SEPTEMBER EVENTS

Local artists: The Federal Way Arts Commission seeks entries for its 16th annual Arts Alive Juried Art Exhibition. There is no entrance fee. Any media is accepted. Flat work must be ready to hang and may not exceed 36 inches by 30 inches. Three-dimensional art must fit within a cube nine inches on a side. Artwork should be dropped off between 3:30 and 6 p.m. Sept. 24 at the City Hall council chambers, 33325 8th Ave. S. A panel of three judges will make the final selection. Chosen art will hang in City Hall from Sept. 25 to Jan. 2. The winner of the Juror’s Award will receive $200 and a one-person exhibit at one of the city’s two galleries. The winner of the Commissioner’s Choice Award will receive $150, and the winner of the People’s Choice Award will receive $100. The arts commission will celebrate the exhibition and announce the three winners at its Arts Harvest Reception at 6 p.m. Oct. 7 at City Hall. Contact Mary Faber: mary.faber@cityoffederalway.com or (253) 835-6920.

Jazzercise: A Jazzercise open house will run at 6 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. Sept. 22 at the Weyerhaeuser King County Aquatic Center’s banquet hall building, 650 SW Campus Drive, Federal Way. The open house includes a free 60-minute workout. Childcare is available during the 6 p.m. class only. Refreshments and door prizes. (253) 333-8886 or jazzercise.com.

Disabled American Veterans: To help educate veterans and their families about their benefits, the DAV Mobile Service Office will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 22 at the Wal-Mart parking lot, 34520 16th Ave. S., Federal Way. The office will personally provide free counseling and claim filing. Call (206) 220-6225.

Patsy Cline: Centerstage will open its next season with the musical “Always…Patsy Cline,” which runs Sept. 26 through Oct. 12 at the Knutzen Family Theatre, 3200 SW Dash Point Road. The show is based on a true story about Cline’s friendship with a fan who befriended the star in a Texas honky-tonk in l961, and continued a correspondence with Cline until her death. For tickets, visit www.centerstage.com or call (253) 661-1444.

Unsale: Our Savior’s Baptist Church will hold an “unsale” from 9 a.m. to noon Sept. 27 at 701 S. 320th St., Federal Way. The unsale is open to the community and is like a garage sale, except that everything is free. Donations will be accepted 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sept. 26. To learn more, call (253) 839-6822.

Chili cook-off: Fire up your taste buds for the Federal Way Farmers Market’s Chili Cook-off. Festivities run 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 27 at The Commons mall parking lot. Federal Way police and South King Fire and Rescue firefighters will face off in a battle to make the best chili. Tickets are $10 and include chili, corn bread, a drink and dessert. All proceeds benefit South King Firefighters Foundation as well as the Special Olympics. The event will include live entertainment. Get your tickets in advance at the Federal Way Mirror, Federal Way Farmers Market, Rainier Pacific Bank and Evergreen Bank. To learn more, call Janice Siebenaler at (253) 529-7021 or Marty Markey at (253) 926-5925.

Ruby Dance: Friends of the Hylebos will hold its annual Ruby Dance fundraiser from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sept. 27 at the Weyerhaeuser King County Aquatic Center in Federal Way. Proceeds support conservation of critical natural spaces in the Hylebos Watershed. The event also celebrates the annual homecoming of the Hylebos Creek salmon. Tickets are $60 per person. Silent auction and dinner included. Call (253) 874-2005 or visit www.hylebos.org.

Give blood: Cascade Regional Blood Services is holding donation drives Sept. 20, 21, 23 and 25 in Federal Way. To learn more, e-mail eileens@crbs.net or call (253) 312-8644.

Live music: Salty’s Restaurant, 28201 Redondo Beach Drive S. in Redondo, hosts live music 9:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Schedule includes Glenn Harrell, Sept. 20; Heather Banker, Sept. 26; Myles Crew, Sept. 27. Music is in the bar. Call (253) 946-0636.

Kamikaze survivors: Federal Way Matters will sponsor a showing of “Wings of Defeat” at 4 p.m. Sept. 28 at the Federal Way Regional Library, 34200 1st Way S. The 89-minute film focuses on Japanese kamikaze pilots who survived and shared their stories. Visit FederalWayMatters.org.

