October 25

• Cinema Politica present Bevel Up: Drugs, Users and Outreach Nursing. This award-winning film chronicles the work of the BC Centre of Disease Control (BCCDC) street nurses as they provide compassionate, effective – and non-judgmental – health care to men and women in Vancouver’s inner city. Harm reduction is the cornerstone of the Street Nurse Program, which was awarded the Provincial Health Officer’s Award for Excellence for “best nursing practices and an organizational commitment to patient care and harm reduction practices for some of British Columbia’s most marginalized individuals.” Special guests are Ann Livingston and David Murray of (Vancouver Area Network Drug Users) and Dave Diewit (End Prohibition Now). Due to the subject matter this film may not be suitable for a younger audience, parental guidance is requested. The movie will be shown at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.) at Maple Ridge municipal hall, 11995 Haney Pl. Admission is free.

October 25 to 27

• Friends of the Library will be holding its annual fall book sale at the Maple Ridge Library. Support your library by purchasing some previously loved books for your winter reading. Book sale hours are Oct. 25 from 5 to 8:30 p.m., Oct. 26 from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and Oct. 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The sale takes place at the Maple Ridge Library #130-22470 Dewdney Trunk Rd. For more information, call 604-467-7417.

October 26 to 30

• Ghost Ridge brings thrills, chills, ghosts and goblins from 6 to 9 p.m. from Oct. 26 to 30 with a family-friendly tour from 5 to 6 p.m. on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for the folks that want to just see the sets with the lights turned on. The cost for the family-friendly tour is $4/person and the regular Ghost Ridge tour is $8. Maple Ridge Lions are holding a food concession to help with the fireworks costs. Fireworks, presented by the Lions, Maple Ridge Chrysler, and the Maple Ridge fire department, and the District of Maple Ridge will be at 7 p.m. on Oct. 30.

October 26

• Are you gay, bisexual or just not sure? Need a safe place to talk? Hominum Fraser Valley, 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.

October 26

• St. Patrick’s School hosts an All-Hallow’s Eve pub night at 6 p.m. at the Haney Public House, 22222 Lougheed Hwy., Maple Ridge. Tickets are $15 and include your choice of beef, chicken, or veggie burger, and a beer or glass of house wine. The evening will included 50-50 draw, toonie toss, and prizes. Costumes are encouraged. For tickets, call Frances 778-866-5871.

October 26

• Stacey Earle and Mark Stuart will perform at the St. Andrew’s Heritage Church Hall in Maple Ridge. To book a seat via credit card and/or PayPal from the link rocamusic.ca/house-concerts/.

October 26 & 27

• Ridge Meadows Hospice Thrift Store is holding a 50-per-cent-off storewide sale (select items may be excluded). The store is open from Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. The store is located at #3-12011 224th St. (behind Haney Sewing and Sound). Info: 604-463-7711.

October 27

• Family Education Centre is offering a new course “Exploring Separation” designed for couples considering or in the process of separation. The four-hour course is developed and presented by a certified facilitator and mediator in third-party intervention and will cover the following topics: communication, conflict resolution, legalities, goal-setting, expectations, children, establishing a new foundation for the relationships, finances, household issues, resources available in the community, and next steps. The course is not intended for couples to discuss or resolve the issues that brought them to considering separation. A screening process for couples registering will take place prior to the course. It will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Family Education Centre, 22554 Lougheed Hwy. To register, call 604-476-6055 or email reg@familyed.bc.ca.

October 27

• Fraserview Village holds a flea market, craft fair, and art sale/show from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the village hall (227th Street and 116th Avenue). Info: 604-463-2902.

October 27

• Marketgoers are invited to wear their costumes to the Haney Farmers Market and receive a prize. Paul Surridge Quartet entertains. Farmers have crisp delicious apples, pears, beets, squash, pumpkins, and more. This is the last day at Memorial Peace Park on 224th. Next week find us indoors and outdoors at the Golden Ears United Church (formerly St. Andrew’s Haney United Church) Two blocks West on Dewdney at 222nd Street. Nov. 3, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be a pancake breakfast from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Info: www.haneyfarmersmarket.org.

