May 17 to 19

• X-treme Theatre presents Peter Pan the Musical at The ACT in Maple Ridge. About 100 homeschooled children and youth, ages five to 18, from the surrounding areas as far as West and North Vancouver, have been practicing for this debut since last September. The show runs at 7 p.m., with a matinee on May 19 at 2 p.m. Tickets on sale at www.theactmapleridge.org/Extreme-Theatre-Peter-Pan.

May 17

• Cinema Politica Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows is featuring the film On The Line made by Vancouver producer Frank Wolf. The film features Wolf and his friend Todd McGowan as they hike, bike, raft, and canoe the route of the proposed Enbridge Northern Pipeline from Bruderheim, Alta., to Kitimat. Along this 2,400-kilometre journey they interview locals to get feedback on the effects this $5.5 billion pipeline would have on their way of life. The guest speaker for this screening is Ben West, healthy communities campaigner with the Wilderness Committee. He will be giving a presentation and leading a discussion following the film. The film will be screened at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.) at Maple Ridge Municipal Hall, council chambers, 11995 Haney Pl. Info: www.onthelinemovie.com.

May 19

• “I Love to Dance” dance takes place at the Ridge Meadows Seniors Activity Centre, 12150 224th St. and includes a salsa lesson from 7 to 8 p.m. with Robyn Picard. Tickets are $20 and include a food layout. Singles are welcome. Info: www.ilovetodance.ca or Ray at 604-836-7295.

May 19

• Jack Lavin, founder of Vancouver’s legendary Powder Blues and Gary Koliger, first-call session guitarist and arguably Edmonton’s hottest picker are performing at Kingfisher’s Waterfront Bar and Grill in Maple Ridge for their debut CD release party. Three years in the making, the two veteran musicians play their original songs from their new CD I Got Your Back. Spanning a wide array of musical styles these songs are lively, humorous, and fresh takes on some old subjects – life, love, and getting along with your fellow man. The event runs from 8 p.m. to midnight.

May 19

• The Literacy Day Committee has interactive free games for children in the bandstand at the Haney Farmers Market. Also, Food Revolution Day bring out the Gourmet Grannies with tours of the market, samples of cock-a-leekie soup, recipes, and more. Member-only specials can be found at A Bread Affair and Simply Delish Soup and Salads. Not a member? Visit the information booth. Kids Korner will be planting zucchini seeds. Delany Rose is entertaining in the Cafe Corner. Info: www.haneyfarmersmarket.org

May 20

• Ruskin Community Hall Association will hold a flea market at Ruskin Hall, corner of 96th Ave. and 284th St., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free admission. Coffee and snacks will be available. Tables are $15 and can be reserved by email to ruskinhall@yahoo.ca.

May 22

• The Maple Ridge Library presents a seminar by the staff at Edward Jones: Protecting what matters most – four types of insurance you should know about. The talk takes place at the library from 7 to 8:30 p.m. and is the third in a three-part series on managing personal finances.

May 25

• Hominum, an informal discussion and support group to help gay, bisexual, and questioning men with the challenges of being married, separated, or single, meets at 7:30 p.m. For information and meeting location, call Art 604-462-9813 or Don 604-329-9760.

May 25

• Time to Tell is an Immigrant Services Society of BC workshop designed to help immigrants learn about their community and about Canadian society. It takes place at the Maple Ridge Library at 10 a.m. In the first session of a series that will continue in the fall, Cecilia Christensen will talk about the differences between Canadian and Danish life, culture, and immigrant services. Registration is required. For more information, call the Maple Ridge Library at 604-467-7417.

May 26

• The Asante Centre presents the Amazing Car Rally starting and finishing at Golden Ears Pub. Participants can sign up for $40 (minimum donation) and will be directed with cryptic clues to 11 stations throughout Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows. The event is a fundraiser for the Asante Centre. Tickets are available from Golden Ears Pub, the Asante Centre, by calling 604-644-3011, or emailing asanterally@gmail.com or marymrbc@gmail.com. Golden Ears Pub will be offering a burger and beverage for $15.

May 26

• On May 26 Ridge Meadows Rugby Club will be hosting their general meeting, open house and barbecue from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Merkley Park, 21944 124th St. (behind Maple Ridge Secondary School). There will be informal touch and tag rugby games for ages six-plus. Kids, youth and adults can join and try the sport for the day. The club will be offering free summer rugby for children Grades 1 to 9. Info: www.BruinsRugbyClub.com.

