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MOVIE GUIDE

Tuesday, June 18, 2013 4:49:21 PM

What's On

The Times January 17, 2012

January 17

- A Spiritual Wellness Event takes place at 7 p.m. at Blenz Coffee at 224th Street and Dewdney Trunk Road. Come meet local wellness practioners in modalities such as reiki, mediumship, counselling, hypnotism, life coaching, and spiritual jewelry. Info: Darla at 604-803-2805.

January 17 to May

- 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, 12047 Harris Rd. (until the new library opens). 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.)

January 18

- The Golden Ears Gogos will hold its monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the Alouette Room of the Maple Ridge Library. This organization supports the Stephen Lewis Foundation which assists the grandmothers of Africa who are raising their AIDS-orphaned grandchildren. New members welcome.

January 18

- Maple Ridge Garden Club meets at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.) at Fraserview Community Centre, 22610 116th Ave. The speaker will be Les Raskewicz talking about his approach and techniques used in garden photography. Guest fee: $2. Info: 604-467-2956.

January 19

- Basic Budgeting: A Practical Approach is put on by the Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, Katzie Community Literacy Committee. Participants will examine what types of expenses they have and how to best set aside money to cover costs. This workshop gives some basic tools to help budget. The workshop, which takes place at 7 p.m. in the learning room at the CEED Centre, 11739 223rd St., is suitable for all ages. This event is free but space is limited and pre-registration is required. To register: email coordinator@communityliteracy.ca or call 604-466-8254 or 604-476-2447.

January 19

- Cinema Politica presents The Yes Men Fix The World, a film that highlights the pranks of two intrepid activists trying to change the way corporations do business. They combine political activism, performance art, and the love of a good prank in the name of demanding that the private sector take responsibility for the damage it has done to the world and its people. The film will be screened at Maple Ridge Municipal Hall, 11995 Haney Pl. from 7 ot 9 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Coffee and popcorn will be served.

January 19

- Ridge Meadows Hospice Thrift Store sale: 75 per cent of all clothing. Store hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday: noon to 4 p.m. Location: 3-12011 224th St. (behind Haney Sewing and Sound).

January 20 to June 8

- French Storytimes run Fridays at the Pitt Meadows Library, 12047 Harris Rd. (until the new library opens) from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. 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.

January 21

- Credit Cards: Your Enemy? Your Friend? is a workshop put on by the Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, Katzie Community Literacy Committee. This workshop will cover the essentials on how to use a credit card effectively while reaping the maximum benefits from them. It takes place at 2 p.m. at the Pitt Meadows Library, 12047 Harris Rd., Pitt Meadows. This event is free but space is limited and pre-registration is required. To register: email coordinator@communityliteracy.ca or call 604-466-8254 or 604-476-2447.

January 21

- The official re-opening of the Pitt Meadows Arena takes place from 10:30 a.m. to noon. There will also be a free skate in the evening from 6:45 to 8:15 p.m. Donations to the Friends In Need Food Bank will be accepted. The arena is at 11435 Bonson Rd.

January 22

- Alouette Field Naturalists travel to Port Moody for winter birding at Rocky Point. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at Harris Road and Dewdney Trunk Road to carpool. Info: Ken at 604-476-0105.

January 23

- Golden Ears Movie Series presents Midnight in Paris, directed by Woody Allen and rated PG. Allen's most beloved and commercially successful film in years stars a top-notch cast including Rachel McAdams, Kathy Bates, and Owen Wilson as an Allenesque writer whose night-time sojourns in the French capital magically transport him back to the 1920s where he meets such 20th century icons as Ernest Hemingway, Gertrude Stein, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Josephine Baker, and others. The movie is shown at The ACT at 7:30 p.m.

January 24

- The Chamber of Commerce serving Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows presents a free sales and marketing network event at the Buffalo Club Bar & Grill at 20690 Lougheed Hwy. from 5 to 8 p.m. There will be two guest speakers, free registration, and complimentary appetizers.RSVP to Carissa at 604-463-3366 or carrisa@ridgemeadowschamber.com.

