Community Datebook: Week of March 10

Yoga is every Tuesday at 1 p.m. and Friday at 10:30 a.m.

Strength and balance training every Wednesday at 10 a.m.

Armchair Aerobics is held every Monday at 10 a.m.

Gourmet Weight Wise every Thursday at 12:30.

Fitness Center and Pool Room open daily 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

The Diabetes Center will offer day and evening classes each month. insurance pays for diabetes education classes. Preregistration is required. Call 610-270-2301.

The Ambler Area YMCA has added several new programs for area youngsters. Classes are held late afternoons or evenings on various weekdays. For more information, visit philaymca.org or call 215-628-9950.

Basic Beading: Ages: 10+. Wednesdays 7 to 7:45 p.m. This class will teach you the fundamentals of wiring and stringing along with how color can be used to create unique and vibrant beadwork design. You will create various jewelry including earrings, bracelets, charm pendants and much more! Supplies will be provided. Bringing your own jewelry pliers or tools would be a plus.

Messin’ with the Masters:Ages: 8-12. Thursdays 7 to7:45 p.m. Learn about some of the world’s greatest artists. You will be inspired to create your own “Starry Night” with oil pastels and tempera paints, a tissue paper painted Monet garden, a Picasso head using scraps of paper, a Georgia O’Keeffe clay flower bowl and a Rousseau jungle collage.

Super Scientist: Ages: 5-7. Mondays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. We’ll be concocting chemistry experiments such as making slime, mixing potions and having fun with magnet magic. Your budding tiny scientist will enhance his/her creative thinking and motor skills and to top it off will learn that science can be serious fun.

Wacky Junk Art: Ages: 8-12. Thursdays 6 to 6:45 p.m. Why throw it away! Instead join us to make household junk into aliens from outer space, wacky specs, crazy hats, body masks or a recycled train.

Globe Trotters: Ages: 4-6. Tuesdays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. You’re never too young to start thinking globally. Each week, we explore a new country through crafts, games, music, stories and even some taste-testing. A perfect introduction to our great huge world!

Crazy about Crafts: Ages: 5-7, Thursdays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Let your child’s creative juices flow with our fun arts and crafts projects each week. Fine motor skills and creative thinking skills will be enhanced with this crafty class.

Matt Paul Basketball is hosting a free Three-on-Three Basketball Tournament for girls in middle school March 12th from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Springside School in Chestnut Hill. Girls are invited to join the spirit of March Madness and enjoy competitive games in a fun and exciting atmosphere. The tournament begins with a one-hour drills clinic, which is followed by three-on-three games and a 3-point shooting competition. A pizza party ends the fun event. Players can register as individuals, or they can make up their own teams. For more information or to register for the tournament, visit mpbb.net.

Did you know that the new Ambler Area YMCA holds children’s birthday parties at its site for members and non members as well. The Ambler Y does all the work from start to finish and birthday parties include a personalized cake, ice cream, beverage and paper products. Parties are held on Saturday and Sunday afternoons and include two party hosts to lead activities, set-up, clean-up and assist with serving. You can have a Splash Party for kids ages six to 12 in the new zero depth entry pool with water slide and spray fountains. Up to 25 kids have exclusive use of the pool area with 30 minutes in the party room. Sports Parties are offered for kids ages four to 12 with age appropriate activities and games, and sports such as floor hockey, soccer, basketball or dodge ball. Children ages three to five years of age will enjoy parties in the Family Active Center with use of the Moon Bounce and organized activities, such as parachute play and songs. For information, 215-628-9950 ext. 1583.

Community Events at the Ambler Y:

-YAchievers YMCA Achievers is a developmentally based, extracurricular, educational and team mentoring program designed to help students in grades five through 12 prepare for fulfilled livelihoods in college and beyond. Participation is free and all students in this program receive a free YMCA membership. Registration for the 2009 program begins now. You do not need to be a YMCA member to utilize these special services. Call 215-628-9950 to register.

Greater Norristown Art League’s Children’s Weeklong Summer Art Camps will be held at 800 West Germantown Pike in East Norriton, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday throughout the summer. The cost per session is $125 per student for ages 6 and up. Jo Ann Cooksey Bono teaches an introduction to basic drawing skills and techniques from 10 a.m. until the lunch break each day. In the afternoon sessions, Mary Vogel Lozinak involves the students in “hands on” projects such as collage, papermaking, T-shirt printing, 3D design and sculpy clay. Friday’s “Graduation Day” includes an art show, awards ceremony and reception for parents, siblings, grandparents and friends. All supplies are included. Students provide their own lunch. A refrigerator is available and the building is air-conditioned. This is the 15th year to run this successful program. Both instructors are professional artists with State Police and Child Abuse Clearances. To register, call Jo Ann at 610-279-1008, or register online at www.gnal.org.

The Dental Hygiene Clinic at Montgomery County Community College will hold a free sealant program for kids ages 6 to 14 March 31 from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Space is limited, and examinations are by appointment only on a first-come, first-serve basis. For information and appointments, call 215-641-6483. The Dental Hygiene Clinic is located in Science Center room 211 at the College’s Central Campus, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell.

