Renton Reporter Communitiy Calendar | July 23

A look at what's happening in the Renton community.

Calendar Submissions

Calendars are published Wednesdays and Saturdays on a space-available basis. Items for the Wednesday edition must be submitted by noon the previous Thursday. Items for the Saturday edition must be submitted by noon the previous Tuesday. Submit items to calendar@reporternewspapers.com.

Special events

Renton River Days: July 23-27. Main festival is 11 a.m.-8 p.m. July 25-27. Features live entertainment, art show and market, quilt show, pony rides, downtown parade (Saturday) and more. Liberty Park, 1101 Bronson Way N., Renton. 425-430-6528 or www.rentonwa.gov.

Renton Farmers Market: 3-7 p.m. Tuesdays, through Sept. 16. Features master gardener clinics, chef’s demonstrations and live entertainment. Performances include: July 29, Tacoma Banjos; Aug. 5, Lava Flow Trio; Aug. 12, Triple Treat; Aug. 19, Piano Man; Aug. 26, karaoke and you; Sept. 2, Temple Biet Tikva dancers and music; Sept. 9, Tex Knutson; Sept. 16, closing celebration. South Third Street, between Logan and Burnett Avenue South. 425-679-1502 or www.rentonfarmersmarket.com.

North Renton Neighborhood Picnic/Potluck: 5:30-8 p.m. July 30. Theme: “Come and meet your neighbors.” Includes games, raffles, face painting, and visits by Renton Police and Fire Department. Presented by the North Renton Neighborhood Association. Jones Park, 98 Wells Ave. S., Renton. www.northrenton.org or northrenton@msn.com.

OEC Benefit “Eat, Drink and The Big Screen: 9-11 p.m. Aug. 22. Open to ages 11-17. Bring a lawn chair and watch the latest PG or PG-13 movie. Food and snacks available for purchase. Admission: Free. North Highlands Neighborhood Center, 3000 N.E. 16th St., Renton. 425-430-6766 or www.rentonwa.gov.

Downtown Renton Art and Antique Walk: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Aug. 23. Indoor and outdoor exhibits featuring works by more than 75 artists. Downtown Renton. 425-430-6589 or www.artsunlimited.org.

Children

Play Day in the Park: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesdays through Aug. 6. No play day July 23. Open to ages 2-12 with an adult for games, crafts and activities. Locations: July 30, Kennydale Lions Park, 2428 Aberdeen Ave.; Aug. 6, Tiffany Park, 1902 Lake Youngs Way S.E. 425-430-6700 or www.rentonwa.gov.

Picnic Pizzazz: Noon-1 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 14. No event July 24. Free lunchtime entertainment for children includes: July 31, Jeff Evans magic show; Aug. 7, The Noise Guy; Aug. 14, Eric Herman music show. Bring a picnic lunch. Kiwanis Park, 815 Union Ave. N.E., Renton. 425-430-6700 or www.rentonwa.gov.

Summer Fest 2008: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. weekdays through Aug. 15. No program July 23. Open to ages 6-12. Free drop-in program includes crafts, games, contests and more at various city parks. Free summer lunch program also available. See Web site for details and locations. 425-430-6700 or www.rentonwa.gov.

Renton FUMC Children and Parents Playgroup: 10 a.m.-noon Tuesdays. Open to parents and children of all ages. Renton First United Methodist Church, 2201 N.E. Fourth St. 425-255-5403.

Classes

REI clinics: 7 p.m. various Wednesdays, including: July 30, Dan Nelson to discuss his book, “Hiking with Dogs.” Cost: Free. 240 Andover Park W., Tukwila. 206-248-1938.

Financial seminars: 6 p.m. Tuesdays, Aug. 5-26. Financial advisor Diane Mayer to lead free classes. Topics: Aug. 5, “Smart Choices in Retirement”; Aug. 12, “Tax-Free Investing”; Aug. 19, “Outlook and Opportunities: Understanding Volatile Markets”; and Aug. 26, “Company Plan Distribution Options.” Registration requested. Edward Jones office, 25623 104th Ave. S.E., Kent. 877-638-1605.

