Events

Attendees will learn how to get started, what to buy (regarding size), temperature control, lighting and ventilation. Chennault will discuss yard placement, supplies, what to plant and when, and alternatives to a greenhouse.

The free class is sponsored by the WSU Extension Master Gardeners.

For details, call Gary Fredricks at 360-577-3014, ext. 3.

Join nonprofit, get free trees

Everyone who joins the nonprofit Arbor Day Foundation by the end of January will receive 10 free flowering trees as part of the foundation’s Trees for America campaign.

The trees include two Sargent crab apples, three American red buds, two Washington hawthorns and three white flowering dogwoods.

The 6- to 12-inch trees will be shipped postpaid at the right time for planting, between Feb. 1 and May 31. They are guaranteed to grow or they will be replaced free of charge, states a press release from the foundation. Planting instructions are enclosed with each shipment of trees.

To receive the free trees, send a $10 membership contribution to Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Ave., Nebraska City, NE 68410, by Jan. 31 or visit arborday.org/january.

Donate blood to Red Cross

Several American Red Cross Blood Drives take place locally.

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Anyone who is at least 17 years old, weighs at least 110 pounds and is in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.

Cathlamet: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 13, Wahkiakum High School, 500 South Third St.

Longview: 1-6 p.m. Feb. 1, 8 and 15, and 1:30-6:30 p.m. Jan. 31, YMCA of Southwest Washington, 766 15th Ave.; 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Longview Stake), 900 11th Ave., Longview.

Public invited to SON events

Sons of Norway members are holding several events open to the public this week. The lodge is at 224 Catlin St., Kelso.

Wednesday, Feb. 1: 6-8 p.m. free Norwegian language class; beginners and experienced welcome; break for coffee and snacks.

Thursday, Feb. 2: 1:30 p.m. event planning meeting for the coming year; bring ideas for cultural and heritage events.

Friday, Feb. 3: 5 p.m. potluck, 6 p.m. general meeting and installation of 2017 officers; officers and members asked to wear Norwegian sweaters or bunads.

Saturday, Feb. 4: 8:30-10:30 a.m. Norwegian Waffle and Swedish Pancake Breakfast; menu includes Norse Waffles, Swedish pancakes, ham, scrambled eggs, coffee and juice; $7 per person. Butik will be open with Scandinavian gifts, lefse-making supplies, children's books, pickled herring, two- and four-pound packages of raw lutefisk and lefse.

Other: members are asked to bring a dish to the lodge at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 3, and 9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, for the 3 p.m. memorial reception for lodge member Alan Hood.

Attend a free talk

Author Jack Nisbet will discuss naturalist David Douglas’ multiple trips to the mouth of the Columbia River in his free Salty Talks presentation, “I Do Not Go Alone: Traveling from Young’s Bay to Gray’s Harbor with David Douglas, 1825-27.”

Author of a 2010 biography on Douglas titled “The Collector,” Nisbet will explore how Douglas’ natural history observations and long-lasting relationships with locals have persisted through time, according to a press release.

The event takes place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1, at the Salt Hotel and Pub, 147 Howerton Ave., Ilwaco.

Salty Talk presentations are in partnership with the Salt Pub and Hotel, Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission and the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park with support from Friends of Columbia River Gateway and the Port of Ilwaco.

For details, call the Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum at 360-642-3446 or send an email to pr@cphm-ilwaco.org.

CNA training starts soon

A state-approved Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Bridge Program for Home Care Aids and Medical Assistants who want to obtain certification starts Wednesday, Feb. 1.

The training includes classroom instruction, skills training and five hours of clinical experience.

Students will need to take and pass the state CNA Certification Test to receive certification. Enrollees must have up-to-date Certified Home Care Aid certification from Washington state.

Graduates can work in nursing homes, Home Care and Home Health, Hospice care, hospitals and in-home disabled care. CNA training is required for many nursing schools.

To find out the time of training and to learn more about career opportunities, tuition, schedules and job placement services, call Care Careers Academy at 360-636-4045.

Zandi retires from TRCS

An English-style tea party to celebrate Debra Zandi’s retirement from Three Rivers Christian School takes place from 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1, in the Fireside Room at Northlake Baptist Church, 2610 Ocean Beach Highway, Longview.