October 27

• Ridge Meadows Seniors Society is putting on a Halloween pub night from 7 to 10 p.m. in the lounge at the seniors centre, 12150 224th St. Entertainment will be by Suzanne and Roger. Tickets are $4 and will be available at the reception desk. Everyone is invited to wear a costume. No minors.

October 28

• The Maple Ridge Museum is holding Halloween at Haney House from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will crafts and treats – costumes are welcome. Haney House is at 11612 224th St.

October 28

• Alouette Field Naturalists will go to Blackie’s Spit to look for sea birds. They will meet at Harris Road and Dewdney Trunk Road at 9:30 a.m. Info: Ken at 604-463-0105.

October 28

• “New to You” fashion event fundraiser at noon will be held at the Maple Ridge branch of the Royal Canadian Legion to support the Ridge Meadows Hospice Society. Tickets just $19.50 for lunch, drink, and fashion show. Call 604-463-7722 or email kristina@ridgemeadowshospice.org for tickets. All proceeds go to palliative and bereavement programs.

October 28

• Museum After Dark at The Pitt Meadows Museum runs from 2 to 7 p.m. and offers spooky fun and games for the whole gang. Take their Mad Museum Look and Find, try experimental hot chocolate, make a glowing eyeball lantern, and visit with West Coast Paranormal Investigators in Pitt Meadows’ oldest and spookiest building. Admission is by donation; come in costume to receive your tricks and treats. Info: Jennifer or Leslie at 604-465-4322 or email the museum at PittMeadowsMuseum@telus.net

October 29

• The Golden Ears Movie Series (GEMS) at The ACT present Salmon Fishing on the Yemen starring Ewan McGregor and Emily Blunt. A fisheries expert is approached by a consultant to help realize a sheik’s vision of bringing the sport of fly-fishing to the desert and embarks on an upstream journey of faith and fish to prove the impossible possible. GEMS is presented in cooperation with Film Circuit, a division of the Toronto International Film Festival that promotes Canadian and international cinema in communities across Canada. Single tickets are $11, three-film packages are $27, and the full six-movie season is $50. The films are at 7:30 on the main stage at The ACT. The other films are: Monsieur Lazhar (Nov. 26), The Kid with a Bike (Jan. 28), Edwin Boyd: Citizen Gangster (Feb. 25), The Iron Lady (March 25).

October 30

• The Ridge Meadows Autism Information and Support group welcomes MLA Michael Sather to provide information on his role in supporting children and families in our community. There will be an opportunity to book one-on-one follow up appointments with him as needed. The group meets from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Ridge Meadows Association for Community Living, 11641 224th St. Sather will be at the meeting from 7 to 8 p.m. For more info or to RSVP: Tracy.Hewgill@rmacl.org or 604-467-8700 ext. 119.

October 30

• Maple Ridge Library presents Monsieur Lazhar (Canada, 2012) as part of its World Film Series. The films are shown every Tuesday until Nov. 20 at 6 p.m. Bring some friends and spend a relaxing evening at the library with a must-see film. The Friends of the Library will sell refreshments at intermission.

October 30 & 31

• Ridge Meadows Hospice Thrift Store is holding a Halloween blow-out sale – all remaining Halloween merchandise will be 50 cents. Store hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. The thriftstore is at #3-12011 224th St. (behind Haney Sewing & Sound). Info: 604-463-7711.

October 31

• Dewdney Animal Hospital is putting on a kids safe Halloween event from 4 to 6 p.m. Join the staff and animals at Dewdney Animal Hospital at 11965 228th St. for a fun tour through the clinic including the reptile petting zoo. Kids get to help the doctors fix a teddy bear that ate a few too many Halloween treats. This free event will have hot chocolate and Halloween treats for the kids. Reservations required as space is limited.

November 1

• Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows Caregivers Support Group – Parkinson’s Society B.C. meets from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a support group for caregivers, family, and friends of people with Parkinson’s disease. Info: call or email Elinor Verkerk at 604-467 -2768 or jdverkerk@shaw.ca.

