Today's highlights

Parkway Trust has annual meeting

The Platte River Parkway Trust will hold its Annual Meeting today at the Casper Petroleum Club from noon until 1:30 p.m. The public is invited to attend the meeting to hear about Parkway activities during 2004 and preview goals and plans for 2005, including the eastward extension of the Casper Rail Trail. Please plan to join us for lunch offered for $12. For more information, call the Parkway office at 577-1206.

Rancher's Night Out

A free "Rancher's Night Out," complete with hors d'oeuvres, refreshments and a cash bar is being provided by the Casper College Agriculture Department as part of the Fourth Annual Philip O. Doornbos Agriculture Series.

"We thought this would be a great event for anyone involved with cattle raising, from one to a herd," said Kelly Burch, Casper College Agriculture Department chair. "We have brought in experts on a number of topics important to cattle raising," Burch said.

The evening will begin at 6 p.m. with a social hour. At 7 p.m. Dr. Donal O'Toole, MVB, will speak on "Herd Health and Trichomoniasis." At 7:30 p.m., Dr. Bill Burdett, DVM, will speak on "BVD."

A break is scheduled for 8 p.m and will be followed by Dr. Dwayne Oldham, DVM, who will present "Current Brucellosis Status in the State of Wyoming and BSE." A question and answer session with all speakers will begin at 9 p.m.

Reservations are required for the free event. Reservations can be made by calling Heath

Hornecker at 268-2525, or toll free at 800-442-2963, ext. 2525.

Rec Sports

What's Here? Things for your body to do

Casper Skeet & Trap Club

Open Sundays, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Public is welcome! Ammo available, no shot larger than 7.5. All skill levels welcome. Youth 20-gauge shotguns available. In addition to skeet and trap, the club now has a five stand sporting clays course setup. Five Stand is very fun to shoot and an exciting way to improve your shooting skills. Five stand incorporates shots consisting of overhead, crossing, pairs, singles, rabbits, incoming and mixtures of each, very fun and a challenge to all shooters. Come on up and give it a try, it's guaranteed to be a lot of fun. The club is located just north of the Events Center, next to the Air Modelers facility. For more information, call Robert Meyer at 234-7147.

Open archery at Stuckenhoff

Stuckenhoff Sport Shooters Complex will be open for archery on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7 to 10 p.m., continuing through March 31. Prices are $4 for nonmembers and $2 for members. Both prices include a target. For more information, call Bruce Kennedy at 237-3094.

Clubs

What's Here? Quilting to acting, books to Red Hats

Quilters Anonymous sew all night

Quilters Anonymous quilting group will have an all-night sew and potluck, beginning at 6 p.m., on Friday, Feb. 25, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 801 S. Beverly, and continuing until 3 p.m. on Saturday.

Bring your sewing machines, projects, potluck food to share and wear comfy clothes and slippers. We'll sew until we drop.

For more information call Mo at 265-9338 or Sandie at 234-1843.

Duplicate bridge results

Week of January 30

Sunday: 1st, Mary Anne Phillips/Mary Hedges; 2nd, Laverne Grimes/Dinah Merritt; 3rd, Diane Treick/Dottie Lantz; 4th, Betty Lou Claxton/Bev Estes.

Wednesday: 1st, Betty Lou Claxton/Betty Jo Gifford; 2nd, Laverne Grimes/Maxine Beyer; 3rd, Mary Hedges/Bob Harris; 4th, (tie) Kay Root/Kris Hornberger and Bill Keigley/Dottie Lantz. Thursday: 1st, Maxine Beyer/Jim McAndrew; 2nd, Dottie Lantz/Mary Anne Phillips; 3rd, Mary Hedges/Sue Hayes.

Friday: 1st, (tie) Betty Lou Claxton/Richard Howard and Kris Hornberger/Kay Root; 2nd, Jim McAndrew/Bob Harris; 3rd, Audrey Flagg/Betty Laney.

Duplicate bridge is played: Sunday at 1 pm at Senior Citizen Center, Wednesday at 1 pm at Senior Citizen Center, Thursday at 1 pm at Senior Citizen Center, Friday at 1 pm at Casper Elks Club.

For information or partnerships please call one of the following directors: Richard Howard 237-7349, Maxine Beyer 265-4427, Mary Hedges 234-8236, Mary Kay Moore 235-5542.

Republican women meet

{M3The{M3 Natrona County Republican Women will host its February meeting on Thursday, Feb. 24, 2005, 11:30 a.m., at the Casper Petroleum Club. The program will feature Scott Jones, community programs coordinator for the Casper Police Department. He will do a presentation on the impact of methamphetamine in our community. Please join us to learn about the Club's plans and activities. Reservations are requested to Sandy at 472-3723 or Cheryl at 234-4268. Cost of the luncheon is $10, guests are welcome.

Casper Snow Gypsies

Feb. 19-21: Club Ride at Meadowlark Hills;

March 3: General Club Meeting @ the Parkway Plaza @ 7 pm;

March 4-6: State Fun Days in Lander, Wy, March 4, 5 & 6, 2005;

March 12: De Nece Hill Memorial Ride for the Boys & Girls Club;

March 13: Poker Run @ Beartrap Meadow, reg. at 9 am in the parking lot.;

April 8: Spring Banquet/Elections @ The Attic (Above the Wonder Bar) cocktails at 6, buffet @ 7 pm.

More info E-mail debbietitle@hotmail.com.