Senior dancing: The Kent Senior Activity Center will host Tuesday evening dances from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at 600 E. Smith St., Kent. Dancers and listeners of all ages are welcome. Cost is $4 at the door. For a band schedule, call (253) 856-5164.

OCTOBER EVENTS

Meet the candidates: Candidates for District 30 state representative as well as Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction will participate in a debate Oct. 9 at the EX3 Ron Sandwith Teen Center, 31453 28th Ave. S., Federal Way. State Legislature candidates Mark Miloscia, Michael Thompson, Skip Priest and Carol Gregory will be featured from 6 to 6:45 p.m. Terry Bergeson and Randy Dorn, both candidates for Superintendent of Public Instruction, will be featured from 7 to 8 p.m. Sponsored by Nautilus K-8 PTA and Sacajawea Middle School PTSA.

Infants and toddlers: Interactive programs for families with young children run Oct. 3 through Nov. 21 at Federal Way United Methodist Church, 29645 51st Ave. S., Auburn. Classes are available 9:30 to 11 a.m. Fridays for toddlers and 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Fridays for infants. Cost is $77.52. To register, call (253) 680-7500.

FW Symphony: The Federal Way Symphony will kick off the 2008-2009 season with a concert featuring cello sensation Joshua Roman, formerly principal chair of the cello section with the Seattle Symphony at age 22. Concert runs 7:30 p.m. Oct. 4 and 2 p.m. Oct. 5 at St. Luke’s Church, 515 S. 312th St. Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors (65 and up) and free for students 18 and under. Call (253) 529-9857 or visit www.federalwaysymphony.org.

Domestic violence: The third annual Stepping Out to Stop Domestic Violence Walk-a-Thon will be Oct. 4 at Starfire Sports in Tukwila. Registration is $10, and with an additional donation of $20 by Sept. 19, participants will receive a T-shirt. Registration is also available at 10 a.m. the day of the event. Call the South King County Community Network at (253) 850-5927, e-mail dheide@skccn.com.

Buddy Walk: The Seattle Area Down Syndrome Community will be hosting its 12th annual Puget Sound Buddy Walk from 1 to 4 p.m. Oct. 5 at the Seattle Center. Proceeds benefit programs and services for the Down Syndrome community and the National Down Syndrome Society. Visit www.pugetsoundbuddywalk.com.

Breast cancer aid: “Massage for the Cure” event will run 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Oct. 6 at Massage Envy in Federal Way. Free one-hour massages will be given for a suggested donation of $50 to benefit the Susan G. Komen for the Cure. To register, call (877) 777-ENVY.

Financial workshops: Woodstone Credit Union will hold free financial workshops for teens. Workshop topics include budgeting, investing, career choices, money safety and more. The workshops will be held at Woodstone Credit Union, 1825 S. 316th St. in Federal Way, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Oct. 8, Oct. 22, Nov. 5 and Nov. 19. Call (253) 925-6879.

Grapes of Wrath: The Multicultural Book Club will discuss John Steinbeck’s “The Grapes of Wrath” at 7 p.m. Oct. 8 at Federal Way 320th Library, 848 S. 320th St. Call (253) 839-0257.

Bunco: A “Bunco for Breast Cancer” event will begin 6:30 p.m. Oct. 9 at Twin Lakes Golf and Country Club, 3583 SW 320th St., Federal Way. The event, sponsored by St. Francis Hospital, will raise money to fund breast services ranging from mammograms to surgery for women who cannot afford health care. Appetizers will be provided. Beverages available for purchase. Tickets are $22 each. To register, call (888) 825-3227.

I Hate Hamlet: Auditions for the comedy “I Hate Hamlet” will run 7 to 10 p.m. Oct. 13 and 14 at the Knutzen Family Theatre, 3200 SW Dash Point Road. Please prepare a one to two-minute comedic monologue. Performances will be Jan. 23 to Feb. 1. To register, call (253) 835-2020.

NOVEMBER EVENTS

Veterans Day: One of the largest Veterans Day parades in the West will begin at 11 a.m. Nov. 8 along Main Street in Auburn. Other events run 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. The day kicks off with a breakfast and remembrance ceremony. Call (253) 931-3043 or visit www.auburnwa.gov.