English as a Second Language: 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays through Aug. 28. Develop and improve English language skills. Cost: Free; registration required. North Highlands Neighborhood Center, 3000 N.E. 16th St., Renton. 206-233-9720 or www.literacyseattle.org.

Safety Camp 2008: 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Aug. 30. One-day camp teaches children about safety issues including bike, water, gun, and campfire safety. Participants also get an inside tour of Valley Medical Center emergency department, and an interactive session with firefighters, paramedics, ambulances and fire engines. Cost: Free; advance registration required. Valley Medical Center’s MAC Building, 400 43rd St., Renton. SafetyCamp@ValleyMed.org.

Renton Black Parents Association Community Tutoring Program: 6:30-8 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Computer lab sessions. 13611 S.E. 116th Ave., Renton. 425-226-8443 or rbpamlk@rentonbpa.org.

Faith

Movie Night at First United Methodist: 6-8 p.m. Aug. 3. All are welcome. Refreshments provided. Renton First United Methodist Church, 2201 N.E. Fourth St. www.gbgm-umc.org/renton1stumc.

“Rainforest Adventure Camp” Vacation Bible School: 9:30 a.m.-noon Aug. 4-7. Open to children age 3 through sixth grade. Cost: $10. Renton First United Methodist Church, 2201 N.E. Fourth St. 425-255-5403.

Cancer Support Bible Study: 6:30-8 p.m. Aug. 18. Fairwood Library, 17009 140th Ave. S.E., Renton. 425-271-2327.

Movie Nights at St. Andrew: 8 p.m. Saturdays through Aug. 23. St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, 3604 N.E. 10th Court, Renton. 425-226-5547.

Renton Day Women’s Bible Study: 9:25 a.m. Tuesdays. First Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 19800 108th Ave. S.E. www.bsfinternational.org.

Seniors’ Bible Study: 9:15-11:30 a.m. Thursdays. Non-denominational group is open to all. Renton Senior Activity Center, 211 Burnett Ave. N. 425-430-6633.

Women’s Group Bible Study: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Thursdays. Room 110 at Highlands Community Church, 3031 N.E. 10th St., Renton. nlr22@comcast.net.

Health/Fitness

Blood drives in Renton: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. July 24 at Renton City Hall, 1055 S. Grady Way; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. July 26 at St. Stephen the Martyr Church, 13055 S.E. 192nd St. For Puget Sound Blood Center. 800-398-7888 or www.psbc.org.

Yoga classes: 5 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays; 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Fridays. Rockin’ Horse Dance Barn, 11820 150th Ave. S.E., Renton. 425-255-9211 or www.learn2dance4fun.com.

Libraries

Fairwood Library, 17009 140th Ave. S.E., Renton. 425-226-0522 or www.kcls.org.

• “Catch the Reading Bug” 2008 Summer Reading Program: Through Aug. 31. Pick up booklets at the library.

• Master Gardeners: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. Master gardeners will be on hand to answer questions.

• ESL class: 6:30 p.m. most Mondays and Wednesdays. Registration required; call 253-838-6810.

• Story times: Library offers various story times for newborns to 6-year-olds and foreign language speakers. Call for details.

• Talk Time: 10 a.m. Saturdays. Improve speaking and listening skills in this English conversation group.

Renton Public Library, 100 Mill Ave. S. 425-430-6610. Library events include:

• Don Ehland’s Insect Safari: 10:30-11:30 a.m. July 31. Open to second-graders and older.

• Spiderwick Adventures: 2-4 p.m. Aug. 7. “Spiderwick”-themed crafts and activities. Open to children in third-sixth grades.

• “Second Time Cool” Crafts for Teens: 2-4 p.m. Aug. 15. Open to teens in sixth-12th grades. Bring old jeans and T-shirt to decorate or create something new.

• Anime Festival: 2-4 p.m. Aug. 22. Open to teens in sixth-12th grades.

• “Cinderella and the Bug Brigade”: 7-8 p.m. Aug. 25. Presented by Mary Shaver and Her Marionettes. Open to all ages.