Fleet Feet Sports is offering “No Boundaries,” a 12-week training program for beginners hoping to run or walk their first 5K race. The purpose of the program is to introduce participants to the lifetime fitness activities of running and walking and to encourage them to live healthier lifestyles. No Boundaries will offer participants guidance and advice from experienced coaches, weekly group training runs or walks and educational clinics on topics such as proper nutrition, choosing the right gear and avoiding injury, all within a fun and supportive environment. The program will culminate with The Ambler Area Summer Solstice 5K on June 15, a goal which participants will work towards throughout the program. New Balance is sponsoring the program along with Fleet Feet and will provide each participant with a moisture-wicking shirt and jacket. A $75 registration fee will cover all aspects of the program. No Boundaries will start March 26, and the group will meet every Tuesday evening and Saturday morning for 12 weeks. After the Saturday morning workout, educational seminars will be offered from local professionals: Apex Physical Therapy, Fasttwictch Training, Nutrion in Motion and Whole Foods. An informational session will be held at Fleet Feet Sports, 1210 Bethlehem Pike, North Wales on March 10 and 15 at 7 p.m. and March 19 at 9 a.m.

Following the success of other local area programs, Impact Sports and Upper Dublin Parks and Recreation are delighted to team up again to offer a spring program for the 2011 season! Upper Dublin area kids ages 3-5 years old can attend a Sports Program featuring their favorite sports games; soccer, rugby, hockey, track and field, basketball, and more. The program will start on April 27 and run through June 1. Cost for the program is $85 for the six weeks. The classes will be running 12– 1 p.m.; 1- 2 p.m.; 2- 3 p.m. For more info or to register, call Upper Dublin Township on 215 643 1600 or visit their website a http://www.upperdublin.net/ .

Spring Aquatic Programs – UDHS Pool:

-Summer is just around the corner – Community Aquatic Programs at the UDHS Pool can help get you into shape! Programs start in March; preregistration is required.

- Shallow Water Aerobics – Two 5-week programs, Wednesday nights, 8-8:45 p.m., $40R/$50NR.

- Adult Swim Instructions – Two 5-week programs, Wednesday nights, 7-8 p.m., $50R/$60NR

-Need a summer job? Get certified as an American Red Cross Lifeguard! Two courses are offered at the UDHS Pool that will finish before Memorial Day. Pre-registration is required.

- Mondays, March 14-May 23 (10 weeks), 7-10 p.m., $300R/$325NR

- Tuesdays (7-10 p.m.) & Saturdays (1-4 p.m.), March 15/19 – April 12/16, $300R/$325NR

-Open Rec Swims are fun for the whole family! Come out on Fridays from 7-9 p.m. or Saturdays from 1-4 p.m. and enjoy use of the pool and diving area. Fridays are offered through June 17; Saturdays are offered March 12-May 21.

-Join a growing group of adult lap swimmers and water walkers. Lanes are set aside evenings and weekends for use; lanes are shared. Monday – Thursday from 7:30-9:30 p.m.; Fridays from 7-9 p.m. and Saturdays (March 12-may 21) from 1-4 p.m.

-Private Swimming & Diving Lessons for ages 3-adult are offered at the UDHS Pool through a partnership with the Upper Dublin Aquatic Club (UDAC). Visit the UDAC website for more information, www.udac.us, and click the link to UDHS Private Lessons.

Rep. Kate Harper (R-Montgomery) is once again joining with Whitpain Township to sponsor a Blood Drive and Legislative Information Day on March 18, from noon to 6 p.m. at the Whitpain Township Building in Blue Bell. In addition to the blood drive, visitors to the Whitpain Township building can also get their blood pressure checked by the Second Alarmers Rescue Squad. Harper’s Blue Bell office staff will also be on hand with information about say government programs and services. Persons in good health can donate a unit of blood as often as every eight weeks. People age 17 and older are eligible to donate. Teens who are 16 years of age may do so with the written permission of their parents. To schedule an appointment to donate blood at Harper’s blood drive, call her office at 610-277-3230 or visit KateHarper.net and click on the “Blood Drive” button in the right column. The Whitpain Township Building is located at 960 Wentz Road in Blue Bell.

T’ai Chi and Chi Gong classes offered. T’ai Chi: Chinese exercise based on martial arts for health and fitness–improves balance, flexibility and stamina as you increase body awareness, release tensions and relax muscles and joints for better circulation and pain control. Chi Gong: Energy work: learn to improve quality of energy of the body. Classes are held in an authentic Japanese Dojo in Dresher. Classes will be held Tuesdays March 15 through May 17 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Call 215-572-9189 for more information.

SilverSneakers Fitness Program. The yways SilverSneakers Fitness Program is a result-oriented program that enables older adults to take charge of their health. The program is an innovative blend of physical activity, healthy lifestyle and socially oriented programing. Members of the program are eligible for a free YMCA membership, with use of the pool and exercise equipment, along with customized classes designed for older adults who want to improve their strength, flexibility, balance and endurance. If you are a subscriber to Independence Blue Cross (Personal Choice 65 PPO) or Keystone 65 HMO, Bravo , or Options Programs (HOP), call the Ambler Area YMCA, 215-628-9950 or Hatboro Area YMCA, 215-674-4545. You can also visit www.silversneakers.com.