ONGOING HAPPENINGS

Computer classes: The Federal Way Senior Center offers computer classes for all adults. For more information, call Larry Malcom at (253) 839-5418.

Free clothing for kids: The Clothing Resource Center, sponsored by the Federal Way PTSA Council 9.4, provides free clothing to children at 30819 14th Ave. S., across the street from the stadium at Federal Way High School. Throughout the school year, the center will be open 4:30 to 6 p.m. Tuesdays as well as 1 to 3 p.m. the first Saturday of every month. People can donate clean children’s clothing (no socks or underwear) during normal business hours. To learn more, e-mail tomskoda@msn.com.

Everyday hero: The American Red Cross Serving King and Kitsap counties is looking for “everyday heroes” from your community. The nominee must be a resident of, or employed within, King County or the heroic act must have occurred in King County. The heroic act must be ongoing or have occurred between Dec. 1, 2007, and Nov. 30, 2008. Call (206) 726-3543 or visit www.seattleredcross.org.

Driver safety: Tune up your driving skills with an AARP driver safety class. You may be eligible for a discount on your auto insurance after completion. Cost is $10 per person. Call (253) 838-3668 or (253) 661-4050.

Arts events: The South King County Cultural Coalition is a group of over 60 arts and heritage organizations in South King County. If you’re interested in receiving a monthly e-newsletter, e-mail info@sococulture.org. Check out a calendar for information on events happening this month: www.sococulture.org/html/calendar.html/.

Gardeners: Master gardeners will be at the Federal Way Farmers Market from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each Saturday through Oct. 25 at The Commons mall parking lot, at Pacific Highway South and South 320th Street. The gardeners are volunteers trained by Washington State University to provide free research-based horticultural information to the public.

Talented kids: Two Federal Way singing/dancing/acting groups, Show Biz Kids and Teen Idols, are now accepting new members. Show Biz Kids is a non-auditioned group of performers ages 5 to 16 (no experience required) and Teen Idols is an auditioned group of talented teens ages 13 to 19 (looking for big talent, not necessarily experience). Performers are divided by age. Rehearsals for both groups are once a week in Federal Way with performances around the community and beyond. Visit www.joinshowbizkids.com or call (206) 304-4087.

Breast cancer: Trained survivors offer free emotional support to the newly diagnosed, enhancing emotional recovery while going through treatments. Will attend consultations, chemotherapy and radiation appointments. Volunteers will help you to wellness by being a role model, helping you to have quality of life at this critical time. Visit www.angelcarefoundation.org, call (206) 417-3484 or e-mail angelcare@angelcarefoundation.org.

Advancing Leadership: Men and women who live or work in Federal Way and are interested in becoming more involved in the community are encouraged to apply for the Advancing Leadership 2008-2009 session. An ideal class would include people with varied backgrounds, cultures and interests, from both the business and private sectors, who together represent a balanced cross-section of the city population. Contact Teri Hickel at (253) 838-2605, ext. 102 or e-mail terih@federalwaychamber.com. Also visit www.advancingleadership.org.

Town hall: Mayor Jack Dovey and Deputy Mayor Eric Faison invite residents to join them for an informal question and answer session about Federal Way at new, twice-monthly town hall meetings. The meetings are free and refreshments will be served. Call (253) 835-2401 for more information.

Food bank: The Federal Way Food Bank needs volunteer drivers and helpers to assist with the Multi-Service Center’s efforts. Volunteer schedules are flexible. To learn more, call Mary Craves-Hollands at (253) 838-6810, Ext. 109.

Blood donors: Puget Sound Blood Center is encouraging residents to donate blood. To schedule an appointment, call (800) 398-7888 or visit www.psbc.org. Puget Sound Blood Center is located at 1414 S. 324th St., Suite B101, Federal Way.

Give blood: Cascade Regional Blood Services especially needs blood donations. The Federal Way center is at 33505 13th Place S. Suite B. Call (253) 945-7974 or e-mail robinl@crbs.net.

Anti-war rally: An anti-war rally will run noon to 1 p.m. every Sunday until further notice at the intersection of South 320th Street and Pacific Highway South in Federal Way. Participants are encouraged to bring signs. To learn more, visit FederalWayMatters.org.