• Renton Library Book Group: 7-8:30 p.m. the third Thursday of the month. Topics: Aug. 21, “Never Let Me Go” by Kazuo Ishiguro; Sept. 18, “The Shadow of the Wind” by Carlos Ruiz Zafon.

• PAWS to Read: 2-3:30 p.m. the first and third Saturdays of the month. Children in fourth grade and younger can come to practice reading skills with a canine listener. Registration required. Call 425-430-6825.

• Story times: 7 p.m. Mondays and 10 a.m. Wednesdays. Open to ages 2-6 and parents.

Highlands Library, 2902 N.E. 12th St., Renton. 425-430-6790. Library events include:

• Story times: 10 a.m. Tuesdays. Open to ages 2-6 and parents.

Organizations

11th District Democrats: 7 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month. The executive board meets on the first Tuesday of the month. Carpenter’s Hall, 231 Burnett Ave. N., Renton. 206-396-1237 or alene@theflutededge.com.

11th District Republicans: 8-10 a.m. July 26. Continental breakfast. Guest speaker state Attorney General Rob McKenna. Registration requested. 720 N. Tobin St., Renton. 206-947-4648 or ruthgibbs1@aol.com.

AARP Renton Chapter No. 414: 1 p.m. the third Friday of the month. All are welcome. Cost: Free. Renton Senior Activity Center, 211 Burnett Ave. N. 425-430-6633.

Allied Arts of Renton: 6:30-8 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of the month. Kohlwes Education Center, 300 S.W. Seventh St., Renton.

Benson Hill Communities Progress Group: 6:30 p.m. the second Thursday of the month. Group promotes good government, education, awareness and communication about quality of life aspects of the Benson Hill Communities. King of Kings Lutheran Church library, 18207 108th Ave. S.E., Renton. info@bensonhill.com.

Cedar River Quilters Guild: 6-9 p.m. the first and third Tuesdays of the month. All levels of quilters welcome. Salvation Army, 720 S. Tobin St., Renton. 425-271-3671.

Cedar River Ramblers Toastmasters: 6:30-8 p.m. the second and fourth Mondays of the month. July 28, Open House. Lake Shore Retirement Residence, 11448 Rainier Ave. S., Renton. 206-618-3642, information@cedarriverramblers.org or www.cedarriverramblers.org.

Greater Renton Kiwanis Club: 7:27 a.m. Thursdays. Come join the group for fellowship, interesting programs and to find out how to make a difference in the community. Renton Technical College main campus, 3000 N.E. Fourth St., Renton. 425-235-2463 or greaterrentonkiwanis.org.

Kiwanis Club of Renton: 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m. the first and third Tuesdays of the month; 7:30-8:30 a.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. Touchdowns Sports Bar and Grill, 423 Airport Way, Renton. 425-221-2028.

MOMS Club of Renton: Meet for playdates at parks and other locations. New activities daily. Non-profit & non-religious organization provides daytime support for moms and their families, and serves Renton, Tukwila, SeaTac, Burien and Newcastle. www.momsclubofrenton.org, info@momsclubofrenton.org or 425-260-3079.

National Association of Retired and Active Federal Employees, Chapter 1701: 1 p.m. the second Thursday of the month. Renton Senior Center, 211 Burnett Ave. N. RBrown4648@aol.com.

Networking: 7:30-8:30 a.m. Wednesdays. The Renton iTakeTheLead Business to Consumer Networking Breakfast. Plum Delicious, 3212 N.E. Sunset Blvd., Renton. 425-890-8045 or www.itakethelead.com.

Newcomers and New Friends of Greater Seattle: The second Wednesday of the month. Lunch meetings held at various locations throughout Puget Sound. Other activities include a fourth Thursday coffee, daytime gourmet, bowling, SoundBites Gadabouts and more. Call for details. 425-775-8608 or www.seattlenewcomers.com.

Order of Eastern Star Tyee Chapter No. 122: 7:30 p.m. the second Thursday of the month. Renton. St. Andrew’s Masonic Lodge, 505 Williams Ave. S., Renton. 425-227-9766.

Puget Sound Business Professionals: 8:30 a.m. Tuesdays. Networking group is comprised of highly skilled professionals working together to attain independent business goals. Holiday Inn Select, 1 Grady Way, Renton. www.pugetsoundbusinessprofessionals.blogspot.com.