Helping Others

What's Here? Your chance to volunteer for nonprofit and social service groups and outcomes of those efforts

ElderCare Advocates need volunteers

Would you be willing to join the "Lonely Hearts Club" of Concerned Citizens for Quality Nursing Home Care? We are looking for volunteers to give one hour a week or even one hour a month to residents in our nursing home and assisted living facilities in Natrona County.

There will be a certification training on Monday, March 7 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. If you are interested in volunteering and becoming a Sunshine Gal or Guy and want to learn more about the ways you can advocate for the highest standard of quality of life and a sense of well-being for the residents we serve, pleaes call the ECA office at 266-6659.

Virginia King -- 266-6659

Thrift shop holds clearance sale

The First United Methodist Thrift shop located at 221 W 1st St. has begun its annual winter clearance countdown sale. All merchandise is 1/2 price. The sale will continue through March 9 except Monday, Feb. 21 closure for President's Day. We will be closed March 10-19 for cleaning and restocking, reopening March 21 with spring inventory.

Donations are gratefully accepted. Hours are M,T,W and Sat 10-3:30.

All profits are given back to many local organizations -and all workers are volunteers.

Mary -- 234-6611

Tonkin helps WyCAN

The Wyoming Children's Access Network has been awarded $5,000 from the Tonkin Foundation of Casper to continue providing parent education program serving parents in Wyoming.

The funds will help the nonprofit agency to continue providing parent education classes and services to parents who are divorcing, separating or never married in Casper, Cheyenne, Cody, Gillette, Green River, Lander, Laramie, Rawlins, Sheridan and Torrington. The awarded funds will also be used to continue to expand the program into other Wyoming communities.

The Wyoming Children's Access Network offers parent education classes aimed specifically at binuclear families with the children's best interests in mind. The classes teach that both parents are important in their children's lives and that their children can benefit from the continual and consistent participation of both parents in their lives. WyCAN strives to provide parents with information to help them continue to provide support for their children emotionally, physically and financially.

For more information or to register for a class, contact WyCAN toll free at 866-726-3700 or at (307)674-5595.

{M3 SAB seeks blood donors

The Casper College Student Activities Board is holding a blood drive on Thursday, March 3 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

"Our goal is to have 55 folks come and donate blood on that day," says Barb Meryhew, student activities director.

The blood drive will take place in the Vista Lounge in the Strausner Student Center. United Blood Services will be on hand and ask all participants to drink plenty of water and eat well before their appointment.

Appointments need to be made ahead of time according to Meryhew, and can be done by calling her at 268-2249 or by going to the United Blood Services web site, www.unitedbloodservices.org.

Those using the web site are asked to enter "Casper C" as the sponsor code.

Library shelves need love

Readers, put those skills to work and help the library. We need people who love books to "adopt" some shelves and nurture order in the stacks. Learn to "read shelves," look for lost books and identify those in need of repair. You might even discover some new titles that pique your interest. For more information or to sign up, call 237-4935, ext. 129 and ask about volunteering for "adopt a shelf."

Food bank needs volunteers

Wyoming Food Bank of the Rockies distributes food to more than 100 hunger-relief agencies across the state, ranging from small faith-based food pantries to large organizations with national support.

Volunteers are the backbone of Wyoming Food Bank of the Rockies, assisting in all aspects of warehouse, administrative and special event operations. Our regular volunteer hours are Monday through Friday, 8 to 11 a.m., and 1 to 4 p.m. Volunteers need to come dressed in clothes appropriate for warehouse work. Volunteer jobs include preparing orders for shipment (including lifting up to 50 pounds), restacking of food products, sorting of food products, light cleaning and various clerical work.

Please call Patti at Wyoming Food Bank of the Rockies to schedule a time to volunteer, 265-2172.

Diane DeLozier -- 265-2172

Daffodils need volunteers

If you have been touched by cancer and want to make a difference locally, contact the American Cancer Society for information about how you can become a volunteer with Daffodil Days.

The American Cancer Society's Daffodil Days event helps raise funds to fight cancer through the sale of fresh bouquets of the bright yellow flowers each spring. Volunteers are needed to help sell, wrap and distribute the flowers in Casper. Training is provided and activities are underway now to prepare for the arrival of the daffodils from Washington State growers in March.

For more information, call Daffodil Days coordinator Jerre Jones at 234-8625 or area director Rita Miller at 577-4892.

Think ahead for Hospice training

Anyone interested in taking the fear out of death, the dying process or bereavement should attend our spring volunteer training. The trainings are scheduled Tuesday Mornings, March 8 through April 12 from 9:00 a.m. to noon.

There is no cost or obligation. Please call our office at 577-4832 and leave your name, address, and phone number. A letter detailing the training will be mailed to you. Class size is limited. For questions, ask for Deanne.

Want to help save lives?

Just think of all the cancer patients that will thank you for saving their lives through research. One special way to do this would be to volunteer on the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life committee. We are dedicated to helping find a cure for cancer and are looking for dedicated individuals to be a part of our team. We have a variety of positions open that would work just for you. For more information, please contact the ACS Office at

577-4892 or the Relay For Life Chair Patricia Hick at 577-53403. Thank you for helping find a cure!

Cabrini Resource Center opens

The St. Anthony's Social Justice Group sponsors an immigration resource center that addresses the needs, issues and concerns of immigrants, refugees, the undocumented, families in need of reunification and victims of trafficking and domestic violence.