People who know her are invited to stop by, say goodbye and wish her a happy birthday.

Learn about will planning

Castle Rock attorney Chris Roubicek will discuss the importance of having a will at a free seminar starting at noon Thursday, Feb. 2, in Room 300 of the Cowlitz County Administration Building, 207 Fourth Ave. N., Kelso.

A will is a legal document that allows individuals, not the Washington Legislature, to determine who their estates will go to, notes a press release from program sponsor, the Washington State University Extension Office. Wills are necessary for people with stepchildren, children younger than age 25, or a child or children with disabilities as well as people with no children.

For details contact Gary Fredricks at 360-577-3014, ext. 3 or garyf@wsu.edu.

Fibre retirees meet Feb. 2

Cindy Wright of the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisory Group is the guest speaker at the 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, meeting of the Western Federation of Retirees Local 3 (Longview Fibre Retirees) in the AWPPW Hall, 724 15th Ave, Longview.

All Fibre retirees are welcome.

Seminar on memory loss

A four-week seminar designed for people with early stage memory loss and their care partners takes place from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Thursdays, Feb. 2-23, at the Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities of Southwest Washington, 1338 Commerce Ave., Suite 309, Longview.

Registration for the seminar, “Staying Connected,” and a pre-screening are required.

To sign up and learn about qualifications for the seminar, call 360-577-4929.

Learn how to raise mason bees

Friday, Feb. 3, is the deadline to register for Raising Mason Bees.

Washington State University Master Gardener Billie Bevers will discuss skills needed for raising mason bees at 9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, at the Cowlitz County Training Center, 1942 First Ave., Longview.

Orchard mason bees are non-aggressive, highly effective pollinators that become active in early spring when apple and pear trees begin flowering, states a press release from the Washington State University Extension office. Equipment, seasonal management, bee biology and management of pests will be covered in the class.

The cost is $30 per person. Participants will receive a mason bee house and cocoons of hibernating mason bees at the class sponsored by the WSU Extension.

Each class is limited to 30 people.

For details or to register, call Lisa Huckleberry at 360-577-3014, extension 0, or send an email to huckleberryl@co.cowlitz.wa.us.

Get info on how to find work

The Longview Public Library is partnering with WorkSource to provide people instructions and help for navigating the internet in search of work.

Classes will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. the first Saturday of each month starting Feb. 4 in the Marion J. Otteraen (MJO) Room of the library, 1600 Louisiana St., Kelso.

Attendees will learn how to set up an account on WorkSource’s new web page, explore the resume creation software and gain access to other tools to help find a job.

One-on-one help will be available on a first-come, first served basis from 1 to 3 p.m. the third Saturday of each month.

For details and to sign up, call the library at 360-442-5300. To learn about the class and other library programs, visit longviewlibrary.org.

Free Foundations of Life Conference

A free Foundations of Life Conference on the origins of life takes place from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at Calvary Community Church, 2655 38th Ave., Longview.

The event will include exploring the complexities of the human body, investigating the realities of the Ice Age and evidence of archaeology.

On Feb. 4, children ages 5 to 11 are invited to experience the “IncrediWorld Amazement Park” in five sessions.

For details, the full schedule, and to register for free along with a chance to win a free resource table credit, visit www.FoundationsConference.org.

Sweetheart dinner, dance

The public is invited to a Sweetheart Dinner Dance fundraiser from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at the Rainier Senior Center, 48 W. 47th St., Rainier.

Chicken Cordon Bleu will be served for dinner. Ted Boursaw and His Country Band will perform. The cost is $15 per person.

Money raised will support the senior center's nutrition program.

For details, call the center at 503-556-3889.

Relay team raising funds

Members of the Crusaders Relay for Life team are holding a bingo fundraiser starting at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at the Longview Eagles, 1526 12th Ave., Longview.

Children 8 years old and older are welcome to the regular set of bingo at 1 p.m. Callers will be two people from the old Northern Lights Bingo.

A 50/50 drawing will be available, prizes will be awarded and the Eagles kitchen will be open to purchase food.

Money raised will go to the American Cancer Society.

Tea time in Toledo

A formal tea, "Spring Is Just Around the Corner" will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 5, at the Toledo Senior Center, 150 Coal St.