Renton Business and Professional Women: 11:15 a.m.-1:15 p.m. the third Friday of the month. Luncheon meetings. Cost: $15-$20; advance registration requested. 4th Street Grill, 4004 N.E. Fourth St., Renton. www.rentonbpw.org.

Renton Historical Society: 5:30 p.m. the last Wednesday of the month. Call to confirm time and location. Renton Historical Museum, 235 Mill Ave. S. 425-255-2330.

Renton/Kent Women’s Connection: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., the third Wednesday of each month. Cost: $13.75, includes luncheon. No dues or memberships required. Golden Steer Rib ’n Steak House, 23826 104th Ave. S.E. Kent. 425-271-3198 or 425-226-7829.

Renton-Kent Newcomers Club: Luncheon meetings: The second Wednesday of the month. Social club welcomes new residents to the area. Call for details and hobby groups. 425-235-1819 or 253-638-0857.

Renton Lions Club: 6 p.m. the first and third Wednesdays of the month. Group of civic-minded men and woman dedicated to fun, fellowship and service to Renton and the international community. Summer meeting location: Renton Lions Youth Camp, 21230 S.E. 184th St., Maple Valley. 425-226-2834 or spring-glen@comcast.net.

Renton Sailing Club: 7:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month. Kennydale Memorial Hall, 2424 N.E. 27th St., Renton. 425-228-0133, www.rentonsailing.org.

Renton Sons of Italy: 6:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month. 505 Williams Ave. S., Renton.

Retired RV owners: Local group of Good Sam RV enthusiasts welcomes new members. Group travels to nearby RV parks a few days a month for sightseeing, games, dinners and fellowship. Monthly meetings take place at the Auburn Library, 1102 Auburn Way S. 253-854-5226 or 253-852-3927.

Rotary Club of Newcastle: 7:30 a.m. Wednesdays. Cost: $10 makeup fee for members; free for visitors. Golf Club at Newcastle, 15500 Six Penny Lane, Newcastle. 425-455-1600.

Rotary Club of Renton: Noon-1:30 p.m. Thursdays. Club members give time, raise funds and enjoy fellowship, while serving local and international needs. Maplewood Golf Course, 4050 Maple Valley Highway, Renton. 425-466-8000, marcie@marciemaxwell.com or www.rentonrotary.org.

St. Andrew’s Masonic Lodge No. 35 F&AM: 7:45 p.m. the first Saturday of the month. Dinner: 6:30 p.m. All Masons and interested gentlemen are welcome. 505 Williams Ave. S., Renton. 425-227-9766.

Soroptimist International of Renton: Noon-1 p.m. the first and third Tuesdays of the month. Open to women in all stages of careers. Club supports array of service projects locally, nationally and globally to improve lives of women and girls. Salvation Army center, 720 S. Tobin St., Renton. 425-255-3210 or judyandgene1@comcast.net.

South King County Genealogical Society: 10 a.m. the third Saturday of the month. First Baptist Church of Kent, 11420 S.E. 248th St. 206-948-4286 or www.skcgs.org.

Take Off Pounds Sensibly: 5:30 p.m. Mondays. TOPS group helps members as they take and keep pounds off sensibly. Cost: $24 annual fee, plus $5 monthly dues. Highlands Community Church, room 103, 3031 N.E. 10th St., Renton. 425-226-0473, 425-271-0247 or www.tops.org.

Teen MOPS: 6-8 p.m. Tuesdays. Free group for pregnant teenagers and teenage mothers. Childcare available. River of Life Fellowship, 10615 S.E. 216th St., Kent. 253-218-7420.

Toastmasters: 7-8:30 p.m. the first and third Mondays of the month. Come for a fun evening of sharpening your communication skills in a safe environment. First Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 19800 108th Ave. S.E., Renton. 253-859-2842.

The Toast of Valley Toastmaster’s Club: Noon-1 p.m. Thursdays. All are welcome. Valley Medical Center, 400 S. 43rd St., Renton. 425-656-3810 or nancy_eveleth@valleymed.org.