Oral history: If you hare a better talker than writer, join the Federal Way Senior Center to record for posterity the memorable events of your life. Meetings run 12:45 to 2 p.m. Wednesdays. No charge. To learn more, call (253) 838-3604.

Youth employment: Multi-Service Center in Federal Way has begun a new program geared toward youth ages 16 to 21 living in South King County. The YES program, which stands for Youth Employment Services, provides eligible youth with one-on-one assistance in developing an employment plan for a future career. Participants can get help with study skills and coaching that allow them to graduate on time, or can receive assistance in getting a GED or beginning vocational training. YES program and its services are free and confidential. E-mail tricias@multi-servicecenter.com or call (253) 838-6810, ext. 115.

Dancing, bingo, exercise: The Federal Way Senior Center will offer dance sessions 2 to 4 p.m. the second and fourth Sundays of each month. Local band Merry-Notes will perform swing, latin, country, polka, waltz and pattern dance music. The center is starting bingo at 10 a.m. every Tuesday. Senior exercise is at 9 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The senior center is at 4016 S. 352nd St. in Auburn. For more information, call Rusty Ford at (253) 838-3604.

Monday night supper: Volunteers are needed to assist with a Monday night supper to feed the less fortunate at Steel Lake Presbyterian Church, 1829 S. 308th St., Federal Way. Dishwashers are needed from 4:30 to 6 p.m. the third Monday of the month. A coordinator is needed one Monday a month. To learn more, call Hope Elder at (253) 941-7939.

Fire Stoppers Program: South King Fire and Rescue helps families with children who have played with fire or deliberately set a fire and can help teach your child about fire safety. Call (253) 946-7337.

Dragon boat: New paddlers are welcome to join the Rainier Dragons paddling team on the Thea Foss Waterway in Tacoma. The group provides paddles, life jackets, boats and three practices for free. Group meets 3:30 p.m. Sundays near Johnny’s Dock Restaurant and Marina. To learn more, call (253) 272-7087 or (253) 565-3756.

LOCAL GROUPS

Quilting Guild: Crazy Quilters of Federal Way group meets 6 to 9 p.m. every second and fourth Thursday at Evergreen Lodge Retirement Home, 31002 26th Ave. S. New members and visitors welcome. Contact: (253) 833-8302.

Gay and lesbian support: There is a new Christian support group for family members of lesbians and gays. For more information, call Rev. Mark Bonnema at (253) 736-4425. The program is a ministry of Marine View Presbyterian Church.

Mental illness: The National Alliance on Mental Illness is a grass-roots organization created to support families dealing with all types of mental conditions. Bipolar, schizophrenia, major despression, Alzheimer’s, etc. are some of the common mental issues facing one out of five families today. NAMI spends a lot of time fighting for better coverage from insurance companies, trying to improve the methods for dealing with the mentally ill, educating families and trying to raise awareness and break the stigma attached to mental illness. Call Shelley Merryfield at (253) 945-7157 or visit NAMI.org.

Messies Anonymous: A free 12-step group for those with too much clutter. Weekly meetings in Des Moines and other Puget Sound locations. Call Elizabeth at (206) 248-2922.

Country club: Twin Lakes Golf and Country Club announced its 2008 membership drive. To learn more, call Carol at (253) 838-0432.

FW history: The Federal Way Historical Society needs help with its newsletter, filing, typing oral stories and year-round society activities. The society holds its board meeting at 9:30 a.m. the first Thursday of each month. To learn more, e-mail hsfwassist@yahoo.com or call Barb Barney at (253) 945-7842.

Military family support: Meetings are held on Tuesday evenings in Federal Way for military spouses and adult family members who have a military member in their life deployed, soon to leave or has recently returned. Topics of the group will include deployment concerns, parenting needs, self-care and relationship challenges. This group is free and confidential. Childcare is available. Services are provided by Valley Cities Counseling and Consultation, Veterans Services Program, 33301 1st Way S., Federal Way. To register, call (253) 661-6634, Ext. 145.

Veterans clinic: The Veterans Affairs Community Based Outreach Clinic in Federal Way serves veterans from the South King County area. The clinic opened last September at 34617 11th Place S. and is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. To learn more, call (253) 336-4142.