Chestnut Hill Systems presents the following Programs:

Golden Yoga: A Breathing, Stretching and Relaxation Class. Fridays, 2:30-3:30 p.m. Lea Auditorium, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. Registration for four classes at a time required. Golden Yoga is Classical Yoga, adapted by the SKY Foundation, to accommodate those who have difficulty getting up and down from the floor. The program includes postures, breathing, relaxation and meditation techniques, all performed while sitting in a chair and standing. Registration required. Call 215-247-3029. Cost: $20 for 4 classes per month.

Weight Loss Surgery Support Group: Fourth Wednesday of the month, 7-8 p.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia. Join us for a monthly get-together where we’ll share information for those interested in weight loss surgery, learn from guest speakers discussing current news on issues including lifestyle modification, nutrition and exercise and provide on-going support for those who have finished surgery. Registration required. Call 215-753-2000.

Breast Cancer Networking Group: Fourth Tuesday of the month 5:30 – 7 p.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia. A free, confidential support group for women living with a diagnosis of breast cancer designed to provide a forum for sharing information, feelings and concerns associated with breast cancer. Facilitated by Tish Wakefield, LCSW, Oncology Social Worker. Registration required. To register or for more information, call 215-248-8047.

New Moms Support Groups Tuesdays 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.; contact Jeanine O’Rourke, MSW or 2:30 – 4 p.m.; contact Susan Schack, Ph.D Volunteer Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. The Center for Postpartum Depression at Chestnut Hill Hospital is pleased to offer two new support groups to support new moms. Both groups will be run by experienced mental health professionals who really “get it” when it comes to new motherhood and juggling relationships, extended family, work/family balance and self-care. If you are experiencing “new mother challenges” that often heighten anxiety and involve hormonally driven depression, join us for an informative and supportive forum to connect with other moms. Infants are welcome. $30 per session (flexible based on need). Registration is required. Call Dr. Schack, 646-265-2484, or Ms. O’Rourke, 215-206-2931.

Man to Man Prostate Cancer Support Group Third Thursday of the month 8-9 a.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. A networking group for men diagnosed with prostate cancer designed to provide education, support and encouragement. Spouses and partners welcome. Harry M. Baer, MD, Chief, Urology Division, will host “Ask the Doctor.” Registration required. Call 215-248-8325.

Upper Dublin Public Library, 805 Loch Alsh Avenue, Ft. Washington, 215-628-8744

STORYTIMES: Please register in the library.

Wee Ones: 0-23 Months. 10:30-10:50 a.m. March 10 or 11.

Tiny Tots: age 2. 10:30-10:50 a.m. March 9 or 11-11:20 a.m. March 11.

“I Can Read!” Book Club. 6:30-7:15 p.m. March 23. For new readers! Read “Little House On the Prarie” short chapter book by Wilder and come discuss it with us. Play some games too. Snacks too! For grades K to 2.

Teens-N-Tuesdays. 3:30-4:30 p.m. March 15. St. Patty Day Party! Relax at the library after school. Join us for movies, gaming and other activities. Snacks too!

North Hills Library Teens 4-4:30 p.m. March 24. St. Patty’s Day Party

Go & Chess Club! 1-4 p.m. March 13. Play chess and learn to play Go: the 4,000 yr old Chinese game. Fun for all ages! 2nd Sunday of every month. 1st hour is instruction followed by 1-on-1 play. Children ages 9 to 11. Must be with an adult.

NEW! ESL Conversation Group. 7-8 p.m. Tuesdays, March 15, 22 and 29 Interested in practicing your English in a safe and caring environment? Come to our conversation group and improve your skills! Every Tuesday. Please register with Kay Klocko at 215-628-8744 or kklocko@mclinc.org.

Civil War Program: 149 Years Later – Stonewall Jackson. 3-4 p.m. March 23. Dr. Arthur R. Jarvis of MCCC will discuss Jackson’s successful Shenandoah Valley Campaign on the 149th anniversary of this historic civil war event.

One-on-One Computer Mentoring. Get personalized assistance from experienced computer volunteers! Sign-up for a one-hour session. Limit onesession per month. Please register – contact info above.

Book Groups Please register with Kay Klocko, 215-628-8744.

Daytimers: March 17 at 1:30 p.m. Tired of book groups where you all read the same book? Read any fiction or non-fiction book on this month’s theme: “Philadelphia”. Please register.

Board of Directors: March 16 at 7 p.m.

Friends of UDPL: March 10 at 10:30 a.m.

Blue Bell Library www.wvpl.org Upcoming Events: The Wissahickon Valley Public Library, 650 Skippack Pike (Route 73) in Blue Bell, is diagonally across from the Blue Bell Inn. Call 215-643-1320 or visit their website at www.wvpl.org.

For kids and teens at Blue Bell:

* Story times with guitar music by Miss Michelle, the “singing librarian.”