Tickets are $20 per person and may be obtained by calling 360-864-2112. Two cellists, Rachel Morris and Deanna Dibenedetto, will provide classical music entertainment. A silent auction also will be offered.

The dress code for participants is hats and dresses for ladies, and jackets and bow ties for gentlemen.

File taxes for free

Lower Columbia Community Action Program (CAP) and trained AARP tax aide volunteers will provide free tax assistance to filers of all ages and incomes through April 18 at two sites in Longview.

• Lower Columbia CAP, 1526 Commerce Ave.: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

• Longview Public Library, 1600 Louisiana St.: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

A Super Refund Saturday takes place at the library from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Feb. 4. Money management ans savings strategies will be available from local organizations, and refreshments will be served.

For people who want to self-file, can do so at www.myfreetaxes.com.

For people who need some assistance, the CAP computer lab is open from 9 a.m. to 3 pm.. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays in the CAP building, 1526 Commerce Ave., Longview.

For details on what to bring to file taxes, call or email Liz Myntti at CAP at 360-425-3430 or lizm@lowercolumbiacap.org.

Read and win prizes

The 2017 Fire It Up! adult winter reading program where adults can win prizes for reading begins soon at the Longview, Kelso, Kalama, Castle Rock and Woodland public libraries.

The six-week program started Jan. 20. It ends Feb. 28.

Anyone age 18 and older is eligible to participate. To enter, read or listen to a book, fill out an entry form for Fire It Up, take the entry form to the main desk at the Longview Public Library (1600 Louisiana St.) and reduce overdue fines by $5 per book.

Each library offers different weekly prizes. 

Participants also can win one of four grand prizes — a new Kindle Fire HD —  and do not need a library card to participate or win.

The program is made possible by the Longview Library Foundation, Friends of the Longview Library and Friends of the Library-Kalama (FOLK).

For details, call each local library — 360-442-5300, Longview; 360-423-8110, Kelso; 360-673-4568, Kalama; 360-274-6961, Castle Rock; and 360-225-2115, Woodland.

TDN wants kids’ weather pics

The Daily News is looking for weather drawings for the newspaper’s Weather Page. Drawings are welcome from school classes or individuals.

To submit a drawing, stop by the office at 770 11th Ave., Longview, and pick up a form; send a self-addressed and stamped envelope to Kids’ Weather, P.O. Box 189, Longview, WA 98632; or download a form from TDN.com at http://tinyurl.com/a6ame9w.

Free gospel meetings

The public is invited to gospel meetings at 4 p.m. Sundays at the Longview Woman's Club, 835 21st Ave., Longview.

Speakers are L. Wilkinson and H. Hansen.

No collection will be taken and donations will not be accepted.

For details, Call L. Wilkinson at 360-865-1346.

Library needs volunteers

Recently, the Longview Public Library received a large donation of material relating to the history of Longview for the library's Longview Room.

And now, volunteers are needed to sort through the loose papers and documents, newspapers and photos.

People who have a natural interest in and people who have knowledge of local history are encouraged to volunteer. Participants will be trained to identify materials that can be added to the library's collection.

To learn more or sign up, call Lisa at 360-442-5317 or stop by the library at 1600 Louisiana St., Longview.

Take a free sewing class

Two free workshops to sew a fleece hat or scarf take place at 2 and 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6, at the Kelso Public Library in the Three Rivers Mall, 351 Three Rivers Drive, Suite 1263, Kelso.

The supply list is at the library or online at www.kelso.gov/librar­y.

Space is limited. To register, call 360-423-8110.

Library has teen nights

Tuesdays are teen nights at the Longview Public Library, 1600 Louisiana St., Longview.

The free events are open to all middle and high school students. Snacks usually are served.

Teens can attend any event or all the events. Registration is not required and teens do not need a library card.

Teen Tuesdays take place from 6 to 7 p.m.

The schedule

Jan. 31: String Art.

Feb. 7: Fuse Beads.

Feb. 14: Coffee Candles.

Feb. 21: Slogan Shirts (bring own shirt).

Feb. 28: Escape Room.

March 7: Shrinky Dinks.

Screenings for children

Free child screening services for 3- to 5-year-olds who have not yet entered kindergarten take place for residents in the Kelso School District on Wednesday, Feb. 8, at Catlin Elementary School, 404 Long Ave., Kelso.