Hospital helpers: The St. Francis Hospital Women’s Auxiliary is open to women of all ages with an interest in supporting hospital and community programs. The group meets the second Wednesday of the month at St. Francis Hospital. Call Toni Myhre at (253) 944-4176.

Al Anon: Al Anon, a support group for friends and families of alcoholics meets at 6:30 p.m. every Monday at Saltwater Unitarian Universalist Church, 25701 14th Place S., Des Moines. There is also an Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meeting at the same time and place. To learn more, call (253) 839-5200.

30th District Democrats: Group meets at 7 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month at the Federal Way Senior Center, 4016 S. 352nd St. To learn more, call (253) 661-2287 or e-mail chair@30thdemocrats.com. Also visit www.30thdemocrats.com.

30th District Republicans: Group meets 7 p.m. the third Thursday of every month at the Intellipass building, 1925 S. 341st Place, Federal Way. To learn more, call (253) 839-8048 or e-mail waltschrader@yahoo.com. Also visit www.fwgop.org.

Domestic violence: Coordinated Community Response Against Domestic Violence (CCRADV) promotes family peace in King and Pierce counties. This nonprofit organization is based in Federal Way and is always looking for volunteers and board members, especially male board members. To learn more, call (253) 929-1529 or e-mail ccradv@comcast.net.

Radio club: The Federal Way Amateur Radio Club meets at 7 p.m. the second Thursday of the month at the Federal Way Church of Christ’s Teen Center, 29904 Military Road. Directions to our meeting place and other club information can be found online at http://fwarc.org.

Flute circle: The Wind Spirit Flute Circle invites the public to participate in exploring the Native American flute. All ages and abilities are welcome to participate or just listen. The circle meets at 6:30 to 9 p.m. every third Wednesday of the month at the Federal Way Senior Center, 4016 S. 352nd St., Auburn. Free private lessons are offered 6:30 to 7 p.m. before the circle meeting. Call Cheryl Phillips at (253) 568-6689.

Cats: Top Cats 4-H Club is designed to teach Federal Way children how to care for and show their cats. Call Karen Martin at (253) 839-1437.

Foster parents: Fostering Together offers support groups for potential and current foster and foster adoptive parents. Child care and light refreshments are provided. The Federal Way Support HUB meets 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of every month. To learn more, e-mail btinaj@comcast.net or call (206) 576-4346.

Jet Cities Chorus: The Jet Cities Chorus encourages interested women to attend a rehearsal of this local chapter of Sweet Adelines International. The chorus sings four-part, a cappella harmony, and offers continuing training and education to its members. All voice parts needed; all skill levels encouraged. Rehearsals are 7 p.m. Mondays at Calvary Lutheran Church, 2415 S. 320th St., Federal Way. For more information, visit www.jetcities.org or call (206) 406-1360.

Overeaters Anonymous: If food has become a problem, Overeaters Anonymous offers free weekly support meetings. The group gathers at 7 p.m. every Monday at 32300 1st Ave S. in Federal Way. No fees, dues, weigh-ins or diets are associated with Overeaters Anonymous. For more information, call (206) 264-5045 or (253) 472-5356.

Gamblers: Does gambling have you defeated? There is help! Call (888) 424-3577 for a Gamblers Anonymous meeting in your community.

Performing arts center: Anyone interested in being involved in the process of establishing a performing arts venue in Federal Way should call Joann Piquette at (253) 839-4389 or e-mail Jodawg@Juno.com.

PFLAG meeting: The South King County Chapter of Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) meets 7 p.m. the fourth Monday of every month at Unitarian-Universalist Church, 25701 14th Place S., Des Moines. To learn more, call (206) 325-7724.

Join the auxiliary: The St. Francis Hospital Auxiliary is open to women of all ages with an interest in supporting hospital and community programs. The group meets the second Wednesday of the month at the St. Francis medical office building. A summer social for all members will begin Aug. 20. To learn more, call (253) 944-4176.

Kiwanis: Kiwanis Club of Greater Federal Way meets 7:30 a.m. every Tuesday at Denny’s restaurant on 320th Street in Federal Way. We would like you to join us. Contact president Donavan Knight at (253) 719-8257 or Wayne Moritz at (253) 941-0354. Visit www.greaterfedwaykiwanis.org. The group’s main focus is to serve youth.