May 27

• The Great Strides Walk for cystic fibrosis takes place at 10 a.m. at the south end of Harris Road by the dike. Come out to participate and help raise money for cystic fibrosis research and support.

May 27

• Maple Ridge Secondary’s dry grad committee is hosting its second annual Show and Shine car show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the school. All proceeds go to providing the graduating class of 2012 with a safe, alcohol and drug free evening. Come see some cool rides, enjoy food, music, raffles, auction, and lots more. Anyone interested in showing their cool ride or being a vendor can get more info at clascarr@shaw.ca or contact Susan Carr at 604-467-8447.

May 29

• A Celtic Session with Nigel Tucker take place from 7 to 9 p.m. The sessions run the fourth Tuesday of the month. Anyone is welcome to bring an instrument, sing a song, or just join in the enjoyment and fun. The session take place in the lobby of T0he ACT in Maple Ridge.

May 30

• Calling all Jedi! Come to the Maple Ridge Library for Star Wars Craft Extravaganza at 3:30 p.m. Here is a chance to show one’s appreciation of Star Wars and have fun. For Grades 4 and up. Register at the second floor information desk at 604-467-7417.

May 30

• The Friends In Need Food Bank will hold its annual general meeting at 7 p.m. at their facilities at #8-22726 Dewdney Trunk Rd.

June 2

• St. George’s annual garage sale runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 23500 Dewdney Trunk Rd.Info: 604-463-9622 or www.stgeorgemr.org.

June 3

• The Ridge Meadows Hospital Foundation holds its ninth annual Fund Run. Lace up your sneakers and get ready to run for health care. The five-kilometre walk and run or 10-kilometre run takes place at Fairview Elementary. There will be a kids’ run as well this year. Lot of food, fun, and prizes. Check out the new pledge rewards program, route and registration information at www.rmhfoundation.com or call Laura 604-466-6958 for more information.

June 7

• Representatives from Service Canada will be presenting information about Canada Pension and Old Age Security at the Maple Ridge Library from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Contact the library at 604-467-7417 to register.

June 7

• SFU Philosophers’ Cafe will be having dinner at Roast Bistro Cafe & Grill, 102-22456 Lougheed Hwy. To attend, email Amabile Ranta at amapoier@hotmail.com by Friday, June 1. Info: 604-467-6278.

June 13

• 1st Yennadon Scout Group is holding their early registration night for beavers, cubs, scouts and venturers. The groups are co-ed program for kids ages 5 to 17. Registration takes place on between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. at Eagles Hall, 23461 Fern Cres.

June 14

• The Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows chapter of the Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition meets in the Maple Ridge Library, Greenside room from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. The group would like to see cycling in our communities become a mainstream mode of transportation for everyone. Drop by and learn more about what they do and what cycling means the community. Info: email Jackie at jchow23708@yahoo.ca or go to www.rmcyclist.info.

July 12

• The Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows chapter of the Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition meets in the Maple Ridge Library, Greenside room from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. The group would like to see cycling in our communities become a mainstream mode of transportation for everyone. Drop by and learn more about what they do and what cycling means the community. Info: email Jackie at jchow23708@yahoo.ca or go to www.rmcyclist.info.

August 9

• The Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows chapter of the Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition meets in the Maple Ridge Library, Greenside room from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. The group would like to see cycling in our communities become a mainstream mode of transportation for everyone. Drop by and learn more about what they do and what cycling means the community. Info: email Jackie at jchow23708@yahoo.ca or go to www.rmcyclist.info.

September 13

• The Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows chapter of the Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition meets in the Maple Ridge Library, Greenside room from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. The group would like to see cycling in our communities become a mainstream mode of transportation for everyone. Drop by and learn more about what they do and what cycling means the community. Info: email Jackie at jchow23708@yahoo.ca or go to www.rmcyclist.info.

October 11

• The Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows chapter of the Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition meets in the Maple Ridge Library, Greenside room from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. The group would like to see cycling in our communities become a mainstream mode of transportation for everyone. Drop by and learn more about what they do and what cycling means the community. Info: email Jackie at jchow23708@yahoo.ca or go to www.rmcyclist.info.

