Today's Highlights

Marines collect toys, money for youth

The annual Toys program, sponsored by the Marine Corps League will have distribution day on Saturday, Dec. 20, at the Harley-Davidson dealership on N. Glenn Rd.

This program is for families that were not served by other Christmas programs. Our list of needy families have grown this year so contributions and toys are needed. VFW posts and the American Legion are the main areas of collection. Toys may be dropped at the Marine Recruiting station. Monetary contributions are accepted as teenagers are often ignored in Christmas programs.

Any checks sent to our address must be made out to Marine Corps League. If made out to Toys for Tots the money must be sent back to Washington and will not be viable for this year.

Contributions may be sent to: Veterans Project, PO Box 50716, Casper, WY 82602.

Leo R. Sanchez - 265-4579

Holiday home tour

The Glenrock Reading Council presents the Eastside Holiday Home Tour from 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets are $10 each and available from any Reading Council member, Amanda Smith Photography or The Shoppe downtown. Tickets are also available during the event at each home - 700 Sunshine Lane, 600 Sunshine Lane, 332 Williams Way, 330 Sunset ( all in the Sunup Ridge subdivision) and 1161 US Highway 26/20, east of the elementary school. For more information, call 436-3456 or 436-7559.

Jazz at Metro

The Casper College Jazz Combos, under the direction of Robert Kleinschmidt and Tracy Pfau, will provide some holiday cheer at the Metro Coffee Company.

According to Pfau, Casper College guitar instructor, the Casper College Guitar Ensemble will open for the combos at 6:30 p.m. with a "Mostly Mozart Concert." The concert is free and open to the public. The Metro Coffee Company is located at 241 S. David in downtown Casper.

Golden K hears choir

The program at today's Golden K Kiwanis meeting at 10 a.m., at the Casper Senior Center will be a Christmas concert presented by the NCHS Choir.

Please call the number below for any information on Golden K or if you would like the opportunity to speak at one of our meetings. We are always looking for interesting talks of almost any nature. Our next activity will be with the Christmas party for the Boys and Girls Club.

Nick Nicholson - 234-1220

Group sets party

The Epsilon Master chapter of Beta Sigma Phi will have its Christmas Party in the home of Pat and Ron Potter. Dinner, with an entree of prime rib, will begin at 6 p.m. Members are asked to bring a dish to share and secret sister gifts will be exchanged . Husbands and /or significant others will be our invited guests. Information: Pat Potter, 472-5445 or Louise Bishop, 265-5776.

Christmas Traditions concert

The Casper Civic Chorale, under the direction of Wayne McIntire, will be performing its annual Christmas concert at 7:30 p.m., at the First United Methodist Church downtown. The concert will include Christmas selections depicting The Anticipation, The Birth, The Merriment and The Splendor. The concert features flute, bells, a brass quintet and organ, performed by Donna McIntire. Admission is free and donations are cheerfully accepted.

For more information, contact Wayne McIntire at 234-0372.

Petroleum Club ladies meet

The December luncheon of the Ladies of the Petroleum Club is today at 12:30 p.m., one week earlier than usual because of Christmas. Entertainment is by the Frontier Middle School Show Choir under the direction of Paul W. Searcey.

Reservations are required and can be made by calling Vera at 235-6446. If you have made reservations and have to cancel, call the club at 234-3588.

This just in

New to Town Crier.

Gift basket auction helps kids

Employees of the City of Casper have organized an online gift basket auction with proceeds to benefit the homeless student program through the Casper Rotary Foundation.

Fourteen baskets are available through the auction and some have contents valued at more than $500.

From the Events Center, there is a basket containing nine CD's, eight tickets to upcoming shows and more than a dozen other items.

From the Wastewater Treatment Plant employees, there is a basket full of "scented" items including candles, incense, potpourri and chocolate. They call it the "Things That Smell Nice" basket.

Visit the city's Web site at www.casperwy.gov to view the baskets and bid. The auction runs through 5 p.m., this Friday, Dec. 19. For more information, call 235-8344.

Church presents debt workshop

Community of Hope Church, 2955 E. 2nd St., presents "How to get Out of Debt in 5-7 Years, including your mortgage, with the money you already make," presented by Bob Marette on Saturday, Jan. 10, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attendees should take a list of their debt and a calculator There is no cost for the workshop, but all attendees are asked to take two cans of food for a food ministry. Continental breakfast and child care are provided. Call 472-4673 to make reservations. Organizers say this is not a financial seminar, how to get rich quick or how to cut your taxes seminar. It does not involve insurance, securities or debt consolidation. Attendees will leave knowing when they will be debt free.