TV Toastmasters: Noon-4 p.m. the second Saturday of the month. Learn how to perform both in front and in back of television cameras. Puget Sound Access, 22412 72nd Ave. S., Building C, Kent. 253-854-1312 or www.tvtoastmasters.org.

Valley Newcomers: 11:30 a.m. the first Tuesday of the month. Group meets at area restaurants. Call for details, locations. 253-854-1831.

Western Bass Club: 7 p.m. the third Thursday of the month. Kennydale Memorial Hall, 2424 N.E. 27th St., Renton. www.westernbassclub.com.

Writers’ Muse: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 12. Published-writers’ critique group. Fairwood Library, 17009 140th Ave. S.E., Renton. SunTiger@usa.com or http://writer.journalspace.com.

Public Meetings

Advisory Commission on Diversity: 6:30 p.m. the second Wednesday of the month. City Hall, Room 511, 1055 S. Grady Way, Renton.

Civil Service Commission: 4:30 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of the month. Human Resources Training Room on the seventh floor of City Hall, 1055 S. Grady Way, Renton.

Human Services Advisory Committee: 3 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month. Seventh floor council chambers at City Hall, 1055 S. Grady Way, Renton.

King County Fire District No. 25: 4 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month. Commissioner’s meeting. Fire Station No. 16, 12923 156th Ave. S.E., Renton.

Library Board: 7 p.m. the second Thursday of the month. Renton Public Library, 100 Mill Ave. S.

Municipal Arts Commission: 8 a.m. the first Wednesday of the month. Seventh floor of City Hall, 1055 S. Grady Way, Renton.

Parks Commission: 4:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month. Various locations, including City Hall, 1055 S. Grady Way, Renton. 425-430-6600.

Planning Commission: 6 p.m. the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month. Council chambers at City Hall, 1055 S. Grady Way, Renton.

Renton City Council: 7 p.m. the first four Mondays of the month. Seventh floor council chambers at Renton City Hall, 1055 S. Grady Way.

Renton Non-Motorized Transportation Advisory Committee: 4:30 p.m. the first Thursday of the month. Fifth floor of City Hall, Room 511, 1055 S. Grady Way, Renton.

Renton School District School Board: 7 p.m. the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month. Kohlwes Education Center, 300 S.W. Seventh St., Renton.

Senior Citizens Advisory Committee: 10 a.m. the first and third Mondays of the month. Renton Senior Activity Center, 211 Burnett Ave. N.

Sister City Advisory Committee—Cuautla: 10 a.m. the second Friday of the month. Seventh-floor conference center at City Hall, 1055 S. Grady Way, Renton.

Soos Creek and Water District: 4:30 p.m. the first, third and fourth Wednesdays of the month. District Office, 14616 S.E. 192nd St., Renton.

Reunions

Hazen High School Class of ’88 20-year Reunion: July 25. Call or e-mail for details. Renton Holiday Inn Ballroom, 1 S. Grady Way. 425-204-5055 or http://hazenclassof88.myevent.com.

Renton High School Class of 1948 60-year Reunion: Aug. 24. Call for details. Renton Senior Activity Center, 211 Burnett Ave. N., Renton. 425-255-2923.

Renton High School Class of 1978 Reunion: Sept. 19-20. Call or see Web site for details. 425-644-1044 or www.reunionswithclass.com.

Renton High School Class of 58 Reunion: Oct. 25. Spirit of Washington Event Center, 233 Burnett Ave. S., Renton. 425-255-5023 or a.gummere@comcast.net.

Seniors

Renton Senior Activity Center, 211 Burnett Ave. N. 425-430-6633. Events and activities include:

• Senior trips: Aug. 6, Tacoma Rainiers vs. Albuquerque Isotopes; Aug. 27, Seattle Mariners vs. Minnesota Twins. All trips leave from the senior center. Call for details, cost.

• Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-noon Mondays-Fridays. Cost: $3 donation for ages 60 and older; $5.75 for those younger than 60. 425-254-1128.

• Health Assessment: 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Mondays. Provided by a visiting nurse.

• Computer Lab: 12:30-2:30 p.m. Wednesdays; 9:30-11:30 a.m. Fridays. Open to seniors with some computer experience to use Internet and e-mail. Cost: Free.