November 8

• The Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows chapter of the Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition meets in the Maple Ridge Library, Greenside room from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. The group would like to see cycling in our communities become a mainstream mode of transportation for everyone. Drop by and learn more about what they do and what cycling means the community. Info: email Jackie at jchow23708@yahoo.ca or go to www.rmcyclist.info.

Volunteers

• The Buddy Up for Breastfeeding program is currently accepting volunteer applications and will provide training in March. Volunteers need to have minimum six months breastfeeding experience and recognize and value the health benefits. For information or to get an application form, prospective volunteers can contact Rhonda O’Grady, volunteer resources coordinator at 604-466-7911 or Rhonda.OGrady@fraserhealth.ca.

• Katie’s Place animal shelter needs volunteers, particularly cleaners for Fridays and Sundays. However, any schedule can be accommodated. Help out some messy but grateful and loving little critters. Info: 604-463-7917 or volunteeratkatiesplace@shaw.ca.

• Special Olympics needs volunteers to be coaches and assistant coaches for various sports. They also need a newsletter writer-editor, and a fun basics coordinator who trains athletes in basic skills. Info: a.caughy@gmail.com.

• Ridge Meadows Hospice Thrift Store requires volunteers to sort, price, and stock shelves. The thrift store has extended its hours and is now open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday. Info: 604-463-7711.

• What does one hour of your time mean to us? Everything! Cythera Thrift Store has volunteer opportunities for weekend retail cashiers. Shifts are one hour in duration. Full training and support provided. Call Shelley at 604-467-4671. Net proceeds support women and children fleeing abuse.

• The Canadian Red Cross health equipment short-term loan program in Maple Ridge needs volunteers. The depot is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 12:30 to 4 p.m. This program lends out basic types of medical equipment such as wheelchairs, crutches, and bathroom aids, on a donation basis, for up to three months. A medical referral is required for equipment loan. The Maple Ridge office is located at 5-11435 201A St. and can be reached at 604-465-5050.

• The North Fraser Therapeutic Riding Association is gearing up for their Winter 2012 Horseback Riding Program. They urgently need volunteers to come forward to help groom and tack up horses and to either lead or side walk with the riders during their lessons. Horse experience is fabulous but not required. This is the place for anyone who enjoys the outdoors, working with wonderful people of all abilities, and loves animals. Potential volunteers must be at least 16 years of age. For information or to sign up for the orientation, call 604-462-7786.

• The Fraser Health Crisis Line is recruiting volunteers to provide assistance to people in the region who are experiencing emotional distress. No previous experience is needed as extensive training and on-going support is provided. Anyone interested in learning more about this challenging and rewarding experience, visit our website at www.options.bc.ca and follow the link for the crisis line.

• Volunteers needed to be mentors for newcomers to Canada. Settlement Mentoring is looking for volunteers who can act as a community guide and resource person. The time commitment is two to three hours once a week for three to six months. Contact Immigrant Settlement Services of B.C. (Maple Ridge) at 778-284-7026, ext. 1582 or smentoring.mr.@issbc.org.

Groups

• The Boys and Girls Club at Southgate Church, a faith-based group for children in grades 2 to 5, is taking registration. The cost is $40 for the January-to-May session. The club starts Jan. 13 and continues every second Friday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Info: Daryl Veasey at 778-549-9269 or dpveasey@gmail.com.

Groups

• A support group for widowed and divorced women aged 55 and older meets the last Friday of the month from 2 to 4 p.m. at St. George’s Anglican Church Hall, 23500 Dewdney Trunk Rd. They hold social activities, van outings, presentations about seniors concerns, and grief counselling. Info: Rose at 604-467-8319 or Lil at 604-463-4703.

Groups

• St. Andrew’s United Church holds a thrift sale every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with household items, clothing, and jewellery. The church is at 22165 Dewdney Trunk Rd.

Groups

• Grumpy Grandmas’ social group has an overflowing activity list. Join them for weekly coffee, cards, games, movies and overnight get-a-ways. No, they are not grumpy, rather they are a happy group of ladies that have lots of laughs. Their monthly meeting takes place the first Friday of every month. Info: Maureen 604-476-9794 or Sue 604-459-8089 for information.