Children will be screened in hearing, vision, speech/language, social/emotional, life skills, concepts and motor skills. Results are confidential.

Appointments are required.

For details or to make an appointment, call 360-501-1904.

Free dental screenings

A free dental clinic screening for low-income veterans and their dependent children on medical coupons takes place from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, at the Salvation Army, 1639 10th Ave., Longview.

To be eligible, veterans must live in Cowlitz or Wahkiakum counties and have an income based on the National Poverty Guidelines.

The event is being sponsored by Community Health Partners of Longview.

After the screening and checkup, dental care will be provided by the University of Washington Community Dental Clinic (Dental School students) at the Kaiser Permenente Dental Clinic in Longview.

Referrals for restorative dental care by the UW Dental School at Kaiser Permanente will be determined at the scheduled exam and could be set up for a later date depending on what is available the day of the clinic.

For details, eligibility requirements and to schedule an appointment, call 360-274-9178 or 360-261-2780.

A reminder call will be placed the day before the clinic. People who are unable to make their scheduled appointments are asked to call 360-274-9178 so someone from the waiting list can be contacted to attend instead.

Join Teen Book Club

A Teen Book Club sponsored by the Longview Public Library and the Highlands Community Center is held the first Friday of each month at the center, 292 21st Ave., Longview (next to Archie Anderson Park).

The club is free and open to middle and high school students.

A different book genre or theme is discussed each month with free books and pizza provided by the Longview Library foundation.

Comic books will be discussed Feb. 3, books that have been made into movies are the topic of the March 3 discussion and fantasy books will be discussed April 7.

Books can be picked up at the next meeting or by contacting Becky at the lower floor desk of the library, 1600 Louisiana St., Longview; by calling her at 360-442-5323 or be emailing her at becky.standal@ci.longview.wa.us.

Fun for kids at the library

Free stories, classes and more to keep children busy through the winter months are offered at the Longview Public Library, 1600 Louisiana St., Longview.

Participants do not need a library card. Registration is only required for the monthly MakerPlace Book Club.

For details on the weekly programs below that run through March 10, call 360-442-5301, or visit longviewlibrary.org.

• Mother Goose Time: 10:30-11 a.m. Wednesdays; for babies up to 24 months old.

• Toddler Time Stories and Crafts: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Fridays; for 2- to 3-year-olds.

• Preschool Stories and Crafts: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Thursdays; for 3-year-olds and older.

• Fun Hours: 10 a.m.-noon Mondays and Tuesdays; open playtime for 0 to 5-year-olds.

• MakerPlace: drop in 3-5 p.m. Wednesdays; for students in elementary school grades.

• MakerPlace Book Club: 3-5 p.m. fourth Mondays; for readers in third through fifth grades; sign up at the lower floor of the library to get a copy of the book.

• LongCon: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 25; for all ages.

For middle/high school students only

• Rainbow Community Diversity Youth Group: 3-5 p.m. Mondays.

• Teen Tuesdays: 6-7:30 p.m.

• Highlands Teen Book Club: 4 p.m. first Fridays at Highlands Community Center, 292 21st Ave., Longview.

• Teen Writing Group: 3-4:30 p.m. third Fridays.

Free yoga, stretching classes in Ilwaco

Free yoga and stretching classes are offered at 12:10 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at RiversZen Yoga Studio, 177 Howerton Way, Ilwaco.

The classes are perfect for the raw beginner, yet challenging enough for advanced yogis, according to a press release.

In addition, free classes are offered at 12:10 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at the RiversZen Yoga Studio in Astoria at 399 31st St. A third free class, Qigong Walking and Forms, has been added at 7:30 a.m. Mondays at the Astoria studio with instructor Donna Quinn.

Sign up for ‘date night’

Community members are invited to take part in a ‘date night’ from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Feb. 10 and April 14. 

The cost of the event is $25 per person and includes a one-hour introductory yoga class at Holos Yoga Studio, 1338 Commerce Ave., No. 109, Longview. After that, there will be a wine tasting accompanied by wood-fired specialty pizza at Roland Winery, 1106 Florida St., Longview.

Registration is accepted weekdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Longview Parks and Recreation office, 2920 Douglas St., Longview; or online at www.mylongview.com/reconline.