January 24

- 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 the ACT in Maple Ridge.

January 24 to February 28

- World Film Nights run at the Maple Ridge Library on Tuesdays from Jan. 24 through Feb. 28 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. Info: Maple Ridge Library at 604-467-7417.

January 25

- Get ready for the Lantern Festival. The Maple Ridge Library will be offering a lantern-making workshop at 3:30 p.m. Learn how to make three different types of lanterns from recycled everyday materials. For Grades 5 and up. Info: Maple Ridge Library at 604-467-7417.

January 25

- The Haney Horse & Hound 4-H Club has its first meeting in the Fraser Room of the Maple Ridge Library, 6 to 7 p.m. This will be a drop-in information and registration meeting. Info: Kathy Smith, kathy.4h@gmail.com or 604-465-8436. All kids ages nine to 19 welcome to join.

January 26

- Maple Ridge Secondary School presents Parenting in a Cyber-Age at 7 p.m. at the school located at 21911 122nd Ave. Parenting has never been a simple job but with children and youth involved in online technologies at earlier and earlier ages, effectively parenting post-millennial children means keeping up with technology as well as the usual. The presentation is made by youth advocate Merlyn Horton, a youth advocate who had a background working with high-risk, street entrenched and sexually exploited youth for over fifteen years.

January 27

- Hominum Fraser Valley Chapter, an informal discussion and support group to help gay, bisexual, and questioning men with the challenges of being married, separated or single holds its monthly meeting. For information and meeting location, call Art 604-462-9813 or Don 604-329-9760.

January 27

- The Maple Ridge Library will be hosting a Family Literacy Day Fair at 3 p.m. Come to the library and enjoy fun fair games, and maybe win a prize. Test your throwing accuracy with our bean bag toss, challenge family members to a puzzle race, and try your luck in the magnetic fish pond. All ages welcome. Info: call the Maple Ridge Library at 604-467-7417.

January 27

- Family Literacy Day Celebration, put on by the Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, Katzie Community Literacy Committee. take place at the Maple Ridge Library, 130 22470 Dewdney Trunk Rd. from 3 to 4:30 p.m. There will be a carnival with popcorn and games. This event is free but space is limited and pre-registration is required. To register: email coordinator@communityliteracy.ca or call 604-466-8254 or 604-476-2447.

January 28

- The Friends In Need Food Bank celebrates the beginning of the Chinese Year of the Dragon with fundraising event. The event will be held at the Pitt Meadows Heritage Hall, 12460 Harris Rd. Doors open at 6 p.m. with a Chinese buffet dinner served at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person and include a Chinese dinner and an evening filled with live entertainment, live and silent auction, and much more. Special: $350 for a full table of 16. For tickets call Ineke at 604-467-2420 or Joanne at 604-466-3663. The food bank is urging everyone to buy tickets now as this event always sells out early.

January 28

- The Pitt Meadows Library is holding a book sale from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The library is located at 12047 Harris Rd.

January 28

- Laila Biali, Vancouver native, jazz singer, pianist, composer and arranger, the new face of contemporary jazz, performs original music as well as pop or rock music transcribed into a jazz format at The ACT at 8 p.m. While Biali's sound falls into "crossover" territory, she still retains the purity of ther traditional jazz roots while cleverly putting her own stamp on recognizable material, turning popular hits by Sarah McLachlan, Feist and others into sophisticated piano ballads. Tickets are available at The ACT, 11944 Haney Pl. For tickets, call 604-476-2787 or visit www.theactmapleridge.org, or visit The ACT ticket centre in person.

January 29

- Alouette Field Naturalists travel to Boundary Bay to see snowy owls. Meet at 9:30 a.m. in front of Tim Hortons, 100-20201 Lougheed Hwy. to carpool. Info: Michael at 604-467-9863.