Hours are Monday, 9 a.m. to noon, with additional hours on the first Monday of the month from 6 to 8 p.m.

The center is located at St. Anthony's Parish Center, 642 S. Wolcott St.

Advocacy and referral are available.

The resource center will be located in St. Anthony's Parish Center at 642 S. Wolcott St.

For more information, call Ellen at the Shepherd's Staff office, 266-2666.

Joan Anderson -- 472-3720

Resource center changes name

CareNet Pregnancy and Resource Center of Casper, formerly The Caring Center, A Pregnancy Resource; is taking appointments at 473-2273 for its services, now located at 1746 S. Poplar St. Hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday and 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., on Wednesday.

The center provides free pregnancy tests, education on abortion and alternatives to abortion, adoption and parenting support and post-abortion support. The Mommy and Me program is an incentive-based mentoring program for pregnant women up to age 21. Diapers are formula are available on an emergency-needs basis.

Terry Winship -- 473-2273

United Way sets application criteria

The United Way of Natrona County has announced the criteria and procedures for requesting funding for human development programs.

A letter of intent to apply for United Way funding should be sent to United Way executive director, P.O. Box 2046, Casper, Wyo., 82602. Letters of intent must be received at the United Way office by noon on Friday, March 11, 2005. An agency principal will be scheduled to appear before a United Way informal Screening and Advisory Committee on Friday, March 18, 2005, to address programs and needs.

To qualify for United Way funds, or to seek "special response grants," an agency must, at a minimum:

*Be not-for-profit and of a character so that contributions to it will qualify as charitable deductions under the IRS code and regulations;

*Be legally incorporated and have a governing body;

*Be providing human care services to residents of Natrona County;

*Present a budget on forms prescribed by the United Way;

*Present an independent audit of its books of account and financial affairs;

*Be non-denominational in nature, in the services and activities supported by the United Way.

For additional information, call Shanna Laible at the United Way office, 237-9367.

Seeking heritage speakers of German

I am a graduate student in the School of Education at the University of Wyoming and would appreciate your help.

For my graduate research project, I am trying to locate heritage speakers of German in three test areas: Wheatland, Casper and Star Valley. If you are a heritage speaker of German, please contact me before Feb. 28, 2005. I'll send you a brief questionnaire and then we can have a short phone conversation.

Knowing approximately how many heritage speakers there are in each community and how to find them will add to the general body of knowledge, which may help further research projects and language programs for many languages and cultures.

For this research, you would just need to complete the short questionnaire and participate in a brief phone interview with me.

Please contact me at (307) 265-3696 or {M7mhperry@trib.com.

Danke.

Margo H. Perry -- Casper

Nic needs volunteers

Ever feel like you are bowling alone? Studies show that people need to feel connected to a community more than ever before. Volunteering is a fun and exciting way to get connected and meet people who share your interests. Join the volunteer team at the Nicolaysen Art Museum. Learn about the arts, and give back to your community. It's fun! For more information, call Carmen at (307)-235-5247

Carmen Dolen -- Volunteer Coordinator

Help Yourself

What's Here? Support groups, 12-steps, self-help

Day center takes clients

Five Trails Adult Day Center is accepting new clients for its program. We are now at Life Steps Campus, 1514 E. 12th St., in building E. Our hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Our phone number is 234-1102. Please call if your loved one needs assistance during the day or if you need some respite.

People First in Casper

People First of Wyoming is for people with disabilities (Self-Advocates) learning that they have a voice to speak up in how they want to live their lives. People First believes that individuals with disabilities and their families should have access to a wide range of supports and services that allow them choices about how they live, work and play in their community! We belive that individuals with disabilities have many contributions to make to their families, employers and friends. People First will be having a training in Casper on Feb. 12-13, 2005. Anyone intersted is encouraged to call Stacy Hernandez @ 577-7369, or the Parent Information Center @ 472-4002

Stacy Hernandez -- 307-577-7369

PFLAG meets Feb. 27

PFLAG (Parents, Family, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) will hold their monthly meeting on Sunday, Feb. 27, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at United Church of Christ, 15th Street and Melrose. United Church of Christ is an open and affirming church. We invite all family, friends and allies to join us for a discussion of youth and homosexuality.

Ruth Ann Leonard -- 265-5449

Suicide hotline local

A national suicide hotline (1-800-suicide) is now being routed to the Wyoming Behavioral Institute in Casper. Previously, when this number was called, it was answered in Georgia. Now when someone calls and indicates that they are from Wyoming, the call will be routed to Casper. With this development, local referrals can then be made for people who call. Wyoming Behavioral Institute has trained staff on duty around the clock so this was a natural choice.

1-800-SUICIDE is part of the National Hopeline Network.

Sue McConaughey -- 234-2704

Service

What's Here? Rotary, Kiwanis, Lions, etc.

Kiwanis sets programs

Programs for February & March 2005:

February 17: Sue Hamilton, Walmart

February 24: Dave Simonson, Wyoming Machinery Company

March 3: Safe Kids Identification Program, Cheri Frinnel, Natrona County Sheriff Dept.

March 10: Dorothy Cronin, Brain Injury Association

March 17: "How to Destroy a Retirement Plan" by Connie Brezik

March 24: "Management of Health Care Costs" by Rick Fisher

March 31: Home Fire Safety, Steve Gasowski, Casper Fire Inspector

George Cannon, Kommunique

Pancakes March 5

51st annual Kiwanis Pancake Festival, Saturday, March 5, 2005, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Casper College Roberts Commons, (contact Bob Maxwell at 472-6629 or mpe@vcn.com.