Schools

Celebrations, etc.

Park hosts orientation

Park Elementary School will host an orientation session for interested families on Thursday, Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. If you are interested in placing your child at Park School for the 2009-10 school year, this session will explain the Park program. Park School features hands-on learning with an emphasis on the individual child. Because students stay with teachers for two years, relationships are strong and a sense of community pervades the school. There is emphasis on independent learning with students making oral presentations on a topic of their choice from kindergartner through 6th grade. Park also features a Spanish program where all students receive Spanish instruction from a certified teacher for 90 minutes per week.

Doris Waddell, principal

Scholarship available

Mensa Education & Research Foundation and Wyoming Mountain Mensa are seeking applicants for the 2008-2009 Scholarship Essay Contest. Awards of $300 to $1,000 are based on an essay of no more than 550 words that describes the applicant's career, vocational, or academic goals. Anyone who will be enrolled, for the academic year following the award, in a degree program in an accredited U.S. institution of post-secondary education and is a resident of Wyoming is eligible to apply for an award. For an entry form with essay rules, please go on line at {M7http://www.mensafoundation.org/scholarships or send a self-addressed stamped envelope to Wyoming Mensa Scholarships, PO Box 157, Sheridan, WY 82801. The deadline for submissions is Jan. 15, 2009.

NC '83 gathers online

Alumni from Natrona County High School Class of 1983 are participating in a Class Reunion Website at http://classreport.org/usa/wy/casper/nchs/1983/

There is no registration fee required to join in the fun. Each class member has full participation privileges.

Class member Sharon Johnson has volunteered to serve as class administrator. Stop in to the site and fill out a profile so you can be reached by alumni and can receive updates about the next class reunion.

NC '89 organizes

Attention NCHS classmates, it is time to start planning our 20th reunion and locating lost classmates. Please go to {M7www.classreport.org/usa/wy/casper/nchs/1989 and update your information or contact Kathy Bequette Osborne at {M7k.pooh.bear@hotmail.com.

Kathy Bequette - 259-1949

Helping Others

What's Here? Chances to help others.

NC staff needs help

The Natrona County High School Angel Fund helps needy NCHS students all year. Christmas is an especially busy time for us. We are always accepting monetary donations. Donate to the NCHS Angel Fund in someone's name for the holidays and we will send that individual a card to let them know. Contact Melissa Henry at 253-1604 for more information. Send donations to: NCHS Angel Fund, Attn: Melissa Henry, 930 S. Elm, Casper, WY 82601.

Casper family needs help

On June 10, 2008, Mike Banovich, 38, former Smith's Food and Drug manager, sustained a severe brain injury. He spent two months at Wyoming Medical Center, and was then transferred to Craig Rehabilatation Center in Denver. He is now continuing his rehabilitation at Elkhorn Hospital here in Casper. He is not able to return to his job at Smith's.

A fund has been established to assist his family. Contributions may be made at Wells Fargo-Mike Banovich. A benefit garage sale is also scheduled for February 2009. Anyone wanting to donate items or needing more information may email {M6bucks4bano@gmail.com or call Tricia at 232-8443.

Start the new year helping others

If it is more blessed to give than receive, this is the season to volunteer to help children who need special attention by becoming a volunteer grandparent in a school, day care or nursery. Over 30 grandparents are needed, and the rewards include lots of love and hugs and feelings that you've contributed something important to children as well as earning a small stipend, a medical exam, some isurance, free cable TV and mileage. Call 333-1517 to sign up for after New Year's.

Help with a home for the holidays

Volunteer and help Habitat for Humanity build a home for a deserving family. During December, work crews will be working Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon. Help is needed painting, installing sheetrock, wood trim, doors, flooring and decking.

Homes are being built at 903 and 909 St. John St. Please call 234-1348 or 265-3365 to let us know what days you can help.

If construction work is not your thing, why not help at the Habitat Restore? We need helpers to answer phones, handle merchandise, help customers and obtain donations. Donated new and used construction materials are also needed for building homes or for sale to the general public. Store hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 9:45 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For more information, call 234-1348 or Bruce Maurer at 262-7820.