Groups

• The Pitt Meadows Community Choir will be practising on Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. at the Pitt Meadows Heritage Church (corner of Harris and Ford roads in Pitt Meadows). Info: Kirsteen McLean at 778-866-0871 or info@vocalessence.ca.

Groups

• Beginner Hawaiian dance lessons for seniors (55-plus) will be held for a minimal cost of $1 for interested community members. Info: Diana at 604-465-5722.

Groups

• English Corner, a group for people with intermediate or advanced English skills, meets regularly to provide the opportunity to meet new people from around the world and learn English. They meet Mondays from 7 to 9 p.m. at 117-19041 Ford Rd. (in the centre of the housing co-op complex) in Pitt Meadows, on Tuesdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Maple Ridge Library’s Greenside Room, and on Wednesdays from 2:30 to 4 p.m. in the Maple Ridge Library’s Alouette Room. There is no fee or sign-up.

Groups

• If you are single and over 55 and would like to get out and enjoy B.C. Trails and walks in various Lower Mainland locations, get on the list for free two-hour walks every Saturday morning. Info: eileenanne70@hotmail.com. No cost to join group, no meetings.

Groups

• Hominum Fraser Valley Chapter is an informal discussion and support group to help gay, bisexual, and questioning men with the challenges of being married, separated, or single. They meet on the last Friday of every month. For information and meeting location, call Art at 604-462-9813 or Don at 604-329-9860.

Groups

• The Council of Senior Citizens Organizations (COSCO) is an advocacy group devoted to improving the quality of life for all seniors. Seniors’ organizations wishing to be affiliated or individuals who want to be members should contact Ernie Bayer at 604-576-9734 or ecbayer@shaw.ca.

Groups

• For information about emergency planning, visit www.mapleridge.ca and www.pittmeadows.bc.ca and click on visitors/emergency services/municipal emergency program for information. Or contact Barb Morgan, ESS director at 604-467-7301 or bmorgan@mapleridge.ca.

Groups

• The Stride to Thrive is a walking group that meets at Jerry Sulina Park for a one-hour walk on the dike every Saturday morning at 10 a.m. Meet in the parking lot by the large notice board, rain or shine. This group, sponsored by Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows Parks and Leisure Services, is for women of all ages whose lives or the lives of family and friends have been affected by cancer. Info: stridetothrive@hotmail.com.

Groups

• Maple Ridge Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) is a group of moms who have children from birth to kindergarten age. They meet on a regular basis for learning, laughter, support, and encouragement in a casual setting. They meet on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 9:30 to 11:15 a.m. at Maple Ridge Christian Reformed Church, 20245 Dewdney Trunk Rd. Childcare is provided. Info: Jill at 604-466-5948.

Groups

• Overeaters Anonymous meets every Wednesday evening at 7:15 to 8:30 p.m. at St. Andrew Church, 22165 Dewdney Trunk Rd. Use the back door entrance. Their membership incudes anorexics, bulimics, binge eaters, and overeaters. No dues or fees and no diets or weigh-ins. They are a fellowship. Newcomers welcome. Info: 604-878-4575.

Groups

• Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) meets every Monday except holidays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. in the library at the Ridge Meadows Seniors Centre at 12150 224th St., Maple Ridge. Info: Elma at 604-463-4831 or violetpt@telus.net.

Groups

• Take Off Pounds Sensibly. We are very affordable. Our group meets at 7 PM every Wednesday at Heritage Hall, 12460 Harris Road, Pitt Meadows. Please don’t hesitate to call for information, we welcome you. Rena: 604-460-1398 or Eloise: 604-465-7316.

Groups

• Singles walking group 45-plus, Happy Wanderers, meets Saturdays at 9:15 a.m. at Old Rec Hall, Harris Road and Lougheed Highway, Pitt Meadows. Leave at 9:30 a.m. and walk in various areas and trails both sides of the river. Info: 604-463-8874.

Groups

• The Blue Heron Toastmasters meets every Thursday at Pitt Meadows City hall from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Anyone interested in learning public speaking, effective communication, leadership skills, or how to run a meeting, can come and join the group as a guest in a fun and supportive atmosphere of self-paced learning. Info: Bob Garnett at rgarnett@telus.net or 604-460-0035 or Andrew Thompson at ansthom@aol.com at 604-460-0339.