For details, call 360-442-5400.

Apply for free raised garden bed

Community members interested in possibly receiving a free raised garden bed at their home can submit an application for the opportunity to get one.

The Home VEG (Vegetable Educational Garden) program began in 2012 to promote vegetable gardening in Cowlitz County

Ten people will be selected to have a 4- by 8-foot raised bed built for them that includes soil and seeds.

Applications can be downloaded at http://extension.wsu.edu/cowlitz/mg/raised-bed-giveaway/

Applications also can be acquired by contacting Gary Fredricks at 360-577-3014, ext. 3, or garyf@wsu.edu.

Applications are due Feb. 15 for the program sponsored by the Washington State University Master Gardeners of Cowlitz County.

Join book discussions

The American Association of University Women book discussion groups will meet at 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, and at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21.

Both groups will meet in the Blue Room at Canterbury Park, 1335 Third Ave., Longview; and will discuss "Daughters of the Samurai: A Journey from East to West and Back," by Janice Nimra. The book follows five young girls in 1871 who are sent by the Japanese government to the U.S. to learn western ways, then return to Japan to nurture a new generation of enlightened men to lead the country, according to a press release.

For details on the afternoon group, call 360-636-2092. For details on the evening group, call 360-636-2433.

Anyone interested in the books or in AAUW is welcome.

AAUW is a nationwide organization that advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research, states a press release. A college degree is not a requirement to join the Cowlitz County branch.

Have fun at CR Senior Center

Anyone age 55 or older is invited to join the Castle Rock Senior Center.

A lifetime membership is $5. Activities, newsletters, friendship and more are offered. The center is at 222 Second Ave. S.W.

Several activities are planned for February.

• Every Monday: 10 a.m.-noon, cinnamon rolls and coffee served to the public; suggested donation $1.50.

• Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday: 9:30-10:30 a.m., exercise class.

• First and third Tuesday: 1-3 p.m., "Write Your Life Story" class.

• Every Wednesday: noon, senior nutrition meals offered by CAP, suggested donation is $3, call 360-636-2118 by Monday each week for reservations; 1-3 p.m., paper tole classes.

• Every Thursday: noon-3 p.m., quilting; 7 p.m., pinochle.

• Every Friday: noon lunch by reservation only; call 360-274-7502.

• Every Saturday: 1-3 p.m., bingo games.

• Feb. 14: 11 a.m. Castle Rock undersheriff Mark Gilchrist will discuss scams; noon potluck lunch.

• Feb. 15: 10 a.m.-1 p.m., commodities distributed; must have valid punch card.

Fill up with crab, oysters

Seatings for the 32nd Annual Wahkiakum Chamber of Commerce Crab and Oyster Feed are set for 3 p.m., 5:15 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, at the Norse Hall on Puget Island, 144 State Highway 409, Cathlamet.

All seating times are for people 21 years old and older because beer and wine will be served. All seating is reserved. Organizers suggest people buy their tickets early.

The cost is $32 per person. Tickets are available at the Bank of the Pacific, 56 Main St., Cathlamet. Raffle tickets for more than 50 prizes provided by local businesses will be sold.

Attendees are asked to bring their own crab-cracking tools and condiments. Alcohol cannot be brought onto the premises. In addition to the crab and oysters, baked beans, coleslaw, potato salad and fresh bread will be served.

Money raised will benefit the Bald Eagle Days event sponsored by the Chamber, and the fireworks show, a 35-year Wahkiakum County traditional celebration held the third weekend in July, according to a press release from the Chamber.

For details or to donate raffle prizes, stop by the Chamber at 102 Main St.; call 360-795-9996 or email wchamber@cni.net.

Nominations

are needed

Feb. 20 is the deadline to submit nominations for the Kalama Chamber of Commerce's Citizen of the Year and annual Totem award.

The Citizen of the Year award honors a person who contributes to the community, while the Totem Award recognizes an outstanding business or organization.

To make a nomination, call the Chamber at 360-673-6299 or Shirley Lowman at 360-673-4071.

The Chamber of Commerce dinner will be held at 7 p.m. March 25 in the Kalama Community Building, 216 Elm St., Kalama.

Volunteer at train depot

Members of the Kelso-Longview Train Depot Board invite people age 21 and older to become depot volunteers.