Donate old stuff, decorations

Poverty Resistance is asking that individuals who know that they are getting furniture and larger items for Christmas donate their old stuff to the thrift shop at 450 S. Wolcott before Christmas.

The same is true for Christmas decorations that are not being used.

Requests for help from other agencies and from individuals has increased this year. Having these items before Christmas will help make for a great holiday for a low income family in need.

Items may be dropped off on the Wolcott street side between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. If there is a need to drop things off earlier, call the store to make arrangements.

For more information, call 232-8725.

Mary Ann Budenske

Donate cell phones

The Fraternal Order of Eagles, Aerie #306, is cooperating with law enforcement agencies and non-profits to collect and redistribute used cell phones to any community member who needs a 911 phone in the event of an emergency or to members of the military to make calls home. The old cell phones are inspected, cleaned, reprogrammed and distributed to domestic violence shelters, senior centers, neightborhood watch groups, school crossing guards or for military personnel. The Eagles encourages the public to not throw away old cell phones. Old cell phones can be dropped off at the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Aerie #306, located at 306 N. Durbin, Casper. When an old cell phone is dropped off, please designate whether you are donating the cell phone for emergency services or for military servicemen. Your cell phone donation is a deductible contribution.

Robbie Daniels - 235-5130

Thrift shop gives donations

The First United Methodist thrift shop, 611 W. Collins, recently distributed $28,000 among the following agencies in Casper: Interfaith, Joshuas, Holy Cross, Meals on Wheels, Child Development Center, Central Wyoming Rescue Mission, Self Help Center, Youth Crisis Center for the Mills home for boys and Hemry home for girls, Central Wyo Hospice, Mercer House, Habitat for Humanity, Westside Women's Clinic, and Blue Envelope. These donations generated from sales at the shop are possible because of the generosity and support of Casper citizens, and the hard work and dedication of the volunteer Methodist thrift shop workers.

Donations are accepted during open store hours which are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For more info, call 234-6611.

Fund for family

On Oct. 10, 2008, Joseph Coy Weese died as the result of a tragic work-related accident in Midwest.

He leaves behind his wife, Elisa and their four children; Jessika, 8; Oriana, 4; Trenton, 18 months and Mikala, 4 months.

A fund has been established to assist his wife and children. Contributions may be made to the Elisa D. Weese and Children Memorial Fund, WYO Central Federal Credit Union, 190 S. David, Casper, WY 82601.

For more information, call Cathy at 247-1192.

Chamber acts as dropoff

The Casper Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors are accepting donations of canned and non-perishable foods to be shared with those in the Casper community who need our help. Bring donations to the Chamber office, 500 N. Center St., Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Salvation Army will pick up and deliver to families of need in the Casper community. For questions, please call the chamber at 234-5311.

Family Promise seeks help for struggling families

Struggling families have no choice but to do without many of life's necessities. On behalf of these families, Family Promise of Casper asks the community to consider what things they would be forced to do without if they suddenly found themselves homeless, and then decide what they will choose to do without in order to help homeless families (perhaps the value of a specialty drink, a dinner out, a movie, or a mortgage/rent payment).

Family Promise of Casper is a nonprofit organization preparing to provide services to help homeless families in Natrona County become self-sufficient, seek employment, housing and the tools they need for success and independence. Volunteers from faith-based organizations will provide food and shelter to these families during their transition.

This is your opportunity to help. Donations may be sent to Family Promise of Casper, P.O. Box 4173, Casper, 82604-4173. For more information, visit www.familypromiseofcasper.org or call 265-6294.

Help mission residents

Godfather's Pizza and Tina's Drive for Life are sponsoring the third annual Holiday Food and Needs Drive for the Central Wyoming Rescue Mission, now through Christmas. Bring nonperishable food items and children's hats, gloves and scarves to Godfather's Pizza, 2877 E. 2nd St., and put in the donation box in the east entrancer. Be a giver this season and help keep tummies full and children warm. For more information, call 259-6032.

Help with angel tree, adopt-a-family

The Salvation Army Angel Tree and Adopt-a-Family program needs community involvement.

Each year at Christmas time, The Salvation Army provides food and toys to families in need. Food and gifts are also provided for seniors who may be homebound or have a greater need during the holiday season.