Groups

• Debtors Anonymous meets Tuesdays from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Church, 22165 Dewdney Trunk Rd. Park and enter from the back of the building through the door marked with the big sign. Hope and recovery for debtors, compulsive spenders, and underearners. Info: mapleridge@debtorsanonymous.ca or John at 604-928-9697.

Groups

• Co-dependence Anonymous can help those desiring healthy and loving relationships. Meetings are Mondays at 7:30 p.m. at the One Way Club Society, 22270 North Ave. in Maple Ridge. Info: 604-836-1217.

Groups

• Ridge Meadows Hospice Society is hosting meat draws at the Jolly Coachman Pub, 19167 Ford Rd. in Pitt Meadows every Saturday from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. All proceeds go to support the hospice society programs.

Groups

• Bring your wee one, aged birth to five years old every Tuesday to the Whonnock Lake Centre from 9 to 11 a.m. for playtime, songs and crafts. Come meet others, have fun and connect with your wee one. There is a $2/family drop-in charge. Coffee and tea available for adults, bring a peanut-free snack for your little ones. Info: Kirsten at 604-466-6880 or kirsten.mah@shaw.ca.

Groups

• A new Toastmasters club meets at the Sprott-Shaw campus, 204-20395 Lougheed Hwy. in Maple Ridge on Tuesday nights at 7:30 p.m. Learn public speaking and leadership skills. Info: Elmer Thiessen 604-460-0660.

Groups

• Positively Speaking Toastmasters meets every Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m. in the Maple Ridge Municipal Hall council chambers. Info: 604-463-5519.

Groups

• Ladies’ Coffee and More mornings where ladies come to share and build friendships, do crafts, and have refreshments, meet at Grace Community Church, 12240 Harris Rd. from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Thursdays. Free and no registration required. Info: Lois at 604-941-3543 or Jayne at 604-465-6897.

Groups

• Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia can leave those with the disease, and their care partners, feeling isolated. The non-profit Alzheimer Society of B.C. offers support groups for early-stage parients and family caregivers that meet monthly. The groups offer practical tips, a supportive environment, and a chance to learn from others in similar circumstances. For information on meeting times and locations, call 604-298-0780 or 604-298-0782, or email dleclair@alzheimerbc.org. Info: www.alzheimerbc.org.

Groups

• Maple Ridge Japanese Language School is accepting new students. Space is available in their elementary classes with small class sizes and Japanese teachers. Classes include language skills (reading, writing, speaking) and cultural activities (origami, games). Classes are at the Maple Ridge Library in the Fraser Room on Saturday mornings from 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Info and registration: Susan at 604-465-2894.

Groups

• Golden Ears Writers Critique Group meets the first and third Fridays of the month from 1:45 to 4:45 p.m. in the Maple Ridge Library (upstairs). Adult writers of all levels and abilities welcome. Bring copies of writing for critique (800 to 1,000 words) or just drop in to find out what they are about. Info: www.facebook.com/goldenearswriters. Organizers ask that participants RSVP to educationwatch@gmail.com or on their Facebook page.

Groups

• Moms of Young Children Connect – a group of moms who have young children that meet on a regular basis for learning, laughter, support, and encouragement in a casual setting. Have a hot cup of coffee, socialize, and be inspired. They meet on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 9:15 to 11 a.m. at Burnett Fellowship Church, 20639 123rd Ave. Child care is provided at $1 per child per visit. Info: www.momsofyoungchildren.com.

Groups

•The Tri-City Singles Social Club welcomes members from Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows. The group provides the opportunity for single men and women over 40 to meet new friends and socialize in a variety of settings. They meet the third Friday of the month at 7:30 p.m. Call Darline at (604) 466 0017 for the meeting location and more information.

Groups

• The Fraser Health Crisis Line is recruiting volunteers to provide assistance to people in the region who are experiencing emotional distress. No previous experience is needed as extensive training and ongoing support is provided. If you are interested in learning more about this challenging and rewarding opportunity, go to www.options.bc.ca and follow the link for the Crisis Line. Next training starts soon.

Groups

• Celebrate Recovery Ridge-Meadows, a faith-based recovery program, meets every Friday St. George’s Anglican Church, 23500 Dewdney Trunk Rd. in Maple Ridge with dinner from 6 to 7 p.m., a general meeting with teaching, testimony, or guest speaker from 7 to 8 p.m. men’s and women’s share groups from 8 to 9 p.m. This program is sponsored by the Ridge Meadows Ministerial Association. It exists to serve the community of Ridge Meadows, to provide a safe place where people from all walks of life can share their experiences to give hope and encouragement to one another. Info: email carolkeating@shaw.ca, call 604-377-3575, or go to www.celebraterecovery.ca.