Mensa: Social club for those who enjoy stimulating conversation, fun events and a sense of family. Members meet regularly for dinner, game nights and other special events. A score in the top 2 percent on an accepted IQ test is required for membership. Submit your score from a previous test, or take the Mensa test. Tests will be held in October and November throughout Oregon and Washington. To register, contact testing@oregon.us.mensa.org. To learn more about Mensa, visit www.us.mensa.org or call (866) 239-7548.

Grief support: Widowed Information and Consultation Services, a non-sectarian group offers support to anyone coping with the death of their spouse or partner. The group meets every first and third Tuesday of the month at Village Green Retirement Campus, Fairfield Building, 35451 1st Ave. S., Federal Way. Call (206) 241-5650.

More grief support: Good Samaritan hospital is now offering a grief and loss support group. The group will meets 1 to 3 p.m. every Monday at the Auburn Senior Center, 808 9th St. S.E., Auburn. Group meetings will conclude Sept. 24. This resource is available to any adult who has lost a loved one. Space is limited, so registration is required. To register call Dana Neil at (253) 697-7136 or e-mail dana.neil@goodsamhealth.org.

Lions: The Federal Way Lions Club meets at noon the first and third Tuesday of every month at the Denny’s on South 320th Street. To learn more, call Bob Darrigan at (253) 874-4282.

Baha’is: The Federal Way Baha’is hold a variety of events all year and invite residents to join the fun. To learn more, call Jan Teal at (206) 790-1865 or visit http://bci.org/federalwaybahai/.

Book groups: The Federal Way 320th Library hosts regular book discussion groups. The Multicultural Book Group meets at 7 p.m. every second Wednesday each month. The Between the Covers Afternoon Book Discussion Group meets at 1 p.m. on the final Monday of each month. New members are welcome to both groups. The 320th branch library is located at 848 S. 320th Street. For more information about upcoming programs, visit www.kcls.org and click on “Programs.”

Rotary: The Federal Way Sunrise Rotary meets at 7:15 a.m. Tuesdays at Marie Callendar’s Restaurant, 31920 Gateway Center Blvd. S. To learn more, call president Byron Hiller at (206) 718-2715. The Federal Way Rotary Club meets at noon every Thursday. To learn more, call Lisa Skari at (206) 870-3705.

Angel Care: Angel Care Breast Cancer Foundation offers free emotional support to those who have been newly diagnosed, enhancing emotional recovery during treatment. Volunteers are available in Federal Way who can attend consultations, chemotherapy and radiation appointments. For more information, visit www.angelcarefoundation.org, call (877) 861-5655 or e-mail angelcare3@aol.com.

Homeschool Support Association: Local homeschool parents meet from 7 to 9 p.m. every second Thursday at First Baptist Church, 30029 16th Ave. S. in Federal Way. For information, call (253) 661-8182 or visit www.hsa-wa.org.

Women’s Club: The Women’s Club of Federal Way will host its monthly at 11 a.m. Sept. 17 at the Twin Lakes Golf and Country Club. For reservations or to learn more, call (253) 838-6753 or (253) 839-3519.

Bible study: A women’s Bible study will meet at 7 p.m. every other Thursday at nine Lakes Baptist Church, 1631 S. 330th St., Federal Way. Event includes worship, discussion and refreshments. No child care at this time. To learn more, call Carol Gill at (253) 835-3395 or e-mail carolccfw@comcast.net.

Alzheimer’s support group: A support group for caregivers who are caring for people with memory loss meets from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. every first Wednesday of the month at the Federal Way Professional Plaza, located at 31919 6th Ave. S., Suite A-100. For more information, call Arta at (253) 534-7044.

Interstitial Cystitis Support Group: Those diagnosed with or suspect they have interstitial cystitis, or painful bladder syndrome, can learn how local practitioners are treating the disease and with what treatments they are having success. Meet others in your local community who share your challenge. Support group meets from 6 to 7 p.m. every second Thursday of the month at the St. Francis Hospital Outpatient Center (Jeff and LeAnne Stock) Conference room at 34515 9th Ave. S. To learn more, call Dana Andersen at (888) 323-6700, Ext. 3094.