Fraternal

What's Here? Elks, Eagles, Masons, Shrine, Eastern Star, etc.

February Elks

Today: Taco Bar 6 p.m., $5

Feb. 18: Steak Feed 6 p.m. $5

Feb. 19: State Hoop Shoot Competition, Casper College Administration Gymnasium 10 a.m.

Feb. 20: Daytona 500 Party 10 a.m. until the checkered flag waves, NASCAR Board, Door Prizes, Bring your favorite race food to share!!!

Feb. 22: Lodge Meeting 8 p.m. (2nd Nominations & Balloting for New Officers)

Feb. 23: Taco Bar 6 p.m., $5 ; DOES Meeting 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 26/27: Secretary/Leading Knight Seminar

Mar. 5: Father/Daughter Night, Doors open 6 p.m.; Dinner 6:30 p.m.; Dancing to GTO 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m., Tickets available at the Lodge soon.

Dianna Arndt -- arndt@trib.com

February Shrine

18: Consistory Club, Dinner at 6:30 p.m., meeting at 7:30 p.m.

19: Zilah Club Luncheon and Card Party.

25: T.G.I.F., Happy Hour starts 5:30, Dinner 6 p.m., $6 per person

27: Sunday Brunch, new times: 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Menu: Chicken fried steak, eggs to order, biscuits and gravy. Usual juices, coffee tea etc., $7 per person.

Lodge 15 calendar

Feb 23: Master Mason degree.

Mar 9: "Open Family Night." Non-Masons and families invited.

Mar 23: Lodge opening on Fellowcraft Degree.

Apr 13: "Rusty Nail" degree. If you haven't attended lodge for awhile this is the degree for you.

Apr 27: Past Master David Dewald will present a program on his profession of Operative Masonry.

May 11: Election of new officers.

May 25: Officer Step-up Night.

June 8: Installation of new officers.

Aug 7-9: Grand Lodge Annual Session in Casper. Grand Master: Gary Skillern, Capital Lodge No. 54, Cheyenne.

Casper Lodge No. 15 holds its meetings the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays at 7:30 PM at the Masonic Temple, 105 N. Center St. Visiting Master Masons are always welcomed.

For information call Secretary, Ken Wilson, 265-5696, email: KWilson684@aol.com.

Ken Wilson -- KWilson684@aol.com

Eagles Bingo

Jackpot bingo every Wednesday at 1 p.m.; regular session starts at 6:30 with early bird flimsy; regular session at 7 p.m. Snack bar open.

Kay -- 237-3291

Fund-raisers

What's Here? Groups raising money

Blue Envelope sponsors raffle

The Blue Envelope Health Fund is sponsoring a special fund-raiser with proceeds going to its patient assistance program for patients with special needs, such as travel expenses for treatment not available in Casper.

Tickets at $10 each or three for $25 are available at the Flower Gallery, Blue Heron bookstore and World Wide Travel.

Prizes include two round-trip tickets to any destination in the continental United States, compliments of World Wide Travel and United Airlines, along with $1,000 in cash; a signed limited edition print of Carol Swinney's painting of Casper Mountain, "Turn of the Season" and fresh flowers monthly for a year from the Flower Gallery.

Winners will be announced at the annual Blue Envelope Health Expo on April 16 at the Casper Events Center. For more information, call 577-4832.

Elaine Hough -- 265-7285

Legion ball raffles Mustang

The Casper American Legion Baseball Program is conducting a raffle to benefit Casper Legion Baseball. The program has secured a 2005 Ford Mustang GT for its raffle. Tickets will sell for $50 and only 3,000 tickets will be sold. The car will be given away at the end of summer. All proceeds will go directly to help update equipment for Legion Baseball. Tickets are available from any Legion Board Member or you can order online at Casperbaseball.com. The vehicle was made available through Greiner Ford of Casper and can be viewed at their showroom. Questions about this raffle or other Legion Baseball issues cn be directed to Todd Condelario, 237-1721 or Bonnie Foster, 265-1814.

Get awareness bracelets at mission

Join Central Wyoming Rescue Mission in the fight against hunger and homelessness in our community by buying and wearing an orange awareness bracelet. Bracelets are $3 each and available at Rescued Treasures Thrift Store, 330 N. Durbin, and the Mission, 230 N. Park.

Any company, youth group, school, church, club or organization may join the Mission by also selling the bracelets. For more information, call Risa Petrie at 268-4474.

Treasured Trays gala

Ahoy all ye mateys! Mark you calendars for Friday, March 11, at the Parkway Plaza and attend the Treasured Trays Gala, sponsored by the Meals On Wheels Foundation. The evening features 40 gorgeous wooden serving trays decorated by award winning area and national artists. There are trays done in oil, acrylics, quilts, stained glass, and much more. The 7 pm dinner will be followed by a silent auction, and a limited live auction. Major sponsors

are McMurry Foundation, Casper Star-Tribune, K2 Radio, and KCWY 13. Fun for all! For information and table reservations call Barb at Meals On Wheels 265-8659.

Wild Turkey tickets available

The National Wild Turkey Federation has started selling sponsor, underwriter and dinner tickets for its 14th annual Award Fund-raiser Banquet to be held March 12, 2005, at the Parkway Plaza.