January 29

- Hard Times Hit Parade, a theatrical performance set in a dance marathon in a world reminiscent of the1930's, chock-a-block with swing dance, cabaret, live music, puppetry and surprise, takes place at 2 p.m. at The ACT. There will be a free dance lesson after the performance. Tickets are available at The ACT, 11944 Haney Pl. For tickets, call 604-476-2787 or visit www.theactmapleridge.org, or visit The ACT ticket centre in person.

January 30

- Maple Ridge Health Unit is seeking new volunteers for the Buddy Up for Breastfeeding Program. As a volunteer, you would be providing telephone-email based support to new breastfeeding moms in our community, sharing your passion and experience on the benefits of breastfeeding. Training and ongoing support will be provided by public health nurses and staff. If you are interested and would like to apply or find out more information, contact Rhonda O'Grady by Jan. 30 at 604-466-7911 or by email at Rhonda.OGrady@fraserhealth.ca.

February 1

- Attention families living with attention deficit disorder and autism: each month, the Pitt Meadows Community Association in partnership with the Fraser Valley Autism Society hosts a local support group for parents, caregivers and stakeholders in its office space in Osprey Village. The meeting takes place on the first Wednesday of each month and is facilitated by long-time parent advocate Virginia Renaud, founder of the FVAS. These meetings are aimed at teaching behaviour management and parenting skills that are specific to families dealing with challenging behaviour. First time guests and members of PMCA or FVAS attend free. There's a $2 drop in fee for non-members. The meeting takes place from 7 to 9 p.m. The topic planned for this meeting is "special needs tax credit." The meeting is at the association office, 202-10958 Barnston View Rd. Advanced registration is not required, but RSVP is appreciated. Info: 604-465-5500.

February 4

- Ridge Meadows Hospital is holding a volunteer information session at 10 a.m. in the main floor conference room. Learn how to volunteer and give back to the community hospital. Info: 604-466-7911.

February 5

- Alouette Field Naturalists travel to Minnekada for winter birding. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at Harris Road and Dewdney Trunk Road to carpool. Info: Joan at 604-460-6415.

February 8

- What can you do to help your parents stay healthy mentally and physically as they age? Learn about the many resources available in our community from fitness and health support groups to free seniors wellness clinics at the Keeping Your Aging Parents Healthy - When and How to Help seminar, presented by the Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, Katzie, Seniors Network. The seminar takes place at the Maple Ridge Library from 7 to 9 p.m. This is the last in a series of six presentations in the Aging Gracefully Speaker Series.

February 9

- Alouette Field Naturalists hold their monthly meeting at 7:30 p.m. in the seniors' centre, 12150 224th St. All welcome. Info: Duanne at 604-463-8743.

February 9

- SFU Philosopher's Cafe has a discussion on democracy: Does democracy mean telling politicians, "Promise anything, but once you're elected, do what you want?" What system, if any, would be better? The discussion takes place in the lobby of The ACT, 11944 Haney Pl. at 7 p.m. The moderator is Larry Green, an artist and psychotherapist whose interests include philosophy, sculpture, and theatre. Info: 778-782-5215 or visit www.philosopherscafe.net. Everyone is welcome to this free event and registration and experience are not required.

February 12

- Alouette Field Naturalists travel to Iona to see shore birds. Meet at 9 a.m. at Harris Road and Dewdney Trunk Road to carpool. Info: Duanne at 604-463-8743.

February 12

- The Greater Vancouver Toy and Collectibles Show will be held at the Pitt Meadows Heritage Hall, 12460 Harris Rd. Early bird admission 9 a.m. $10, late bird admission $6 at 9:30 a.m. General admission 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. is $4. Kids 12 and under free admission and free hot wheels car. Everyone has a chance to win doorprizes. Info: www.ricktippe.com/toyshow.

February 14

- Whonnock Weavers and Spinners Guild will be meeting at Whonnock Lake Centre at 7:30 p.m. Visitors, guests, and new or potential members are welcome to join. Besides spinners and weavers, they welcome felters, knitters, basket makers, and anyone interested in any other fibre arts. Info: Marie at 604-462-9059.