The Angel tree allows for businesses to house a tree filled with the names of children and seniors who are asking for clothes and/or gifts. Those who work at the business or customers may take an angel tag, purchase the suggested item and return it to the business.

In the adopt-a-family program, an individual, family or business works with The Salvation Army in taking on a whole family that is seeking help during the holidays. Those who adopt a family provide gifts and/or food for the family and The Salvation Army links the two together.

If you or your business would like to be involved in either of the programs, call Capt. Terrie Wilson at The Salvation Army, 234-2002.

Fundraisers

Helping folks raise money.

Put your stamp on Wyo kids

Net profits from the purchase of personalized custom stamps and coordinating stationery will be donated to the Wyoming Early Childhood Partnership to fund the nonprofit's Wyoming Kids First Initiative.

Because of the increased demand for these stamps during the holiday season, executive director Pam Walker has gift certificates that can be given as gifts. Each certificate is coded and customers can go online to the manufacturer to enter their customized order information. Shipping is included in the cost of the certificate, which sells for $47.50, including tax.

Stamps and stationery are developed through a Dallas-based company owned by a friend of Walker's.

Stamps are available in a wide range of designs and the stationery is designed so that the stamp may be used with each piece, including calling cards, note cards, gift tags, note paper and more.

The Wyoming Early Childhood Partnership is a new public/private parnership that will oversee the Wyoming Kids First Initiative, which will build a comprehensive and collaborative early childhood system within Wyoming.

To order a gift certificate or for more information on the partnership and/or initiative, call Walker at 277-5093.

Give a cozy Wyoming throw

PEO Chapters AC, G and O are selling Wyoming throws. The throw is a perfect Christmas gift. The 100 percent cotton 4- by 6-foot throw designed by Casper PEO members, exhibits images of Wyoming in a multi-colored design. All proceeds from the sales support PEO projects to help educate women through grants, loans and scholarships. More than 80,000 women have been recipients of PEO projects. To purchase or order a Wyoming throw, call Becky at 259-3350

Boys & Girls Club annual event set

The 2009 Boys & Girls Clubs' Annual Reverse Raffle and Auction is set for Saturday, Feb. 7, 2009 at the Casper Events Center. This year's theme is, "Let Their Light Shine." The event will have a nautical feel of warm summer days, fresh ocean air and white sandy beaches. This is one event you won't want to miss!

Proceeds from the raffle and auction will benefit nearly 1,000 youth members served daily in seven sites in Central Wyoming, serving over 3,900 youth annually in education, health and recreation programs with emphasis on character development. Club members are between the ages of 6 and 18. The Club is serving more youth today, keeping with the organization's mission to "inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens." In order to serve these kids with quality programming by professional youth development staff, we need your support.

The Reverse Raffle and Auction proceeds go directly to support programming. Auction items are being sought, and anyone wishing to donate an item may drop it off at the Club or call for pick up, 235-4079. Procurement begins Dec. 1.

Anyone planning to attend are encouraged to make their reservations early. Corporate and sponsor tables will be treated to complimentary bottles of wine that will feature a special engraving by event co-chair PJ Henderson. Tickets will be available per person, by corporate table, or at a sponsorship level. For more information, please call the event hotline at 235-4079.

Rec Sports

Fun stuff for your body.

Elks plan hoop shoot

Casper Elks Lodge #1353 Hoop Shoot basketball free throw competition is at Casper College T-Bird Gym on Saturday Jan. 3, 2009, at 10 a.m. The contest is free and open to all Casper area girls and boys ages 8 through 13 (age as of April 1, 2009). Registration will take place onsite.

Ski camps offered during Christmas break

The Casper Mountain Racers will be holding several Christmas Break Ski Camps. Youth ages 8-12 can attend the following ski camps; December 26, 27, and 28. This three day camp will get your young athlete tuned up and ready for the ski season. The cost of this camp is $100. Youth can continue to build skills from the first camp by attending camps on January 2nd and 3rd and 7th and 8th. Each of those two day camps will be offered at a cost of $80. Youth and adult Holiday Ski Camps will be held on December 26, 27,and 28 and are geared toward more advanced racers as well as anyone else interested in enhancing their skiing and race skills. The cost for this camp is $175. Professional coaches will be helping athletes gain valuable skills to use on the race course as well as perfect their skiing ability on the hill. Lift tickets are not included in the cost of the camps. For more information contact Chris at 472-7669.

Help Yourself

What's Here? Things to make you feel better.