Depot volunteers greet the public and answer questions for a range of travelers from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. daily at the depot at 501 S. First Ave., Kelso.

Three four-hour shifts are available each day. Volunteers can choose the shift that best fits their schedules and decide how often to volunteer.

Applications, which include a background check, are available at the depot.

For details or to request an application to be sent by mail, email kltdvolunteers@yahoo.com or call Ron Baker at 360-423-6015.

Project Read tutors needed

Volunteer tutors are being sought for the adult literacy program, Project READ.

Program coordinators are seeking people who can commit to one hour twice a week during regular Longview Public Library hours — 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Wednesdays and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays — to help other adults improve their literacy skills.

Coordinators can work around each volunteer's schedule. Volunteers are asked to make a six-month commitment, but are welcome to make a longer commitment.

Volunteer tutors are matched with adult learners to work one-on-one in the library.

The literacy coordinator provides resources, direction, tutor training and ongoing support.

Training is on the computer and is self-paced at home or in the library.

For details or to sign up, call Elizabeth Partridge at 360-442-5321.

Help needed with vets' memorial

Members of the Longview Veterans Memorial Committee are raising money for two granite memorials honoring local veterans that will be placed in R.A. Long Park in Longview.

Donations may be submitted to Maria at the nonprofit Cowlitz Veterans Service Center at 1005 Fir St., Longview.

Gary Plumb of Lower Columbia Monument will engrave the vets' names on the monuments.

The committee's goal is to have the monuments in place for a Memorial Day 2017 dedication.

Sign up for

flea market 

The Annual Flea Market and Bingo hosted by the Kalama Fair committee takes place Friday and Saturday, Feb. 24 and 25, at the Kalama Community Building, Second and Elm streets, Kalama.

Vendor applications are available for booth space, commissioned sales and donations to the Kalama Fair.

The festivities include a pancake breakfast, a homemade soup lunch, a bake sale, a style show and Blue Ribbon Handmade Pies.

Space is limited. Applications can be downloaded from kalamafair.com (click on Forms at the top of the page) or by requesting an application via email to kalamafair@gmail.com.

For details, call Shelley Hickman at 360-673-2994.

Mark calendar for dad/daughter ball

For Woodland’s 13th Annual Father/Daughter Ball in 2017, dads and their daughters can choose one of two time slots to attend.

The event takes place from 3 to 5 p.m. and from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at Woodland High School, 1500 Dike Access Road, Woodland.

The ball features dancing, light refreshments, free chances to win door prizes and mementos to take home.

The cost is $5 per father and $5 per daughter.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. They go on sale Feb. 1 in the photo department at Hi-School Pharmacy, 1365 Lewis River Road.

Organizers note in a press release that an exact number of people is needed to plan refreshments and for capacity limits. The tickets are for a specific time slot and are not transferable from one time to another.

The ball is a nonprofit community service event sponsored by Grace Community Church in Woodland. Volunteers from the church help staff the events.

For details, call the church at 360-225-4484 or visit the church website at woodlandgrace.com.

Help students raise money

Rainier Junior/Senior High School Chapter of Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society students are raising money for their group.

To help the students, place a Schwan’s order at schwans-cares.com/c/28079.

For details, call Andrew Demko at 503-556-4215.

Help Emergency Support Shelter

October is Domestic Violence Action month and the local Emergency Support Shelter is offering ways the public can help the nonprofit shelter.

First is the Stand Up Campaign where the public can “stand up in honor of someone you love” by visiting http://www.esshelter.com/stand-up-campaign.html and making a donation.

The shelter also sells purple cancer awareness products, T-shirts and bracelets at http://www.esshelter.com/store/c1/Featured_Products.html.

Reps needed in exchange program

Area representatives are being sought through the ASSE International Student Exchange Programs to recruit and screen prospective host families, interview students to study abroad and supervise exchange students in their communities.

The representatives are compensated based on the number of students they supervise.

High school students from around the world can participate in academic year and semester exchange programs in the United States. Before the students can travel to the U.S., they pass a series of academic and character requirements.

For details about the ASSE program or on how to become an area representative, call the western regional office at 1-800-733-2773 or email asseusawest@asse.com.