Orchid Society: The Greater Federal Way Orchid Society hosts monthly meetings at 6:30 p.m. every third Thursday at Kloshe Illahee meeting lodge located at 2500 S. 370th St. Meetings end before 9 p.m. For more information, call (253) 946-2300.

Town Criers: Town Criers Toastmasters Club meets from 6:45 to 7:45 a.m. every Thursday at Highline Community College, located at 33320 First Way S., Building A. Visitors to these ongoing meetings are welcome. For more information, call (253) 835-0142.

Small business: “Pathways to Prosperity” Business Networking International (BNI) chapter meets 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Tuesday at Vince’s Italian Restaurant, 32411 Pacific Highway S., Federal Way. Small business owners are welcome to visit. E-mail Laura Clark at lauraclark@johnlscott.com or call (253) 569-3519.

American Legion: The American Legion meets at 7:30 p.m. every first Tuesday of the month at Brooklake Community Center, located at 726 S. 356th St. In the event of holidays, meetings are postponed until the following Tuesday. The group is seeking new members and invites all members to attend. For more information, call (253) 927-3056.

Survivor Of Suicide Support Group: Support groups in both Tacoma and Auburn offer support for survivors of suicide. In Tacoma, the group meets from 7 to 9 p.m. every first and third Monday of each month at Life Center Church located on South 19th Street and South Union Avenue. For more information, call Kathy at (253) 446-6500. The Auburn Group meets from 7 to 9 p.m. every second and fourth Tuesday at the Auburn Fire Station located on D Street and 15th Avenue. For more information, call Joan at (253) 838-8947.

Model railroad club: Tacoma Northwest Model Railroad Club currently has about 20 active members. Membership in the club is open to all who have an interest in model railroading. To learn more, visit www.tnwmrr.org or call (253) 568-1011.

Panic Relief: The nonprofit group Panic Relief hosts seminars for those seeking to overcome fears, anxiety and agoraphobia. Programs are from noon to 1 p.m. Mondays and from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays. For more information, contact director Judy Schiffman at (732) 940-9658.

BOOKS AND AUTHORS

Paperbacks for kids: Children ages 12 to 18 can get a new paperback book free by reading three books and writing three short reviews. Registration forms are available at any King County public library or www.kcls/read3. Books read for school count for this program.

Read to kids: United Way of King County is recruiting volunteers to read aloud to young children and prepare them for kindergarten. Volunteers will read to children at select preschools, Head Start classrooms, and child care centers throughout the community on a weekly basis. The time commitment is one to two hours during weekday working hours for a nine-month period. For more information or to fill out an application, visit unitedwayofkingcounty.org or e-mail readers@uwkc.org.

STUDYING, LITERACY and TUTORING

Literacy tutors: Adults are invited to learn more about the resources the Federal Way Regional Library has to offer on becoming an English as a Second Language tutor. To register, call the library at (253) 838-3668.

More tutoring: Staff from the Multi-Service Center Adult Education Program holds informational meetings on how to become an adult literacy tutor. For more information, call the Multi-Service Center Adult Education Program at (253) 838-6810 Ext. 112.

Study Zone: Students in kindergarten through high school can get free homework help from volunteer tutors at Federal Way Regional Library, 34200 First Way S. Call (253) 838-3668 for hours. Des Moines Library, 21620 11th Ave. S., offers help from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. each Wednesday.

VOLUNTEERS

St. Francis Hospital: Volunteering can provide a variety of interesting and fulfilling opportunities for people of all ages. Call Toni Myhre at (253) 944-4176 or apply online at www.fhshealth.org.

FUSION: Friends of FUSION seeks volunteers. FUSION (Friends United to Shelter the Indigent, Oppressed and Needy) provides transitional housing and support services for homeless women and children in the Federal Way area. To learn more, call Judy Free at (253) 838-0368.

FW history: The Federal Way Historical Society needs help with its newsletter, filing, typing oral stories and year-round society activities. The society holds its board meeting at 9:30 a.m. the first Thursday of each month. To learn more, e-amil hsfwassist@yahoo.com or call Barb Barney at (253) 945-7842.

Phone Pal: Franciscan Palliative Care Outreach program seeks volunteers to be a phone pal to patients with life-threatening illness. Requires a gentle heart and a patient ear, 4-6 hours per month, training and monthly meetings provided. Call Nicole at (253) 534-7014.