Christmas at thrift shop

Christmas is out at the First United Methodist thrift shop, 611 W. Collins. Everything from clothing, dishes, decorations, trees are available now. New Christmas items will be added regularly as space permits. So shop often. Hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Donations of clean usable merchandise and clothing will be accepted during open store hours. Donations left outside after hours are subject to weather and predators and may have to be discarded. Thank you for your consideration. For more info, call 234-6611.

Holidays prompt closings

The Nicolaysen Art Museum and Discovery Center, as well as The Museum Shop at the Nic, will be closed several days during the remainder of the year so the museum's staff can spend time with their families during the upcoming holiday season.

Specifically, the museum is closed Christmas Day through Dec. 29; as well as New Year's Eve, beginning at noon and New Year's Day.

For more information, call the museum at 235-5247 or visit the web site: www.thenic.org.

Helping Others

What's Here? Chances to help others.

Cab vouchers available

Between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day is one of the most dangerous and deadliest times on our roadways due to an increase in drunk driving. The You Drink & Drive, You Lose 2008 campaign committee would like to remind everyone to designate a sober drive before you go out to celebrate this holiday season.

The slogan is "My Right to a Safe Holiday."

This year, plan ahead for youself, a family member, friend or employee by purchasing a $10 prepaid cab voucher. These vouchers make great stocking stuffers or party gifts to ensure a safe ride home for everyone. They are available for purchase at Metro Coffee Company, Johnny J's Diner, Old Chicago or the Wyoming Medical Center Foundation. Prepaid vouchers are good through March 31, 2009.

Companies can choose to purchase prepaid vouchers for those who attend their holiday celebrations and insure everyone a safe ride home. They can personalize each prepaid voucher and display their logo and name on the cards by calling 577-2535. Everyone has a right to a safe roadway. Make responsible choices and demand those around you do the same. Enjoy this holiday season and help make it a safe one.

Help Joshua's

Joshua's Storehouse needs your help for the holidays. With Thanksgiving and Christmas fast approaching, Joshua's is asking you to help us make these holidays a happy one for families and seniors. Donations of the following are much needed - turkeys, stuffing mix, canned vegetables, cranberry sauce, yams, chicken broth, potatoes, onions, eggs, margarine, rolls and pies.

In addition, the following items are needed for the Christmas boxes - fresh fruit, candy canes, wrapping paper and tape. Gifts are needed for adults, teens, girls, boys and babies.

Volunteers who can help with wrapping gifts and other volunteer work are welcomed and appreciated.

Please help Joshua's Storehouse make the 2008 holidays a happy one for those who need help.

For more information, call Joyce at 265-0242. Donations may be delivered to 334 S. Wolcott, but make sure they're open first.

Grownup Stuff

Fun stuff for grownups.

Library offers computer help

Natrona County Public Library offers basic computer classes monthly to help you navigate the computer, the internet, and basic programs such as Microsoft Word. This year, additional classes on topics like starting an email account, using EBay and using specialized library resources will be covered. Please stop by the library's Reference Desk to sign up for classes, or call 577-READ, ext 2.

Classes for December 2008: Wednesday, Dec. 17, 7 p.m., Intro to Microsoft Word.

Happy OLLI Days

The Osher Lifelong Learning Center (OLLI) at Casper College is again celebrating the holiday season with Happy OLLI Days featuring $30 gift certificates.

"These certificates make a terrific gift for those special people who are 50 and older not only for the holidays, but birthdays as well," said Vicki Pollock, lifelong learning specialist at Casper College.

"During Happy OLLI Days gift certificates worth $45 are available for only $30. With their OLLI gift membership your special someone(s) will receive two free OLLI classes in spring 2009, one free OLLI class in summer 2009, the OLLI newsletter, and invitations to OLLI member socials and open houses," Pollock said.

"Each person who purchases an OLLI gift membership during Happy OLLI Days will receive a gift certificate and welcome packet in a lovely envelope to give for the holidays or a birthday," Pollock noted.

OLLI at Casper College is a program for adults age 50 plus who want to continue learning and exploring for the sheer joy of it, according to Pollock.

The Happy OLLI Days special $30 gift certificate will be available for purchase through January 30. For more information call 268-2097 or 268-3401.

