movement: 10 a.m. Mondays and 11 a.m. Tuesdays. Dance movement class for ages 3-5. Ballet classes for older children available 4-5 p.m and 5-6 p.m. Tuesdays. Cost: $25 per month. Black Diamond Gym, 25511 Lawson St. 360-886-1011.

Museums

Black Diamond Historical Society Museum: Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursdays; noon-3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. 32627 Railroad Ave., Black Diamond. 360-886-2142, museum@blackdiamondmuseum.org or www.blackdiamondmuseum.org.

White River Valley Museum: • Exhibit: Jan. 13-Apri. 18. “On Track: The Railroad Photographs of Warren McGee.” Collection chronicles and pays tribute to 20th century Northern Pacific trains from Montana to Washington state. Jointly sponsored by Northern Pacific Railway Historical Association, Montana Department of Transportation and Montana Historical Society, the exhibit features nearly 40 stunning photographs taken by McGee over a 60-year period, beginning in the 1930s and continuing through the 1990s. Hours: Noon-4 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays. Admission: $1-$2; free on Wednesdays. 918 H St. S.E., Auburn. 253-288-7433 or www.wrvmuseum.org.

Galleries

Auburn City Hall: • Exhibit: Jan. 4-29. Featuring the work of photographers Victoria Bjorklund and Ann Quinn, 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. S.E. 253-931-5043 or www.auburnwa.gov/arts.