In addition to an all-expense paid trip for two to Homer, Alaska for halibut fishing that will be a raffle prize, the Bighorn Chapter is now selling chances on a 15-gun raffle. More than $10,000 in high-quality guns will be given away.

Two major live auction items are a three-day dove hunt for two to Cordoba, Argentina and a two-day dove hunt to Las Mochis, Mexico, for year 2005 hunts.

We can only accommodate 500 at our banquet. Contact your NWTF representative or call Hugh Vogel, 235-4631 or Darwin Griese, 259-8338, for banquet and raffle tickets. We expect an early sellout of banquet tickets.

Hugh Vogel -- 235-4631

Governor's Tag Raffle

The Wyoming chapters of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) are raffling off a Governor's Tag for the 2005 hunting season. The holder of the tag may choose to hunt elk, deer or antelope in any open hunt area for the selected species in Wyoming.

Chances cost $20 each. Tickets may be purchased from any Wyoming RMEF member or at Bar-D Signs, 2425 E. Yellowstone Highway, during business hours Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. The drawing is April 23, 2005.

Civic Chorale sings Requiem for tsunami aid

The 70-voice Casper Civic Chorale will present "Requiem" by John Rutter at the First United Methodist Church at 7:30 p.m., on Tuesday, Feb. 22.

The concert will be a memorial tribute to the victims of the recent tsunami disaster in Southeast Asia. All money collected at the concert will go to the American Red Cross Tsunami Disaster fund, with the Civic Chorale absorbing 100 percent of the concert expenses.

Accompanying the Chorale is organist Donna McIntire, cellist Sue Salz, oboist Sandy Rolin, flutist Delores Thornton, Terry Gunderson playing timpani and xylophone and Eric Unruhing keyboarding the harp part.

Sopranos Deanna Dyer and Julie Elvestad will sing the "Pie Jesu" and "Lux Aeterna" solos, respectively. The texts of the seven portions are balanced between English and traditional Latin.

The 40-minute work by contemporary English composer John Rutter remains one of his most popular with American singers and audiences. According to Chorale director Wayne McIntire, Casper singers have been eager to repeat the work last sung in 1994.

"The music is simply gorgeous and it's the perfect work for this occasion. I know our audience will enjoy it."

Wayne McIntire -- 234-0372

Bowl for Jason's Friends

Organizers for the seventh annual "Bowl for Jason's Friends Foundation" urge participants to begin organizing their bowling teams for the fund-raiser on Saturday, March 5, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., at El Marko Lanes in Casper.

Teams are made up of five people who are encouraged to collect pledges prior to bowling. Free T-shirts will be awarded to each bowler gathering $50 or more in pledges, with special youth and adult prizes for the most pledges collected.

Each team will bowl for about one hour.

Team bowling packets are available at any First Interstate Bank location, any Hilltop Bank location, US Bank, El Marko Lanes or Jason's Friends at 111 S. Durbin.

Bowl for Jason's Friends will help families in the community and throughout Wyoming who have children with brain or spinal cord tumors or any other type of childhood cancer.

Jason's Friends is a volunteer, nonprofit corporation.

For more information, call Jason's Friends at 235-3421.

Lions host Casino Night

The Casper Mountain Lions Club is hosting its annual Casino Night on Saturday, March 5, at the Casper Petroleum Club from 6 p.m. to midnight. Tickets are available from any Casper Mountain Lions Club member or at the door.

Bryon -- 235-2020

Messerli raffle

A raffle for the Donna Messerli Double Lung Transplant Fund is underway. Tickets are $20 each or three for $50. The first prize is $5,000; the second prize is $1,000 and the third prize is a Black Hills Gold men's watch, donated by Landstrom's. The drawing will be held on March 17, 2005. You need not be present to win. For information, call Deb Farris at 234-6172.

API raffles cash, guns

The American Petroleum Institute (API), Central Wyoming Chapter, is raffling off a chance to win cash prizes of $10,000; $1,500; and five $500 prizes. Tickets are $20 each or 6 for $100. A maximum of 1,800 tickets will be sold.

Raffle tickets to win a Weatherby 257 Mag and a Benelli 12-guage shotgun are $1 each. These drawings will be held at the 13th Annual API Chili Cook-Off at the Casper Events Center on Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.

Admission to the cook-off is $5 with children 6 and under free. More than 40 kinds of chili will be prepared by teams representing oil and gas and service industries throughout the region.

Proceeds to benefit Cowboy State Games, Central Wyoming Hospice, Make-A-Wish Foundation of Wyoming, Boys & Girls Club of Central Wyoming, American Red Cross, Casper Humane Society and the API Scholarship Fund.

To purchase or inquire about tickets, call Jackie Martinez at 266-0312.

Fishing, turkey, raffle

The National Wild Turkey Federation is selling raffle tickets on a three-day, all-expense paid halibut fishing trip for two to Homer, Alaska. Tickets are $10 each or three for $20. The fishing trip will be awarded at the NWTF 14th annual Fund-raiser Banquet on March 12, 2005. The fishing trip will occur in early July 2005.

Tickets are available at Linton's Big R or by calling Hugh Vogel at (307) 235-4631 or Darwin Griese at (307) 259-8338.