·Mondays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages.

·Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. for all ages.

·Fridays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages.

* Family Movies, new releases, second Saturdays of the month at 1:30 p.m.

·March 12 – Cats & dogs, the Revenge of Kitty Galore

·April 9 – Shrek Forever After

·March 6 – 12, Teen Tech Week – watch for events

·March 13 at 2 p.m. – The Not-So-Scary Purim holiday event for 2- to 5-year-olds

·March 14 and 15 at 4:30 p.m. – Lego Club for ages 6 and up, register at library

·April – watch for date of spring/Easter events

·April 10 at 2 p.m. – The Passover Frog holiday event for 2 to 5-year-olds.

·April 29 – May 3, Giant Book Sale for Children and Adults during library hours

·May – sign up for Science in the Summer

·June – sign up for Enrichment Programs for Elementary-Age children

·June – sign up for Summer Reading, all ages

·Daytime Book Discussion Group – fourth Tuesday, Jan – April at 1:30 p.m.

oMarch 22 – Wait till Next Year by Doris Kearns Goodwin

oApril 26 – The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester

·Night-time Book Discussion Group – third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m.

oMarch 16 – *this is a Wed* Wait till Next Year by Doris Kearns Goodwin

oApril 19 – The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester

·Art Series with Dr. Sheldon Weintraub, docent at The Barnes and speaker at local colleges

oApril 5 at 2 p.m. “The Art of Looking at Art-from Mona Lisa to Picasso.”

oApril 27 at 2 p.m. “The Art of Looking at Art-Is She Nude or Is She Naked?”

·Tai Chi on Mondays at 3 p.m. with Dr. Kurt Findeisen

·Philadelphia Museum of Art presents class on their Marc Chagall exhibit, April 13 at 2 p.m.

·Giant Book Sale, April 29 – May 3

oStarts with nearly 10,000 items for kids and adults!

oPreview for members of the Friends of the Library, April 28 at 7 p.m.

oJoin the Friends and attend the preview sale. Modest fee to join.

·Blooms at Blue Bell Gardening Series

oMarch 23 at 1 p.m. – Container Gardens by PA Horticultural Society

oApril 5 at 6:30 p.m. – Tour Devon & Southwestern English Gardens

oMay 11 at 1 p.m. – Summer Bulbs by PA Horticultural Society

·Knitting every Wednesday at 11 a.m. New members welcome.

·Socrates Café discussion group every Monday at 7 p.m. You pick the topic to discuss each week. No sign-up, nothing to read.

·Bridge every Friday at 12:30 p.m. New players welcome.

·Mah Jong every Wednesday at 1 p.m. New players welcome.

·Ongoing like-new, year-round book sale for adults & kids during library hours

·Library opening at 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday!

Big Brothers Big Sisters Southeastern PA will host information sessions on how to become a Big Brother March 19 at 10 a.m., March 22 at 8 a.m. and March 31 at 6 p.m. All sessions will be held at the group’s office at 530 DeKalb St., Norristown. For more information, call 610-277-2200. Big Brothers Big Sisters Southeastern PA is the leading donor and volunteer supported one-to-one youth mentoring program in the state. Volunteer a few hours a month as a Big Brother mentor and improve the health, safety and growth of a boy in your community.

The Montgomery County Intermediate Unit invites parents, instructors and administrators to a meeting of the Montgomery County Right to Local Task Force March 15 at10 a.m. This meeting will be held at the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit, 1605 West Main St., Norristown. The primary purpose of the Local Task Force is to make recommendations that assist in improving, strengthening, expanding and monitoring programs and services for school age kids with special needs. The topic for this meeting will be Autism-Inclusion. For more information, visit www.mcltf23.org or call Debbie Conaway at 610-755-9443.

Stifel Nicolaus presents “It’s Not As Bad As You Think!” featuring Brian S. Wesbury, chief economist, First Trust Advisors, L.P., March 10 at 5:30 p.m. at Whitemarsh Valley Country Club. Brian is well known, respected and has appeared numerous times on CNBC and other media outlets. The Wall Street Journal ranked Mr. Wesbury the nation’s No. 1 U.S. economic forecaster in 2001, USA Today ranked him as one of the nation’s top 10 forecasters in 2004 and Speakers Platform named him a top five keynote speaker in 2011. Please RSVP by March 8 to Rachelle Mannato at 610-567-1931.

Turning Waste into Energy: Sustainable Waste Solutions will be presented March 24 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association at 12 Morris Road, Ambler. F. Scott Woodrow of Sustainable Waste Solutions, the region’s only landfill free waste and recycling company, will discuss say of the art recycling programs and environmentally friendly waste reduction. He will review handling solutions as an alternative to traditional landfill based programs. It will be a great opportunity to learn about novel ways to address waste reduction. For more information, call 215-646-8866 or e-mail info@wvwa.org.

LeTip, a professional organization of men and women who are dedicated to the highest standards of competence and service meets every Tuesday at Cedar Brook Country Club, 180 Penllyn Pike, Blue Bell at 7 a.m. –meeting officially starts at 7:16 a.m. and ends at 8:31 a.m. Our purpose is the exchange of business tips, leads, and referrals. Each business category is represented by one member and conflicts of interest are disallowed. Guests are welcome to visit any of our breakfast meetings.