Groups

• Maple Ridge Lupus Support Group meets every third Friday of the month from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Fraser View Community Centre, 22610 116th Ave. Info: Diana at 604-465-4466.

Clubs

• Ridge Meadows Chess Club meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 5 p.m. at The ACT. Info: Chris at 604-467-2426 or cbdickson@telus.net.

Music

• Do you play music or love to listen? Come to Kanaka Coffee open mic event, an acoustic evening, open to musicians and audience alike at Kanaka Creek Coffee, 101-24155 102nd Ave. every Wednesday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Music

• Come join the Bergthorson Academy of Musical Arts’ Bluegrass Circle led by the local legend Denis Leclerc. Bring your banjo, mandolin, fiddle, guitar, upright bass, or vocal harmonies on the second and fourth Thursday of each month from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at the Pitt Meadows location of the Bergthorson Academy, 12229 Harris Rd. Info: Rob at 778-230-0543 or info@bergthorson.com.

Music

• Calling all drummers: The Maple Ridge Concert Band needs percussionists. They practise on Tuesday nights in the Maple Ridge Secondary band room from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Info: Brian Northam at 604-220-7499 or 604-463-4637.

Donations needed

• Ridge Meadows Hospital is looking for donations of current, used paperbacks in good condition for patients and residents at the hospital – no hardcover books. Donations can be dropped off at the volunteer resources office Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Info: rmhvolunteerservices@fraserhealth.ca.

Fundraiser

• The Maple Ridge Lions Club holds three local meat draws weekly: By Bailey’s and the Witch of Endor on Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m. and Sundays 3 to 5 p.m., and on Saturdays at the Fox’s Reach from 3 to 5 p.m.

Women’s English group

• The Community Literacy Committee has opened a drop-in office where anyone can come for help with literacy issues. People can ask for help to fill out an application or government form or to have their language levels assessed to be matched with a tutor. They will also be able to offer access to free learning software on the computers provided to the committee by the CEED Centre’s computer access program. They are also looking for donations of good quality children’s books for families to encourage reading at home and high interest magazines for adults to offer an informal lending library. A free Women’s English Group runs every Tuesday mornings from 10 to 11:30 a.m. This group will give women with basic English skills an opportunity to meet over coffee and learn English with a trained TESL tutor.

Maple Ridge Museum

• The Dewdney-Alouette Railway Society holds an open house in the basement of the Maple Ridge Museum the last Sunday of the month. The group has built models depicting Hammond, Port Haney, and Ruskin during the 1930s. The open house runs from 1 to 4 p.m. at the museum, 22520 116th Ave.

Maple Ridge Library

• Reading Buddies spring session runs until May 16. The program pairs elementary school children in grades 1 to 3 with high-school students for a half-hour of reading practice. Register at the second-floor information desk at the Maple Ridge Library. Info: 604-467-7417.

Maple Ridge Library

• Wacky Wednesdays takes place on Feb. 29, Games Night, March 28, Soap Making Workshop, April 25, Paper Airplane Building Contest, and on May 30, Star Wars Craft Extravaganza. It runs from 3 to 4:30 p.m. and is meant for children aged 10 to 12. Registration appreciated. Info: 604-467-7417.

January 9 to May 14

• Bring your baby to the Maple Ridge Library for one-on-one baby storytimes with Peek-a-Book. Storytimes run every Monday from Jan. 9 through May 14 from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. This program is for children from zero to18 months. Info: 604-467-7417.

January 10 to May 25

• Storytimes begin at the Maple Ridge Library with You, Me and the Li-bra-ry. Children of all ages and their caregivers will enjoy puppets, books, rhymes, and more. Storytimes run Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays starting January 10 through May 25 from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. Come prepared for fun, singing, and reading. Info: 604-467-7417.

Maple Ridge Library

Maple Ridge Choral Society

• The Maple Ridge Choral Society Choir starts a new season of song. Registration and rehearsal take place at St. Paul’s Church, 12145 Laity St. All singers are welcome. Info: Dennis: 604-465-8038 or Jerry at 604-463-0760.