Senior dances move

Dances at the Casper Senior Center with Swing Sounds have been temporarily moved to the Mills Senior/Community Center at 401 Wasatch St. in Mills. The move is necessary until the Casper Senior Center construction project of the dance area is completed.. Your cooperation, patience and understanding are greatly appreciated by both the Casper Senior Center and the Swing Sounds Band. The new dance area at the Senior Center will be both beautiful and accommodating.

Please note the following schedule changes for Swing Sounds Dances.

December 20th Mills Senior/Community Center

January 3rd at the Casper Senior Center (one Saturday only)

January 17, 31 Mills Senior/Community Center

February 7, 21 Mills Senior/Community Center

March 7, 21 Mills Senior/Community Center

For questions or comments please call the Casper Senior Center 265-4678 or Jim Trantham 234-7239

Strengthen and celebrate families

The Strengthening Families program is a nationally recognized "Best Practice" program aimed at increasing empathy and understanding among family member, as well as decreasing the risk youth (ages 10-14) face with substance abuse and other destructive behaviors. Skills covered in this program include problem resolution, celebrating family values and family activities, listening and communication, family empathy, refusal skills, and stress reduction. "Family Fun" is a risk prevention aspect encouraged through this program and reinforced by the "Family Fun Pack" awarded to each family upon program completion.

Enrollment interviews will be conducted until January 6 for the upcoming six-week evening sessions, beginning January 14 at Mercer House. This program is free of charge and a meal is provided before each session! Call Tammy Noel at 233-4268 to schedule enrollment. The registration deadline is January 6.

BE Weekend set for January

Beginning Experience of Wyoming is a weekend program that offers healing and renewal to divorced, widowed and separated men and women. It is a non-profit, faith-based comprehensive program offered to all persons, regardless of religious preference. A Beginning Experience weekend offers support and direction to help resolve grief or anger that can follow the end of a marriage by divorce, separation or death. The weekend can be a time for a real awakening, a re-evaluation, and a new beginning. Beginning Experience is a positive experience of hope. You can anticipate an intense reflective, possibly painful, but spiritually honest self-encounter. You will also find support, warm fellowship, and community. The next Beginning Experience weekend will be in Casper and starts at 8 p.m. on Friday evening, Jan. 16, 2009 and runs through Sunday afternoon, Jan. 18, 2009. Registration deadline is Jan. 14, 2009. Ask these team members for more information. Curtis at 307.463.2677, Rosanne at

307.856.5700, Rick at 265.3201, Sandi at 266.4340, or Marilyn at 307.856.2001.

Clubs

Red Hats, snowmobiles, etc.

Golden K sets December programs

The December meeting and program schedule for the Golden K Kiwanis is as follows. Meetings are every Tuesday morning at 10 a.m., at the Casper Senior Center:

Dec. 23: Senior Center Meadowlarks Christmas program

Please call the number below for any information on Golden K or if you would like the opportunity to speak at one of our meetings. We are always looking for interesting talks of almost any nature. Our next activity will be with the Christmas party for the Boys and Girls Club.

Nick Nicholson - 234-1220

Family Stuff

Fun stuff for families to do.

Holiday magic Dec. 21

Poverty Resistance, your local non-profit organization, wants to make boredom disappear on Sunday afternoon, Dec. 21 at 2 p.m. with magician Kent Messmer's performance of "The Magic of Christmas."

Join us at Natrona County High School's auditorium for an hour of 'wows,' 'oohs,' and 'aahs,' and of course a visit from that jolly old elf in the red suit who will be there to listen to your Christmas wishes and freshen us all up with candy canes.

Tickets will be available at the door, at the Poverty Resistance thrift store, or by calling 232-8725, $5/each or 5/$20.

All proceeds support the food pantry at Poverty Resistance, 450 S. Wolcott in Casper.

You may also purchase tickets over the phone, by mail, or by email at resistpoverty@peoplepc.com (attention: Kim or Mary Ann) and donate them back to children and families.

Spread the word for us and we'll give you 25 percent off your next purchase at the Thrift Store!

Make the Sunday afternoon before Christmas magical, and help feed hungry people in your city.

Thank you and Merry Christmas from all of us at Poverty Resistance.

CC string recital set

The string students of Casper College string instructors Jennifer Cowell, Gary DePaolo and Christine Dunbar will perform in a recital on Thursday, Dec. 18 at 7:30 p.m.