Buy magazines, help Rainier teens

An online magazine fundraiser is being held to benefit the Rainier Junior Senior High School History Bowl Team and the History Club.

To support the History Club, visit http://www.efundraising.com/RainierHistoryClub1111#.V_0BmvkrK1s.

To support the History Bowl Team, visit http://www.efundraising.com/RainierHistoryBowlTeam#.V_2XXOArKM8.

For details, contact RJSHS History Club club adviser Andrew Demko at 503-556-4215 or at andrew_demko@rsd.k12.or.us.

FISH needs volunteers

FISH of Cowlitz County needs telephone volunteers for three-hour shifts once or twice a month.

Volunteers can work from home to help people who need food, medications, dental care and other necessities.

For details, call Bob Theriault at 360-431-2937.

Donate Capri Sun pouches

Rainier Junior/Senior History Club members are collecting Capri Sun juice pouches to recycle in an effort to support the club's activities and events.

For details, contact History Club adviser Andrew Demko at 503-556-4215 or andrew_demko@rsd.k12.or.us.

Lay counseling sessions available

New clients are being accepted during November at the Lay Counseling Clinic.

Ten free one-hour sessions with a trained counselor under the supervision of a licensed clinical psychologist will be provided. Appointments are available for individuals and couples.

To set up an appointment, call Elizabeth at 360-577-1059 or 360-423-6380.

The counseling center is in the basement of Longview Community Church, 2323 Washington Way.

Group seeks food bank donations

Members of the Rainier Junior/Senior High School chapter of the the RHO Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society are collecting donations for the HOPE food bank in Rainier.

Anyone who would like to help is asked to contact club adviser Andrew Demko at 503-556-4215.

Buy items, help Rainier teens

An online fundraiser is being held to benefit the Rainier Junior Senior High School History Bowl Team.

More than 1,500 items are available with 40 percent of every purchase going to the History Bowl Team.

To participate, visit http://www.efundraising.com/RainierHistoryBowlTeam#.WBj5i_krK1s.

For details, email RJSHS History Bowl Team adviser Andrew Demko at andrew_demko@rsd.k12.or.us.

Apply for free meals

Free and reduced-price meals are available to students in need at all local public schools through several national programs administered by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).

The application process for participation in school meal programs is simple and confidential, according to a press release. Application packets are sent home with students at the beginning of the school year. Households with income levels below certain thresholds are encouraged to apply for any, or all, of the programs. The application packet provides instructions and directions on where the application should be sent.

Applications will be reviewed and a determination made within 10 operating days of receipt of the application, notes the press release. Households denied eligibility can appeal the decision by contacting their school.

Applications can be submitted any time during the school year. Households that experience a change in income due to job loss or other circumstances are encouraged to apply.

Students receiving help through Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or the Basic Food Program — as well as all other students in the same household — automatically qualify for free meals, states the release.

The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) provides OSPI with a list of children who receive these services to facilitate automatic eligibility. Households notified of their children’s eligibility must contact the school if choosing to decline the free meal benefits.

Foster children also are eligible for free meal benefits. Children placed in foster care by DSHS are included in the list provided to OSPI. In households where foster children reside, all other students in the household may be eligible for free or reduced price meals based on household size and income, according to the press release. In these situations, households may submit an application.

Homeless and migrant students, households taking part in Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations and students in Head Start and Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program are eligible for free meals. For details, contact the child’s school.

Eligibility lasts from the date of approval up to the first 30 operating days of the next school year or until a family contacts the school or district.

Households needing help with application materials in languages other than English should contact their school.

There will be no discrimination against limited English speaking households in the school meal programs, states the press release.

Free program for youths

Free life skills and drug and alcohol prevention workshops are being offered through

Cowlitz Tribal Health & Human Services for native and non-native young people ages 9 to 17 years. The program is called "Healing of the Canoe."

According to a press release, the program is a "great opportunity for youth to gain life skills and prevention methods infused with culturally relevant activities while engaging with age-appropriate peers."

At intake, participants must provide proof of age.

For details or to register, call Christina Hilts at 360-575-3316 or email her at chilts.health@cowlitz.org.

Volunteers sought in Columbia County

Community Home Health & Hospice seeks volunteers in Columbia County.

On-line training is offered that is augmented with hands-on training and skills review, according to a press release from the organization.