February 14

- Ridge Meadows Seniors Society at Pitt Meadows will hold a Valentine's Tea at 1 p.m. in the seniors lounge at the Pitt Meadows Family Recreation Centre, 12027 Harris Rd. Tickets are $4 and are available in the lounge Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Info: 604-465-2478.

February 17

- The Meadowridge Knights Football Club is holding its annual general meeting at Thomas Haney Secondary, 23000 116th Ave. at 7 p.m.

February 17 to March 23

- A six-week workshop on chronic pain will be put on by the University of Victoria's Centre on Aging at the Ridge Meadows Seniors Activity Centre (in the craft room). These workshops are offered over six weeks on Friday afternoons from 1:30 to 4 p.m. and are free. Participants are asked to commit to all six sessions as these are not drop-in workshops. To register, call 604-940-1273 or email selfmanagement@eastlink.ca.

February 22

- The Ridge Meadows Seniors Society Health and Wellness Clinic presents Overview of Macular Degeneration, an informative seminar with speaker Dr. Alice Lennox of Maple Ridge Eye Care at 10 a.m. Free event. The seminar takes place at the Ridge Meadows Seniors Activity Centre, 12150 224th St. Refreshments provided. Register at 604-786 7404 or email: htreleaven@shaw.ca.

February 27

- Golden Ears Movie Series presents Starbuck, directed by Ken Scott (Canada, 2011) and rated 14A. The film is in French with English subtitles. David Wozniak (Patrick Huard) is a train wreck of a middle-aged man. David's loser-ish existence is up-ended when a lawyer informs him that he's fathered no less than 533 children via his one and only talent: donating sperm. He's also notified that over a hundred of his now young-adult offspring want to meet him. Winner of the Calgary International Film Festival People's Choice Award. The film is shown at The ACT at 7:30 p.m.

February 28

March 13

March 26

- Golden Ears Movie Series presents Billy Bishop Goes to War, directed by Barbara Willis-Sweete (Canada, 2011) and rated PG. The film is about a First World War flying ace Billy Bishop who was born in Owen Sound, Ont., grew up a fighter, and at fifteen built his first airplane out of cardboard, wood and string. At 17, he entered the Royal Military College of Canada, where he was deemed a "convicted liar, a cheat and the worst student - the bottom of the barrel." Nonetheless, he would soon reach the top of his military vocation. Over the course of the war, Bishop shot down 72 enemy planes, ultimately becoming the Royal Flying Corps' most honoured member. The film is shown at The ACT at 7:30 p.m.

March 27

April 10

April 24

May 8

May 29

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.

- The Maple Ridge Festival of Light Society is planning for the February lantern celebration which in the past has featured local dance and music groups, a poetry contest, hands-on lantern making, and a parade in Memorial Peace Park. To get involved, contact Sammy Nelligan at 604-467-4806 or rg674806@telus.net.

- 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 non-coaching swimming volunteers. 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.

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

- Grumpy Grandmas' social group has an overflowing activity list for January. 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. 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. 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

- 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, please 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

- The Maple Ridge Festival of Light Society is planning for the February 2012 lantern celebration which in the past has featured local dance and music groups, a poetry contest, hands-on lantern making, and a parade in Memorial Peace Park. To get involved, contact Sammy Nelligan at 604-467-4806 or rg674806@telus.net.

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 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the lobby of The ACT. 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: http://www.facebook.com/goldenearswriters (they encourage writers to RSVP but it is not required), andrea@walkerparkmedia.com, or call Katherine at 604-467-7198.

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.

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 first and third Mondays of each month from 7 to 8:30 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 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.

Libraries

January 9 to May 24

- 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.

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.

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.

Grumpy Grandmas

Arts

- 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

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, 12047 Harris Rd. (until new library opens). 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, 12047 Harris Rd. (until new library opens) from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. 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.