Various solo classical repertoires will be presented by violin, viola and cello students. A wide range of students will be represented and will include Natrona County Board of Cooperative Education Services (BOCES), music majors and nonmusic majors.

Pianist Paula Flynn will accompany the students. The recital serves as a final grade for each of the students.

The recital is free and open to the public and will take place in Durham Hall, located in the Aley Fine Arts Center on the Casper College campus.

Pregnancy, new parent class set

The Casper-Natrona County Health Department is inviting new and expecting parents to attend Ten Moons Rising, a series of information sessions and activities designed to assist in adjusting to early pregnancy, help prepare for the birthing process and provide answers to questions that arise after the birth of your baby. It does not matter whether you are having your first baby or your fifth baby n all pregnant moms are welcome and encouraged to participate. The series of three sessions will be held on Wednesdays in January from 2 to 4 p.m. For more information and to register, please call Kelly at 577-9732. Each session is $5, you may attend one or all three, and scholarships are available. All classes will be held at the Casper-Natrona County Health Department on South Spruce Street.

Museum hosts old-fashioned Christmas

Fort Caspar Museum invites families to participate in a fun hands-on activity on Saturday, Dec. 20. Stop by the classroom anytime between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to make old-fashioned Christmas ornaments. Choose between ornaments of trees, fish or candy canes, cornucopias, paper chains or feather stars.

All participating children must be accompanied by an adult. The program and related activities are free to participants. For more information, call curator of education Erin Rose at 235-8462 or check our website at {M7www.fortcasparwyoming.com.

Church sets public feast

St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Casper is hosting a holiday feast for members, friends and neighbors at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 21. All are invited to the Christmas celebration featuring a roast turkey dinner and special treats for the children. Christmas carols, led by members of the "Oil City Slickers," also are on the menu.

The community dinner is the culmination of a busy Advent season at St. Mark's. On Dec. 21, special services from the celtic Iona community in Scotland will be celebrated at 10 a.m.

Several community service projects are also in the works: Each year, the congregation collects Christmas gifts for children on the Wind River Reservation and creates Epiphany gift bags for women in area shelters and transitional housing.

St. Mark's popular Christmas Eve services will be celebrated on Dec. 24 with the colorful Children's Pageant at 5:30 p.m. and the joyous Christ Mass with Carols beginning at 10:30 p.m. A reception follows each service.

St. Mark's has deep roots in the local community. It was the first church established in Casper and its location at 701 S. Wolcott continues to be a cherished landmark and gathering place for the community. All are invited to celebrate the Christmas Season at St. Mark's.

For additional information, call St. Mark's at 234-0831 or log onto www.stmarkscasper.com

Planetarium sets December programs

The Casper Planetarium, 904 N. Poplar, has set its December calendar of programs. All shows are $2.50 per person.

Dec. 20 and 27: 8 p.m., "Black Holes," journey through one of the most mystifying, awe-inspiring phenomena.

Saturdays, Dec. 20 and 27: 7 p.m., "Season of Light," timeless holiday favorite explores religious, cultural and historical rituals.

Planetarium - 577-0310

Christmas TV Mass set

The annual Christmas TV Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, Dec. 21 at 5:15 p.m., at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Casper. The celebrant and homilist for the Christmas TV Mass this year will be diocesan administrator, Fr. Michael Carr. The concelebrants will be Msgr. James O'Neill, Fr. Kevin Koch, and Fr. Steven Titus. Rev. Mr. Russ Humphreys, Rev. Mr. Ed McCarthy, and Rev. Mr. Don Stewart will serve as Deacons. Betty McCarthy and Brian Zook will be the Lectors. St. Anthony's Music Ministry, under the direction of Brad Zettl, will provide the music for the Mass with Fr. Kevin Koch singing "Silent Night."

The Christmas TV Mass will be aired on K2 TV at midnight Dec. 25 (the beginning of Christmas Day) from midnight to 1 a.m., and again on Sunday, Dec. 28 from 9-10 a.m.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the TV Mass, which started in December 1998. Msgr. James O'Neill, who has been the celebrant for the Sunday TV Mass for the past 10 years, said this has been a profound spiritual experience for him. He also said it is such a great blessing for the people of Wyoming, especially the sick, aged, and shut-ins. It has been such a great privilege for him to be an instrument in making God's presence felt in homes, families, hospitals, and care facilities.