The Eastern Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is an action-oriented organization dedicated to promoting its members and the economic health of eastern Montgomery county. The Chamber is committed to serving as a catalyst by uniting business, community agencies, government and education to make our county a great place to live and work. For information, call 215-887-5122 or visit www.emccc.org.

Do you have a fear of public speaking? Blue Bell Toastmasters Club can help. We meet from 7 – 9 p.m., on the second and fourth Tuesday at the Marriott Courtyard, located on Route 202, directly across from the Montgomeryville Mall. Learn how to improve communication and leadership skills in a friendly and supportive environment. Guests are welcome. Admission fee: $5. For more info, visit www.bbtoast.org.

-Breakfast News Network, 7:30-8:45 a.m. at Normandy Farm Hotel (1401 Morris Road, Blue Bell, PA 19422) $15 members, includes full buffet breakfast. Join us for a networking program at Normandy Farm Hotel every Thursday morning for breakfast, business news, informative speakers, and plenty of networking. The cost includes a full breakfast buffet. Copies of the business cards will be made available to those who would like them.

The BNI, Fort Washington Chapter meets every Monday at The Hilton Garden Inn, 520 Pennsylvania Ave., Fort Washington for a networking meeting. Meetings are from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. Visitors are welcome. The only cost to attend is the cost of your meal. For information or a reservation to attend, please call Luanne Cram at 215-947-7784, or visit our Internet site at: http://www.BNIDVR.Com and click on the menu item “Find a Chapter”.

For the past seven years, people have enjoyed participating in WVWA’s Adopt-a-Tree program. Individuals can support the Association in its reforestation efforts by purchasing native trees to be planted. Supporters can plant their adopted tree or have WVWA volunteers will plant it. Trees cost $30 each. If you would like to volunteer or buy a tree(s), please contact: Bob Adams at Bob@wvwa.org or call: 215-646-8866 for more information. Check www.WVWA.org for directions and maps.

Brandywine Assisted Living at Dresher Estates will host its annual purse party March 29 from 3 to 5 p.m. This fund-raising event will help local kids with cancer through the local foundation Kisses For Kyle. For more information or to RSVP, call Dresher Estates at 215-591-4000.

The Writers’ Club at Montgomery County Community College will hold a coffeehouse March 31 from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Barnes & Noble Campus Store, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. Writers and performers of all experience levels are encouraged to bring their poetry, fiction and songs. The event is free and is open to the community. For information, call the Campus Store at 215-641-6600.

The Or Hadash Dickstein Scholar in Residence Weekend 2011 with Ellen Bernstein will take place March 11 and 12 at Or Hadash: A Reconstructionist Congregation, 190 Camp Hill Road, Fort Washington. Bernstein – a writer, teacher, consultant and founder of Shomrei Adamah Keepers of the Earth – will discuss ecological topics from a faith perspective. Bernstein will present during Friday evening services; there will be an expanded Torah study session Shabbat morning, as well as a Shabbat B’Yachad. Saturday evening the film “Renewal” will be shown followed by a Q&A with Bernstein. All events are free and open to the public. For more information, call 215-283-0276 or visit orhadash.com.

Gwynedd-Mercy College will host its annual Alternative Break Bingo to support students’ service trips during spring break March 25. Each year, many GMC students forgo a relaxing spring break and instead travel to multiple cities to serve the underserved. This year, students will participate in various service activities in Cincinnati, Ohio, Baltimore and New York. Nursing students will also administer basic health care to sugar cane workers in the Dominican Republic during spring break. Bingo helps fund the students’ transportation and living costs during the week. Doors open at 6 p.m. and play begins at 7 p.m. in The Griffin Complex Gymnasium, located on campus. Participants may play prize bingo all night (until around 9:30 p.m.) for only $5. There will also be a basket raffle and refreshments. For more information, Contact Christine Eberle, director of Campus Ministry, at 215-641-5590 or eberle.c@gmc.edu.

The community is invited to attend an area Beef ‘n’ Beer, “Back the Backers,” March 25 from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus, 235 Limekiln Pike, Glenside. Tickets are $25 per person and include hot roast beef sandwiches and salads, beer, wine and soda. There will be dancing to music by DJ Eddie and many fun raffle items. Proceeds benefit an area family hit hard by these tough economic times. If you are unable to attend, donations are appreciated. For tickets, contact Regina Bocchino at 215-646-5179 or Maryellen Abell at215-628-3466.

A Dinner and Goods and Services Auction will be held March 26 at 6 p.m. at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 211 S. Main St., North Wales. The four-course sit-down dinner will feature appetizers, salad, a chicken entree, and dessert. A variety of goods ,services and mini-vacation deals will be up for auction. Cost is $10 per person. Reservations must be made by March 19. For tickets and reservations, call 610-584-6818.