November 2

• The Maple Ridge Christmas Parade Society is putting on a fundraiser concert, the Benefit Celtic Concert from 8 to 10 p.m. at Burnett Fellowship Church, 20639 123rd Ave. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $10 apiece and all proceeds go to pay for the free parade that takes place Dec. 1. Info: www.mapleridgechristmas.ca.

November 2

• St. Patrick’S Parish in Maple Ridge presents Mozart’s Requiem in D Minor by the Handel Choir and Orchestra, conducted by Johan Louwersheimer. The concert is at 8 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Parish, 22561 121st Ave., Maple Ridge. Tickets are $20 or $15 for seniors and students. Contact St. Patrick’s Parish for more information and tickets at 604-463-7148.

November 3

• The Lower Mainland Green Team is removing ivy and periwinkle at Kanaka Creek Regional Park in Maple Ridge from 9:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event takes place rain or shine – no experience necessary. Tools, gloves, and refreshments will be provided. To sign-up and for more info please visit: http://www.meetup.com/The-Lower-Mainland-Green-Team/events/75035442/ Info: lowermainlandgreenteam@gmail.com.

November 3

• Join the Haney Farmers Market from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Golden Ears United Church (formerly St. Andrew’s Haney United Church) at Dewdney Trunk Road and 222nd Street for the autumn market. Lots of vendors, inside and outside. There will be a pancake breakfast from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Give a Haney Farmers Market Gift Certificate for Christmas. Info: www.haneyfarmersmarket.org or 604-467-7433.

November 4

• Alouette Field Naturalists are going to Cliff Falls Park. They meet at Lougheed Highway and 228th Avenue at 9:30 a.m. Info: Alison at 604-463-3902.

November 6

• Maple Ridge Library presents Life, Above All (South Africa, 2010) as part of its World Film Series. The films are shown every Tuesday until Nov. 20 at 6 p.m. Bring some friends and spend a relaxing evening at the library with a must-see film. The Friends of the Library will sell refreshments at intermission.

November 6

• The next meeting of the Garibaldi Art Club is at 7 p.m. in the Craft Room, third floor, at The ACT. Members will be discussing plans for the fall show, which takes place from Nov. 16 to 18. Bring an item for the gift baskets that will be raffled at the show. Deadline for fall show registration forms is Nov. 6. A G.A.C. membership is $50 and $40 for seniors. New members are welcome. Info:www.GaribaldiArtClub.com.

November 6

• Coquitlam Prostate Cancer Support and Awareness Group invited people from Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows experiencing prostate problems to its monthly meeting at 7 p.m. in the Coquitlam Pinetree Community Centre. All those involved with prostate problems are encouraged to come and share their concerns and experiences in a strictly confidential atmosphere. There is no charge (donations are accepted). Info: Norm at 604-936-8703 or Ken at 604-936-2998.

November 6 & 8

• The Craft Ladies will hold a fall craft sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Ridge Meadows Seniors Activity Centre, 12150 224th St. There will be handmade fall and Christmas crafts.

November 8

• Alouette Field Naturalists meet at the Ridge Meadows Activity Seniors Centre, 12150 224th St. at 7:30 p.m. Info: Duanne at 604-463-8743.

November 8

• The SFU Philosophers’ Cafe meets at The ACT, 11944 Haney Pl. at 7 p.m. This month’s topic: “Can an objective morality exist without a God?” Moderator will be Larry Green. This event is co-sponsored by the Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows Art Council. Everyone welcome. Registration and experience are not required.

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.

November 11

• Dal Richards and the Dal Richards Orchestra will be at The ACT on Remembrance Day. Tickets can be bought by calling 604-476-2787, by going to www.theactmapleridge.org, or by going to the box office at The ACT in person.

November 13

• Whonnock Weavers and Spinners Guild meet at Whonnock Lake Centre at 7:30 p.m. They encourage visitors, guests, and new or potential members to join them. Besides spinners and weavers, they welcome felters, knitters, basketmakers, and anyone interested in any other fibre arts. Info: Marie at 604-462-9059.