All are welcome to attend the celebration of the Christmas TV Mass on December 21 or to tune in to the telecast aired on Christmas at midnight or on Sunday, Dec. 28.

Family Stuff

Fun stuff for families.

Dance students will entertain

Rocky Mountain School of Dance, a nonprofit, will help you ring in the holidays by entertaining at your Christmas party for a donation. RMSD will also be holding our Holiday Open House through Dec. 19. Please call RMSD @ 237-6792 for more info.

Santa Saturday Dec. 20

The City of Casper is hosting "Santa Saturday" on Dec. 20, 2008 throughout the various facilities within the Recreation Division. Admission is $3 per participant per facility.

Stop by the Casper Ice Arena from 1-3 p.m.,. for "Skate with Santa" and enjoy ice skating to holiday music. Santa will join in the fun on his skates as well. Kids can also take sleigh rides on the ice with Santa.

From 3-4 p.m., Santa will be at the Casper Recreation Center to shoot some hoops and throw the ball around while he visits with young sports enthusiasts. Refreshments will be served in the lobby. Parents are welcome to come in and take advantage of some great photo opportunities.

Santa won't be donning his Speedo, but he'll be visiting the Casper Family Aquatic Center on the deck and in the lobby from 4-6 p.m. Admission includes swimming, cookies and hot chocolate. Children under 8 years old must be accompanied by an adult in the water.

For further information on "Santa Saturday" events, please call the Casper Recreation Center at 235-8383, the Casper Ice Arena at 235-8484 or check out the City's website at {M7www.casperwy.gov.

Church sets program

Sunrise Baptist Church, 3990 So. McKinley, invites you to join in celebrating Christmas! A musical presentation entitled "Hope Has Hands" will be held on Sunday, Dec. 21, at 10:30 a.m. Also a Candlelight Christmas Eve service will be held at 6 p.m. on the 24th. All are invited. For more information, call Pastor Gary Hans at 237-5108.

Seasonal gift shoppe open

Twelve Days of Christmas, a Casper holiday shopping tradition for 26 years, is open daily through December 23 in the Odd Fellows Building, 136 S. Wolcott. Parking is free in the parking garage south of the store. Hours are 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday, noon- 4 p.m., on Sundays. Relax while shopping in 8 cozy rooms and "roomettes."

The unique seasonal gift shoppe features gourmet packaged treats, antiques, plush, and handcrafted or uniquely embellished ornaments and giftware including stained glass, alpaca clothing, tole/decorative painting, florals, wire and beaded creations, great jewelry variety, pottery, rope baskets, soaps/lotions, jams/jellies, quilted items, fretwork, original cards, paper art, hand-crafted dolls, beeswax candles/ornaments, metalwork, original artwork, and $1 gifts. New merchandise arrives daily!

The 2008 Twelve Days charity is "Jason's Friends". All proceeds from ornaments sold off the Jason's Friends tree and from Wyoming coal go to Jason's friends! A jar at the counter is for cash donations.

MH Hennagin - 473-8790

Help Yourself

What's Here? Things to make you feel better.

Get help from Joshua's

Are you and your family needing help to have a Merry Christmas? Joshua's Storehouse is still accepting applications for Christmas boxes. You can get an application at Joshua's, 334 S. Wolcott. Hours are Monday, 1-3:30 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-noon and 1-3:30 p.m., and Friday, 10 a.m. to noon and 1-3 p.m. Joshua's is closed Wednesdays and weekends.

Please let us help you and your family enjoy a Merry Christmas with the assistance of the people of the community who have opened their hearts and provided donations to Joshua's.

Veterans and seniors may also apply. The deadline to apply is Dec. 19.

For those wanting to help, Joshua's is still in need of Cool Whip, pies, eggs, apples, oranges and candy canes.

For more information, call 265-0242.

Bars have vouchers

The You Drink & Drive, You Lose 2008 campaign committee wants to remind everyone to always designate a driver before you go to a party or a bar. If you have had too much to drink, stay where you are or call a friend or family member for a ride home, or call a cab or ask the bartender for information on a cab voucher. The committee has distributed cab vouchers to bars in town through the generosity of Western Distributing. Prepaid cab vouchers in bars are available through Jan. 1, 2009. And remember, report every drunk driver immediately by calling 911 or REDDI (1-800-442-9090) if you are on the highway. Be ready to provide a location, vehicle description and license plate number. Make responsible choices and demand those around you do the same.