The Burning for Learning Fort 5K will be held April 10 at the Upper Dublin High School stadium. The event’s proceeds will benefit the instructors and students of Fort Washington Elementary School. The event will feature a 5K run, a 1-mile walk/run and fun for the entire family. The professionally timed event will wind through Fort Washington, starting and ending at the Upper Dublin High School Cardinal Stadium. The 5K is a fast, mostly flat course, suitable for very experienced runners, as well as those new to running. Check-in begins at 7 a.m., and the race will take place at 9a,m. For those that prefer not to run the 5K, a 1 mile walk/run will take place on the stadium track, starting at 8:30 a.m. The 5K race fee is $20 per runner for those registered by March 22 and includes a shirt and goodie bag. The fee is $25 after that time and on race day, with a shirt and goodie bag while supplies last ($20 after shirts are gone). The Fun Walk/Run fee is $5 per walker, pre-registered, or $7 the day of the race, with a favor, while supplies last. For additional information, contact Christina Sacco at csacco@comcast.net or visit www.active.com and search for the Burning for Learning Fort 5K.

Lubavitch Montgomery County will be hosting a Wild West Purim Party at 4 p.m. March 20, at Maple Glen Elementary School, 1581 Fort Washington Ave., Maple Glen. Purim is on the way, so saddle up your party horse and celebrate this astonishing holiday at the wildest party the West has ever seen. Bring your cowboy hats, boots and spurs. Themed costumes get a prize at the door. The event will feature live music and kosher cowboy/cowgirl grub. Tickets costs $20 for adults, $12 for kids more than 3 and a maximum of $60 per family. To RSVP, call 215-591-9310 or e-mail info@jewishmc.com.

Annual Volunteer Day At Fort Washington State Park will be held April 9 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (or come when you can and leave when you must). Fort Washington State Park and The Friends of Fort Washington State Park are seeking volunteers to help with planting trees, trash cleanup, raking leaves, assembling picnic tables and other springtime projects. All you need to bring is a pair of garden or work gloves to make a huge difference in YOUR park. Volunteers of all ages are welcomed and appreciated. Nearly one-half of a million people visited Fort Washington State Park last year. It is with the assistance of volunteers like you that the park is able to maintain its natural beauty and the wonderful outdoor recreation opportunities it provides. Please join us in our efforts to improve the environment and getting the park ready for another enjoyable season. Meet near the observation deck in the Militia Hill area of the park. Refreshments and a picnic lunch will be provided. Rain date April 16 (only if we have heavy rain or snow). Questions? – Call Eric Ihlein, Park Manager, at 215-591-5250.

Pre-Dating comes to town for single professionals on March 24, at Hollies Lounge in The Holiday Inn Fort Washington, 432 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Fort Washington. Research shows that the chemistry between two people occurs within the first few minutes of meeting. With Pre-Dating you go on many dates in one evening. There’s no rejection and you can quickly determine who you would truly like to hear from again. Fort Washington singles pay just $20.00 to attend this Pre-Dating event. For more information and to register, visit www.Pre-Dating.com. Online registration is required.

The Montgomery County Chapter of the Pennsylvania Association of School Retirees will hold a Philadelphia Eagles Fan Tour March 29 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The cost for the tour and lunch is $47. For more information, call 215-362-6530.

Begin your holiday shopping at Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation! Entertainment books for 2011, Philadelphia North, are now on sale at $30 each. Regal/United Artists motion picture tickets are on sale for just $7.50 each, and tickets to the Adventure Aquarium, Baltimore Aquarium, and the Philadelphia Zoo are also available. Discounted ski vouchers to area mountains will be arriving in December; call 215-643-1600 x3443 for more information. Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

RSVP of Montgomery County and the Wissahickon Valley Public Library have partnered again to offer the public their popular free mock interview sessions. The mock interviews are conducted by RSVP volunteers who are retired professionals, some of whom were in hiring positions themselves. Packets of information which include a sample employment application and interviewing tips with mock interview questions are available at the library to pick up prior to a scheduled mock interview or will be sent via e-mail once the interview is scheduled. To schedule your interview, please contact Janis Glusman at RSVP 610-834-1040, ext. 16. The library is also offering a free résumé review service. Bring in your current résumé and the professional reference staff will assist you with hints and tips on capturing your work history accurately.

Regal motion picture tickets available for buy at Upper Dublin Township Parks & Recreation. Reduced rate: $7.50 per ticket. Some restrictions apply. Call 215-643-1600 x3443.

Whitpain Township Parks & Recreation motion picture tickets $7.50 Regal Cinemas, United Artist & Edwards Cinemas on sale throughout the year Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation offers exciting new programs for the fall:

The late medieval musical duo Asteria will present a workshop on “Music of the 15th Century — European Courts” at Montgomery County Community College March 21 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The presentation will be held in the Science Center Theater, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell, and will be simulcast to South Hall 216 at the College’s West Campus, 101 College Drive Pottstown. The event is free and is open to the public. In addition to a live performance, participants will view slides from medieval musical manuscripts, learn secrets used to decipher the ancient notations and hear the differences between a chanson and a motet. Attendees will also learn about the Medieval and Renaissance traditions of courtly love that gave rise to the Arthurian legends and many of the romantic clichés of the medieval period.