November 13

• Maple Ridge Library presents Lagaan, Part 1 (India, 2001) as part of its World Film Series. The films are shown every Tuesday until Nov. 20 at 6 p.m. Bring some friends and spend a relaxing evening at the library with a must-see film. The Friends of the Library will sell refreshments at intermission.

November 14

• Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows Parkinson’s Support Group meets from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Ridge Meadows Seniors Activity Centre, 12150 224th St. This meeting is open to all persons with Parkinson’s, their caregivers, families, and friends. Info: Peta Purdy at 604-463-1332 or rpcoco@telus.net.

November 17

• Harry Hooge Elementary is holding a Christmas craft fair with more than 50 vendors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The school is located at 12280 230th St. in Maple Ridge. Admission is by donation. Info: www.harryhooge.sd42.ca (see the PAC tab).

November 20

• Maple Ridge Library presents Lagaan, Part 2 (India, 2001) as part of its World Film Series. Bring some friends and spend a relaxing evening at the library with a must-see film. The Friends of the Library will sell refreshments at intermission.

November 20

• Golden Ears Writers Club holds its monthly lobby night at The ACT from 7 to 9 p.m. This month author Cathy Ace will talk about mystery writer. The lobby nights are free for any writers aged 18 and older. Info: Katherine at 604-467-7198 or facebook.com/goldenearswriters.

November 25

• The Maple Ridge Archery Club is holding a Turkey Shoot from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Beef Barn at the Albion Fairgrounds at 105th Avenue and Lougheed Highway. com. There will be a concession and door prizes. Info: mapleridgearchery@gmail.

November 26

• The Golden Ears Movie Series (GEMS) at The ACT present Monsieur Lazhar starring Mohamed Felleg, Sophie Nélisse, and Émilien Néron. At a Montréal public grade school, an Algerian immigrant is hired to replace a popular teacher who committed suicide in her classroom. While helping his students deal with their grief, his own recent loss is revealed. GEMS is presented in cooperation with Film Circuit, a division of the Toronto International Film Festival that promotes Canadian and international cinema in communities across Canada. Single tickets are $11, three-film packages are $27, and the full six-movie season is $50. The films are at 7:30 on the main stage at The ACT. The other films are: The Kid with a Bike (Jan. 28), Edwin Boyd: Citizen Gangster (Feb. 25), The Iron Lady (March 25).

November 27

• Ridge Meadows Autism Information and Support group welcomes Perry Bateson of Yuen’s Family Martial Arts to provide information on bully-proofing your special needs child. The group meets from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Ridge Meadows Association for Community Living. Bateson will be at the meeting from 7 to 8 p.m. For more information or to RSVP: Tracy.Hewgill@rmacl.org or 604-467-8700 ext. 119.

December 13

• SFU Philosophers’ Cafe meets at The ACT, 11944 Haney Pl. at 7 p.m. This month’s topic: “What is mental health anyway? Bad brain chemistry, genetic predisposition, personal choice?” Moderator will be Larry Green. This event is co-sponsored by the Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows Arts Council. Everyone is welcome. Registration and experience are not required.

December 18

• Golden Ears Writers Club holds its monthly lobby night at The ACT from 7 to 9 p.m. This month blogger Andrea Walker will talk about demystifying blogging. The lobby nights are free for any writers aged 18 and older. Info: Katherine at 604-467-7198 or facebook.com/goldenearswriters.

January 28

• The Golden Ears Movie Series (GEMS) at The ACT present The Kid with a Bike starring Thomas Doret, Cécile de France, Jérémie Renier. Abandoned by his father, a young boy is left in a state-run youth farm. In a random act of kindness, the town hairdresser agrees to foster him on weekends. GEMS is presented in cooperation with Film Circuit, a division of the Toronto International Film Festival that promotes Canadian and international cinema in communities across Canada. Single tickets are $11, three-film packages are $27, and the full six-movie season is $50. The films are at 7:30 on the main stage at The ACT. The other films are: Edwin Boyd: Citizen Gangster (Feb. 25), The Iron Lady (March 25).