Hubert Vogel -- 235-4631

WalkAmerica dates set

The annual March of Dimes WalkAmerica fund-raiser is set for numerous Wyoming cities this spring. Dates are April 9 in Cheyenne; April 30 in Casper, Cody, Lander, Sheridan, Wheatland and Worland; May 7 in Green River, Laramie, Rawlins and Riverton and May 14 in Evanston, Gillette, Jackson and Rock Springs.

For more information, call 266-6789 or sign up online at walkamerica.org.

Awards

What's Here? Recognition, honors, achievements

Nomination deadline nears

Nominations for the 10th annual Casper Woman of Distinction are due Feb. 18, 2005. The award is a joint effort of Girl Scouts, Soroptimist, Amerian Society of Women Accountants, American Association of University Women and Business and Professional Women/USA.

The use of third person is necessary in the decription of nominees' activities to keep the nominee's identity anonymous.

Nominees are scored on scope of achievements -- professional and volunteer; relevance of activities to program ideals; depth of commitment and how vocal and visible the nominee has been in her field or community.

For more information, call Laura Bemis at Girl Scout Council of Wyoming, 234-3505.

A luncheon to present the award will be held Wednesday, March 16.

Reunions

What's Here? Planning meetings and schedules for school, employee and family reunions

NC '35 reunion

Our class will hold its reunion June 24-26 at the Holiday Inn in Casper. Registration will be held Friday, June 24, and the class will have breakfast and dinner together on Saturday. On Sunday, class members will picnic at the home of Eleanor MacDonald. Members of the classes of 1934, 1935, and 1936 are invited to attend. For more information, phone Eleanor MacDonald, 307-237-8337.

{M3NC '80 seeks mates

Time to start planning…NCHS Class of 1980, 25-year reunion, July 29-30, 2005. Classmates who have not received information in the mail and are interested in further information, please contact Diane Carpenter at 307-234-7628. If no answer, please leave a message and Diane will return your call.

{M3Diane Carpenter -- 234-7628

KW '85 meets

Come help organize the 20-year reunion. Monday, Feb. 28th, 6 p.m., 451 W 18th. Call Melinda at 265-3011 for info or with classmate addresses.

KW '95 meets

The Kelly Walsh High School Class of 1995 reunion is set for August 12 & 13, 2005. An organizational meeting is set for Tuesday, Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. in the Kelly Walsh cafeteria. All 1995 KWHS graduates are welcome to attend. We are currently in the process of gathering contact information for all '95 graduates (current addresses, phone numbers and

email addresses). For more information or to report contact information, please call Ben Schanck at 307-259-4164 or email KWHS1995@yahoo.com.

Grown-up Stuff

What's Here? Fun stuff for grown-ups to do

Wyoming picnic in Yuma

The annual Wyoming Picnic will be held in Yuma, Ariz., on Thursday, Feb. 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Joe Henry Park in Yuma, Avenue B and 1st Street. Bring your own beverage. Cans only, no glass. Bring a covered dish or dessert, your own chairs and table service. Fried chicken, rolls and entertainment will be provided. Live music and door prizes. For more information, call Ron Baum at (928) 345-1750.

Adult winter reading starts

A new winter reading program, "Time for a Good Book," has begun at the Natrona County Public Library and is designed for any adult or teen who reads anything -- for pleasure, school or work. Modeled after the popular summer reading program, all you need to do is record the time you spend reading in a journal available at the library or online at www.library.natrona.net. Prizes for each completed level will be awarded and the grand prize drawing, a $50 gift certificate to the Eastridge Mall, will be awarded February 18. For more information, call 237-4935, ext. 125.

Still searching for Mrs. Casper

The Mrs. Wyoming America pageant is currently seeking MRS. CASPER to represent her community in this year's pageant on May 14, 2005 at the Cheyenne Civic Center. Applicants must be 18 years old, married and currently a resident of Wyoming. Interested applicants can contact the state director, Sheree Channel at 307-631-4447 or via their website, www.mrswyomingamerica.com. The winner of the Mrs. Wyoming America pageant will receive an incredible prize package valued at over $6000 including an all expense paid trip to the nationally televised Mrs. America pageant. The Mrs. America pageant is the only nationally televised competition to recognize the one person who contributes so much to modern family life -- America's married woman.

Schools

What's Here? Carnivals, barbecues, PTOs, bake sales, chances to learn

No school the 21st

Natrona County School District schools will be closed Monday, Feb. 21, not Monday, Feb. 14.

There apparently has been confusion in the community about this date. Classes will be dismissed for school improvement and professional development.

Midwest to WAC finals

The Midwest High School Wyoming Academic Challenge (WAC) team has qualified for the WAC finals to be held in April at Casper College.

According to team sponsor, Bill Ochs, the team competed twice in January and was able to qualify for state at the meet most recently held at Northwest Community College in Powell.

Team members who competed during the last two competitions are seniors Sammy Kler and Randy Moore, sophomores Ashley Meyer and Kris Steiner, and freshmen Misty Chapman and Angela Rohlfing.

With one competition remaining in the season, senior Sammy Kler is ranked 17th in state All-Star points. The top 18 All-Stars compete to be members of the Wyoming state team to the national Panasonic Academic Challenge held annually at Disney World in Florida. Panasonic awards over $30,000 in scholarships to winners and participants at the national competition.

No NCSD student has qualified for the All-Star competition since 1995.

Call Bill at (307) 437-6545 for more information.

History Day needs judges

The Natrona County History Day Contest will be held Saturday, April 2, in the Wold Physical Science Building at Casper College.