The Tea and Symphony Chamber Music Series will be held in the grand center hall of The Highlands, an 18th-century Georgian Mansion, March 13. The concert will be held from 2 to 4p.m., with Premium Estate Teas to be served by Jaya Teas during the intermission. The performance will showcase world-renowned student performers from The Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. Seating for this very popular event is limited and advance reservations are required. Ticket prices are $20 for members and $25 for non-members. The Highlands is located at the intersection of Sheaff Lane and Skippack Pike (Route 73) in Fort Washington. On-site parking is free. For reservations and detailed program information, please call The Highlands at 215-641-2687.

Or Hadash will host Purim festivities, service and spiel March 19 at 6:30 p.m. in the sanctuary of Or Hadash, 190 Camp Hill Road, Fort Washington. The event will include a Purim costume parade, Megillah reading, the annual Purim spiel written and produced by Or Hadashers and Hamantaschen. All are encouraged to come in costume, adults as well as children! There will be prizes for ideal costumes.

The Staircase Gallery at Or Hadash: A Reconstructionist Congregation in Fort Washington will feature the work of Emily Ennuat-Lustine. The artist will be showing paintings and graphics inspired by her own personal spiritual journey and quest for meaning. Some of the works to be shown have been inspired by Biblical Psalms and writings. Her work has been shown at Abington Art Center, Cheltenham Arts Center and Old City Gallery of Jewish Art among others. The exhibition is open Friday evenings starting Feb. 18 after Shabbat services. Gallery hours are: Mondays through Thursdays 10-4:30, Fridays 10-3 and following Shabbat Services and Sundays 10-1. The synagogue is located at

The Special Advisory Council and the School District of Upper Dublin will present “Strategies for the ADD/ADHA Learner” March 21 at 7 p.m. at the Upper Dublin Township building, 801 Loch Alsh Ave., Fort Washington. The guest speaker is Adam DeAngelo, M. Ed, a special education instructor and a private special education consultant for families and children. He has worked with families in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware providing guidance, feedback and effective recommendations for implementing strength-based special education programming and creative solutions to ensure success. For more information, contact Karen Salomon, SPEAC parent representative, at ksal@comcast.net or at 215-646-3638.

Montgomery County Community College will hold two open houses to provide prospective students and the community with information about the College’s credit and non-credit programs. The open houses are free of charge and are open to the public. Individuals who pre-register online will receive a free gift. To register, visit mc3.edu/openhouse or call 215-641-6671. The Central Campus open house will take place March 26 from 10 a.m. to noon in the Fine Arts Center, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The event is being held in conjunction with the Montgomery County Wellness Expo from 9 a.m. to noon in the College’s Physical Center. The West Campus open house will be held April 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. in North Hall, 16 High St., Pottstown. The event will provide specialized information for non-traditional and visiting students in addition to general information about the College.

Montgomery County Community College will host presentations as part of its Crime and Justice Lecture Series from 6 to 8 p.m. April 12 and April 13 at the Central Campus and April 11 at the West Campus. The presentations are free and are open to the public. The College’s Criminal Justice & Fire Science Club is sponsoring the series, during which students and the community will learn about a variety of crime and justice issues directly from professionals in the field. Topics, presenters and locations for the series are:

• April 11 – “Domestic Violence,“ presenter TBA (West Campus)

• April 12 – “Sexting,” presented by Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office (Central Campus)

• April 13 – “Criminal Profiling: Hunting Serial Killers and Psychopaths,” presented by criminal profiler/consultant Pat Brown (Central Campus)

Presentations at the Central Campus will take place in Science Center room 214, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. Presentations at the West Campus will be held in the South Hall Community Room, 101 College Drive, Pottstown.

Gwynedd-Mercy College’s Autism Institute is holding its fourth annual Autism Workshop April 9. The workshop addresses autism identification, programming and on-going support for administrators, teachers, paraprofessionals and pre-school personnel. The workshop will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the College’s Center for Lifelong Learning, located at 480 E. Germantown Pike, East Norriton . The center, a three-story building located on the corner of Arch Road and East Germantown Pike, is easily accessible from the Pennsylvania Turnpike, Route 202 and I-476. The fee is $25, which includes a light breakfast and lunch. Preschool personnel will receive a scholarship through a allow from the Montgomery County Child Development Foundation. Act 48 credit hours are available through the workshop. Visit gmc.edu to view workshop breakout sessions and speakers and to register. Those interested may also contact Deborah Schadler at 215-646-7300 ext. 160 or Schadler.d@gmc.edu.

VITA – Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program: Saturdays, Feb. 5 to April 9, 1 to 5 p.m., Learning Center Room 308. It’s a time many of us dread — tax time is here. The Temple University Ambler Business Society/Beta Alpha Psi, supported by campus faculty and additional volunteers, will be providing the federal and say tax preparation help that many low-to-moderate income families might need through VITA, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, now in its fourth year at Ambler. Volunteer Tax Assistants — many of them trained and certified students — will be available at the Ambler Campus Learning Center, from 1 to 5 p.m., to offer free tax preparation assistance through the VITA program. Students, families, or individuals with a yearly income of less than $50,000 are eligible for the VITA program. The VITA Program at Temple University Ambler is by appointment only and space is limited. Information or to schedule an appointment: 215-326-9519 or Dr. Steven Balsam at drb@temple.edu.