• Ongoing activities: Center offers a variety of activities and games, including bocce, bridge, pinochle, crochet group, horseshoes, open painting, woodcarving and pool.

• Thursday Afternoon Dances: 1-3 p.m. Thursdays. Cost: Free.

• Foot Care: Service is limited to seniors who cannot manage their own foot care. Call to schedule or cancel an appointment: 425-430-6662 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Tuesdays-Wednesdays.

• Free Blood Pressure Checks: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

• Low Vision Education Group: 12:15-1:30 p.m. the fourth Friday of the month.

• Widowed Information and Consulting Service: 12:30-2:30 p.m. Wednesdays.

• Meals-On-Wheels: Program provides frozen meals for homebound seniors. 425-255-7932.

Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission: Mission offers Renton-area seniors a variety of activities, including Bible studies, road trips, themed luncheons, summer camp, food boxes, free hair cuts and volunteer opportunities. For details, call 206-322-6801 or jmack@ugm.org.

Support

Al-Anon Family Group meetings: Meetings in Renton include:

• Saturdays and Sundays: 7:30 p.m. at Valley Medical Center’s Medical Arts Building, 400 S. 43rd St.

• Mondays and Thursdays: 7 p.m. Mondays and 7:30 p.m. Thursdays at Prichard Hall, 99 Wells Ave. S.

• Tuesdays and Thursdays: 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays, and 10 a.m. Thursdays, at First United Methodist Church, 2201 N.E. Fourth St.

• Saturdays: 10:30 a.m. at May Valley Alliance Church, 16431 S.E. Renton-Issaquah Road.

Alliance for the Mentally Ill of South King County: 6:30-8 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. The Alliance Center, 515 W. Harrison St., Kent. 253-854-6264.

Angel Care Breast Cancer Foundation: Trained survivors offer free emotional support to the newly-diagnosed, enhancing emotional recovery while going through treatments. Will attend consultations, chemotherapy and radiation appointments and have volunteers in your community. 206-417-3484, 877-417-3484 (toll-free), www.angelcarefoundation.org or angelcare@angelcarefoundation.org.

Angel Flight West: Volunteer pilot group offers free air transportation to those in need, especially medical care. 888-426-2643 or www.angelflightwest.org.

Consumer Support Group: 6:30-8 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month. The Alliance Center, 515 W. Harrison St., Kent. 253-854-6264.

Domestic Violence: 1-3 p.m. Tuesdays; 1-3 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Thursdays. YWCA of South King County hosts support groups for women who have experienced domestic violence. Meets at a confidential location. 206-799-6209.

Emergency Feeding Program of Seattle and King County: Program offers 14 varieties of healthy, nutritionally-balanced food packs to families and individuals with an immediate need for food. 206-329-0300 or www.emergencyfeeding.org.

Gamblers Anonymous: 7-9 p.m. Mondays at First Presbyterian Church of Renton, 2640 Benson Road S.; 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Cross and Crown Lutheran Church, 10940 S.E. 168th St., Renton; 8-10 p.m. Fridays at Nativity Lutheran Church, 17707 140th Ave. S.E., Renton. 888-424-3577.

Hearing Loss Association: 12:30 p.m. the second Friday of the month. Group works to help people with hearing loss through information, education, advocacy and support. Renton Senior Activity Center, 211 Burnett Ave. N., Renton. www.hearingloss.org or www.wasa-shhh.org.

Medical coverage assistance: Public Health Seattle & King County provides free assistance applying for benefits, including free or low-cost medical coverage for qualifying children. Call for details. English: 206-296-3944; Spanish: 206-296-3948 or 206-296-3943; Vietnamese: 206-296-3949.

Parkinson’s Support Group: 1:30-3 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month. Merrill Gardens at Renton Centre, 104 Burnett Ave. S., Renton.

Renton PFLAG Meetings: 7 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month. Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) is open to anyone having issues about acceptance of a gay or lesbian loved one, or yourself. Meetings are confidential. Group is not associated with any religious organizations. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 99 Wells Ave. S., Renton. 425-235-4139.