In addition, every three months in-services are offered in areas that may be of interest or benefit to volunteers.

A good hospice volunteer possesses a calm and comforting demeanor, is attentive, has active listening skills, is warm and friendly, is empathetic and understands the need to maintain boundaries.

Anyone interested in volunteering is asked to contact volunteer coordinator Sheryl Reeder at sheryl.reeder@chhh.org or 360-414-5433 or 800-378-8510.

LCC seeks host families

Host families for international students attending Lower Columbia College are needed.

Students range in age from 16 to 20 years old. They come from a variety of countries. 

Short-term to year-long hosting opportunities are available. A $500 monthly stipend will be provided to all families hosting a student for a quarter or longer.

Host families must be able to provide a private, furnished bedroom; daily meals; and transportation help to and from campus.

For details, contact the Lower Columbia College International Programs at international@lowercolumbia.edu or 360-414-2310.

Get help with OHP insurance

People in Columbia County applying for health insurance through the Oregon Health Plan can get help from the Public Health Foundation of Columbia County.

Individuals are available to help weekly in Rainier, St. Helens, Scappoose and Vernonia. To schedule an appointment, call 503-397-4651, ext. 2005 or 971-203-3995.

Once an appointment is scheduled, people should bring the following information: the Social Security number and date of birth of everyone in the household who will be on the application; employer and income information for everyone in the household (even if they are not applying for coverage); verification of income, including pay stubs, tax statements, profit and loss statements if self-employed, or a letter showing proof of no income; if people on the application have health insurance, the plan name and policy numbers are needed.

For details, call Patricia Ortiz at the above phone numbers or email portiz@tphfcc.org.

Reserve seats now for tribal mask performances

Reservations are being accepted for Living History performances at the Lelooska Foundation and Cultural Center, 165 Merwin Village Road, Ariel.

The presentations start at 7 p.m. May 6 and 22, and last approximately two hours. They consist of dramatic narration and dance presentations of traditional Northwest coast ceremonial masks, according to a press release.

Chief Tsungani and the Lelooska family dancers bring each mask to life with its song, dance and story, notes the press release.

The grounds open at 5:30 p.m, including the Lelooska Museum.

The cost is $12 per adult and $8 per child age 12 and younger. Reservations are required.

To reserve tickets, call 360-225-9522, email info@lelooska.org or send checks and a self-addressed and stamped envelope to Lelooska Foundation and Cultural Center, P.O., Box 526, Ariel, WA 98603. Payments also can be made online at www.lelooska.org.

Help sponsor Rainier Revisited

Sponsors are needed for the Eighth Annual Rainier Revisited Living History Re-Enactment set for Saturday, April 8 in Rainier.

A $20 donation will get a person, organization or business name listed as a sponsor for the event. Club members also are looking for a sponsor for history club T-shirts. Anyone who would like to help the club is asked to contact History Club adviser Andrew Demko at andrew_demko@rsd.k12.or.us.

Arc offers free support, services

Free support and services are available through the Arc of Cowlitz County/Life Works.

For details on any of the services listed, call Lacey Cairns at 360-425-5494 or email laceycairns@lifeworkswa.org.

Consultations and case management with families and individuals who need support and services; Parent to Parent Program; respite services for families who qualify after completing a respite consultation and screening, IEP and 504 School Support and Advocacy Services; help with DDA (Developmental Disabilities Administration, Social Security Administration and navigating other related community and state services; guidance with guardianship; Monday Wake-Up for families with children from birth to age 5; life skills classes at Lower Columbia College on Thursdays; People First; and lending library and resources.

Save the date for quilt show

Clatskanie Quilt Show committee members have set the date for the group's annual quilt show. The show takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday, June 23 and 24, in the ballroom of the Clatskanie Cultural Center (the restored IOOF building), 75 S. Nehalem St., Suite B, Clatskanie.

Quilters are invited to enter their quilts. A country store, raffle and demonstrations will be featured. A portion of the money raised will go to the Clatskanie Senior Center.

In the meantime, the Quilt Show committee recently presented a check for $1,000 to the Clatskanie Senior Center as a "way of giving back to our community," states a press release.

For details or to sign up to enter a quilt, send an email to clatskaniequiltshow@wildblue.net.

— The Daily News