Registration is now open for Camp STARdom, offered by the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit. The five-week summer camp, which will run from July 5 through Aug. 6, is designed to boost academics, promote personal growth, positive values and creativity for kids in grades three to six and six to eight. There are two levels of camp with weekly themes providing an exciting variety of age-appropriate activities and academic enrichment, including computer projects, art, drama, music, cooking, science activities, games and sports. The camp is led by skilled senior counselors with training in educational-based activities. Camp STARdom will be held at the Anderson School, 930 Jefferson Ave., Eagleville, an air-conditioned, state-of-the-art facility with a gym, technology lab, art room and full-service kitchen. Before and after care is available. The cost is $200 per week. For more information or to register, log on to www.mciu.org or contact Maria DeLuca at 610-755-9448 or mdeluca@mciu.org. The registration deadline is March 31.

The Senior Adult Activities Center of Montgomery County, 536 George Street, Norristown, will hold the following events:

SAAC Adult Day Care, an alternative to Nursing Home Care is available — for information call 610-275-1960

Volunteers are needed for Meals on Wheels Program (call the number above)

SAAC’s Fifth Avenue Boutique opens Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Exercise with Theresa will be held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1 p.m.

Dance class is held every Monday at 10 a.m.

Tai Chi is held every Monday at 10 a.m.

Yoga is held every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m.

Line Dancing is held every Thursday at 10:30 a.m.

Dancing with Joan is held every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m.

Sculpture Class is held Wednesdays from 2 to 3:30 p.m.

“Why Should I Learn Spanish?” will be held Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.

“Generations On-Line” computer classes for seniors will be held Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. — computers are available during those hours.

“ Living” will be held every Tuesday at 1 p.m.

Boomer U will hold the following events. Boomer U is located at 45 Forest Avenue, Ambler. Registration & payment is required for all events: 215-619-8863.

Mar. 15: “A Woman’s Guide to Money Matters” – Take control of your financial future. Today a strong financial strategy is important for women of all ages. Your potential for success is limitless – especially when you have a strategy that fits your lifestyle. Bring a friend and learn more about preparing for retirement and developing a strategy to achieve your financial goals. 7-8:30 p.m., $10. Register by March 11: 215-619-8863. Boomer U, 45 Forest Ave. Ambler.

March 23 & 30: “Paranormal Investigator” – What are myths and truths about Paranormal Investigations? Why does a haunting happen and what activities really exist? What needs to be done at an actual investigation? These and many more questions answered along with what the necessary tools of the trade are. Come and learn! 7-9pm, $25. Register by March 18: 215-619-8863. Boomer U, 45 Forest Ave. Ambler.

April 12: “Yogurt, Make It Yourself” – (At a fraction of the cost!) Learn how to make your own yogurt to save money, time and recycling. Very simple process and you control the ingredients, texture and freshness of the finished product. Bring a clean, small container with a secure top and a spoon. 7:15 to 8:45 p.m. Cost: $12 + materials fee; please bring $5 with you to the class. Register by April 8.

April 14: “Everything You Really Should Know About Long Term Care” – Presented with a touch of humor, topics include what Medicare, Medicaid and health insurance cover; new legislation and tax laws; the actual cost of getting care at home, in nursing homes or assisted living facilities; how to comprehend the confusing options and choices in all insurance policies; how to compare policies; and more. This seminar treats a serious subject with laughter (and is not a sales pitch!). 7 to 9:15 p.m. Cost: $15. Register by April 8.

April 16: “Five Feasts For $10” (or Less) – The name states it all! Learn how to prepare easy, fabulous meals that will delight …. all while slashing your food budget. Main courses, salads, desserts and more! Come hungry! 1 to 3pm, $35. Register by April 12.

Pilates Class is held Wednesdays and Fridays at 9:30 a.m. First class is free; please bring a mat. For information call 610-291-5376.

Blue Bell School of Dance, 921 Penllyn Blue Bell Pike, Blue Bell, hosts Argentine Tango Classes and a Milonga dance party every Friday evening. Lessons start at 8:30 p.m. followed by dancing at 9:30 p.m. Andrew Conway, master Argentine Tango dancer, instructor and performer and his partner Linda Chase will instruct. All levels welcome and no partner is needed. Refreshments will be served. Fee is $12 per person and includes lesson and dancing. Information: 215-634-1101 or www.amoretango.com.

The Montgomery Hospital Medical Center will offer the following classes:

Childbirth Class— all parents are invited to participate, including those who are delivering at

other hospitals. For more information on maternity services or classes, call 610-270-2020.

CPR and First Aid Courses are offered for beginners to experiences health care providers. Call 610-270-2313.

The Ambler SAAC (Senior Adult Activities Center), located at 45 Forest Ave in Ambler will hold the following events:

Tai Chi every Monday and Thursday at 11 a.m.