This year's theme is "Communication in History, Key to Understanding."

Judges are needed in a variety of different categories, including exhibits, historical papers, performances and documentaries.

First-time judges will be teamed with experienced judges. All judges will be given an orientation before the contest and a team of professionals will be on hand to answer questions throughout the judging. The time commitment for judges is from 7:30 a.m. to approximately 11 a.m., depending on the number of entrants in the category.

The awards ceremony will be at noon.

Be a part of giving students an opportunity to develop their skills in research and communication.

If interested, call Doris Lowe, at 265-7366 ext. 112 or email her at dorislowe45@hotmail.com

Kindergarten spots at Verda

Verda James School still has openings in their full day kindergarten class. Stop by the office or call us at 577-6727.

Orff concert March 12

To help celebrate March as "Music in our Schools" month, the 12 elementary music teachers NCSD will present the 15th annual All City Sixth Grade Orff Concert. The concert will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday, March 12, at KWHS.

The theme of the concert this year is "All American Music." Students will play pitched and unpitched. They have been working on the concert in their general music classes, and will come together for the first time from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. March 12.

The public is encouraged to attend. Admission is $1.

Call music teacher Cynthia Henrie at Paradise Valley (577-4584) or Westwood (577-6735) for more more information.

KW choir to Washington

The KWHS A Cappella Choir will give a 30-minute performance at the Music Educators National Conference on Friday, Feb. 18, in Bellevue, Wash. The KWHS group is the only band, orchestra or choir invited from Wyoming to perform. The conference is held in conjunction with the 39th Northwest Division Biennial In-Service Conference. Application for "All Northwest" included sending in an audition tape that had performances from each of the past

three years. The northwest division includes Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington and Wyoming. Call KWHS music teacher and choir director Marcia Patton at 577-4640 for

more information.

Fort Casper Academy celebrates first decade

Fort Casper Academy PTO seeks help from former alumni, parents and staff to help gather pictures and information from the last decade. The 10-year anniversary celebration will use any pictures and stories that help demonstrate the history and success of all involved. FCA's Decade in Excellence Celebration is scheduled for Friday, April 29, for all who wish to help celebrate. Please contact Connie Cain Stinson at 472-0547.

Students set Denver trip

All Casper College and University of Wyoming/Casper College Center students are invited to join a special trip to Denver Saturday and Sunday, April 23-24.

"This has become a very popular spring trip with our students," said Barb Meryhew, student activities director.

The cost for single students is $25 and $100 for families, which includes transportation, admissions fees, and lodging. "The only cost students will have is for their meals. This is quite a bargain," Meryhew said. Scheduled stops include the Denver Zoo on Saturday and

a Colorado Rockies game on Sunday afternoon.

The trip is limited to 110 participants, and space is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The two-day trip will begin on Saturday at 6 a.m. and conclude late Sunday night. "Students really enjoy these special trips, and continue to ask us to do them," noted Meryhew.

Registration forms are available at the front desk of the Casper College Center. The trip is sponsored by the Casper College Student Activities Board and the Casper College Intramural Office. For more information, contact Meryhew at 268-2249.

Kindergarten openings

Fort Caspar Academy still has openings for all day or half day kindergarten for the 2005-2006 school year. FCA excels with teacher centered instruction and high academic standards by using Accredited Spalding Phonics and Saxon Math Curriculum. Please bring the child's original birth certificate and current immunization records to register. For more information, call FCA at 577-4531 or stop by 2000 Casper Street.

Connie Cain Stinson -- PTO Chairman

St. Anthony begins registration

St. Anthony Tri-Parish School has begun registration for the 2005-2006 school year.

Openings are available for 3 & 4-year-old Preschool; Young 5-year-old PreKindergarten; 1/2 or full day Kindergarten; and Grades 1 through 9.

Please feel free to call the school office to arrange a tour. Bring your children to meet the teachers, visit classrooms, see the school, and explore our wonderful curriculum. We are a private, Catholic school, teaching important Christian values to children of all faiths. We welcome all children in the community.

For more information, please call Jane Smith at the school, 234-2873; or stop at the school office at 218 East 7th Street.

Rec Sports

What's Here? Things for your body to do

Spring soccer registration

The Casper Soccer Club is currently holding Spring registration for players 3-18 years old. Practices begin March 28 and Games will begin April 12. The fee for the Spring season is $45. Registration forms can be picked up at Bush-Wells Sporting Goods, The Athletes Foot in the Mall or by contacting the Casper Soccer Club office at 473-2617. Registration deadline is Feb. 26.

BMX wants sponsors

Mike Sedar BMX group is looking for sponsors to start up a scholarship progam for diadvantaged youth in Casper. We are a nonprofit group and are seeking sponsors for this program. Our Web site is {M7www.mikesedarbmx.com. We in BMX sports have no one sitting on the bench. Contact Mike Kientz, track director, at 237-2886.

Youth hoops tourney set

The City of Casper Recreation Division, in conjunction with the Community Recreation Foundation and the Casper Travel and Tourism Council, is hosting the 15th Annual Casper Youth Basketball Tournament March 19-20.

Teams interested in entering the Casper Tourney may register through Tuesday, March 1, 2005 as long as their requested division is not filled. The fee is $110 per team. Registrations are accepted at the Casper Recreation Center, 1801 East 4th Street, Casper, Wyoming, 82601 or on-line at www.eteamz.com/casper.