Friend to Friend: Nationally, six out of 10 residents in nursing homes never have a visitor. Can you visit such a person a couple times a month at your convenience? Call Friend to Friend at (888) 383-7818 for more information.

Drivers wanted: Group Health Cooperative’s Special Transportation Program 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. To learn more, e-mail resource.l@ghc.org or call (206) 326-2800.

More drivers: Senior Services Transportation Program is seeking volunteers who are available weekdays to drive local seniors to medical appointments. For more information, call (206) 448-5740, (800) 282 5815 or visit www.seniorservices.org to apply.

Long-term care helpers: The King County Long Term Care Ombudsman Program needs volunteers in the Federal Way area to help ensure proper care of local elderly residents. Volunteers advocate on behalf of residents in long-term care facilities, and commit to visiting an assigned facility for four hours a week. To learn more, call (206) 694-6703, e-mail maryf@solid-ground.org or visit www.ltcop.org.

Caregiving Network Supper: The Federal Way Community Caregiving Network host community suppers every Thursday, including holidays, at 5 p.m. at Calvary Lutheran Church. Currently, the group is searching for someone with experience in seeking out and applying for grants. The group is also seeking people for positions including cooks, servers, clean-up, gleaners and inventory control. For more information, contact Heather, volunteer coordinator, at h2busy@yahoo.com or (253) 508-4556 or call (253) 661-0505.

MS help: The Multiple Sclerosis Association of King County needs volunteers to help people with MS maintain their independence and quality of life. To learn more, call Gregg Robinson at (206) 633-2606 or visit www.msakc.org.

Phone pals: Improving Care through the End of Life seeks volunteers to be a phone pal to patients with life-threatening illness. Requires a gentle heart and a patient ear, 4 to 6 hours per month. Training and monthly meetings provided. Call Nicole at (253) 534-7014.

Legal Clinic: Volunteer generalists or family law specialist attorneys are needed to advise clients at the Federal Way Legal Clinic, frin 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Federal Way Regional Library, 34200 First Way S. To learn more, call (206) 267-7029.

CASA: King County is looking for volunteers to become advocates for abused and neglected children in court. The positions, called Court Appointed Special Advocates, includes 28 hours of training. Volunteers must be 21 and have excellent references. For more information, visit www.metrokc.gov/kcsc/dcpcasa.htm or call (206) 296-1120.

Terra Lingua: The nonprofit organization Terra Lingua is seeking volunteers to host English-speaking foreign exchange students from France, Germany, South Korea, Russia and Taiwan. Students are between 15 and 18 years old. For more information, visit www.terralinguausa.org or call (877) 520-2522.

Auburn Regional Medical Center: Volunteers are needed for the information desk to greet and direct patients to their destination. Volunteers for this position must have excellent customer service skills, enjoy working with people, and able to quickly learn the layout of the entire hospital. Typically, volunteers provide a minimum of one three-hour shift per week. Benefits include a free meal for each shift and participation in hospital and Auxiliary events. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. For more information or to receive an application contact volunteer coordinator, Gretchen Handorff-Karout, at (253) 833-7711 Ext. 1254 or Human Resources, Melissa McBride, at (253) 833-7711 Ext. 1259.

St. James ESL Program: Volunteers for the St. James Cathedral English as a Second Language program are needed to teach one-on-one to refugees or immigrants who are blind or visually impaired. For more information, call Cecilia Erin Walsh at (206) 382-4511 or e-mail cwalsh@stjames-cathedral.org.

Franciscan Hospice: Volunteers are needed to help terminally ill patients and their families in the Federal Way, Auburn and Kent areas as many as four hours a week. To register for a free monthly orientation or for more information, call (253) 534-7069, e-mail jamesbentley@FHShealth.org or visit www.hospice.FHShealth.org.

World Vision battles flood crisis: Federal Way-based World Vision is seeking $2 million in private and public funding sources to aid the group’s effort to combat a flooding crisis in Mozambique. A recent tropical cyclone has worsened the situation in central Mozambique, forcing roughly 165,000 people from their homes. The initial relief response is expected to last three months. The group reports most displaced families are living in makeshift settlements with limited food, water and sanitation services. For more information, visit www.worldvision.org.