SHIBA Helpline: Statewide Heath Insurance Benefits Advisors is a network of trained volunteers that assists and advocates for consumer rights and options regarding health insurance, health care access and prescription access. Group is also accepting volunteers. 800-562-6900 or www.insurance.wa.gov.

South King County CHADD chapter: 7-9 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month. Discussion of issues that concern parents of children with attention-deficit disorder. New Horizon School, 1111 S. Carr Road, Renton. 253-631-8603.

Teen Camp Erin-King County: Applications now being accepted for free weekend camp. Open to teens who have experienced the death of a loved one. Camp provides support, education and opportunities for fun and fellowship to grieving teens. Camp slated for Aug. 22-24 at Camp River Ranch in Carnation. Call for details. 206-749-7689.

Veterans

Veterans Outreach: 3:15-6 p.m. Aug. 12 and Sept. 9. Veterans and their families can get assistance in applying for benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs from a Disabled American Veterans Service Officer. Kent Library, 212 Second Ave. N. 253-859-6439.

USS Missouri 35th Veterans Reunion: Aug. 28-Sept. 1. For BB-63. Veterans, family and friends welcome. Reunion will take place in San Antonio, Texas. 203-281-4693, 803-469-3579 or mo63@ftc-i.net.

USS Maddox Destroyer Association Reunion: Sept. 3-7. For DD-168, DD-622 and DD-731. Reunion will take place in Oklahoma City, OK. For details, contact Cliff Gillespie at 337-616-8450 or cwgilles45@aol.com.

USS Hollister Destroyer Reunion: Sept. 17-21 in Branson, Mo. For DD-788. For details, contact Nelda Rupp. 503-656-4949 or hnrupp@comcast.net.

Military reunions: October, 2008, reunion for the former crew of the USS Yancey (AKA-93) in Seattle. For details, contact George Clifton, 708-425-8531 or clifs@ameritech.net. June 24, 2009, reunion for former crewmen from the USS England (DLG/CG-22) in Seattle. For details contact Dennis O’Brien, 714-961-6840 or dennis@ussengland.net. Veterans can find information about upcoming reunions across the country through Military Locator and Reunion Service. Call 828-256-6008 or visit www.mlrsinc.com.

VFW Panther Lake Post 11329: 7:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month. U.S. Army Reserve Center, 14631 S.E. 192nd St., Renton. 253-631-8151 or 425-254-1459.

VFW Post 9430: 7:30 p.m. the first and third Wednesdays of the month. Ladies Auxiliary meetings: 7:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month. Family Hamburger Night: 6-7:15 p.m. Thursdays (except holidays). 7421 S. 126th St., Seattle. 206-772-9982.

VFW Renton Post 1263: 7:30 p.m. the second and fourth Thursdays of the month. Ladies’ Auxiliary: 7 p.m. the first Thursday of the month; Men’s Auxiliary: 7 p.m. the second Thursday of the month. VFW provides support to veterans of foreign wars and their families through overseas troop support, volunteer programs, community service, legislative action, charitable donations and research, and helps veterans seeking governmental benefits. Frank R. Vaise Post 1263, 416 Burnett Ave. S., Renton. 425-255-9010 or www.vfw1263.com.

Volunteers

AFS Student Exchange Program: Host families needed to house high school exchange students for the 2008-2009 school year. Call or see Web site for details. 800-237-4636 or www.afs.org.

Angel Care Breast Cancer Foundation: Breast cancer survivors needed to provide support for others battling cancer. Must be one year past the end of treatments and have good interpersonal skills. 206-417-3484, 877-417-3484 (toll-free), www.angelcarefoundation.org or angelcare@angelcarefoundation.org.

Green River Community College: College seeks volunteers in a variety of areas: ceramics, basic computing, court reporting and more. Professional experience is not required. 253-288-3346 or volunteer@greenriver.edu.

Litter Patrol: Once a month, help patrol State Route 900 from Interstate 405. All gear supplied by the Washington State Department of Transportation. 206-351-6796.

Domestic Violence Unit: King County Prosecutor’s Office is seeking volunteers to provide legal advocacy to King County domestic violence victims. Volunteers needed for 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. weekdays. 206-296-9700.