February 25

• The Golden Ears Movie Series (GEMS) at The ACT present Edwin Boyd: Citizen Gangster starring Scott Speedman, Kelly Reilly, and Kevin Durand.Second World War vet Eddie Boyd is torn between providing for his young family and an unfulfilled dream of becoming a Hollywood star. He discovers a way to do both, but his dream leads him down a path of danger and tragedy. GEMS is presented in cooperation with Film Circuit, a division of the Toronto International Film Festival that promotes Canadian and international cinema in communities across Canada. Single tickets are $11, three-film packages are $27, and the full six-movie season is $50. The films are at 7:30 on the main stage at The ACT. The last film in the series is The Iron Lady (March 25).

March 25

• The Golden Ears Movie Series (GEMS) at The ACT presents The Iron Lady starring Meryl Streep, Jim Broadbent, and Richard E. Grant. An elderly Margaret Thatcher talks to the imagined presence of her recently deceased husband as she struggles to come to terms with his death while scenes from her past life, from girlhood to British prime minister, intervene.. GEMS is presented in cooperation with Film Circuit, a division of the Toronto International Film Festival that promotes Canadian and international cinema in communities across Canada. Single tickets are $11, three-film packages are $27, and the full six-movie season is $50. The film is at 7:30 on the main stage at The ACT.

Volunteers

• 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 needs 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 their website at www.options.bc.ca and follow the link for the crisis line.

• Volunteers are 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

• 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

• Golden Ears Thrift holds a thrift sale every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with household items, clothing, and jewelry. 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 who have lots of laughs. Their monthly meeting takes place the first Friday of every month. Info: Maureen at 604-476-9794 or Sue at 604-459-8089.

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 & 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 (TOPS) meets at 7 p.m. every Wednesday at the Pitt Meadows Heritage Hall, 12460 Harris Road, Pitt Meadows. Don’t hesitate to call for information. Info: Rena at 604-460-1398 or Eloise at 604-465-7316.

Groups

• Singles walking group 45-plus, Happy Wanderers, meets Saturdays at 9:15 a.m. at Pitt Meadows Heritage Hall on Lougheed Highway, Pitt Meadows. Leave at 9:30 a.m. and walk in various areas and along trails on 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 audiwence 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 as they were during the 1930s. The open house runs from 1 to 4 p.m. at the museum, 22520 116th Ave.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

Japanese language school

• Maple Ridge Japanese Language School is now accepting registration for new students. To ensure small class sizes, limited space is available. Classes are taught by Japanese teachers and include language skills – reading, writing, and speaking – and cultural activities like origami and games. Classes are held 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 or Karen at 604-465-0612.

Family Games Night

• Pitt Meadows Library hosts family game nights every Wednesday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. There will be a variety of board games set up for everyone to use and some light refreshments. Bring board games to share. The new library is at #200-12099 Harris Rd.

World film series

• World Films series begins at the Maple Ridge Public Library and runs Tuesdays, Oct. 9 through Nov. 20 starting at 6 p.m. Bring your friends and spend a relaxing evening at the library with a must-see film. The Friends of the Library will sell refreshments at intermission. N.B. There is no film on Oct. 16.

Tri-Hard Walkers

• The Tri-Hard Walkers is a walking group that meets at Haney Place Mall at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for an outside walk. This group is for men and women of all ages and abilities who would like to meet new friends and enjoy the benefits of regular walking. It’s a fun and simple way to participate in regular physical activity and improve your health. The group is sponsored by the Heart and Stroke Foundation and there is a $10 annual membership fee. Info: Beverley 467-9407 or meet them inside the mall near Kin’s Market and Purdys at 8:20 a.m.

Volunteers needed

• The North Fraser Therapeutic Riding Association is now preparing for their fall 2012 horseback riding program. They need volunteers to come forward to help groom and tack their horses and to lead or side walk with riders during their lesson. Horse experience is great but not required. This is the place for anyone who enjoys the outdoors, working with wonderful people of all abilities, and loves animals. A volunteer orientation session will be held on Sept. 9 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. The fall session began on Sept. 17.