Maple Ridge Gallery till March 17

• Artist Christopher Friesen is featured in a new solo exhibition, Duplicity, at the Maple Ridge Art Gallery. The exhibition title refers to the ways that representative art reveals, conceals, and contradicts meaning at multiple levels. Friesen views the world through the lens of technology as he alternates between a traditional and contemporary focus in his work. There will be a free artist presentation on Saturday, Jan. 28 from noon to 1 p.m. The gallery is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and select evenings. There will be a free public reception on Saturday, Jan. 14 from 2 to 4 p.m. The gallery is open at 1:30 p.m. The gallery is located at The ACT, 11944 Haney Pl.

Ridge Meadows Hospice Society

• Ridge Meadows Hospice Society requires visiting volunteers. Their next training session will begin in February. Call the society office to register or to learn more about how to volunteer at 604-463-7722 or visit their website www.ridgemeadowshospicesociety.com.

Pitt Meadows Library

• Mumble Jumble Storytimes runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays from Jan. 17 to May 17 from 11 to 11:30 a.m. at the Pitt Meadows Library). A little bit of this and a little bit of that: stories, singing, dancing and puppets. There will be lots of fun and laughter for kids of all ages and stages. Drop in.( Please note that the Thursday program is a repeat of the Tuesday program.)

Pitt Meadows Library

• French Storytimes run on Fridays at the Pitt Meadows Library from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. from Feb. 10 to June 8. Kids of all ages and stages can enjoy a variety of stories, rhymes and songs at our weekly French storytimes. This is an excellent way to prepare children for French immersion. Drop in.

Pitt Meadows Library Book Club

• The Pitt Meadows Library Book Club meets the third Wednesday of the month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Drop in and join a discussion about the monthly book choice. The group chooses a book every month. Registration appreciated. Info: 604-465-4113.

Games night at Pitt Meadows Library

• The Pitt Meadows Library holds a games night every second and fourth Wednesday of the month. There’s a variety of board games set up and light refreshments will be served. Participants can bring their own board games.

Grad dresses

• Worn Once Graduation Dresses are on sale at Thomas Haney Secondary every day during school hours until June 8. Graduation shopping can be as elaborate or as simple as you choose. For those that are creatively budgeting their graduation expenses, start here at THSS where beautiful, worn once graduation dresses ranging from $30 to $350 are available for anyone interested. Contact the school at 604-463-2001 for further details. Also, if you are wanting to sell your worn once graduation dress, contact the office and it will be added to the already beautiful selection.

Student Library Council

• Student Library Council members organize programs for teens, volunteer as reading buddies, and help with other library events. In doing so, they earn volunteer work experience hours. The council meets the third Wednesday of the month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Application forms are available at the second floor information desk at the Maple Ridge Library.

Philosophers’ Cafe

• The Student Library Council runs a philosophers’ cafe on the first Wednesday of the month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Maple Ridge Library where they discuss weighty issues.

Pitt Meadows Community Choir

• Pitt Meadows Community Choir meets at the Pitt Meadows Heritage Church at the corner of Ford and Harris roads every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. Registration remains open until Feb. 8. No experience necessary. Info: Kirsteen McLean at 778-866-0871.

Bereavement

• Do you know a child who has experienced the death of a loved one? The Ridge Meadows Hospice Society is offering a six-week Children’s Bereavement Support Group. Info: 604-463-7722.

Hospice society

• Ridge Meadows Hospice Society requires visiting volunteers. Their next training session will begin in February. To register or to learn more about how to volunteer, call the society office at 604-463-7722 or visit their website at www.ridgemeadowshospicesociety.com.

Friday fun club

• The Maple Ridge Library holds a Friday Fun Club with reading, stories, contests, crafts, and prizes for children in grades 1 to 3. It will take place form May 4 to May 25 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Register at the second-floor information desk at 604-467-7417.

Seniors Variety Plus

• The Maple Ridge Seniors Variety Plus is conducting a membership drive. Anyone interested in being part of a musical comedy group is welcome to join – it’s not necessary to be a great singer, dancer, or actor. The seniors variety plus group put on shows twice a year at the Ridge Meadows Seniors Activity Centre. Info: Mae at 604-459-9709 or Gwen at 604-476-9306.