CASA: Court Appointed Special Advocates is looking for volunteer advocates for abused and neglected children in court. Must be 21 with excellent references. Volunteers must also attend 28 hours of training. 206-296-1120, gal.group@metrokc.gov or www.metrokc.gov/kcsc/depcasa.htm.

Dining Program Volunteers: Currently seeking volunteers to help with the Senior Community Dining Program at the Renton Senior Activity Center, 211 Burnett Ave. N. Program hours: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Mondays-Fridays. Hours are negotiable. Food service experience is helpful and a food handler’s permit is required. When obtained the cost of the permit is reimbursed. 425-255-7932.

Family Law CASA of King County: Children’s needs can get lost in the dispute between separating parents. Do you want to advocate for such a child? Volunteer for Family Law CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) of King County. 206-748-9700 or www.familylawcasa.com.

Friend to Friend: Volunteers are needed to visit residents in nursing homes, assisted living and retirement homes in the Puget Sound area. Call for details. 888-383-7818 or www.friendtofriendamerica.org.

Help Teach English: Volunteer tutors needed to help new immigrants and refugees learn English. Contact the City of Renton Community Services Department for more information. 425-430-6600.

Highline Hospice: Apply now for training class in late September. Hospice is recruiting caring and compassionate people interested in supporting terminally ill patients and their families. Volunteers provide patient support and companionship, caregiver respite, bereavement support or office help. Comprehensive training provided. Highline Hospice, 12844 Military Road S., Tukwila. 206-439-9095.

Meals on Wheels: Meal-delivery program has openings for volunteer drivers and co-coordinators at sites throughout King County. Time commitment for drivers averages three hours once a week, with 35-cent reimbursement per mile. Coordinators may work one or two days a week, four to six hours total. 206-448-5767 or www.seniorservices.org.

Multiple Sclerosis Association of King County Volunteers: MSA of King County is looking for people to assist those with MS in maintaining their independence and quality of life. People are needed to assist with water-therapy programs, visit isolated individuals, provide transportation, go shopping, do yard work or other household chores, teach computer skills and more. Volunteers are also needed to assist with an ongoing school-assembly program that educates elementary-school children about coping with the challenges of disabilities. 206-633-2606 or www.msakc.org.

Olive Crest Abused and Neglected Children’s Foundation: Group is looking for dedicated volunteers to join the auxiliary group. Members assist with Foster Family activities, fundraising activities and welcome baskets for children entering new homes. 425-462-1612, ext. 1314, or www.olivecrest.org.

Puget Sound Blood Center: Assist with blood drives and bone marrow registry drives. Must be available in the day or early evening twice a month and have reliable transportation. 425-462-4381, meganp@psbc.org or www.psbc.org/volunteers.

Red Cross Disaster Action Team: American Red Cross is seeking King County volunteers to respond to local disasters. Volunteers must be on-call one week out of six, and will receive free training. 206-726-3566 or www.seattleredcross.org.

Special Transportation Program: Group Health Cooperative needs volunteer drivers to transport frail, elderly members to and from medical appointments in King County. Volunteers use their personal cars, are reimbursed for mileage and determine their own schedules, including when, where and how often they will drive. Volunteers do not need to be Group Health members. 206-326-2800 or resource.l@ghc.org.

Stitches from the Heart: Volunteers are needed to knit, crochet or quilt blankets, sweaters, hats and booties for babies in need. Items go to hospitals across the country. Patterns available. Donations of yarn or money also appreciated. Call for details. 866-472-6903, stitchfromheart@aol.com or www.StitchesFromTheHeart.org.

Volunteer Chore Services: Volunteers needed to assist with chores for low-income elders and adults with disabilities. Services include shopping, light housekeeping, laundry, cooking and yard work. Program is a service of Catholic Community Services. 206-328-5787 or vc@ccsww.org.

Volunteer Literacy Program: Many people in our community struggle to communicate in the English language because they are new to the country. If you can volunteer three to four hours a week, you can help someone learn to read, write and speak English. Call Highline Community College: 206-878-3710, ext. 3303.