The tournament is open to boy's and girl's teams in grades 4 to 9. Divisions at each grade level for both boys and girls are offered. First, second and third place finishers, along with consolation round winners, will be awarded medals. Participation and special awards are also given.

The tournament is bracketed in a modified consolation format; therefore, all teams are guaranteed at least two games with most teams playing at least three or more games. Teams winning their first game but losing their second will be moved into a super consolation bracket.

If additional information is needed, contact Casper Recreation at (307) 235-8383.

Dodgeball Derby set

The Casper Family YMCA and Sidelines Sports Bar invite you and your friends to the 1st Annual Dodgeball Derby, Feb.25-26. The derby begins Friday at 6 pm and concludes Saturday at 7 pm. Play will consist of 6 vs 6 with Male and Coed Divisions available. Cost is $90/team with registration being limited to the first 48 teams. For more information, contact the Casper Family YMCA @ 234-9187. Dodgeball, it's more than just a movie at the Casper Family YMCA!

YMCA Baseball Skills Camp

It might be cold and snowy outside, but inside the YMCA is a perfect place to learn and enhance baseball skills! The Casper Family YMCA will be offering a Baseball Skills Camp March 4 through April 8 for all 3rd-8th graders. Participants may attend Friday sessions from 4-6 pm or Sunday sessions from 2-4 pm. Hitting, Pitching, Fielding, Throwing, Base-running and Sliding are just a few of the fundamentals that will be covered. Come visit the Casper Family YMCA, where you can experience the "fun" in fundamentals! Contact the YMCA @ 234-9187 for more information.

YMCA adult hoops leagues forming

The Casper Family YMCA is currently taking registrations for its adult Sunday night basketball league which will run from March 6 n April 24. Men's Competitive, Men's Recreation and Women's Divisions are available, but limited to the first 8 teams in each division. League Fees consist of a $5 player fee, which is waived for YMCA members, and a $150 team fee. Registration ends Feb. 28, 2005. For more information, contact the Casper Family YMCA @ 234-9187.

YMCA PeeWee programs in full swing

The Casper Family YMCA has a multitude of programs designed for 3 and 4 year-olds. PeeWee Sports Sampler is held Tuesdays from 12 PM n 1 PM and is designed to introduce the young ones to the wide world of sports. Gym & Swim is held on Thursday afternoons from 11 AM n Noon and provides participants with ½ hour of organized gym games followed by ½ of swimming. PeeWee Sports Seasons are held on Saturday mornings in conjunction with K-4th youth sport seasons. Parent participation is required for all PeeWee programs. For more information, contact the Casper Family YMCA @ 234-9187.

Celebrate at the Casper Family YMCA

Birthday, anniversary, graduation, retirement, promotion....there are many things in life to celebrate and we have just the facility. For your next party, the Casper Family YMCA's heated pool, spacious gym and energetic staff are at your disposal. Let us do the work, you have the fun!

Ransoms say thanks

Trey and Maria Ransom would like to publicly thank those individuals who helped us welcome our new addition, Gracelyn Alexandria Ransom. From the Wyoming Medical Center staff, to our families at the Casper Family YMCA, Lighthouse Christian Fellowship, and Wyoming Cavalry, thank you for your time and generosity. May God bless you and your family as you have blessed our family.

Trey, Maria & Lexie Ransom

Girls' sweet 16 hoops tourney

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming is offering a Sweet 16 post-season youth basketball tournament for girls in fifth and sixth grades. All players on a roster must be representatives of their respective elementary schools. Coaches may be the current school coach or a substitute parent/coach. Sign up early. The tournament is limited to the first 16 teams in each grade level. All games will be held at the Boys & Girls Club, 1701 E. K St. Cost is $50 per team, three-game guarantee for each team.

Registration deadline for 5th grade girls is Feb. 18. Tournament is Feb. 26-27.

Registration deadline for 6th grade girls is Feb. 26. Tournament is March 5-6.

The boys' post-season tournament is the first two weekends in April after their school season concludes.

For more information, call Derek DeBoer at 235-5694.

Drop-in gym resumes

The drop-in open gym program has resumed at area elementary schools and will continue through March 17.

Gyms are for drop-in use. Organized team practices are not allowed. Participants must bring clean non-marking shoes to wear while playing. Everyone must register and present their privilege card to participate.

Adult drop-in volleyball is playing 6:30 to 10 p.m. on Monday at Southridge and Thursday at Westwood.

Drop-in basketball is restricted to age. From 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., 4th through 6th graders are welcome. From 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., junior high students and from 8:30 to 10 p.m., high school students and adults.

Drop-in basketball is on Monday at Sagewood, Tuesday at Manor Heights and McKinley, Wednesday at Sagewood and Crest Hill and Thursday at McKinley.

For more information, call 235-8383.

Winter race series continues

The rest of the Casper Windy City Striders' Winter Series races will be: a 4-mile run on February 26, a 5-mile run on March 12, and a 10K on April 2. Check www.windycitystriders.com for further details. Participants in at least four of the five races will receive a special prize. All participants will receive a Smart ID tag.

The cost to register for the entire Winter Series is $30. The cost for each individual race is: Windy City Striders member, $8; nonmember, $10; students, $6.

Come early to renew your Windy City Striders membership, or to join if you're not yet a member!

Wendy Owens -- 265-8441,

knitnrun@hotmail.com